problem
stringlengths
19
1.93k
level
stringclasses
5 values
solution
stringlengths
53
4.47k
type
stringclasses
4 values
In an increasing sequence of four positive integers, the first three terms form an arithmetic progression, the last three terms form a geometric progression, and the first and fourth terms differ by $30.$ Find the sum of the four terms.
Level 3
Denote the first three terms by $a,$ $a+d,$ and $a+2d,$ where $a$ and $d$ are positive integers; then the fourth term is $a+30.$ Since the last three terms form an arithmetic sequence, we have \[(a+d)(a+30) = (a+2d)^2,\]or \[a^2 + (30+d) a + 30d = a^2 + 4ad + 4d^2.\]Solving for $a,$ we get \[a = \frac{4d^2-30d}{30-3d} = \frac{2d(2d-15)}{3(10-d)}.\]Since $a$ is positive, we must have $f(d) = \frac{d(2d-15)}{10-d} > 0.$ We construct a sign table for this expression: \begin{tabular}{c|ccc|c} &$d$ &$2d-15$ &$-d+10$ &$f(d)$ \\ \hline$d<0$ &$-$&$-$&$+$&$+$\\ [.1cm]$0<d<\frac{15}{2}$ &$+$&$-$&$+$&$-$\\ [.1cm]$\frac{15}{2}<d<10$ &$+$&$+$&$+$&$+$\\ [.1cm]$d>10$ &$+$&$+$&$-$&$-$\\ [.1cm]\end{tabular}Since $d > 0,$ we must have $\tfrac{15}{2} < d < 10,$ which only gives two possible integer values for $d,$ namely $8$ and $9.$ For $d=8,$ we get \[a = \frac{2 \cdot 8 \cdot 1}{3 \cdot 2} = \frac{8}{3},\]which is not an integer, so we must have $d=9$ and \[a = \frac{2 \cdot 9 \cdot 3}{3 \cdot 1} = 18.\]Then the sum of the four terms is \[a + (a+d) + (a+2d) + (a+30) = 18 + 27 + 36 + 48 = \boxed{129}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Find the number of integers $n$ such that \[1+\left\lfloor\dfrac{100n}{101}\right\rfloor=\left\lceil\dfrac{99n}{100}\right\rceil.\]
Level 5
Let \[f(n) = \left\lceil \frac{99n}{100} \right\rceil - \left\lfloor \frac{100n}{101} \right\rfloor.\]Note that \begin{align*} f(n + 10100) &= \left\lceil \frac{99 (n + 10100)}{100} \right\rceil - \left\lfloor \frac{100 (n + 10100)}{101} \right\rfloor \\ &= \left\lceil \frac{99n}{100} + 101 \right\rceil - \left\lfloor \frac{100n}{101} + 100 \right\rfloor \\ &= \left\lceil \frac{99n}{100} \right\rceil + 101 - \left\lfloor \frac{100n}{101} \right\rfloor - 100 \\ &= \left\lceil \frac{99n}{100} \right\rceil - \left\lfloor \frac{100n}{101} \right\rfloor + 1 \\ &= f(n) + 1. \end{align*}This implies that for each residue class $r$ modulo 10100, there is a unique integer $n$ such that $f(n) = 1$ and $n \equiv r \pmod{10100}.$ Thus, the answer is $\boxed{10100}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Evaluate the polynomial \[ x^3 - 2 x^2 - 8 x + 4, \]where $x$ is the positive number such that $x^2 - 2x - 8 = 0$.
Level 2
We note that \[ x^3 - 2x^2 - 8x + 4 = (x^2 - 2x - 8) \cdot x + 4 = 0 \cdot x + 4, \]since $x^2 - 2x - 8 = 0$. Now, $0 \cdot x + 4= \boxed{4}$, so this is our answer. We could also solve for $x$ from the information given. The expression $x^2 - 2x - 8$ factors as $(x + 2)(x-4)$. Thus $x$ must be equal to 4 or $-2$. Since $x$ is positive, $x$ must equal 4. Thus our expression is equal to \[ 4^3 - 2 \cdot 4^2 - 8 \cdot 4 + 4 . \]We can factor out a 4 to find that this is \[ 4( 4^2 - 2 \cdot 4 - 8 + 1) = 4( 16 - 8 - 8 +1) = 4 \cdot 1 = 4, \]as before. (Alternatively, since the problem statement implies that there is only one positive value of $x$ such that $x^2 - 2x - 8 = 0$, we could find the value 4 by trial and error, and then simplify as above.)
Intermediate Algebra
Multiply $(2x^3-5y^2)(4x^6+10x^3y^2+25y^4)$.
Level 2
The given product can be rewritten in the form $(a-b)(a^2+ab+b^2)$, which is the factorization of $a^3-b^3$ for $a=2x^3$ and $b=5y^2$. Therefore, the expression can be rewritten as $a^3-b^3=(2x^3)^3-(5y^2)^3=\boxed{8x^9-125y^6}$.
Intermediate Algebra
Compute $a^2 + b^2 + c^2,$ given that $a,$ $b,$ and $c$ are the roots of \[2x^3 - x^2 + 4x + 10 = 0.\]
Level 3
By Vieta's formulas, we know that \[\begin{aligned} a+b+c &= \frac12, \\ ab+bc+ca &= \frac42 = 2, \\ abc &= -\frac{10}2 = -5. \end{aligned}\]We square both sides of $a+b+c=\frac12,$ which will produce the terms $a^2+b^2+c^2$: \[(a+b+c)^2 = a^2+b^2+c^2+2ab+2bc+2ca = \frac14.\]Substituting $ab+bc+ca=2,$ we have \[a^2+b^2+c^2+2(2)=\frac14,\]so \[a^2+b^2+c^2=\frac14-4=\boxed{-\frac{15}4}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Let \[f(a,b) = \left\{ \renewcommand{\arraystretch}{3} \begin{array}{cl} \dfrac{ab - a + 2}{2a} & \text{if $a + b \le 3$}, \\ \dfrac{ab - b - 2}{-2b} & \text{if $a + b > 3$}. \end{array} \renewcommand{\arraystretch}{1} \right.\]Find $f(2,1) + f(2,4).$
Level 2
We have that \[f(2,1) = \frac{2 \cdot 1 - 2 + 2}{4} = \frac{1}{2},\]and \[f(2,4) = \frac{2 \cdot 4 - 4 - 2}{-8} = -\frac{1}{4},\]so $f(2,1) + f(4,2) = \boxed{\frac{1}{4}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $P$ be the parabola with equation $y=x^2$ and let $Q = (20, 14)$. There are real numbers $r$ and $s$ such that the line through $Q$ with slope $m$ does not intersect $P$ if and only if $r < m < s.$ What is $r + s$?
Level 4
The equation of the line passing through $Q = (20,14)$ with slope $m$ is $y - 14 = m(x - 20).$ Thus, we seek the values of $m$ for which the system \begin{align*} y - 14 &= m(x - 20), \\ y &= x^2 \end{align*}has no real solutions. Substituting $y = x^2$ into the first equation, we get \[x^2 - 14 = m(x - 20).\]Then $x^2 - mx + (20m - 14) = 0.$ This equation has no real solutions when the discriminant is negative: \[m^2 - 4(20m - 14) < 0.\]Then $m^2 - 80m + 56 < 0.$ Thus, $r$ and $s$ are the roots of $m^2 - 80m + 56 = 0.$ By Vieta's formulas, $r + s = \boxed{80}.$
Intermediate Algebra
An ellipse has foci at $(0, 2)$ and $(3, 0)$. It has two $x$-intercepts, one of which is the origin. What is the other one? Enter your answer as an ordered pair.
Level 5
The sum of the distances from $(0,0)$ to the two foci is $ 2 + 3 = 5.$ By the definition of an ellipse, the sum of the distances from any point on the ellipse to the two foci must also be $5.$ So, in particular, if $(x, 0)$ is the other $x$-intercept, the distance formula gives \[|x-3| + \sqrt{x^2+4} = 5.\]Drawing out the ellipse, we see that $x>3,$ so we can drop the absolute values around $x-3.$ Then, solving for $x$, we have \[\begin{aligned} \sqrt{x^2+4} &= 8-x \\ x^2+4 &= x^2-16x+64 \\ 16x &= 60, \end{aligned}\]so $x = \tfrac{60}{16} = \tfrac{15}{4}.$ Thus the answer is $\boxed{\left(\tfrac{15}{4},0\right)}.$
Intermediate Algebra
If $|x| + x + y = 10$ and $x + |y| - y = 12,$ find $x + y.$
Level 3
If $x < 0,$ then $|x| = -x,$ so from the first equation, $y = 10.$ But then the second equation gives us $x = 12,$ contradiction, so $x \ge 0,$ which means $|x| = x.$ If $y > 0,$ then $|y| = y,$ so from the second equation, $x = 12.$ But the the first equation gives us $y = -14,$ contradiction, so $y \le 0,$ which means $|y| = -y.$ Thus, the given equations become $2x + y = 10$ and $x - 2y = 12.$ Solving, we find $x = \frac{32}{5}$ and $y = -\frac{14}{5},$ so $x + y = \boxed{\frac{18}{5}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find the remainder when the polynomial $x^{1000}$ is divided by the polynomial $(x^2 + 1)(x + 1).$
Level 3
Note that $(x^2 + 1)(x + 1)$ is a factor of $(x^2 + 1)(x + 1)(x - 1) = x^4 - 1.$ Since \[x^{1000} - 1 = (x^4 - 1)(x^{996} + x^{992} + x^{988} + \dots + x^8 + x^4 + 1),\]the remainder when $x^{1000}$ is divided by $(x^2 + 1)(x + 1)$ is $\boxed{1}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find the largest prime divisor of $25^2+72^2$.
Level 5
$25^2+72^2=5^4+4\cdot 6^4$, and we can use the Sophie Germain Identity on that to get \[25^2+72^2=(5^2+2\cdot 6^2+2\cdot 5\cdot 6)(5^2+2\cdot 6^2-2\cdot 5\cdot 6)=157\cdot 37.\] $\boxed{157}$ is the largest prime factor.
Intermediate Algebra
Determine the exact value of the series \[\frac{1}{5 + 1} + \frac{2}{5^2 + 1} + \frac{4}{5^4 + 1} + \frac{8}{5^8 + 1} + \frac{16}{5^{16} + 1} + \dotsb.\]
Level 4
We hope this sum telescopes. We really hope this sum telescopes. One thing to think about is what happens when we add up the first few terms. (The sum of the first few terms of an infinite series is called a partial sum.) For example, when we add the first three terms of the series, we obtain a fraction whose denominator is \[(5 + 1)(5^2 + 1)(5^4 + 1).\]We can make this product nicely collapse by multiplying it by $5 - 1$: \begin{align*} (5 - 1)(5 + 1)(5^2 + 1)(5^4 + 1) &= (5^2 - 1)(5^2 + 1)(5^4 + 1) \\ &= (5^4 - 1)(5^4 + 1) \\ &= 5^8 - 1. \end{align*}More generally, if we add the first $n$ terms of the series, we can obtain a fraction with denominator $5^{2^n} - 1.$ The next term in the series has a denominator of $5^{2^n} + 1.$ Since we want the sum to telescope, we can consider the difference \[\frac{1}{5^{2^n} + 1} - \frac{1}{5^{2^n} - 1} = \frac{2}{5^{2^{n + 1}} - 1}.\]Multiplying both sides by $2^n,$ we get \[\frac{2^n}{5^{2^n} + 1} - \frac{2^n}{5^{2^n} - 1} = \frac{2^{n + 1}}{5^{2^{n + 1}} - 1}.\]Thus, \[\frac{2^n}{5^{2^n} + 1} = \frac{2^n}{5^{2^n} - 1} - \frac{2^{n + 1}}{5^{2^{n + 1}} - 1}.\]The given series then telescopes as follows: \begin{align*} \frac{1}{5 + 1} + \frac{2}{5^2 + 1} + \frac{4}{5^4 + 1} + \dotsb &= \left( \frac{1}{5 - 1} - \frac{2}{5^2 - 1} \right) + \left( \frac{2}{5^2 - 1} - \frac{4}{5^4 - 1} \right) + \left( \frac{4}{5^4 - 1} - \frac{8}{5^8 - 1} \right) + \dotsb \\ &= \boxed{\frac{1}{4}}. \end{align*}
Intermediate Algebra
An ellipse has foci at $(0, 2)$ and $(3, 0)$. It has two $x$-intercepts, one of which is the origin. What is the other one? Enter your answer as an ordered pair.
Level 5
The sum of the distances from $(0,0)$ to the two foci is $ 2 + 3 = 5.$ By the definition of an ellipse, the sum of the distances from any point on the ellipse to the two foci must also be $5.$ So, in particular, if $(x, 0)$ is the other $x$-intercept, the distance formula gives \[|x-3| + \sqrt{x^2+4} = 5.\]Drawing out the ellipse, we see that $x>3,$ so we can drop the absolute values around $x-3.$ Then, solving for $x$, we have \[\begin{aligned} \sqrt{x^2+4} &= 8-x \\ x^2+4 &= x^2-16x+64 \\ 16x &= 60, \end{aligned}\]so $x = \tfrac{60}{16} = \tfrac{15}{4}.$ Thus the answer is $\boxed{\left(\tfrac{15}{4},0\right)}.$
Intermediate Algebra
If $f(3)=1$ and $f(2x)=2f(x)$ for all $x$, find $f^{-1}(64)$.
Level 5
We are looking for some $x$ such that $f(x)=64$. We notice that by doubling $x$ we can double $f(x)$ as well and also that $f(3)=1$. Applying $f(2x)=2f(x)$ repeatedly, we have: \begin{align*} f(3)&=1,\\ f(6)&=2,\\ f(12)&=4,\\ f(24)&=8,\\ f(48)&=16,\\ f(96)&=32,\\ f(192)&=64. \end{align*}So $f^{-1}(64)=\boxed{192}$.
