TED-Ed: Can you solve the virus riddle? - Lisa Winer

In a lab scenario, a virus is accidentally released, and the challenge is to destroy it by activating self-destruct switches in a grid of rooms. The problem is related to the Hamiltonian path problem, which is complex and involves visiting each room exactly once. The solution involves using the entrance room as an exception to complete the task. The video concludes with a reflection on the experience.

What event triggers the protagonist to take action in the lab?

• A power surge

• A chemical spill

• A fire alarm

• A sudden earthquake

What is the main objective in the lab puzzle?

• To find a way to exit the lab safely

• To destroy the virus in every contaminated room

• To repair the broken sample vials

• To reset the security system

What mathematical problem is the lab puzzle related to?

• The P vs NP Problem

• The Four Color Theorem

• The Traveling Salesman Problem

• The Hamiltonian Path Problem

Why is a true Hamiltonian path not possible in the given grid?

• The grid has an odd number of rooms

• The grid is not connected

• The grid has an even number of rooms on each side

• The grid has too many rooms

What exception allows the protagonist to complete the task?

• The ability to deactivate the security system

• The ability to revisit any room

• The entrance room is not contaminated

• The ability to skip rooms

What is the significance of the entrance room in solving the puzzle?

• It is the only room with a backup generator

• It is the largest room in the grid

• It allows a return visit without pulling the switch

• It contains the main control panel

What is the final outcome after solving the puzzle?

• The protagonist becomes a traveling salesman

• The security system is reset

• The virus is contained and destroyed

• The lab is permanently closed