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k a April Highlights and 2025 AoPS Online Class Information
jlacosta   0
Apr 2, 2025
Spring is in full swing and summer is right around the corner, what are your plans? At AoPS Online our schedule has new classes starting now through July, so be sure to keep your skills sharp and be prepared for the Fall school year! Check out the schedule of upcoming classes below.

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[*]April 22nd (Webinar), 4:00pm PT/7:00pm ET, Competitive Programming at AoPS (USACO).[/list]
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0 replies
jlacosta
Apr 2, 2025
0 replies
k i Adding contests to the Contest Collections
dcouchman   1
N Apr 5, 2023 by v_Enhance
Want to help AoPS remain a valuable Olympiad resource? Help us add contests to AoPS's Contest Collections.

Find instructions and a list of contests to add here: https://artofproblemsolving.com/community/c40244h1064480_contests_to_add
1 reply
dcouchman
Sep 9, 2019
v_Enhance
Apr 5, 2023
k i Zero tolerance
ZetaX   49
N May 4, 2019 by NoDealsHere
Source: Use your common sense! (enough is enough)
Some users don't want to learn, some other simply ignore advises.
But please follow the following guideline:


To make it short: ALWAYS USE YOUR COMMON SENSE IF POSTING!
If you don't have common sense, don't post.


More specifically:

For new threads:


a) Good, meaningful title:
The title has to say what the problem is about in best way possible.
If that title occured already, it's definitely bad. And contest names aren't good either.
That's in fact a requirement for being able to search old problems.

Examples:
Bad titles:
- "Hard"/"Medium"/"Easy" (if you find it so cool how hard/easy it is, tell it in the post and use a title that tells us the problem)
- "Number Theory" (hey guy, guess why this forum's named that way¿ and is it the only such problem on earth¿)
- "Fibonacci" (there are millions of Fibonacci problems out there, all posted and named the same...)
- "Chinese TST 2003" (does this say anything about the problem¿)
Good titles:
- "On divisors of a³+2b³+4c³-6abc"
- "Number of solutions to x²+y²=6z²"
- "Fibonacci numbers are never squares"


b) Use search function:
Before posting a "new" problem spend at least two, better five, minutes to look if this problem was posted before. If it was, don't repost it. If you have anything important to say on topic, post it in one of the older threads.
If the thread is locked cause of this, use search function.

Update (by Amir Hossein). The best way to search for two keywords in AoPS is to input
[code]+"first keyword" +"second keyword"[/code]
so that any post containing both strings "first word" and "second form".


c) Good problem statement:
Some recent really bad post was:
[quote]$lim_{n\to 1}^{+\infty}\frac{1}{n}-lnn$[/quote]
It contains no question and no answer.
If you do this, too, you are on the best way to get your thread deleted. Write everything clearly, define where your variables come from (and define the "natural" numbers if used). Additionally read your post at least twice before submitting. After you sent it, read it again and use the Edit-Button if necessary to correct errors.


For answers to already existing threads:


d) Of any interest and with content:
Don't post things that are more trivial than completely obvious. For example, if the question is to solve $x^{3}+y^{3}=z^{3}$, do not answer with "$x=y=z=0$ is a solution" only. Either you post any kind of proof or at least something unexpected (like "$x=1337, y=481, z=42$ is the smallest solution). Someone that does not see that $x=y=z=0$ is a solution of the above without your post is completely wrong here, this is an IMO-level forum.
Similar, posting "I have solved this problem" but not posting anything else is not welcome; it even looks that you just want to show off what a genius you are.

e) Well written and checked answers:
Like c) for new threads, check your solutions at least twice for mistakes. And after sending, read it again and use the Edit-Button if necessary to correct errors.



To repeat it: ALWAYS USE YOUR COMMON SENSE IF POSTING!


Everything definitely out of range of common sense will be locked or deleted (exept for new users having less than about 42 posts, they are newbies and need/get some time to learn).

The above rules will be applied from next monday (5. march of 2007).
Feel free to discuss on this here.
49 replies
1 viewing
ZetaX
Feb 27, 2007
NoDealsHere
May 4, 2019
EGMO magic square
Lukaluce   15
N 32 minutes ago by Assassino9931
Source: EGMO 2025 P6
In each cell of a $2025 \times 2025$ board, a nonnegative real number is written in such a way that the sum of the numbers in each row is equal to $1$, and the sum of the numbers in each column is equal to $1$. Define $r_i$ to be the largest value in row $i$, and let $R = r_1 + r_2 + ... + r_{2025}$. Similarly, define $c_i$ to be the largest value in column $i$, and let $C = c_1 + c_2 + ... + c_{2025}$.
What is the largest possible value of $\frac{R}{C}$?

Proposed by Paulius Aleknavičius, Lithuania
15 replies
1 viewing
Lukaluce
Monday at 11:03 AM
Assassino9931
32 minutes ago
Ant wanna come to A
Rohit-2006   2
N 39 minutes ago by zhaoli
An insect starts from $A$ and in $10$ steps and has to reach $A$ again. But in between one of the s steps and can't go $A$. Find probability. For example $ABCDCDEDEA$ is valid but $ABCDEDEDEA$ is not valid.
2 replies
Rohit-2006
6 hours ago
zhaoli
39 minutes ago
Sum of squared areas of polyhedron's faces...
Miquel-point   2
N an hour ago by buratinogigle
Source: KoMaL B. 5453
The faces of a convex polyhedron are quadrilaterals $ABCD$, $ABFE$, $CDHG$, $ADHE$ and $EFGH$ according to the diagram. The edges from points $A$ and $G$, respectively are pairwise perpendicular. Prove that \[[ABCD]^2+[ABFE]^2+[ADHE]^2=[BCGF]^2+[CDHG]^2+[EFGH]^2,\]where $[XYZW]$ denotes the area of quadrilateral $XYZW$.

Proposed by Géza Kós, Budapest
2 replies
Miquel-point
Monday at 5:44 PM
buratinogigle
an hour ago
IMO 2014 Problem 4
ipaper   168
N an hour ago by Bonime
Let $P$ and $Q$ be on segment $BC$ of an acute triangle $ABC$ such that $\angle PAB=\angle BCA$ and $\angle CAQ=\angle ABC$. Let $M$ and $N$ be the points on $AP$ and $AQ$, respectively, such that $P$ is the midpoint of $AM$ and $Q$ is the midpoint of $AN$. Prove that the intersection of $BM$ and $CN$ is on the circumference of triangle $ABC$.

Proposed by Giorgi Arabidze, Georgia.
168 replies
ipaper
Jul 9, 2014
Bonime
an hour ago
function Z to Z..
Jackson0423   3
N 2 hours ago by jasperE3
Let \( f : \mathbb{Z} \to \mathbb{Z} \) be a function satisfying
\[
f(f(x)) = x^2 - 6x + 6
\quad \text{for all} \quad x \in \mathbb{Z}.
\]Given that
\[
f(i) < f(i+1) \quad \text{for} \quad i = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,
\]find the value of
\[
f(0) + f(1) + f(2) + \cdots + f(6).
\]
3 replies
Jackson0423
Monday at 2:49 PM
jasperE3
2 hours ago
Functional equation
tenplusten   9
N 2 hours ago by Jakjjdm
Source: Bulgarian NMO 2015 P4
Find all functions $f:\mathbb{R^+}\to\mathbb {R^+} $ such that for all $x,y\in R^+$ the followings hold:
$i) $ $f (x+y)\ge f (x)+y $
$ii) $ $f (f (x))\le x $
9 replies
tenplusten
Apr 29, 2018
Jakjjdm
2 hours ago
Prove DK and BC are perpendicular.
yunxiu   61
N 2 hours ago by Avron
Source: 2012 European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad P1
Let $ABC$ be a triangle with circumcentre $O$. The points $D,E,F$ lie in the interiors of the sides $BC,CA,AB$ respectively, such that $DE$ is perpendicular to $CO$ and $DF$ is perpendicular to $BO$. (By interior we mean, for example, that the point $D$ lies on the line $BC$ and $D$ is between $B$ and $C$ on that line.)
Let $K$ be the circumcentre of triangle $AFE$. Prove that the lines $DK$ and $BC$ are perpendicular.