Algebra
Suppose that the number $a$ satisfies the equation $4 = a + a^{ - 1}.$ What is the value of $a^{4} + a^{ - 4}?$
Level 2
Squaring the equation $4 = a+a^{-1},$ we get \[16 = \left(a+a^{-1}\right)^2 = a^2 + 2a a^{-1} + a^{-2} = a^2 + 2 + a^{-2},\]so $14 = a^2 + a^{-2}.$ To get the desired expression, we square again, giving \[196 = a^4 + 2a^2 a^{-2} + a^{-4} = a^4 + 2 + a^{-4}.\]Thus, $\boxed{194} = a^4 + a^{-4}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a,$ $b,$ and $c$ be nonnegative real numbers such that $a^2 + b^2 + c^2 = 1.$ Find the maximum value of \[2ab \sqrt{2} + 2bc.\]
Level 5
Our strategy is to take $a^2 + b^2 + c^2$ and divide into several expression, apply AM-GM to each expression, and come up with a multiple of $2ab \sqrt{2} + 2bc.$ Since we want terms of $ab$ and $bc$ after applying AM-GM, we divide $a^2 + b^2 + c^2$ into \[(a^2 + kb^2) + [(1 - k)b^2 + c^2].\]By AM-GM, \begin{align*} a^2 + kb^2 &\ge 2 \sqrt{(a^2)(kb^2)} = 2ab \sqrt{k}, \\ (1 - k)b^2 + c^2 &\ge 2 \sqrt{((1 - k)b^2)(c^2)} = 2bc \sqrt{1 - k}. \end{align*}To get a multiple of $2ab \sqrt{2} + 2bc,$ we want $k$ so that \[\frac{2 \sqrt{k}}{2 \sqrt{2}} = \frac{2 \sqrt{1 - k}}{2}.\]Then \[\frac{\sqrt{k}}{\sqrt{2}} = \sqrt{1 - k}.\]Squaring both sides, we get \[\frac{k}{2} = 1 - k.\]Solving for $k,$ we find $k = \frac{2}{3}.$ Thus, \begin{align*} a^2 + \frac{2}{3} b^2 &\ge 2ab \sqrt{\frac{2}{3}}, \\ \frac{1}{3} b^2 + c^2 &\ge 2bc \sqrt{\frac{1}{3}}, \end{align*}so \[1 = a^2 + b^2 + c^2 \ge 2ab \sqrt{\frac{2}{3}} + 2bc \sqrt{\frac{1}{3}}.\]Multiplying by $\sqrt{3},$ we get \[2ab \sqrt{3} + 2bc \le \sqrt{3}.\]Equality occurs when $a = b \sqrt{\frac{2}{3}}$ and $b \sqrt{\frac{1}{3}} = c.$ Using the condition $a^2 + b^2 + c^2 = 1,$ we can solve to get $a = \sqrt{\frac{2}{6}},$ $b = \sqrt{\frac{3}{6}},$ and $c = \sqrt{\frac{1}{6}}.$ Therefore, the maximum value is $\boxed{\sqrt{3}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Given a sequence $a_1,$ $a_2,$ $a_3,$ $\dots,$ let $S_n$ denote the sum of the first $n$ terms of the sequence. If $a_1 = 1$ and \[a_n = \frac{2S_n^2}{2S_n - 1}\]for all $n \ge 2,$ then find $a_{100}.$
Level 5
By definition of $S_n,$ we can write $a_n = S_n - S_{n - 1}.$ Then \[S_n - S_{n - 1} = \frac{2S_n^2}{2S_n - 1},\]so $(2S_n - 1)(S_n - S_{n - 1}) = 2S_n^2.$ This simplifies to \[S_{n - 1} = 2S_{n - 1} S_n + S_n.\]If $S_n = 0,$ then $S_{n - 1} = 0.$ This tells us that if $S_n = 0,$ then all previous sums must be equal to 0 as well. Since $S_1 = 1,$ we conclude that all the $S_n$ are nonzero. Thus, we can divide both sides by $S_{n - 1} S_n,$ to get \[\frac{1}{S_n} = \frac{1}{S_{n - 1}} + 2.\]Since $\frac{1}{S_1} = 1,$ it follows that $\frac{1}{S_2} = 3,$ $\frac{1}{S_3} = 5,$ and so on. In general, \[\frac{1}{S_n} = 2n - 1,\]so $S_n = \frac{1}{2n - 1}.$ Therefore, \[a_{100} = S_{100} - S_{99} = \frac{1}{199} - \frac{1}{197} = \boxed{-\frac{2}{39203}}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Let $f(x)=ax^2+bx+c$, where $a$, $b$, and $c$ are integers. Suppose that $f(1)=0$, $50<f(7)<60$, $70<f(8)<80$, $5000k<f(100)<5000(k+1)$ for some integer $k$. What is $k$?
Level 4
From $f(1) = 0,$ $a + b + c = 0,$ so $c = -a - b.$ Then \[f(7) = 49a + 7b + c = 48a + 6b = 6(8a + b),\]so from $50 < f(7) < 60,$ \[50 < 6(8a + b) < 60.\]The only multiple of 6 in this range is 54, leading to $8a + b = 9.$ Also, \[f(8) = 64a + 8b + c = 63a + 7b = 7(9a + b),\]so from $70 < f(8) < 80,$ \[70 < 7(9a + b) < 80.\]The only multiple of 7 in this range is 77, leading to $9a + b = 11.$ Then $a = 2,$ $b = -7,$ and $c = 5.$ Hence, $f(100) = 2 \cdot 100^2 - 7 \cdot 100 + 5 = 19305,$ so $k = \boxed{3}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a_1,$ $a_2,$ $\dots,$ $a_{12}$ be positive real numbers such that $a_1 + a_2 + \dots + a_{12} = 1.$ Find the minimum value of \[\frac{1}{a_1} + \frac{1}{a_2} + \dots + \frac{1}{a_{12}}.\]
Level 3
By Cauchy-Schwarz, \[(a_1 + a_2 + \dots + a_{12}) \left( \frac{1}{a_1} + \frac{1}{a_2} + \dots + \frac{1}{a_{12}} \right) \ge (1 + 1 + \dots + 1)^2 = 12^2 = 144,\]so \[\frac{1}{a_1} + \frac{1}{a_2} + \dots + \frac{1}{a_{12}} \ge 144.\]Equality occurs when $a_i = \frac{1}{12}$ for all $i,$ so the minimum value is $\boxed{144}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The coefficients of the polynomial \[x^4 + bx^3 + cx^2 + dx + e = 0\]are all integers. Let $n$ be the exact number of integer roots of the polynomial, counting multiplicity. For example, the polynomial $(x + 3)^2 (x^2 + 4x + 11) = 0$ has two integer roots counting multiplicity, because the root $-3$ is counted twice. Enter all possible values of $n,$ separated by commas.
Level 5
The polynomial $x^4 + 1 = 0$ shows that $n$ can be 0 The polynomial $x(x^3 + 2)$ shows that $n$ can be 1. The polynomial $x^2 (x^2 + 1)$ shows that $n$ can be 2. The polynomial $x^4$ shows that $n$ can be 4. Suppose the polynomial has three integer roots. By Vieta's formulas, the sum of the roots is $-b,$ which is an integer. Therefore, the fourth root is also an integer, so it is impossible to have exactly three integer roots. Thus, the possible values of $n$ are $\boxed{0, 1, 2, 4}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find the sum of all real values of $x$ that satisfy \[x = 1 - x + x^2 - x^3 + x^4 - x^5 + \dotsb.\]
Level 5
From the formula for an infinite geometric series, \[1 - x + x^2 - x^3 + \dotsb = \frac{1}{1 + x}.\]Thus, we want to solve \[x = \frac{1}{1 + x}.\]This simplifies to $x^2 + x - 1 = 0.$ By the quadratic formula, \[x = \frac{-1 \pm \sqrt{5}}{2}.\]The infinite geometric series \[1 - x + x^2 - x^3 + \dotsb\]converges only for $|x| < 1,$ so the only solution in $x$ is $\boxed{\frac{-1 + \sqrt{5}}{2}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find all values of $x > 4$ which satisfy \[\sqrt{x - 4 \sqrt{x - 4}} + 2 = \sqrt{x + 4 \sqrt{x - 4}} - 2.\]
Level 5
From the given equation, \[\sqrt{x + 4 \sqrt{x - 4}} - \sqrt{x - 4 \sqrt{x - 4}} = 4.\]Squaring both sides, we get \[x + 4 \sqrt{x - 4} - 2 \sqrt{x + 4 \sqrt{x - 4}} \sqrt{x - 4 \sqrt{x - 4}} + x - 4 \sqrt{x - 4} = 16.\]Hence, \begin{align*} 2x - 16 &= 2 \sqrt{(x + 4 \sqrt{x - 4})(x - 4 \sqrt{x - 4})} \\ &= 2 \sqrt{x^2 - 16(x - 4)} \\ &= 2 \sqrt{x^2 - 16x + 64} \\ &= 2 \sqrt{(x - 8)^2}. \end{align*}Equivalently, $x - 8 = \sqrt{(x - 8)^2}.$ This holds if and only if $x \ge 8.$ All our steps are reversible, so the solution is $x \in \boxed{[8,\infty)}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The graph of \[\sqrt{(x-1)^2+(y+2)^2} - \sqrt{(x-5)^2+(y+2)^2} = 3\]consists of one branch of a hyperbola. Compute the positive value for the slope of an asymptote of the hyperbola.
Level 5
The given equation does not resemble the standard form for a hyperbola, so instead, we appeal to the geometric definition of a hyperbola. Notice that the first term on the left-hand side gives the distance between the points $P = (x, y)$ and $A = (1, -2)$ in the coordinate plane. Similarly, the second term on the left-hand side gives the distance between the points $P$ and $B=(5,-2).$ Therefore, the graph of the given equation consists of all points $P=(x,y)$ such that \[PA - PB = 3.\]Thus, by the definition of a hyperbola, the given graph consists of one branch of a hyperbola with foci $A$ and $B.$ The distance between the foci is $AB = 4,$ so the distance between each focus and the center is $c = \frac12 \cdot 4 = 2.$ Furthermore, if $a$ is the distance between each vertex and the center of the hyperbola, then we know that $2a = 3$ (since the general form of a hyperbola is $PF_1 - PF_2 = 2a$), so $a = \frac32.$ Then we have \[b = \sqrt{c^2-a^2} = \frac{\sqrt7}{2}.\]The foci $A$ and $B$ lie along a horizontal axis, so the slopes of the asymptotes are $\pm \frac{b}{a} = \pm \frac{\sqrt7}{3}.$ The answer is $\boxed{\frac{\sqrt7}{3}}.$[asy] void axes(real x0, real x1, real y0, real y1) { draw((x0,0)--(x1,0),EndArrow); draw((0,y0)--(0,y1),EndArrow); label("$x$",(x1,0),E); label("$y$",(0,y1),N); for (int i=floor(x0)+1; i<x1; ++i) draw((i,.1)--(i,-.1)); for (int i=floor(y0)+1; i<y1; ++i) draw((.1,i)--(-.1,i)); } path[] yh(real a, real b, real h, real k, real x0, real x1, bool upper=true, bool lower=true, pen color=black) { real f(real x) { return k + a / b * sqrt(b^2 + (x-h)^2); } real g(real x) { return k - a / b * sqrt(b^2 + (x-h)^2); } if (upper) { draw(graph(f, x0, x1),color, Arrows); } if (lower) { draw(graph(g, x0, x1),color, Arrows); } path [] arr = {graph(f, x0, x1), graph(g, x0, x1)}; return arr; } void xh(real a, real b, real h, real k, real y0, real y1, bool right=true, bool left=true, pen color=black) { path [] arr = yh(a, b, k, h, y0, y1, false, false); if (right) draw(reflect((0,0),(1,1))*arr[0],color, Arrows); if (left) draw(reflect((0,0),(1,1))*arr[1],color, Arrows); } void e(real a, real b, real h, real k) { draw(shift((h,k))*scale(a,b)*unitcircle); } size(8cm); axes(-2,8,-7,3); xh(3/2,sqrt(7)/2,3,-2,-5.8,1.8); dot((1,-2)^^(5,-2)); real f(real x) { return -2 + sqrt(7)/3*(x-3); } draw(graph(f, -1.4, 7.4),dotted); real g(real x) { return -2 - sqrt(7)/3*(x-3); } draw(graph(g, -1.4, 7.4),dotted); [/asy]
Intermediate Algebra
Find all real numbers $x$ such that \[3 \le \frac{x}{2x-5} < 8.\](Give your answer in interval notation.)
Level 4
We work on the two parts of the given inequality separately. First, $3 \le \frac{x}{2x-5}$ is equivalent to \[0 \le \frac{x}{2x-5} - 3 = \frac{x - 3(2x-5)}{2x-5} = \frac{-5x + 15}{2x-5}.\]Making a sign table, we have: \begin{tabular}{c|cc|c} &$-5x+15$ &$2x-5$ &$\frac{-5x+15}{2x-5}$ \\ \hline$x<\frac{5}{2}$ &$+$&$-$&$-$\\ [.1cm]$\frac{5}{2}<x<3$ &$+$&$+$&$+$\\ [.1cm]$x>3$ &$-$&$+$&$-$\\ [.1cm]\end{tabular}Therefore, the inequality holds when $\tfrac52 < x < 3,$ as well as the endpoint $x = 3,$ which makes the right-hand side zero. The solution set to the first inequality is $(\tfrac52, 3].$ Second, $\frac{x}{2x-5} < 8$ is equivalent to \[\frac{x}{2x-5} - 8 = \frac{x - 8(2x-5)}{2x-5} = \frac{-15x + 40}{2x-5} < 0.\]Making another sign table, we have: \begin{tabular}{c|cc|c} &$-15x+40$ &$2x-5$ &$\frac{-15x+40}{2x-5}$ \\ \hline$x<\frac{5}{2}$ &$+$&$-$&$-$\\ [.1cm]$\frac{5}{2}<x<\frac{8}{3}$ &$+$&$+$&$+$\\ [.1cm]$x>\frac{8}{3}$ &$-$&$+$&$-$\\ [.1cm]\end{tabular}It follows that the inequality holds when either $x < \tfrac52$ or $x > \tfrac83.$ The intersection of this solution set with $(\tfrac52, 3]$ is $\boxed{(\tfrac83, 3]},$ which is the solution set for both inequalities combined.
Intermediate Algebra
Evaluate $\left|\frac12 - \frac38i\right|$.
Level 2
We have \[\left|\frac12 - \frac38i\right| = \left|\frac{1}{8}\left(4 - 3i\right)\right| = \frac18|4-3i| = \frac18\sqrt{4^2 +(-3)^2} = \boxed{\frac58}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Find all values of $x$ which satisfy \[\frac{6}{\sqrt{x - 8} - 9} + \frac{1}{\sqrt{x - 8} - 4} + \frac{7}{\sqrt{x - 8} + 4} + \frac{12}{\sqrt{x - 8} + 9} = 0.\]Enter all the solutions, separated by commas.
Level 3
Let $y = \sqrt{x - 8},$ so \[\frac{6}{y - 9} + \frac{1}{y - 4} + \frac{7}{y + 4} + \frac{12}{y + 9} = 0.\]Note that \[\frac{6}{y - 9} + \frac{12}{y + 9} = \frac{6(y + 9) + 12(y - 9)}{y^2 - 81} = \frac{18y - 54}{y^2 - 81} = \frac{18(y - 3)}{y^2 - 81},\]and \[\frac{1}{y - 4} + \frac{7}{y + 4} = \frac{y + 4 + 7(y - 4)}{y^2 - 16} = \frac{8y - 24}{y^2 - 16} = \frac{8(y - 3)}{y^2 - 16},\]so \[\frac{18(y - 3)}{y^2 - 81} + \frac{8(y - 3)}{y^2 - 16} = 0.\]If $y = 3,$ then $x = 3^2 + 8 = 17.$ Otherwise, we can divide both sides by $2(y - 3),$ to get \[\frac{9}{y^2 - 81} + \frac{4}{y^2 - 16} = 0.\]Multiplying both sides by $(y^2 - 16)(y^2 - 81),$ we get \[9(y^2 - 16) + 4(y^2 - 81) = 0.\]Then $13y^2 = 468,$ so $y^2 = 36.$ Since $y = \sqrt{x - 8}$ must be nonnegative, $y = 6.$ Then $x = 6^2 + 8 = 44.$ Therefore, the solutions are $\boxed{17,44}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Part of the graph of $f(x) = ax^3 + bx^2 + cx + d$ is shown. What is $b$? [asy] unitsize(1.5 cm); real func(real x) { return((x + 1)*(x - 1)*(x - 2)); } draw(graph(func,-1.1,1.5)); draw((-1.5,0)--(1.5,0),Arrows(6)); draw((0,-1)--(0,2.5),Arrows(6)); label("$x$", (1.5,0), E); label("$f(x)$", (0,2.5), N); dot("$(-1,0)$", (-1,0), SE, fontsize(10)); dot("$(1,0)$", (1,0), SW, fontsize(10)); dot("$(0,2)$", (0,2), NE, fontsize(10)); [/asy]
Level 3
We have \[ 0 = f(-1) = -a+b-c+d\]and \[0 = f(1) = a+b+c+d, \]so $b+d=0$. Also $d=f(0) = 2$, so $b=\boxed{-2}$.
