HKMO 1982-2016 (Im Chhunhor)

1982-2016
Hongkong Mathematics Olympiad

1982-2016
Teacher : Im Chhunhor
Answers: (1981-82 HKMO Final Events) Created by Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 23 August 2015
Individual Events
3
I1 a 258 I2 a 17 I3 a 9 I4 x I5 a 360
2
b 15 b 136 b 15 y 1 b 36
c 225 c 15 c 11 z 8 c 54
1
d 75 probability d 73.5 logz y 0 d 36
5
Group Events
surface No. of
G6 log 6 a+b G7 320 cm2 G8 23485 G9 A 15 G10 10
area digits
2000 3 smaller
3.5a+3.5c 3.5 volume cm ans B 56 63
3 no.
a+b+c
or
log 30 b+c 2 2 larger
volume r h word CHRISTMAS C 8 65
log 15 b +1 3 no.
b +1 a
(b+c)(b+c1)
greatest 1 1
(log15)2log15 OR ratio 3:1 message JOIN US X 0
no. 3 3 8 8
(ba+1)(ba)
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Find a if a = 5 + 8 + 11 + + 38.
This is an arithmetic series with first term = 5, common difference = 3
Let n be the number of terms. 38 = 5 + (n 1)(3) n = 12
1
a= (5 + 38)12 = 258
2
I1.2 Let b = the sum of the digits of the number a. Find b.
b = 2 + 5 + 8 = 15
I1.3 If c = b2, find c.
c = 152 = 225
I1.4 Given that 3d = c, find d.
3d = 225 d = 75
Put x = 4 into the polynomial: 2(4)2 + 3(4) + 4d = 0
d = 5
Individual Event 2
1
I2.1 Two cards are drawn at random from a pack and not replaced. Find the probability that both cards are
a
hearts.
1 13 12 1
P(both hearts) = = =
a 52 51 17
a = 17
I2.2 If there are b ways of choosing 15 people from a people, find b.
17 17 16
b = C15 = = 136
2
b
I2.3 If c signals can be made with flags of different colours by raising at least one of the flags, without
2a
considering the arrangement of colours, find c.
b 136
= =4
2a 2 17
The following are different patterns:
0001, 0010, 0011, 0100, 0101, 0110, 0111, 1000, 1001, 1010, 1011, 1100, 1101, 1110, 1111,
where 0 in the ith position represents the ith colour flag is put down and 1 represents the ith colour flag is raised.
c = 15
I2.4 There are c balls in a bag, of which 3 are red. What is the probability of drawing a red ball?
3 1
P(red ball) = =
15 5
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Answers (2016 HKMO Heat Individual Sample) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 12 March 2016
2016 Heat Individual (Sample Paper) answer

I1 237 I2 201499 I3 90 I4 30 I5 7
293 21
I6 11 I7 23 I8 10 I9 (= 8 ) I10 1016064
34 34
I11 4 I12 2012 I13 730639 I14 13 I15 81.64
I1 An integer x minus 12 is the square of an integer. x plus 19 is the square of another integer.
Find the value of x.
x 12 = n2 (1); x + 19 = m2 (2), where m, n are integers.
(2) (1): (m + n)(m n) = 31
31 is a prime number
m + n = 31 and m n = 1
m = 16, n = 15
x = 152 + 12 = 237
I2
Given that 10 2015 102
= 0.000

01 . Find the value of n.

n times
10 201500 = 0.000

01

n times
n = 201500 1 = 201499
I3 As shown in Figure 2, ABCD is a cyclic quadrilateral,
where AD = 5, DC = 14, BC = 10 and AB = 11.
Find the area of quadrilateral ABCD.
Reference: 2002 HI6
AC2 = 102 + 112 21110 cos B ...............(1)
AC2 = 52 + 142 2514 cos D ...................(2)
(1) = (2): 221 220 cosB = 221 140 cosD (3)
B + D = 180 (opp. s, cyclic quad.)
cos D = cos B
(3): (220 + 140) cos B = 0 B = 90 = D
Area of the cyclic quadrilateral
= area of ABC + area of ACD
1 1
= 11 10 5 14 = 90
2 2
I4 Figure 1 shows a right-angled triangle ACD where
B is a point on AC and BC = 2AB. Given that AB = a
and ACD = 30, find the value of .
a
In ABD, AD =
tan
AD 3a
In ACD, AC = =
tan 30 tan

However, AC = AB + BC = a + 2a = 3a
3a
= 3a
tan
3
tan =
3
= 30
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I5 A school issues 4 types of raffle tickets with face values $10, $15, $25 and $40. Class A uses
several one-hundred dollar notes to buy 30 raffle tickets, including 5 tickets each for two of
the types and 10 tickets each for the other two types. How many one-hundred dollars notes
Class A use to buy the raffle tickets?
100 is an even number, the face values $15 and $25 are odd numbers. Only 5 tickets of $15
and 5 tickets of $25 can make a sum of even numbers.
10(10) + 15(5) + 25(5) + 40(10) = 700 Class A uses 7 $100 notes.
I6 Find the remainder when 22011 is divided by 13.
26 = 64 = 135 1 1 mod 13; 212 1 mod 13
2011 = 12167 + 7
22011 = 212167 + 7 = (212)16727 27 262 12 2 11 mod 13
I7 Find the number of places of the number 2202512. (Reference: 1982 FG10.1, 1992 HI17)
2202512 = 220524 = 102054 = 6251020
The number of places = 23
I8 A, B and C pass a ball among themselves. A is the first one to pass the ball to other one. In
how many ways will the ball be passed back to A after 5 passes?
Construct the following table:
Number of passes 1 2 3 4 5
A 0 1+1=2 1+1=2 3+3=6 5+5=10
B 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
C 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
There will be 10 ways for the ball to pass back to A.
I9 Given that a and b are distinct prime numbers, a2 19a + m = 0 and b2 19b + m = 0. Find
a b
the value of . Reference: 1996 HG8, 1996FG7.1, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2, 2012 HI6
b a
a and b are prime distinct roots of x2 19x + m = 0
a + b = sum of roots = 19 (odd)
a and b are prime number and all prime number except 2, are odd.
a = 2, b = 17 (or a = 17, b = 2)
a b 17 2 293 21
= = (= 8 )
b a 2 17 34 34
I10 It is given that a1, a2, , an, is a sequence of positive real numbers such that a1 = 1 and
1
an+1 = an + an . Find the value of a2015.
4
1 9
a2 = 2 + =
4 4
9 3 1 16
a3 = + + =
4 2 4 4
Claim: an =
n 12 for n 1
4
Pf: By M.I. n = 1, 2, 3, proved already.
Suppose ak =
k 12 for some positive integer k.
4
1 k 1 k 1 1 k 1 2k 1 1 k 1 1
2 2 2
ak+1 = ak + a k = + = =
4 4 2 4 4 4
By M.I., the statement is true for n 1
2016 2
a2015 = = 10082 = 1016064
4
I11 If the quadratic equation (k2 4)x2 (14k + 4)x + 48 = 0 has two distinct positive integral
roots, find the value(s) of k.
Clearly k2 4 0; otherwise, the equation cannot have two real roots.
Let the roots be , .
= (14k + 4)2 4(48) (k2 4) = 22[(7k + 2)2 48k2 + 192] = 22(k2 + 28k + 196) = [2(k + 14)]2
14k 4 2k 14 7k 2 k 14 8k 16 6k 12
2
8 6
= ,= 2

2 k 4
2
=
k 4
2
= 2 =
k 4 k 2
=
k 4 k 2
.
For positive integral roots, k 2 is a positive factor of 8 and k + 2 is a positive factor of 6.

k 2 = 1, 2, 4, 8 and k + 2 = 1, 2, 3, 6
k = 3, 4, 6, 10 and k = 1, 0, 1, 4
k = 4 only
Method 2 provided by Mr. Jimmy Pang from Po Leung Kuk Lee Shing Pik College
The quadratic equation can be factorised as: [(k 2)x 8][(k + 2)x 6] = 0
8 6
k 2 and k 2 x = or
k 2 k 2
By similar argument as before, for positive integral root, k = 4 only.
I12 Given that y = (x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 3)(x + 4) + 2013, find the minimum value of y.
Reference 1993HG5, 1993 HG6, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3
y = (x + 1)(x + 4)(x + 2)(x + 3) + 2013 = (x2 + 5x + 4)(x2 + 5x + 6) + 2013
= (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 24 + 2013 = (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 25 + 2012
= (x2 + 5x + 5)2 + 2012 2012
The minimum value of y is 2012.
I13 How many pairs of distinct integers between 1 and 2015 inclusively have their products as
multiple of 5?
Multiples of 5 are 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, , 2015. Number = 403
Numbers which are not multiples of 5 = 2015 403 = 1612
Let the first number be x, the second number be y.
Number of pairs = No. of ways of choosing any two numbers from 1 to 2015 no. of ways of
choosing such that both x, y are not multiples of 5.
2015 2014 1612 1611 5 2014 4 1611
= C 22015 C 21612 = = 403
2 2 2 2
= 403 5 1007 2 1611 = 403(5035 3222) = 4031813 = 730639
I14 Let x be a real number. Find the minimum value of x 2 4 x 13 x 2 14 x 130 .
Reference 2010 FG4.2 Q(7, 9)
Consider the following problem: 8
Let P(2, 3) and Q(7, 9) be two points. R(x, 0) is a variable point

on x-axis. To find the minimum sum of distances PR + RQ. 6
Let y = sum of distances = x 2 9 x 7 81

2 2
4
If we reflect P(2, 3) along x-axis to P(2, 3), M(2, 0) is the foot P(2, 3)
of perpendicular, 2
then PMR PMR (S.A.S.)

y = PR + RQ = PR + RQ PQ (triangle inequality)
M(2, 0) 5
7 2 9 3
R(x, 0)
y
2 2
= 13
-2
The minimum value of x 2 4 x 13 x 2 14 x 130 is 13. P'(2, -3)
I15 In figure 2, AE = 14, EB = 7, AC = 29 and BD = DC = 10.

Find the value of BF2.
Reference: 2005 HI5
AB = 14 + 7 = 21, BC = 10 + 10 = 20
AB2 + BC2 = 212 + 202 = 841 = 292 = AC2
ABC = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
Let BF = a, CBF = , ABF = 90
Area of BEF + area of BCF = area of BCE
1 1 20 7
20 a sin a 7 cos
2 2 2
20a sin + 7a cos = 140 (1)
Area of BDF + area of ABF = area of ABD
1 1 10 21
21 a cos a 10 sin
2 2 2
21a cos + 10a sin = 210 (2)
2(2) (1): 35 a cos = 280
a cos = 8 (3)
3(1) (2): 50 a sin = 210
21
a sin = (4)
5
2
21 2041 16
(3) + (4) : BF = a = 8 + =
2 2 2 2 2
(= 81 = 81.64)
5 25 25
Answers: (2015-16 HKMO Heat Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 12 March 2016
1 8 2 1007 3 45 4 12 5 5985
15-16 6 14 7 200 8 46 9 14 10 32
Individual 1 17
11 12 13 522 14 20 15 1
2016 3
1 63
1 2 75 cm2 3 4 6 5 7
15-16 2 2 2011
Group 281 8
6 672 7 72 8 386946 9 = 21 10 4062241
13 13
Individual Events
I1 0.1252016(22017)3
Find the value of 0.1252016(22017)3.
2016 2016
0.125 (2 ) =
2016 2017 3 1
23
2017 1
= 8 8 = 8
8 8
x1 x 2 x 2 x3 x3 x 4 x 2014 x 2015 x 2015 x 2016 1
I2 x1
x1 x 2 x3 x 2015 x 2016 x 2016
x1 x 2 x 2 x3 x3 x 4 x 2014 x 2015 x 2015 x 2016 1
Given the equations , find
x1 x 2 x3 x 2015 x 2016 x 2016
the value of x1.
x1 + x2 = x2 + x3 x1 = x3
x2 + x3 = x3 + x4 x2 = x4
x3 + x4 = x4 + x5 x3 = x5

Inductively, we can prove that x1 = x3 = = x2015; x2 = x4 = = x2016
Let a = x1 + x3 + + x2015 = 1008x1; b = x2 + x4 + + x2016 = 1008x2.
Sub. the above results into equation (2): 1008(x1 + x2) = x2016 = x2
1008 = x2
x1 + x2 = 1 x1 = 1 1008 = 1007
I3 x 2016 x
How many x are there so that 2016 x is an integer?
45 = 2025 > 2016 x 2016 > 1936 = 44
2016 x = 0, 1, 2, or 44.
There are 45 different x to make 2016 x an integer.
I4 xy xy (x + 1)2 + (y 2)2 = 50
If x, y are integers, how many pairs of x, y are there which satisfy the equation
(x + 1)2 + (y 2)2 = 50?
The integral solutions to a2 + b2 = 50 are (a, b) = (5, 5), (7, 1) or (1, 7).
The number of pairs of integral solutions are 223 = 12.
I5 63 2016 63 63
The sum of 63 consecutive integers is 2016, find the sum of the next 63 consecutive integers.
The sum of next 63 consecutive integers = 2016 + 6363 = 5985
Answers (2015-16 HKMO Heat Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 12 March 2016
I6 8 8 A 8
A
Given that the mean, median, range and the only mode of 8 integers are also 8. If A is the
largest integer among those 8 integers, find the maximum value of A.
Suppose the 8 integers, arranged in ascending order, are a b c d e f g A.
abcd e f g A
= 8 a + b + c + d + e + f + g + A = 64 (1)
8
d e
= 8 d + e = 16 (2)
2
a = A 8 (3)
Sub. (2) and (3) into (1): A 8 + b + c + 16 + f + g + A = 64 2A + b + c + f + g = 56 (4)
Median = 8 d 8 e
Mode = 8 d = e = 8
In order to maximize A and satisfy equation (4), b, c, f, g must be as small as possible.
f = g = 8, b = A 8, c = A 8; sub. these assumptions into (4):
2A + 2A 16 + 8 + 8 = 56
The maximum value of A = 14.
I7 1 500 2
How many 2s are there in the numbers between 1 to 500?
1 to 9, 2 appears once. 10 to 99, 2 appears in 12, 20, 21, 22, , 29, 32, , 92: 19 times.
100 to 199, 2 appears 20 times, 200 to 299, 2 appears 120 times,
300 to 399, 2 appears 20 times, 400 to 499, 2 appears 20 times.
2 appears 200 times.
I8 16 1140 a 240 a
A number in base 16 is 1140. The same number in base a is 240, what is a?
114016 = 163 + 162 + 416 = 441610 = 240a = 2a2 + 4a
a2 + 2a 2208 = 0
(a 46)(a + 48) = 0
a = 46 or 48 (rejected)
I9 P (6, 240) P 16 P
The polar coordinates of P are (6, 240). If P is translated to the right by 16 units, find the
distance between its image and the pole.
Before translation, the rectangular coordinates of P is (6 cos 240, 6 sin 240) = (3, 3 3 ).
After translation, the rectangular coordinates of P is (13, 3 3 ).
2
The distance from the pole is 132 3 3 = 14 units
I10 ABC BD CE AC AB A
BD CE BD = 8CE = 6ABC

As shown in Figure 1, BD and CE are the medians of the sides AC
and AB of ABC respectively, and BD CE. Given that BD = 8,
CE = 6, find the area of ABC. E D
8
6

Figure 1 B C
Suppose BD and CE intersect at the centriod G.

A
Then G divides each median in the ratio 1 : 2.
16 8
CG = 4, GE = 2; BG = , GD = .
3 3
1 16
SBCE = 6 = 16 sq. units
2 3 8
E D
3
SABC = 2 SBCE = 32 sq. units
2
G
16
3 4
B C
I11 100[log(63x)][log(32x)] + 1 = 0
It is known that the equation 100[log(63x)][log(32x)] + 1 = 0 has two distinct real roots and
. Find the value of .
100[log(63x)][log(32x)] + 1 = 0 100(log 63 + log x)(log 32 + log x) + 1 = 0
100 (log x)2 + 100(log 32 + log 63)x + log 32 log 63 + 1 = 0
This is a quadratic equation in log x. The two distinct real roots are log and log .
100log 32 log 63 1 1
log = log + log = sum of roots = = log =
100 32 63 2016
I12 ABC CDEF FGH ABC //
B C
FGHAB = 42GH = 40EF = 6 FG = 8 ABC
D
FGH 41 BC
As shown in Figure 2, ABC, CDEF and FGH are straight lines, A
ABC // FGH, AB = 42, GH = 40, EF = 6 and FG = 8. Given that
the distance between ABC and FGH is 41, find BC.
Let the mid-point of AB be M. H
Draw the perpendicular bisector MN of AB cutting GH at N. E
AM = MB = 21 and AB MN. Figure 2
F G
HNM = AMN = 90 (alt. s, AB // GH)
MN must pass through the centre O of the circle. C
B
GN = NH = 20 ( from centre bisect chord)
Let ON = x, then OM = 41 x. Join OA, OH. Let the radius be r. 21 M D
2 2 2 41-x
21 + (41 x) = r (1) (Pythagoras theorem on AMO) A
2 2 2
20 + x = r (2) (Pythagoras theorem on HNO) r
2 2 O r
(1) = (2): 441 + 1681 82x + x = 400 + x
x = 21 x H
Sub. x = 21 into (2): r2 = 202 + 212 r = 29 E 20
N
FGFH = FEFD (intersecting chords theorem) 6
F 8G
848 = 6(6 + ED)
ED = 58 = 2r = diameter of the circle
O is the mid-point of ED.
It is easy to show that OMC ~ ONF (equiangular)
MC NF
(corr. sides, ~s)
OM ON
21 BC 8 20

41 21 21
17
BC =
3
I13 AB C
(a) ACB 3
(b) BAC 4
(c) BCA 5
(d) CBA
ABC
Let A, B and C be three digits. The number formed by these three digits has the following
properties:
(a) ACB is divisible by 3;
(b) BAC is divisible by 4;
(c) BCA is divisible by 5;
(d) CBA has an odd number of factors.
Find the 3-digit number ABC.
From (a), A + B + C = 3m (1), where m is a positive integer.
From (b), 10A + C = 4n (2), where n is a positive integer.
From (c), A = 0 or 5 (3)
If A = 0, then ACB is not a three digit number. rejected
Sub. A = 5 into (2), C = 2 or 6
From (d), CBA has an odd number of factors CBA is a perfect square (4)
Sub. A = 5, C = 6 into (1): B = 1, 4 or 7
CBA = 615, 645 or 675, all these numbers are not perfect square, rejected.
Sub. A = 5, C = 2 into (1): B = 2, 5 or 8
CBA = 225, 255 or 285
Of these numbers, only 225 is a perfect square
A = 5, B = 2, C = 2
ABC = 522
I14 ABCD E AD D F C
F DC DF : FC = 1 : 2FA
H
ABCD
FB EC G H E G
FGH
As shown in Figure 3, ABCD is a parallelogram. E is the
mid-point of AD and F is a point on DC such that DF : FC A B
= 1 : 2. FA and FB intersect EC at G and H respectively.

Area of ABCD Figure 2
Find the value of .
Area of FGH
Reference: 1998 HG5
D k F 2k C
H
E G
I 3k A 3k B
Produce CE to meet BA produced at I. Let DF = k, CF = 2k.

AB = 3k (opp. sides //-gram)
CDE IAE (DE = EA, given, A.A.S.)
IA = DC = 3k (corr. sides, s)
CFG ~ IAE (equiangular)
CG : GI = CF : IA = FG : GA = 2 : 3 (1) (corr. sides, ~s)
CFH ~ IBH (equiangular)
CH : HI = CF : IB = FH : HB = 2k : 6k = 1 : 3 (2) (corr. sides, ~s)
Let IC = 20m. By (1), CG = 8m, GI = 12m.
By (2), CH = 5m, HI = 15k
GH = CG CH = 8m 5m = 3m
CH : HG = 5m : 3m = 5 : 3
Let SFGH = 3p, then SCFH = 5p (FGH and CFH have the same height)
SCFG = 3p + 5p = 8p
3
SCAG = 8 p = 12p (CFG and CAG have the same height & by (1))
2
SCAF = 8p + 12p = 20p
1
SDAF = 20 p = 10p (DAF and CAF have the same height)
2
SCAD = 10p + 20p = 30p
ACD CAB (A.S.A.)
SCAB = 30p
SABCD = 30p + 30p = 60p
Area of ABCD 60 p
= = 20
Area of FGH 3 p
I15 {an} an+2 = an+1 an a2 = 1 a3 = 1 a2016

Given a sequence {an}, where an+2 = an+1 an. If a2 = 1 and a3 = 1, find the value of a2016.
a4 = a3 a2 = 1 (1) = 2
a5 = a4 a3 = 2 1 = 1
a6 = a5 a4 = 1 2 = 1
a7 = a6 a5 = 1 1 = 2
a8 = a7 a6 = 2 (1) = 1 = a2
a9 = a8 a7 = 1 (2) = 1 = a3
a10 = a9 a8 = 1 (1) = 2 = a4
The sequence repeats the cycle (1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 2) for every 6 terms.
2016 = 6336
a2016 = a2010 = = a6 = 1
Group Events
G1 1
1
1 2
2
1 1
3 4
3 4
2016
At the beginning, there was 1 litre of alcohol in bottle A and bottle B is an empty bottle.
1
First, pour all alcohol from bottle A to bottle B; second, pour of the alcohol from bottle B
2
1 1
back to bottle A; third, pour of the alcohol from bottle A to bottle B; fourth, pour of
3 4
the alcohol from bottle B back to bottle A, . After the 2016th pouring, how much alcohol
was left in bottle A?
No. of times Amount of alcohol in A Amount of alcohol in B
1 0 1
2 1 1 1
1 =
2 2 2
3 1 2 1 1 2
= 1 =
2 3 3 3 3
4 1 1 2 3 1
1 = =
2 2 3 4 2
5 1 4 2 2 3
= 1 =
2 5 5 5 5
6 1 1 3 5 1
1 = =
2 2 5 6 2
Let the amount of alcohol in A and B be an and bn after n trails.
1 n 1 n
Claim: For n > 1, a2n = b2n = , a2n1 = , b2n1 = .
2 2n 1 2n 1
Proof: Mathematical induction on n. n = 2, 3, proved by the above table.
1
Suppose a2k = b2k = for some positive integer k > 1.
2
1
a2k+1 =
2k
=
k
=
k 1 1 ; b = 1 k = k 1 = k 1
2 2k 1 2k 1 2k 1 1 2k 1 2k 1 2k 1 1
2k+1
k 1 k
Suppose a2k1 = , b2k1 = for some positive integer k > 1.
2k 1 2k 1
k 2k 1 1 1 1
b2k = = ; b2k = 1 =
2k 1 2k 2 2 2
By the principal of mathematical induction, the claim is true for all positive integer n>1.
1
a2016 = a2(1008) =
2
G2 ABCP AB Q CP A
BQ CPPQ = 6 cmCQ = 9 cm
AQ = 13 cmABC 13 cm
Figure 1 shows ABC, P is the mid-point of AB C 9 cm Q 6 cm P
and Q is a point on CP. It is known that BQ CP,

PQ = 6 cm, CQ = 9 cm and AQ = 13 cm. Find the
area of ABC. B
Produce QP to D so that PD = QP = 6 cm A
AP = PB (given that P is the mid-point of AB)
APD = BPQ (vert. opp. s)
APD BPQ (S.A.S.) 13 cm
ADP = BQP = 90 (corr. s, s) C
9 cm Q 6 cm P 6 cm D
AD = 13 12 cm = 5 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
2 2
QB = AD = 5 cm (corr. sides, s)
1 75 B
SBCP = 15 5 cm2 = cm2
2 2
75 2
SACP = SBCP = cm (They have the same base and the same height)
2
75
SABC = 2 cm2 = 75 cm2
2
Method 2 (Provided by Mr. Mak Hugo Wai Leung)
Using coordinate geometry method, we denote C as the A(21, y)
origin, then Q = (9, 0), P = (15, 0). We may let B =
(9, y), where y > 0. Since P is the midpoint of A and B,
the coordinates A = (21, y). Q(9,0) P(15, 0)
C(0, 0)
Now AQ = 13 gives y 0 21 9 13 ,
2 2
solving yields y = 5 (since y > 0). B(9, -y)

Therefore, A = (21, 5), B = (9, 5), C = (0, 0), and the
area of triangle ABC is given by:
0 0
1 9 5
cm2 = 45 105 cm2 = 75 cm2
1
2 21 5 2
0 0
G3 a1, a2, a3, Sn = a1 + a2 + + an n

1
Sn = 2 an n 1 a2016
2
Consider a sequence of numbers a1, a2, a3, . Define Sn = a1 + a2 + + an for any positive
1
integer n. Find the value of a2016 if Sn = 2 an n 1 .
2
n
Claim: an = n
2
1
Prove by induction. S1 = a1 = 2 a1 1 a1 =
2
1 1 1 1 2
S2 = a1 + a2 = 2 a2 + 2a2 = 2 a2 = =
2 2 2 2 4
m
Suppose am = m is true for m = 1, 2, , k, where k is a positive integer.
2
1 2 3 4 k 1
Sk+1 = + + + + + k + ak+1 = 2 ak+1 k (1)
2 4 8 16 2 2
3 4 k 1
2Sk+1 = 1 + 1 + + + + k 1 + 2ak+1 = 4 2ak+1 k 1 (2)
4 8 2 2
1 1 1 1 k 1
2Sk+1 Sk+1 = 1+ + + + + k 1 k + ak+1 = 2 ak+1 k
2 4 8 2 2 2
1
1 k
2 k 2a 2 1 2 2 k 2a 2 1 ak+1 = k 1
k 1 k 1
1
1 2k 2k 2k 2k 2k 2 k 1
2
By the principle of mathematical induction, the formula is true for all positive integer n.
2016 32 63 63
a2016 = 2016 = = 2011
2 32 2 2011
2
G4 x y log x + log y = log(2x y) + 1 (x, y)
If x and y are positive integers that satisfy log x + log y = log(2x y) + 1, find the number of
possible pairs of (x, y).
Reference: 2002 HG9, 2006 FI3.3, 2006 FG2.4, 2012 FI4.2
log(xy) = log(2x y) + log 10 xy = 10(2x y)
20x 10y xy = 0
200 + 20x y(10 + x) = 200 (20 y)(10 + x) = 200
10 + x 20 y x y
1 200 rejected
2 100 rejected
4 50 rejected
5 40 rejected
8 25 rejected
10 20 rejected
20 10 10 10
25 8 15 12
40 5 30 15
50 4 40 16
100 2 90 18
200 1 190 19
There are 6 pairs of (x, y) satisfying the equation.
G5 AOB = 15XY OA PQR A

Y
OB OP = 1 OR = 3 X
s = PX + XQ + QY + YR s O 15
P B
Q R
In Figure 2, AOB = 15. X, Y are points on OA, P, Q, R
are points on OB such that OP = 1 and OR = 3. Figure 2
If s = PX + XQ + QY + YR, find the least value of s.
Reference: 1999 HG9 E
Reflect O, P, Q, R, B along OA to give O, S, T, U, C.
N
Reflect O, X, Y, A along OC to give O, V, W, D. D
Reflect O, S, T, U, C along OD to give O, L, M, N, E. M W C

U
By the definition of reflection, 3
AOC = COD = DOE = AOB = 15, BOE = 60 L

V T
A
Y
OS = OL = OP = 1, OT = OM = OQ, OU = ON = OR = 3 15 S X
15
OV = OX, OW = OY 15
15
O B
s = PX + XQ + QY + YR P Q R
1
= PX + XT + TW + WN
s is the least when P, X, T, W, N are collinear.
In this case, by cosine rule,
s2 = 12 + 32 213 cos 60 = 7
s= 7
G6 y = px2 + qx + r
(1) y x = 2016
(2) x AB AB = 4
(3) y = 10 CD CD = 16
q
Let y = px2 + qx + r be a quadratic function. It is known that
(1) The axis of symmetry of y is x = 2016.
(2) The curve cuts the x-axis at two points A and B such that AB = 4 units.
(3) The curve cuts the line y = 10 at two points C and D such that CD = 16 units.
Find the value of q.
y = p(x 2016)2 + k
Let , be the roots of y = p(x 2016)2 + k = 0
p(x2 4032x + 20162) + k = 0
px2 4032px + 20162p + k = 0
2016 2 p k k
+ = 4032, = = 20162 +
p p
| | = 4 ( ) = 16
2
( + )2 4 = 16
k
(4032)2 4(20162 + ) = 16
p
k = 4p
y = p(x 2016)2 4p = px2 4032px + (20162 4)p
Let r, s be the roots of px2 4032px + (20162 4)p = 10
2014 2018 p 10 10
r + s = 4032, rs = = 20142018 +
p p
|r s| = 16 (r + s) 4rs = 256
2
10
40322 4(20162 4 + ) = 256
p
40
16 = 256
p
40
= 240
p
1
p =
6
1
q = 4032p = 4032 = 672
6
G7 912 15
The lengths of the three medians of a triangle are 9, 12 and 15. Find the area of the triangle.
Let the triangle be ABC, with medians AD = 15, BE = 12, CF = 9. A
The centriod G divides each median in the ratio 1 : 2.
AG = 10, GD = 5, BG = 8, GE = 4, CG = 6, GF = 3.
Produce GD to H so that GD = DH = 5.
Join BH, HC. By the definition of median, BD = DC.
BHCG is a parallelogram. (diagonals bisect each other)
CH = 8, BH = 6 (opp. sides of //-gram) F 10 E
4
In BGH, BG + BH = 6 + 8 = 36 + 64 = 100 = 10 = GH
2 2 2 2 2 2
3
GBH = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem) G
8
SBGH = BH BG = 6 8 = 24
1 1 6
5
2 2
24 B
SBDG = SBHG = = 12 (equal base, same height) D C
2 5
SCDG = SBDG = 12 (equal base, same height) 6 8
SBCG = 12 + 12 = 24
3 24 H
SBGF = SBCG = = 12 (different bases, same height)
6 2
SBCF = 12 + 24 = 36
SACF = SBCF = 36 (equal base, same height)
SABC = 36 + 36 = 72
Method 2 (Inspired by Mr. Mak Hugo Wai Leung)
mm ma m mb m mc (*), where ma, mb and mc are
4
Claim: Area of triangle =
3
m mb mc
the lengths of the 3 medians from vertices A, B and C respectively, and m = a .
2
The centriod G divides each median in the ratio 1 : 2. A
2 2 2
AG = ma , BG = mb , CG = mc .
3 3 3
1
Produce GD to H so that GD = DH = ma . F
3 E
BHCG is a parallelogram (diagonals bisect each other) G 2m
3 c
HC = BG, BH = CG (opp. sides of //-gram)
CGH is similar to a larger triangle whose sides are B 2m C
3 aD 2m
ma, mb, mc. By Heron formula,
2
3 b
2 H
SCGH = mm ma m mb m mc = SBGH
3
mm ma m mb m mc
1 4
SBCG = SBCH = S BGCH =
2 9
mm ma m mb m mc
4
SACG = SABG =
9
mm ma m mb m mc = mm ma m mb m mc
4 4
SABC = 3
9 3
m = 12 9 12 15 = 18, m ma = 18 9 = 9, m mb = 18 12 = 6, m mc = 18 15 = 3
SABC = 43 189 63 = 72
G8
(1) 11
(2) 1

(2016 2016 = 111111000002)

If the binary representation of a positive integer has the following properties:
(1) the number of digits = 11,
(2) the number of 1s = 6 and the number of 0s = 5,
then the number is said to be a good number.
(For example, 2016 is a good number as 2016 = 111111000002.)
Find the sum of all good numbers.
Let the 11-digit binary number be X = abcdefghijk , where a = 1 and all other digits are either
0 or 1. If X is a good number, then, discard the leftmost digit, there are 5 1s and 5 0s.
10 9 8 7 6
The number of good numbers is C510 = = 252
1 2 3 4 5
Starting from rightmost digit to 29-digit, each digit has 126 1s and 126 0s
Sum of all good numbers is 252210 + 12629 + 12628 + + 126
211 1
= 126 210 126
2 1
= 126(1024 + 2047)
= 1263071 = 386946
G9 ab c f (x) = x(x a)(x b)(x c) x a
b c x = (x a) + (x b) + (x c) f (x) = 900
Let the three sides of a triangle are of lengths a, b and c where all of them are integers. Given
that f (x) = x(x a)(x b)(x c) where x is an integer of size greater than a, b and c.
If x = (x a) + (x b) + (x c) and f (x) = 900, find the sum of the lengths of the three
altitudes of this triangle.
a, b and c are the sides of an right-angled triangle with integral values.
(a, b, c) = (3, 4, 5), (6, 8, 10), (5, 12, 13), (9, 12, 15), (8, 15, 17),
3 4 6 8 5 12 9 12 8 15
Area of the triangle = , , , , , = 6, 24, 30, 54, 60,
2 2 2 2 2
x = (x a) + (x b) + (x c) a + b + c = 2x = perimeter of the triangle
By Herons formula, area of the triangle = x x a x b x c = f x = 900 = 30
a = 5, b = 12, c = 13
60
The three altitudes of the triangle are: 12, 5, .
13
60 281
Sum of all altitudes = 12 + 5 + = .
13 13
14 2015 4 2016 4
G10
12 2015 2 2016 2
14 2015 4 2016 4
Find the value of 2 .
1 2015 2 2016 2
Reference: 2008 FGS.4
Let x = 2015.5, then 2015 = x 0.5, 2016 = x + 0.5
14 2015 4 2016 4 1 x 0.5 x 0.5
4 4
=
12 2015 2 2016 2 1 x 0.52 x 0.52