Netherlands (Merlijn Staps)
61 replies
yunxiu
Apr 13, 2012
Avron
2 hours ago
Number Theory Chain!
JetFire008   56
N 2 hours ago by TestX01
I will post a question and someone has to answer it. Then they have to post a question and someone else will answer it and so on. We can only post questions related to Number Theory and each problem should be more difficult than the previous. Let's start!

Question 1
56 replies
JetFire008
Apr 7, 2025
TestX01
2 hours ago
European Mathematical Cup 2016 senior division problem 1
steppewolf   11
N 3 hours ago by MuradSafarli
Is there a sequence $a_{1}, . . . , a_{2016}$ of positive integers, such that every sum
$$a_{r} + a_{r+1} + . . . + a_{s-1} + a_{s}$$(with $1 \le r \le s \le 2016$) is a composite number, but:
a) $GCD(a_{i}, a_{i+1}) = 1$ for all $i = 1, 2, . . . , 2015$;
b) $GCD(a_{i}, a_{i+1}) = 1$ for all $i = 1, 2, . . . , 2015$ and $GCD(a_{i}, a_{i+2}) = 1$ for all $i = 1, 2, . . . , 2014$?
$GCD(x, y)$ denotes the greatest common divisor of $x$, $y$.

Proposed by Matija Bucić
11 replies
steppewolf
Dec 31, 2016
MuradSafarli
3 hours ago
Find all real functions withf(x^2 + yf(z)) = xf(x) + zf(y)
Rushil   32
N 3 hours ago by InterLoop
Source: INMO 2005 Problem 6
Find all functions $f : \mathbb{R} \longrightarrow \mathbb{R}$ such that \[ f(x^2 + yf(z)) = xf(x) + zf(y) , \] for all $x, y, z \in \mathbb{R}$.
32 replies
Rushil
Aug 23, 2005
InterLoop
3 hours ago
IMO 2018 Problem 5
orthocentre   78
N 4 hours ago by chenghaohu
Source: IMO 2018
Let $a_1$, $a_2$, $\ldots$ be an infinite sequence of positive integers. Suppose that there is an integer $N > 1$ such that, for each $n \geq N$, the number
$$\frac{a_1}{a_2} + \frac{a_2}{a_3} + \cdots + \frac{a_{n-1}}{a_n} + \frac{a_n}{a_1}$$is an integer. Prove that there is a positive integer $M$ such that $a_m = a_{m+1}$ for all $m \geq M$.

Proposed by Bayarmagnai Gombodorj, Mongolia
78 replies
orthocentre
Jul 10, 2018
chenghaohu
4 hours ago
3-variable inequality with min(ab,bc,ca)>=1
mathwizard888   71
N 5 hours ago by Burak0609
Source: 2016 IMO Shortlist A1
Let $a$, $b$, $c$ be positive real numbers such that $\min(ab,bc,ca) \ge 1$. Prove that $$\sqrt[3]{(a^2+1)(b^2+1)(c^2+1)} \le \left(\frac{a+b+c}{3}\right)^2 + 1.$$
Proposed by Tigran Margaryan, Armenia
71 replies
mathwizard888
Jul 19, 2017
Burak0609
5 hours ago
IMO Shortlist 2011, Algebra 7
orl   23
N 5 hours ago by bin_sherlo
Source: IMO Shortlist 2011, Algebra 7
Let $a,b$ and $c$ be positive real numbers satisfying $\min(a+b,b+c,c+a) > \sqrt{2}$ and $a^2+b^2+c^2=3.$ Prove that

\[\frac{a}{(b+c-a)^2} + \frac{b}{(c+a-b)^2} + \frac{c}{(a+b-c)^2} \geq \frac{3}{(abc)^2}.\]

Proposed by Titu Andreescu, Saudi Arabia
23 replies
orl
Jul 11, 2012
bin_sherlo
5 hours ago
one cyclic formed by two cyclic
CrazyInMath   31
N Yesterday at 6:45 PM by juckter
Source: EGMO 2025/3
Let $ABC$ be an acute triangle. Points $B, D, E$, and $C$ lie on a line in this order and satisfy $BD = DE = EC$. Let $M$ and $N$ be the midpoints of $AD$ and $AE$, respectively. Suppose triangle $ADE$ is acute, and let $H$ be its orthocentre. Points $P$ and $Q$ lie on lines $BM$ and $CN$, respectively, such that $D, H, M,$ and $P$ are concyclic and pairwise different, and $E, H, N,$ and $Q$ are concyclic and pairwise different. Prove that $P, Q, N,$ and $M$ are concyclic.
31 replies
CrazyInMath
Apr 13, 2025
juckter
Yesterday at 6:45 PM
circumcircle and altitudes! CMO 2015 P4
aditya21   29
N Mar 15, 2025 by Ilikeminecraft
Source: canadian mathematical olympiad
Let $ABC$ be an acute-angled triangle with circumcenter $O$. Let $I$ be a circle with center on the altitude from $A$ in $ABC$, passing through vertex $A$ and points $P$ and $Q$ on sides $AB$ and $AC$. Assume that
\[BP\cdot CQ = AP\cdot AQ.\]Prove that $I$ is tangent to the circumcircle of triangle $BOC$.
29 replies
aditya21
Apr 24, 2015
Ilikeminecraft
Mar 15, 2025
circumcircle and altitudes! CMO 2015 P4
G H J
Source: canadian mathematical olympiad
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aditya21
717 posts
#1 • 2 Y
Y by Adventure10, ItsBesi
Let $ABC$ be an acute-angled triangle with circumcenter $O$. Let $I$ be a circle with center on the altitude from $A$ in $ABC$, passing through vertex $A$ and points $P$ and $Q$ on sides $AB$ and $AC$. Assume that
\[BP\cdot CQ = AP\cdot AQ.\]Prove that $I$ is tangent to the circumcircle of triangle $BOC$.
This post has been edited 4 times. Last edited by djmathman, Apr 19, 2017, 3:55 AM
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ABCDE
1963 posts
#2 • 3 Y
Y by Delray, Adventure10, Mango247
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Luis González
4147 posts
#3 • 3 Y
Y by nguyenhaan2209, Adventure10, MS_asdfgzxcvb
Since $P$ defines $Q$ unambiguously, then it's enough to prove the converse, i.e. that the relation holds if $\odot(APQ)$ is tangent to $\odot(BOC).$