Intermediate Algebra
Let $A$ be a point on the parabola $y = x^2 - 9x + 25,$ and let $B$ be a point on the line $y = x - 8.$ Find the shortest possible distance $AB.$
Level 4
Let $A = (a,a^2 - 9a + 25)$ be a point on the parabola $y = x^2 - 9x + 25.$ Then the distance from $A$ to line $x - y - 8 = 0$ is \begin{align*} \frac{|a - (a^2 - 9a + 25) - 8|}{\sqrt{2}} &= \frac{|-a^2 + 10a - 33|}{\sqrt{2}} \\ &= \frac{|a^2 - 10a + 33|}{\sqrt{2}} \\ &= \frac{|(a - 5)^2 + 8|}{\sqrt{2}}. \end{align*}We see that $(a - 5)^2 + 8$ is minimized when $a = 5,$ and the minimum distance is $\frac{8}{\sqrt{2}} = \boxed{4 \sqrt{2}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The function $f(x)$ satisfies \[xf(y) = yf(x)\]for all real numbers $x$ and $y.$ If $f(15) = 20,$ find $f(3).$
Level 2
Setting $y = 3$ and $x = 15,$ we get \[15f(3) = 3f(15) = 60,\]so $f(3) = \boxed{4}.$
Intermediate Algebra
A sequence consists of $2010$ terms. Each term after the first is 1 larger than the previous term. The sum of the $2010$ terms is $5307$. When every second term is added up, starting with the first term and ending with the second last term, what is the sum?
Level 4
We label the terms $x_1, x_2, x_3, \ldots, x_{2009},x_{2010}$. Suppose that $S$ is the sum of the odd-numbered terms in the sequence; that is, \[ S = x_1 + x_3 + x_5 + \cdots + x_{2007}+x_{2009} \]We know that the sum of all of the terms is 5307; that is, \[ x_1 + x_2 + x_3 + \cdots + x_{2009}+x_{2010} = 5307 \]Next, we pair up the terms: each odd-numbered term with the following even-numbered term. That is, we pair the first term with the second, the third term with the fourth, and so on, until we pair the 2009th term with the 2010th term. There are 1005 such pairs. In each pair, the even-numbered term is one bigger than the odd-numbered term. That is, $x_2-x_1=1$, $x_4-x_3=1$, and so on. Therefore, the sum of the even-numbered terms is 1005 greater than the sum of the odd-numbered terms. Thus, the sum of the even-numbered terms is $S+1005$. Since the sum of all of the terms equals the sum of the odd-numbered terms plus the sum of the even-numbered terms, then $S+(S+1005)=5307$ or $2S=4302$ or $S=2151$. Thus, the required sum is $\boxed{2151}$.
Intermediate Algebra
Find the number of positive integers $n$ that satisfy \[(n - 1)(n - 3)(n - 5) \dotsm (n - 97) < 0.\]
Level 3
We can count that there are 49 factors in the given product. For $n < 1,$ all the factors are negative, so the product is negative. Then for $1 < n < 3,$ the factor $n - 1$ changes sign, and the product becomes positive. For $3 < n < 5,$ the product changes sign again, and the product becomes negative, so the inequality holds for $n = 4.$ Continuing in this way, we see that the inequality holds for $n = 4,$ 8, 16, $\dots,$ 96. For $n > 97,$ all the factors are positive, so the total number of such integers is $\boxed{24}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $A,$ $R,$ $M,$ and $L$ be positive real numbers such that \begin{align*} \log_{10} (AL) + \log_{10} (AM) &= 2, \\ \log_{10} (ML) + \log_{10} (MR) &= 3, \\ \log_{10} (RA) + \log_{10} (RL) &= 4. \end{align*}Compute the value of the product $ARML.$
Level 3
We can write the given equations as \begin{align*} \log_{10} (A^2 ML) &= 2, \\ \log_{10} (RM^2 L) &= 3, \\ \log_{10} (AR^2 L) &= 4. \end{align*}Then $A^2 ML = 10^2,$ $RM^2 L = 10^3,$ and $AR^2 L = 10^4.$ Multiplying these equations, we get $A^3 R^3 M^3 L^3 = 10^9,$ so $ARML = 10^3 = \boxed{1000}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a > 0$, and let $P(x)$ be a polynomial with integer coefficients such that \[P(1) = P(3) = P(5) = P(7) = a\]and \[P(2) = P(4) = P(6) = P(8) = -a.\]What is the smallest possible value of $a$?
Level 5
There must be some polynomial $Q(x)$ such that $$P(x)-a=(x-1)(x-3)(x-5)(x-7)Q(x).$$Then, plugging in values of $2,4,6,8,$ we get $$P(2)-a=(2-1)(2-3)(2-5)(2-7)Q(2) = -15Q(2) = -2a,$$$$P(4)-a=(4-1)(4-3)(4-5)(4-7)Q(4) = 9Q(4) = -2a,$$$$P(6)-a=(6-1)(6-3)(6-5)(6-7)Q(6) = -15Q(6) = -2a,$$$$P(8)-a=(8-1)(8-3)(8-5)(8-7)Q(8) = 105Q(8) = -2a.$$That is, $$-2a=-15Q(2)=9Q(4)=-15Q(6)=105Q(8).$$Thus, $a$ must be a multiple of $\text{lcm}(15,9,15,105)=315$. Now we show that there exists $Q(x)$ such that $a=315.$ Inputting this value into the above equation gives us $$Q(2)=42, \quad Q(4)=-70, \quad Q(6)=42, \quad Q(8)=-6.$$From $Q(2) = Q(6) = 42,$ $Q(x)=R(x)(x-2)(x-6)+42$ for some $R(x).$ We can take $R(x) = -8x + 60,$ so that $Q(x)$ satisfies both $Q(4) = -70$ and $Q(8) = -6.$ Therefore, our answer is $ \boxed{ 315}. $
Intermediate Algebra
Find the nonconstant polynomial $P(x)$ such that \[P(P(x)) = (x^2 + x + 1) P(x).\]
Level 5
Let $d$ be the degree of $P(x).$ Then the degree of $P(P(x))$ is $d^2,$ and the degree of $(x^2 + x + 1) P(x)$ is $d + 2,$ so \[d^2 = d + 2.\]Then $d^2 - d - 2 = (d - 2)(d + 1) = 0.$ Since $d$ is positive, $d = 2.$ Let $P(x) = ax^2 + bx + c.$ Then \begin{align*} P(P(x)) &= a(ax^2 + bx + c)^2 + b(ax^2 + bx + c) + c \\ &= a^3 x^4 + 2a^2 bx^3 + (ab^2 + 2a^2 c + ab) x^2 + (2abc + b^2) x + ac^2 + bc + c \end{align*}and \[(x^2 + x + 1)(ax^2 + bx + c) = ax^4 + (a + b) x^3 + (a + b + c) x^2 + (b + c) x + c.\]Comparing coefficients, we get \begin{align*} a^3 &= a, \\ 2a^2 b &= a + b, \\ ab^2 + 2a^2 c + ab &= a + b + c, \\ 2abc + b^2 &= b + c, \\ ac^2 + bc + c &= c. \end{align*}From $a^3 = a,$ $a^3 - a = a(a - 1)(a + 1) = 0,$ so $a$ is 0, 1, or $-1.$ But $a$ is the leading coefficient, so $a$ cannot be 0, which means $a$ is 1 or $-1.$ If $a = 1,$ then $2b = 1 + b,$ so $b = 1.$ Then \[1 + 2c + 1 = 1 + 1 + c,\]so $c = 0.$ Note that $(a,b,c) = (1,1,0)$ satisfies all the equations. If $a = -1,$ then $2b = -1 + b,$ so $b = -1.$ Then \[-1 + 2c + 1 = -1 - 1 + c,\]so $c = -2.$ But then the equation $ac^2 + bc + c = c$ is not satisfied. Hence, $(a,b,c) = (1,1,0),$ and $P(x) = \boxed{x^2 + x}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $f(x)$ be a third-degree polynomial with real coefficients satisfying \[|f(1)|=|f(2)|=|f(3)|=|f(5)|=|f(6)|=|f(7)|=12.\]Find $|f(0)|$.
Level 5
Each of the six values $f(1),$ $f(2),$ $f(3),$ $f(5),$ $f(6),$ $f(7)$ is equal to 12 or $-12.$ The equation $f(x) = 12$ has at most three roots, and the equation $f(x) = -12$ has at most three roots, so exactly three of the values are equal to 12, and the other three are equal to $-12.$ Furthermore, let $s$ be the sum of the $x$ that such that $f(x) = 12.$ Then by Vieta's formulas, the sum of the $x$ such that $f(x) = -12$ is also equal to $s.$ (The polynomials $f(x) - 12$ and $f(x) + 12$ only differ in the constant term.) Hence, \[2s = 1 + 2 + 3 + 5 + 6 + 7 = 24,\]so $s = 12.$ The only ways to get three numbers from $\{1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7\}$ to add up to 12 are $1 + 5 + 6$ and $2 + 3 + 7.$ Without loss of generality, assume that $f(1) = f(5) = f(6) = -12$ and $f(2) = f(3) = f(7) = 12.$ Let $g(x) = f(x) + 12.$ Then $g(x)$ is a cubic polynomial, and $g(1) = g(5) = g(6) = 0,$ so \[g(x) = c(x - 1)(x - 5)(x - 6)\]for some constant $c.$ Also, $g(2) = 24,$ so \[24 = c(2 - 1)(2 - 5)(2 - 6).\]This leads to $c = 2.$ Then $g(x) = 2(x - 1)(x - 5)(x - 6),$ so \[f(x) = 2(x - 1)(x - 5)(x - 6) - 12.\]In particular, $|f(0)| = \boxed{72}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Suppose $a<0$ and $a<b<c$. Which of the following must be true? $ab < bc$ $ac<bc$ $ab< ac$ $a+b<b+c$ $c/a <1$ Enter your answer as a list of those options that are always true. For instance, if you think only the first and third are true, enter A, C.
Level 5
Consider a negative $b$ and a positive $c$. Then $ab$ is positive and $bc$ is negative, and hence this is not true. If we consider negative numbers for all three variables, $ac>bc$, and hence this is not true. Consider a negative $b$ and a positive $c$. Then $ab$ is positive and $ac$ is negative, hence this is not true. Subtracting $b$ from both sides gives us $a<c$ which we know is true. If $c$ is positive then $c/a$ is negative and $c/a < 1$. If $c$ is negative, then $a<c<0$ which means $c/a < 1$. Thus, $\boxed{D, E}$ are always true.
Intermediate Algebra
Is $f(x) = \frac{3}{2x^{6}-5}$ an even function, odd function, or neither? Enter "odd", "even", or "neither".
Level 1
$$f(-x) = \frac{3}{2(-x)^{6}-5} = \frac{3}{2x^{6}-5} = f(x)$$Hence $f$ is $\boxed{\text{even}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a,$ $b,$ and $c$ be the roots of \[x^3 - 5x + 7 = 0.\]Find the monic polynomial, in $x,$ whose roots are $a - 2,$ $b - 2,$ and $c - 2.$
Level 5
Let $y = x - 2.$ Then $x = y + 2,$ so \[(y + 2)^3 - 5(y + 2) + 7 = 0.\]This simplifies to $y^3 + 6y^2 + 7y + 5 = 0.$ The corresponding polynomial in $x$ is then $\boxed{x^3 + 6x^2 + 7x + 5}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $x$ and $y$ be positive real numbers. Find the maximum value of \[\frac{(x + y)^2}{x^2 + y^2}.\]
Level 2
We claim that the maximum value is 2. Note that for $x = y,$ \[\frac{(x + y)^2}{x^2 + y^2} = \frac{4x^2}{2x^2} = 2.\]The inequality $\frac{(x + y)^2}{x^2 + y^2} \le 2$ is equivalent to \[(x + y)^2 \le 2x^2 + 2y^2,\]which in turn simplifies to $x^2 - 2xy + y^2 \ge 0.$ We can write this as $(x - y)^2 \ge 0.$ This inequality holds, and since all our steps are reversible, the inequality $\frac{(x + y)^2}{x^2 + y^2} \le 2$ also holds. Hence, the maximum value is $\boxed{2}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find the smallest positive real number $x$ such that \[\lfloor x^2 \rfloor - x \lfloor x \rfloor = 6.\]
Level 5
Let $n = \lfloor x \rfloor$ and $f = \{x\}.$ Then $x = n + f,$ so \[\lfloor n^2 + 2nf + f^2 \rfloor - (n + f) n = 6.\]Since $n^2$ is an integer, we can pull it out of the floor, to get \[n^2 + \lfloor 2nf + f^2 \rfloor - n^2 - nf = 6.\]Thus, \[\lfloor 2nf + f^2 \rfloor - nf = 6.\]Since $\lfloor 2nf + f^2 \rfloor$ and 6 are integers, $nf$ must also be an integer. Hence, we can also pull $2nf$ out of the floor, to get \[2nf + \lfloor f^2 \rfloor = nf + 6,\]so $nf + \lfloor f^2 \rfloor = 6.$ Since $0 \le f < 1,$ $0 \le f^2 < 1,$ so $\lfloor f^2 \rfloor = 0.$ Hence, $nf = 6,$ so \[n = \frac{6}{f}.\]Since $f < 1,$ $n > 6.$ The smallest possible value of $n$ is then 7. If $n = 7,$ then $f = \frac{6}{7},$ so $x = 7 + \frac{6}{7} = \frac{55}{7},$ which is a solution. Thus, the smallest solution $x$ is $\boxed{\frac{55}{7}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find all the real solutions to \[\frac{(x - 1)(x - 2)(x - 3)(x - 4)(x - 3)(x - 2)(x - 1)}{(x - 2)(x - 4)(x - 2)} = 1.\]Enter all the solutions, separated by commas.
Level 4
If $x = 2$ or $x = 4,$ then the fraction is undefined. Otherwise, we can cancel the factors of $(x - 2)(x - 4)(x - 2),$ to get \[(x - 1)(x - 3)(x - 3)(x - 1) = 1.\]Then $(x - 1)^2 (x - 3)^2 - 1 = 0,$ so $[(x - 1)(x - 3) + 1][(x - 1)(x - 3) - 1] = 0.$ If $(x - 1)(x - 3) + 1 = 0,$ then $x^2 - 4x + 4 = (x - 2)^2 = 0.$ We have already ruled out $x = 2.$ If $(x - 1)(x - 3) - 1 = 0,$ then $x^2 - 4x + 2 = 0.$ By the quadratic formula, \[x = 2 \pm \sqrt{2}.\]Thus, the solutions are $\boxed{2 + \sqrt{2}, 2 - \sqrt{2}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Consider all polynomials of the form \[x^9 + a_8 x^8 + a_7 x^7 + \dots + a_2 x^2 + a_1 x + a_0,\]where $a_i \in \{0,1\}$ for all $0 \le i \le 8.$ Find the number of such polynomials that have exactly two different integer roots.