1 2 x 4 60.5 x 2 0.54
2

=

1 2 x 2 0.52
1
1 2 x 4 3x 2
= 8
1
1 2x2
2
9
2 x 4 3x 2
= 8
3
2x2
2
16 x 24 x 2 9
4
44 x 2 3
=
4 x 3
2 2
44 x 3
= 2
4x2 3
=
4
=
2 2015.5 3
2
4
4031 3
2
=
4
=
4000 31 3
2
4
16000000 248000 961 3
=
4
16248964
= = 4062241
4
Method 2 (provided by Mr. Mak Hugo Wai Leung)
In general, we have
4

1 x 4 x 1 2 x 4 2 x 3 3 x 2 2 x 1
x2 x 1 2
= x2 + x + 1
1 x x 1
2 2
=

2 x x 1
2
=
x x 1
2
Substituting x = 2015 yields

14 2015 4 2016 4
= 1 + 2015 + 20152 = 1 + 2015 + (2000 +15)2
1 2015 2016
2 2 2
= 2016 + 4000000 + 60000 + 225

= 2016 + 4060225
= 4062241
Geometrical Construction
1. Suppose there are three different parallel lines, L1, L2 and L3. Construct an equilateral triangle
with only one vertex lies on each of the three parallel lines.
L1L2 L3

Reference:
http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Geometry/construction/trian
gle/Equilateral_tri_on_3_parallel_lines.pdf
L1
L2
L3
() A P Y B
2
(1) AB Y 5
R
Y AB CD X EF R E 3 F
Z
5
(2) XYZ 4 1
2
(3) ZR
C Q X D
(4) Z ZR AB P CD Q
(5) PR QR
PQR
PQ ZR AB YR ()
PYRZ (=)
RPZ = RYZ ()
= XYZ = 60
PQ ZR CD RX ()
QXRZ (=)
RQZ = RXZ ()
= YXZ = 60
PRQ = 180 60 60 = 60 ()
PQR
()() 1
(1) AB P
P AB H K
H P Y K
(2) H HP J A 2
B
4
K KP L
J 2 L
JPL = 60 PJ EF X 2
CD R PL CD Q E 60 2 F
(3) XQ X 3
5
(4) X XYYXQ = 60 AB C D
R Q
Y

(5) YQ
XYQ
HPJ KPL ()
HPJ = 60 = KPL ()
JPL = 60 ()
PRQ = 60 = PQR (AB // CD )
PQR
QXY = 60 = QPY ()
PXQY ()
XYQ = XPQ = 60 ()
XQY = HPX = 60 ()
XYQ
()()
H
(1) AB P 1 1
PEG PFH P
A B
(2) GH CD Q PQ 60 x 2
(3) QPR = 60 EF R 3
3
2
(4) QR E y
R F
PQR 4
C 1 Q D
1
G

QPF = xPFE = y
PEF PGH
PE = PGPF = PH ()
EPG = 60 = FPH ()
EPF = 60 + GPF = GPH
PEF PGH (S.A.S.)
PEF = PHG = y ()
RPF = 60 + x = QPH
PF = PH ()
RPF QPH (A.S.A.)
PR = PQ ()
PQR ()
PQR = PRQ ()
= (180 60)2 ()
= 60
PQR
H
AB // CD // EF
A
P
B
F
R
E Q
C D
2. Given four points A, B, C and D as shown in the figure below, construct a square which passes
through these four points.
ABC D
D
A
2
A 1 D
S P
5
C
B C
R B 3 Q
The construction steps are as follows:

(1) Join AD and extend AD to both ends longer.
(2) Construct a line through C and perpendicular to AD which intersect AD produced at P.
(3) Construct a line through B and perpendicular to PC which intersect PC produced at Q.
(4) Use Q as centre and QP as radius to draw an arc, cutting QB produced at R.
(5) Construct a line through R and perpendicular to DA which intersect DA produced at S.
Then PQRS is the required square.
Proof: By construction, SPQ = PQR = PSR = 90
QRS = 360 90 90 90 = 90 (s sum of polygon)
PQRS is a rectangle
By step (4), PQ = QR = radii of the arc.
PQRS is a square.
Remark: A, B, C and D may lie outside the square.
Answers: (2014-15 HKMO Heat Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 25 January 2016
1 730639 2 201499 3 22 4 232 5 1016064

14-15
36
Individual 6 32 7 126 8 1 9 13 10
55
31 3 3
1 2 3 4 4 18 5 15
14-15 3747900 2
Group 6 2014
6 140 7 8 454 9 2 14 10
23 2015
Individual Events
multiple of 5?
2015 2014 1612 1611 5 2014 4 1611
= C 22015 C 21612 = = 403
2 2 2 2
= 403 5 1007 2 1611 = 403(5035 3222) = 4031813 = 730639
Given that 10 2015
102
I2 = 0.000


n times
201500
10 = 0.000

01

n times
n = 201500 1 = 201499
I3 Let x be the measure of an interior angle of an n-sided regular polygon, where x is an integer,
how many possible values of n are there?
If x is an integer, then each exterior angle, 360 x, is also an integer.
Using the fact that the sum of exterior angle of a convex polygon is 360.
360
Each exterior angle = , which is an integer.
n
n must be an positive integral factor of 360.
n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 24, 30, 36, 40, 45, 60, 72, 90, 120, 180, 360
However, n = 1 and n =2 must be rejected because the least number of sides is 3.
There are 22 possible value of n.
I4 As shown in the figure, EGB = 64,
A + B + C + D + E + F = ?
reflex BGF = reflex CGE = 180 + 64 = 244
Consider quadrilateral ABGF,
A +B +reflex BGF +F = 360 ( sum of polygon)
Consider quadrilateral CDEG,
C +D +E+reflex CGE = 360 ( sum of polygon)
Add these two equations,
A + B + C + D +E +F = 720 2(244) =232
1
4
1 9
a2 = 2 + =
4 4
9 3 1 16
a3 = + + =
4 2 4 4
Claim: an =
n 12 for n 1
4
Suppose ak =
4
1 k 1 k 1 1 k 1 2k 1 1 k 1 1
2 2 2
ak+1 = ak + a k = + = =
4 4 2 4 4 4
2016 2
a2015 = = 10082 = 1016064
4
I6 As shown in the figure, ABCD is a convex quadrilateral and
AB + BD + CD = 16. Find the maximum area of ABCD.
Let AB = a, BD = b, CD = c, ABD = , BDC =
Area of ABCD = area of ABD + area of BCD
1 1
= ab sin bc sin
2 2
1 1
ab bc , equality holds when = 90, = 90
2 2
= ba c = b16 b
1 1
2 2
1 b 16 b
2
(A.M. G.M., equality holds when b = 8, a + c = 8)

2 2
= 32
The maximum area of ABCD = 32
I7 Let x, y, z > 1, p > 0, logx p = 18, logy p = 21 and logxyz p = 9. Find the value of logz p.
Reference: 1999 FG1.4, 2001 FG1.4
log p log p log p
= 18, = 21, =9
log x log y log xyz
log x 1 log y 1 log x log y log z 1
, ,
log p 18 log p 21 log p 9
log x log y log z 1 1 log z 1

log p log p log p 18 21 log p 9
log z 1
=
log p 126
log p
logz p = = 126
log z
1 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7

I8 Find the value of .
4029 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
1 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7

2014 2015 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
1 1 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7
= 1
2015 2014 2014 2015 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
2 2014 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7
= 1
2015 2 2014 2 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
4 2014 3 4 2014 3 8 2014 7
= 1
2015 4 2014 4 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
8 2014 7 8 2014 7
= 1= 1
20158 20148 20158 20148
Reference 2010 FG4.2
Consider the following problem: Q(7, 9)
Let P(2, 3) and Q(7, 9) be two points. R(x, 0) is a variable point 8
on x-axis.
To find the minimum sum of distances PR + RQ. 6

2 2
If we reflect P(2, 3) along x-axis to P(2, 3), M(2, 0) is the foot 4
of perpendicular, P(2, 3)
then PMR PMR (S.A.S.) 2
y 7 22 9 32 = 13
M(2, 0) 5
R(x, 0)
The minimum value of x 2 4 x 13 x 2 14 x 130 is 13.
-2
P'(2, -3)
I10 B, H and I are points on the circle. C is a point outside the circle. BC is tangent to the circle at
B. HC and IC cut the circle at D and G respectively. It is given that HDC is the angle bisector
area of BDH
of BCI, BC = 12, DC = 6 and GC = 9. Find the value of .
area of DHIG
By intersecting chords theorem,
CHCD = BC2 H I
6CH = 122
CH = 24 G
DH = 24 6 = 18 9
Let BCD = = GCD ( HDC is the angle bisector) D6
S BCD 12 BC CD sin 12 4 12 C
(1) B
S CDG 12 GC CD sin 9 3
Consider BCD and BDH
They have the same height but different bases.
S BDH DH 18
3 (2)
S BCD CD 6
Consider CDG and CIH
DCG = ICH (common s)
CDG = CIH (ext. , cyclic quad.)

CGD = CHI (ext. , cyclic quad.)
CDG ~ CIH (equiangular)
2 2
S CIH CH 24 64

S CDG CG 9 9
S 64 9 55
DHIG
S CDG 9 9
S 9
CDG (3)
S DHIG 55
area of BDH SBCD SBDH S CDG 4 9 36
(1)(2)(3): = = 3 =
area of DHIG SCDG SBCD SDHIG 3 55 55
Group Events
1 1 1 1
G1 Find the value of .
1860 1865 1865 1870 1870 1875 2010 2015
Reference: 2010 HI3
1 A B
Let
r r 5 r r 5
Then A(r + 5) + Br 1
1
Put r = 0, then A =
5
1
Put r = 5, then B =
5
1 1 1 1

1860 1865 1865 1870 1870 1875 2010 2015
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
=
5 1860 1865 1865 1870 1870 1875 2010 2015
1 1 1 31
= =
5 1860 2015 3747900
G2 Given an equilateral triangle ABC with each side of length 3 and P is an interior point of the
triangle. Let PX, PY and PZ be the feet of perpendiculars from P to AB, BC and CA
respectively, find the value of PX + PY + PZ. (Reference 1992 HG8, 2005 HG9)
Let the distance from P to AB, BC, CA be h1, h2, h3 respectively. A
1 1 1 1 9 3
3h1 3h2 3h3 =area of ABC = 32 sin 60
2 2 2 2 4
3 3 P
PX + PY + PZ = h1 + h2 + h3 =
2
B C
G3 The coordinates of P are ( 3 + 1, 3 + 1). P is rotated 60
anticlockwise about the origin to Q. Q is then reflected along the
y-axis to R. Find the value of PR2. Reference: 2007 HI10
Let the inclination of OP be .
3 1
tan = = 1 = 45
3 1
Inclination of OQ = 45 + 60 = 105
Angle between OQ and positive y-axis = 105 90 = 15
Inclination of OR = 90 15 = 75
POR = 75 45 = 30

OP = OR = 3 1 12 12 = 6 2
Apply cosine rule on POR
PR2 = 6 2 6 2 2 6 2 6 2 cos 30
2 2
= 6 2 2 12 2 2 = 8 4 3 2 3
3
2
=4
b2
G4 Given that a2 + + 9 ab 3b, where a and b are real numbers. Find the value of ab.
2
Reference: 2005 FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2009 FG1.4, 2011 FI4.3, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 FI1.1
4a2 + 2b2 + 36 4ab 12b
(4a2 4ab + b2) + (b2 + 12b + 36) 0
(2a b)2 + (b + 6)2 0
2a b = 0 and b + 6 = 0
b = 6 and a = 3
ab = 18
G5 Given that the equation x 2 15 x 58 2 x 2 15 x 66 has two real roots. Find the sum of
the roots.
Let y = x2 + 15x
(y + 58)2 = 4(y + 66)
y2 + 116y + 3364 = 4y + 264
y2 + 112y + 3100 = 0
(y + 62)(y + 50) = 0
x2 + 15x + 62 = 0 or x2 + 15x + 50 = 0
= 225 248 < 0 or = 225 200 > 0
The first equation has no real roots and the second equation has two real roots
Sum of the two real roots = 15
G6 Given that the sum of two interior angles of a triangle is n, and the largest interior angle is
30 greater than the smallest one. Find the largest possible value of n.
Let the 3 angles of the triangle be x, y and x 30, where x y x 30 (1)
x + y + x 30 = 180 (s sum of )
y = 210 2x (2)
Sub. (2) into (1): x 210 2x x 30
x 70 and 80 x
80 x 70 (3)
n = x + y = x + 210 2x by (2)
x = 210 n (4)
Sub. (4) into (3): 130 n 140
The largest possible value of n = 140
G7 Four circles with radii 1 unit, 2 units, 3 units and r units are
touching one another as shown in the figure. Find the value of r.
Let the centre of the smallest circle be O and the radius be r. Let
the centres of the circles with radii 2, 3, 1 be A, B and C
respectively. AB = 3 + 2 = 5, AC = 2 + 1 = 3, BC = 3 + 1 = 4
AC2 + BC2 = 32 + 42 = 25 = AC2
ABC is a with C = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
OA = r + 2, OB = r + 3, OC = r + 1
Let the feet of drawn from O to BC and AC respectively.
Let CQ = x, CP = y; then AQ = 3 x, BP = 4 y.
In OCQ, x2 + y2 = (r + 1)2 (1) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OAQ, (3 x)2 + y2 = (r + 2)2 (2) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OBP, x2 + (4 y)2 = (r + 3)2 (3) (Pythagoras theorem)
1
(2) (1): 9 6x = 2r + 3 x = 1 r (4)
3
1
(3) (1): 16 8y = 4r + 8 y = 1 r (5)
2
2 2
1 1
Sub. (4), (5) into (1): 1 r 1 r r 1
2 B
3 2
2 1 1
1 r r 2 1 r r 2 1 2r r 2
3 9 4
23 2 11
r r 1 0 4-y
36 3 r+ 3
23r2 + 132r 36 = 0 P O
(23r 6)(r + 6) = 0 r+ 2
y r+ 1
6
r= or 6 (rejected) x Q 3-x A
23 C
Method 2 We shall use the method of circle inversion to solve this problem.
Lemma 1 In the figure, a circle centre at N, with
D
5
radius touches another circle centre at F, with
6
6
radius externally. ME is the common tangent of
5
the two circles. A third circle with centre at P touches
the given two circles externally and also the line ME.
EF is produced to D so that DE = 6. Join DP.
O lies on NM, Y, I lies on FE so that NMOP, PIFE,
NYFE. Prove that
30
(a) the radius of the smallest circle is ; 6
121
(b) ME = 2;
501840
(c) DP =
121 6
5 5
Proof: Let the radius of the smallest circle be a. 6 F
5 6 5 6 N Y
Then PN = + a, PF = + a, NM = , FE =
6 5 6 5
O P I
5 6 6 5 11
NO = a, FI = a, FY = =
6 5 5 6 30 M E
5 5 10a
In PNO, OP2 = ( + a)2 ( a)2 = (Pythagoras theorem)
6 6 3
6 6 24a
In PIF, PI2 = ( + a)2 ( a)2 = (Pythagoras theorem)
5 5 5
In NYF, NY2 + FY2 = NF2 (Pythagoras theorem) (OP + PI)2 + FY2 = NF2
2
10a 24a 11
2
5 6
2

3 5 30 6 5

2 2 2 2
10 24 50 72 5 2 6 2 11 2
a 4 a 4 a 4
3 5 15 a 4
15 15
242 30
a 4 a =
15 121
10a 24a 11 2 11 2 30
ME = OP + PI = = a = =2
3 5 15 15 11
30 696
DI = DE IE = 6 =
121 121
24a 24 30 12
PI = = =
5 5 121 11
In DPI, DI2 + PI2 = DP2 (Pythagoras theorem)
2 2
696 12
DP
2
121 11
501840 501840
DP2 = 2
DP =
121 121
Lemma 2 Given a circle C with centre at O and radius r.
A
A
C P1 O
O P O P O P
P1
B B
Figure 1 Figure 3
Figure 2 Figure 4
P and P1 are points such that O, P, P1 are collinear.
If OPOP1 = r2, then P1 is the point of inversion of P respect to the circle C. (Figure 1)
P is also the point of inversion of P1. O is called the centre of inversion.
If P lies on the circumference of the circle, then OP = r, OP1 = r, P and P1 coincides.
If OP < r, then OP1 > r; if OP > r, then OP1 < r; if OP = 0, then OP1 = ; OP = , OP1 = 0.
If OP < r and APB is a chord, then the inversion of APB is the arc AP1B; the inversion of the
straight line AB is the circle AP1B which has a common chord AB. (Figure 2)
If OP > r, the inversion of a line (outside the given circle) is another smaller circle inside the
given circle passing through the centre O. (Figure 3)
If OP = 0, the inversion of a line through the centre is itself, the line AB. (Figure 4)
c6 c10
c1
A
A c3
c7
O c
O
c2 O
O c9
B
B Figure 7
Figure 6
Figure 5
Figure 8
Given another circle C1 which intersects the original circle at A and B, but does not pass
through O. Then the inversion of C1 with respect to the given circle is another circle C2
passing through A and B but does not pass through O. (Figure 5)
Given another circle C3 which intersects the original circle at A and B, and passes through O.
Then the inversion of C3 with respect to the given circle is the straight line through A and B.
(Figure 6)
Given a circle C6 outside but does not intersect the original circle. The inversion of C6 respect
to the given circle is another circle C7 inside but does not pass through O. Conversely, the
inversion of C7 is C6. (Figure 7)
Given a concentric circle C9 with the common centre O inside the given circle C. Then the
inversion of C9 is another concentric circle C10 outside C. Conversely, the inversion of C10 is
C9. (Figure 8)
c C
c14 O
c c16 P
O O P C c21 c22
P O P
c12
c19 Figure 12
Figure 10
Figure 9 Figure 11
Given a circle C12 inside the given circle C but does not intersect the original circle, and
passes through O. Then the inversion of C12 with respect to the given circle is the straight line
outside C. (Figure 9)
Given a circle C14 inside the given circle C passes through O and touches C internally at P.
Then the inversion of C14 with respect to the given circle is the tangent at P. Conversely, the
inversion of the tangent at P is C14. (Figure 10)
Given a circle C16 inside the given circle C which encloses O but touches C internally at P.
Then the inversion of C16 with respect to the given circle is a circle C19 encloses C and
touches C at P. Conversely, the inversion of C19 is C16. (Figure 11)
Given a circle C21 inside the given circle C which does not enclose O but touches C internally
at P. Then the inversion of C21 with respect to the given circle is a circle C22 which touches C
externally at P. Conversely, the inversion of C22 is C21. (Figure 12)
C3
D C1 V
U
B
G
C5
F
H
K C8
C4 Q C2
N S E
C7
W
J R C9
T
L M
C A
C6
I
X
Z
Suppose the circle C1 with centre at A and the circle C2 with centre at B touch each other at E.
Draw a common tangent XEU. Let EZ and ED be the diameters of these two circles.
Let H be the mid-point of DZ. Use H as centre HD as radius to draw a circle C3.
Use D as centre, DE as radius to draw a circle C4. C4 and C3 intersect at WV.
Join VW. VW intersects DZ at G. Let F be the mid-point of EG.
Use F as centre, FE as radius to draw a circle C5.
BE = 3, AE = 2 (given), DE = 6, EZ = 4, DZ = 6 + 4 = 10.
HD = HZ = HW = 5
Let the diameter of C5 be x, i.e. GE = x, DG = 6 x.
HG = HD DG = 5 (6 x) = x 1
In DGW, WG2 = 62 (6 x)2 = 12x + x2 (1) (Pythagoras theorem)
In HGW, WG2 = 52 (x 1)2 = 24 + 2x x2 (2) (Pythagoras theorem)
6
(1) = (2): 24 + 2x x2 = 12x + x2 x = 2.4 The radius of C5 is 1.2 =
5
DGDZ = (6 2.4)10 = 36 = DE G is the point of inversion of Z w.r.t. C4.
2
Clearly E is the point of inversion of E w.r.t. C4.

The inversion of C2 w.r.t. C4 is C5.
The inversion of C1 w.r.t. C4 is the tangent UEX (see Figure 10).
Let the circle, with centre at C and radius 1 be C6.
Join DC. DC cuts C6 at J. DC is produced to cut C6 again J. Then IJ = diameter of C6 = 2.
4
In ABC, let ABC = , cos = , CBD = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
5
4 24 221
In BCD, CD2 = 32 + 42 234 cos(180 ) = 25 24 = CD =
5 5 5
221 221
DJ = DC CJ = 1; DI = DC + CI = +1
5 5
Invert C6 w.r.t. C4 to C7 centre at N. Suppose DI intersects C7 at K and L in the figure.
221 221
DIDK = 62 and DJDL = 62 1 DK 36 and 1 DL 36
5 5
36 5 221 36 5 221
DK = = 1 and DL = = 1
221 6 5 221 6 5
1 1
5 5
5 221 5 221 5 5
LK = DL DK = 1 1 = The radius of C7 is .
6 5 6 5 3 6
Now construct a smaller circle C8 centre P, touches C5 and C7 externally and also touches XU.
P is not shown in the figure.
30 501840
By the result of Lemma 1, the radius of C8 is ; ME = 2 and DP =
121 121
DP cuts C8 at Q, DP is produced further to cut C8 again at R.
501840 30 501840 30
DQ = DP PQ = ; DR = DP + PR = +
121 121 121 121
Now invert C8 w.r.t C4 to give C9. This circle will touch C1, C2 and C6 externally.
DR intersects C9 at S, produce DR further to meet C9 again at T. Then
501840 30 501840 30
DSDR = 62 and DTDQ = 62 DS 36 and

DT 36

121 121
36 121 501840 30 36 121 501840 30
DS = = ; DT = =
501840 30 115 501840 30 115
501840 30 501840 30 12
ST = DT DS = = = diameter of C9
115 115 23
6
The radius of C9 is .
23
G8 Given that a, b, x and y are non-zero integers, where ax + by = 4, ax2 +by2 = 22, ax3 +by3 = 46
and ax4 + by4 = 178. Find the value of ax5 + by5.
11 23
Clearly x y, otherwise (2)(1): x = , (3) (2): x = , which is a contradiction
2 11
22 y 11
y(1) (2): x(y x)a = 4y 22 a = (5)
x y x
211 2 x
x(1) (2): y(x y)b = 4x 22 b = (6)
y y x
223 y 89
y(3) (4): x3(y x)a = 46y 178 a = 3 (7)
x y x
289 23x
x(3) (4): y3(x y)b = 46x 178 b = 3 (8)
y y x
22 y 11 223 y 89
(5) = (7): = 3
x y x x y x
x (2y 11) = 23y 89 (9)
2
211 2 x 289 23x

(6) = (8): = 3
y y x y y x
y (11 2x) = 89 23x (10)
2
(9) + (10): 11(y x)(y + x) 2xy(y x) = 23(y x)

11(x + y) 2xy = 23 (11)
By trail and error, a particular solution of the linear Diophantine equation is x + y = 1, xy = 6
The general solution of (11) is x + y = 1 + 2t, xy = 6 + 11t (*), where t is an integer.
x and y are the roots of the quadratic equation u2 (1 + 2t)u + (11t 6) = 0
= (1 + 2t)2 4(11t 6) = 4t2 40t + 25 = 4(t + 5)2 75
Given that x and y are integers
is a perfect squares
Let = 4(t + 5)2 75 = m2, where m is an integer.
(2t + 10 + m)(2t + 10 m) = 75
2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 3
(12) or (13) or (14)
2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 25
2t 10 m 25 2t 10 m 5 2t 10 m 15
or (15) or (16) or (17)
2t 10 m 3 2t 10 m 15 2t 10 m 5
2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 3
or (18) or (19) or (20)
2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 25
2t 10 m 25 2t 10 m 5 2t 10 m 15
or (21) or (22) or (23)
2t 10 m 3 2t 10 m 15 2t 10 m 5
Solution to (12) or (13) is t = 24
Sub. t = 24 into (*), x + y = 49, xy = 258 x = 43, y = 6
22 6 11
Sub. x = 43, y = 6 into (5): a = , not an integer, rejected
436 43
Sub. t = 12 into (*), x + y = 25, xy = 126 x = 18, y = 7

1982-2016
Hongkong Mathematics Olympiad

1982-2016
Teacher : Im Chhunhor
22 7 11
187 18
Sub. t = 10 into (*), x + y = 21, xy = 104 x = 13, y = 8
22 8 11
138 13
Sub. t = 14 into (*), x + y = 27, xy = 160 x = 32, y = 5
22 5 11
325 32
Sub. t = 2 into (*), x + y = 3, xy = 28 x = 4, y = 7
2 2 7 11
4 7 4
Sub. t = 0 into (*), x + y = 1, xy = 6 x = 3, y = 2
2 2 2 11
Sub. x = 3, y = 2 into (5): a = =2
3 2 3
211 2 3
Sub. x = 3, y = 2 into (6): b = =1
2 2 3
Check: Sub. a = 2, b = 1, x = 3, y = 2 into (1): ax + by = 23 + 1(2) = 4
Sub. a = 2, b = 1, x = 3, y = 2 into (2): ax2 + by2 = 232 + 1(2)2 = 22
Accept the answer. Now ax5 + by5 = 235 + 1(2)5 = 454
Method 2 ax + by = 4 (1), ax2 +by2 = 22 (2), ax3 +by3 = 46 (3), ax4 + by4 = 178 (4).
Let ax5 + by5 = m (5)
(x + y)(2): (x + y)(ax2 + by2) = 22(x + y)
ax3 + by3 + xy(ax + by) = 22(x + y)
Sub. (1) and (3): 46 + 4xy = 22(x + y) 23 + 2xy = 11(x + y) (6)
(x + y)(3): (x + y)(ax3 + by3) = 46(x + y)
ax4 + by4 + xy(ax2 + by2) = 46(x + y)
Sub. (2) and (4): 178 + 22xy = 46(x + y) 89 + 11xy = 23(x + y) (7)
11(7) 23(6): 450 + 75xy = 0 xy = 6 (8)
11(6) 2(7): 75(x + y) = 75 x + y = 1 (9)
(x + y)(4): (x + y)(ax4 + by4) = 178(x + y)
ax5 + by5 + xy(ax3 + by3) = 178(x + y)
Sub. (3) and (5): m + 46xy = 178(x + y)
Sub. (8) and (9): m + 46(6) = 1781
m = 454
G9 Given that, in the figure, ABC is an equilateral triangle
with AF = 2, FG = 10, GC = 1 and DE = 5. Find the
value of HI.
AF + FG + GC = 2 + 10 + 1 = 13
AB = BC = CA = 13 (property of equilateral triangle)
Let AD = x, then BE = 13 5 x = 8 x
Let HI = y, BH = z, then IC = 13 y z
ADAE = AFAG
x(x + 5) = 212
x2 + 5x 24 = 0
(x 3)(x + 8) = 0
x = 3 or 8 (rejected)
BE = 8 x = 5 A
BHBI = BEBD 2
F
x
z(z + y) = 510 = 50 (1) D
CICH = CGCF
(13 y z)(13 z) = 11 5
169 13(y + 2z) + z(y + z) = 11 (2) 10
Sub. (1) into (2): 169 13(y + 2z) + 50 = 11 E
y + 2z = 16 8-x
y = 16 2z (3) G
Sub. (3) into (1): z(z + 16 2z) = 50 1
2 z y C
z 16z + 50 = 0 B H I 13-y-z
z = 8 14 or 8 14
From (3), 2z 16 z 8 8 14 is rejected z = 8 14 only
HI = y = 16 2z = 16 2( 8 14 ) = 2 14
G10 Let an and bn be the x-intercepts of the quadratic function y = n(n 1)x2 (2n 1)x + 1,
where n is an integer greater than 1. Find the value of a2b2 + a3b3 + + a2015b2015.
Reference: 2005 HI5
The quadratic function can be written as y = (nx 1)[(n 1)x 1]
1 1
The x-intercepts are and .
n n 1
1 1 1
an bn = = for n > 1
nn 1 n 1 n
1 1 1 1 1
a2b2 + a3b3 + + a2015b2015 = 1
2 2 3 2014 2015
1 2014
=1 =
2015 2015
1. Construct an isosceles triangle which has the same base and height to the following triangle.
B E
3
4 4
A D C
Steps
(1) Construct the perpendicular bisector of AC, D is the mid point of AC.
(2) Copy ACB.
(3) Draw CBE so that it is equal to ACB, then BE // AE (alt. s eq.)
BE and the bisector in step 1 intersect at E.
(4) Join AE, CE.
Then AEC is the required isosceles triangle with AE = CE.
2. Given the following line segment MN represent a unit length, construct a line segment of
1
length .
5
G 4
6
7
5
1
H
E 2
F
3
C
8
M N
Steps
(1) Use N as centre, NM as radius to draw a circular arc.
(2) Use M as centre, MN as radius to draw a circular arc, cutting the arc in step 1 at E.
MNE is an equilateral triangle. MNE = 60
(3) Use E as centre, MN as radius to draw a circular arc, cutting the arc in step 1 at F.
FNE is an equilateral triangle. FNE = 60
(4) Use E as centre, NM as radius to draw a circular arc. Use F as centre, NM as radius to
draw a circular arc. The two arcs intersect at G. EFG is an equilateral triangle.
(5) Join NG and produce it longer. NG intersects the arc in step 1 at H.
NG is the bisector of ENF. MNG = 60 + 30 = 90
(6) Use H as centre, HN as radius to draw a semi-circle, cutting NG produced at A. AN = 2
(7) Join AM, cutting the semicircle in step (6) at C. AM = 12 2 2 = 5
(8) Join NC.
Then MC is the required length.
Proof: ACN = 90 ( in semi-circle)
It is easy to show that CMN ~ NMA (equiangular)
MC MN
(cor. sides, ~s)
MN AM
1
MC =
5
3. Construct a square whose area is equal to the difference between the areas of the following
two squares ABCD and PQRS.
5 F
G
CE = PQ E 6
3
2 7
4
1
4
C B
M R Q
S P
D A
Steps
(1) Draw the perpendicular bisector of BC , M is the mid-point of BC.
(2) Use M as centre, MB as radius to draw a semi-circle outside the square ABCD.
(3) Use C as centre, PQ as radius to draw an arc, cutting the semicircle in (2) at E.
(4) Join CE and produce it longer. Join BE. BEC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
(5) Use E as centre, BE as radius to draw an arc, cutting CE produced at F.
(6) Use B as centre, BE as radius to draw an arc. Use F as centre, FE as radius to draw an
arc. The two arcs intersect at G.
(7) Join FG and BG.
Then by Pythagoras theorem, BE2 = BC2 CE2; BEFG is the required square.
Answers: (2014-15 HKMO Final Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 4 March 2016
Individual Events
I1 10 I2 7 I3 *686 I4 3
see the remark
90 5 236328 2
10 2 *15 7
see the remark
15
2047 56 1
4
Group Events
3
G1 G2 417 G3 10 G4 1
5
15 23 0 625
1 5
34 3 1
2
3 5
15 12 3 10
2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If x 5 y 5 z 0 , determine = x2 + y2 + z2.
Reference: 2005 FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2009 FG1.4, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
Sum of non-negative terms = 0 each term = 0 at the same time
x + 5 = 0 and y 5 = 0 and z = 0
x = 5 and y = 5 and z = 0
= x2 + y2 + z2 = 5 + 5 + 0 = 10
I1.2 If is the sum of all digits of the product 11111

11 99999
99 , determine the value of .