Let $D,E,F$ be the midpoints of $BC,CA,AB.$ $(N) \equiv \odot(DEF)$ and $(K) \equiv \odot(OBC).$ It's known that $AK,AN$ are isogonals WRT $\angle BAC,$ thus the inversion $(A,\sqrt{AB \cdot AE})$ followed by symmetry WRT the angle bisector of $\angle BAC$ swaps $(N)$ and $\odot(OBC).$ Thus $\odot(APQ)$ goes to the tangent $P'Q'$ of $(N)$ antiparallel to $BC$ that leaves $A,N$ on a same side $\Longrightarrow$ $P'Q'$ is the tangent of $(N)$ at $D.$ So denoting $B_{\infty}$ and $C_{\infty}$ the points at infinity of $AC,AB,$ by involution properties, we get then $(P,B,A,C_{\infty})=(P',E,B_{\infty},A)$ and $(Q,C,A,B_{\infty})=(Q',F,C_{\infty},A).$ But $(P',E,B_{\infty},A)=(Q',C_{\infty},F,A)=(Q',F,C_{\infty},A)^{-1}$ $\Longrightarrow$ $(P,B,A,C_{\infty}) \cdot (Q,C,A,B_{\infty}) =1$ $\Longrightarrow$ $BP \cdot CQ=AP \cdot AQ.$

Remark: From this proof we also get that the tangency point between $\odot(APQ)$ and $\odot(OBC)$ lies on the A-symmedian of $\triangle ABC.$
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jayme
9775 posts
#4 • 3 Y
Y by Adventure10, Mango247, ehuseyinyigit
Dear Mathlinkers,
this is just an observation...
Sometimes when a relation is given between two points in a triangle, we forget to present a geometrical construction of these two points... If yes, we will observed that we can have more than a solution...
Sincerely
Jean-Louis
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TelvCohl
2312 posts
#5 • 3 Y
Y by ILIILIIILIIIIL, enhanced, Adventure10
jayme wrote:
Dear Mathlinkers,
this is just an observation...
Sometimes when a relation is given between two points in a triangle, we forget to present a geometrical construction of these two points... If yes, we will observed that we can have more than a solution...
Sincerely
Jean-Louis

It's not hard to find the construction of $ P $ and $ Q $ . From the condition (the center of $ \odot (APQ) $ lie on A-altitude) we know $ PQ $ is anti-parallel to $ BC $ WRT $ \angle A $ . From $ BP \cdot CQ=AP \cdot AQ $ we get there exist a point $ R $ on $ BC $ such that $ RP \parallel AC $ and $ RQ \parallel AB $ . Notice that $ AR $ pass through the midpoint of $ PQ $ , so $ AR $ is A-symmedian of $ \triangle ABC $ , hence we get the construction of $ P $ and $ Q $ as following :

1. Let $ R $ be the intersection of A-symmedian of $ \triangle ABC $ with $ BC $ .
2. Let $ P \in AB, Q \in AC $ such that $ RP \parallel AC, RQ \parallel AB $ .
______________________________________________________________________________________
Actually, the tangent point of $ \odot (OBC) $ and $ \odot (APQ) $ is the projection of $ O $ on A-symmedian of $ \triangle ABC $ :)
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jayme
9775 posts
#6 • 2 Y
Y by junioragd, Adventure10
Dear,
Thank for your precise answer correponding to the problem...
I was just speaking about only on the relation BP.CQ = AP. AQ which conduct more than one solution par P and Q...
Now with the restriction of the problem, it is OK.
Sincerely
Jean-Louis
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drmzjoseph
445 posts
#7 • 5 Y
Y by kun1417, FISHMJ25, mijail, Adventure10, Mango247
Let $X$ be point such that $APXQ$ is an parallelogram $\Rightarrow \frac{PB}{PX}=\frac{QX}{QC} \Rightarrow \triangle BPX \sim \triangle XQC \Rightarrow \angle BXP= \angle XCQ \Rightarrow B,X$ and $C$ are collinear.
Easy see that $\angle APQ = \angle BCA \Rightarrow BPQC$ is cyclical, If $Z$ is Miquel point of $\triangle ABC$ (Points $P,Q,X$) then $2\angle BAC=\angle BZC=\angle BOC$ and $\angle BXP=\angle BZP=\angle BCA=\angle QPA=\angle PQX =\angle PQZ + \angle ZCB$ Then $Z$ is tangency point of $\odot (BOC)$ and $\odot (PAQ)$
This post has been edited 1 time. Last edited by drmzjoseph, Apr 25, 2015, 4:56 PM
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drmzjoseph
445 posts
#9 • 2 Y
Y by Adventure10, Mango247
Similar problem
Source: ONEM - Peru 2014, problem 4 - category 3

Let $ABC$ be an acute-angle triangle with circumcenter $O$, if $D,E,F$ lies on the sides $BC, CA$ and $AB$ respectively, such that $BDEF$ is a parallelogram. Suppose that $DF^2=AE.EC < \frac{AC^2}{4}$.
Prove that $\odot (AOC)$ and $\odot (DBF)$ are tangents

Remark
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navredras
26 posts
#10 • 2 Y
Y by Adventure10, Mango247
drmzjoseph wrote:
Let $X$ be point such that $APXQ$ is an parallelogram $\Rightarrow \frac{PB}{PX}=\frac{QX}{QC} \Rightarrow \triangle BPX \sim \triangle XQC \Rightarrow \angle BXP= \angle XCQ \Rightarrow B,X$ and $C$ are collinear.
Easy see that $\angle APQ = \angle BCA \Rightarrow BPQC$ is cyclical, If $Z$ is Miquel point of $\triangle ABC$ (Points $P,Q,X$) then $2\angle BAC=\angle BZC=\angle BOC$ and $\angle BXP=\angle BZP=\angle BCA=\angle QPA=\angle PQX =\angle PQZ + \angle ZCB$ Then $Z$ is tangency point of $\odot (BOC)$ and $\odot (PAQ)$

Why is $ \angle APQ=\angle BCA $ and how the last equality ( $ \angle BXP=\angle PQZ + \angle ZCB $ helps us to determinate that $ Z $ is the point of tangency?
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drmzjoseph
445 posts
#11 • 1 Y
Y by Adventure10
navredras wrote:
drmzjoseph wrote:
Let $X$ be point such that $APXQ$ is an parallelogram $\Rightarrow \frac{PB}{PX}=\frac{QX}{QC} \Rightarrow \triangle BPX \sim \triangle XQC \Rightarrow \angle BXP= \angle XCQ \Rightarrow B,X$ and $C$ are collinear.
Easy see that $\angle APQ = \angle BCA \Rightarrow BPQC$ is cyclical, If $Z$ is Miquel point of $\triangle ABC$ (Points $P,Q,X$) then $2\angle BAC=\angle BZC=\angle BOC$ and $\angle BXP=\angle BZP=\angle BCA=\angle QPA=\angle PQX =\angle PQZ + \angle ZCB$ Then $Z$ is tangency point of $\odot (BOC)$ and $\odot (PAQ)$

Why is $ \angle APQ=\angle BCA $ and how the last equality ( $ \angle BXP=\angle PQZ + \angle ZCB $ helps us to determinate that $ Z $ is the point of tangency?