Level 5
If all the $a_i$ are equal to 0, then the polynomial becomes $x^9 = 0,$ which has only one integer root, namely $x = 0.$ Thus, we can assume that there is some coefficient $a_i$ that is non-zero. Let $k$ be the smallest integer such that $a_k \neq 0$; then we can take out a factor of $x^k,$ to get \[x^k (x^{9 - k} + a_8 x^{8 - k} + a_7 x^{7 - k} + \dots + a_{k + 1} x + a_k) = 0.\]By the Integer Root Theorem, any integer root of $x^{9 - k} + a_8 x^{8 - k} + \dots + a_{k + 1} x + a_k = 0$ must divide $a_k = 1,$ so the only possible integer roots are 1 and $-1.$ However, if we plug in $x = 1,$ we see that $x^{9 - k} = 1,$ and all the other terms are nonnegative, so $x = 1$ cannot be a root. Therefore, for the original polynomial to have two different integer roots, they must be 0 and $-1.$ For 0 to be a root, it suffices to take $a_0 = 0,$ and the polynomial is \[x^9 + a_8 x^8 + a_7 x^7 + a_6 x^6 + a_5 x^5 + a_4 x^4 + a_3 x^3 + a_2 x^2 + a_1 x = 0.\]We also want $x = -1$ to be a root. We have that $(-1)^9 = -1,$ so in order for the polynomial to become 0 at $x = -1,$ we must choose some of the $a_i$ to be equal to 1. Specifically, if $k$ is the number of $i$ such that $a_i = 1$ and $i$ is odd, then the number of $i$ such that $a_i = 1$ and $i$ is even must be $k + 1.$ There are four indices that are odd (1, 3, 5, 7), and four indices that are even (2, 4, 6, 8), so the possible values of $k$ are 0, 1, 2, and 3. Furthermore, for each $k,$ so the number of ways to choose $k$ odd indices and $k + 1$ even indices is $\binom{4}{k} \binom{4}{k + 1}.$ Therefore, the number of such polynomials is \[\binom{4}{0} \binom{4}{1} + \binom{4}{1} \binom{4}{2} + \binom{4}{2} \binom{4}{3} + \binom{4}{3} \binom{4}{4} = \boxed{56}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Suppose that all four of the numbers \[3 - 2\sqrt{2}, \; -3-2\sqrt{2}, \; 1+\sqrt{7}, \; 1-\sqrt{7}\]are roots of the same nonzero polynomial with rational coefficients. What is the smallest possible degree of the polynomial?
Level 3
Because the polynomial has rational coefficients, the radical conjugate of each of the given roots must also be roots of the polynomial. However, $1+\sqrt{7}$ and $1-\sqrt{7}$ are each other's radical conjugates, so we only get $2$ more roots. (You might be tempted to think that $3-2\sqrt2$ and $-3-2\sqrt2$ are also a pair of radical conjugates, but the radical conjugate of $3-2\sqrt2$ is $3+2\sqrt2,$ while the radical conjugate of $-3-2\sqrt2$ is $-3+2\sqrt2.$ Therefore, each one of the numbers $3-2\sqrt2$ and $-3-2\sqrt2$ is actually the negation of the radical conjugate of the other one.) In total, the polynomial must have at least $4+2=6$ roots. Furthermore, the polynomial \[(x - 3 + 2 \sqrt{2})(x - 3 - 2 \sqrt{2})(x + 3 + 2 \sqrt{2})(x + 3 - 2 \sqrt{2})(x - 1 - \sqrt{7})(x - 1 + \sqrt{7}) = (x^2 - 6x + 1)(x^2 + 6x + 1)(x^2 - 2x - 6)\]has roots $3 \pm 2 \sqrt{2},$ $-3 \pm 2 \sqrt{2},$ and $1 \pm \sqrt{7},$ and has rational coefficients. Hence, the smallest possible degree is $\boxed{6}.$
Intermediate Algebra
What is the equation of the oblique asymptote of the graph of $\frac{2x^2+7x+10}{2x+3}$? Enter your answer in the form $y = mx + b.$
Level 2
Polynomial long division gives us \[ \begin{array}{c|ccc} \multicolumn{2}{r}{x} & +2 \\ \cline{2-4} 2x+3 & 2x^2&+7x&+10 \\ \multicolumn{2}{r}{2x^2} & +3x & \\ \cline{2-3} \multicolumn{2}{r}{0} & 4x & +10 \\ \multicolumn{2}{r}{} & 4x & +6 \\ \cline{3-4} \multicolumn{2}{r}{} & 0 & 4 \\ \end{array} \]Hence, we can write $$\frac{2x^2+7x+10}{2x+3} = x + 2 + \frac{4}{2x+3}.$$So we can see that as $x$ becomes far from $0$, the graph of the function gets closer and closer to the line $\boxed{y = x+2}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The graph of the rational function $\frac{1}{q(x)}$ is shown below. If $q(x)$ is a quadratic and $q(2) = 6$, find $q(x).$ [asy] size(8cm); import graph; Label f; f.p=fontsize(6); real f(real x) {return 1/(2*(x+1)*(x-1));} int gridsize = 5; draw((-gridsize,0)--(gridsize,0), black+1bp, Arrows(8)); draw((0,-gridsize)--(0, gridsize), black+1bp, Arrows(8)); label("$x$", (gridsize, 0), E); label("$y$", (0, gridsize), N); label("$0$", (0,0),SE, p=fontsize(8pt)); for (int i=-gridsize+1; i<0; ++i){ label("$"+string(i)+"$",(i,0),S, p=fontsize(8pt)); label("$"+string(i)+"$",(0,i),E, p=fontsize(8pt));} for (int i=1; i<=gridsize-1; ++i){ label("$"+string(i)+"$",(i,0),S, p=fontsize(8pt)); label("$"+string(i)+"$",(0,i),E, p=fontsize(8pt));} draw(graph(f,-5,-1.05)); draw(graph(f,-.95,.95)); draw(graph(f,1.05,5)); draw((-1,-5)--(-1,5), dashed); draw((1,-5)--(1,5), dashed); [/asy]
Level 3
The graph has vertical asymptotes at $x=-1$ and $x=1$. Since there is a vertical asymptote at $x=-1$, there must be a factor of $x+1$ in the denominator $q(x)$. Similarly, since there is a vertical asymptote at $x=1$, there must be a factor of $x-1$ in the denominator $q(x)$. Since $q(x)$ is quadratic, we have that $q(x) = a(x-1)(x+1)$, for some constant $a$. Since $q(2) = 6$, we have $a(2-1)(2+1) = 6$ and hence $a=2$. So $q(x) = 2(x - 1)(x + 1) = \boxed{2x^2 - 2}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a_1,$ $a_2,$ $\dots,$ $a_{12}$ be positive real numbers such that $a_1 + a_2 + \dots + a_{12} = 1.$ Find the minimum value of \[\frac{1}{a_1} + \frac{1}{a_2} + \dots + \frac{1}{a_{12}}.\]
Level 3
By Cauchy-Schwarz, \[(a_1 + a_2 + \dots + a_{12}) \left( \frac{1}{a_1} + \frac{1}{a_2} + \dots + \frac{1}{a_{12}} \right) \ge (1 + 1 + \dots + 1)^2 = 12^2 = 144,\]so \[\frac{1}{a_1} + \frac{1}{a_2} + \dots + \frac{1}{a_{12}} \ge 144.\]Equality occurs when $a_i = \frac{1}{12}$ for all $i,$ so the minimum value is $\boxed{144}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The planet Xavier follows an elliptical orbit with its sun at one focus. At its nearest point (perigee), it is 2 astronomical units (AU) from the sun, while at its furthest point (apogee) it is 12 AU away. When Xavier is midway along its orbit, as shown, how far is it from the sun, in AU? [asy] unitsize(1 cm); path ell = xscale(2)*arc((0,0),1,-85,265); filldraw(Circle((0,-1),0.1)); filldraw(Circle((-1.4,0),0.2),yellow); draw(ell,Arrow(6)); [/asy]
Level 3
Let $A$ be the perigee, let $B$ be the apogee, let $F$ be the focus where the sun is, let $O$ be the center of the ellipse, and let $M$ be the current position of Xavier. [asy] unitsize(1 cm); pair A, B, F, M, O; path ell = xscale(2)*Circle((0,0),1); A = (-2,0); B = (2,0); F = (-sqrt(3),0); O = (0,0); M = (0,-1); draw(ell); draw(A--M); draw(O--M); draw(F--M); draw(A--B); dot("$A$", A, W); dot("$B$", B, E); dot("$F$", F, N); dot("$M$", M, S); dot("$O$", O, N); [/asy] Then $AB$ is a major axis of the ellipse, and $AB = 2 + 12 = 14.$ Since $M$ is the midway point, $MF = AO = \frac{14}{2} = \boxed{7}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Evaluate \[i^{14762} + i^{14763} + i^{14764} + i^{14765}.\]
Level 1
We can take out a factor of $i^{14762}$ to get \[i^{14762} + i^{14763} + i^{14764} + i^{14765} = i^{14762} (1 + i + i^2 + i^3).\]Since $i^2 = -1$ and $i^3 = -i,$ \[1 + i + i^2 + i^3 = 1 + i - 1 - i = 0.\]Therefore, the expression is equal to $\boxed{0}.$
Intermediate Algebra
A polynomial product of the form \[(1 - z)^{b_1} (1 - z^2)^{b_2} (1 - z^3)^{b_3} (1 - z^4)^{b_4} (1 - z^5)^{b_5} \dotsm (1 - z^{32})^{b_{32}},\]where the $b_k$ are positive integers, has the surprising property that if we multiply it out and discard all terms involving $z$ to a power larger than 32, what is left is just $1 - 2z.$ Determine $b_{32}.$ You can enter your answer using exponential notation.
Level 5
Let $g(z) = (1 - z)^{b_1} (1 - z^2)^{b_2} (1 - z^3)^{b_3} (1 - z^4)^{b_4} (1 - z^5)^{b_5} \dotsm (1 - z^{32})^{b_{32}}.$ Since $g(z)$ reduces to $1 - 2z$ if we eliminate all powers of $z$ that are $z^{33}$ or higher, we write \[g(z) \equiv 1 - 2z \pmod{z^{33}}.\]Then \begin{align*} g(-z) &= (1 + z)^{b_1} (1 - z^2)^{b_2} (1 + z^3)^{b_3} (1 - z^4)^{b_4} (1 + z^5)^{b_5} \dotsm (1 - z^{32})^{b_{32}} \\ &\equiv 1 + 2z \pmod{z^{33}}, \end{align*}so \begin{align*} g(z) g(-z) &= (1 - z^2)^{b_1 + 2b_2} (1 - z^4)^{2b_4} (1 - z^6)^{b_3 + 2b_6} (1 - z^8)^{2b_8} \dotsm (1 - z^{30})^{b_{15} + 2b_{30}} (1 - z^{32})^{2b_{32}} \\ &\equiv (1 + 2z)(1 - 2z) \equiv 1 - 2^2 z^2 \pmod{z^{33}}. \end{align*}Let $g_1(z^2) = g(z) g(-z),$ so \begin{align*} g_1(z) &= (1 - z)^{c_1} (1 - z^2)^{c_2} (1 - z^3)^{c_3} (1 - z^4)^{c_4} \dotsm (1 - z^{16})^{c_{16}} \\ &\equiv 1 - 2^2 z \pmod{z^{17}}, \end{align*}where $c_i = b_i + 2b_{2i}$ if $i$ is odd, and $c_i = 2b_{2i}$ if $i$ is even. In particular, $c_{16} = 2b_{32}.$ Then \begin{align*} g_1(z) g_1(-z) &= (1 - z^2)^{c_1 + 2c_2} (1 - z^4)^{2c_4} (1 - z^6)^{c_3 + 2c_6} (1 - z^8)^{2c_8} \dotsm (1 - z^{14})^{c_7 + 2c_{14}} (1 - z^{16})^{2c_{16}} \\ &\equiv (1 - 2^2 z)(1 + 2^2 z) \equiv 1 - 2^4 z^2 \pmod{z^{17}}. \end{align*}Thus, let $g_2(z^2) = g_1(z) g_1(-z),$ so \begin{align*} g_2 (z) &= (1 - z)^{d_1} (1 - z^2)^{d_2} (1 - z^3)^{d_3} (1 - z)^{d_4} \dotsm (1 - z^7)^{d_7} (1 - z^8)^{d_8} \\ &\equiv 1 - 2^4 z \pmod{z^9}, \end{align*}where $d_i = c_i + 2c_{2i}$ if $i$ is odd, and $d_i = 2c_{2i}$ if $i$ is even. In particular, $d_8 = 2c_{16}.$ Similarly, we obtain a polynomial $g_3(z)$ such that \[g_3(z) = (1 - z)^{e_1} (1 - z^2)^{e_2} (1 - z^3)^{e_3} (1 - z)^{e_4} \equiv 1 - 2^8 z \pmod{z^5},\]and a polynomial $g_4(z)$ such that \[g_4(z) = (1 - z)^{f_1} (1 - z^2)^{f_2} \equiv 1 - 2^{16} z \pmod{z^3}.\]Expanding, we get \begin{align*} g_4(z) &= (1 - z)^{f_1} (1 - z^2)^{f_2} \\ &= \left( 1 - f_1 z + \binom{f_1}{2} z^2 - \dotsb \right) \left( 1 - f_2 z^2 + \dotsb \right) \\ &= 1 - f_1 z + \left( \binom{f_1}{2} - f_2 \right) z^2 + \dotsb. \end{align*}Hence, $f_1 = 2^{16}$ and $\binom{f_1}{2} - f_2 = 0,$ so \[f_2 = \binom{f_1}{2} = \binom{2^{16}}{2} = \frac{2^{16} (2^{16} - 1)}{2} = 2^{31} - 2^{15}.\]We have that $f_2 = 2e_4 = 4d_8 = 8c_{16} = 16b_{32},$ so \[b_{32} = \frac{f_2}{16} = \boxed{2^{27} - 2^{11}}.\]We leave it to the reader to find a polynomial that actually satisfies the given condition.
Intermediate Algebra
Solve for $y$: $4+2.3y = 1.7y - 20$
Level 2
First we get all the terms with $y$ on one side by subtracting $1.7y$ from both sides. This gives us $4+0.6y = -20$. Subtracting 4 from both sides gives $0.6y = -24$. Dividing both sides by 0.6 isolates $y$ and gives us $y = -24/(0.6) = -240/6 = \boxed{-40}$.