1's 9's
Reference: 2000 FI4.4

Observe the patterns 11 99 = 1089; 111999 = 110889.
Deductively, 11111
11 99999
99 = 11111
11088888
889

10 1's 10 9's 9 1's 9 9's
= the sum of all digits = 9 + 98 + 9 = 90
I1.3 Suppose that the real function f (x) satisfies f (xy) = f (x) f (y) for all real numbers x and y, and
f (1) < 1. Determine the value of = f () + 100 .
f (1) = f (1) f (1) f (1)[f (1) 1] = 0 f (1) = 0 or 1 (rejected)
f (1) = 0
f (x) = f (1x) = f (1)f (x) = 0 for all real values of x.
= f () + 100 = 0 + 100 90 = 10
I1.4 If n is a positive integer and f (n) = 2n + 2n1 + 2n2 + + 22 + 21 + 1,

determine the value of = f ().
f (n) = 2n+1 1 (sum to n terms of a G.S. a = 1, r = 2, no. of terms = n + 1)
= f (10) = 211 1 = 2047
Individual Event 2
x y z 1

I2.1 If x0, y0, z0 is a solution to the simultaneous equations below, y x z 2
z x y 4

determine the value of = x0 + y0 + z0.
(1) + (2) + (3): (x + y + z) = 7
=7
I2.2 If is the reminder of 111
111
, determine the value of .
100 1's
1111117 = 15873
111
111
= 111
0000 1111
111

100 1' s 96 1' s
= 7m + 7158 + 5, where m is an integer

=5
I2.3 If is the remainder of [( 2)100 + 50 + ( + 2)25] 3, determine the value of .
3100 + 550 + 725 = 3100 + (6 1)50 + (6 + 1)25
= 3100 + 6n + 1 + 6m + 1, where m and n are integers
=2
I2.4 If the equation x4 + ax2 + bx + = 0 has four real roots with three of them being 1, and 2,
determine the value of .
Let the fourth root be t.
coefficient of x 3
1 + 2 + 22 + t = sum of roots = =0
coefficient of x 4
t = 7
constant term
1222(7) = product of roots = =
coefficient of x 4
= 56
Individual Event 3
I3.1 Of the positive integers from 1 to 1000, including 1 and 1000, there are of them that are not
divisible by 5 or 7. Determine the value of .
Reference: 1993 FG8.3-4, 1994 FG8.1-2, 1998 HI6
Numbers divisible by 5: 5, 10, 15, , 1000, there are 200 numbers
Numbers divisible by 35: 35, 70, , 980, there are 28 numbers
Numbers divisible by 5 or 7 = 200 + 142 28 = 314
Numbers that are not divisible by 5 or 7 = 1000 314 = 686
Remark: The original question is:
Of the positive integers from 1 to 1000, including 1 and 1000, there are of them that are not
divisible by 5 or not divisible by 7. Determine the value of .
numbers not divisible by 5 numbers not divisible by 7 numbers not divisible by 5 or 7 numbers not divisible by 5 and 7
5 7 5 7 5 7 5 7
numbers neither divisible by 5 nor 7 numbers not divisible by 5 or not

numbers not divisible by 5 and divisible by 7
numbers not divisible by 7

I3.2 Determine the value of = 12 22 + 32 4 + + (1) ( + 1) . 2 2
Reference: 1997 HI5, 2002 FG2.3, 2004 HI1, 2015 FG4.1

12 22 + 32 42 + + 6852 6862 + 6872
= (12 22) + (32 42) + + (6852 6862) + 6872
= (1 + 2)(1 2) + (3 + 4)(3 4) + + (685 + 686)(685 686) + 6872
= 3 7 1371 + 6872 (sum of 343 terms of A.P., common difference = 4)
3 1371
= 343 + 471969
2
= 236328
I3.3 If is the remainder of divided by the 1993rd term of the following sequence:
1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, . Determine the value of .
1 62
1 + 2 + 3 + + 62 = 62 = 1953 and 1993 1953 = 40 < 63
2
The 1993rd term of the sequence is 63.
236328 63, by division, the remainder is 15.
Determine the remainder of divided by the 1993rd term of the following sequence:
1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, . is not mentioned.
1
I3.4 In the figure below, BE = AC, BD = and DE + BC = 1. B
2
If is times the length of ED, determine the value of .
Let DE = x, BE = y
Then AC = y, BC = 1 x
It is easy to show that BED ~ BCA (equiangular)
DE AC x y E D
(cor. sides, ~ s) y2 = x(1 x)
BE BC y 1 x
2 2 2
BE + DE = BD (Pythagoras theorem)
1 1 1
y2 + x2 = x(1 x) + x2 = x = C A
4 4 4
15
=
4
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Let be the remainder of 21000 divided by 13, determine the value of .
Reference: 1972 American High School Mathematics Examination Q31, 2011 HI1
135 = 64 + 1 26 = 135 1
21000 = 242996 = 16(26)166 = (13 + 3)(135 1)166
= (13 + 3)(13m + 1), by using binomial theorem
= 13n + 3, where n and m are integers
=3
7 4 7 4
1 1
2 2
I4.2 Determine the value of = .

7 4 3 = 7 2 12 = 4 3 2 4 3 = 4 3 = 2 3
7 4 3 =2 3
7 4 3 7 4 3
1 1
2 2 2 32 3
= = =2
3 3
I4.3 If f (a) = a and F(a, b) = b2 + a, determine the value of = F(3, f (4)).
Reference: 1985 FI3.3, 1990 HI3, 2013 FI3.2
f (4) = 4 2 = 2
= F(3, f (4)) = F(3, 2) = 22 + 3 = 7
log x
I4.4 If is the product of all real roots of x 10 , determine the value of .
10
log 7 x
x
log7 x log x = log 10
log x 2 1
log 7
log x = log 7
x = 10 log 7
or 10 log 7
Product of roots = 10 log 7

10 log 7
=1
Group Event 1
1
1 3 9 2 6 18 n 3n 9n 3
G1.1 Simplify .
1 5 25 2 10 50 n 5n 25n
1
1 3 9 2 6 18 n 3n 9n 3

1 5 25 2 10 50 n 5n 25n

1
33 13 23 n3 3
= 3 3

5 1 2 n
3 3

3
=
5
G1.2 Among 50 school teams joining the HKMO, no team answered all four questions correctly in
the paper of a group event. If the first question was solved by 45 teams, the second by 40
teams, the third by 35 teams and the fourth by 30 teams. How many teams solved both the
third and the fourth questions?
No team answered all four questions correctly
Each team can solve at most three questions.
The maximum number of solved questions = 503 = 150
The actual number of solved questions = 45 + 40 + 35 + 30 = 150
Each team can solve exactly three questions.
Number of teams that cannot solve the first question = (50 45) teams = 5 teams
These 5 teams can solve Q2, Q3 and Q4 but not Q1.
Number of teams that cannot solve the second question = (50 40) teams =10 teams
Number of teams that cannot solve the third question = (50 35) teams = 15 teams
Number of teams that cannot solve the fourth question = (50 30) teams = 20 teams
Number of school teams solved both the third and the fourth questions = 5 + 10 = 15
Remark We cannot use the Venn diagram on the right with
Q1(corre ct) Q2(corre ct)
explanation below:
x = school teams that can solve Q1 but not Q2, Q3 nor Q4. x y
y = school teams that can solve Q1, Q2 but not Q3 nor Q4.
z = school teams that can solve all four questions.
t = school teams that can solve Q1, Q3 and Q4 but not Q2 z
However, we could not find any part in Venn diagram
representing school teams that can solve Q1, Q4 but not Q2 t
nor Q3 !!!
Q3(corre ct)Q4(corre ct)
G1.3 Let n be the product 3659893456789325678 and 342973489379256. Determine the number
of digits of n. (Reference: 2013 FG4.1)
Let x = 3 659 893 456 789 325 678, y = 342 973 489 379 256
x = 3.71018, y = 3.41014 (correct to 2 sig. fig.)
n = xy = 3.710183.41014 = 12.581032 = 1.2581033
The number of digits of n is 34.
G1.4 Three circles of radii 2, 3 and 10 units are placed inside another big circle in such a way that
all circles are touching one another. Determine the value of the radius of the big circle.
C4
C1
C2 H
3 B
3 B 5-y
H 3 Q r-3
D
3 r-2 O
y r - 10
E 10 A
10
2 2 C P 12 - x G
I x
2
C 2 F 10 A
I
C3
10
G
Let A be the centre of circle C1 with radius 10, B be the centre of circle C2 with radius 3, C be the
centre of circle C3 with radius 2. Join AB, BC, AC.
Suppose C1 and C2 touch each other at D, C2 and C3 touch each other at E, C3 and C1 touch each
other at F. Then A, D, B are collinear, B, E, C are collinear, C, F, A are collinear.
AB = 10 + 3 = 13, BC = 3 + 2 = 5, AC = 10 + 2 = 12
BC2 + AC2 = 52 + 122 = 25 + 144 = 169 = 132 = AB2
ACB = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
Let O be the centre of circle C4 with radius r circumscribing all three circles C1, C2, C3 at G, H and I
respectively. Then O, A, G are collinear, O, B, H are collinear, O, C, I are collinear.
AG = 10, BH = 3, CI = 2, OA = r 10, OB = r 3, OC = r 2.
Let P and Q be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from O onto AC and AB respectively.
Then OPCQ is a rectangle.
Let CP = x = QO (opp. sides of rectangle), CQ = y = PO (opp. sides of rectangle)
AP = 12 x, BQ = 5 y.
In OCP, x2 + y2 = (r 2)2 (1) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OAP, (12 x)2 + y2 = (r 10)2 (2) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OBQ, x2 + (5 y)2 = (r 3)2 (3) (Pythagoras theorem)
2r 6
(1) (2): 24x 144 = 16r 96 x = (4)
3
r 10
(1) (3): 10y 25 = 2r 5 y = (5)
5
2 2
2r 6 r 10
r 2
2
Sub. (4) and (5) into (1):
3 5
25(4r + 24r + 36) + 9(r + 20r + 100) = 225(r2 4r + 4)
2 2
116r2 1680r 900 = 0 29r2 420r 225 = 0

(r 15)(29r + 15) = 0 r = 15, the radius of the big circle is 15.
Group Event 2
G2.1 On a 33 grid of 9 squares, each squares is to be painted with either Red or Blue. If is the
total number of possible colouring in which no 22 grid consists of only Red squares,
If there is no restriction, number of possible colouring = 29 = 512
(1)If all 9 squares are painted as red, number of colouring = 1
(2)If there are exactly three 22 grid consists of only Red squares, possible pattern may be:
RRB 90 rotation gives another possible pattern
RRR Number of colouring = 4
RRR
(3)If there are exactly two 22 grid consists of only Red squares, possible pattern may be:
BRR Number of colouring = 2
RRB
RRR
RRR
RRB
BRR
(4)
90 rotation gives
RRR RRR RRB RRB RRB
another possible pattern
RRB RRB RRR RRB RRB
Number of colouring
RRR RRB RRB RRR RRB
= 45 = 20
(5)If there is exactly one 22 grid consists of only Red squares, possible pattern may be:
BBB 90 rotation gives
RRB another possible pattern
RRB Number of colouring = 4
(6)
RBB 90 rotation gives
BRB BBR BBB BBB
RRB RRB RRR RRB
RRB Number of colouring
RRB RRB RRB RRR
(7) = 45 = 20
RBR 90 rotation gives
RBB RBB BRR BRB
RRR RRB RRB RRR
RRB RRR RRB RRB
(8) = 45 = 20
BRB 90 rotation gives
BBR BBR
RRR RRB
RRR Number of colouring
RRB RRR
(9) = 43 = 12
90 rotation gives
BRR RBR RBR
RRB RRB RRR
Number of colouring
RRR RRR RRB
= 43 = 12
Total number of possible colouring in which no 22 grid consists of only Red squares
= No restriction all 9 red squares exactly 3 22 red grid exactly 2 22 red grid exactly 1 22 red grid
= 512 1 4 2 20 4 20 20 12 12 = 417
Method 2 (a)All 9 blue squares = 1 pattern. (b)8 blue squares + 1 red squares = 9 patterns.
(c)7B+2R = C29 = 36 patterns, (d)6B+3R = C39 = 84 patterns, (e)5B+4R = C49 4 = 122 patterns
(f)4B+5R = C59 4 5 = 106 patterns, (g)3B+6R = C69 4 C25 4 = 48 patterns
(h)2B+7R = 8 + 2 = 10 patterns, (i)1B+8R = 1 pattern
Total number of different patterns = 1 + 9 + 36 + 84 + 122 + 106 + 48 + 10 + 1 = 417
G2.2 If the sum of 25 consecutive positive integers is the product of 3 prime numbers, what is the
minimum sum of these 3 prime numbers?
Let the smallest positive integer be x. We use the formula: S(n) = 2a n 1d .
n
2
25
2 x 24 1 = 25(x + 12) = 55(x + 12) = product of 3 prime numbers
2
The minimum prime for x + 12 is 13. The minimum sum of these 3 prime numbers is 23.
G2.3 Determine the sum of all real roots of the following equation |x + 3| |x 1| = x + 1.
When x 3, the equation becomes x 3 (1 x) = x + 1 x = 5
When 3 < x 1, the equation becomes x + 3 (1 x) = x + 1 x = 1
When 1 < x, the equation becomes x + 3 (x 1) = x + 1 x = 3
Sum of all real roots = 5 + (1) + 3 = 3
A graph is given below:
y
G2.4 In the figure below, there are 4 identical circles placed

inside an equilateral triangle. If the radii of the circles are
1 unit, what is the value of the area of the triangle?
Let the triangle be ABC, O is the centre of the middle
circle, D, E, F are the centres of the other 3 circles
respectively. Let P, Q, R, S, T, U be the points of contact
as shown.
DP AB, EQ AB, ER BC, FS BC, FT AC,
DU AC (tangent radius)
DP = EQ = ER = FS = FT = DU = 1 (radii) A
OD = OE = OF = 2 (radii 1 + radii 1)
ODE OEF OFD (S.S.S.)
P U
DOE = EOF = FOD (corr. s s)
D
DOE + EOF + FOD = 360 (s at a point)
DOE = EOF = FOD = 120
DPQE, ERSF, FTUD are rectangles (opp. sides are eq. and //)
O T
DE = EF = FD = 22 sin 60 = 2 3 =PQ =RS = TU Q
In ADU, DAU = 30, DU = 1, DU AU, E F
AU = 1 tan 60 = 3 B R S C
AB = BC = CA = 2 3 + 2 3 = 4 3
1
2
Area of ABC = 4 3 sin 60 = 12 3
2
Group Event 3
G3.1 Simplify 3 5 3 5 .
Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2
3 5 =
62 5
2
=
1
2
5 2 5 1 =
1
2
5 1
3 5 =
62 5
2
=
1
2
5 2 5 1 =
1
2
5 1
3 5 3 5 =
1
2
5 1 +
1

2

5 1 =
1
2

2 5 = 10
G3.2 Let p be a prime and m be an integer. If p(p + m) + 2p = (m + 2)3, find the greatest possible
value of m.
p(p + m + 2) = (m + 2)3
If m is even and p is odd, then odd(odd + even + 2) = (even + 2)3 LHS RHS !!!
If m is odd and p is odd, then odd(odd + odd + 2) = (odd + 2)3 LHS RHS !!!
In all cases, p must be even.
the only even prime is 2 p = 2
2(m + 4) = (m + 2)3
LHS is even (m+2)3 is evenm + 2 is evenRHS is divisible by 8LHS is divisible by 8
m + 4 = 4n, where n is an integer m + 2 = 4n 2
Put m + 2 = 4n 2 into the equation: 2(4n) = (4n 2)3
n = (2n 1)3
n = 1, m = 0 (This is the only solution, n < (2n 1)3 for n > 1 and n > (2n 1)3 for n < 1)
1 1
1 2 1 2
G3.3 Determine a root to x = x 1 .
x x
2 2
1 1 1 1
x 1 x x 1 x
x x x x
1 1 1
x2 2x 1 1 x
x x x

x2 x 1 2 x2 x x2 x 2 x2 x 1 0
x 2

2
x 1 0
x 2 x = 1 x2 x 1 = 0
1 5 1 5
x= or (rejected as x > 0)
2 2
G3.4 In the figure below, the area of each small triangle is 1. A
Determine the value of the area of the triangle ABC.
Total number of equilateral triangles = 24
Area of ABC
1 1 1 C
= 24 4 6 1 4 6
2 2 2
= 10
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let b = 12 22 + 32 42 + 52 20122 + 20132.
Reference: 1997 HI5, 2002 FG2.3, 2004 HI1, 2015 FI3.2
Determine the remainder of b divided by 2015.
b = 1 + (3 2)(3 + 2) + (5 4)(5 + 4) + + (2013 2012)(2012 + 2013)
b = 1 + 5 + 9 + + 4025
This an arithmetic series, a = 1, d = 4, 1 + (n 1)4 = 4025 n = 1007
1007
b= 1 4025 = 10072013 = 1007(2015 2) = 10072015 2014 = 10062015 + 1
2
Remainder = 1
G4.2 There are positive integers with leading digits being 6 and upon removing this leading digit,
1
the resulting integer is of the original value. Determine the least of such positive
25
integers.
Let the original number be x.
1
x = 610n + y, where y < 10n and y = x
25
1
x = 610n + x
25
24x = 15010n
4x = 2510n
4 is not a factor of 25, so 4 must be a factor of 10n
Least possible n = 2
The least positive x is 251024 = 625
1 1
G4.3 If x 1 , determine the value of x5 5 .
x x
2
1 1 1
x 1 x 2 2 1 x 2 1
2 2
x x x
1 2 1 1 1 1
x x 2 1 1 1 x 3 x 1 x 3 = 2
3 3
x x x x x
2 1 3 1 1 1 1
x 2 x 3 1 2 2 x 5 x 2 x 5 = 1
5 5
x x x x x

G4.4 In the figure below, when triangle A shifts units to the right, the area of shaded region is
L

times of the total area of the triangles A and B. Determine the value of .
L

D K H
A B
E G F I L J M
L L-
Let the original triangle be DEF. G is a point on EF with EF = L.
DEG is translated to HIJ by units, DEG HIJ, DGF KLM, EF = L, HK = .
Let HI intersects KM at N, IM = L
Consider DEF in the left figure and NIM in the right figure.
DEF = NIM (corr. s, DE // HI)
DFE = NMI (corr. s, DF // KM)
DEF ~ NIM (equiangular)
2
S NIM L
= (ratio of areas of ~s)
S DEF L
2
S NIM
= 1 (Given = )
L L S DEF L
2 2

3 1 0 , this is a quadratic equation in .
L L L
3 5 3 5
= or
L 2 2
3 5
From the figure, < 1 and >1
L 2
3 5
= only
L 2
19
13-14 1 2 12 3 120 4 193 5 90
121
Individual *107 *14
6 See the remark
7 1 8 8 9 See the remark
10 15
65
1 5 2 23 3 4 15 4 2 5 49
13-14 144
Group 29
16 3+ 5
6 (=7.25) 7 1 8 1584 9 3 10
4 3 2
Individual Events
ab
=2
a + b
bc a
I1 Given that a, b, c > 0 and = 3 . Find the value of .
b + c bc
ca
=5
c + a
a+ b 1
= LL(1)
= 1 1 1
+
ab 2 b a 2

b + c 1
= LL(2)
1 1 1
= +
bc 3 c b 3
c+ a 1
= LL(3)
1 1 1
= +
ca 5 a c 5
2 19 3600
(1) + (2) (3): = b=
b 30 361
2 11 3600
(1) + (3) (2): = a=
a 30 121
2 1
(2) + (3) (1): = c = 3600
c 30
a 3600 361 19
= 2
=
bc 121 3600 121
I2 Given that a = 2014x + 2011, b = 2014x + 2013 and c = 2014x + 2015.

Find the value of a2 + b2 + c2 ab bc ca.
a2 + b2 + c2 ab bc ca
=
1
2
[
(a c )2 + (c b )2 + (b a )2 ]
[
= (2014 x + 2011 2014 x 2015)2 + (2014 x + 2015 2014 x 2013)2 + (2014 x + 2013 2014 x 2011)2
1
2
]
=
1
2
[ ]
( 4 )2 + 2 2 + 2 2 = 12
I3 As shown in Figure 1, a point T lies in an equilateral

triangle PQR such that TP = 3, TQ = 3 3 and TR = 6.
Find PTR.
Rotate PTR anticlockwise by 60 to QSR.
Then PTR QSR, SR = 6 and SRT = 60
Consider TRS,
SR = 6 = TR
TRS is isosceles.
SRT = 60
RTS = RST = 60 (s sum of isos. ) P
TRS is an equilateral triangle
TS = 6
Consider TQS, 3
QS2 + QT2 = 32 + ( 3 3 )2 = 9 + 27 = 36 = 62 = TS2 T
TQS = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
3 3 6
tan TSQ = = 3 3 3
3
TSQ = 60 60
QSR = TSQ + RST = 60 + 60 = 120 Q R
PTR = QSR = 120 (corr. s, PTR QSR) 3 6
S
Reference: http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Geometry/construction/others/345.pdf
I4 Let and be the roots of the quadratic equation x2 14x + 1 = 0.
2 2
Find the value of + .
2 + 1 2 + 1
2 + 1 = 14; 2 + 1 = 14; + = 14 and = 1
2 + 2 = ( + )2 2 = 196 2 = 194
2
+
2
= + = =
(
14 1 14 1 196 2 14 + 196 2 14 196 2 + 2 14 2
= 193
)
2 + 1 2 + 1 14 14 196 196
Reference: 2002 HI6
AC2 = 102 + 112 21110 cos B ...............(1)
AC2 = 52 + 142 2514 cos D ...................(2)
(1) = (2): 221 220 cosB = 221 140 cosD (3)
cos D = cos B
(3): (220 + 140) cos B = 0 B = 90 = D
1 1
= 11 10 + 5 14 = 90
2 2
I6 Let n be a positive integer and n < 1000. If (n2014 1) is divisible by (n 1)2,

find the maximum value of n.
Let p = 2014.
( )
n p 1 (n 1) n p 1 + n p 2 + L + n + 1 n p 1 + n p 2 + L + n + 1
= =
(n 1)2 (n 1)2 n 1
=
(n ) ( )
1 + n p 2 1 + L + (n 1) + p
p 1
n 1
p 1 p 2
n 1 n 1 p
= + +L+1+
n 1 n 1 n 1
Clearly n 1 are factors of n 1, np2 1, , n 1.
p1
n p 1 1 n p 2 1
+ + L + 1 is an integer.
n 1 n 1
p 2014 2 19 53
= = is an integer
n 1 n 1 n 1
The largest value of n 1 is 253 = 106.
i.e. The maximum value of n = 107.
Remark: The original question is Let n be a positive number and n < 1000. If (n2014 1) is
divisible by (n 1)2, find the maximum value of n. n n < 1000
Note that n must be an integer for divisibility question.
I7 If x3 + x2 + x + 1 = 0,
find the value of x2014 + x2013 + x2012 + + x1 + 1 + x + x2 + + x2013 + x2014.
The given equation can be factorised as (1 + x)(1 + x2) = 0 x = 1 or i
x2014 + x2013 + x2012 + + x1 + 1 + x + x2 + + x2013 + x2014
= x2014(1 + x + x2 + x3) + + x6(1 + x + x2 + x3) + x2 + x1 + 1 + x + x2 + x3(1 + x + x2 + x3)
+ + x2011(1 + x + x2 + x3)
= x2 + x1 + 1 + x + x2 = x2(1 + x + x2 + x3) + x2 = x2
When x = 1, x2 = 1; when x = i, x2 = 1
I8 Let xy = 10x + y. If xy + yx is a square number, how many numbers of this kind exist?
xy + yx = 10x + y + 10y + x = 10(x + y) + x + y = 11(x + y)
Clearly x and y are integers ranging from 1 to 9.
2 x + y 18.
In order that xy + yx = 11(x + y) is a square number, x + y = 11
(x, y) = (2, 9), (3, 8), (4, 7), (5, 6), (6, 5), (7, 4), (8, 3) or (9, 2).
There are 8 possible numbers.
I9 Given that x, y and z are positive real numbers such that xyz = 64.
If S = x + y + z, find the value of S when 4x2 + 2xy + y2 + 6z is a minimum.
4x2 + 2xy + y2 + 6z = 4x2 4xy + y2 + 6xy + 6z
= (2x y)2 + 6(xy + z)
0 + 6 2 xyz (A.M. G.M.)
= 96
When 4x2 + 2xy + y2 + 6z is a minimum, 2x y = 0 and xy = z
y = 2x, z = 2x2
Q xyz = 64
x(2x)(2x2) = 64 x4 = 16
x = 2, y = 4, z = 8 S = 2 + 4 + 8 = 14
Remark: The original question is: Given that x, y and z are real numbers such that xyz =64
Note that the steps in inequality fails if xy < 0 and z < 0.
I10 Given that ABC is an acute triangle, where A > B > C.

If x is the minimum of A B, B C and 90 A, find the maximum value of x.
In order to attain the maximum value of x, the values of A B, B C and 90 A
must be equal.
A B = B C = 90 A
2B = A + C (1)
2A = 90 + B (2)
A + B + C = 180 (3) (s sum of )
Sub. (1) into (3), 3B = 180
B = 60 (4)
Sub. (4) into (2): 2A = 90 + 60
A = 75 (5)
Sub. (4) and (5) into (1): 2(60) = 75 + C
C = 45
The maximum value of x = 75 60 = 15
Method 2
90 A x
90 A + A + B + C 180 + x (s sum of )
B + C 90 + x (1)
Q B C x (2)
((1) + (2))2: B 45 + x (3)
Q A B x (4)
(3) + (4): A 45 + 2x (5)
90 A x
90 x A
90 x A 45 + 2x by (5)
90 x 45 + 2x
45 3x
15 x
The maximum value of x is 15.
Group Events
G1 Given that 2014 x 2 2004 x 2 = 2 , find the value of 2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2 .
( 2014 x 2
2004 x 2 ) ( 2014 x 2
+ 2004 x 2 )= 2
2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2
( ) (
2014 x 2 2004 x 2
=2
)
2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2
10 = 2( 2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2 )
2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2 = 5
G2 Figure 1 shows a ABC, AB = 32, AC = 15 and

BC = x, where x is a positive integer. If there are
points D and E lying on AB and AC respectively
such that AD = DE = EC = y, where y is a positive
integer. Find the value of x.
Let BAC = , AE = 15 y, y = 1, 2, , 14.
Apply triangle inequality on ADE, y + y > 15 y
y > 5 LL (1)
AED = (base s, isos. )
By drawing a perpendicular bisector of AE,
15 y
cos = LL (2)
2y
Apply cosine formula on ABC,
x2 = 152 + 322 2(15)(32)cos
15 y
x2 = 1249 480 by (2)
y
7200
x2 = 1729 LL (3)
y
Q x is a positive integer
x2 is a positive integer
7200
is a positive integer.
y
y is a positive factor of 7200 and y = 6, 7, 8, , 14 by (1) and (3)
y = 6, 8, 9, 10 or 12.
When y = 6, x2 = 1729 1200 = 529 x = 23, accepted.
When y = 8, x2 = 1729 900 = 829, which is not a perfect square, rejected.
Conclusion, x = 23
7
G3 If 0 180 and cos + sin = , find the value of cos + cos3 + cos5 + .
13
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1993 HG10, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4
7
cos + sin = (1)
13
49
(cos + sin )2 =
169
49
cos2 + 2 sin cos + sin2 =
169
49
1 + 2 sin cos =
169
120
2 sin cos = (*)
169
120
2 sin cos =
169
289
1 2 sin cos =
169
289
cos2 2 sin cos + sin2 =
169
289
(cos sin )2 =
169
17 17
cos sin = or
13 13
From (1), sin cos < 0 and 0 180
cos < 0 and sin > 0
17
cos sin = (2)
13
10
(1) + (2): 2 cos =
13
5
cos =
13
5

cos 65
cos + cos3 + cos5 + = = 13 =
1 cos
2
25 144
1
169
G4 As shown in Figure 2, ABCD is a square. P is a point lies in

A
ABCD such that AP = 2 cm, BP = 1 cm and APB = 105. If D
CP2 + DP2 = x cm2, find the value of x.
Reference: 1999 HG10
Let CP =c cm, DP = d cm 2 cm
Rotate AP about A in clockwise direction by 90 to AR.
Rotate BP about B in anticlockwise direction by 90 to BQ.
Join PR, PQ. 105 P
AR = AP = 2cm, PAR = 90, BQ = BP = 1cm, PBQ = 90
APR and BPQ are right angled isosceles triangles. 1 cm
APR = 45, BPQ = 45 B C
PR = 2 2 cm, PQ = 2 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
APQ = 105 45 = 60, BPR = 105 45 = 60
Apply cosine formula on BPR and APQ.
( ) ( )
BR2 = 2 2 + 12 2(1) 2 2 cos 60 o = 9 2 2 cm2
2
= ( 2) + 2 2(2)( 2 )cos 60 = 6 2
2
AQ2 2 o
2 cm2
Consider ABQ and CBP,
BQ = BP = 1 cm (by construction)
A
ABQ = 90 ABP D
= CBP
AB = BC (sides of a square)
ABQ CBP (S.A.S.) 2 cm
R
CP2 = AQ2 = 6 2 2 cm2 (corr. sides, s)
Consider ABR and ADP, Q
AR = AP = 2 cm (by construction) P
RAB = 90 BAP
1 cm
= PAD
AB = AD (sides of a square) B C
ABR ADP (S.A.S.)
DP2 = BR2 = 9 2 2 cm2 (corr. sides, s)
x = 6 2 2 + 9 2 2 = 15 4 2
G5 If x, y are real numbers and x2 + 3y2 = 6x + 7, find the maximum value of x2 + y2.
1
(
x2 + 3y2 = 6x + 7 (x 3)2 + 3y2 = 16 (1) and y2 = x 2 + 6 x + 7 (2)
3
)
2 2
Sub. (2) into x + y :
3
1
3
[(
1
3
) ]
x2 + y2 = (3 x 2 x 2 + 6 x + 7 ) = (2 x 2 + 6 x + 7 ) = 2 x 2 + 3 x + 7
1
3
[ ] [ 3
2
]
= 2(x 2 + 3 x + 1.5 2 ) 2 1.5 2 + 7 = 2( x + 1.5) + 2.5 = ( x + 1.5) +
1 1 2
3
2 5
6
2 2
From (1), 3y = 16 (x 3) 0
4 x 3 4
1 x 7
0.5 x + 1.5 8.5
0.25 (x + 1.5)2 72.25
( x + 1 .5 )
1 2 2 289
6 3 6
1 ( x + 1 .5 ) +
2 5 289 5
+ = 49 The maximum value of x2 + y2 is 49.
2
3 6 6 6
G6 As shown in Figure 3, X, Y and Z are points on

BC, CA and AB of ABC respectively such that
AZY = BZX, BXZ = CXY and
CYX = AYZ. If AB = 10, BC = 6 and CA = 9,
find the length of AZ.
Let AZY = , BXZ = and CYX = .
ZXY = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line)
XYZ = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line) C
YZX = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line) b-tc
Y
ZXY + XYZ + YZX = 180 (s sum of ) X

180 2 + 180 2 + 180 2 = 180 tc
+ + = 180 (1)
In CXY, C + + = 180 (s sum of )

C = 180 ( + ) = by (1)
A tb Z c-tb B
Similarly, B = , A =
AYZ ~ ABC, BXZ ~ BAC, CXY ~ CAB (equiangular)
Let BC = a, CA = b, AB = c.
AZ AY
= = t (corr. sides, ~s), where t is the proportional constant
AC AB
AZ AY
= = t AZ = bt, AY = ct
b c
BZ = AB AZ = c tb; CY = AC AY = b tc
BZ BX
= (corr. sides, ~s)
BC AB
c tb BX c 2 bct
= BX = (1)
a c a
CY CX
= (corr. sides, ~s)
BC AC
b tc CX b 2 bct
= CX = (2)
a b a
BX + CX = BC
c 2 bct b 2 bct
+ =a by (1) and (2)
a a
b2 + c2 2bct = a2
b 2 + c 2 a 2 9 2 + 10 2 6 2 145 29
AZ = tb = = = = (= 7.25)
2c 2 10 20 4
Method 2
Join AX, BY, CZ.
C
Let AZY = , BXZ = and CYX = . Y
ZXY = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line) X

XYZ = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line)
qp
YZX = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line)
ZXY + XYZ + YZX = 180 (s sum of )
180 2 + 180 2 + 180 2 = 180 A Z B
+ + = 180 (1)
In CXY, C + + = 180 (s sum of )
C = 180 ( + ) = by (1)
ABXY, BCYZ, CAZX are cyclic quadrilaterals (ext. = int. opp. )
Let XZC = p, YZC = q.
Then XBY = CBY = CZY = q (s in the same segment)
XAY = XAC = XZC = p (s in the same segment)
But XAY = XBY (s in the same segment)
p=q
On the straight line AZB, + q + p + = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
AZC = BZC = 90
i.e. CZ is an altitude of ABC.
b 2 + c 2 a 2 9 2 + 10 2 6 2 145 29
By cosine formula, cos A = = = =
2bc 2 9 10 180 36
29 29
AZ = AC cos A = 9 =
36 4
G7 Given that a, b, c and d are four distinct numbers, where (a +c)(a +d)= 1 and (b +c)(b +d)= 1.
Find the value of (a + c)(b + c). (Reference: 2002 HI7, 2006 HG6, 2009 FI3.3)
a 2 + ac + ad + cd = 1 LL (1)
2
b + bc + bd + cd = 1 LL (2 )
(1) (2): a2 b2 + (a b)c + (a b)d = 0

(a b)(a + b + c + d) = 0
Qab0a+b+c+d=0
b + c = (a + d)
(a + c)(b + c) = (a + c)(a + d) = 1
G8 Let a1 = 215, a2 = 2014 and an+2 = 3an+1 2an, where n is a positive integer.
Find the value of a2014 2a2013.
an+2 = 3an+1 2an an+2 2an+1 = an+1 2an
a2014 2a2013 = a2013 2a2012 = a2012 2a2011 = LL = a2 2a1 = 2014 2(215) = 1584
8
G9 Given that the minimum value of the function y = sin2 x 4 sin x + m is .
3
Find the minimum value of my.
y = sin2 x 4 sin x + m = (sin x 2)2 + m 4
m 3 (sin x 2)2 + m 4 m + 5
8
m3=
3
1
m=
3
8 16
y
3 3
8 16
8
1 3 1 3
33 = m
y
3 3
16
16
1 3
The minimum value of my is = 3 3 .
3
90o
G10 Given that tan ( )
tan 90o tan x = 1 and 1 < tan x < 3. Find the value of tan x.
tan x
90 o 90o 90o
+ 90 o tan x = 90 o or + 90o tan x = 270o or + 90o tan x = 90o (2m + 1) , m Z
tan x tan x tan x
1 1 1
+ tan x = 1 or + tan x = 3 or + tan x = 2m + 1
tan x tan x tan x
tan2 x tan x + 1 = 0 or tan2 x 3tan x + 1 = 0 or tan2 x (2m + 1)tan x + 1 = 0
= 3 < 0, no solution or tan x =