Hello, thanks for read my solution.
1. If $O_1$ is the circumcenter of $\triangle PAQ \Rightarrow \angle APQ=90^{\circ} - \angle O_1AQ= \angle BCA$
2, $\angle PZB =\angle PQZ + \angle ZCB$ i.e. $\odot (PZQ)$ and $\odot (BZC)$ are tangents (If we drawing a line tangent to $\odot (PZQ)$ is easy with angles see that is tangent to $\odot (BZC)$ too)
This post has been edited 1 time. Last edited by drmzjoseph, Apr 26, 2015, 12:12 AM
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anantmudgal09
1979 posts
#12 • 1 Y
Y by Adventure10
Let $F$ be the point such that $\triangle FAB \sim \triangle FCA.$ Note that $$\frac{BP}{AP}=\frac{AQ}{CQ} \Longrightarrow F \in \odot (APQ).$$Let $AH$ be the $A$ altitude and $D$ be the antipode of $O$ in $\odot (BOC)$. Let $I, O'$ be the centres of $(I)$ and $\odot (BOC)$. Since $A, F, D$ are collinear and $AH \parallel OD$ we have $$\angle AFI=\angle FAH=\angle DAH=\angle ADO=\angle DFO'$$so $I, F, O'$ are collinear, establishing the tangency.
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jayme
9775 posts
#13 • 1 Y
Y by Adventure10
Dear Mathlinkers,

http://jl.ayme.pagesperso-orange.fr/Docs/Le%20produit%20AB.AC.pdf p. 20...

Sincerely
Jean-Louis
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Devastator
348 posts
#14 • 2 Y
Y by Adventure10, egxa
Here's my solution
When is Cytus 2 version 2.4 coming out anyway I wanna know what happens to PAFF............
This post has been edited 8 times. Last edited by Devastator, Jul 2, 2019, 11:30 AM
Reason: Yeet
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Math-Shinai
396 posts
#15
Y by
Let the tangents at $B,C$ wrt to $(ABC)$ meet at $T$. Let $AT$ meet $(BOC)$ again at $Y$, it is well known that $Y$ is the center of the spiral similarity taking $AB$ to $CA.$ Proof

Now, the problem condition implies that this spiral similarity also sends $P$ to $Q.$ It follows that
\[\angle APY = \angle YQC = 180 - \angle AQY\]thus $A, P, Q, Y$ are concyclic.

It remains to show that $Y$ is the only common point between these two circles. Call the center of $(APQ)$ $X$ and the center of $(BOC)$ $K.$ We have
\[\angle XYA = \angle XAY = \angle KTY = \angle KYT\]which implies that $X, Y, T$ are collinear, and the desired result follows.
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jj_ca888
2726 posts
#16
Y by
Let $K$ be the midpoint of the symmedian chord, and $M, N$ be the midpoints of $AB, AC$. I claim $K \in (APQ)$. It suffices to show $K$ is the center of spiral similarity sending $PM \to QN$ and thus $PQ \to MN$. This is easy; clearly $AMKON$ is cyclic with diameter $AO$, so $\angle PMK = \angle QNK$. Furthermore,\[\frac{KM}{KN} = \frac{\delta(K, AB)}{\delta(K, AC)} = \frac{AB}{AC} = \frac{AB(\tfrac12 - t)}{AC(\tfrac12 - t)} = \frac{PM}{QN}\]where $t$ is $\tfrac{PB}{AB} = \tfrac{AQ}{AC}$ by the length condition, as desired.

$K$ clearly lies on $(BOC)$, so the tangency point must be at $K$. Indeed, if we let $O_1$ be the center of the circle $I$, $O_2$ be the center of $(BOC)$, and $B'$ be the $B$ antipode in $(BOC)$, note that\[\angle O_1KA = \angle O_1AK = \angle BB'K = \angle B'KO_2\]where $AK$ clearly passes through $B'$ since $AK$ is a symmedian. Thus, $O_1, K, O_2$ are collinear so $I, (BOC)$ tangent at $K$.

Edit: I am stupid. The spiral-sim part can be simplified. It is well known that $K$ is the center of spiral similarity sending $BA$ to $AC$, and this spiral-sim simultaneously sends $P \to Q$ and $M \to N$ due to ratios. This finishes.
This post has been edited 4 times. Last edited by jj_ca888, Mar 6, 2021, 8:24 PM
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IAmTheHazard
5001 posts
#17
Y by
Let $D$ be the center of spiral similarity sending $\overline{BA}$ to $\overline{AC}$, i.e. the so-called "$A$-dumpty point". Recall that $D$ lies on $(BOC)$ and that $\overline{AD}$ is a symmedian in $\triangle ABC$: both of these facts follow from angle chasing. Since the given condition is equivalent to $\frac{BP}{AP}=\frac{AQ}{QC}$, this spiral similarity also sends $P$ to $Q$. Therefore $D$ is also the intersection of $(APQ)$ and the circle passing through $B,P$ tangent to $\overline{PQ}$ (as well as the intersection of $(APQ)$ and the circle passing through $C,Q$ tangent to $\overline{PQ}$): in particular, $APQD$ is cyclic. I now claim that $D$ is the tangency point.

Now, note that if the center of $I$ varies (not subject to the length condition) $\overline{PQ}$ is parallel to a fixed line, and by considering the case where the center is the midpoint of $\overline{AH}$ (where $H$ is the orthocenter as usual) we find that $\overline{PQ}$ is antiparallel to $\overline{BC}$ in general, i.e. $\triangle APQ \sim \triangle ACB$. Therefore, the tangent to $(APQ)$ at $A$ is parallel to $\overline{BC}$ If $T$ is the intersection of the tangents to $(ABC)$ at $B$ and $C$, then $T$ lies on $(BOC)$ and the tangent to $(BOC)$ at $T$ is parallel to $\overline{BC}$ as well. Hence we just need to prove the following.

Claim: Let $\ell_1,\ell_2$ be (distinct) parallel lines. Let $A \in \ell_1,B \in \ell_2$, and $X$ lie on segment $\overline{AB}$. Let $\omega_1$ be tangent to $\ell_1$ at $A$ and pass through $X$, and $\omega_2$ be tangent to $\ell_2$ at $B$ and pass through $X$. Then in fact $\omega_1,\omega_2$ are tangent at $X$.
Proof: Let $O_1,O_2$ be the centers of $\omega_1,\omega_2$ respectively. We have $\angle(\ell_1,\overline{AB})=\angle(\ell_2, \overline{AB})$, so $\angle AO_1X=\angle BO_2X$. Thus the homothety at $D$ sending $A$ to $B$ also sends $O_1$ to $O_2$, hence $X$ lies on $\overline{O_1O_2}$ which implies the desired result. $\blacksquare$
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Sg48
27 posts
#18
Y by
Let $E$ be the center of $I$, $F$ be the reflection of $A$ in $E$. $D$ be the foot of altitude from $A$ to $BC$, and $X$ be the circumcenter of triangle $BOC$
Let $AE = x \implies AF = 2x \implies AP = 2xsinB$
Now $4x^2 sinBsinC = (b-2xsinC)(c-2xsinB) = 4(RsinB - xsinC)(RsinC-xsinB)$
$\implies x= R\frac{sinB sinC}{sin^2 B + sin^2 C}$
Also $OX = \frac{OB}{2sin(90-A)} = \frac{R}{2cosA} $
Let $M$ and $N$ be the feet of perpendicular from $O$ to $BC$ and $AD$ and $L$ be the foot of perpendicular from $X$ to $AD$
Now $OM = RcosA \implies EL = AD+DL-AE = AD-AE+MX = 2RsinBsinC - \frac{Rcos2A}{2cosA}  - x$
Also $LX = MD = 2RsinBcosC - RsinA = Rsin(B-C)$
Now we know $EX^2 = EL^2 + LX^2$ simplifying which :blush: we find $EX = x+ \frac{R}{2cosA}$ which is the sum of the 2 radii
Hence proved
This post has been edited 5 times. Last edited by Sg48, Oct 31, 2023, 10:11 PM
Reason: typo
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OronSH
1728 posts
#19
Y by
After inversion at $A$ it suffices to prove that for $\triangle ABC$ if $P,Q$ are points on $AB,AC$ with $\frac{AC}{AQ}+\frac{AB}{AP}=1$ and $PQ \perp AO$ then $PQ$ is tangent to the reflection of $(ABC)$ across $BC.$