Algebra
Let $a,$ $b,$ and $c$ be nonzero real numbers such that $a + b + c = 0.$ Simplify \[\frac{1}{b^2 + c^2 - a^2} + \frac{1}{a^2 + c^2 - b^2} + \frac{1}{a^2 + b^2 - c^2}.\]
Level 4
From the equation $a + b + c = 0,$ $a = -b - c,$ so \[\frac{1}{b^2 + c^2 - a^2} = \frac{1}{b^2 + c^2 - (b + c)^2} = \frac{1}{-2bc} = -\frac{1}{2bc}.\]Similarly, \[\frac{1}{a^2 + c^2 - b^2} = -\frac{1}{2ac} \quad \text{and} \quad \frac{1}{a^2 + b^2 - c^2} = -\frac{1}{2ab},\]so \begin{align*} \frac{1}{b^2 + c^2 - a^2} + \frac{1}{a^2 + c^2 - b^2} + \frac{1}{a^2 + b^2 - c^2} &= -\frac{1}{2bc} - \frac{1}{2ac} - \frac{1}{2ab} \\ &= -\frac{a + b + c}{2abc} = \boxed{0}. \end{align*}
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a$ and $b$ be positive real numbers such that each of the equations $x^2 + ax + 2b = 0$ and $x^2 + 2bx + a = 0$ has real roots. Find the smallest possible value of $a + b.$
Level 3
Since both quadratics have real roots, we must have $a^2 \ge 8b$ and $4b^2 \ge 4a,$ or $b^2 \ge a.$ Then \[b^4 \ge a^2 \ge 8b.\]Since $b > 0,$ it follows that $b^3 \ge 8,$ so $b \ge 2.$ Then $a^2 \ge 16,$ so $a \ge 4.$ If $a = 4$ and $b = 2,$ then both discriminants are nonnegative, so the smallest possible value of $a + b$ is $\boxed{6}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $G$ be the set of polynomials of the form $$ P(z)=z^n+c_{n-1}z^{n-1}+\cdots+c_2z^2+c_1z+50, $$where $ c_1,c_2,\dots, c_{n-1} $ are integers and $P(z)$ has distinct roots of the form $a+ib$ with $a$ and $b$ integers. How many polynomials are in $G$?
Level 5
Since the coefficients of the polynomial are real numbers, any nonreal roots must come in conjugate pairs. Thus, when we factor $P(z)$ over the integers, each factor is either of the form $z - c,$ where $c$ is an integer, or \[(z - a - bi)(z - a + bi) = z^2 - 2az + a^2 + b^2,\]where $a$ and $b$ are integers, and $b \neq 0.$ Furthermore, the product of the constant terms must be 50, so for each linear factor, $c$ divides 50, and for each quadratic factor, $a^2 + b^2$ divides 50. We call these linear and quadratic factors basic factors. For each divisor $d$ of 50, so $d \in \{1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50\},$ let $B_d$ be the set of basic factors where the constant term is $\pm d.$ For $d = 1,$ any basic quadratic factor must satisfy \[a^2 + b^2 = 1.\]The only solution is $(a,b) = (0, \pm 1),$ which leads to the quadratic factor $z^2 + 1.$ We also have the linear factors $z \pm 1.$ Hence, $|B_1| = 3.$ For $d = 2,$ any basic quadratic factor must satisfy \[a^2 + b^2 = 2.\]The solutions are $(a,b) = (\pm 1, \pm 1),$ which leads to the quadratic factors $z^2 - 2z + 2$ and $z^2 + 2z + 2.$ We also have the linear factors $z \pm 2.$ Hence, $|B_2| = 4.$ For $d = 5,$ the solutions to \[a^2 + b^2 = 5\]are $(a,b) = (\pm 1, \pm 2)$ and $(\pm 2, \pm 1),$ so $|B_5| = 6.$ For $d = 10,$ the solutions to \[a^2 + b^2 = 10\]are $(a,b) = (\pm 1, \pm 3)$ and $(\pm 3, \pm 1),$ so $|B_{10}| = 6.$ For $d = 25,$ the solutions to \[a^2 + b^2 = 25\]are $(a,b) = (\pm 3, \pm 4),$ $(\pm 4, \pm 3),$ and $(0, \pm 5),$ so $|B_{25}| = 7.$ For $d = 50,$ the solutions to \[a^2 + b^2 = 50\]are $(a,b) = (\pm 1, \pm 7),$ $(\pm 5, \pm 5),$ and $(\pm 7, \pm 1),$ so $|B_{50}| = 8.$ Now, consider the factors of $P(z)$ which belong in $B_d,$ where $d > 1.$ We have the following cases: $\bullet$ There is one factor in $B_{50}.$ $\bullet$ There is one factor in $B_2,$ and one factor in $B_{25}.$ $\bullet$ There is one factor in $B_5,$ and one factor in $B_{10}.$ $\bullet$ There is one factors in $B_2,$ and two factors in $B_5.$ Case 1: There is one factor in $B_{50}.$ There are 8 ways to choose the factor in $B_{50}.$ Case 2: There is one factor in $B_2,$ and one factor in $B_{25}.$ There are 4 ways to choose the factor in $B_2,$ and 7 ways to choose the factor in $B_{25}.$ Case 3: There is one factor in $B_5,$ and one factor in $B_{10}.$ There are 6 ways to choose the factor in $B_5,$ and 6 ways to choose the factor in $B_{10}.$ Case 4: There is one factors in $B_2,$ and two factors in $B_5.$ There are 4 ways to choose the factor in $B_2,$ and $\binom{6}{2}$ ways to choose the two factors in $B_5.$ Hence, there are \[8 + 4 \cdot 7 + 6 \cdot 6 + 4 \binom{6}{2} = 132\]ways to choose the factors in $B_d,$ where $d > 1.$ After we have chosen these factors, we can include $z + 1$ or $z^2 + 1$ arbitrarily. Finally, the constant coefficient is either 50 or $-50$ at this point. If the coefficient is 50, then we cannot include $z - 1.$ If the constant coefficient is $-50,$ then we must include $z - 1.$ Thus, whether we include $z - 1$ or not is uniquely determined. Therefore, the total number of polynomials in $G$ is $132 \cdot 2^2 = \boxed{528}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Define a function $A(m, n)$ by \[ A(m,n) = \left\{ \begin{aligned} &n+1& \text{ if } m = 0 \\ &A(m-1, 1) & \text{ if } m > 0 \text{ and } n = 0 \\ &A(m-1, A(m, n-1))&\text{ if } m > 0 \text{ and } n > 0. \end{aligned} \right.\]Compute $A(2, 1).$
Level 4
We iterate through the definition of $A(m, n).$ Each step below is marked either $(1),$ $(2),$ or $(3),$ corresponding to the three parts of the definition of $A(m, n)$: \[\begin{aligned} A(2, 1)&\stackrel{(3)}{=} A(1, A(2, 0)) \\ &\stackrel{(2)}{=} A(1, A(1, 1)) \\ &\stackrel{(3)}{=} A(1, A(0, A(1, 0))) \\ &\stackrel{(2)}{=} A(1, A(0, A(0, 1))) \\ &\stackrel{(1)}{=} A(1, A(0, 2)) \\ &\stackrel{(1)}{=} A(1, 3) \\ &\stackrel{(3)}{=} A(0, A(1, 2)) \\ &\stackrel{(3)}{=} A(0, A(0, A(1, 1))). \end{aligned}\]In the last few steps, we actually computed $A(1, 1) = 3,$ so we have \[A(2, 1) = A(0, A(0, 3)) = A(0, 4) = \boxed{5}\]by applying $(1)$ twice. (Note: the function $A(m, n)$ is called the Ackermann function. Because of its deeply recursive definition, $A(m, n)$ grows extremely quickly. For example, other values of $A(m, n)$ include $A(3, 3) = 29$ and $A(4, 2) = 2^{65536} - 3,$ which has tens of thousands of digits in base ten!)
Intermediate Algebra
If the ratio of $b$ to $a$ is 3, then what is the value of $a$ when $b=12-5a$?
Level 3
The given ratio tells us that $\frac{b}{a}=3$ or that $b=3a$. We substitute this value for $b$ so we have an equation with only one variable. We find \begin{align*} 3a&=12-5a \\ \Rightarrow \quad 8a&=12 \\ \Rightarrow \quad a &= 12/8 \\ \Rightarrow \quad a &= \boxed{\frac{3}{2}}. \end{align*}
Algebra
Let $S_n$ denote the sum of the first $n$ terms of an arithmetic sequence with common difference 3. If $\frac{S_{3n}}{S_n}$ is a constant that does not depend on $n,$ for all positive integers $n,$ then find the first term.
Level 4
Let $a$ be the first term. Then \[S_n = \frac{n [2a + (n - 1) 3]}{2}\]and \[S_{3n} = \frac{3n [2a + (3n - 1) 3]}{2},\]so \[\frac{S_{3n}}{S_n} = \frac{\frac{3n [2a + (3n - 1) 3]}{2}}{\frac{n [2a + (n - 1) 3]}{2}} = \frac{3(2a + 9n - 3)}{2a + 3n - 3} = \frac{6a + 27n - 9}{2a + 3n - 3}.\]Let this constant be $c,$ so \[\frac{6a + 27n - 9}{2a + 3n - 3} = c.\]Then $6a + 27n - 9 = 2ac + 3cn - 3c.$ Since both sides are equal for all $n,$ the coefficients of $n$ must be equal. In other words, $27 = 3c,$ so $c = 9.$ then $6a - 9 = 18a - 27.$ Solving, we find $a = \boxed{\frac{3}{2}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find a monic quartic polynomial, in $x,$ with rational coefficients such that $2+\sqrt{2}$ and $1-\sqrt{3}$ are roots of the polynomial.
Level 3
If $2+\sqrt{2}$ is the root of a polynomial with rational coefficients, then so is $2-\sqrt{2}$. Their sum is $4$ and their product is $(2+\sqrt{2})(2-\sqrt{2}) = 4-2=2.$ Thus, the monic quadratic with roots $2+\sqrt{2}$ and $2-\sqrt{2}$ is $x^2-4x+2$. If $1-\sqrt{3}$ is the root of a polynomial with rational coefficients, then so is $1+\sqrt{3}$. Their sum is $2$ and their product is $(1-\sqrt{3})(1+\sqrt{3}) = 1-3=-2.$ Thus, the monic quadratic with roots $1-\sqrt{3}$ and $1+\sqrt{3}$ is $x^2-2x-2$. Thus, the monic quartic with roots $2+\sqrt{2}$ and $1-\sqrt{3}$ is $$(x^2-4x+2)(x^2-2x-2) = \boxed{x^4-6x^3+8x^2+4x-4}.$$
Intermediate Algebra
Let the ordered triples $(x,y,z)$ of complex numbers that satisfy \begin{align*} x + yz &= 7, \\ y + xz &= 10, \\ z + xy &= 10. \end{align*}be $(x_1,y_1,z_1),$ $(x_2,y_2,z_2),$ $\dots,$ $(x_n,y_n,z_n).$ Find $x_1 + x_2 + \dots + x_n.$
Level 5
Subtracting the equations $y + xz = 10$ and $z + xy = 10,$ we get \[y + xz - z - xy = 0.\]Then $y - z + x(z - y) = 0,$ so $(y - z)(1 - x) = 0.$ Hence, $y = z$ or $x = 1.$ If $x = 1,$ then $yz = 6$ and $y + z = 10.$ Then by Vieta's formulas, $y$ and $z$ are the roots of $t^2 - 10t + 6 = 0.$ Thus, $x = 1$ for two ordered triples $(x,y,z).$ If $y = z,$ then \begin{align*} x + y^2 &= 7, \\ y + xy &= 10. \end{align*}Squaring the second equation, we get $(x + 1)^2 y^2 = 100.$ Then $(x + 1)^2 (7 - x) = 100,$ which simplifies to $x^3 - 5x^2 - 13x + 93 = 0.$ By Vieta's formulas, the sum of the roots is 5, so the sum of all the $x_i$ is $2 + 5 = \boxed{7}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Shown below are rows 1, 2, and 3 of Pascal's triangle. \[ \begin{array}{ccccccc} & & 1 & & 1 & & \\ & 1 & & 2 & & 1 & \\ 1 & & 3 & & 3 & & 1 \end{array} \]Let $(a_i),$ $(b_i),$ $(c_i)$ be the sequence, from left to right, of elements in the 2005th, 2006th, and 2007th rows, respectively, with the leftmost element occurring at $i = 0.$ Compute \[\sum_{i = 0}^{2006} \frac{b_i}{c_i} - \sum_{i = 0}^{2005} \frac{a_i}{b_i}.\]
Level 5
More generally, suppose $(a_i),$ $(b_i),$ $(c_i)$ represent the entries in rows $n - 1,$ $n,$ $n + 1$ of Pascal's triangle. Then \[a_i = \binom{n - 1}{i}, \ b_i = \binom{n}{i}, \ c_i = \binom{n + 1}{i},\]so \begin{align*} \frac{a_i}{b_i} &= \frac{\binom{n - 1}{i}}{\binom{n}{i}} \\ &= \frac{\frac{(n - 1)!}{i! (n - i - 1)!}}{\frac{n!}{i! (n - i)!}} \\ &= \frac{(n - 1)! (n - i)!}{n! (n - i - 1)!} \\ &= \frac{n - i}{n} \\ &= 1 - \frac{i}{n}. \end{align*}Hence, \begin{align*} \sum_{i = 0}^{n - 1} \frac{a_i}{b_i} &= \sum_{i = 0}^{n - 1} \left( 1 - \frac{i}{n} \right) \\ &= n - \frac{(n - 1)n/2}{n} \\ &= n - \frac{n - 1}{2} = \frac{n + 1}{2}. \end{align*}Likewise, \[\frac{b_i}{c_i} = 1 - \frac{i}{n + 1},\]and \[\sum_{i = 0}^n \frac{b_i}{c_i} = \frac{n + 2}{2}.\]Hence, \[\sum_{i = 0}^n \frac{b_i}{c_i} - \sum_{i = 0}^{n - 1} \frac{a_i}{b_i} = \frac{n + 2}{2} - \frac{n + 1}{2} = \boxed{\frac{1}{2}}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Simplify the product \[\frac{8}{4}\cdot\frac{12}{8}\cdot\frac{16}{12} \dotsm \frac{4n+4}{4n} \dotsm \frac{2008}{2004}.\]
Level 1
Note that the 8 in the first fraction cancels with the 8 in the second fraction, the 12 in the second fraction cancels with the 12 in the third fraction, and so on. We are then left with $\frac{2008}{4} = \boxed{502}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The function $f$ has the property that for each real number $x$ in its domain, $1/x$ is also in its domain and \[ f(x) + f\left(\frac{1}{x}\right) = x. \]What is the largest set of real numbers that can be in the domain of $f$? (a) ${\{x\mid x\ne0\}}$ (b) ${\{x\mid x<0\}}$ (c) ${\{x\mid x>0\}}$ (d) ${\{x\mid x\ne-1\ \text{and}\ x\ne0\ \text{and}\ x\ne1\}}$ (e) ${\{-1,1\}}$
Level 4
The conditions on $f$ imply that both \[ x = f(x) + f\displaystyle\left(\frac{1}{x}\displaystyle\right)\]and \[\frac{1}{x} = f\left(\frac{1}{x}\right) + f\displaystyle\left(\frac{1}{1/x}\displaystyle\right) = f\displaystyle\left(\frac{1}{x}\displaystyle\right) + f(x). \]Thus if $x$ is in the domain of $f$, then $x = 1/x$, so $x = \pm 1$. The conditions are satisfied if and only if $f(1)=1/2$ and $f(-1)=-1/2$. Hence the answer is $\boxed{E}$.