3 5
or
2m + 1 (2m + 1)2 4
2 2
3+ 5 3 5
Q 1 < tan x < 3 and 2.6, 0.4
2 2
3+ 5
tan x = only
2
1. Figure 1 shows a ABC. Construct a circle with centre O inside the triangle such that the three
sides of the triangle are tangents to the circle.
The steps are as follows: (The question is the same as 2009 construction sample paper Q1)
(1) Draw the bisector of BAC. B
(2) Draw the bisector of ACB. T 3 S
4
O is the intersection of the two angle 4
1
bisectors. O 2
4
(3) Join BO.
A
(4) Let R, S, T be the feet of perpendiculars R
C
from O onto AC, BC and AB respectively.
AOT AOR (A.A.S.) B
COS COR (A.A.S.) T S
OT = OR = OS (Corr. sides, 's)

5
BOT BOS (R.H.S.) O
OBT = OBS (Corr. s, 's) A

R
BO is the angle bisector of ABC. C
The three angle bisectors are concurrent at one

point.
(5) Using O as centre, OR as radius to draw a
circle. This circle touches ABC internally
at R, S, and T. It is called the inscribed
circle.
2. Figure 2 shows a rectangle PQRS. Construct a square of area equal to that of a rectangle.
Reference: http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Geometry/construction/others/rectangle_into_rectangle.pdf
PQRS PQ = aQR = b
3 D c 5
E
(1) R RS QR
G P
(2) QG O QG S 1
(3) O OQ RS a 2
D QDDG
(4) R RD QR Q b O R G 4 F
F
(5) F FR D
DR E
(6) DEFE
GDQ = 90 ()
RG = RS = a
DRG ~ QRD ()
RG DR
= ()
DR QR
DR2 = ab (1)
RF = DR = DE = EF ()
DRF = 90 ()
DEFR PQRS ((1))
3. Figure 3 shows two line segments AB and AC intersecting at the point A. Construct two
circles of different sizes between them such that
(i) They touch each other at a point; and
(ii) the lines AB and AC are tangents to both circles.
A AB AC
(i)
(ii) AB AC
B
E
3
4
1
A G P H 6
Steps (Assume that BAC < 180, otherwise we cannot construct the circles touching BAC.)
(1) Draw the angle bisector AH of BAC.
(2) Choose any point P on AH. Construct a line through P and perpendicular to AH, intersecting
AB and AC at E and F respectively.
(3) Draw the angle bisector EG of AEF, intersecting AH at G.
(4) Draw the angle bisector EH of BEF, intersecting AH at H.
(5) Use G as radius, GP as radius to draw a circle.
(6) Use H as radius, HP as radius to draw another circle.
The two circles in steps (5) and (6) are the required circles satisfying the conditions.
Proof: Q G is the incentre of AEF and H is the excentre of AEF
The two circles in steps (5) and (6) are the incircle and the excircle satisfying the conditions.
Remark: The question Chinese version and English version have different meaning, so I have
changed it. The original question is:
A AB AC
(i)
(ii) AB AC
A suggested solution to the Chinese version is given as follows:
(1) AOB OU
(2) P OP
(3) D D OA OB E G

(4) D DE OP C F OC < OF
V
6
H2
H1 1
S 5
6
4
G Q 5
3
D 5 7
2 P
5 F 7
3 6
C 6
A
O E R T
(5) DF P DF Q
CD P CD U
(6) Q OA OB R S
U OA OB T V
(7) Q QR H1 U UT H2
4 OA OB E G
QOR = QOS ()
OQ = OQ ()
QRO = 90 = QSO ()
QOR QOS (A.A.S.)
QR = QS ()
H1 OA OB R S ()
ODG ~ OQS ODF ~ OQP ()
QS OQ OQ QP
= = ()
DG OD OD DF
QS QP
=
DG DF
Q DG = DF
QS = QP
H1 P
H2 OA OB T V P
Answers: (2013-14 HKMO Final Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 7 January 2016
Individual Events
4
I1 5 I2 I3 11 I4 6
3
55 24 45 5
6 3 45 7.5
33
16 7 81
64
Group Events
1 11
G1 area 48 G2 Product G3 Product G4 PZ 1.6
80 20
minimum 6 S17+S33+S50 1 Sum 1 x3y+2x2y2+xy3 5
remainder 0 Day 5 15 d 2
1
a100 30 5 product 2
10100
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Determine the area of the shaded region, , in the figure.
(Reference: 2011 FI1.1) x
Label the unmarked regions by x and y respectively.
1
3 + + y = area of //-gram = 4 + + x
2
y = x + 1 (1) y
1+x+3+3++y+4 +1 = area of //-gram = 2(4 + + x)
12 + x + y + = 8 + 2 + 2x (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): 12 + x + x + 1 + = 8 + 2 + 2x
=5
I1.2 If the average of 10 distinct positive integers is 2, what is the largest possible value of the
largest integer, , of the ten integers?
Let the 10 distinct positive integers be 0 < x1 < x2 < < x10, in ascending order.
x1 + x 2 + L + x10
= 2 5 = 10
10
x1 + x2 + + x9 + = 100
If is the largest possible, then x1, x2, , x9 must be as small as possible.
The least possible x1, x2, , x9 are 1, 2, 3, , 9.
The largest possible = 100 (1 + 2 + + 9) = 100 45 = 55
I1.3 Given that 1, 3, 5, 7, , and 1, 6, 11, 16, , + 1 are two finite sequences of positive
integers. Determine , the numbers of positive integers common to both sequences.
The two finite sequences are: 1, 3, 5, 7, , 55 and 1, 6, 11, 16, , 56.
The terms common to both sequences are 1, 11, 21, 31, 41, 51.
=6
I1.4 If log2 a + log2 b , determine the smallest positive value for a + b.
log2 a + log2 b 6
ab 26 = 64
( )2
a + b = a b + 2 ab 0 + 2 64 = 16
The smallest positive value of = 16
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Determine the positive real root, , of (x + x ) (x x ) = x.
( ) (x x )
2
x+ x =x

x + x 2 x2 x + x x = x
x = 2 x2 x
x2 = 4(x2 x)
3x2 = 4x
4
x = 0 (rejected) or
3
4
Check: When x = ,
3
4 4 4 4 4+2 3 42 3 3 +1 3 1 4
L.H.S. = + = = = = R.H.S.
3 3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3
4
=
3
I2.2 In the figure, two circles of radii 4 with their centres
4
placed apart by . Determine the area , of the shaded

region.
Let the centres of circles be A and B as shown. AB = 3
Suppose the two circles touches the two given line
segments at E, F, G, H as shown. Then EFGH is a
rectangle with FE = AB = GH = 3, EH = FG = 8 E F
= Area of semi-circle FIG + area of rectangle EFGH
area of semi-circle EDH
= Area of rectangle EFGH
= 38 = 24
C A B D I
H G
I2.3 Determine the smallest positive integer such that the equation x = 4 2 has an
integer solution in x.
x 24 = 4 2
x = 2 6 + 4 2
The smallest positive integer = 3
I2.4 Determine the unit digit, , of (( ) ) .

((3 ) ) = (3 ) = 3
3 3
3
9 3 27
The unit digit of 3, 32, 33, 34 are 3, 9, 7, 1 respectively.

This pattern repeats for every multiples of 4.
27 = 64 + 3
=7
Individual Event 3
1 2 3
I3.1 If the product of numbers in the sequence 1011 , 1011 , 1011 , , 1011 is 1 000 000,
determine the value of the positive integer .
1 2 3
10 10 10 10 = 106
11 11 11 11
1 2 3
+ + +L+ = 6
11 11 11 11
1
(1 + ) = 66
2
2 + 132 = 0
( 11)( + 12) = 0
= 11

I3.2 Determine the value of if + +L+ = .
1 2 3 2 3 4 8 9 10
Reference: 2003 HG1
1

1
=
(r + 2) r = 2 1
r (r + 1) (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 )
1 1 1
Put r = 1, = 2
1 2 2 3 1 2 3
1 1 1
Put r = 2, = 2
2 3 3 4 2 3 4
.........................................................
1 1 1
Put r = 8, = 2
8 9 9 10 8 9 10
Add these equations together and multiply both sides by and divide by 2:
1 1
= + + L + = = 11
2 2 9 10 1 2 3 2 3 4 8 9 10
= 45
I3.3 In the figure, triangle ABC has ABC = 2, AB = AD and

CB = CE. If = DBE, determine the value of .
Let ABE = x
ABC = 90
CBE = 90 x
ADB = x + (base s isos. )
CEB = CBE = 90 x (base s isos. )
In BDE, + x + + 90 x = 180 (s sum of )
= 45
I3.4 For the sequence 1, 2, 1, 2, 2, 1, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, , determine the sum of the first

terms.
= 1 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 ++ 2 + (5 terms) + 1 + 2 +
+ 2 (6 terms) + 1 + 2 ++ 2 (7 terms) + 1 + 2 + + 2 (8 terms) + 1
= 9 + 236 = 81
Individual Event 4
6 3
I4.1 If = 3 6 , determine the value of .
3 2 +2 3
Reference: 1989 FG10.1
6 3 3 2 2 3
=3 6
3 2 +2 3 3 2 2 3
3 2 2 3
6 3 =3 6
18 12
3 6 6 =3 6
=6
n
I4.2 Consider fractions of the form , where n is a positive integer. If 1 is subtracted from
n +1
both the numerator and the denominator, and the resultant fraction remains positive and is

strictly less than , determine, , the number of these fractions.
7
n 1 6
0< <
n 7
7n 7 < 6n and n > 1
1<n<7
Possible n = 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
=5
I4.3 The perimeters of an equilateral triangle and a regular hexagon are equal. If the area of the
triangle is square units, determine the area, , of the hexagon in square units.
Let the length of the equilateral triangle be x, and
that of the regular hexagon be y.
Since they have equal perimeter, 3x = 6y
x = 2y
The hexagon can be divided into 6 identical
equilateral triangles. x y
1 1
Ratio of areas = x 2 sin 60 o : 6 y 2 sin 60 o = 2 : 3
2 2
=5
3
= 5 = 7.5
2
3 5 9 17 33 65
I4.4 Determine the value of = + + + + + .
2 4 8 16 32 64
3 5 9 17 33 65 1
= + + + + + 7
2 4 8 16 32 64 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= + + + + + 1
2 4 8 16 32 64 2
33
=
64
Group Event 1
G1.1 If an isosceles triangle has height 8 from the base, not the legs, and perimeters 32, determine
the area of the triangle.
Let the isosceles triangle be ABC with AB = AC = y A
D is the midpoint of the base BC, AD BC, AD = 8

Let BD = DC = x
y 8 y
Perimeter = 2x + 2y = 32 y = 16 x (1)
x2 + 82 = y2 (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): x2 + 64 = 256 32x + x2 B x D x C
x = 6, y = 10
Area of the triangle = 48
6
1 6 1
x + x + 6 2
G1.2 If f(x) =
x x
3
where x is a positive real number, determine the minimum
1 3 1
x+ +x + 3
x x
value of f (x). Reference: 1979 American High School Mathematics Examination Q29
2
1 3 1
3 2
x + x + 3
x x 3
1 3 1 1
f(x) = 3
= x + x + 3 = 3 x +
1 3 1 x x x
x+ +x + 3
x x
2
1
f(x) = 3 x + 6 6
x
G1.3 Determine the remainder of the 81-digit integer 111L1 divided by 81.
Sum of digits = 1 + 1 + + 1 (81 times) = 81
111L1 is divisible by 81.
The remainder = 0
G1.4 Given a sequence of real numbers a1, a2, a3, that satisfy
1
1) a1 = , and
2
2) a1 + a2 + + ak = k2ak, for k 2.
Determine the value of a100. (Reference: 2013 HG10)
1 1 1
+ a2 = 22 a2 a2 = =
2 23 6
1 1 1 1
+ + a3 = 32 a3 a3 = =
2 6 3 4 12
1
Claim: an = for n 1
n (n + 1)
Pf: By M.I., n = 1, 2, 3, proved already.
1
Suppose ak = for some k 1
k (k + 1)
1 1 1
+ ++ + ak+1 = (k + 1)2ak+1
2 6 k (k + 1)
1 1 1
1 + + L +
1 1
( )
= k + 2k a k +1
2
2 2 3 k k +1
1 1 1
ak+1 = 1 = The statement is true for all n 1
k (k + 2 ) k + 1 (k + 1)(k + 2 )
1 1
a100 = =
100 101 10100
Group Event 2
1 1 1 1 1 1
G2.1 By removing certain terms from the sum, + + + + + , we can get 1. What is the
2 4 6 8 10 12
product of the removed term(s)?
1 1 1 1 3 1
+ + + = + =1
2 4 6 12 4 4
1 1
The removed terms are ; .
8 10
1
Product =
80
G2.2 If Sn = 1 2 + 3 4 + + (1)n1 n, where n is a positive integer,

determine the value of S17 + S33 + S50.
If n = 2m, where m is a positive integer,
S2m = (1 2) + (3 4) + + (2m 1 2m) = m
S2m+1 = m + 2m + 1 = m + 1
S17 + S33 + S50 = 9 + 17 25 = 1
G2.3 Six persons A, B, C, D, E and F are to rotate for night shifts in alphabetical order with A
serving on the first Sunday, B on the first Monday and so on. In the fiftieth week, which day
does A serve on? (Represent Sunday by 0, Monday by 1, , Saturday by 6 in your answer.)
507 = 350 = 658 + 2
B serves on Saturday in the fiftieth week.
A serves on Friday in the fiftieth week.
Answer 5.
G2.4 In the figure, vertices of equilateral triangle ABC are

connected to D in straight line segments with AB = AD.
If BDC = , determine the value of .
Reference: 2003 HG8, 2011 HG9
Use A as centre, AB as radius to draw a circle to pass
through B, C, D.
BAC = 2BDC ( at centre twice at ce)
60 = 2
= 30
Group Event 3
1 1 1
G3.1 Determine the value of the product 1 2 1 2 L1 2 .
2 3 10
Reference: 1986 FG10.4, 1999 FIS.4
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 2 1 2 L1 2 = 1 1 L 1 1 + 1 + L 1 +
2 3 10 2 3 10 2 3 10
1 2 3 9 3 4 11 1 11 11
= L L = =
2 3 4 10 2 3 10 10 2 20
1 1 1 1
G3.2 Determine the value of the sum + + +L+ ,
log 2 100! log 3 100! log 4 100! log100 100!
where 100! = 1009998321.
1 1 1 1
+ + +L+
log 2 100! log 3 100! log 4 100! log100 100!
log 2 log 3 log 4 log 100
= + + +L+
log 100! log 100! log 100! log 100!
log 100!
= =1
log 100!
G3.3 In the figure, ABCD is a square, ADE is an

equilateral triangle and E is a point outside of the
square ABCD. If AEB = , determine the value
of .
180 o 90 o 60 o
= (s sum of isos. )
2
= 15
G3.4 Fill the white squares in the figure with distinct non-zero
digits so that the arithmetical expressions, read both
horizontally and vertically, are correct. What is ?
=5
6 2 = 3
+
1 + 4 = 5
= =
7 8
Group Event 4
G4.1 In the figure below, ABCD is a square of side length 2. A
circular arc with centre at A is drawn from B to D. A
semicircle with centre at M, the midpoint of CD, is drawn
from C to D and sits inside the square. Determine the
shortest distance from P, the intersection of the two arcs, to
side AD, that is, the length of PZ.
Join AP, DP, MP.
Let F be the foot of perpendicular from P to CD.
Let AZ = x. Then DZ = 2 x = PF, DM = MP = 1
In AZP, AZ2 + ZP2 = AP2 (Pythagoras theorem)
ZP2 = 4 x2 (1)
In PMF, MF2 + PF2 = PM2 (Pythagoras theorem) A B
MF2 = 1 (2 x)2 = 4x x2 3 (2)
PZ = DF = 1 + MF 2
x
4 x2 = (1 + 4 x x 2 3 )2
4 x2 = 1 + 2 4 x x 2 3 + 4x x2 3
Z P
3 2x = 4 x x 2 3
9 12x + 4x2 = 4x x2 3 2-x
5x2 16x + 12 = 0 1
(5x 6)(x 2) = 0 D 1 C
M F
5
PZ = 4 x 2 = 4 1.2 2 = 2.56 = 1.6
Method 2 Let D be the origin, DC be the x-axis, DA be the y-axis.
Equation of circle DPC: (x 1)2 + y2 = 1 x2 2x + y2 = 0 (1)
Equation of circle BPD: x2 + (y 2)2 = 22 x2 + y2 4y = 0 (2)
(1) (2) y = x (3)
2
2
Sub. (3) into (1): x 2 2 x + x = 0 x = 0 (rejected) or 1.6 PZ = 1.6
4
5 +1 5 1
G4.2 If x= and y = determine the value of x3y + 2x2y2 + xy3.
2 2
5 1
xy = =1
4
x3y + 2x2y2 + xy3 = xy(x2 + 2xy + y2) = x2 + y2 + 2 =
1
(5 + 1 + 5 + 1) + 2 = 5
4
aabcd
G4.3 If a, b, c and d are distinct digits and d a a b c , determine the value of d.
2 014d
Consider the unit digit subtraction, c = 0 and there is no borrow digit in the tens digit.
Consider the tens digit, 10 + 0 b = 4 b = 6 and there is a borrow digit in the hundreds.
Consider the hundreds digit, 5 a = 1 a = 4 and there is no borrow digit in the thousands.
44602
Consider the ten thousands digit, 4 d = 2 d = 2; Check: 24460
2 0142
G4.4 Determine the product of all real roots of the equation x4 + (x 4)4 = 32.
Let t = x 2, then the equation becomes (t + 2)4 + (t 2)4 = 32
2(t4 + 24t2 + 16) = 32
t4 + 24t2 = 0
t2 = 0 or 24 (rejected)
t=0x=2
Product of all real roots = 2
Answers: (2012-13 HKMO Heat Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 25 February 2016
12-13 1 61 33 2 180 3 30 4 25 5 2012

Individual 6 14 7 1 8 5 9 9 10 2
1 13 2 192 3 6039 4 8028 5 10
12-13
2
Group 6 6 7 6 8 130 9 671 10
2013
Individual Events
I1 Simplify 94 2 2013 .
94 2 2013 = 61 2 61 33 + 33
= ( 61 33 )
2
= 61 33
I2 A parallelogram is cut into 178 pieces of equilateral triangles with sides 1 unit. If the
perimeter of the parallelogram is P units, find the maximum value of P.
2 equilateral triangles joint to form a small parallelogram.
178 = 289
The given parallelogram is cut into 89 small parallelograms, and 89 is a prime number.
The dimension of the given parallelogram is 1 unit 89 units.
P = 2(1 + 89) = 180 units
a
In ABD, AD =
tan
AD 3a
In ACD, AC = =
tan 30 tan
o
3a
= 3a
tan
3
tan =
3
= 30
I4 Given that x2 + 399 = 2y, where x, y are positive integers. Find the value of x.
29 = 512, 512 399 = 113 x2
210 = 1024, 1024 399 = 625 = 252, x = 25
y = (x + 1)(x + 4)(x + 2)(x + 3) + 2013 = (x2 + 5x + 4)(x2 + 5x + 6) + 2013
= (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 24 + 2013 = (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 25 + 2012
= (x2 + 5x + 5)2 + 2012 2012
I6 In a convex polygon with n sides, one interior angle is selected. If the sum of the remaining
n 1 interior angle is 2013, find the value of n.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1990 FG10.3-4, 1992 HG3, 2002 FI3.4
1980 = 180(13 2) < 2013 < 180(14 2) = 2160
n = 14
I7 Figure 2 shows a circle passes through two points

B and C, and a point A is lying outside the circle.
Given that BC is a diameter of the circle, AB and
AC intersect the circle at D and E respectively and
area of ADE
BAC = 45, find .
area of BCED
In ACD, BAC = 45 (given) Figure 2
ADC = 90 (adj. on st. line, in semi-circle)
AD 1
= sin 45 = (1) B
AC 2
D
ADE = ACB (ext. cyclic quad.)
AED = ABC (ext. cyclic quad.)
DAE = CAB (common )
ADE ~ ACB (equiangular)
45
A
AD AE
= (corr. of sides, ~'s) (2) E C
AC AB
area of ADE 12 AD AE sin 45o AD

2
= = by (2)
area of ABC 12 AC AB sin 45o AC
2
1 1
= = by (1)
2 2
area of ADE
=1
area of BCED
I8 Solve 31 31 + x = x.
0 < 31 31 + x < 36 = 6 0 < x < 6
Then 31 31 + x = x 2
(31 x2)2 = 31 + x
x4 62x2 x + 312 31 = 0
(x4 x) 62x2 + 930 = 0
(x2 x)(x2 + x + 1) 62x2 + 930 = 0
We want to factorise the above equation as (x2 x + a)(x2 + x + 1 + b) = 0
a(x2 + x) + b(x2 x) = 62x2 LL (1) and a(1 + b) = 930 LL (2)
From (1), a + b = 62 LL (3), a b = 0 LL (4)
a = b = 31 LL (5), sub. (5) into (2): L.H.S. = 31(30) = 930 = R.H.S.
(x2 x 31)(x2 + x + 1 31) = 0
x2 x 31 = 0 or x2 + x 30 = 0
1 5 5 1+ 5 5
x= , , 5, 6.
2 2
1 5 5 1+ 5 5 1+ 125 1+ 121 1+ 11
< 0 and = > = =6
2 2 2 2 2
Q 0 < x < 6 x = 5 only.
Method 2
Let 31 + 31 y = y
(y2 31)2 = 31 y, then clearly y > x
and y = 31 + 31 y > 30.25 = 5.5
y4 62y2 + y + 930 = 0 (2)

(2) (1): y4 x4 62(y2 x2) + y + x = 0
(y + x)(y x)(y2 + x2) 62(y + x)(y x) + (y + x) = 0
(y + x)[(y x)(y2 + x2) 62(y x) + 1] = 0
Q y + x 0 (y x)(y2 + x2 62) + 1 = 0 (3)
Assume x and y are positive integers. Then (3) becomes
(y x)(y2 + x2 62) = 1 y x = 1 (4) and y2 + x2 62 = 1 (5)
From (4), y = x + 1 (6)
Sub. (6) into (5): (x + 1)2 + x2 62 = 1
x2 + 2x + 1 + x2 61 = 0
2x2 + 2x 60 = 0
x2 + x 30 = 0
I9 Figure 3 shows a pentagon ABCDE. AB = BC = DE = AE + CD = 3

and A = C = 90, find the area of the pentagon.
Draw the altitude BN DE.
Let AE = y, CD = 3 y
Cut ABE out and then stick the triangle to BC as shown in the figure.
ABE CBF (by construction)
CF = AE = y (corr. sides, 's)
DE = DF = 3
BD = BD (common side) A y E
BE = BF (corr. sides, 's) 3
N
BDE BDF (S.S.S.)
3
The area of the pentagon = area of BDE + area of BDF
D
= 2 area of BDF
1
= 2 3 3 B 3 3 -y
2
= 9 sq. units C
y
F
I10 If a and b are real numbers, and a2 + b2 = a + b. Find the maximum value of a + b.
2 2
1 1 1
a + b = a + b a + b =
2 2
(1)
2 2 2
2
1 1
a 2 b 2 0

2 2
1 1 1 1
a + b 2 a b 0
2 2 2 2
1 1 1
By (1), 2 a b 0
2 2 2
1 1 1
2 a b (2)
2 2 2
2
1 1
(a + b 1) = a + b
2
2 2
2 2
1 1 1 1
= a + b + 2 a b
2 2 2 2
1 1
+ = 1 (by (1) and (2))
2 2
(a + b 1)2 1
1 a + b 1 1
0a+b2
The maximum value of a + b = 2.
Group Events
G1 Given that the length of the sides of a right-angled triangle are integers, and two of them are
the roots of the equation x2 (m + 2)x + 4m = 0. Find the maximum length of the third side of
the triangle. Reference: 2000 FI5.2, 2001 FI2.1, 2010 FI2.2, 2011 FI3.1
Let the 3 sides of the right-angled triangle be a, b and c.
If a, b are the roots of the quadratic equation, then a + b = m + 2 and ab = 4m
4a + 4b = 4m + 8 = ab + 8
4a ab + 4b = 8
a(4 b) 16 + 4b = 8
a(4 b) 4(4 b) = 8
(a 4)(4 b) = 8
(a 4)(b 4) = 8
a4 b4 a b c
1 8 5 12 13
2 4 6 8 10
The maximum value of the third side is 13.
G2 Figure 1 shows a trapezium ABCD, where AB = 3, CD = 5 and

the diagonals AC and BD meet at O. If the area of AOB is 27,
find the area of the trapezium ABCD.
Reference 1993 HI2, 1997 HG3, 2000 FI2.2, 2002 FI1.3, 2004 HG7, 2010 HG4
AB // DC
AOB ~ COD (equiangular)
Area of COD 5 Area of COD 25
2
= =
Area of AOB 3 27 9
Area of COD = 75
Area of AOD DO Area of AOD 5
= =
Area of AOB OB 27 3
Area of AOD = 45
Area of BOC CO Area of BOC 5
= =
Area of AOB OA 27 3
Area of BOC = 45
The area of the trapezium ABCD = 27 + 75 + 45 + 45 = 192
G3 Let x and y be real numbers such that x2 + xy + y2 = 2013.
Find the maximum value of x2 xy + y2.
2013 = x2 + xy + y2 = (x + y)2 xy
xy = (x + y)2 2013 0 2013 = 2013 (*)
Let T = x2 xy + y2
2013 = x2 + xy + y2 = (x2 xy + y2) + 2xy = T + 2xy
2xy = 2013 T 20132 by (*)
20133 T
The maximum value of x2 xy + y2 is 6039.
G4 If , are roots of x2 + 2013x + 5 = 0, find the value of (2 + 2011 + 3)(2 + 2015 + 7).
Reference: 1993 HG2, 2010 HI2
2 + 2013 + 5 = 0 2 + 2011 + 3 = 2 2
2 + 2013 + 5 = 0 2 + 2015 + 7 = 2 + 2
(2 + 2011 + 3)(2 + 2015 + 7) = (2 2)(2 + 2)
= 4( + 1)( + 1)
= 4( + + + 1)
= 4(5 2013 + 1) = 8028
G5 As shown in Figure 2, ABCD is a square of side 10 units, E and F

are the mid-points of CD and AD respectively, BE and FC
intersect at G. Find the length of AG.
Join BF and AG.
CE = DE = DF = FA = 5
Clearly BCE CDF BAF (S.A.S.)
Let CBG = x = ABF (corr. s 's)
BCE = 90
BCG = 90 x
BGC = 90 (s sum of ) D E C
Consider ABG and FBC.
AB
G
= cos x F
BF
ABG = x + FBG = FBC x
x
GB
= cos x A B
BC
ABG ~ FBC (ratio of 2 sides, included angle)
AB AG
= (corr. sides, ~s)
FB FC
Q FB = FC (corr. sides, CDF BAF)
AG = AB = 10
Method 2 Define a rectangle coordinate system with A = origin,
AB = positive x-axis, AD = positive y-axis.
B = (10, 0), C = (10, 10), E = (5, 10), D = (0, 10), F = (0, 5)
10 5
Equation of CF: y 5 = (x 0) y = 1 x + 5 LL (1)
10 0 2
10 0
Equation of BE: y 0 = (x 10) y = 2x + 20 LL (2)
5 10
1
(1) = (2): x + 5 = 2x + 20 x = 6
2
Sub. x = 6 into (1): y = 8
AG = 6 2 + 8 2 = 10
G6 Let a and b are positive real numbers, and the equations x2 + ax + 2b = 0 and x2 + 2bx + a = 0
have real roots. Find the minimum value of a + b.
Discriminants of the two equations 0
a2 8b 0 (1)
(2b)2 4a 0 b2 a 0 (2)
a2 8b a4 64b2 64a
a4 64a 0
a(a 4)(a2 + 4a + 16) 0
a(a 4)[(a + 2)2 + 12] 0
a(a 4) 0
a 0 or a 4
Q a > 0 a 4 only
When a = 4, sub. into (2): b2 4 0
(b + 2)(b 2) 0
b 2 or b 2
Q b > 0 b 2 only
The minimum value of a + b = 4 + 2 = 6
G7 Given that the length of the three sides of ABC form an arithmetic sequence, and are the
roots of the equation x3 12x2 + 47x 60 = 0, find the area of ABC.
Let the roots be a d, a and a + d.
a d + a + a + d = 12 a = 4 (1)
(a d)a + a(a + d) + (a d)(a + d) = 47
3a2 d2 = 47 d = 1 (2)
(a d)a(a + d) = 60 a3 ad2 = 60 (3)
Sub. (1) and (2) into (3): L.H.S. = 64 4 = 60 = R.H.S.
The 3 sides of the triangle are 3, 4 and 5.
1
The area of ABC = 3 4 = 6 sq. units.
2
G8 In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle with AB = AC,
BC = 240. The radius of the inscribed circle of ABC is 24.
Find the length of AB.
Let I be the centre. The inscribed circle touches AB and CA
at F and E respectively. Let AB = AC = x.
Let D be the mid-point of BC.
ABD ACD (S.S.S.) F A E
x
ADB = ADC = 90 24 24 x
corr. s, 's, adj. s on st. line 24
I
BC touches the circle at D 120 120
B D C
(converse, tangent radius)
ID = IE = IF = radii = 24
IEAC, IF AB (tangent radius)
AD = x 2 120 2 (Pythagoras' theorem)
SABC = SIBC + SICA + SIAB (where S stands for areas)
1 1 1 1
240 x 2 120 2 = 240 24 + x 24 + x 24
2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
10 x 2 120 2 = 240 + x + x
2 2 2 2
(x 120)(x + 120) = (120 + x )
2
5
5 x 120 = 120 + x
25(x 120) = 120 + x
24x = 25120 + 120 = 26120
AB = x = 265 = 130
G9 At most how many numbers can be taken from the set of integers: 1, 2, 3, , 2012, 2013
such that the sum of any two numbers taken out from the set is not a multiple of the difference
between the two numbers?
In order to understand the problem, let us take out a few numbers and investigate the property.
Take 1, 5, 9.
1 + 5 = 6, 5 1 = 4, 6 4k, for any integer k
Take 3, 6, 8.
3 + 6 = 9, 6 3 = 3, 9 = 33
3 + 8 = 11, 8 3 = 5, 11 5k for any integer k
6 + 8 = 14, 8 6 = 2, 14 = 27
Take 12, 28, 40.
We can take three numbers 1, 5, 9 or 12, 28, 40 (but not 3, 6, 8).
Take the arithmetic sequence 1, 3, 5, , 2013. (1007 numbers)
The general term = T(n) = 2n 1 for 1 n 1007
T(n) + T(m) = 2n + 2m 2 = 2(n + m 1)
T(n) T(m) = 2n 2m = 2(n m)
T(n) + T(m) = [T(n) T(m)]k for some integer k. For example, 3 + 5 = 8 = (5 3)4.
The sequence 1, 3, 5, , 2013 does not satisfy the condition.
T(n) + T(m) = 3n + 3m 4 = 3(n + m 1) 1
T(n) T(m) = 3n 3m = 3(n m) T(n) + T(m) [T(n) T(m)]k for any non-zero integer k
We can take at most 671 numbers to satisfy the condition.
G10 For all positive integers n, define a function f as

(i) f (1) = 2012,
(ii) f (1) + f (2) + + f (n 1) + f (n) = n2 f (n)n > 1.
Find the value of f (2012).
f (1) + f (2 ) + L + f (n 1)
f (1) + f (2) + + f (n 1) = (n2 1)f (n) f (n) =
n2 1
f (1) 2012
f (2) = =
3 3
2012 1
2012 + 1+
f (1) + f (2) 3 = 3 2012 = 1 2012
f (3) = =
8 8 8 6
2012 2012 3
2012 + +
f (1) + f (2 ) + f (3) 3 6 = 2 2012 = 1 2012
f (4) = =
15 15 15 10
It is observed that the answer is 2012 divided by the nth triangle number.
2
Claim: f (n) = 2012 for n 1
n(n + 1)
n = 1, 2, 3, 4, proved above.
2
Suppose f (k) = 2012 for k = 1, 2, , m for some positive integer m.
k (k + 1)
2 2 2 1 1 2
+ + + + +L+
f (1) + f (2 ) + L + f (m ) 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 m(m + 1)
f (m+ 1) = = 2012
(m + 1) 1
2
m(m + 2 )
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 + + + L +
2 2 3 3 4 m m +1
=2 2012
m(m + 2 )
1
1
=2 m + 1 2012 = 2
2012
m(m + 2) (m + 1)(m + 2 )
It is also true for m. By the principle of mathematical induction, the formula is true.
2 2
f (2012) = 2012 =
2012 2013 2013
1. Line segment PQ and an angle of size are given below. Construct the isosceles triangle PQR
with PQ = PR and QPR = .
R
2 F
4
6
E D 1
2
7
3
J
5
H
P 3 Q
Steps. Let the vertex of the given angle be E.
1. Use P as centre, PQ as radius to draw a circular arc QR.
2. Use E as centre, a certain radius to draw an arc, cutting the given angle at D and F
respectively.
3. Use P as centre, the same radius in step 2 to draw an arc, cutting PQ a H.
4. Use D as centre, DF as radius to draw an arc.
5. Use H as centre, DF as radius to draw an arc, cutting the arc in step 3 at J.
6. Join PJ, and extend PJ to cut the arc in step 1 at R.
7. Join QR.
PQR is the required triangle.
2. Construct a rectangle with AB as one of its sides and with area equal to that of ABC below.
Theory
Let the height of the rectangle be h. C
Let the height of the triangle be k.
Q Area of rectangle = area of triangle
1
ABh = AB k
2
1
h= k Q 2 D P
2
The height of rectangle is half of
the height of the triangle. 3 4
A E B
1
Steps.
1. Draw a line segment CE AB. (E lies on AB, CE is the altitude of ABC)

2. Draw the perpendicular bisector PQ of CE, D is the mid-point of CE.
3. Draw a line segment AQ AB, cutting PQ and Q.
4. Draw a line segment BP AB, cutting PQ and P.

