2000 AIME I Problems/Problem 3

Problem

In the expansion of $(ax + b)^{2000},$ where $a$ and $b$ are relatively prime positive integers, the coefficients of $x^{2}$ and $x^{3}$ are equal. Find $a + b$.

Solution

Using the binomial theorem, $\binom{2000}{1998} b^{1998}a^2 = \binom{2000}{1997}b^{1997}a^3 \Longrightarrow b=666a$.

Since $a$ and $b$ are positive relatively prime integers, $a=1$ and $b=666$, and $a+b=\boxed{667}$.

See also

2000 AIME I (ProblemsAnswer KeyResources)
Preceded by
Problem 2
Followed by
Problem 4
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All AIME Problems and Solutions

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