2022 AIME I Problems/Problem 2

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Problem

Find the three-digit positive integer $\underline{a}\,\underline{b}\,\underline{c}$ whose representation in base nine is $\underline{b}\,\underline{c}\,\underline{a}_{\,\text{nine}},$ where $a,$ $b,$ and $c$ are (not necessarily distinct) digits.

Solution

We are given that \[100a + 10b + c = 81b + 9c + a,\] which rearranges to \[99a = 71b + 8c.\] Taking both sides modulo $71,$ we have \begin{align*} 28a &\equiv 8c \pmod{71} \\ 7a &\equiv 2c \pmod{71}. \end{align*} The only solution occurs at $(a,c)=(2,7),$ from which $b=2.$

Therefore, the requested three-digit positive integer is $\underline{a}\,\underline{b}\,\underline{c}=\boxed{227}.$

~MRENTHUSIASM

Video Solution (Mathematical Dexterity

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5Y4bT5rL-s

See Also

2022 AIME I (ProblemsAnswer KeyResources)
Preceded by
Problem 1
Followed by
Problem 3
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
All AIME Problems and Solutions

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