ABPQ is the required rectangle.
3. The figure below shows two straight lines AB and AC intersecting at the point A. Construct a
circle with radius equal to the line segment MN so that AB and AC are tangents to the circle.
Lemma:
AB B AB
A B
(1) C (C AB )CB
AB P
(2) PC Q BQ Q
BQ

C

PCQ ()
PBQ = 90 () A P B

Steps.
1. Draw the angle bisector AQ B
2. Use A as centre, MN as P S
radius to draw an arc.
3. Use the lemma to draw
AP AC, AP cuts the arc in 3 4
step 2 at P. 2
4. Draw PQ AP, PQ cuts Q

1
the angle bisector at Q. A
5. Draw QR PQ, QR cuts
AC at R.
6. Use Q as centre, QR as 5
radius to draw a circle. 6
This is the required circle. R

M N C
Proof:
ARQ = 90 (s sum of polygon)
APQR is a rectangle.
AC is a tangent touching the circle at R (converse, tangent radius)
Let S be the foot of perpendicular drawn from Q onto AB, QS AB.
AQR AQS (A.A.S.)
SQ = SR (corr. sides, 's)
S lies on the circle and QS AB
AB is a tangent touching the circle at S (converse, tangent radius)
Individual Events
SI P 30 I1 a 100 I2 a 3 I3 *a 2 I4 a 1
see the remark
*Q 120 b 5 b 600 b 7 b 7
see the remark
R 11 c 0 c 2 c 4 c 61
*S 1
72 d 2 d 36 d 4 d 69
see the remark
3
Group Events
SG q 3 G1 unit digit 5 G2 minimum r 1 G3 m3 n3 1387 G4 no. of digits 34
k 1 Integral part 1 s 24 Maximum 31 2000
1
w 25 24 t 0.5 ab 2519
3
3
p Greatest A 3 u 120 BC 9 A+B+C+D+E 15
2
Errata
FI1.2 "the remainder of ......... divided by" is changed into "the remainder when ......... is divided by"
FI1.4 "Find the maximum possible value of" is changed into "Find the value of"
FI2.2" (2b a) cm2" is changed into " (2b a) cm3"
FI3.1 "integer" is deleted, a a
FI3.3 "The remainder of 392 divided by" is changed into "The remainder when 392 is divided by"
xy 6 xy 6
FI4.4 2 is changed into 2
x y yx x y c 2 x y xy x y c 2
2 2
FG1.2 "integer" is changed into "integral"

FG1.4 "three-digit numbers how many" is changed into "three-digit numbers, how many".
FG2.4 wrong figure 1 on the internet
http://www.edb.gov.hk/attachment/tc/curriculum-development/kla/ma/res/sa/2012d.pdf
Sample Individual Event (2009 Final Individual Event 1)
SI.1 Let a, b, c and d be the roots of the equation x4 15x2 + 56 = 0.
If P = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2, find the value of P.
x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
P = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30
SI.2 In Figure 1, AB = AC and AB // ED.
If ABC = P and ADE = Q, find the value of Q.
ABC = 30 = ACB (base s isos. )
BAC = 120 (s sum of )
ADE = 120 (alt. s, AB // ED)
Q = 120
Remark: Original question AB // DE .
It is better for AB and ED to be oriented in the same direction. Figure 1
log1 F
SI.3 Let F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2Q and R = , find the value of R.
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log1 F log 2121
R= = = 11
log 2 log 2
SI.4 Let f (x) be a function such that f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) and f (1) 0.
f R
If S = , find the value of S.
R 1 f R 3
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f 11 10 9 8 f 8
S= = = 98 = 72
11 f 11 3 10 f 8
Remark: Original question:
f R
Let f (x) be a function such that f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1). If S = , find the value of S.
R 1 f R 3
Note that S is undefined when f (n) = 0 for some integers n.
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Figure 1 has a rectangles, find the value of a.
Reference: 1993HG9
a = C25 C25 = 100
Figure 1
I1.2 Given that 7 divides 111111. If b is the remainder when 111111

111111
is divided by 7,
atimes
find the value of b.
111111
111111
= 111111 110000 + 1111

100 times 96 times
= 111111 1000001
10000 + 7158 +5
1000001
16 '1' s
= 7m + 5, where m is an integer.
b=5
I1.3 If c is the remainder of b 2

4b 2
b 1
2b 2
bb
2
divided by 3, find the value of c.
5 2
4 5 25 = 3100 + 450 + 525
100 50
= 3100 + (3 + 1)50 + (32 1)25

= 3100 + 3m + 1 + 3n 1 (by binomial theorem, n, m are integers)
The remainder c = 0
I1.4 If |x + 1| + |y 1| + |z| = cfind the value of d = x2 + y2 + z2.

|x + 1| + |y 1| + |z| = 0
x = 1, y = 1 and z = 0
d = (1)2 + 12 + 02 = 2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Given that functions f (x) = x2 + rx + s and g(x) = x2 9x + 6 have the properties that the sum
of roots of f (x) is the product of the roots of g(x), and the product of roots of f (x) is the sum
of roots of g(x). If f (x) attains its minimum at x = a, find the value of a.
Let , be the roots of f (x).
+ = r = 6; = s = 9
f (x) = x2 6x + 9 = (x 3)2 + 0
f (x) attains the minimum value at x = a = 3
I2.2 The surface area of a cube is b cm2. If the length of each side is increased by 3 cm, its volume
is increased by (2b a) cm3, find the value of b.
Let the original length of each side be x cm.
Old surface area b cm2 = 6x2 cm2
Original volume = x3 cm3
New length of side = (x + 3) cm.
New volume = (x + 3)3 cm3
Increase in volume = [(x + 3)3 x3] cm3 = (2b a) cm3
9x2 + 27x + 27 = 2(6x2) 3
3x2 27x 30 = 0
x2 9x 10 = 0
(x 10)(x + 1) = 0
x = 10
b = 6x2 = 600
I2.3 Let f (1) = 3, f (2) = 5 and f (n + 2) = f (n + 1) + f (n) for positive integers n.
If c is the remainder of f (b) divided by 3, find the value of c.
f (1) = 3, f (2) = 5, f (3) = 8, f (4) = 13, f (5) = 21, f (6) = 34, f (7) = 55, f (8) = 89,
0, 2, 2, 1, 0, 1, 1, 2 (mod 3)
f (9) 0, f (10) 2, f (11) 2, f (12) 1, f (13) 0, f (14) 1, f (15) 1, f (16) 2 (mod 3)
When f (n) is divided by 3, the pattern of the remainders repeats for every 8 integers.
600 = 875
c=2
I2.4 In Figure 2, the angles of triangle XYZ satisfy
Z Y X and cX = 6Z.
If the maximum possible value of Z is d, find
the value of d.
2X = 6Z X = 3Z
Let Z = z, Y = y, X = 3z
z + y + 3z = 180 (s sum of )
y = 180 4z
Figure 2
Z Y X
z 180 4z 3z
180
z and z 36
7
d = the maximum possible value of z = 36
Individual Event 3
7 4 3 7 4 3
1 1
2 2
I3.1 If a = , find the value of a.
3
7 4 3 =
1
2
2 42 4 33= 4 3 =2 3
7 4 3 = 3
1
2
2 42 4 3 3= 4 =2 3
a=
2 3 2 3 = 2
3
Remark: The original question is: , find the integer value of a. a
As the value of a is exact, there is no need to emphasize the integer value of a.
I3.2 Suppose f (x) = x a and F(x, y) = y2 + x. If b = F(3, f (4)), find the value of b.
f ( x) = x 2
f (4) = 4 2 = 2
b = F(3, f (4))
= F(3, 2)
= 22 + 3 = 7
I3.3 The remainder when 392 is divided by a 2-digit positive integer is b. If c is the number of
such 2-digit positive integers, find the value of c.
392 7 = 385 = 577 = 5711
Possible 2-digit positive integer = 11, 35, 55 or 77
c=4
3x 2 3x c
I3.4 If x is a real number and d is the maximum value of the function y = 2 , find the
x x 1
value of d.
(x2 + x + 1)y = 3x2 + 3x + 4
(3 y)x2 + (3 y) + (4 y) = 0 (*), this is a quadratic equation in x.
3x 2 3x c
For any real value of x, y = 2 is a well-defined function
x x 1
(*) must have real roots in x.
= (3 y)2 4(3 y)(4 y) 0
(3 y)(3 y 16 + 4y) 0
(y 3)(3y 13) 0
13
3y
3
13
d = the maximum value of y =
3
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Let f (x) be a real value function that satisfies f (xy) = f (x) f (y) for all real numbers x and y
and f (0) 0. Find the value of a = f (1).
f (00) = f (0) f (0)
f (0) [f (0)]2 = 0
f (0)[1 f (0)] = 0
f (0) 0
f (0) = 1
f (0) = f (10) = f (1) f (0)
1 = f (1) a = f (1) = 1
F n F n 1 1
I4.2 Let F(n) be a function with F(1) = F(2) = F(3) = a and F(n + 1) = for
F n 2
positive integer n 3, find the value of b = F(6).
F 3 F 3 1 1 F 3 F 2 1 1 1 1
F(4) = F(3 + 1) = = = =2
F 3 2 F 1 1
F 4 F 4 1 1 F 4 F 3 1 2 1 1
F(5) = F(4 + 1) = = = =3
F 4 2 F 2 1
F 5 F 4 1 3 2 1
F(6) = = =7
F 3 1
I4.3 If b 6, b 5, b 4 are three roots of the equation x4 + rx2 + sx + t = 0,
find the value of c = r + t.
The three roots are 1, 2 and 3. Let the fourth root be .
+ 1 + 2 + 3 = 0 = 6
r = 61 62 63 + 12 + 13 + 23 = 25
t = 6123 = 36
c = r + t = 25 36 = 61
xy 6
I4.4 Suppose that (x0, y0) is a solution of the system: 2 .
x y xy x y c 2
2
Find the value of d = x02 y02 .

Reference: 1993 HG8, 2010 FI1.3
From (2): xy(x + y) + x + y 61 = 2
6(x + y) + (x + y) 63 = 0
x+y=9
d = x2 + y2 = (x + y)2 2xy = 92 26 = 69
Sample Group Event (2009 Final Group Event 1)
SG.1 Given some triangles with side lengths a cm, 2 cm and b cm, where a and b are integers and
a 2 b. If there are q non-congruent classes of triangles satisfying the above conditions,
find the value of q.
When a = 1, possible b = 2
When a = 2, possible b = 2 or 3
q=3
4 3x
SG.2 Given that the equation x has k distinct real root(s), find the value of k.
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4

When x < 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x + 4 = 0; D = 9 16 < 0 no real roots.
k = 1 (There is only one real root.)
x y 7
SG.3 Given that x and y are non-zero real numbers satisfying the equations and
y x 12
x y = 7. If w = x + y, find the value of w.
x y 7
The first equation is equivalent to xy 12 xy = 144
xy 12
144 144
Sub. y = into x y = 7: x 7 x2 7x 144 = 0 (x + 9)(x 16) = 0
x x
x = 9 or 16; when x = 9, y = 16 (rejected x is undefined); when x = 16; y = 9
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
Method 2 The first equation is equivalent to xy 12 xy = 144 (1)
xy 12
x y = 7 and x + y = w
w7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w7 w7
Sub. these equations into (1): = 144
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
From the given equation , we know that both x > 0 and y > 0
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
SG.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x y 2 1 0 . Let p = |x| + |y|, find the value
2
of p.
Reference: 2006 FI4.2 y2 + 4y + 4 + x y k = 0. If r = |xy|,
1
Both x and y 2 1 are non-negative numbers.
2
The sum of two non-negative numbers = 0 means each of them is zero
1 1 3
x = , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Find the unit digit of (213 + 1)(214 + 1)(215 + 1)(216 + 1).
210 = 1024, 211 = 2048, 212 = 4096, 213 = 8192, 214 = 16384, 215 = 32768, 216 = 65536
(213 + 1)(214 + 1)(215 + 1)(216 + 1) = 8193163853276965537 3597 5 (mod 10)
Unit digit = 5
G1.2 Find the integral part of 16 (0.40 + 0.41 + 0.42 + + 0.59).
0.40 + 0.41 + 0.42 + + 0.59 = 0.40 0.59 = 9.9
20
2
1 = 9.9 9.9 < 16 9.9 < 18 9 = 2
Integral part = 1
G1.3 Choose three digits from 1, 2, 4, 6, 7 to construct three-digit numbers. Of these three-digit
numbers, how many of them are divisible by 3?
126, 246, 147, 267 are divisible by 3.
The permutations of the digits of 126, 246, 147, 267 are also divisible by 3.
Total number of such integers = 3!4 = 24
G1.4 Using numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to form a six-digit number: ABCDEF such that A is divisible
by 1, AB is divisible by 2, ABC is divisible by 3, ABCD is divisible by 4, ABCDE is divisible
by 5, ABCDEF is divisible by 6. Find the greatest value of A.
Reference: http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Number_Theory/1234567890.pdf
ABCDE is divisible by 5 E = 5
(A, C) = (1, 3) or (3, 1)
AB is divisible by 2, ABCD is divisible by 4, ABCDEF is divisible by 6
B, D, F are even.
ABC is divisible by 3 1 + B + 3 is divisible by 3 B = 2
(D, F) = (4, 6) or (6, 4)
ABCD is divisible by 4 CD is divisible by 4
When C = 1, D = 6 (1)
When C = 3, D = 6 (2)
F=4
ABCDEF = A2C 654
Greatest value of A = 3
Group Event 2
G2.1 If 43 + 4r + 44 is a perfect square and r is a positive integer, find the minimum value of r.
43 + 4r + 44 = 22(42 + 4r1 + 43) = 22(80 + 4r1)
The least perfect square just bigger than 80 is 81 = 92.
4 r1 = 1 r = 1 The minimum value of r is 1.
G2.2 Three boys B1, B2, B3 and three girls G1, G2, G3 are to be seated in a row according to the
following rules:
1) A boy will not sit next to another boy and a girl will not sit next to another girl,
2) Boy B1 must sit next to girl G1
If s is the number of different such seating arrangements, find the value of s.
First, arrange the three boys in a line, there are 3! permutations.
One possible example is shown below:
B2 B1 B3
Label the empty positions (from left to right) as 1, 2, 3 and 4.
1 B2 2 B1 3 B3 4
If G1 is put at the left side of the B1 (as shown below), G2 and G3 can be put into position 1 or
3. There are 2! permutations for putting G2 and G3.
1 B2 G1 B1 3 B3 4
If G1 is put at the right side of the B1 (as shown below), G2 and G3 can be put into position 2
or 4. There are 2! permutations for putting G2 and G3.
1 B2 2 B1 G1 B3 4
Total number of sitting arrangements = s = 3!(2! + 2!) = 24
xa 1
G2.3 Let f (x) = , where x is a real number and the maximum value of f (x) is and the
1 2
x
2
2
minimum value of f (x) is 1. If t = f (0), find the value of t.
x a 2 x 2a
Let y = = 2 2yx2 + y = 2x + 2a (2y)x2 2x + (y 2a) = 0
1 2x 1
x2
2
For real values of x, = (2)2 4(2y)(y 2a) 0
1 (2y2 4ay) 0 2y2 4ay 1 0 (*)
1
Given that 1 y (y + 1)(2y 1) 0 2y2 + y 1 0 (**)
2
1
(*) is equivalent to (**) a =
4
1 1
x
f (x) = 4 ; t = f (0) = 4 = 1
1 1 2
x2
2 2
G2.4 In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle with
ABC = u, AB = BC = a and AC = b. If the
quadratic equation ax 2 2 bx a 0 has two
real roots, whose absolute difference is 2 , find
the value of u.
Let the roots be , . Figure 3
| | = 2 ( )2 = 2
( + )2 4 = 2
2
2b

a 4 2 b = 3a
2 2

a 2 a 2 b 2 2a 2 3a 2 1
cos u = 2
= 2
=
2a 2a 2
u = 120
Group Event 3
G3.1 If m and n are positive integers with m2 n2 = 43, find the value of m3 n3.
(m + n)(m n) = 43, which is a prime number.
m n 43
m n 1 m = 22, n = 21

m3 n3 = (m n)(m2 + mn + n2) = 1[(m + n)2 mn] = 432 2221 = 1849 462 = 1387
G3.2 Let x1, x2, , x10 be non-zero integers satisfying 1 xi 2 for i = 1, 2, , 10.
If x1 + x2 + + x10 = 11, find the maximum possible value for x12 x22 x102 .
In order to maximize x12 x22 x102 , the number of 2 appeared in x1, x2, , x10 must be as
many as possible and the remaining numbers should be 1.
Let the number of 2 be n and the number of 1 be 10 n.
2n 1(10 n) = 11
n=7
Maximum = 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 31
G3.3 If f (n) = an + bn, where n is a positive integer and f (3) = [f (1)]3 + f (1),
find the value of ab.
f (1) = a + b
f (3) = (a + b)3 + a + b = a3 + b3
a2 + 2ab + b2 + 1 = a2 ab + b2
3ab = 1
1
ab =
3
G3.4 In Figure 4, AD, BC and CD are tangents to the circle with centre
at O and diameter AB = 12. If AD = 4, find the value of BC.
Suppose CD touches the circle at E. Let BC = x.
DE = 4 and CE = x (tangent from ext. point)
From D, draw a line segment DF // AB, cutting BC at F.
DAB = ABC = 90 (tangent radius)
DFC = 90 (corr. s AB // DC)
ABFD is a rectangle. Figure 4
DF = 12, BF = 4 (opp. sides of rectangle)
A 4 D
CF = x 4
In CDF, (x 4)2 + 122 = (x + 4)2 (Pythagoras' theorem) 4
x2 8x + 16 + 144 = x2 + 8x + 16 12 12 E
144 = 16x O
BC = x = 9 x
F x-4
B 4 C
x
Group Event 4
G4.1 In P be the product of 3,659,893,456,789,325,678 and 342,973,489,379,256 , find the number
of digits of P.
3,659,893,456,789,325,678 = 3.71018 (correct to 2 sig. fig.)
342,973,489,379,256 = 3.41014 (correct to 2 sig. fig.)
P 3.710183.41014 = 12.581032 = 1.2581033
The number of digits is 34.
1 1 1 7 2013 x
G4.2 If 4 , find the value of 1872 48 .
4 2013 x 4 x 2013
x 2013 3
4
2013x 2
2013 x 8

x 2013 3
2013x 8
1872 48 = 1872 48 = 1872 + 128 = 2000
x 2013 3
G4.3 The remainders of an integer when divided by 10, 9, 8, , 2 are 9, 8, 7, , 1 respectively.
Find the smallest such an integer.
Reference: 1985 FG7.2, 1990 HI13
Let the integer be N.
N + 1 is divisible by 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2.
The L.C.M. of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 is 2520.
N = 2520k 1, where k is an integer.
The least positive integral of N = 2520 1 = 2519
G4.4 In Figure 5, A, B, C, D, E represent different digits.
Find the value of A + B + C + D + E.
9E E (mod 10) E = 0 or 5
Consider the multiplication of ten thousands digit
Figure 5
9A + carry digit = 10 + A A = 1 or 2
Possible products are 122205, 111105, 122200, 111100.
Of these 4 numbers, only 111105 is divisible by 9.
ABCDE = 1111059 = 12345
A + B + C + D + E = 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 = 15
1 9 2 504510 3 8 4 23 5 8
11-12
293 21 2041 16
Individual 6 (= 8 ) 7 6 8 4 9 x = 13, y = 2 10 (= 81 = 81.64)
34 34 25 25
11-12 1 6 2 2037 3 2 + 21006 4 2 503 1 5 2012

Group 6 16 7 10 8 see*124
the remark
9 180 10 5
Individual Events
I1 Find the value of the unit digit of 22 + 32 + 42 + + 201220122. (Reference: 1996 HG10)
12 + 22 + 32 + + 102 1 + 4 + 9 + 6 + 5 + 6 + 9 + 4 + 1 + 0 (mod 10)
5 (mod 10)
2 + 3 + 4 + + 201220122
2 2 2
(12 ++ 102) + + (201220012 ++ 201220102) + 201220112 + 201220122 12 (mod 10)

52012201 + 1 + 4 1 (mod 10)
9 (mod 10)
I2 Given that a, b and c are positive even integers which satisfy the equation a + b + c = 2012.
How many solutions does the equation have?
Reference: 2001 HG2, 2006 HI6, 2010 HI1
Let a = 2p, b = 2q, c = 2r, where p, q, r are positive integers.
a + b + c = 2012 2(p + q + r) = 2012 p + q + r = 1006
The question is equivalent to find the number of ways to put 1006 identical balls into 3
different boxes, and each box must contain at least one ball.
Align the 1006 balls in a row. There are 1005 gaps between these balls. Put 2 sticks into three
of these gaps, so as to divide the balls into 3 groups.
The following diagrams show one possible division.
| LL |
The three boxes contain 2 balls, 1003 balls and 1 ball. p = 2, q = 1003, r = 1.
The number of ways is equivalent to the number of choosing 2 gaps as sticks from 1005 gaps.
1005 1004
The number of ways is C21005 = = 504510.
2
I3 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square. The coordinates of B and
D are (5, 1) and (3, 3) respectively. If A(a, b) lies in the
first quadrant, find the value of a + b.
Mid-point of BD = M(1, 1)
MB2 = MA2 (a 1)2 + (b 1)2 = (5 1)2 + (1+ 1)2 = 20
a2 + b2 2a 2b 18 = 0 (1)
b 1 1 1
MA MB = 1
a 1 5 1
b = 2a 1 (2)
Sub. (2) into (1): a2 + (2a 1)2 2a 2(2a 1) 18 = 0
5a2 10a 15 = 0 a2 2a 3 = 0 (a 3)(a + 1) = 0
a = 3 or 1(rejected)
b = 2(3) 1 = 5
a+b=3+5=8
3 ( 1) 1 b3
Method 2 mBD = = ; mAD =
35 2 a +3
Q BDA = 45 tan 45 = 1
b 3 mBD + tan 45o 12 + 1 1
mAD = = = =
a + 3 1 mBD tan 45 1 ( 2 ) 1 3
o 1
3b 9 = a + 3 3b a = 12 (1)
Mid-point of BD = M(1, 1) b = 2a 1 (2) (similar to method 1)
Solving (1) and (2) gives a = 3, b = 5 a + b = 8
Method 3 by Mr. Jimmy Pang from Lee Shing Pik College y y'
A = A'
Translate the coordinate system by x = x 1, y = y 1
D(-3, 3) = D'
The new coordinate of M is M = (1 1,1 1) = (0, 0)
x'
M(1, 1)=M'(0,0)
The new coordinate of B is B = (5 1, 1 1) = (4, 2) x
O
Rotate B about M in anticlockwise direction through 90 B(5, -1) = B'
The new coordinate of A = (2, 4)

C = C'
Translate the coordinate system by x = x + 1, y = y + 1
The old coordinate of A = (2 + 1, 4 + 1) = (3, 5) = (a, b)
a+b=8
2202512 = 220524 = 102054 = 6251020
1 1 1
I5 Given that log4 N = 1 + + + + L , find the value of N. (Reference: 1994 HI1)
3 9 27
1 1 1 1 3 1
log4 N = 1 + + + + L = 1 = (sum to infinity of a geometric series, a = 1, r = .)
3 9 27 1 3 2 3
3
N =4 2 = 8
a b
the value of + . (Reference: 1996 HG8, 1996FG7.1, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2)
b a
Q a and b are prime number and all prime number except 2, are odd.
a = 2, b = 17 (or a = 17, b = 2)
a b 17 2 293 21
+ = + = (= 8 )
b a 2 17 34 34
I7 Given that a, b and c are positive numbers, and a + b + c = 9. Suppose the maximum value
among a + b, a + c and b + c is P, find the minimum value of P.
WLOG assume that a + b = P, a + c P, c + a P.
18 = 2(a + b + c) = (a + b) + (b + c) + (c + a) 3P
6P
The minimum value of P is 6.
= (14k + 4)2 4(48) (k2 4) = 22[(7k + 2)2 48k2 + 192] = 22(k2 + 28k + 196) = [2(k + 14)]2
14k + 4 + [2(k + 14)] 7 k + 2 + k + 14 8k + 16 6k 12

2
8 6
= ,= 2
(
2 k 4
2
) =
k 4
2
= 2 =
k 4 k 2
=
k 4 k +2
.

k 2 = 1, 2, 4, 8 and k + 2 = 1, 2, 3, 6
k = 3, 4, 6, 10 and k = 1, 0, 1, 4
k = 4 only
8 6
Q k 2 and k 2 x = or
k 2 k +2
I9 Given that x, y are positive integers and x > y, solve x3 = 2189 + y3.
x3 y3 = (x y)(x2 + xy + y2) = 2189 = 11199 and both 11 and 199 are primes.
x2 + xy + y2 = (x y)2 + 3xy
xy (x y)2 + 3xy xy x y
1 2189 = 1 + 3xy 729.33 (rejected)
11 199 = 121 + 3xy 26 13 2
199 11 = 1992 + 3xy (rejected)
2
2189 1 = 2189 + 3xy (rejected)
x = 13, y = 2

Reference: 2005 HI5, 2009 HG8
AB = 14 + 7 = 21, BC = 10 + 10 = 20
AB2 + BC2 = 212 + 202 = 841 = 292 = AC2
1 1 20 7
20 a sin + a 7 cos =
2 2 2
20a sin + 7a cos = 140 (1)
1 1 10 21
21 a cos + a 10 sin =
2 2 2
21a cos + 10a sin = 210 (2)
2(2) (1): 35 a cos = 280
a cos = 8 (3)
3(1) (2): 50 a sin = 210
21
a sin = (4)
5
2
21 2041 16
(3)2 + (4)2: BF2 = a2 = 82 + = (= 81 = 81.64)
5 25 25
Method 2 ABC = 90 (similar to method 1) A
20
Regard B as the origin, BC as the x-axis, BA as the
y-axis, then d = 10i, c = 20i, e = 7j, a = 21j
Suppose F divides AD in the ratio p and 1 p.
15
Also, F divides EC in the ratio t : 1 t.
f = p d + (1 p) a = 10pi + 21(1 p)j (1)
f = t c + (1 t) e = 20ti + 7(1 t)j (2) p 29
10
Compare coefficients:
10p = 20t and 21(1 p) = 7(1 t) E
p = 2t (3) and 3(1 p) = 1 t (4)
2 5 t F
3(3) + (4): 3 = 5t + 1 t =
5
2 2 1-p1-t C
BF2 = | f |2 = |20( )i + 7(1 )j|2
5 5 B D
10 20
2
21 2 21 2041
= |8i + )j| = 82 + =
5 5 25
Method 3 ABC = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem, similar to method 1)

Regard B as the origin, BC as the x-axis, BA as the y-axis, then
x y x y
Equation of AD: + = 1 (1); equation of EC: + = 1 (2)
10 21 20 7
5y 21 x
2(2) (1): = 1 y = ; 3(1) (2): =2x =8
21 5 4
2
2 2 2 21 2041
2 16
BF = x + y = 8 + = (= 81 = 81.64)
5 25 25
Join BF. Let AF = x, FD = y, BF = z, ADB =
x + y = AD = 212 + 102 = 541 (Pythagoras theorem)
Apply Menelaus theorem on ABD with EFC. 14
AE BC DF
= 1 x 29
EB CD FA
14 20 y y 1
= 1 = E
7 10 x x 4
t F
x+ y 541 7
y= = (1) z
5 5 y
C
10 10
Apply cosine formula on BDF B D
z2 = 102 + y2 20y cos
2
541 541 10 541 2041
= 100 + 20
= 100 + 40 =
5 5 541 25 25
Method 5 (Provided by Mr. Lee Chun Yu, James from St. Pauls Co-educational College)
1
Area of ABC = 2120 = 210
2
Area of ABD : area of ADC = 1 : 1 = Area of BDF : area of DCF
Area of ABF : area of ACF = 1 : 1
Area of CEB : area of CEA = 1 : 2 = Area of FEB : area of FEA
Area of CFB : area of CFA = 1 : 2
Area of ABF : area of ACF : area of BCF = 2 : 2 : 1
1
Area of BCF = 210 = 42
2 + 2 +1
42 2
Distance from F to BC = = 4.2
20
2
Area of ABF = 210 = 84
2 + 2 +1
84 2
Distance from F to AB = =8
14 + 7
BF2 = 82 + 4.22 = 81.64 (Pythagoras theorem)
Group Events
y z x z x y
G1 Given that x, y and z are three consecutive positive integers, and + + + + + is an
x x y y z z
integer. Find the value of x + y + z.
x = y 1, z = y + 1
y z x z x y y + y + 1 y 1 + y +1 y 1 + y
+ + + + + = + +
x x y y z z y 1 y y +1
=
(2 y + 1) y( y + 1) + 2 y( y 2 1) + (2 y 1) y( y 1)
( y 1) y( y + 1)
2 y3 + 3 y 2 + y + 2 y3 2 y + 2 y3 3y 2 + y 6 y3 6 y2
= = =
( y 1) y( y + 1) ( y 1) y( y + 1) y 2 1
Clearly y2 1 does not divide y2, so y + 1 and y 1 are factors of 6.
y 1 = 1 y = 2, y + 1 = 3 x + y + z = 6
y 1 = 2 y = 3, but y + 1 = 4 which is not a factor of 6, rejected.
y 1 = 3 or 6 are similarly rejected.
Method 2 x = y 1, z = y + 1
y z x z x y y + y + 1 y 1 + y +1 y 1 + y 3 3
+ + + + + = + + =6+
x x y y z z y 1 y y +1 y 1 y +1
3 3
is an integer y > 1 (1); is an integer y 2 (2)
y 1 y +1
Solving (1) and (2) gives y = 2, x = 1, z = 3 x + y + z = 6
G2 Given that x is a real number and x 2012 + (5 x )2 = x . Find the value of x.
If 5 x, the equation is equivalent to x 2012 + 5 x = x
x 2012 = 2 x 5
x 2012 = 4x2 20x + 25
4x2 21x + 2037 = 0
= 212 4(4)(2037) < 0 no real solution, rejected
If 5 < x, then the equation becomes x 2012 + x 5 = x
x 2012 = 25
x = 2037
G3 Evaluate 2 2 + 21008 + 2 2012 . (Answer can be expressed in index form.)
2 2 + 21008 + 2 2012 = 2 1 + 21006 + 2 2010
(
= 2 1 + 2 21005 + 21005 )
2
= 2 1 + 21005 ( )2
= 2 + 21006.
1 1 1 1
G4 Evaluate + +L+ + .
2012 + 2011 2011 + 2010 3+ 2 2+ 1
(Answer can be expressed in surd form.)
1 1 1 1
+ +L+ +
2012 + 2011 2011 + 2010 3+ 2 2+ 1
2012 2011 2011 2010 3 2 2 1
= + +L+ +
2012 2011 2011 2010 3 2 2 1
= 2012 1
= 2 503 1
G5 Find the minimum value of x2 + y2 10x 6y + 2046.

x2 + y2 10x 6y + 2046
= (x 5)2 + (y 3)2 + 2012 2012
G6 In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle. Suppose AB = AC = 12.
If D is a point on BC produced such that DAB = 90 and CD = 2,
find the length of BC.
Let ABC = = ACB (base , isos. )
ACD = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
BD = 12 sec
BC = 212 cos = BD 2 = 12 sec 2
12 cos2 + cos 6 = 0
(3 cos 2)(4 cos + 3) = 0
2 3
cos = or (rejected)
3 4
BC = 212 cos = 16
Method 2 Draw AE BD. A
ABE ACE (R.H.S.) Let BE = x = EC.
x 12 x 6
cos B = = = 12
12 2 x + 2 12 x + 1 12
2
x + x 72 = 0
B x E x C D
2
(x 8)(x + 9) = 0
x=8
BC = 2x = 16
1 1 1 1
G7 Given that ax = by = cz = 30w and + + = , where a, b, c are positive integers (a b c)
x y z w
and x, y, z, w are real numbers, find the value of a + b + c.
log ax = log by = log cz = log 30w
x log a = y log b = z log c = w log 30
1 1 1 1 log a log b log c log abc
= + + = + + =
w x y z w log 30 w log 30 w log 30 w log 30
abc = 30
Q a 1 and b 1 (otherwise x log a = y log b = z log c = w log 30 0 = w log 30 w = 0)
a = 2, b = 3, c = 5
a + b + c = 10
G8 Given that the roots of the equation x2 + px + q = 0 are integers and q > 0.
If p + q = 60, find the value of q.
Let the roots be and . Remark the original question is: Given that the
roots of the equation x2 + px + q = 0 are integers
+ = p (1)
and p, q > 0. If p + q = 60, find the value of q.
= q > 0 (2)
+ = p < 0 (1), = q > 0 (2)
p + q = 60
< 0 and < 0 and ( 1)( 1) = 61
( + ) + = 60
1 = 1, 1 = 61 = 0, = 60
1 (1 ) = 61
= q = 0 (rejected), no solution
( 1)( 1) = 61, which is a prime
1 = 1, 1 = 61 or 1 = 1, 1 = 61
When 1 = 1, 1 = 61
= 0, = 60
= q = 0 (contradicting to the given condition q > 0, rejected)
1 = 1, 1 = 61
= 2, = 62, q = = 124
G9 Evaluate sin2 1 + sin2 2 + sin2 3 + + sin2 359 + sin2 360.