We claim that the desired tangency point is $A',$ the reflection of $A$ across the midpoint $M$ of $BC.$ It is clear that this point is on the reflection of $(ABC)$ across $BC.$ Furthermore, if this circle has center $O'$ then we see $O'A' \parallel AO \perp PQ,$ so it suffices to show that $P,A',Q$ collinear. To do this, consider the midpoints $P',Q'$ of $AP',AQ'.$ It suffices to show that $P',M,Q'$ collinear.

We have $\frac{AC}{AQ'}+\frac{AB}{AP'}=2,$ so $2AP'\cdot AQ'=AB\cdot AQ'+AC\cdot AP'.$ This rearranges to $AP'\cdot AQ'-AP'\cdot AC=-AP'\cdot AQ'+AB\cdot AQ',$ or $\frac{AP'}{AQ'}=-\frac{AP'-AB}{AQ'-AC},$ or $\frac{AP'}{P'B}\cdot \frac{CQ'}{Q'A}=-1.$ Thus from $BM=MC$ we finish by Menelaus.
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MathLuis
1488 posts
#20 • 1 Y
Y by dolphinday
Solved with dolphinday
Let $D_O$ the A-dumpty point, note that $D_O$ is basically the Isogonal conjugate of the A-humpty point, from there you can derive basic propeties of it such as $D_O$ lies in $(BOC)$ and $(AO)$, and also that it is center of spiral sim sending $AB \to CA$, hence we notice that by the ratios given it sends $BA \to PQ \to AC$, hence by degenerate complete quad miquel propeties (or just angle chase) we see that $D_O$ lies in $I$, let $O'$ the center of $I$ and $O_1$ the center of $(BOC)$, let $AD_O \cap (BOC)=T$, note that $AD_O$ is symedian thus $T$ is the point where the tangents from $B,C$ to $(ABC)$ meet at, let $D_OO \cap AO'=X$, then $X$ also lies on $I$ since $\angle AD_OO=90$, Note that $O'$ is midpoint of $AX$ and $O_1$ is midpoint of $OT$, since triangles $\triangle AD_OX$ and $\triangle TD_OO$ share the same 90 degree angle we have that $O', D_O, O_1$ are colinear thus $I$ is tangent to $(BOC)$ at $D_O$, thus we are done :cool:
This post has been edited 2 times. Last edited by MathLuis, Feb 12, 2024, 5:18 PM
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HamstPan38825
8857 posts
#21
Y by
It is well-known that the given product condition implies that there exists a point $E$ on $\overline{BC}$ with $APEQ$ a parallelogram. (To see this, just note that for this point $E$, the triangles $BPE$ and $EQC$ are similar.)

Now, I claim that $(APQ)$, $(BPE)$, $(CQE)$, $(BOC)$ concur at a point $X$ on $\overline{AF}$. To see this, let $X = (BFE) \cap (CQE)$ and note that $X$ lies on $(APQ)$ by Miquel point and $\angle BQF + \angle CPF = \angle BOC$, so $X$ lies on $(BOC)$.

Next, notice that as the circumcenter $O_1$ of $(APQ)$ lies on the $A$-altitude, it follows by isogonal conjugates that triangles $APQ$ and $ACB$ are similar, so $BPQC$ is cyclic. Then $A$ is the radical center of $(BEP)$, $(CEQ)$, and $(BPQC)$, so $A$ lies on $\overline{XF}$.

Finally, notice that $$\angle AXC = \angle C = \angle APE = \angle APX + \angle XPE = \angle XBC + \angle XAQ,$$so the tangent to $(BOC)$ at $X$ coincides with the tangent to $(APQ)$ at $X$. It follows that the two circles are tangent to each other.
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shendrew7
793 posts
#22
Y by
Start by constructing $R$ such that $APRQ$ is a parallelogram:
  • The length condition along with $\angle RPB = \angle CQR = \angle A$ gives us $\triangle RPB \sim \triangle CQR$, which can be further be used to show that $R$ lies on $BC$, with
    \[\angle QRC + \angle PRQ + \angle BRP = \angle B + \angle A + \angle C = 180.\]
  • Consider the Miquel point $M$ of $\triangle ABC$ wrt $PQR$. Notice $M \in (BOC)$, as
    \[\angle BMC = \angle BPR + \angle CQR = 2 \angle A = \angle BOC.\]
  • We also have $M \in AR$, as
    \[\angle AMP = \angle AQP = \angle B = \angle RMP.\]
At this point, we deduce $AP$ is a symmedian as it bisects the antiparallel $PQ$, so it passes through the antipode of $O$ on $(BOC)$, and thus the two desired circles are tangent from homothety. $\blacksquare$
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MagicalToaster53
159 posts
#23
Y by
Let $\omega$ be the circumcircle of $\triangle BOC$, and let $\Gamma$ be the circumcircle of $\triangle APQ$. Let $M$ be the midpoint of arc $\widehat{BC}$. Then we make the following claim:

Claim: $\triangle XBA \sim \triangle XAC$, and as $BP/PA = AQ/QC$, we must have $\triangle XDP = \triangle XAQ$, and $\triangle XPA \sim \triangle XQC$.
Proof: Let $\angle XBO = \alpha$. Observe $XM$ bisects $\angle BXC$, so that $\angle BXM = \angle A$, and so $\angle BXA = \angle AXC$. Now
\begin{align*}
\angle XBA &= \angle B - \angle XBC \\
&= \angle B - (\alpha + \angle OBC) \\
&= \angle B - (\alpha + 90^{\circ} - \angle A) \\
&= 180^{\circ} - \angle C -\alpha - 90^{\circ} \\
&= 90^{\circ} - \angle C - \alpha. 
\end{align*}Similarly,
\begin{align*}
\angle XAC &= 180^{\circ} - (\angle AXC + \angle XCA) \\
&= 180^{\circ} - (180^{\circ} - \angle A + \alpha + 90^{\circ} - \angle B) \\
&= \angle A - \alpha - 90^{\circ} + \angle B \\
&= 90^{\circ} - \angle C - \alpha,
\end{align*}so that $\triangle XBA \sim \triangle XAC$. $\square$

We now make another claim:

Claim: $X$ lies on $\Gamma$.
Proof: Observe that \[\angle PXA = 180^{\circ} - \angle PAX - \angle XPA, \text{ and } \angle QXA = 180^{\circ} - \angle XQA - \angle QAX = \angle XQC - \angle QAX.\]Hence,
\begin{align*}
\angle PXQ &= \angle PXA + \angle QXA \\
&= (180^{\circ} - \angle PAX - \angle XPA) + (\angle XQC - \angle QAX) \\
&= 180^{\circ} - \angle A,
\end{align*}as desired. $\square$

We now finally show that the circumcenters of $\Gamma, \omega$ ($O_{\Gamma}$ and $O$ respectively), are collinear with $X$: $\angle MXO = \angle XMO$, and as the altitude from $A$ and line $OM$ are parallel, and further as $A, X, M$ are by definition collinear, then
\begin{align*}
\angle O_{\Gamma}XA &= \angle O_{\Gamma}AX \\
&= \angle AMO \\
&= \angle XMO \\
&= MXO,
\end{align*}so that $O_{\Gamma}, X, O$ are collinear as $A, X, M$, as desired. $\blacksquare$
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cursed_tangent1434
583 posts
#24 • 2 Y
Y by ihategeo_1969, dolphinday
A really beautiful problem. Once you figure out how to deal with the really weird angle condition, the rest is standard. We start off with the following observation.

