1994 AIME Problems/Problem 3
Contents
[hide]Problem
The function has the property that, for each real number
If what is the remainder when is divided by ?
Solution 1
So, the remainder is .
Solution 2
Those familiar with triangular numbers and some of their properties will quickly recognize the equation given in the problem. It is well-known (and easy to show) that the sum of two consecutive triangular numbers is a perfect square; that is, where is the th triangular number.
Using this, as well as using the fact that the value of directly determines the value of and we conclude that for all odd and for all even where is a constant real number.
Since and we see that It follows that so the answer is .
See also
1994 AIME (Problems • Answer Key • Resources) | ||
Preceded by Problem 2 |
Followed by Problem 4 | |
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