Intermediate Algebra
The legs of a right triangle have lengths $\log_4 27$ and $\log_2 9.$ If the length of the hypotenuse is $h,$ compute $4^h.$
Level 4
Let $t = \log_4 3.$ Then, $\log_4 27 = 3 \log_4 3 = 3t,$ and $\log_2 9 = \frac{\log_4 9}{\log_4 2} = \frac{2 \log_4 3}{1/2} = 4t.$ Therefore the triangle has its sides in the proportion $3:4:5,$ so $h = 5t = 5 \log_4 3 = \log_4 243.$ Thus, $4^h = \boxed{243}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $A$, $M$, and $C$ be nonnegative integers such that $A+M+C=12$. What is the maximum value of \[A\cdot M\cdot C+A\cdot M+M\cdot C+C\cdot A?\]
Level 3
Let $q$ be the given quantity, $AMC+AM+MC+CA$. Notice that \[q + (A+M+C) + 1 = (A+1)(M+1)(C+1).\]By AM-GM, \[(A + 1)(M + 1)(C + 1) \le \left[ \frac{(A + 1) + (M + 1) + (C + 1)}{3} \right]^3 = \left( \frac{A + M + C + 3}{3} \right)^3 = 125,\]so $q \le 125 - 12 - 1 = 112.$ Equality occurs when $A = M = C = 4,$ so the maximum value is $\boxed{112}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Evaluate $\left\lceil\sqrt{\frac{9}{4}}\right\rceil+\left\lceil\frac{9}{4}\right\rceil+\left\lceil\left(\frac{9}{4}\right)^2\right\rceil$.
Level 4
The equation can be rewritten as $\left\lceil\frac{3}{2}\right\rceil+\left\lceil\frac{9}{4}\right\rceil+\left\lceil\frac{81}{16}\right\rceil$. The smallest integer greater than $\frac{3}{2}$ is $2$. The smallest integer greater than $\frac{9}{4}$ is $3$. The smallest integer greater than $\frac{81}{16}$ is $6$. Therefore $2+3+6=\boxed{11}$.
Algebra
Find the distance between the vertices of the hyperbola $9x^2 + 54x - y^2 + 10y + 55 = 0.$
Level 3
Completing the square in $x$ and $y,$ we get \[9(x + 3)^2 - (y - 5)^2 = 1,\]which we can write as \[\frac{(x + 3)^2}{1/9} - \frac{(y - 5)^2}{1} = 1.\]Thus, $a^2 = \frac{1}{9}$ and $b^2 = 1,$ so $a = \frac{1}{3}.$ Therefore, the distance between the vertices is $2a = \boxed{\frac{2}{3}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Simplify \[\frac{1}{\log_{15} 2 + 1} + \frac{1}{\log_{10} 3 + 1} + \frac{1}{\log_6 5 + 1}.\]
Level 3
By the change-of-base formula, \begin{align*} \frac{1}{\log_{15} 2 + 1} + \frac{1}{\log_{10} 3 + 1} + \frac{1}{\log_6 5 + 1} &= \frac{1}{\frac{\log 2}{\log 15} + 1} + \frac{1}{\frac{\log 3}{\log 10} + 1} + \frac{1}{\frac{\log 5}{\log 6} + 1} \\ &= \frac{\log 15}{\log 2 + \log 15} + \frac{\log 10}{\log 3 + \log 10} + \frac{\log 6}{\log 5 + \log 6} \\ &= \frac{\log 15}{\log 30} + \frac{\log 10}{\log 30} + \frac{\log 6}{\log 30} \\ &= \frac{\log 15 + \log 10 + \log 6}{\log 30} \\ &= \frac{\log 900}{\log 30} = \frac{2 \log 30}{\log 30} = \boxed{2}. \end{align*}
Intermediate Algebra
Find the largest real number $\lambda$ such that \[a^2 + b^2 + c^2 + d^2 \ge ab + \lambda bc + cd\]for all nonnegative real numbers $a,$ $b,$ $c,$ $d.$
Level 5
Let \[f(a,b,c,d) = a^2 + b^2 + c^2 + d^2 - (ab + \lambda bc + cd).\]For fixed values of $b,$ $c,$ and $d,$ $f(a,b,c,d)$ is minimized when $a = \frac{b}{2}.$ Similarly, for fixed values of $a,$ $b,$ $c,$ $f(a,b,c,d)$ is minimized when $d = \frac{c}{2}.$ Thus, it suffices to look at the case where $a = \frac{b}{2}$ and $d = \frac{c}{2},$ in which case the given inequality becomes \[\frac{5b^2}{4} + \frac{5c^2}{4} \ge \frac{b^2}{2} + \lambda bc + \frac{c^2}{2},\]or $5b^2 + 5c^2 \ge 2b^2 + 4 \lambda bc + 2c^2.$ This reduces to \[3b^2 + 3c^2 \ge 4 \lambda bc.\]Taking $b = c = 1,$ we find $6 \ge 4 \lambda,$ so $\lambda \le \frac{3}{2}.$ On the other hand, if $\lambda = \frac{3}{2},$ then the inequality above becomes \[3b^2 + 3c^2 \ge 6bc,\]which holds due to AM-GM. Therefore, the largest such $\lambda$ is $\boxed{\frac{3}{2}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find the distance between the vertices of the hyperbola \[\frac{y^2}{27} - \frac{x^2}{11} = 1.\]
Level 2
We read that $a^2 = 27,$ so $a = \sqrt{27} = 3 \sqrt{3}.$ Therefore, the distance between the vertices is $2a = \boxed{6 \sqrt{3}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $f : \mathbb{R} \to \mathbb{R}$ be a function such that \[f(x^2 + yf(z)) = xf(x) + zf(y)\]for all real numbers $x,$ $y,$ and $z.$ Let $n$ be the number of possible values of $f(5),$ and let $s$ be the sum of all possible values of $f(5).$ Find $n \times s.$
Level 5
Setting $x = y = 0,$ we get \[f(0) = zf(0)\]for all $z,$ so $f(0) = 0.$ Setting $y = 0,$ we get \[f(x^2) = xf(x)\]for all $x.$ Setting $x = 0,$ we get \[f(yf(z)) = zf(y).\]In particular, for $y = 1,$ $f(f(z)) = zf(1).$ Since $f(x^2) = xf(x),$ \[f(f(x^2)) = f(xf(x)).\]But $f(f(x^2)) = x^2 f(1)$ and $f(xf(x)) = xf(x),$ so \[x^2 f(1) = xf(x).\]Then for $x \neq 0,$ $f(x) = f(1) x.$ Since $f(0) = 0,$ \[f(x) = f(1) x\]for all $x.$ Let $c = f(1),$ so $f(x) = cx.$ Substituting into the given equation, we get \[cx^2 + c^2 yz = cx^2 + cyz.\]For this to hold for all $x,$ $y,$ and $z,$ we must have $c^2 = c,$ so $c = 0$ or $c = 1.$ Thus, the solutions are $f(x) = 0$ and $f(x) = x.$ This means $n = 2$ and $s = 0 + 5,$ so $n \times s = \boxed{10}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Suppose that $a$ and $b$ are nonzero real numbers, and that the equation $x^2+ax+b=0$ has solutions $a$ and $b$. Find the ordered pair $(a,b).$
Level 2
By Vieta's formulas, $a + b = -a$ and $ab = b.$ Since $b$ is nonzero, $a = 1.$ Then $b = -2a = -2,$ so $(a,b) = \boxed{(1,-2)}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find the minimum value of \[x^2 + 8x + \frac{64}{x^3}\]for $x > 0.$
Level 4
By AM-GM, \begin{align*} x^2 + 8x + \frac{64}{x^3} &= x^2 + 2x + 2x + 2x + 2x + \frac{32}{x^3} + \frac{32}{x^3} \\ &\ge 7 \sqrt[7]{(x^2)(2x)(2x)(2x)(2x) \left( \frac{32}{x^3} \right) \left( \frac{32}{x^3} \right)} \\ &= 28. \end{align*}Equality occurs when $x = 2,$ so the minimum value of $f(x)$ for $x > 0$ is $\boxed{28}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Both roots of the quadratic equation $x^2 - 63x + k = 0$ are prime numbers. Find the number of possible values of $k.$
Level 2
Let $p$ and $q$ be the roots. Then by Vieta's formulas, $p + q = 63.$ If both $p$ and $q$ are odd, then $p + q$ is even, so one of $p$ or $q$ must be even. This means one of $p$ and $q$ is 2, and the other is $63 - 2 = 61.$ Therefore, $k = 2 \cdot 61 = 122,$ so there is only $\boxed{1}$ possible value of $k.$
Intermediate Algebra
In a magic square, the sum of the three entries in any row, column, or diagonal is the same value. The figure below shows four of the entries of a magic square. Find $x$. [asy] size(2cm); for (int i=0; i<=3; ++i) draw((i,0)--(i,3)^^(0,i)--(3,i)); label("$x$",(0.5,2.5));label("$19$",(1.5,2.5)); label("$96$",(2.5,2.5));label("$1$",(0.5,1.5)); [/asy]
Level 3
Denote the remaining entries by $d, e, f, g, h,$ as shown: [asy] size(2cm); for (int i=0; i<=3; ++i) draw((i,0)--(i,3)^^(0,i)--(3,i)); label("$x$",(0.5,2.5));label("$19$",(1.5,2.5)); label("$96$",(2.5,2.5));label("$1$",(0.5,1.5)); label("$d$",(1.5,1.5));label("$e$",(2.5,1.5)); label("$f$",(0.5,0.5));label("$g$",(1.5,0.5));label("$h$",(2.5,0.5)); [/asy] One possible solution proceeds in three steps, as follows: The leftmost column and up-right diagonal have the same sum, so $x + 1 + f = 96 + d + f,$ which gives $d = x - 95.$ The down-right diagonal and the rightmost column have the same sum, so $x + (x-95) + h = 96 + e + h,$ which gives $e = 2x - 191.$ Finally, the first row and second sum have the same sum, so \[x + 19 + 96 = 1 + (x-95) + (2x-191),\]which gives $x = \boxed{200}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let \[P(x) = (2x^4 - 26x^3 + ax^2 + bx + c)(5x^4 - 80x^3 + dx^2 + ex + f),\]where $a, b, c, d, e, f$ are real numbers. Suppose that the set of all complex roots of $P(x)$ is $\{1, 2, 3, 4, 5\}.$ Find $P(6).$
Level 5
Let $Q(x)$ and $R(x)$ denote the two factors on the right-hand side, so that $P(x) = Q(x) \cdot R(x).$ By Vieta's formulas, the sum of the roots of $Q(x)$ is $\tfrac{26}{2} = 13,$ and the sum of the roots of $R(x)$ is $\tfrac{80}{5} = 16$ (counting with multiplicity). Therefore, the sum of the eight roots of $P(x)$ is $13 + 16 = 29.$ Each of the numbers $1, 2, 3, 4, 5$ must be one of those roots, so the remaining three roots, which must also come from the set $\{1, 2, 3, 4, 5\},$ must sum to $29 - (1+2+3+4+5) = 14.$ The only way this is possible is if the remaining three roots are $4, 5, 5.$ Therefore, the roots of $P(x)$ are $1, 2, 3, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5$ (with multiplicity). Since the leading coefficient of $P(x)$ is $2 \cdot 5 = 10,$ this means that \[P(x) = 10(x-1)(x-2)(x-3)(x-4)^2(x-5)^3.\]Therefore, $P(6) = 10 \cdot 5 \cdot 4 \cdot 3 \cdot 2^2 \cdot 1^3 = \boxed{2400}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The real number $x$ satisfies $x^2 - 5x + 6 < 0.$ Find all possible values of $x^2 + 5x + 6.$
Level 4
The inequality $x^2 - 5x + 6 < 0$ factors as $(x - 2)(x - 3) < 0,$ so the solution is $2 < x < 3.$ Since $x^2 + 5x + 6$ is increasing on this interval, we have that \[x^2 + 5x + 6 > 2^2 + 5 \cdot 2 + 6 = 20\]and \[x^2 + 5x + 6 < 3^2 + 5 \cdot 3 + 6 = 30.\]Therefore, the set of possible values of $x^2 + 5x + 6$ is $\boxed{(20,30)}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The function $f$ satisfies \[ f(x) + f(2x+y) + 5xy = f(3x - y) + 2x^2 + 1 \]for all real numbers $x,y$. Determine the value of $f(10)$.
Level 4
Setting $x = 10$ and $y=5$ gives $f(10) + f(25) + 250 = f(25) + 200 + 1$, from which we get $f(10) = \boxed{-49}$. $\text{Remark:}$ By setting $y = \frac x 2$, we see that the function is $f(x) = -\frac 1 2 x^2 + 1$, and it can be checked that this function indeed satisfies the given equation.
Intermediate Algebra
Let $S$ be the sum of all the real coefficients of the expansion of ${(1+ix)}^{2009}$. What is $\log_{2}(S)$?
Level 5
By the Binomial Theorem, \[(1 + ix)^{2009} = 1 + \binom{2009}{1} ix - \binom{2009}{2} x^2 - \binom{2009}{3} ix^3 + \binom{2009}{4} x^4 + \dotsb.\]Also, \[(1 - ix)^{2009} = 1 - \binom{2009}{1} ix - \binom{2009}{2} x^2 + \binom{2009}{3} ix^3 + \binom{2009}{4} x^4 + \dotsb.\]Adding the two, all the imaginary terms cancel, and we are left with the real terms: \[(1 + ix)^{2009} + (1 - ix)^{2009} = 2 \left[ 1 - \binom{2009}{2} x^2 + \binom{2009}{4} x^4 + \dotsb \right].\]Then we can find the sum of the real terms by dividing by 2 and setting $x = 1$: \[\frac{(1 + i)^{2009} + (1 - i)^{2009}}{2}.\]We can write \begin{align*} (1 + i)^{2009} &= (1 + i) (1 + i)^{2008} \\ &= (1 + i) ((1 + i)^2)^{1004} \\ &= (1 + i) (1 + 2i - 1)^{1004} \\ &= 2^{1004} (1 + i). \end{align*}Similarly, $(1 - i)^{2009} = 2^{1004} (1 - i),$ so \[\frac{(1 + i)^{2009} + (1 - i)^{2009}}{2} = \frac{2^{1004} (1 + i) + 2^{1004} (1 - i)}{2} = 2^{1004}.\]Therefore, $\log_2 S = \boxed{1004}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The sum of two numbers is $19$ and their difference is $5$. What is their product?
Level 1
Let the numbers be $x$ and $y$. The problem translates into a system of equations: \begin{align*} x+y &= 19\\ x-y &= 5. \end{align*} Adding the equations, we obtain $x+y+x-y = 24$, which implies $2x = 24$. Therefore, $x = 12$. Subtracting the equations, we obtain $(x+y)-(x-y) = 14$, which implies $2y = 14$. Therefore, $y = 7$. Our desired product is $xy = 12\cdot7 =\boxed{84}$.
Algebra
What is the largest integer less than $\log_2 \frac{2}{1} + \log_2 \frac{3}{2} + \cdots + \log_2 \frac{2009}{2008} + \log_2 \frac{2010}{2009}$?