Claim : Points $B,C,P$ and $Q$ lie on the same circle.

Proof : Simply notice that
$$\angle PQC = \angle PQK + \angle KQC = \angle PAK + 90 = 90 +\angle BAD = 180 - \angle DBA = 180 - \angle PBC$$which implies our claim.

Then, let $F$ be the point such that $AQFP$ is a parallelogram. Let $L= (BPF) \cap (FQC)$. Then, we have the following key claim.

Claim : Point $F$ in fact lies on the line $\overline{BC}$.

Proof : Let $F'$ be the point on $BC$ such that $PF' \parallel AB$. Then, notice that since $\triangle BPF' \sim \triangle BAC$,
$$\frac{BP}{PF'}=\frac{AB}{AC}$$which gives us that
$$\frac{AC}{AQ}= 1+ \frac{CQ}{AQ}=1+\frac{AP}{BP}=\frac{AB}{BP}=\frac{AC}{PF'}$$Thus, we require $AF'=AQ$ and thus $APF'Q$ is indeed a parallelogram.

Now, consider the following.
\begin{align*}
    \angle BCF &= \angle BPF = \angle{A}\\
    \angle CLF &= \angle CQF = \angle A\\
    \angle BLC &= 2\angle A = \angle BOC
\end{align*}which means that $L$ must lie on $(BOC)$. Also,
\begin{align*}
    \angle LPA &= 180 - \angle LPB\\
    &= \angle LFB\\
    &= 180 - \angle LFC\\
    &= \angle LQC
\end{align*}and thus $L$ lies on $(APQ)$ as well. But then,
\begin{align*}
    \angle ALP &= \angle AQP = \angle B\\
    \angle PLF &= 180 - \angle B
\end{align*}So clearly $L$ also lies on $AF$. Let $T$ lie on the line $\ell$ such that $\ell$ is tangent to $(APQ)$ at $L$. Then, $\angle TLQ = \angle LAQ$ which in turn gives
\begin{align*}
    \angle CLT &= \angle CLQ - \angle TLQ\\
    &= \angle QFC - (180 - \angle AFC - \angle C)\\
    &= \angle B + \angle C - \angle LFB\\
    &= 180 - \angle A - \angle LFB\\
    &= \angle BPL - \angle A\\
    &= \angle FPL\\
    &= \angle FBL\\
    &= \angle CBL
\end{align*}Therefore, $\ell$ is also tangent to $(BOC)$ at $L$. Thus, indeed $\omega$ is tangent to the circumcircle of $\triangle BOC$ as required.
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ItsBesi
141 posts
#25 • 1 Y
Y by MLN_KD
Here is my solution:

Let $D$ be the feet of the altitude from $A$ to $BC$, and let $A'$ be a point on $AD$ such that $AA'$ is the diameter of $\omega$ , $\odot I=\omega$

$\textbf{Claim:}$ Points $B,P,Q$ and $C$ are concyclic.

$\textbf{Proof:}$
Proof:

Let $Q_A$ be t the $A$-dumpty point of the triangle $\triangle ABC$

$\textbf{Claim:}$ $Q_A \in \omega$

$\textbf{Proof:}$
Proof:

$\textbf{Claim:}$ $Q_A \in \odot ( BOC)$

$\textbf{Proof:}$
Proof:


$\textbf{Claim:}$ $\omega$ is tangent to the circumcircle of triangle $\triangle BOC$

$\textbf{Proof:}$
Proof:
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kotmhn
58 posts
#26
Y by
By the ratio condition, we get that the lines parallel to $AB,AC$ through $P,Q$ respectively intersect on $BC$ can at $R$.
Let $X = \omega \cap (BPR)$ by miquel's theorem, $X \in (CQR)$
\[ \angle BXC = \angle BXR + \angle CXR = \angle BPR + \angle CQR = 2A \]Also, $\angle BOC = 2A$; hence, $B,X,O,C$ are concyclic.

Next, observe that
\[ \angle AXP = \angle AXQ = B = 180 - \angle RXP \]Hence $X \in AR$
Finally as $APRQ$ is a parallelogram and $AR$ bisects $PQ$ which is antiparallel to $BC$ we get $AR$ is the $A$ symmedian. Hence it goes through the antipode of $O$ wrt $(BOC)$ and hence we are done by by homothety.
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ihatemath123
3441 posts
#27 • 1 Y
Y by OronSH
Let $D$ be the $A$-dumpty point in $\triangle ABC$. We claim this is the desired tangency point.

The length condition implies that there exists a point $R$ on $\overline{BC}$ such that $APRQ$ is a parallelogram. This in turn implies that the midpoint of $\overline{PQ}$ lies on $\overline{MN}$, where $M$ and $N$ are the midpoints of $\overline{AB}$ and $\overline{AC}$.

Claim: The Miquel point of the concave quadrilateral $MPQN$ is $D$.
Proof: Since $D$ is the center of spiral similarity from $\overline{AB}$ to $\overline{CA}$, we just need to show that $AMPB \sim CNQA$. We just need to show $\tfrac{MP}{AB} = \tfrac{QN}{AC}$, which combined with the given length condition, implies the similarity. But this is just Menealus on tranversal $MN$ WRT $\triangle APQ$.