sin2 1 + sin2 89 = sin2 1 + cos2 1 = 1
sin2 2 + sin2 88 = sin2 2 + cos2 2 = 1
.................................................................
sin2 44 + sin2 46 = sin2 44 + cos2 44 = 1
sin2 1 + sin2 2 + + sin2 89 = (sin2 1 + sin2 89) + + (sin2 44 + sin2 46) + sin2 45
= 44.5
sin2 1 + sin2 2 + sin2 3 + + sin2 359 + sin2 360.
= 44.5 + sin2 90 + 44.5 + 0 + 44.5 + sin2 270+ 44.5 + 0 = 180
G10 In a gathering, originally each guest will shake hands with every other guest, but Steven only
shakes hands with people whom he knows. If the total number of handshakes in the gathering
is 60, how many people in the gathering does Steven know? (Note: when two persons shake
hands with each other, the total number of handshakes will be one (not two).)
Suppose there are n persons and Steven knows m persons (where n > m).
If everyone shakes hands with each other, then the total number of hand-shaking = C2n
In this case, Steven shakes hands with n 1 persons. However, he had made only m
hand-shaking.
C2n (n 1) + m = 60
n(n 1)
n + m = 59
2
n2 n 2n + 2m = 118
n2 3n 118 = n2 3n + 2m < n2 3n + 2n = n2 n
n2 3n 118 0 and n2 n 118 > 0
9.5 n 12.5 and (n < 10.4 or n > 11.4)
11.4 < n 12.5
For integral value, n = 12
12 11
(12 1) + m = 60
2
m=5
1. In the space provided, construct an equilateral triangle ABC with sides equal to the length of
MN below.
C
(1) AB AB = MN
(2) A AB B BA
C
(3) AC BC
A B
ABC
2. As shown in Figure 1, construct a circle inside the triangle ABC, so that AB, BC and CA are
tangents to the circle.
(1) ABC A
(2) ACB P
T
(3) AP 4
3
4 S
(4) P BCAC ABRST 5
P 2
BPR BPT
1
(A.A.S.)
CPR CPS (A.A.S.) B R C
PT = PR = PS ()
(5) P BC R P PR
(inscribed
circle)()
3. Figure 2 shows a triangle PQR. Construct a line MN parallel to QR so that
(i) M and N lie on PQ and PR respectively; and
1
(ii) the area of PMN = the area of PQR.
2
MN QR P
QPR = MPN ()
PQR = PMN (QR // MN, )
PRQ = PNM (QR // MN, )
PQR ~ PMN ()
2
PMN 1 PM N
= = M
PQR 2 PQ
PM 1 PQ
= PM = Q R
PQ 2 2
: 2 P
(1) PQ O
(2) O OP = OQ
F
F 1
3
PFQ = 90 () O
M N
PFQ
QPF = 45
Q R
PQ
PF = PQ sin 45 =
2
PQ
(3) P PF PQ MPM =
2
(4) M QR PR NPMN PQR
Percentage of correct questions

1 34.48% 2 12.58% 3 32.66% 4 35.40% 5 30.73%
6 30.83% 7 42.19% 8 13.08% 9 25.96% 10 4.26%
1 57.49% 2 35.22% 3 38.06% 4 48.99% 5 53.44%
6 18.62% 7 16.60% 8 6.07% 9 30.77% 10 42.51%
Individual Events
SI P 30 I1 A 12 I2 P 5 I3 45 I4 A 22 IS P 95
*Q
see the remark
120 B 108 Q 12 56 B 12 Q 329
R 11 *C
see the remark
280 R 3 23 C 12 *R
see the remark
6
*S
see the remark
72 D 69 S 17 671 D 7 S 198
Group Events
BD *m
SG q 3 G1 tens digit 1 G2 2 G3 z 6 G4 2 GS 4
CE see the remark
k 1 *P 1031 K 2 *r 540 Q 1 v 6
see the remark see the remark
w 25 k 21 l 45 D 998 R 1 3
3 *SBCD 1 *F2012(7) 1
p 32 see the remark x5 5 F 208
2 see the remark
4 see the remark

x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
P = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30

ADE = 120 (alt. s, AB // ED)
Q = 120
log(1 + F )
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log(1 + F ) log 2121
R= = = 11
log 2 log 2

f (R )
(R 1) f (R 3)
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f (11) 10 9 8 f (8)
S= = = 98 = 72
(11) f (11 3) 10 f (8)
f (R )
(R 1) f (R 3)
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If A is the sum of the squares of the roots of x4 + 6x3 + 12x2 + 9x + 2, find the value of A.
Let f (x) = x4 + 6x3 + 12x2 + 9x + 2 By division,
f (1) = 1 6 + 12 9 + 2 = 0 x 2 + 3x + 1
f (2) = 16 48 + 48 18 + 2 = 0
x 2 + 3 x + 2 x 4 + 6 x 3 + 12 x 2 + 9 x + 2
By factor theorem, (x + 3x + 2) is a factor of f (x).
2
x4 3x3 + 2 x 2
x4 + 6x3 + 12x2 + 9x + 2 = (x + 1)(x + 2)(x2 + 3x + 1)
The roots are 1, 2 and , ; where + = 3, = 1 3 x 3 + 10 x 2 + 9 x
A = (1)2 + (2)2 + 2 + 2 = 5 + ( + )2 2 3x3 + 9 x 2 + 6 x
=5+92 x 2 + 3x + 2
A = 12 x 2 + 3x + 2
Method 2 By the change of subject, let y = x2, then the equation becomes
x4 + 12x2 + 2 = x(6x2 + 9) y 2 + 12 y + 2 = m y (6 y + 9 )
(y2 + 12y + 2)2 y(6y + 9)2 = 0
Coefficient of y4 = 1, coefficient of y2 = 24 36 = 12
If , , and are the roots of x, then 2, 2, 2 and 2 are the roots of y
coefficient of y 3
2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = = 12
coefficient of y 4
Method 3
Let , , and are the roots of x, then by the relation between roots and coefficients,
+ + + = 6 LL (1)
+ + + + + = 12 LL (2)
2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = ( + + + )2 2( + + + + + )
= (6)2 2(12) = 12
I1.2 Let x, y, z, w be four consecutive vertices of a regular A-gon. If the length of the line segment
xy is 2 and the area of the quadrilateral xyzw is a + b , find the value of B = 2a3b.
Let O be the centre of the regular dodecagon. x 2
Let Ox = r = Oy = Oz = Ow y
o
360
xOy = yOz = zOw = = 30 (s at a point) z
12
In xOy, r2 + r2 2r2 cos 30 = 22 (cosine rule)
(2 3 )r2 = 4 r2 =
2 3
4
(
=4 2 + 3 ) O
w
Area of xyzw = area of Oxyzw area of Oxw

1 1 3 1
( )
= 3 r 2 sin 30o r 2 sin 90o = 4 2 + 3 = 2 + 3
2 2 4 2
a = 2, b = 3, B =2 3 = 427 = 108
2 3
I1.3 If C is the sum of all positive factors of B, including 1 and B itself, find the value of C.
108 = 2233
C = (1 + 2 + 22)(1 + 3 + 32 + 33) = 740 = 280
Remark: Original version: CB If C is the sum of all factors L
Note that if negative factors are also included, then the answer will be different.
D
I1.4 If C! = 10 k, where D and k are integers such that k is not divisible by 10, find the value of D.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FG1.3
Method 1 Method 2
When each factor of 5 is multiplied by 2, a trailing We can find the total number of factors of 5 by
zero will appear in n!. division as follow:
The number of factors of 2 is clearly more than 5 2 8 0 Total no. of factors of 5 is
the number of factors of 5 in 280! 5 5 6 56 + 11 + 2 = 69
It is sufficient to find the number of factors of 5. 5 1 1 1 D = 69
5, 10, 15, , 280; altogether 56 numbers, each 2 1
have at least one factor of 5.
25, 50, 75, , 275; altogether 11 numbers, each
have at least two factors of 5.
125, 250; altogether 2 numbers, each have at least
three factors of 5.
Total number of factors of 5 is 56 + 11 + 2 = 69
D = 69
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If the product of the real roots of the equation x2 + 9x + 13 = 2 x 2 + 9 x + 21 is P, find the
value of P.
Let y = x2 + 9x, then the equation becomes y + 13 = 2 y + 21
(y + 13)2 = 4y + 84
y2 + 26y + 169 4y 84 = 0
y2 + 22y + 85 = 0
(y + 17)(y + 5) = 0
y = 17 or y = 5
Check put y = 17 into the original equation: 17 + 13 = 2 17 + 21
LHS < 0, RHS > 0, rejected
Put y = 5 into the original equation: LHS = 5 + 13 = 2 5 + 21 = RHS, accepted
x2 + 9x = 5
x 2 + 9x + 5 = 0
Product of real roots = 5
Method 2
Let y = x 2 + 9 x + 21 0
Then the equation becomes y2 8 = 2y y2 2y 8 = 0
(y 4)(y + 2) = 0 y = 4 or 2 (rejected)
x2 + 9x + 21 = 16
x2 + 9x + 5 = 0
= 92 4(5) > 0
25 x 1 2 24
I2.2 If f (x) = x and Q = f + f + L + f , find the value of Q.
25 + P 25 25 25
Reference: 2004 FG4.1, 2011 HG5
25 x 251 x 25 + 5 25 x + 25 + 5 251 x
f ( x ) + f (1 x ) = x + 1 x = =1
25 + 5 25 + 5 25 + 5 251 x + 5 25 x + 25
1 2 24
Q = f + f +L+ f
25 25 25
1 24 2 23 12 13
= f + f + f + f + L + f + f = 12
25 25 25 25 25 25
I2.3 If X = (100)(102)(103)(105) + (Q 3) is an integer and R is the units digit of X, find the value
of R.
Reference: 1993 HG6, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1
Let y = 102.5, then
(100)(102)(103)(105) + (12 3)
= (y 2.5)(y 0.5)(y + 0.5)(y + 2.5) + 9
= (y2 6.25)(y2 0.25) + 9
25 169
= y4 6.5y2 + + 9 = y4 6.5y2 +
16 16
2 2 2
13 13 2052 13
= y 2 = 102.52 =
4 4 4 4
420252 13
X= = 10503
4
R = the units digit of X = 3
Method 2 X = (100 )(102)(103)(105) + 9 = (100)(100 + 5)(100 + 2)(100 + 3) + 9
( )( ) ( )2
( )
= 100 2 + 500 1002 + 500 + 6 + 9 = 100 2 + 500 + 6 100 2 + 500 + 9 = (1002 + 500) + 3
I2.4 If S is the sum of the last 3 digits (hundreds, tens, units) of the product of the positive roots of
2012 x log 2012 x = x R , find the value of S.
( )
log 2012 2012 x log 2012 x = log 2012 x 3
+ (log 2012 x ) = 3 log 2012 x

1 2
2
Let y = log2012 x, then 2y2 6y + 1 = 0
3 7
y = log2012 x =
2
3+ 7 3 7
x = 2012 2
or 2012 2
3+ 7 3 7
Product of positive roots = 2012 2012 2 2
= 20123
123 (mod 1000)
= 1728 (mod 1000)
S = sum of the last 3 digits = 7 + 2 + 8 = 17
Individual Event 3
I3.1 In Figure 1, a rectangle is sub-divided into 3
identical squares of side length 1.
If = ABD + ACD, find the value of .
Method 1 (compound angle)
1 1
tan ABD = , tan ACD =
3 2
0 < ABD, ACD < 45 Figure 1
0 < ABD + ACD < 90
tan ABD + tan ACD 1
+1
tan = = 3 1 21 = 1 > 0
1 tan ABD tan ACD 1 3 2
= 45
Method 2 (congruent triangles) L K J A
Draw 3 more identical squares BCFE, CIGH, IDHG
of length 1 as shown in the figure. ALBD, DBEH are
identical rectangles. Join BG, AG.
BE = GH = AD (sides of a square) B C I D
EG = HA = CD (sides of 2 squares)
BEG = 90 = GHA = ADC (angle of a square)
BEG GHA ADC (SAS) 1 1
Let BGE = = GAH (corr. s 's) H

E
AGH = 90 (s sum of ) F G 1
AGB = 180 AGH BGE (adj. s on st. line)

= 180 (90 ) = 90
BG = AG (corr. sides 's)
ABG = BAG (base s isos. )
180o 90o
= = 45 (s sum of )
2
= ABD + ACD
= ABD + GBI (corr. s, s)
= 45 = 45
Method 3 (similar triangles) L K J A
Join AI.
AI = 2 (Pythagoras theorem)
BI 2 AI 2
= = 2, = = 2
AI 2 CI 1 B C I D
AIB = CIA (common )
AIB ~ CIA (2 sides proportional, included )
ACD = BAI (corr. s, ~s)
= ABD + ACD = ABI + BAI
= AID (ext. of )
= 45 (diagonal of a square) = 45
Method 4 (vector dot product) L K J A
Define a rectangular system with BC = i, BL = j.
j
AB = 3i j, AC = 2i j, AI = i j.
AB AI = | AB || AI | cos BAI
cosBAI =
( 3)( 1) + ( 1)( 1) =
2 B i C I D
( 3)2 + ( 1)2 ( 1)2 + ( 1)2 5

2
cos ACD = BAI = ACD
5
= ABD + ACD = ABI + BAI = AID (ext. of ) = 45
Method 5 (complex number) L K J A
Define the Argand diagram with B as the origin, BD
as the real axis, BL as the imaginary axis. z1
Let the complex numbers represented by AB and AC z2
be z1 and z2 respectively.
z1 = 3 + i, z2 = 2 + i B C I D
z1z2 = (3 + i)(2 + i) = 6 1 + (2 + 3)i = 5 + 5i
Arg(z1z2) = Arg(z1) + Arg(z2)
5
= ABD + ACD = tan1 = 45
5
= 45
36 12
I3.2 Let ABC be a triangle. If sin A = , sin B = and sin C = , find the value of , where
13 y
and y are in the lowest terms.
2
36 4 4 3
sin A = = > 0 0 < A < 90 and cos A = 1 =
45 5 5 5
2
12 12 5
sin B = > 0 0 < B < 90 and cos B = 1 =
13 13 13
sin C = sin(180 (A + B)) = sin (A + B) = sin A cos B + cos A sin B
4 5 3 12 56
= + =
5 13 5 13 65
= 56
I3.3 In Figure 2, a circle at centre O has three points on its
circumference, A, B and C. There are line segments OA, OB, AC
and BC, where OA is parallel to BC. If D is the intersection of C
OB and AC with BDC = (2 1) and ACB = , find the
value of . O
AOB = 2 ( at centre twice at circumference)
OBC = 2 (alt. , OA // CB) D (2 - 1)
+ 2 + (2 1) = 180 (s sum of )
3 + 111 = 180
= 23 A B
Figure 2
2012
I3.4 In the expansion of (ax + b) , where a and b are relatively prime positive integers.
If the coefficients of x and x+1 are equal, find the value of = a + b.
Coefficient of x23 = C232012
a 23 b1989 ; coefficient of x24 = C242012 a 24 b1988
2012
C23 a 23 b1989 = C242012 a 24 b1988
C242012
b= a
C232012
2012 24 + 1
b= a
24
24b = 1989a
8b = 663a
Q a and b are relatively prime integers
a = 8, b = 663
= 8 + 663 = 671
Individual Event 4
1 1 1 12
I4.1 If A is a positive integer such that + +L+ = , find the value of A.
1 3 3 5 ( A + 1)( A + 3) 25
1 1 1 1
= for n 0
(n + 1)(n + 3) 2 n + 1 n + 3
1 1 1 1 1 1 12
1 + + L + =
2 3 3 5 A + 1 A + 3 25
1 24
1 =
A + 3 25
1 1
=
A + 3 25
A = 22
I4.2 If x and y be positive integers such that x > y > 1 and xy = x + y + A.
x
Let B = , find the value of B.
y
xy = x + y + 22
xy x y + 1 = 23
(x 1)(y 1) = 23
Q 23 is a prime number and x > y > 1
x 1 = 23, y 1 = 1
x = 24 and y = 2
24
B = = 12
2
I4.3 Let f be a function satisfying the following conditions:
(i) f (n) is an integer for every positive integer n
(ii) f (2) = 2;
(iii) f (mn) = f (m)f (n) for all positive integers m and n and
(iv) f (m) > f (n) if m > n.
If C = f (B), find the value of C.
Reference: 2003 HI1
2 = f (2) > f (1) > 0 f (1) = 1
f (4) = f (22) = f (2)f (2) = 4
4 = f (4) > f (3) > f (2) = 2
f (3) = 3
C = f (12) = f (43) = f (4)f (3) = 43 = 12
I4.4 Let D be the sum of the last three digits of 24017C (in the denary system).
Find the value of D.
24017C = 74712 = 716 = (72)8 = 498 = (50 1)8
= 508 8507 + 56503 + 28502 850 + 1
282500 400 + 1 (mod 1000)
399 601 (mod 1000)
D=6+0+1=7
Method 2 24017C = 74712 = 716
74 = 2401
78 = (2400 + 1)2 = 5760000 + 4800 + 1 4801 (mod 1000)
716 (4800 + 1)2 48210000 + 9600 + 1 9601 (mod 1000)
D=6+0+1=7
Individual Spare (2011 Final Group Spare Event)
IS.1 Let P be the number of triangles whose side lengths are integers less than or equal to 9. Find
the value of P.
The sides must satisfy triangle inequality. i.e. a + b > c.
Possible order triples are (1, 1, 1), (2, 2, 2), , (9, 9, 9),
(2, 2, 1), (2, 2, 3), (3, 3, 1), (3, 3, 2), (3, 3, 4), (3, 3, 5),
(4, 4, 1), (4, 4, 2), (4, 4, 3), (4, 4, 5), (4, 4, 6), (4, 4, 7),
(5, 5, 1), , (5, 5, 4), (5, 5, 6), (5, 5, 7), (5, 5, 8), (5, 5, 9),
(6, 6, 1), , (6, 6, 9) (except (6, 6, 6))
(7, 7, 1), , (7, 7, 9) (except (7, 7, 7))
(8, 8, 1), , (8, 8, 9) (except (8, 8, 8))
(9, 9, 1), , (9, 9, 8)
(2, 3, 4), (2, 4, 5), (2, 5, 6), (2, 6, 7), (2, 7, 8), (2, 8, 9),
(3, 4, 5), (3, 4, 6), (3, 5, 6), (3, 5, 7), (3, 6, 7), (3, 6, 8), (3, 7, 8), (3, 7, 9), (3, 8, 9),
(4, 5, 6), (4, 5, 7), (4, 5, 8), (4, 6, 7), (4, 6, 8), (4, 6, 9), (4, 7, 8), (4, 7, 9), (4, 8, 9),
(5, 6, 7), (5, 6, 8), (5, 6, 9), (5, 7, 8), (5, 7, 9), (5, 8, 9), (6, 7, 8), (6, 7, 9), (6, 8, 9), (7, 8, 9).
Total number of triangles = 9 + 6 + 6 + 85 + 6 + 9 + 9 + 6 + 4 = 95
Method 2 First we find the number of order triples.
Case 1 All numbers are the same: (1, 1, 1), , (9, 9, 9).
Case 2 Two of them are the same, the third is different: (1, 1, 2), , (9, 9, 1)
There are C19 C18 = 72 possible triples.
Case 3 All numbers are different. There are C39 = 84 possible triples.
Total 9 + 72 + 84 = 165 possible triples.
Next we find the number of triples which cannot form a triangle, i.e. a + b c.
Possible triples are (1, 1, 2), (1, 1, 9) (8 triples)
(1, 2, 3), , (1, 2, 9) (7 triples)
(1, 3, 4), , (1, 3, 9) (6 triples)
(1, 4, 5), , (1, 4, 9) (5 triples)
(1, 5, 6), , (1, 5, 9) (4 triples)
(1, 6, 7), (1, 6, 8), (1, 6, 9), (1, 7, 8), (1, 7, 9), (1, 8, 9),
(2, 2, 4), , (2, 2, 9) (6 triples)
(2, 3, 5), , (2, 3, 9) (5 triples)
(2, 4, 6), , (2, 4, 9) (4 triples)
(2, 5, 7), (2, 5, 8), (2, 5, 9), (2, 6, 8), (2, 6, 9), (2, 7, 9),
(3, 3, 6), , (3, 3, 9) (4 triples)
(3, 4, 7), (3, 4, 8), (3, 4, 9), (3, 5, 8), (3, 5, 9), (3, 6, 9), (4, 4, 8), (4, 4, 9), (4, 5, 9).
Total number of triples which cannot form a triangle
= (8 + 7 + + 1) + (6 + 5 + + 1) + (4 + 3 + 2 + 1) + (2 + 1) = 36 + 21 + 10 + 3 = 70
Number of triangles = 165 70 = 95
IS.2 Let Q = log128 23 + log128 25 + log128 27 + + log128 2P. Find the value of Q.
Q = 3 log128 2 + 5 log128 2 + 7 log128 2 + + 95 log128 2
3 + 95
= (3 + 5 + + 95) log128 2 = 47 log128 2 = log128 22303 = log128 (27)329 = 329
2
IS.3 Consider the line 12x 4y + (Q 305) = 0. If the area of the triangle formed by the x-axis, the
y-axis and this line is R square units, what is the value of R?
1
12x 4y + 24 = 0 Height = 6, base = 2; area R = 62 = 6
2
Remark: the original question is 12x 4y + Q = 0.
The answer is very difficult to carry forward to next question.
1 1
IS.4 If x + = R and x3 + = S, find the value of S.
x x3
2
S = x + x 2 1 + 2 = R x + 3 = R3 3R = 216 3(6) = 198
1 1 1
x x x
q=3
4 3x
SG.2 Given that the equation x = has k distinct real root(s), find the value of k.
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4

x y 7
SG.3 Given that x and y are non-zero real numbers satisfying the equations = and
y x 12
x y 7
The first equation is equivalent to = xy = 12 xy = 144
xy 12
144 144
Sub. y = into x y = 7: x = 7 x2 7x 144 = 0 (x + 9)(x 16) = 0
x x
x = 9 or 16; when x = 9, y = 16 (rejected Q x is undefined); when x = 16; y = 9
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
Method 2 The first equation is equivalent to = xy = 12 xy = 144 (1)
xy 12
Q x y = 7 and x + y = w
w+7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w+7 w7
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
Q From the given equation = , we know that both x > 0 and y > 0
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
SG.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x + y 2 1 = 0 . Let p = |x| + |y|, find the value
2
of p.
Reference: 2006 FI4.2 y2 + 4y + 4 + x + y + k = 0. If r = |xy|,
1
2
1 1 3
x= , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Calculate the tens digit of 20112011.
20112011 (10 + 1)2011 mod 10
102011 + + 201110 + 1 11 mod 10
The tens digit is 1.
G1.2 Let a1, a2, a3, be an arithmetic sequence with common difference 1 and
a1 + a2 + a3 + + a100 = 2012. If P = a2 + a4 + a6 + + a100, find the value of P.
100(2a + 99 )
Let a1 = a then = 2012
2
1006
2a + 99 =
25
1006 99 25 1469
2a = =
25 25
50(a + 1 + a + 99 ) 1469
P = a2 + a4 + a6 + + a100 = = 25(2a + 100) = 25 100
2 25
P = 2500 1469 = 1031
Method 2 P = a2 + a4 + a6 + + a100
Q = a1 + a3 + a3 + + a99
P Q = 1 + 1 + 1 + + 1 (50 terms) = 50
But since P + Q = a1 + a2 + a3 + + a100 = 2012
2012 + 50
P= = 1031
2
Remark: the original question , arithmetic progression
The phrases are changed to and arithmetic sequence according to the
mathematics syllabus since 1999.
G1.3 If 90! is divisible by 10k, where k is a positive integer, find the greatest possible value of k.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4
Method 1 Method 2
When each factor of 5 is multiplied by 2, a trailing zero We can find the total number of factors
will appear in n!. of 5 by division as follow:
The number of factors of 2 is clearly more than the number 5 9 0 No. of factors of 5 is 18+3
of factors of 5 in 280! 518 k = 21
It is sufficient to find the number of factors of 5. 33
5, 10, 15, , 90; altogether 18 numbers, each have at
least one factor of 5.
25, 50, 75, altogether 3 numbers, each have at least two
factors of 5.
Total number of factors of 5 is 18 + 3 = 21
k = 21
G1.4 In Figure 1, ABC is a right-angled triangle with AB BC. A
If AB = BC, D is a point such that AD BD with AD = 5 and
BD = 8, find the value of the area of BCD.
D
AB = BC = 5 2 + 8 2 = 89 (Pythagoras theorem)
8
Let ABD = , then cos =
89
8
CBD = 90 , sinCBD =
89
B C
1 1 8
SBCD = BDBC sinCBD = 8 89 = 32 Figure 1
2 2 89
Remark: the original question right-angle triangle
It should be changed to right-angled triangle. Furthermore, the
condition AD BD is not specified.
Group Event 2
G2.1 Find the value of 2tan 1tan 2 tan 3 tan 87 tan 88 tan 89.
Similar question: 2008 FI1.1
tan tan(90 ) = 1 for = 1, 2, . 44 and tan 45 = 1
2tan 1tan 2 tan 3 tan 87 tan 88 tan 89 = 2
G2.2 If there are K integers that satisfy the equation (x2 3x + 2)2 3(x2 3x) 4 = 0, find the
value of K.
(x2 3x + 2)2 3(x2 3x) 4 = 0
(x2 3x)2 + 4(x2 3x) 3(x2 3x) = 0
(x2 3x)2 + (x2 3x) = 0
(x2 3x)(x2 3x + 1) = 0
3 5
x = 0, 3 or
2
K = number of integral roots = 2
G2.3 If l is the minimum value of |x 2| + |x 47|, find the value of l.
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2011 FGS.1
Using the triangle inequality: |a| + |b| |a + b|
|x 2| + |x 47| = |x 2| + |47 x| |x 2 + 47 x| = 45 l = 45
G2.4 In Figure 1, P, B and C are points on a circle P
with centre O and diameter BC. If A, B, C,

D are collinear such that AB = BC = CD,

= APB and = CPD, find the value of A x B
O
x C x D
(tan )(tan ).
Let AB = x = BC = CD, CBP = .
BPC = 90 ( in semi circle), BCP = 90 (s sum of )
BP = x cos , CP = x sin
BAP = , CDP = 90 (ext. of )
x BP x CP
= (sine rule on ABP); = (sine rule on CDP)
sin sin BAP sin sin CDP
x x cos x x sin
= ; =
sin sin ( ) sin cos( + )
sin cos cos sin = cos sin ; cos cos sin sin = sin sin
sin cos = 2 cos sin ; cos cos = 2 sin sin
tan 1
tan = ; tan =
2 2 tan
tan 1 1
(tan )(tan ) = =
2 2 tan 4
Method 2 BPC = 90 ( in semi circle), P
Produce PB to E so that PB = BE.

Produce PC to F so that PC = CF.

A D
Q AB = BC = CD (given) B O C
APCE, BPDF are //-grams (diagonals
bisect each other)
PEC = (alt. s, AP//EC) E F
PFB = (alt. s, PD//BF)

PC PC
In EPC, tan = =
PE 2 PB
PB PB
In BPF, tan = =
PF 2 PC
PC PB 1
(tan )(tan ) = =
2 PB 2 PC 4
Method 3 Lemma A Given a triangle ABC. D is a point A
on BC such that BD : DC = m : n, AD = t.
ABD = , ADC = < 90, ACD = .
Then n cot m cot = (m + n) cot
Proof: Let H be the projection of A on BC. t
h
AH = h, DH = h cot .

BH = cot , CH = h cot
m BD BH DH h cot h cot B m D H n C
= = =
n DC CH + HD h cot + h cot
m(cot + cot ) = n(cot cot )
n cot m cot = (m + n) cot
Lemma B Given a triangle ABC. D is a point on BC such that A
BD : DC = m : n, AD = t.

BAD = , ADC = < 90, CAD = .
Then m cot n cot = (m + n) cot h
Proof: Draw the circumscribed circle ABC.

Produce AD to cut the circle again at E. B m n C
D
BCE = , CBE = (s in the same seg.)
BDE = < 90 (vert. opp. s)
Apply Lemma A on BEC.
m cot n cot = (m + n) cot E
Now return to our original problem P
BPC = 90 ( in semi circle)

Apply Lemma B to APC:

O
x cot x cot 90 = (x + x) cot A x B x C x D
cot = 2 cot (1)
Apply Lemma B to BPC, BPC = 90
x cot x cot 90 = (x + x) cot(90 )
cot = 2 tan (2)
(1)(2): cot cot = 2 cot 2 tan = 4
1
(tan )(tan ) =
4
Remark: the original question BC OPB C
AB = BC = CD AD AB = BC = CD and AD is a line segment
Both versions are not smooth and clear. The new version is as follow:
BC OPB C ABC D AB =
BC = CD If A, B, C, D are collinear such that AB = BC = CD
Group Event 3
7+ 3 7 3
G3.1 Let x = ,y= and 192z = x4 + y4 + (x + y)4, find the value of z.
7 3 7+ 3
x+y=
( ) (
2
7+ 3 + 7 3
=
)
2
2(7 + 3)
= 5; xy = 1
7 3 4
x2 + y2 = (x + y)2 2xy = 52 2 = 23
x4 + y4 = (x2 + y2)2 2(xy)2 = 232 2 = 527
192z = 527 + 54 = 527 + 625 = 1152
z=6
G3.2 In Figure 1, AD, DG, GB, BC, CE, EF and FA are line segments. A
B
If FAD + GBC + BCE + ADG + CEF + AFE +
P
DGB = r, find the value of r. T
Reference: 1992 HI13, 2000 HI5 G
In the figure, let P, Q, R, S, T be as shown. C
S
ATP + BPQ + DQR + ERS + GST =360 (1)
APT + CQP + DRQ + FSR + GTS =360 (2) Q
(sum of ext. of polygon) R F
D
FAD = 180 (ATP + APT) (s sum of )
GBC + BCE = 360 (BPQ + CQP) (s sum of polygon) E
ADG = 180 (DQR + DRQ) (s sum of )

CEF + AFE = 360 (ERS + FSR) (s sum of polygon)
DGB = 180 (GST + GST) (s sum of )
Add these 5 equations up and make use of equations (1) and (2):
r = 1807 2360 r = 540
Remark: The original question FAD + GBC + BCE + ADG + CEF + DGB = r
AFE is missing, the original question is wrong.
k 1
G3.3 Let k be positive integer and f (k) a function that if = 0.k1k2k3, then f (k) = k1k 2 k 3 ,
k
3 1
for example, f (3) = 666 because = 0.666, find the value of D = f (f (f (f (f (112))))).
3
1 112 1 1
0.99 = 1 < =1 < 1 f (112) = 99k 3
100 112 112
1 99k 3 1 1 1
0.998 = 1 < =1 <1 = 0.999 f (f (112)) = 998
500 99k 3 99k 3 1000
f (f (f (112))) = 998 D = f (f (f (f (f (112))))) = 998
G3.4 If Fn is an integral valued function defined recursively by Fn(k) = F1(Fn1(k)) for n 2 where
F1(k) is the sum of squares of the digits of k, find the value of F2012(7).
F1(7) = 72 = 49
F2(7) = F1(F1(7)) = F1(49) = 42 + 92 = 97
F3(7) = 92 + 72 = 130
F4(7) = 12 + 32 + 02 = 10
F5(7) = 1
F2012(7) = 1
Remark: the original question If f is an integer valued function
The recursive function is defined for Fn, not f.
Group Event 4
G4.1 In figure 1, ABC and EBC are two right-angled triangles,
BAC = BEC = 90AB = AC and EDB is the angle bisector
BD
of ABC. Find the value of .
CE
ABC is a right-angled isosceles triangle.
ABC = ACB = 45 (s sum of isos. )
ABD = CBD = 22.5 ( bisector)
Let BC = x
2x
AB = x cos 45 = ; CE = x sin 22.5
2
2x
BD = AB cos 22.5 =
2 cos 22.5o
BD 2x 2
= = =2
CE 2 cos 22.5 x sin 22.5 cos 45o
o o
Method 2 Produce CE and BA to meet at F.

