Visible grid points problem

In summary, the conversation discusses a difficult probability question about the chance of seeing a random grid point on an infinitely large square grid. The answer to this question is not affected by the distribution of the random integer, but there are different choices that could yield a different answer. The question is essentially asking for the probability that the line connecting a randomly assigned point with the origin does not intersect any grid points.
  • #1
h6ss
77
9
Here is a difficult probability question I found interesting and thought I'd share:

Suppose you are standing on an infinitely large square grid at the point (0,0), and suppose that you can see infinitely far but cannot see through grid points. Given a random grid point z = (x, y), where x and y are integers, what is the chance you can see z?

The rather elegant answer is:
[itex] Prob = \frac{6}{\pi^2} [/itex]

More information:
 

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  • #2
There is no uniform distribution over all integers. What does "random integer" mean?
The answer does not depend much on it, but there are choices that do give a different answer.

I think the problem is not as hard as the pdf describes it, as the steps taken in the first solution are not hard to find and the value of the product is well-known.
 
  • #3
What is the question actually asking? "What is the probability that the line connecting a randomly assigned point z (x,y) with the origin does not intersect any grid points"?
 

1. What is the visible grid points problem?

The visible grid points problem is a mathematical problem that involves finding the maximum number of points that can be seen on a grid from a given point. This problem is often used in computer graphics and game development to determine the optimal placement of objects or obstacles on a grid-based map.

2. How is the visible grid points problem solved?

The visible grid points problem is typically solved using various algorithms, such as the line-sweep algorithm or the sweep-and-prune algorithm. These algorithms involve systematically checking each grid point and determining if it is visible from the given point, and then keeping track of the maximum number of visible points.

3. What factors affect the solution to the visible grid points problem?

The solution to the visible grid points problem can be affected by several factors, including the size of the grid, the location of the given point, and any obstacles or restrictions on the grid. The algorithm used to solve the problem can also impact the solution.

4. Can the visible grid points problem be applied to real-world situations?

Yes, the visible grid points problem has real-world applications in fields such as urban planning, satellite imaging, and surveillance. It can also be used in video game design to create realistic and efficient virtual environments.

5. Are there any practical uses for the visible grid points problem?

Aside from its applications in various industries, the visible grid points problem can also be used as a problem-solving exercise to develop critical thinking and algorithmic skills. It can also be used to demonstrate the concept of optimization and the importance of efficient solutions.

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