The Lantern on Blackwater Bridge
brainteaser
Four hikers reach a narrow bridge after dark. Their lantern is the only safe source of light, and everyone—including anyone returning—must carry it while crossing. The bridge can support no more than two hikers at once.
The hikers need 1, 2, 5, and 10 minutes respectively to cross. Whenever two travel together, they must move at the slower hiker’s speed. Every crossing or return uses the corresponding travel time, and all four hikers begin on the same side with the lantern.
What is the least total time in which everyone can reach the far side?
Hints
Hint 1
Hint 2
Hint 3
Solution
Commit an attempt to unseal the proof. Write your answer — right or wrong, thinking it through is the point.
What is the shortest possible total crossing time?
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