So, $APQD$ is cyclic. Let $T$ be the intersection of the tangents to $(ABC)$ at $B$ and $C$. Then, $A$, $D$ and $T$ are collinear. The fact that the center of $(APQ)$ lies on the $A$-altitude implies that $A$ is at the ``top" of $(APQ)$. Meanwhile, $T$ is at the bottom of $(BOC)$, so the tangency follows.
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thdnder
194 posts
#28
Y by
By easy angle chasing, $\triangle APQ \sim \triangle ACB. \implies \frac{AP}{AQ} = \frac{AC}{AB}$. Using the condition $AP \cdot AQ = BP \cdot CQ$, we can easily see that $AP = \frac{AB \cdot AC^2}{AB^2 + AC^2}$ and $AQ = \frac{AB^2 \cdot AC}{AB^2 + AC^2}$. Now, $\sqrt{bc}$ inversion sends $(BOC)$ to $(BHC)$, where $H$ is the orthocenter. Let $K$ be a point such that $BACK$ is a parallelogramm. Then, it's clear that $BHCK$ is cyclic. Let $P'$ and $Q'$ be the image of $P$ and $Q$ under the inversion. Then, $AP' = \frac{AB\cdot AC}{AP} = AC + \frac{AB^2}{AC}. \implies CP' = \frac{AB^2}{AC}$. Note that $\frac{KC}{CP'} = \frac{AB}{\frac{AB^2}{AC}} = \frac{AC}{AB}$, so $\triangle KCP' \sim \triangle CAB. \implies KP'$ is tangent to $(BHC)$. Similarly, $KQ'$ is tangent to $(BHC)$. Since $\angle Q'KB + \angle BKC + \angle CKP' = 180^{\circ}$, it's clear that $P'Q'$ is tangent to $(BHC)$. Hence, $(APQ)$ is tangent to $(BOC)$. $\blacksquare$
This post has been edited 1 time. Last edited by thdnder, Feb 10, 2025, 10:07 AM
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Retemoeg
55 posts
#29
Y by
Super lengthy but very elementary proof:
Let the two tangents from B, C of (O) intersect at S, AS cuts BC at D. Denote M the midpoint of BC, G the antipode of A wrt (O), T the antipode of A wrt (I), F the orthogonal projection from O onto AS. AS meets (O) again at R, OS meet (O) again at U), AD intersects PQ at L. Set BC = a, CA = b, AB = c.
Notice that, AD is the symmedian line in triangle ABC, thus it follows that DC/DB = b^2/c^2. Now, notice how if we construct an inscribed parallelogram AP'DQ' inside triangle ABC, let I' be the circumcenter of triangle AP'Q', then we'd have that AP'/BP' = CD/BD = CQ'/AQ'. Then again, AP'/AB = CD/CB = b^2/b^2 + c^2, thus AP'/AC = bc/b^2 + c^2. Similarly, we can point out that AQ'/AB = bc/b^2 + c^2, thus triangles AP'Q' and ACB are similar, implying that I' lies on the altitude from A in ABC. Because of the uniqueness of points P and Q in ABC, with the arguments above we can rewrite the problem statement as follow:
"Given triangle ABC with circumcenter O and the symmedian line AD (D lies on BC). Construct inscribed parallelogram APDQ in triangle ABC, prove that (APQ) is tangent to (BOC)".

Since F lies on (BOC), if O, F, T are collinear we should be done.
From the above arguments, figures APTQL and ACGBM are similar. Furthermore, note that OM.OS = OC^2 = OA^2. So:
AT/OS = AT/AG.AG/OS = AL/AM.AG/OS = AD/2AM.2AO/OS = AD/AM.AO/OS = AD/AM.AM/AS = AD/AS. So AT/OS = AD/AS
Now, since AT is parallel to OS, proving that AT/OS = AF/SF, or in other words showing that AD/AS = AF/SF should suffice.
That being said, the line through A parallel to BC intersect (O) twice at J. JM cuts AS at R'. Then, since triangles OAM and OSA are similar, we have that <OJM = <OAM = <R'SM, so R'OJS is concyclic, thus MR'.MJ = MO.MS = MB/MC or R' lies on (O) thus R coincide with R'. Then, we should have that <AMO = <JMO = <SMR, so <AMD = <RMD thus MD and MS are internal and external bisectors of angle AMR, resp.
Then, AD/AS = RD/RS. Now, by power of a point: DR.DA = DB.DC = DF.DS so DR/DS = DF/DA implying RD/RS = FD/FA. Therefore, AD/AS = FD/FA.
Finally, if we let E be the perpidencular foot from O to AM, H be the perpidencular foot from A to BC. We should have that <AEF = <AOF = 90 - <FAO = 90 - <SAM - <MAO = 90 - <SAM - <ASO = 90 - <SAM - <HAD = 90 - <HAM = <AMD. So EF is parallel to DM, thus showing that FA/FA = EM/EA = FA/FS
With that, we now have that AD/AS = FA/FS, as desired.
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Double07
74 posts
#30 • 3 Y
Y by bo18, HotSinglesInYourArea, Calamarul
Here is a hybrid solution, but mostly complex.

Let $D$ be the intersection of the tangents from $B$ and $C$ to the circumcircle of $ABC$, $E$ be the foot of the $A$-symmedian and $X$ the intersection of the $A$-symmedian with the circumcircle of $ABC$.

Consider $O, O_1, T$ the centers of circles $(ABC), (BOC), (APQ)$.

Claim 1: $PE\parallel AC$ and $QE\parallel AB$.
Proof:
By a symmetry across the angle bisector of $\widehat{BAC}$, since $O_2$ lies on the $A$-altitude, we know that $B, C, P, Q$ are concyclic, so, by PoP we have $AP\cdot AB=AQ\cdot AC\implies \dfrac{AP}{b}=\dfrac{AQ}{c}=r\implies AP=br, AQ=cr$.

$AP\cdot AQ=BP\cdot CQ=(c-AP)(b-AQ)=bc-bAP-cAQ+AP\cdot AQ\implies bAP+cAQ=bc\implies r(b^2+c^2)=bc\implies $
$r=\dfrac{bc}{b^2+c^2}\implies AP=\dfrac{b^2c}{b^2+c^2}\implies BP=\dfrac{c^3}{b^2+c^2}\implies \dfrac{AP}{PB}=\dfrac{b^2}{c^2}=\dfrac{CE}{EB}\implies PE\parallel AC$, and similarly $QE\parallel AB$.

From here, everything is in complex numbers. Take $(ABC)$ the unit circle.

We claim that the tangency point of the two circles is the $K$, $A$-Dumpty point of $\Delta ABC$.

To prove this, we will do the following:
1. Consider $P$ and $Q$ on sides $AB$ and $AC$ such that $PE\parallel AC$ and $QE\parallel AB$.
2. Compute $T$ as the intersection of the segment bisector of $[AK]$ and the $A$-altitude.
3. Prove that $T$ is the center of $(APQ)$.
4. Prove that $T, K, O_1$ are collinear.

Now, let's firstly compute $D, X, K, E, P, Q$:

$d=\dfrac{2bc}{b+c}$

$\overline{x}=\dfrac{1}{x}$

$\dfrac{a-x}{\overline{a}-\overline{x}}=\dfrac{a-d}{\overline{a}-\overline{d}}\iff -ax=a\cdot\dfrac{ab+ac-2bc}{b+c-2a}\implies x=\dfrac{ab+ac-2bc}{2a-b-c}$.

$K$ is the foot of altitude from $O$ on the $A$-symmedian, so $K$ is the midpoint of $AX\implies k=\dfrac{a+x}{2}=\dfrac{a^2-bc}{2a-b-c}$

$E=AX\cap BC\implies e=\dfrac{bc(a+x)-ax(b+c)}{bc-ax}=\dfrac{bc(2a^2-2bc)-(ab+ac-2bc)(ab+ac)}{bc(2a-b-c)-a(ab+ac-2bc)}=\dfrac{a^2b^2+a^2c^2+2b^2c^2-2ab^2c-2abc^2}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}$.

$P\in AB\implies\overline{p}=\dfrac{a+b-p}{ab}$.