Level 4
Recall that $\log_2 \frac{x}{y} = \log_2 x - \log_2 y$. Applying this identity to each term in the sum, we find that the sum is equal to to $(\log_2 2 - \log_2 1) + (\log_2 3 - \log_2 2) + \cdots + (\log_2 2010 - \log_2 2009)$. Most of the intermediate terms cancel out; the expression eventually evaluates to \[\log_2 2010 - \log_2 1 = \log_2 2010.\]Note that $2^{10} = 1024$, but $2^{11} = 2048$, so $10 < \log_2 2010 < 11$. It follows that the largest integer less than $\log_2 \frac{2}{1} + \log_2 \frac{3}{2} + \cdots + \log_2 \frac{2009}{2008} + \log_2 \frac{2010}{2009}$ is $\boxed{10}$.
Intermediate Algebra
The function $f : \mathbb{R} \to \mathbb{R}$ satisfies \[f(x) + 2f(1 - x) = 3x^2\]for all $x.$ Find $f(4).$
Level 3
Setting $x = 4$ in the given functional equation, we get \[f(4) + 2f(-3) = 48.\]Setting $x = -3$ in the given functional equation, we get \[f(-3) + 2f(4) = 27.\]Doubling the second equation, we get $2f(-3) + 4f(4) = 54.$ Subtracting the equation $f(4) + 2f(-3) = 48,$ we get $3f(4) = 6,$ so $f(4) = \boxed{2}.$
Intermediate Algebra
The function $f(x)$ satisfies \[f(x + f(x)) = 4f(x)\]for all $x,$ and $f(1) = 4.$ Find $f(21).$
Level 2
Setting $x = 1,$ we get $f(1 + f(4)) = 4f(1),$ so \[f(5) = 16.\]Setting $x = 5,$ we get $f(5 + f(5)) = 4f(5),$ so \[f(21) = \boxed{64}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Let $x = (2 + \sqrt{3})^{1000},$ let $n = \lfloor x \rfloor,$ and let $f = x - n.$ Find \[x(1 - f).\]
Level 4
Let $\alpha = 2 + \sqrt{3}$ and $\beta = 2 - \sqrt{3}.$ Then consider the number \begin{align*} N &= \alpha^{1000} + \beta^{1000} \\ &= (2 + \sqrt{3})^{1000} + (2 - \sqrt{3})^{1000} \\ &= 2^{1000} + \binom{1000}{1} 2^{999} (\sqrt{3}) + \binom{1000}{2} 2^{998} (\sqrt{3})^2 + \binom{1000}{3} (\sqrt{3})^3 + \dotsb \\ &\quad + 2^{1000} - \binom{1000}{1} 2^{999} (\sqrt{3}) + \binom{1000}{2} 2^{998} (\sqrt{3})^2 - \binom{1000}{3} (\sqrt{3})^3 + \dotsb. \end{align*}Adding $(2 + \sqrt{3})^{1000}$ and $(2 - \sqrt{3})^{1000}$, we see that all the terms containing a $\sqrt{3}$ will cancel, meaning that we are left with an integer. Furthermore, \[\beta = 2 - \sqrt{3} = \frac{(2 - \sqrt{3})(2 + \sqrt{3})}{2 + \sqrt{3}} = \frac{1}{2 + \sqrt{3}} < 1,\]so $0 < \beta^{1000} < 1.$ Therefore, \[N - 1 < \alpha^{1000} < N,\]which means $n = \lfloor \alpha^{1000} \rfloor = N - 1.$ Then \[f = x - n = \alpha^{1000} - (N - 1) = 1 - \beta^{1000},\]so $1 - f = \beta^{1000}.$ Hence, \begin{align*} x(1 - f) &= \alpha^{1000} \beta^{1000} \\ &= (\alpha \beta)^{1000} \\ &= [(2 + \sqrt{3})(2 - \sqrt{3})]^{1000} \\ &= 1^{1000} \\ &= \boxed{1}. \end{align*}
Intermediate Algebra
Find \[\sum_{n = 1}^\infty \frac{n^2 + n - 1}{(n + 2)!}.\]
Level 4
Let \[S_m = \sum_{n = 1}^m \frac{n^2 + n - 1}{(n + 2)!}.\]We compute the first few sums $S_m$: \[ \renewcommand{\arraystretch}{1.5} \begin{array}{c|c} m & S_m \\ \hline 1 & \frac{1}{6} \\ 2 & \frac{3}{8} \\ 3 & \frac{7}{15} \\ 4 & \frac{71}{144} \\ 5 & \frac{419}{840} \end{array} \]We note that the fractions seem to be approaching $\frac{1}{2},$ so we also compute $\frac{1}{2} - S_m$: \[ \renewcommand{\arraystretch}{1.5} \begin{array}{c|c|c} m & S_m & \frac{1}{2} - S_m \\ \hline 1 & \frac{1}{6} & \frac{1}{3} \\ 2 & \frac{3}{8} & \frac{1}{8} \\ 3 & \frac{7}{15} & \frac{1}{30} \\ 4 & \frac{71}{144} & \frac{1}{144} \\ 5 & \frac{419}{840} & \frac{1}{840} \end{array} \]We can relate the fractions $\frac{1}{2} - S_m$ to factorials in the following way: \[\frac{1}{3} = \frac{2}{3!}, \ \frac{1}{8} = \frac{3}{4!}, \ \frac{1}{30} = \frac{4}{5!}, \ \frac{1}{144} = \frac{5}{6!}, \ \frac{1}{840} = \frac{6}{7!}.\]Thus, we conjecture that \[S_m = \frac{1}{2} - \frac{m + 1}{(m + 2)!}.\]So, let \[T_n = \frac{1}{2} - \frac{n + 1}{(n + 2)!}.\]Then \begin{align*} T_n - T_{n - 1} &= \left( \frac{1}{2} - \frac{n + 1}{(n + 2)!} \right) - \left( \frac{1}{2} - \frac{n}{(n + 1)!} \right) \\ &= \frac{n}{(n + 1)!} - \frac{n + 1}{(n + 2)!} \\ &= \frac{n(n + 2) - (n + 1)}{(n + 2)!} \\ &= \frac{n^2 + n - 1}{(n + 2)!}, \end{align*}which is exactly what we are summing. From the identity \[\frac{n}{(n + 1)!} - \frac{n + 1}{(n + 2)!} = \frac{n^2 + n - 1}{(n + 2)!},\]we have that \begin{align*} \sum_{n = 1}^\infty \frac{n^2 + n - 1}{(n + 2)!} &= \left( \frac{1}{2!} - \frac{2}{3!} \right) + \left( \frac{2}{3!} - \frac{3}{4!} \right) + \left( \frac{3}{4!} - \frac{4}{5!} \right) + \dotsb \\ &= \boxed{\frac{1}{2}}. \end{align*}
Intermediate Algebra
For what values of $x$ is $\frac{\log{(3-x)}}{\sqrt{x-1}}$ defined?
Level 3
The expression inside the square root must be greater than 0 because the denominator cannot be equal to 0. Therefore, $x-1>0$, so $x>1$. The expression inside the logarithm must be greater than 0, so $3-x>0$, which gives $x<3$. Therefore, the interval of $x$ for which the expression $\frac{\log{(3-x)}}{\sqrt{x-1}}$ is defined is $1<x<3$, which is $\boxed{(1,3)}$.
Intermediate Algebra
Let $x,$ $y,$ $z$ be nonnegative real numbers. Let \begin{align*} A &= \sqrt{x + 2} + \sqrt{y + 5} + \sqrt{z + 10}, \\ B &= \sqrt{x + 1} + \sqrt{y + 1} + \sqrt{z + 1}. \end{align*}Find the minimum value of $A^2 - B^2.$
Level 5
We can write \begin{align*} A^2 - B^2 &= (A + B)(A - B) \\ &= (\sqrt{x + 2} + \sqrt{x + 1} + \sqrt{y + 5} + \sqrt{y + 1} + \sqrt{z + 10} + \sqrt{z + 1}) \\ &\quad \times (\sqrt{x + 2} - \sqrt{x + 1} + \sqrt{y + 5} - \sqrt{y + 1} + \sqrt{z + 10} - \sqrt{z + 1}). \end{align*}Let \begin{align*} a_1 &= \sqrt{x + 2} + \sqrt{x + 1}, \\ b_1 &= \sqrt{y + 5} + \sqrt{y + 1}, \\ c_1 &= \sqrt{z + 10} + \sqrt{z + 1}, \\ a_2 &= \sqrt{x + 2} - \sqrt{x + 1}, \\ b_2 &= \sqrt{y + 5} - \sqrt{y + 1}, \\ c_2 &= \sqrt{z + 10} - \sqrt{z + 1}. \end{align*}Then by Cauchy-Schwarz, \begin{align*} A^2 - B^2 &= (a_1 + b_1 + c_1)(a_2 + b_2 + c_2) \\ &\ge (\sqrt{a_1 a_2} + \sqrt{b_1 b_2} + \sqrt{c_2 c_2})^2 \\ &= (1 + 2 + 3)^2 \\ &= 36. \end{align*}Equality occurs when \[\frac{a_1}{a_2} = \frac{b_1}{b_2} = \frac{c_1}{c_2},\]or equivalently, \[\frac{x + 2}{x + 1} = \frac{y + 5}{y + 1} = \frac{z + 10}{z + 1}.\]For example, if we set each fraction to 2, then we get $x = 0,$ $y = 3,$ and $z = 8.$ Hence, the minimum value is $\boxed{36}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Solve the inequality \[-4x^2 + 7x + 2 < 0.\]
Level 3
The inequality factors as \[-(4x + 1)(x - 2) < 0.\]Therefore, the solution is $x \in \boxed{\left( -\infty, -\frac{1}{4} \right) \cup (2,\infty)}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a$ and $b$ be positive real numbers, with $a > b.$ Compute \[\frac{1}{ba} + \frac{1}{a(2a - b)} + \frac{1}{(2a - b)(3a - 2b)} + \frac{1}{(3a - 2b)(4a - 3b)} + \dotsb.\]
Level 5
The $n$th term is \[\frac{1}{[(n - 1) a - (n - 2) b][na - (n - 1) b]}.\]We can write \begin{align*} \frac{1}{[(n - 1) a - (n - 2) b][na - (n - 1) b]} &= \frac{a - b}{(a - b)[(n - 1) a - (n - 2) b][na - (n - 1) b]} \\ &= \frac{[na - (n - 1) b] - [(n - 1) a - (n - 2) b]}{(a - b)[(n - 1) a - (n - 2) b][na - (n - 1) b]} \\ &= \frac{1}{(a - b)[(n - 1)a - (n - 2)b]} - \frac{1}{(a - b)[na - (n - 1)b]}. \end{align*}Thus, \begin{align*} &\frac{1}{ba} + \frac{1}{a(2a - b)} + \frac{1}{(2a - b)(3a - 2b)} + \frac{1}{(3a - 2b)(4a - 3b)} + \dotsb \\ &= \left( \frac{1}{(a - b)b} - \frac{1}{(a - b)a} \right) + \left( \frac{1}{(a - b)a} - \frac{1}{(a - b)(2a - b)} \right) + \left( \frac{1}{(a - b)(2a - b)} - \frac{1}{(a - b)(3a - 2b)} \right) + \dotsb \\ &= \boxed{\frac{1}{(a - b)b}}. \end{align*}
Intermediate Algebra
If $A=4-3i$, $M=-4+i$, $S=i$, and $P=2$, find $A-M+S-P$.
Level 3
Adding real parts and imaginary parts separately, we have $(4-(-4)+0-2)+(-3-1+1-0)i=\boxed{6-3i}$.
Algebra
The graph of $y = f(x)$ is shown below. [asy] unitsize(0.5 cm); real func(real x) { real y; if (x >= -3 && x <= 0) {y = -2 - x;} if (x >= 0 && x <= 2) {y = sqrt(4 - (x - 2)^2) - 2;} if (x >= 2 && x <= 3) {y = 2*(x - 2);} return(y); } int i, n; for (i = -5; i <= 5; ++i) { draw((i,-5)--(i,5),gray(0.7)); draw((-5,i)--(5,i),gray(0.7)); } draw((-5,0)--(5,0),Arrows(6)); draw((0,-5)--(0,5),Arrows(6)); label("$x$", (5,0), E); label("$y$", (0,5), N); draw(graph(func,-3,3),red); label("$y = f(x)$", (3,-2), UnFill); [/asy] Which is the graph of $y = f(x + 2)$? [asy] unitsize(0.5 cm); picture[] graf; int i, n; real func(real x) { real y; if (x >= -3 && x <= 0) {y = -2 - x;} if (x >= 0 && x <= 2) {y = sqrt(4 - (x - 2)^2) - 2;} if (x >= 2 && x <= 3) {y = 2*(x - 2);} return(y); } real funcc(real x) { return(func(x - 2)); } real funce(real x) { return(func(x + 2)); } for (n = 1; n <= 5; ++n) { graf[n] = new picture; for (i = -5; i <= 5; ++i) { draw(graf[n],(i,-5)--(i,5),gray(0.7)); draw(graf[n],(-5,i)--(5,i),gray(0.7)); } draw(graf[n],(-5,0)--(5,0),Arrows(6)); draw(graf[n],(0,-5)--(0,5),Arrows(6)); label(graf[n],"$x$", (5,0), E); label(graf[n],"$y$", (0,5), N); } draw(graf[1],shift((2,-1))*graph(func,-3,3),red); draw(graf[2],shift((2,1))*graph(func,-3,3),red); draw(graf[3],graph(funcc,-1,5),red); draw(graf[4],shift((-2,-1))*graph(func,-3,3),red); draw(graf[5],graph(funce,-5,1),red); label(graf[1], "A", (0,-6)); label(graf[2], "B", (0,-6)); label(graf[3], "C", (0,-6)); label(graf[4], "D", (0,-6)); label(graf[5], "E", (0,-6)); add(graf[1]); add(shift((12,0))*(graf[2])); add(shift((24,0))*(graf[3])); add(shift((6,-12))*(graf[4])); add(shift((18,-12))*(graf[5])); [/asy] Enter the letter of the graph of $y = f(x + 2).$
Level 1
The graph of $y = f(x + 2)$ is produced by taking the graph of $y = f(x)$ and shifting two units to the left. The correct graph is $\boxed{\text{E}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $f$ be a function taking the positive integers to the positive integers, such that (i) $f$ is increasing (i.e. $f(n + 1) > f(n)$ for all positive integers $n$) (ii) $f(mn) = f(m) f(n)$ for all positive integers $m$ and $n,$ and (iii) if $m \neq n$ and $m^n = n^m,$ then $f(m) = n$ or $f(n) = m.$ Find the sum of all possible values of $f(30).$
Level 5
Note that $2^4 = 4^2,$ so from (iii), either $f(2) = 4$ or $f(4) = 2.$ But from (i), \[f(4) > f(3) > f(2) > f(1),\]so $f(4) \ge 4.$ Hence, $f(2) = 4.$ By applying (ii) repeatedly, we find that \[f(2^n) = 2^{2n}\]for all positive integers $n.$ From (i) and (iii), \[f(3)^2 = f(9) > f(8) = 64,\]so $f(3) \ge 9.$ Similarly, \[f(3)^8 = f(3^8) < f(2^{13}) = 2^{26},\]so $f(3) \le 9.$ Therefore, $f(3) = 9.$ It follows that $f(3^n) = 3^{2n}$ for all positive integers $n.$ Now, \[f(5)^3 = f(5^3) < f(2^7) = 2^{14},\]so $f(5) \le 25.$ Also, \[f(5)^{11} = f(5^{11}) > f(3^{16}) = 3^{32},\]so $f(5) \ge 25.$ Therefore, $f(5) = 25.$ Hence, \[f(30) = f(2) f(3) f(5) = 4 \cdot 9 \cdot 25 = \boxed{900}.\]Note that the function $f(n) = n^2$ satisfies all the given properties. (It can be shown that the only solutions to $n^m = m^n$ where $m \neq n$ are $(2,4)$ and $(4,2).$)
Intermediate Algebra
The graph of $y = f(x)$ is shown below. [asy] unitsize(0.5 cm); real func(real x) { real y; if (x >= -3 && x <= 0) {y = -2 - x;} if (x >= 0 && x <= 2) {y = sqrt(4 - (x - 2)^2) - 2;} if (x >= 2 && x <= 3) {y = 2*(x - 2);} return(y); } int i, n; for (i = -5; i <= 5; ++i) { draw((i,-5)--(i,5),gray(0.7)); draw((-5,i)--(5,i),gray(0.7)); } draw((-5,0)--(5,0),Arrows(6)); draw((0,-5)--(0,5),Arrows(6)); label("$x$", (5,0), E); label("$y$", (0,5), N); draw(graph(func,-3,3),red); label("$y = f(x)$", (3,-2), UnFill); [/asy] Which is the graph of $y = f(x - 1)$? [asy] unitsize(0.5 cm); picture[] graf; int i, n; real func(real x) { real y; if (x >= -3 && x <= 0) {y = -2 - x;} if (x >= 0 && x <= 2) {y = sqrt(4 - (x - 2)^2) - 2;} if (x >= 2 && x <= 3) {y = 2*(x - 2);} return(y); } for (n = 1; n <= 5; ++n) { graf[n] = new picture; for (i = -5; i <= 5; ++i) { draw(graf[n],(i,-5)--(i,5),gray(0.7)); draw(graf[n],(-5,i)--(5,i),gray(0.7)); } draw(graf[n],(-5,0)--(5,0),Arrows(6)); draw(graf[n],(0,-5)--(0,5),Arrows(6)); label(graf[n],"$x$", (5,0), E); label(graf[n],"$y$", (0,5), N); } draw(graf[1],shift(0,1)*graph(func,-3,3),red); draw(graf[2],shift(-1,0)*graph(func,-3,3),red); draw(graf[3],reflect((1,0),(1,1))*graph(func,-3,3),red); draw(graf[4],shift(1,0)*graph(func,-3,3),red); draw(graf[5],shift(0,-1)*graph(func,-3,3),red); label(graf[1], "A", (0,-6)); label(graf[2], "B", (0,-6)); label(graf[3], "C", (0,-6)); label(graf[4], "D", (0,-6)); label(graf[5], "E", (0,-6)); add(graf[1]); add(shift((12,0))*(graf[2])); add(shift((24,0))*(graf[3])); add(shift((6,-12))*(graf[4])); add(shift((18,-12))*(graf[5])); [/asy] Enter the letter of the graph of $y = f(x - 1).$
Level 1
The graph of $y = f(x - 1)$ is produced by taking the graph of $y = f(x)$ and shifting one unit to the right. The correct graph is $\boxed{\text{D}}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $a<b<c$ be three integers such that $a,b,c$ is an arithmetic progression and $a,c,b$ is a geometric progression. What is the smallest possible value of $c$?
