IMO 1998

6 problems with complete solutions · Official problem paper (PDF)

  1. Problem 1

    In the convex quadrilateral \(ABCD\), the diagonals \(AC\) and \(BD\) are perpendicular and the opposite sides \(AB\) and \(DC\) are not parallel. Suppose that the point \(P\), where the perpendicular bisectors of \(AB\) and \(DC\) meet, is inside \(ABCD\). Prove that \(ABCD\) is a cyclic quadrilateral if and only if the triangles \(ABP\) and \(CDP\) have equal areas.

    Solution →

  2. Problem 2

    In a competition, there are \(a\) contestants and \(b\) judges, where \(b \geq 3\) is an odd integer. Each judge rates each contestant as either “pass” or “fail”. Suppose \(k\) is a number such that, for any two judges, their ratings coincide for at most \(k\) contestants. Prove that \(k/a \geq (b - 1)/(2b)\).

    Solution →

  3. Problem 3

    For any positive integer \(n\), let \(d(n)\) denote the number of positive divisors of \(n\) (including \(1\) and \(n\) itself). Determine all positive integers \(k\) such that \(d(n^2)/d(n) = k\) for some \(n\).

    Solution →

  4. Problem 4

    Determine all pairs \((a, b)\) of positive integers such that \(ab^2+b+7\) divides \(a^2b+a+b\).

    Solution →

  5. Problem 5

    Let \(I\) be the incenter of triangle \(ABC\). Let the incircle of \(ABC\) touch the sides \(BC\), \(CA\), and \(AB\) at \(K\), \(L\), and \(M\), respectively. The line through \(B\) parallel to \(MK\) meets the lines \(LM\) and \(LK\) at \(R\) and \(S\), respectively. Prove that angle \(RIS\) is acute.

    Solution →

  6. Problem 6

    Consider all functions \(f\) from the set \(N\) of all positive integers into itself satisfying \(f(t^2f(s))=s(f(t))^2\) for all \(s\) and \(t\) in \(N\). Determine the least possible value of \(f(1998)\).

    Solution →

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