F
AB = AC ABC = ACB = 45
BAC = BEC = 90 (given) A
ABCE is a cyclic quad. (converse, s in the same seg.)
ABD = CBD = 22.5 ( bisector) E
ACF = 22.5 (s in the same seg.) D
CAE = CBE = 22.5 (s in the same seg.)
CE = AE (1) (sides, opp. eq. s)
EAF = 180 90 22.5 = 67.5 (adj. s on st. line) B C
AFE = 180 90 22.5 = 67.5 (s of ACF)
AE = EF (2) (sides, opp. eq. s)
By (1) and (2), CF = 2CE (3)
ACF ABD (A.S.A.)
BD = CF (corr. sides, s)
BD CF 2CE
= = = 2 by (3)
CE CE CE
G4.2 If Q > 0 and satisfies 3Q 1 2Q = 2 , find the value of Q.
Reference: 2002 FG4.3, 2005 FG4.2, 2009 HG9
3Q 1 2Q = 2
3Q |1 2Q| = 2 or 3Q |1 2Q| = 2
3Q 2 = |1 2Q| or 3Q + 2 = |1 2Q|
3Q 2 = 1 2Q or 3Q 2 = 2Q 1 or 3Q + 2 = 1 2Q or 3Q + 2 = 2Q 1
3 1
Q = or 1 or (rejected) or 3 (rejected)
5 5
3 9 6 8
Check: when Q = , LHS = 1 = 2, rejected
5 5 5 5
When Q = 1, LHS = |3 |1 2|| = 2 = RHS accepted
Q=1
1 1 1 1
G4.3 Let xyzt = 1. If R = + + + ,
1 + x + xy + xyz 1 + y + yz + yzt 1 + z + zt + ztx 1 + t + tx + txy
find the value of R.
1 1 t
= =
1 + x + xy + xyz 1 + x + xy + t 1 + t + tx + txy
1
1 1 tx
= =
1 + y + yz + yzt 1 + y + tx + tx 1 + t + tx + txy
1 t
1 1 txy
= =
1 + z + zt + ztx 1 + txy + txy + txy 1 + t + tx + txy
1 t tx
t tx txy 1
R= + + + =1
1 + t + tx + txy 1 + t + tx + txy 1 + t + tx + txy 1 + t + tx + txy
G4.4 If x1, x2, x3, x4 and x5 are positive integers that satisfy x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 + x5 = x1x2x3x4x5, that is
the sum is the product, find the maximum value of x5.
The expression is symmetric. We may assume that 1 x1 x2 x3 x4 x5.
If x1 = x2 = x3 = x4 = 1, then 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + x5 = 1111x5 no solution
x1x2x3x4 1 0
x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 = (x1x2x3x4 1)x5
x + x + x3 + x 4
x5 = 1 2
x1 x2 x3 x4 1
When x5 attains the maximum value, the denominator must be 1, i.e. x1x2x3x4 = 2
1+1+1+ 2
Q 1 x1 x2 x3 x4 x1 = 1, x2 = 1, x3 = 1, x4 = 2, max. x5 = =5
2 1
Method 2 We begin from the lowest integer.
Case 1 Let x1 = x2 = x3 = x4 = 1, then 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + x5 = 1111x5 no solution
x +3
Case 2 Let x1 = x2 = x3 = 1 and x4 > 1, then 3 + x4 + x5 = x4x5 x5 = 4
x4 1
When x4 = 2, x5 = 5; when x4 = 3, x5 = 3
When x4 = 4, no integral solution for x5
When x4 = 5, x5 = 2, contradicting that 1 x1 x2 x3 x4 x5.
When x4 > 5, then x5 < x4, which is a contradiction
Case 3 Let x1 = x2 = 1 and x3 > 1, then 2 + x3 + x4 + x5 = x3x4x5
x +4
When x3 = 2, 4 + x4 + x5 = 2x4x5 x5 = 4 > 1 x4 + 4 > 2x4 1 x4 < 5
2 x4 1
When x4 = 2, x5 = 2
When x4 = 3, 4, no integral solution for x5
1 + x 2 + x3 + x 4 1 + 3 x 4
Case 4 1 = x1 < x2 x3 x4 x5, then x5 = <
x 2 x3 x 4 1 4 x4 1
When x2 = x3 = x4 = 2, x5 = 1 < x4, contradiction
When 2 x2 = x3 < x4
1 + 3x4 < 4x4 1
1 + 3 x4
< 1 x5 < 1, contradiction There is no integral solution for x5.
4 x4 1
x + x + x3 + x 4 4 x4
Case 5 2 x1 x2 x3 x4 x5, then x5 = 1 2 <
x1 x2 x3 x4 1 8 x4 1
1 < 4x4
4x4 < 8x4 1
4 x4
8 x4 1
Conclusion: The solution set for (x1, x2, x3, x4, x5) is {(1, 1, 1, 2, 5), (1, 1, 1, 3, 3), (1,1,2,2,2)}.
Maximum for x5 = 5
Group Spare (2011 Final Group Spare Event)
GS.1 Let and be the real roots of y2 6y + 5 = 0. Let m be the minimum value of
|x | + |x | over all real values of x. Find the value of m.
Remark: there is a typing mistake in the English version. minimum value a of
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2012 FG2.3
= 1, = 5
If x < 1, |x | + |x | = 1 x + 5 x = 6 2x > 4
If 1 x 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + 5 x = 4
If x > 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + x 5 = 2x 6 > 4
m = min. of |x | + |x | = 4
Method 2 Using the triangle inequality: |a| + |b| |a + b|
|x | + |x | |x 1 + 5 x| = 4 m = 4
GS.2 Let , , be real numbers satisfying + + = 2 and = 4. Let v be the minimum value
of || + || + ||. Find the value of v.
If at least one of , , = 0, then 4 , , 0
If , , > 0, then
++ 3
(A.M. G.M.)
3
2 3
4
3
23 274 = 108, which is a contradiction
If < 0, in order that = 4 > 0, WLOG let < 0, > 0
=2>2
|| + || + || = ( + ) = 2 + 2( ) 2 + 4 ( )( ) , equality holds when =
4 = (2 2)2
3 2 + 2 = 0
( + 1)(2 2 + 2) = 0
= 1 (For the 2nd equation, = 4 < 0, no real solution)
= 1, = 4
|| + || + || = 1 + 1 + 4 = 6
v = min. of || + || + || = 6
GS.3 Let y = |x + 1| 2|x| + |x 2| and 1 x 2. Let be the maximum value of y. Find the value
of .
y = x + 1 2|x| + 2 x = 3 2|x|
0 |x| 2 3 3 2|x| 1
=3
2 2 2 2
GS.4 Let F be the number of integral solutions of x + y + z + w = 3(x + y + z + w).
Find the value of F.
(x, y, z, w) = (0, 0, 0, 0) is a trivial solution.
x2 + y2 + z2 + w2 3(x + y + z + w) = 0
2 9 2 9 2 9 2 9
x 3 x + + y 3 y + + z 3 z + + w 3w + = 9
4 4 4 4
2 2 2 2
3 3 3 3
x + y +z +w = 9
2 2 2 2
(2x 3) + (2y 3) + (2z 3) + (2w 3)2 = 36
2 2 2
Let a = 2x 3, b = 2y 3, c = 2z 3, d = 2w 3, the equation becomes a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 36

For integral solutions of (x, y, z, w), (a, d, c, d) must be odd integers.
In addition, the permutation of (a, b, c, d) is also a solution. (e.g. (b, d, c, a) is a solution)
Q a, b, c, d are odd integers and a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 0
If one of the four unknowns, say, a > 6, then L.H.S. > 36, so L.H.S. R.H.S.
a , b, c, d = 1, 3, 5
When a = 5, then 25 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 36 b2 + c2 + d2 = 11
The only integral solution to this equation is b = 3, c = 1 = d or its permutations.
When the largest (in magnitude) of the 4 unknowns, say, a is 3, then 9 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 36
b2 + c2 + d2 = 27, the only solution is b = 3, c = 3, d = 3 or its permutations.
The integral solutions are (a, b, c, d) = (5, 3, 1, 1) and its permutations (1) P24 = 12
(3, 3, 3, 3) (2) 1
If (a, b, c, d) is a solution, then (a, b, c, d) are also solutions.
There are 16 solutions with different signs for (a, b, c, d).
F = (12 + 1)16
= 208
26 1
10-11 1 11 2 (= 5.2) 3 2010 4 20 5 237
5 2
Individual
6 10 7 6 2 8 7 9 36 10 24 3
a = 1006, b = 1002,
10-11 1 2 15 3 5026 4 4 5 1005
c = 998, d = 996, e = 994
Group
6 6 2 7 125751 8 2012 9 99 10 2 3
Individual Events
Reference: 1972 American High School Mathematics Examination Q31, 2015 FI4.1
26 = 64 = 135 1 1 mod 13; 212 1 mod 13
2011 = 12167 + 7
22011 = 212167 + 7 = (212)16727 27 262 12 2 11 mod 13
I2 Given that x2 + y2 = 1, find the maximum value of 2x + 5y2.
2x + 5y2 = 2x + 5(1 x2) = 5x2 + 2x + 5
4ac b 2 4 5 5 2 2 26
The maximum value = = = (= 5.2)
4a 4 5 5
I3 Given that a + b = 2011 2010 and a b = 2011 2010 , find the value of ab.
(Give your answer in surd form)
(a + b)2 (a b)2 = 2011 2010 2011 2010
4ab = 2 2010
1
ab = 2010
2
I4 In ABC, the ratio of the altitudes perpendicular to the three sides AB, BC and CA is 3 : 4 : 5.
If the lengths of the three sides are integers, find the minimum value of AB.
Let AB = c, BC = a, CA = b. By calculating the areas in 3 different ways:
3a = 4b = 5c
a : b : c = 20 : 15 : 12
The minimum value of AB = 20
(2) (1): (m + n)(m n) = 31
m + n = 31 and m n = 1
m = 16, n = 15
x = 152 + 12 = 237
A 0 1+1=2 1+1=2 3+3=6 5+5=10
B 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
C 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
I7 Find the value of 7 12 13 2 12 .

Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
13 2 12 = 12 2 1 12 1 = 12 1 =
2
12 1
7 12 13 2 12 = 7 12 12 1 = 8 2 12
= 6 2 26 2 = 6 2
2
= 6 2
10(10) + 15(5) + 25(5) + 40(10) = 700
Class A uses 7 $100 notes.
I9 The length and the width of a rectangle are integers. If its area is larger than its perimeter by 9,
find the perimeter.
Let the width be x and the length be y.
xy 2(x + y) = 9
x(y 2) 2y + 4 = 13
(x 2)(y 2) = 13
x 2 = 1, y 2 = 13
x = 3, y = 15
The perimeter = 2(3 + 15) = 36
I10 In the figure, ABCD is a trapezium with C = 90. If the area of
the equilateral triangle ABD is 16 3 , find the area of trapezium
ABCD.
1
Area of BCD = area of ABD
2
Area of trapezium = 16 3 + 8 3 = 24 3
Group Events
G1 If (1000 a)(1000 b)(1000 c)(1000 d)(1000 e) = 242, where a, b, c, d and e are even
numbers and a > b > c > d > e, find the values of a, b, c, d and e.
242 = 2632 = 6(2)246
= (1000 1006)(1000 1002)(1000 998)(1000 996)(1000 994)
a = 1006, b = 1002, c = 998, d = 996, e = 994
G2 ab denotes a two digit number with a as tens digit and b as the unit digit. Rab is the
remainder when ab is divided by a + b. Find the maximum value of Rab .
ab = 10a + b = 9a + (a + b)
9a = (a + b)m + Rab , where 0 Rab < a + b
a = 1, ab = 19, maximum possible Rab = 9
a = 2, ab = 28, maximum possible Rab = 28 20 = 8
The maximum value of Rab is 15.
G3 Given that a, b and c are integers, and a + b = 2011, c a = 2010, a < b. Find the greatest
possible value of a + b + c.
a + b + c = 2011 + c
c = a + 2010
Maximum a = 1005, b = 1006, c = 1005 + 2010 = 3015
Maximum a + b + c = 2011 + 3015 = 5026
G4 Given that n is a positive integer and n4 18n2 + 49 is a prime number, find the value of n.
n4 18n2 + 49 = (n2 7)2 4n2 = (n2 + 2n 7)(n2 2n 7)
n2 + 2n 7 > n2 2n 7
n2 2n 7 = 1 and n2 + 2n 7 is a prime
n2 2n 8 = 0
(n 4)(n + 2) = 0
n = 4 only (verification: n2 + 2n 7 = 17 which is a prime)
4x
G5 Given that f x x , where x is a real number, find the value of
4 2
1 2 3 2009 2010
f f f f f .
2011 2011 2011 2011 2011
Reference: 2004 FG4.1, 2012 FI2.2
4x 41 x 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
f x f 1 x 1
4 x 2 41 x 2 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
1 2 3 2009 2010
f f f f f
2011 2011 2011 2011 2011
1 2010 2 2009 1005 1006
= f f f f f f = 1005
2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011
G6 In the figure below, M is a point on AC, AM = MC = BM = 3. Find the

maximum value of AB + BC. Reference: 2007 HG8
M is the centre of the circle ABC with AC as diameter.
ABC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
Let ACB = x, AB = 6 sin , BC = 6 cos
AB + BC = 6 sin + 6 cos
= 6 2 sin( 45 ) 6 2
The maximum value is 6 2 .
2011!
G7 Given that n! = n(n 1)(n 2) 321 and is an integer, where k is a positive
10k
integer. If S is the sum of all possible values of k, find the value of S.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
When each factor of 5 is multiplied by 2, a trailing zero will appear in n!.
The number of factors of 2 is clearly more than the number of factors of 5 in 2011!
It is sufficient to find the number of factors of 5.
5, 10, 15, , 2010; altogether 402 numbers, each have at least one factor of 5.
25, 50, 75, , 2000; altogether 80 numbers, each have at least two factors of 5.
125, 250, 375, , 2000; altogether 16 numbers, each have at least three factors of 5.
625, 1250, 1875; altogether 3 numbers, each have at least four factors of 5.
Total number of factors of 5 is 402 + 80 + 16 + 3 = 501
2011!
There are 501 trailing zeros of 2011! If is an integer, then k = 1, 2, , 501.
10k
1 501
S = 1 + 2 + + 501 = 501 = 125751
2
G8 Given that a, b, c and d are non-negative integers and
ac + bd + ad + bc = 2011. Find the value of a + b + c + d.
(a + b)(c + d) = 2011, which is a prime number
a + b = 2011 and c + d = 1 or vice versa.
a + b + c + d = 2012
G9 As shown in the figure, ABCD is a convex quadrilateral,
BAC = 27, BCA = 18, BDC = 54, BDA = 36.
The diagonals AC and BD intersect at P. Find CPB.
Reference: 2003 HG8, 2014 FG2.4
Draw a circumscribed circle ABC. B
Produce BD to cut the circle at E. 27 18
A C
BEA = 18 = BCA (s in the same segment) P
BEC = 27 = BAC (s in the same segment)
DAE = 36 18 = 18 (ext. of ADE) 36 54
DCE = 54 27 = 27 (ext. of ADE) D

DA = DE and DC = DE (sides opp. eq. s)
D is the centre of the circle
DA = DB = DC (radii)
DCB = DBC = (180 54) 2 = 63
(s sum of isos. BCD) E
DCP = 63 18 = 45
CPB = 45 + 54 = 99 (ext. of CDP)
G10 As shown in the figure, AC = 3, BC = 4 and

A
C = 90. M is a point on BC such that the
incircles in ABM and ACM are equal. Find the
length of AM.
Let D, F be the centres of the circles, with radii
r, the points of contact be E, G, H, I, J, K as 3-r 3-r
shown. Let AM = x, AB = 5, CH = CE = r.
K
AE = 3 r = AG (tangent from ext. point) G
SABF+SAMF+SBMF+SAMD+SACD+SCMD=SABC F
3 45 2x r 3 4 D E
r J r
2 2 2
r
r(6 + x) = 6 B I
M H
C
6
r= (1)
6 x
In ACM, MG = x + r 3 = MH (tangent from ext. point)
6
MC = x + 2r 3 = x 2 3 by (1)
6 x
=
x 36 x 12 = x 2 3x 6
6 x 6 x
2 2 2
AM AC = MC (Pythagoras Theorem)
2
x 2 3x 6
x 9
2

6 x
(x2 9)(x + 6)2 = (x2 + 3x 6)2
(x2 9)(x2 + 12x +36) = x4 + 6x3 3x2 36x + 36
6x3 + 30x2 72x 360 = 0
x3 + 5x2 12x 60 = 0
x(x2 12) + 5(x2 12) = 0
(x + 5)(x2 12) = 0
AM = x = 2 3
Method 2 Lemma In the figure, given a triangle ABC. A
ADBC, AD = h, O is the centre of the inscribed circle with
1
radius r. s = (a + b + c)
2 R
Area of ABC ah c r h
b
Then r = = Q
s abc O
r
Proof: Area OBC + area OCA + area OAB = Area of ABC
1 1 1 1 r
ar br cr ah
2 2 2 2 B a P D C
Area of ABC ah
r= =
s abc
Let CM = t, then BM = 4 t. Now apply the above lemma to ACM and ABM respectively.
3t
r= (1)
t 3 9t2
34 t
r= (2)
4 t 5 9 t2
3t 34 t
(1) = (2) =
t 3 9t2 9t 9t2
t t 3 9t2

4t 9 t 9t2
2t 4 2t 6 A C A B C D
( )
4 12 2 9 t 2 B D A B C D
t 2 t 3

2 6 9t2
t 26 9 t 2 2t 6
6t 12 t 2 9 t 2 2t 6
t 2 9 t 2 6 4t
(t2 4t + 4)(9 + t2) = 36 48t + 16t2
t4 4t3 + 4t2 + 9t2 36t + 36 = 36 48t + 16t2
t4 4t3 3t2 + 12t = 0
t[t2(t 4) 3(t 4)] = 0
t(t 4)(t2 3) = 0
t = 0 (rejected), 4 (rejected because CM < BC = 4) or 3.
2
AM = AC 2 CM 2 = 32 3 = 2 3
1. Given a straight line L, and two points P and Q lying on the same side of L. Mark a point T on
L so that the sum of the lengths of PT and QT is minimal. (Hint: Consider the reflection image
of P about the line L.)
Reference: 2008 Heat Sample construction Q2
P
Q
P
Q 1 3 1
L
A S B T
4
L 2
2 P1
Figure 1
Figure 2
Let A be one of the end point of L nearer to P.
(1) Use P as centre, PA as radius to draw an arc, which intersects L at A and B.
(2) Use A as centre, AP as radius to draw an arc. Use B as centre, BP as radius to draw an
arc. The two arcs intersect at P1.
(3) Join PP1 which intersects L at S.
(4) Join P1Q which intersects L at T
AP = AP1 (same radii)
AB = AB (common side)
BP = BP1 (same radii)
APB AP1B (S.S.S.)
PBA = P1BA (corr. sides s)
BS = BS (common side)
PBS P1BS (S.A.S.)
BSP = BSP1 (corr. sides s)
= 90 (adj. s on st. line)
SP = SP1 (corr. sides s)
ST = ST (common side)
PST P1ST (S.A.S.)
PT = P1T (corr. sides 's)
PT + QT = P1T + QT
It is known that P1T + QT is a minimum when P1, T, Q are collinear.
T is the required point.
2. The figure shows a line segment AB. D is a fixed point such that A, B, D are not collinear.
Construct a triangle ABC so that C, B and D are collinear and AC BC = BD.
ABD ABD
ABC CB D
AC BC = BD
Remark: The wording in both versions are ambiguous,
so I have changed it.
The original question is:
Figure 2 shows a line segment AB which is a ABC and D is any point not lying on AB. If the
difference between the other two sides of ABC (i.e. AC BC) is equal to BD and C, B and D
are collinear, construct ABC.
2 ABC AB D AB ABC
( AC BC) BD CB D ABC
(1) Join DB and produce it further. C
(2) Join AD. 4
(3) Construct the perpendicular bisector of AD, cutting DB 4
produced at C. Let M be the mid-point of AD.

(4) Join AC, BC.
ABC is the required triangle. B
A
Proof: ACM DCM (S.A.S.) 2
AC = DC (corr. sides, ) M 1
BC = DC BD = AC BD 3
BD = AC BC. D
Discussion: There are some positions on the plane for which ABC is not constructible.
Use B as centre BA as radius to draw a circle.

Let AE be the diameter of this circle. AB = BE.
Draw 2 circles with AB, BE as diameters.
Let the region (including the boundary) bounded
by the circles with AB, BE as diameters be and
respectively.
Let the region inside the great circle with AE as
B
diameter but not in and be . A E
Let the region on or outside the great circle be .
When D lies on , then BD AB
So AC BC AB
AC AB + BC
This inequality violates the triangle law:
The sum of 2 sides of a triangle is larger than the
third side.
i.e. AC AB + BC > AC, which is false.
When D lies on or outside the circle, ABC is not constructible.
When D lies on ,

AC1M DC1M (S.A.S.) C1
C1AM = C1DM (corr. s, )
ADC1 = BAD + ABD (ext. of ABD)
> ABD
D
C1AM = ADC1 > ABD
C1AB > ABD M B
AC1 < BC1 (greater sides opp. greater s) A E
The contradicts to the fact that BD = AC1 BC1
because AC1 = BD + BC1 > BC1
In this case the steps are as follows:
(1) Join DB and produce it further.
(2) Use B as centre, BD as radius to draw a
circle, cutting DB produced at F.
(3) Join AF.
(4) Construct the perpendicular bisector of
AF, cutting DB at C2. Let M2 be the
mid-point of AF.
(5) Join AC2, BC2.
2
ABC2 is the required triangle.
ABC2 = BAF + AFB (ext. of ABF) D
C2
> AFB 5 5
B
= FAC2 (corr. s, ) A 4 E
1
> BAC2 3
M2
AC2 > BC2 (greater sides opp. greater s) F
The triangle ABC is constructible.
When D lies on , relabel D as F and F as D,
the construction steps are shown above.
There is only one possible triangle.
When D lies on the boundary of ,
ADB = 90 ( in semi-circle)
The perpendicular bisector of AD is parallel to
DB. It will not intersect DB produced. D
Suppose DB produced intersects the boundary 4 C3
of at F3. Then the perpendicular bisector of M3 3
AF3 intersects DB at C3. B
ABC3 is the required triangle. A E
Proof: omitted. 2
1
M1
F3

When D lies on , C4
Use B as centre, BD as radius to draw a circle,
cutting DB produced at E on . E
The perpendicular bisector of AD cuts DB
produced at C4. The perpendicular bisector of N
AE cut BD at C5.
We can construct 2 possible triangles B
A
ABC4 and ABC5 satisfying the given E
conditions.
M
C5
D

3. Figure 3 shows a circle of centre C and a line segment MN. P is a point lies inside the circle.
Construct a chord QR with points Q and R on the circumference of the circle so that it passes
through P and its length is equal to that of MN.
(1) Join CP and produce it to 2 ends A, B of the diameter of the
circle as shown. R
6
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of CP, O is the mid-point 4
of CP. A F E 5
D
7
(3) Use O as centre, OC as radius to draw a circle. P
(4) Use A as centre, MN as radius to draw an arc, cutting the Q 8 3 2
given circle at D. O
(5) Join AD. C 1
(6) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AD, E is the mid-point
of AD. AD = MN, CE = CF
(7) Use C as centre, CE as radius to draw an arc, cutting the B
circle in step (3) at F.
(8) Join PF and produce it to cut the circle at Q and R. Then M N
QR is the required chord.
Proof: PFC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
CE = CF (by construction)
QR = AD =MN (chords eq. distance from centre are equal)
Method 2: (Provided by Tsuen Wan Government Secondary School Tam Lok Him)
Let the radius of the given circle be R, the distance between CP be r.
(1) Use M as centre and R as radius to draw an arc, use N as R
centre and R as radius to draw an arc. The two arcs 5
intersect at A.
P
(2) Use A as centre, R as radius to draw a circle C1. The circle 4
C1 must pass through M, N. Q radius = MP
1
(3) Use A as centre, r as radius to draw a circle C2, which cuts

MN at P1. C
(4) On the given circle, use P as centre, MP1 as radius to draw
a circle, which cuts the given circle at Q.
B
(5) Join QP and produce it to cut the given circle at R.
Then QPR is the required chord.
Proof: QP = MP1 (by construction)
CP = AP1 (by construction) P1
M N
CQ = AM (by construction)
CPQ BP1M (S.S.S.) 3 2
height of CPQ = height of BP1M

1
A
QR = MN (chords eq. distance from centre are equal) C1
C2
radius = CP
radius = CR
Remark There are some positions of P inside the circle for which the chord is not constructible.
The circle in step 7 may not cut the circle in step 3. At the limiting position, CQ2 = PQ2 + CP2
4r2 = QR2 + 4CP2 QR = 2 r 2 CP 2
6
4 R
A E 5
D
6
4
7 A E 5
D
P 7
3 P= F
O
2 C
1 C 1
Q
B AD = MN, CE = CF B
M N
For fixed position P, the length of chord must satisfy 2 r 2 CP 2 MN 2r.

1 23.55% 2 26.6% 3 52.16% 4 25.87% 5 60.04%
6 31.34% 7 10.83% 8 70.35% 9 41.22% 10 62.88%
1 22.18% 2 24.69% 3 40.17% 4 43.1% 5 17.57%
6 37.66% 7 11.30% 8 58.16% 9 21.76% 10 3.77%
Individual Events
SI R 30 I1 P 20 I2 P 3 I3 P 7 I4 a 2 IS P 95
S 120 Q 36 Q 5 Q 13 b 1 Q 329
T 11 R 8 R 6 R 5 c 2 *R 6
see the remark
*S 5040 95 + 3 1505 *d
U 72 see the remark
S S 5 see the remark
2 S 198
10
Group Events
SG q 3 G1 a 2 G2 area 40 G3 a 1 G4 P 20 GS see *m
the remark
4
*pairs n 2
k 1 b 3 2550 a+b+c 1 v 6
see the remark
m 3
1
w 25 c 2 x 60 yx r 3 3
2
3 P1
p x 3 P 1 7 *BGHI 6 F 208
2 P2 see the remark
S1.1 Let a, b, c and d be the distinct roots of the equation x4 15x2 + 56 = 0.

If R = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2, find the value of R.
x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
R = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30
S1.2 In Figure 1, AD and BE are straight lines with AB = AC and

AB // ED.
If ABC = R and ADE = S, find the value of S.
ABC = 30 = ACB (base isos. )
ADE = 120 (alt. s AB // ED)
S = 120
log(1 + F )
S1.3 Let F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2S and T = , find the value of T.
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log(1 + F ) log 2121
T= = = 11
log 2 log 2
S1.4 Let f (x) be a function such that f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) and f (n) 0 hold for all integers n 6.
f (T )
If U = , find the value of U.
(T 1) f (T 3)
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f (11) 10 9 8 f (8)
U= = = 89 = 72
(11 1) f (11 3) 10 f (8)
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If the average of a, b and c is 12, and the average of 2a + 1, 2b + 2, 2c + 3 and 2 is P, find the
value of P.
a + b + c = 36 (1)
2a + 1 + 2b + 2 + 2c + 3 + 2 2(a + b + c ) + 8 2 36 + 8
P= = = = 20
4 4 4
I1.2 Let 20112011 = aP5 + bP4 + cP3 + dP2 + eP + f, where a, b, c, d, e and f are integers and 0 a,
b, c, d, e, f < P. If Q = a + b + c + d + e + f, find the value of Q.
20 2 0 1 1 2 0 1 1
20 1 0 0 5 6 0 0 LL 11
20 5 0 2 8 0 LL 0
20 2 5 1 4 LL 0
20 1 2 5 LL 14
6 LL 5
a = 6, b = 5, c = 14, d = 0, e = 0, f = 11; Q = 6 + 5 + 14 + 0 + 0 + 11 = 36
I1.3 If R is the unit digit of the value of 8Q + 710Q + 6100Q + 51000Q, find the value of R.
836 6 (mod 10), 7360 1 (mod 10), 6360 6 (mod 10), 536000 5 (mod 10)
836 + 7360 + 63600 + 536000 6 + 1 + 6 + 5 8 (mod 10)
R=8
I1.4 If S is the number of ways to arrange R persons in a circle, find the value of S.
Reference: 1998 FI5.3, 2000 FG4.4
First arrange the 8 persons in a row. Number of permutations = P88 = 8!
Suppose the first and the last in the row are A and H respectively.
Now join the first and the last persons to form a ring.
A can be in any position of the ring. Each pattern is repeated 8 times.
8!
Number of permutations = = 5040
8
Remark: the original version was "arrange R people"
Note that the word "people" is an uncountable noun, whereas the word "persons" is a
countable noun.
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If the solution of the system of equations x + y = P are positive integers,
3 x + 5 y = 13
find the value of P.
5 P 13
5(1) (2): 2x = 5P 13 x =
2
13 3P
(2) 3(1): 2y = 13 3P y =
2
5 P 13 13 3P
Q x and y are positive integers > 0 and > 0 and P is odd
2 2
13 13
<P< and P is odd P = 3
5 3
I2.2 If x + y = P, x2 + y2 = Q and x3 + y3 = P2, find the value of Q.