Level 3
Since $a,$ $b,$ $c$ is an arithmetic sequence, $2b = a + c.$ Since $a,$ $c,$ $b$ is a geometric sequence, $c^2 = ab.$ From these equations, $c = 2b - a,$ and $(2b - a)^2 = ab.$ Then \[4b^2 - 4ab + a^2 = ab,\]so $a^2 - 5ab + 4b^2 = 0.$ This factors as $(a - b)(a - 4b) = 0.$ Since $a < b,$ $a = 4b.$ Furthermore, $b$ must be negative. Also, $c = 2b - a = 2b - 4b = -2b,$ where $b$ is negative. The smallest possible value of $c$ is then $\boxed{2}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Let $f(x)$ be a polynomial such that \[f(x^2 + 1) = x^4 + 4x^2.\]Find $f(x^2 - 1).$
Level 4
Let $y = x^2 + 1.$ Then $x^2 = y - 1,$ and $x^4 = y^2 - 2y + 1,$ so \[f(y) = (y^2 - 2y + 1) + 4(y - 1) = y^2 + 2y - 3.\]Hence, \[f(x^2 - 1) = (x^2 - 1)^2 + 2(x^2 - 1) - 3 = \boxed{x^4 - 4}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
Evaluate $\left|\frac56 +2i\right|$.
Level 2
We have \[\left|\frac56 +2i\right| = \left|\frac{1}{6}\left(5 +12i\right)\right| = \frac16|5+12i| = \frac16\sqrt{5^2 +12^2} = \boxed{\frac{13}{6}}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
The expression \[(x+y+z)^{2006}+(x-y-z)^{2006}\]is simplified by expanding it and combining like terms. How many terms are in the simplified expression?
Level 5
There is exactly one term in the simplified expression for every monomial of the form $x^ay^bz^c$, where $a,b$, and $c$ are non-negative integers, $a$ is even, and $a+b+c=2006$. There are 1004 even values of $a$ with $0\leq a\leq 2006$. For each such value, $b$ can assume any of the $2007-a$ integer values between 0 and $2006-a$, inclusive, and the value of $c$ is then uniquely determined as $2006-a-b$. Thus the number of terms in the simplified expression is \[ (2007-0)+(2007-2)+\cdots +(2007-2006)=2007+2005+\cdots +1. \]This is the sum of the first 1004 odd positive integers, which is $ 1004^2=\boxed{1{,}008{,}016}. $ \[ OR \]The given expression is equal to \[ \sum \frac{2006!}{a!b!c!} \left(x^ay^bz^c + x^a(-y)^b(-z)^c \right), \]where the sum is taken over all non-negative integers $a,b,$ and $c$ with $a+b+c=2006$. Because the number of non-negative integer solutions of $a+b+c=k$ is $\binom{k+2}{2}$, the sum is taken over $\binom{2008}{2}$ terms, but those for which $b$ and $c$ have opposite parity have a sum of zero. If $b$ is odd and $c$ is even, then $a$ is odd, so $a=2A+1,b=2B+1, \text{ and }c=2C$ for some non-negative integers $A,B,\text{ and }C$. Therefore $2A+1+2B+1+2C=2006$, so $A+B+C=1002$. Because the last equation has $\binom{1004}{2}$ non-negative integer solutions, there are $\binom{1004}{2}$ terms for which $b$ is odd and $c$ is even. The number of terms for which $b$ is even and $c$ is odd is the same. Thus the number of terms in the simplified expression is \[\binom{2008}{2}-2\binom{1004}{2} = 1004\cdot 2007 - 1004\cdot 1003 = 1004^2 = \boxed{1{,}008{,}016}.\]
Intermediate Algebra
An ellipse whose axes are parallel to the coordinate axes is tangent to the $x$-axis at $(4, 0)$ and tangent to the $y$-axis at $(0, 1).$ Find the distance between the foci of the ellipse.
Level 3
The ellipse must have its center at the point $(4, 1).$ Because $(4,1)$ is further from $(0,1)$ than it is from $(4,0),$ the major axis must lie parallel to the $x$-axis and have length $2 \cdot 4 = 8,$ and so the minor axis lies parallel to the $y$-axis and has length $2 \cdot 1 = 2.$ Therefore, the distance between the foci of the ellipse is $\sqrt{8^2 - 2^2} = \boxed{2\sqrt{15}}.$ [asy] pair A=(4,0),B=(0,1),F1=(4-sqrt(15),1),F2=(4+sqrt(15),1),O=(4,1); real f(real x) { return 1 + sqrt(1 - (x-4)*(x-4)/16); } real g(real x) { return 1 - sqrt(1 - (x-4)*(x-4)/16); } draw(graph(f, 0, 8) ^^ graph(g, 0, 8)); draw((0,-1)--(0,3),EndArrow); draw((-1,0)--(9,0),EndArrow); label("$x$",(9,0),E); label("$y$",(0,3),N); size(8cm); dot(A^^B^^O); label("$(0,1)$",B,W);label("$(4,0)$",A,S);label("$(4,1)$",O,E); [/asy]
Intermediate Algebra
In the coordinate plane, consider points $A = (0, 0)$, $B = (11, 0)$, and $C = (18, 0)$. Line $\ell_A$ has slope 1 and passes through $A$. Line $\ell_B$ is vertical and passes through $B$. Line $\ell_C$ has slope $-1$ and passes through $C$. The three lines $\ell_A$, $\ell_B$, and $\ell_C$ begin rotating clockwise about points $A$, $B$, and $C$, respectively. They rotate at the same angular rate. At any given time, the three lines form a triangle. Determine the largest possible area of such a triangle.
Level 5
Let $X = \ell_B \cap \ell_C,$ $Y = \ell_A \cap \ell_C,$ and $Z = \ell_A \cap \ell_B.$ Here is a diagram of the initial position: [asy] unitsize(0.4 cm); pair A, B, C, X, Y, Z; A = (0,0); B = (11,0); C = (18,0); X = extension(B, B + (0,1), C, C + dir(135)); Y = extension(A, A + dir(45), C, C + dir(135)); Z = extension(A, A + dir(45), B, B + (0,1)); draw(A--C); draw(A--Z); draw(B--Z); draw(C--Y); label("$A$", A, SW); label("$B$", B, S); label("$C$", C, SE); label("$X$", X, SW); label("$Y$", Y, NW); label("$Z$", Z, N); label("$11$", (A + B)/2, S); label("$7$", (B + C)/2, N); [/asy] Note that triangle $XZY$ is a $45^\circ$-$45^\circ$-$90^\circ$ triangle. Since all three lines rotate at the same rate, the angles between these lines always stay the same, so triangle $XZY$ will always be a $45^\circ$-$45^\circ$-$90^\circ$ triangle. Let $\alpha = \angle CAZ.$ Depending on the position of the lines, $\angle AZB$ is either $45^\circ$ or $135^\circ.$ Either way, by the Law of Sines on triangle $ABZ,$ \[\frac{BZ}{\sin \alpha} = \frac{11}{\sin 45^\circ},\]so $BZ = 11 \sqrt{2} \sin \alpha.$ [asy] unitsize(0.4 cm); pair A, B, C, X, Y, Z; real a = 70; A = (0,0); B = (11,0); C = (18,0); X = extension(B, B + dir(a + 45), C, C + dir(a + 90)); Y = extension(A, A + dir(a), C, C + dir(a + 90)); Z = extension(A, A + dir(a), B, B + dir(a + 45)); draw(A--C); draw(A--Z); draw(B--Z); draw(C--Y); label("$A$", A, SW); label("$B$", B, S); label("$C$", C, SE); label("$X$", X, SW); label("$Y$", Y, NW); label("$Z$", Z, N); label("$11$", (A + B)/2, S); label("$7$", (B + C)/2, S); label("$\alpha$", A + (0.8,0.6)); label("$45^\circ$", Z + (0.1,-2.4)); label("$45^\circ$", X + (-1.8,1.4)); [/asy] Depending on the positions of the lines, $\angle BCX$ is either $90^\circ - \alpha,$ $\alpha - 90^\circ,$ or $\alpha + 90^\circ.$ In any case, by the Law of Sines on triangle $BCX,$ \[\frac{BX}{|\sin (90^\circ - \alpha)|} = \frac{7}{\sin 45^\circ},\]so $BX = 7 \sqrt{2} |\cos \alpha|.$ Again, depending on the positions of the lines, $XZ$ is the sum or the difference of $BX$ and $BZ,$ which means it is of the form \[\pm 11 \sqrt{2} \sin \alpha \pm 7 \sqrt{2} \cos \alpha.\]Then \[XY = YZ = \pm 11 \sin \alpha \pm 7 \cos \alpha.\]By the Cauchy-Schwarz inequality, for any combination of plus signs and minus signs, \[(\pm 11 \sin \alpha \pm 7 \cos \alpha)^2 \le (11^2 + 7^2)(\sin^2 \alpha + \cos^2 \alpha) = 170,\]so $[XYZ] = \frac{XY^2}{2} \le 85.$ We can confirm that equality occurs when $\alpha$ is the obtuse angle such that $\cos \alpha = -\frac{7}{\sqrt{170}}$ and $\sin \alpha = \frac{11}{\sqrt{170}}.$ [asy] unitsize(0.4 cm); pair A, B, C, X, Y, Z; real a = 122; A = (0,0); B = (11,0); C = (18,0); X = extension(B, B + dir(a + 45), C, C + dir(a + 90)); Y = extension(A, A + dir(a), C, C + dir(a + 90)); Z = extension(A, A + dir(a), B, B + dir(a + 45)); draw(X--Z--Y--C--A); label("$A$", A, SW); label("$B$", B, N); label("$C$", C, E); label("$X$", X, SE); label("$Y$", Y, S); label("$Z$", Z, NW); label("$11$", (A + B)/2, S); label("$7$", (B + C)/2, N); label("$\alpha$", A, NE); [/asy] Therefore, the maximum area of triangle $XYZ$ is $\boxed{85}.$
Intermediate Algebra
A circle is tangent to the lines $4x - 3y = 30$ and $4x - 3y = -10.$ The center of the circle lies on the line $2x + y = 0.$ Find the center of the circle.
Level 3
Note that the lines $4x - 3y = 30$ and $4x - 3y = -10$ are parallel, so the center of the circle lies on the line which is exactly halfway between these lines, which is $4x - 3y = 10.$ [asy] unitsize(2 cm); pair A, B; A = dir(-20); B = dir(160); draw(Circle((0,0),1)); draw((A + 1.5*dir(70))--(A - 1.5*dir(70))); draw((B + 1.5*dir(70))--(B - 1.5*dir(70))); draw((1.5*dir(70))--(-1.5*dir(70)),dashed); label("$4x - 3y = -10$", B + 1.5*dir(70), N); label("$4x - 3y = 30$", A + 1.5*dir(70), N); label("$4x - 3y = 10$", -1.5*dir(70), S); dot((0,0)); [/asy] Solving the system $2x + y = 0$ and $4x - 3y = 10,$ we find $x = 1$ and $y = -2.$ Therefore, the center of the circle is $\boxed{(1,-2)}.$
Intermediate Algebra
Find all $t$ such that $x-t$ is a factor of $6x^2+13x-5.$ Enter your answer as a list separated by commas.
Level 3
From the Factor theorem, if $x-t$ is a factor of $ 6x^2+13x-5$ we know that $$6t^2+13t - 5 = 0$$Factoring gives us $$(2t+5)(3t-1) = 0$$Hence $t = \boxed{\frac{1}{3}}$ or $t = \boxed{-\frac{5}{2}}$.
Intermediate Algebra
Compute $\sqrt[4]{12960000}.$
Level 1
Since $6^4=6\cdot6\cdot6\cdot6=36\cdot6\cdot6=216\cdot6=1296$, and $10^4=10000$, we have $60^4=6^4\cdot10^4=12960000$ and $$\sqrt[4]{12960000}=\boxed{60}.$$
Algebra