The water jar problem (Luchins, 1942)

(Start with problem #1 and see if you can solve all 9)

How would you use 3 jars with the indicated capacities to measure out the desired amount of water?

Problem #

Jar A

Jar B

Jar C

Desired Quarts of water

1

29

3

.

20

2

21

127

3

100

3

14

163

25

99

4

18

43

10

5

5

9

42

6

21

6

20

59

4

31

7

23

49

3

20

8

15

39

3

18

9

28

76

3

25

Were you able to solve all 9? See the discussion below once you have given it a try.

  • Set can prevent you from choosing a good solution strategy