$EP\parallel AC\implies \dfrac{e-p}{\overline{e}-\overline{p}}=-ac\implies e-p=-ac\overline{e}+ac\cdot\dfrac{a+b-p}{ab}\implies eb-bp=-abc\overline{e}+ac+bc-cp\implies$
$\implies (c-b)p=ac+bc-b\cdot\dfrac{a^2b^2+a^2c^2+2b^2c^2-2ab^2c-2abc^2}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}-abc\cdot\dfrac{\dfrac{c^2+b^2+2a^2-2ab-2ac}{a^2b^2c^2}}{\dfrac{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}{a^2b^2c^2}}=$
$=\dfrac{(c-b)(a^3c+a^2b^2+b^2c^2-2a^2bc-ab^2c)}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}\implies p=\dfrac{a^3c+a^2b^2+b^2c^2-2a^2bc-ab^2c}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}$.

Similarly $q=\dfrac{a^3b+a^2c^2+b^2c^2-2a^2bc-abc^2}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}$.

Now compute $T$:

$AT\perp BC\implies t=a-\dfrac{bc}{a}+bc\overline{t}$.

$TA=TK\implies |t-a|^2=|t-k|^2\implies t\overline{t}-\dfrac{t}{a}-a\overline{t}+1=t\overline{t}-t\overline{k}-\overline{t}k+k\overline{k}\implies\dfrac{t}{a}+a\overline{t}+k\overline{k}=t\overline{k}+\overline{t}k+1\implies$
$\implies \dfrac{a-\dfrac{bc}{a}+bc\overline{t}}{a}+a\overline{t}+\dfrac{a^2-bc}{2a-b-c}\cdot\dfrac{\dfrac{bc-a^2}{a^2bc}}{\dfrac{2bc-ab-ac}{abc}}=\left(a-\dfrac{bc}{a}+bc\overline{t}\right)\cdot\dfrac{bc-a^2}{a(2bc-ab-ac)}+\overline{t}\cdot\dfrac{a^2-bc}{2a-b-c}+1\implies$
$\implies 1-\dfrac{bc}{a^2}+\dfrac{bc}{a}\overline{t}+a\overline{t}+\dfrac{bc-a^2}{a(2bc-ab-ac)}\cdot\dfrac{a^2-bc}{2a-b-c}=\dfrac{a^2-bc+abc\overline{t}}{a}\cdot\dfrac{bc-a^2}{a(2bc-ab-ac)}+\overline{t}\dfrac{a^2-bc}{2a-b-c}+1\implies$
$\implies -bc(2a-b-c)(2bc-ab-ac)+abc\overline{t}(2a-b-c)(2bc-ab-ac)+a^3\overline{t}(2a-b-c)(2bc-ab-ac)-a(bc-a^2)^2=$
$=(a^2-bc+abc\overline{t})(bc-a^2)(2a-b-c)+\overline{t}(a^2-bc)a^2(2bc-ab-ac)\implies$
$\implies \overline{t}a\Big(bc(2a-b-c)(2bc-ab-ac)+a^2(2bc-ab-ac)(2a-b-c)-a(a^2-bc)(2bc-ab-ac)-bc(bc-a^2)(2a-b-c)\Big)=$
$=bc(2a-b-c)(2bc-ab-ac)+a(bc-a^2)^2-(bc-a^2)^2(2a-b-c)\implies$
$\implies \overline{t}a\cdot\Big(-(a-b)(a-c)(a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc)\Big)=-(a-b)(a-c)(a^3+b^2c+bc^2-3abc)\implies$
$\implies \overline{t}=\dfrac{a^3+b^2c+bc^2-3abc}{a(a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc)}\implies$
$\implies t=\dfrac{b^2c^2+a^3b+a^3c-3a^2bc}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}$.

Now to prove that $T$ is the center of $(APQ)$:

Due to symetry, it is enough to prove that $TA=TP\iff |t-a|=|t-p|$.

$t-a=\dfrac{b^2c^2+a^3b+a^3c-3a^2bc}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}-a=\dfrac{b^2c^2-ab^2c-abc^2+a^2bc}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}=\dfrac{bc(a-b)(a-c)}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}$

$t-p=\dfrac{b^2c^2+a^3b+a^3c-3a^2bc}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}-\dfrac{a^3c+a^2b^2+b^2c^2-2a^2bc-ab^2c}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}=\dfrac{a^3b+a^2bc-a^2b^2-a^2bc}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}=$
$=\dfrac{ab(a-b)(a-c)}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}$.

Since $|a|=|b|=|c|=1$, we get $|t-a|=|t-p|$, and similarly $|t-a|=|t-q|$, so $T$ is the center of $(APQ)$.

Now we're just left to prove that circles $(APQ)$ and $BOC$ are tangent. Since it is well-known that $K$ belongs to $(BOC)$ and we've proven that $K$ also belongs to $(APQ)$, we just need to prove that $T, K, O_1$ are collinear.

This is equivallent to proving $\dfrac{t-o_1}{\overline{t}-\overline{o_1}}=\dfrac{k-o_1}{\overline{k}-\overline{o_1}}$.

To compute $o_1$, we just need to observe that $BD\perp OB$ and $CD \perp OC$, so $D\in(BOC)$ and the center of this circle is the midpoint of $OD$, so $q_i=\dfrac{d}{2}=\dfrac{bc}{b+c}$.

$t-o_1=\dfrac{b^2c^2+a^3b+a^3c-3a^2bc}{a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc}-\dfrac{bc}{b+c}=\dfrac{a(a^2b^2+a^2c^2+4b^2c^2+2a^2bc-4ab^2c-4abc^2)}{(b+c)(a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc)}=$
$=\dfrac{a(2bc-ab-ac)^2}{(b+c)(a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc)}$.

$\overline{t-o_1}=\dfrac{bc(2a-b-c)^2}{a(b+c)(a^2b+a^2c+b^2c+bc^2-4abc)}$.

So $\dfrac{t-o_1}{\overline{t}-\overline{o_1}}=\dfrac{a^2(ab+ac-2bc)^2}{bc(2a-b-c)^2}$.

$k-o_1=\dfrac{a^2-bc}{2a-b-c}-\dfrac{bc}{b+c}=\dfrac{a^2b+a^2c-2abc}{(b+c)(2a-b-c)}=\dfrac{a(ab+ac-2bc)}{(b+c)(2a-b-c)}$.

$\overline{k-o_1}=\dfrac{bc(b+c-2a)}{a(b+c)(2bc-ab-ac)}$.

So $\dfrac{k-o_1}{\overline{k}-\overline{o_1}}=\dfrac{a^2(ab+ac-2bc)^2)}{bc(2a-b-c)^2}=\dfrac{t-o_1}{\overline{t}-\overline{o_1}}$, so we're done.
This post has been edited 1 time. Last edited by Double07, Feb 11, 2025, 10:07 PM
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Ilikeminecraft
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Let $R$ be a point so that $APRQ$ is a parallelogram. From the length conditions, we have $R\in BC.$
Let $M$ be the miquel point of $ABC$ wrt $PQR.$
Clearly, $M\in(BOC)$ as $\angle BMC = \angle BMR + \angle RMC = \angle BPR + \angle RQC = 2\angle A = \angle BOC.$
Reflect $APQ$ across $\angle A$ bisector and we get that $P'Q'\parallel BC,$ and so $BPQC$ is cyclic.
Notice $AMR$ are collinear since $\angle AMR = \angle AMP + \angle  PMR = 180 - \angle ABC + \angle AQP = 180.$
Hence, $AR$ is symmedian.
Homothety at $M$ maps the "top" of $(APQ)$($A$) to the "bottom" of $(BOC)$(pole of $BC$), which finishes.
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