Shown in the figure is a solved puzzle with a unique solution (the red line) from an old newspaper. Over the course of time, a few printed lines from the puzzle have faded. Identify the original puzzle from the options.
Show Hint
For "find the original puzzle" problems with a given solution, the process is one of verification. Simply trace the solution on each of the options. The correct option is the one where the solution path never intersects with a barrier.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The problem asks us to find the original maze from which some walls have faded. We are given the correct and unique solution path (the red line). The original maze must be the one where the red path is a valid route (i.e., it never crosses a wall).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
We will test each option by superimposing the red solution path onto it and checking for any violations (path crossing a wall).
Option A: If we trace the red path on this maze, we find that in the middle-left section, the path goes straight through a wall that is present in this option. Therefore, A cannot be the original puzzle.
Option B: Tracing the red path on this maze shows that the path is clear from start to finish. It does not cross any of the black lines (walls). Furthermore, the walls present in this option effectively block off all other potential routes, making the red path a plausible unique solution.
Option C: In the outermost corridor, the red path makes a turn. In option C, there is a wall blocking this turn. Therefore, C cannot be the original puzzle.
Option D: Near the center of the maze, the red path goes through an opening. In option D, this opening is blocked by a wall. Therefore, D cannot be the original puzzle.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Option B is the only maze configuration where the given red solution path is valid and unobstructed.
