An horizon broading course on Computer science

[athrun200]

Homework Statement

This is really a horizon broading, even music students and histroy students can take this course.
So I think this HW problem is very simple, but it is too simple that I am afraid I will do it wrongly.

Homework Equations

My Dr. said we don't need to know the C++ or any other cmputer language to do this question and he tell us to searh what is the meaning of "trace" in order to do this question.

But I found it difficult to understand on the web(most of them contain computer language)

The Attempt at a Solution

My thought is that, substitute n=4 into the 3 statements, then it's done.
But it contain 10 marks! So I better ask it.

 

[NascentOxygen]

I would think you'd write a list--of each step as you execute it--until you can write "Finished!" Of course, you won't write the letter n each time, you'll write a numeral.

And if you are chasing marks, you might draw what the two towers look like after each move.

 

[athrun200]

I have submitted the first attempt to my teacher and I got the following feedbacks.

I would like to see more "steps" before your step (1),
i.e., moving 3 discs from A to B.

However, I can't think of any extra steps before step 1.
Can anyone help me?

 

[NascentOxygen]

I think you should find some coins of increasing diameter, mark 3 spots on the table as your towers, and work through this yourself. Don't be afraid to find practical ways to solve/simulate/investigate maths problems, often you'll discover where your "paper calculations" are going wrong, especially when you think YOU CAN'T POSSIBLE LEARN ANYTHING more by looking at practical methods.

After each and every move of a coin, sketch the 3 towers.

 

[DeeNos]

As a scientist, it is important to have a broad understanding of various fields and to continuously learn and expand our knowledge. It is encouraging to see a course that aims to broaden horizons and attract students from different backgrounds and interests, such as music and history. This not only promotes diversity in the field of computer science, but also allows for a more well-rounded and interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving.

Regarding the homework problem, it is understandable to feel unsure about completing it without prior knowledge of a specific computer language. However, your instructor has assured you that knowing a specific language is not necessary for this question. It is important to trust in their guidance and approach the problem with an open mind.

As for the meaning of "trace", it is a term commonly used in computer science to refer to the path or steps taken by a program or code to reach a certain outcome. It can also refer to the process of identifying and fixing errors in a program. Understanding this concept may be helpful in approaching the problem.

In terms of your proposed solution, it is always a good idea to double-check your work and seek clarification if needed. It is better to ask and ensure that you fully understand the question and have the correct solution, rather than making assumptions and potentially getting the question wrong.

In summary, as a scientist, it is important to approach problems with a critical and open mind, and to continuously seek knowledge and understanding in various fields. This will not only benefit us as individuals, but also contribute to the advancement of science as a whole.