# Explain/solve the Matching Problem in the simplest terms

1. Aug 24, 2009

### redphoton

Explain/solve the "Matching Problem" in the simplest terms

How would you explain and solve the "Matching Problem" to a HS math club? give the simplest explanation and solution you know.

Last edited: Aug 24, 2009
2. Aug 24, 2009

### Dragonfall

Re: Explain/solve the "Matching Problem" in the simplest terms

You mean the stable matching problem, from graph theory?

3. Aug 24, 2009

### redphoton

Re: Explain/solve the "Matching Problem" in the simplest terms

matching problem like the classic: "An absent-minded secretary prepares n letters and envelopes to send to n different people, but then randomly stuffs the letters into the envelopes. A match occurs if a letter is inserted in the proper envelope. Find the probability a match happens."

Last edited: Aug 24, 2009
4. Aug 24, 2009

### mXSCNT

Re: Explain/solve the "Matching Problem" in the simplest terms

There are many different problems involving matching one set against another.

5. Aug 25, 2009

### Dragonfall

Re: Explain/solve the "Matching Problem" in the simplest terms

If P is the probability that a match DOESN'T happen, then 1-P is the probability that a match happens. Is this what you want?