x + y = 3, x2 + y2 = Q and x3 + y3 = 9
(x + y)2 = 32 x2 + y2 + 2xy = 9 Q + 2xy = 9 (1)
(x + y)(x2 + y2 xy) = 9 3(Q xy) = 9 Q xy = 3 (2)
(1) + 2(2): 3Q = 15 Q = 5
I2.3 If a and b are distinct prime numbers and a2 aQ + R = 0 and b2 bQ + R = 0, find the value
of R.
a2 5a + R = 0 and b2 5b + R = 0
a, b are the (prime numbers) roots of x2 5x + R = 0
a + b = 5 (1), ab = R (2)
a = 2, b = 3 R = 6
1 1 1 1
I2.4 If S > 0 and + +L+ = 1 , find the value of S.
S (S 1) (S + 1)S (S + 20)(S + 19 ) R
1 1 1 1 1 1 5
+ +L+ =
S 1 S S S +1 S + 19 S + 20 6
1 1 5
=
S 1 S + 20 6
21 5
=
(S 1)(S + 20) 6
5(S2 + 19S 20) = 126
5S2 + 95S 226 = 0
95 + 13545
S=
10
95 + 3 1505
=
10
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If P is a prime number and the roots of the equation x2 + 2(P+1)x + P2 P 14 = 0 are integers,
find the least value of P.
Reference: 2000 FI5.2, 2001 FI2.1, 2010 FI2.2, 2013 HG1
= 4(P + 1)2 4(P2 P 14) = m2
2
m 2 2
= P + 2P + 1 P + P + 14 = 3P + 15
2
The possible square numbers are 16, 25, 36,
3P + 15 = 16 (no solution); 3P + 15 = 25 (not an integer); 3P + 15 = 36 P = 7
The least possible P = 7
I3.2 Given that x2 + ax + b is a common factor of 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11 and x3 + Px 22.
If Q = a + b, find the value of Q.
Let f (x) = 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11; g(x) = x3 + 7x 22
g(2) = 8 + 14 22 = 0 x 2 is a factor
By division g(x) = (x 2)(x2 + 2x + 11); f (x) = (2x + 1)(x2 + 2x + 11)
a = 2, b = 11; Q = a + b = 13
Method 2
Let f (x) = 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11 = (x2 + ax + b)(cx + d)
g(x) = x3 + 7x 22 = (x2 + ax + b)(px + q)
f (x) 2g(x) = 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11 2(x3 + 7x 22) (x2 + ax + b)[(c 2d)x + d 2q]
5x2 + 10x + 55 (x2 + ax + b)[(c 2d)x + d 2q]
By comparing coefficients of x3 and x2 on both sides:
c = 2d and d 2q = 5
5x2 + 10x + 55 5(x2 + ax + b)
a = 2, b = 11
Q = a + b = 13
I3.3 If R is a positive integer and R3 + 4R2 + (Q 93)R + 14Q + 10 is a prime number, find the
value of R. (Reference: 2004 FI4.2)
Let f (R) = R3 + 4R2 80R + 192
f (4) = 64 + 64 320 + 192 = 0 x 4 is a factor
By division, f (R) = (R 4)(R2 + 8R 48) = (R 4)2(R + 12)
Q f (R) is a prime number
R 4 = 1 R = 5 and R + 12 = 17, which is a prime.
I3.4 In Figure 1, AP, AB, PB, PD, AC and BC are line segments
and D is a point on AB. If the length of AB is R times that of
PB
AD, ADP = ACB and S = , find the value of S.
PD
Consider ADP and ABP.
ADP = ACB = APB (given, s in the same segment AB)
DAP = PAB (Common)
APD = ABP (s sum of )
ADP ~ APB (equiangular)
Let AD = k, AB = 5k, AP = y
PB AB AP
= = (Ratio of sides, ~'s)
PD AP AD
PB 5k y
= =
PD y k
2
y y
=5 = 5
k k
PB
= 5
PD
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Consider the function y = sin x + 3 cos x. Let a be the maximum value of y. Find the value of a
( ) ( )
y = sin x + 3 cos x = 2 sin x 12 + cos x 23 = 2 sin x cos 60o + cos x sin 60o = 2 sin(x + 60)
a = maximum value of y = 2
I4.2 Find the value of b if b and y satisfy |b y| = b + y a and |b + y| = b + a.
From the first equation:
(b y = b + y 2 or y b = b + y 2) and b + y 2 0
(y = 1 or b = 1) and b + y 2 0
When y = 1 b 1 LL (3)
When b = 1 y 1 LL (4)
From the second equation:
(b + y = b + 2 or b + y = b 2) and b + 2 0
(y = 2 or 2b + y = 2) and b 2
When y = 2 and b 2 LL (5)
When 2b + y = 2 and b 2 (y 2 and b 2 and 2b + y = 2) LL (6)
(3) and (5): y = 1, b 1 and y = 2 and b 2 contradiction
(3) and (6): y = 1, b 1 and (y 2, b 2, 2b + y = 2) y = 1 and b = 1.5 and b 1 !!!
(4) and (6): (y 1, b = 1) and (y 2, b 2, 2b + y = 2) y = 4, b = 1 and y 1 !!!
(4) and (5): (b = 1, y 1) and (y = 2, b 2) b = 1 and y = 2
b=1
I4.3 Let x, y and z be positive integers. If |x y|2010 + |z x|2011 = b and c = |x y| + |y z| + |z x|,
find the value of c.
Reference: 1996 FI2.3, 2005FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
Clearly |x y| and |z x| are non-negative integers
|x y|2010 + |z x|2011 = 1 (|x y| = 0 and |z x| = 1) or (|x y| = 1 and |z x| = 0)
When x = y and |z x| = 1, c = 0 + |y z| + |z x| = 2|z x| = 2
When |x y| = 1 and |z x| = 0, c = 1 + |y z| + 0 = 1 + |y x| = 1 + 1 = 2
I4.4 In Figure 1, let ODC be a triangle. Given that FH, AB,
AC and BD are line segments such that AB intersects FH
at G, AC, BD and FH intersect at E,GE = 1, EH = c and
FH // OC. If d = EF, find the value of d.
Remark: there are some typing mistakes in the Chinese
old version: AC AD FH // BC
AGE ~ ABC (equiangular)
CE
Let = k, AE = x, AG = t.
AE
BC = k + 1, EC = kx, GB = kt (ratio of sides, ~s)
DEH ~ DBC (equiangular) Method 2
BC k + 1 DB AFG ~ AOB and AGE ~ABC
= = (ratio of sides, ~s)
EH 2 DE d 1 OB
= (ratio of sides, ~s)
Let DE = 2y DB = (k + 1)y 1 BC
EB = DB DE = (k 1)y DFE ~DOB and DEH ~ DBC
AFG ~ AOB (equiangular) d OB
OB AB 2 BC
FG = d 1, = (ratio of sides, ~s)
FG AG Equating the two equations
OB = (d 1)
(k + 1)t = (d 1)(k + 1) d 1 d
=
t 1 2
DFE ~ DOB (equiangular) d = 2
FE DE
OB DB
d = (d 1)(k + 1)
2y
d=2
(k + 1) y
Individual Spare
the value of P.
(2, 2, 1), (2, 2, 3), (3, 3, 1), (3, 3, 2), (3, 3, 4), (3, 3, 5),
(4, 4, 1), (4, 4, 2), (4, 4, 3), (4, 4, 5), (4, 4, 6), (4, 4, 7),
(5, 5, 1), , (5, 5, 4), (5, 5, 6), (5, 5, 7), (5, 5, 8), (5, 5, 9),
(6, 6, 1), , (6, 6, 9) (except (6, 6, 6))
(7, 7, 1), , (7, 7, 9) (except (7, 7, 7))
(8, 8, 1), , (8, 8, 9) (except (8, 8, 8))
(9, 9, 1), , (9, 9, 8)
(2, 3, 4), (2, 4, 5), (2, 5, 6), (2, 6, 7), (2, 7, 8), (2, 8, 9),
(3, 4, 5), (3, 4, 6), (3, 5, 6), (3, 5, 7), (3, 6, 7), (3, 6, 8), (3, 7, 8), (3, 7, 9), (3, 8, 9),
(4, 5, 6), (4, 5, 7), (4, 5, 8), (4, 6, 7), (4, 6, 8), (4, 6, 9), (4, 7, 8), (4, 7, 9), (4, 8, 9),
(5, 6, 7), (5, 6, 8), (5, 6, 9), (5, 7, 8), (5, 7, 9), (5, 8, 9), (6, 7, 8), (6, 7, 9), (6, 8, 9), (7, 8, 9).
(1, 2, 3), , (1, 2, 9) (7 triples)
(1, 3, 4), , (1, 3, 9) (6 triples)
(1, 4, 5), , (1, 4, 9) (5 triples)
(1, 5, 6), , (1, 5, 9) (4 triples)
(1, 6, 7), (1, 6, 8), (1, 6, 9), (1, 7, 8), (1, 7, 9), (1, 8, 9),
(2, 2, 4), , (2, 2, 9) (6 triples)
(2, 3, 5), , (2, 3, 9) (5 triples)
(2, 4, 6), , (2, 4, 9) (4 triples)
(2, 5, 7), (2, 5, 8), (2, 5, 9), (2, 6, 8), (2, 6, 9), (2, 7, 9),
(3, 3, 6), , (3, 3, 9) (4 triples)
(3, 4, 7), (3, 4, 8), (3, 4, 9), (3, 5, 8), (3, 5, 9), (3, 6, 9), (4, 4, 8), (4, 4, 9), (4, 5, 9).
= (8 + 7 + + 1) + (6 + 5 + + 1) + (4 + 3 + 2 + 1) + (2 + 1) = 36 + 21 + 10 + 3 = 70
Q = 3 log128 2 + 5 log128 2 + 7 log128 2 + + 95 log128 2
3 + 95
= (3 + 5 + + 95) log128 2 = 47 log128 2 = log128 22303 = log128 (27)329 = 329
2
1
12x 4y + 24 = 0 Height = 6, base = 2; area R = 6 2 = 6
2
1 1
x x3
1 1 2
S = x + x 2 1 + 2 = R x + 3 = R3 3R = 216 3(6) = 198
1
x x x
Sample Group Event
Group Event 1 (2009 Final Group Event 1)
q=3
4 3x
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4
x y 7
y x 12

x y 7
xy 12
144 144
x x
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
xy 12
Q x y = 7 and x + y = w
w+7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w+7 w7
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
SG.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x + y 2 1 = 0 .
2
Let p = |x| + |y|, find the value of p.
1
2
1 1 3
x= , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 In Figure 1, BC is the diameter of the circle. A is a point on the
circle, AB and AC are line segments and AD is a line segment
perpendicular to BC. If BD = 1, DC = 4 and AD = a, find the
value of a.
ABD ~ CAD (equiangular)
a 4
= (ratio of sides ~s)
1 a
a2 = 1 4
a=2
1
G1.2 If b = 1 , find the value of b.
1
1
1
1
1
1
12
1 1 2 1 1
1 1 = 3; 1 = ; 1 = ; b = 1 + 2 = 3
2 1
1 1 3 1
1 2
2 1 1
1
2
x + 3 y 3z
G1.3 If x, y and z are real numbers, xyz 0, 2xy = 3yz = 5xz and c = , find the value of c.
x + 3 y 6z
2 xy 3 yz 5 xz 2 3 5
= = = = x:y:z=3:5:2
xyz xyz xyz z x y
Let x = 3k, y = 5k, z = 2k
x + 3 y 3z 3k + 15k 6k
c= = =2
x + 3 y 6 z 3k + 15k 12k
G1.4 If x is an integer satisfying log 1 4 (2 x + 1) < log 12 ( x 1) , find the maximum value of x.
log(2 x + 1) log( x 1)
<
1 1
log log
4 2
log(2 x + 1) log( x 1)
<
2 log 2 log 2
log(2x + 1) > 2 log(x 1)
2x + 1 > (x 1)2
x2 4x < 0
0<x<4
The maximum integral value of x is 3.
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, two rectangles with widths 4 and 5
units cross each other at 30. Find the area of the
overlapped region.
Let AB = x, BC = y, ABC = 30
x sin 30 = 5 x = 10
y sin 30 = 4 y = 8
Area = xy sin 30 = 1080.5 = 40
G2.2 From 1 to 100, take a pair of integers (repetitions allowed) so that their sum is greater than
100. How many ways are there to pick such pairs?
(1, 100), (2, 100), , (100, 100) (100 pairs)
(2, 99), , (99, 99) (98 pairs)
(3, 98), , (98, 98) (96 pairs)
...............................................
(49, 52), (50, 52), (51, 52), (52, 52) (4 pairs)
(50, 51), (51, 51) (2 pairs)
2 + 100
Total number of pairs = 2 + 4 + + 100 = 50 = 2550
2
Remark: the original version was "take a pair of numbers"1100
There are infinitely many ways if the numbers are not confined to be integers.
G2.3 In Figure 2, there is a circle with centre O and

radius r. Triangle ACD intersects the circle at
B, C, D and E. Line segment AE has the same
length as the radius. If DAC = 20 and
DOC = x, find the value of x.
AOE = 20 (Given AE = OE, base s isos. )
OED = 20 + 20 = 40 (ext. of AOE)
ODE = OED = 40 (base s isos. )
x = 20 + 40 = 60 (ext. of AOD)
1 2 3 1 6 5 x y z
G2.4 Given that + + = 0 and = 0 . If P = + + , find the value of P.
x y z x y z y z x
8 8
(1) (2): + = 0 y = z
y z
4 4
3(1) + (2): + = 0 x = z
x z
x y z z z z
P= + + = + + = 1
y z x z z z
Group Event 3
G3.1 If a is a positive integer and a2 + 100a is a prime number, find the maximum value of a.
a(a + 100) is a prime number.
a = 1, a2 + 100a = 101 which is a prime number
G3.2 Let a, b and c be real numbers. If 1 is a root of x2 + ax + 2 = 0

and a and b be roots of x2 + 5x + c = 0, find the value of a + b + c.
1 + a + 2 = 0 a = 3
3 + b = 5 b = 2
c = 3b = 6
a+b+c=1
x y 10
G3.3 Let x and y be positive real numbers with x < y. If x + y = 1 and + =
y x 3
and x < y, find the value of y x.
Method 2
(1)2: x + y + 2 xy = 1
x 1 y
1 (x + y ) Let z = , then =
xy = (3) y z x
2
x + y 10
1 10
(2): = (4) (2) becomes z + =
xy 3 z 3
2
3z 10z + 3 = 0
x+ y 10
Sub. (3) into (4): 1 ( x + y )
= (3z 1)(z 3) = 0
3 1
2
z = or 3
6(x + y) = 10(1 x y) 3
16(x + y) = 10 Qx<y
5 x 1
x+y= z= < 1 z = only
8 y 3
1 (x + y ) 1 5 3
xy = = 1 = 1 x
1 13
2 2 8 16 y x y 1
= = =
9 y+ x 1+ x 1+ 1
3
2
xy = y
256 1
25 9 1 Q x + y =1 y x=
(y x)2 = (x + y)2 4xy = = 2
( )( )
64 64 4 1
1 yx= y x y+ x =
yx= 2
2
G3.4 Spilt the numbers 1, 2, , 10 into two groups and let P1 be the product of the first group and
P
P2 the product of the second group. If P1 is a multiple of P2, find the minimum value of 1 .
P2
P1 = kP2, where k is a positive integer.
All prime factors of P2 can divide P1.
10
= 2, 10 must be a factor of the numerator and 5 must a factor of the denominator
5
7 is a prime which must be a factor of the numerator.
Among the even numbers 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, there are 8 factors of 2.
4 factors of 2 should be put in the numerator and 4 factors should be put in the denominator.
Among the number 3, 6, 9, there are 4 factors of 3.
P 8 7 9 10
Minimum value of 1 = =7
P2 1 2 3 4 5 6
Group Event 4
G4.1 If P = 24 2007 2009 2011 2013 + 10 2010 2010 9 4000 , find the value of P.
Let x = 2010, 2007 = x 3, 2009 = x 1, 2011 = x + 1, 2013 = x + 3
( )( )
P = 24 ( x 3) ( x 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 3) + 10 x 2 9 4000 = 24 x 2 9 x 2 1 + 10 x 2 9 4000
= 24 x 4 10 x 2 + 9 + 10 x 2 9 4000 = 2x 4000 = 20
n
G4.2 If 9x2 + nx + 1 and 4y2 + 12y + m are squares with n > 0, find the value of .
m
9x2 + nx + 1 = (3x + 1)2 n = 6
4y2 + 12y + m = (2y + 3)2 m = 9
n 2
=
m 3
47 4 n
G4.3 Let n and + be positive integers. If r is the remainder of n divided by 15, find
5 47 141
the value of r.
47 4 n 4 n n + 12
+ = + = , which is an integer
5 47 141 5 15 15
n + 12 = 15k, where k is a positive integer
r=3
G4.4 In figure 1, ABCD is a rectangle, and E and F are points on

AD and DC, respectively. Also, G is the intersection of AF
and BE, H is the intersection of AF and CE, and I is the
intersection of BF and CE. If the areas of AGE, DEHF and
CIF are 2, 3 and 1, respectively, find the area of the grey
region BGHI. (Reference: 2014 FI1.1)
Remark: there is a spelling mistake in the English version.
old version : gray region
Let the area of EGH = x, area of BCI = z, area of BGHI = w
1
Area of BCE = (area of ABCD) = area ADF + area BCF
2
x+w+z=3+x+2+1+z
w=6
Area of the grey region BGHI = 6
Group Spare
= 1, = 5
If x < 1, |x | + |x | = 1 x + 5 x = 6 2x > 4
If 1 x 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + 5 x = 4
If x > 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + x 5 = 2x 6 > 4
m = min. of |x | + |x | = 4
|x | + |x | |x 1 + 5 x| = 4 m = 4
If , , > 0, then
++ 3
(A.M. G.M.)
3
2 3
4
3
=2>2
4 = (2 2)2
3 2 + 2 = 0
( + 1)(2 2 + 2) = 0
= 1, = 4
|| + || + || = 1 + 1 + 4 = 6
v = min. of || + || + || = 6
of .
y = x + 1 2|x| + 2 x = 3 2|x|
0 |x| 2 3 3 2|x| 1
=3
2 2 2 2
x2 + y2 + z2 + w2 3(x + y + z + w) = 0
2 9 2 9 2 9 2 9
x 3 x + + y 3 y + + z 3 z + + w 3w + = 9
4 4 4 4
2 2 2 2
3 3 3 3
x + y +z +w = 9
2 2 2 2
(2x 3) + (2y 3) + (2z 3) + (2w 3)2 = 36
2 2 2

a , b, c, d = 1, 3, 5
(3, 3, 3, 3) (2) 1
F = (12 + 1)16
= 208
4
1 21 2 13 3 4 4 5 3 Spare
09-10 105
Individual 7
6 1 7 8 154 9 2 10 1508 2
13
09-10 1 118 2 11 3 20 4 144 5 0.8 Spare

Group 6 250000 7 4019 8 10105 9 3 10 20 15
Individual Events
I1 In how many possible ways can 8 identical balls be distributed to 3 distinct boxes so that
every box contains at least one ball?
Align the 8 balls in a row. There are 7 gaps between the 8 balls. Put 2 sticks into two of these
gaps, so as to divide the balls into 3 groups.
| |
The three boxes contain 2 balls, 5 balls and 1 ball.
76
The number of ways is C 27 = = 21
2
I2 If and are the two real roots of the quadratic equation x2 x 1 = 0, find the value of
6 + 8.
Reference 1993 HG2, 2013 HG4
If , are the roots of x2 3x 3 = 0, find 3 + 12.
+ = 1, = 1
2 = + 1
6 = (2)3 = ( + 1)3 = 3 + 32 + 3 + 1
= (2) + 3( + 1) + 3 + 1
= ( + 1) + 6 + 4
= 2 + 7 + 4 = ( + 1) + 7 + 4 = 8 + 5
6 + 8 = 8( + ) + 5 = 8 + 5 = 13
1 1 1 1
I3 If a = + + +L+ , find the value of a. (Reference: 2015 HG1)
5 10 10 15 15 20 100 105
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
a = + + +L+ = 1 + + L + = 1
25 1 2 2 3 3 4 20 21 25 2 2 3 20 21 25 21
20 4
a= =
25 21 105
I4 Given that x + y + z = 3 and x3 + y3 + z3 = 3, where x, y, z are integers. If x < 0, find the value
of y.
Let x = a, where a > 0, then y + z = a + 3 (3), y3 + z3 = a3 + 3 (4)
From (4): (y + z)3 3yz(y + z) = a3 + 3
(a + 3)3 a3 3 = 3yz(a + 3)
a 3 + 9a 2 + 27a + 27 a 3 3 9a 2 + 27a + 24 3a 2 + 9a + 8 8
yz = = = = 3a + (5)
3(a + 3) 3(a + 3) a+3 a+3
yz is an integer a = 1 or 5
Q (y z)2 = (y + z)2 4yz
When a = 1, x = 1, y + z = 4 from (3) and yz = 5 from (5)
(y z)2 = 42 45 = 4 < 0, impossible. Rejected.
When a = 5, y + z = 8 and yz = 16
Solving for y and z gives x = 5, y = 4, z = 4
1 3
I5 Given that a, b, c, d are positive integers satisfying loga b = and logc d = .
2 4
If a c = 9, find the value of b d.
1 3 4
a 2 = b and c 4 = d a = b2 and c = d 3
Sub. them into a c = 9.
4
b2 d 3 = 9
2
2

b + d 3 b d 3 = 9

2 2 2 2
b + d 3 = 3, b d 3 = 3 (no solution, rejected) or b + d 3 = 9, b d 3 = 1
2
b = 5, d = 4 b = 5, d = 8 b d = 3
3
I6 If x 1 y 2 + y 1 x 2 = 1 , where 0 x, y 1, find the value of x2 + y2.

Method 1
Let x = sin A, y = sin B, then 1 y 2 = cos B, 1 x 2 = cos A
The equation becomes sin A cos B + cos A sin B = 1
sin (A + B) = 1
A + B = 90 B = 90 A
x2 + y2 = sin2 A + sin2B = sin2 A + sin2(90 A) = sin2 A + cos2 A = 1
Method 2 x 1 y 2 = 1 y 1 x 2
x2(1 y2) = 1 2y 1 x 2 + y2(1 x2)
2y 1 x 2 = 1 + y2 x2
4y2(1 x2) = y4 2x2y2 + x4 + 2y2 2x2 + 1
x4 + 2x2y2 + y4 2y2 2x2 + 1 = 0
(x2 + y2)2 2(x2 + y2) + 1 = 0
(x2 + y2 1)2 = 0
x2 + y2 = 1
I7. In figure 1, ABCD is a trapezium. The lengths of segments AD, BC
and DC are 12, 7 and 12 respectively. If segments AD and BC are
sin
both perpendicular to DC, find the value of .
sin
Method 1
Draw a perpendicular line from B onto AD.
12 12 12
tan = = 1; tan( + ) = =
12 12 7 5
tan ( + ) tan 125 1 12 5 7
tan = tan[( + ) ] = = = =
1 + tan ( + ) tan 1 + 125 5 + 12 17
7 7 7 1
sin = = = ; sin =
17 2 + 7 2 338 13 2 2
sin 7
=
sin 13
Method 2 ACB = (alt. s, AD // BC)
sin 7 7
= = (Sine law on ABC)
sin AB 13
I8. In Figure 2, ABC is a triangle satisfying x y z and 4x = 7z. If

the maximum value of x is m and the minimum value of x is n,
find the value of m + n.
x = 7k, z = 4k, x + y + z = 180 y = 180 11k
Q x y z 7k 180 11k 4k
18k 180 and 180 15k
12 k 10
84 x = 7k 70
m = 84, n = 70
m + n = 154
I9 Arrange the numbers 1, 2, , n (n 3) in a circle so that adjacent numbers always differ by 1

or 2. Find the number of possible such circular arrangements.
When n = 3, there are two possible arrangements: 1, 2, 3 or 1, 3, 2.
When n = 4, there are two possible arrangements: 1, 2, 4, 3 or 1, 3, 4, 2.
Deductively, for any n 3, there are two possible arrangements:
1, 2, 4, 6, 8, , largest even integer, largest odd integer, , 7, 5, 3 or
1, 3, 5, 7, , largest odd integer, largest even integer, , 6, 4, 2.
I10 If x is the largest integer less than or equal to x, find the number of distinct values in the
12 2 2 2010 2
following 2010 numbers: ,
,, .
2010 2010 2010
Reference: IMO Preliminary Selection Contest - Hong Kong 2006 Q13.
n2
Let f (n) = , where n is an integer from 1 to 2010.
2010
2n + 1
f (n + 1) f (n) =
2010
2n + 1
f (n + 1) f (n) < 1 < 1 n < 1004.5
2010
10052 1005
f (1005) = = = 502.5
2010 2
f (1) = 0, f (2) = 0, , f (1005) = 502, the sequence contain 503 different integers.
On the other hand, when n > 1005, f (n + 1) f (n) > 1
All numbers in the sequence f (1006), , f (2010) are different, total 1005 numbers
503 + 1005 = 1508. The number of distinct values is 1508.
Spare individual
IS In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle and P is a point on
BC. If BP2 + CP2 : AP2 = k : 1, find the value of k.
Let AB = AC = a, BC = 2 a, BP = x, PC = y, AP = t
Let APC = , APB = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
Apply cosine rule on ABP and ACP
t 2 + y2 a2 t 2 + x2 a2 Figure 3
cos = (1); cos = (2)
2ty 2tx
t 2 + y 2 a2 t 2 + x2 a2
(1) + (2): + =0
2ty 2tx
x(t2 + y2 a2) + y(t2 + x2 a2) = 0
t2(x + y) + xy(x + y) a2(x + y) = 0
(x + y)(t2 + xy a2) = 0
x + y = 0 (rejected, Q x > 0, y > 0) or t2 + xy a2 = 0
t2 + xy = a2 (*)
BP2 + CP2 : AP2 = x2 + y2 : t2 = [(x + y)2 2xy] : t2 = [BC2 2xy] : t2 = (2a2 2xy) : t2
= 2(a2 xy) : t2 = 2t2 : t2 by (*)
k=2
Method 2 (Provided by Chiu Lut Sau Memorial Secondary School Ip Ka Ho)
ABC = ACB (base s isosceles triangle)
180 90
o o
= (s sum of )
2
= 45
Rotate AP anticlockwise 90 about the centre at A to AQ. A
AP = AQ and PAQ = 90 (property of rotation)
BAP = 90 PAC = CAQ
Q
AB = AC (given)
ABP ACQ (S.A.S.)
ACQ = ABP = 45 (corr. s s)
BP = CQ (corr. sides s) B P C
PCQ = ACP + ACQ = 90
BP2 + CP2 : AP2 = (CQ2 + CP2) : AP2
= PQ2 : AP2 (Pythagoras theorem)
2
= 1 : cos 45
=2:1
k=2
Group Events
G1 Given that the six-digit number 503xyz is divisible by 7, 9, 11. Find the minimum value of the
three-digit number xyz.
There is no common factor for 7, 9, 11 and the L.C.M. of them are 693.
504 is divisible by 7 and 9. 504504 is divisible by 693.
504504 693 = 503811, 503811 693 = 503118.
The three-digit number is 118.
G2 Find the smallest positive integer n so that 20092009
144 424 L42009
4 3 is divisible by 11.
n copies of 2009

Sum of odd digits sum of even digits = multiples of 11
n(0 + 9) n(2 + 0) = 11m, where m is an integer.
7n = 11m Smallest n = 11.
G3 In figure 1, ABC is a triangle. D is a point on AC such that AB = AD.
If ABC ACB = 40, find the value of x. Reference: 1985 FI2.2
Let ACB = y, then ABC = y + 40
BAC = 180 y y 40 = 140 2y (s sum of ABC)
ADB = ABD =
( )
180o 140o 2 y o
= 20 + y (base s isos. )
Figure 1
2
x = CBD = ADB ACB = 20 + y y = 20 (ext. of BCD)
x = 20
Method 2 Let ACB = y
ADB = x + y (ext. of BCD)
ABD = x + y (base s isosceles ABD)
ABC = x + x + y = 2x + y
ABC ACB = 40
2x + y y = 40
x = 20
G4 In figure 2, given that the area of the shaded region is 35 cm2. If the area
of the trapezium ABCD is z cm2, find the value of z.
Suppose AC and BD intersect at K.
10 12
SBCD = = 60 = SCDK + SBCK = 35 + SBCK SBCK = 25
2
BCK and DCK have the same height but different bases.
BK : KD = SBCK : SDCK = 25 : 35 = 5 : 7 BK = 5t, KD = 7t
BCK ~DAK (equiangular) SBCK : SDAK = BK2 : DK2 = 72 : 52 = 49 :25
ABK and ADK have the same height but different bases.
SABK : SADK = BK : KD = 5 : 7 z = SABCD = 35 + 25 + 49 + 35 = 144
G5 Three numbers are drawn from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Find the probability that the numbers drawn
contain at least two consecutive numbers.
Method 1
Favourable outcomes = {123, 124, 125, 126, 234, 235, 236, 134, 345, 346, 145, 245, 456, 156,
256, 356}, 16 outcomes
16 4
Probability = 6 = = 0.8
C3 5
4
Method 2 Probability = 1 P(135, 136, 146 or 246) = 1 6 = 0.8
C3
G6 Find the minimum value of the following function: f (x) = |x 1| + |x 2| + + |x 1000|,

where x is a real number.
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2011 FGS.1, 2012 FG2.3
Method 1
f (500) = |500 1| + |500 2| + + |500 1000| = (499 + 498 + + 1)2 + 500 = 250000
Let n be an integer, for 1 n 500 and x n,
|x n| + |x (1001 n)| = n x + 1001 n x = 1001 2x 1001 2n
|500 n| + |500 (1001 n)| = 500 n + 501 n = 1001 2n
For 1 n < x 500, |x n| + |x (1001 n)| = x n + 1001 n x = 1001 2n
1000 1000
If x 500, f (x) f (500) = x n 500 n
n =1 n =1
= x n + x (1001 n ) [ 500 n + 500 (1001 n ) ]

500
500
n =1 n =1
500
[1001 2n (1001 2n )] 0
n =1
f (1001 x) = |1001 x 1| + |1001 x 2| + + |1001 x 1000|

= |1000 x| + |999 x| + + |1 x|
= |x 1| + |x 2| + + |x 1000| = f (x)
f (x) f (500) = 250000 for all real values of x.
Method 2 We use the following 2 results: (1) |a b| = |b a| and (2) |a| + |b| |a + b|
|x 1| + |x 1000| = |x 1| + |1000 x| |999| = 999
|x 2| + |x 999| = |x 2| + |999 x| |997| = 997
.................................................................................
|x 500| + |x 501| = |x 500| + |501 x| 1
Add up these 500 inequalities: f (x) 1 + 3 + + 999 = (1 + 999 ) 500 = 250000.
1
2
1 m 1
G7 Let m, n be positive integers such that < < . Find the minimum value of n.
2010 n 2009
Method 1
2009 1 nm 1 2008
= 1 > > 1 =
2010 2010 n 2009 2009
1 2010 n 2009 1
1+ = < < = 1+
2009 2009 n m 2008 2008
1 n m 1
< 1 = <
2009 n m n m 2008
2008 1 m n 2m 1 2007
= 1 > 1 = > 1 =
2009 2009 nm nm 2008 2008
1 2009 n m 2008 1
1+ = < < = 1+
2008 2008 n 2m 2007 2007
1 nm m 1
< 1 = <
2008 n 2m n 2m 2007
1 m 1
Claim: < < for a = 0, 1, 2, , 2008.
2010 a n am 2009 a
Proof: Induction on a. When a = 0, 1, 2; proved above.
1 m 1
Suppose < < for some integer k, where 0 k < 2008
2010 k n km 2009 k
2009 k 1 m n (k + 1)m 1 2008 k
= 1 > 1 = > 1 =
2010 k 2010 k n km n km 2009 k 2009 k
1 2010 k n km 2009 k 1
1+ = < < = 1+
2009 k 2009 k n (k + 1)m 2008 k 2008 k
1 n km m 1
< 1 = <
2009 k n (k + 1)m n (k + 1)m 2008 k
1 m 1
< <
2010 (k + 1) n (k + 1)m 2009 (k + 1)
By MI, the statement is true for a = 0, 1, 2, , 2008
1 m 1
Put a = 2008: < <
2010 2008 n 2008m 2009 2008
1 m
< <1
2 n 2008m
m 2
The smallest possible n is found by =
n 2008m 3
m = 2, n 20082 = 3
n = 4019
1 m 1 n
Method 2 < < 2010 > > 2009 2010m > n > 2009m
2010 n 2009 m
Q m, n are positive integers. We wish to find the least value of n
It is equivalent to find the least value of m.
When m = 1, 2010 > n > 2009, no solution for n.
When m = 2, 4020 > n > 4018
n = 4019
G8 Let a be a positive integer. If the sum of all digits of a is equal to 7, then a is called a lucky
number. For example, 7, 61, 12310 are lucky numbers.
List all lucky numbers in ascending order a1, a2, a3, . If an = 1600, find the value of a2n.
Number of digits smallest, , largest Number of lucky numbers subtotal
1 7 1 1
2 16, 25, , 61, 70 7 7
3 106, 115, , 160 7
205, 214, , 250 6
304, 313, , 340 5

700 1 28
4 1006, 1015, , 1060 7
1105, 1114, , 1150 6
1204, , 1240 5

1600 1 a64 = 1600
2005, , 2050 6

2500 1
3004, , 3040 5

3400 1
4XYZ 4+3+2+1
5XYZ 3+2+1
6XYZ 2+1
7000 1 84
5 100XY 7
10105 1
a128 = 10105
G9 If log4(x + 2y) + log4(x 2y) = 1, find the minimum value of |x| |y|.
(x + 2y)(x 2y) = 4
x2 4y2 = 4
x2 = 4y2 + 4
T = |x| |y| = 4( y 2 + 1) |y|
(
T + |y| = 4 y 2 + 1 )
T2 + y2 + 2|y|T = 4(y2 + 1)
3|y|2 2|y|T + (4 T2) = 0
= 4[T2 (3)(4 T2)] 0
4T2 12 0
T 3
The minimum value of |x| |y| is 3.
G10 In Figure 3, in ABC, AB = AC, x 45. If P and Q

are two points on AC and AB respectively, and AP
= PQ = QB = BC AQ, find the value of x.
Reference:2004 HG9, HKCEE 2002 Q10
Method 1
Join PB. AQP = x (base s isos. )
BPQ = PBQ (base s isos. )
x o C
= (ext. of BPQ)
2
Let R be the mid point of PB. Join QR and P S
produce its own length to S so that QR = RS. R
Join PS, BS and CS. x
PQBS is a //-gram (diagonals bisect each other) A Q B
PS = PQ = BQ = BS (opp. sides of //-gram)
Q PS // QB
CPS = x (corr. s, PS // AB)
PC = AC AP = AB BQ = AQ
SPC PAQ (S.A.S.)
SC = PQ (corr. sides, 's)
BS = SC = BC
BCS is an equilateral triangle.
SBC = SCB = 60
SCP = AQP = x (corr. s, 's)
xo xo
SBQ = + = x (corr. s, 's)
2 2
In ABC, x + x + x + 60 + 60 = 180 (s sum of )
x = 20
Method 2 Let AP = PQ = QB = BC = t, let AQ = y
AQP = x (base s isos. )
AQ = y = 2t cos x = y + t t = AC AP = CP
o
x
= (ext. of BPQ)
2
QPC = 2x (ext. of APQ)
x 3x o
o
BPC = QPC BPQ = 2x =
2 2
o
x
ABC = ACB = 90 (s sum of isos. ABC)
2
xo xo
CBP = ABC PBQ = 90 = 90 x
2 2
CP BC
= (Sine law on BCP)
sin CBP sin BPC
2t cos x o t
=
sin (90 x )
o o
3x o
sin
2
o
3x 1
sin = x = 20
2 2
Method 3 Reflect ABP along PB to RPB

ABP RPB (by construction) R C
Join AR, AB = BR (corr. sides, 's)
AQP = x (base s isos. ) P
x o x
= (ext. of BPQ)
2 A Q B
xo
PBR = (corr. s, 's)
2
xo xo
ABR = ABP + RBP = + = x
2 2
ABR = BAC = x
AC = AB (given)
= BR (corr. sides, 's)
ABR BAC (S.A.S.)
AR = BC (corr. sides, 's)
= AP = PR (given)
APR is an equilateral triangle. (3 sides equal)
PAR = 60 ( of an equilateral triangle)
BAR = 60 + x
xo
ABC = 90 (s sum of isos. ABC)
2
ABC = BAR (corr. s, 's)
o
x
60 + x = 90
2
x = 20
Method 4 Let AP = PQ = QB = BC = t
Use Q as centre, QP as radius to draw an arc, R C
cutting AC at R. QR = QP = t (radius of the arc)
AQP = x (base s isos. ) P t
QPR = 2x (ext. of APQ) t t t
QRP = 2x (base s isos. ) x
BQR = 3x (ext. of AQR) A Q t B
o
3x
QBR = 90 (s sum of isos. QBR)
2
3x o xo
BRC = 90 + x = 90 (ext. of ABR)
2 2
xo
ABC = ACB = 90 = BRC (s sum of isos. ABC)
2
BR = BC = t (sides opp. eq. s)
BQR is an equilateral triangle. (3 sides equal)
BQR = 3x = 60
x = 20
Method 5 Let AP = PQ = QB = BC = t, AQ = y
AQP = x (base s isos. ) E
BPQ = PBQ (base s isos. ) t
o
x
= (ext. of BPQ) D
2
QPC = 2x (ext. of APQ) t
x o 3x o
BPC = QPC BPQ = 2x = C
2 2
o
x
ABC = ACB = 90 (s sum of ABC)
2 t P t
As shown, construct two triangles so that
ABC ACD ADE
x t
Join BE, BD, BP. A y Q t B
AP = BC = t, PQ = CD = t (corr. sides 's)
BCD = 2ACB = 180 x = BQP (adj. s on st. line)
BCD BQP (S.A.S.)
BD = BP (1) (corr. sides 's)
xo xo
CBD = QBP = ; BDC = BPQ = (corr. s 's)
2 2
BDE = ADE + ADC BDC
xo xo xo
= 90 + 90
2 2 2
o
3x
= 180
2
= 180 BPC
= APB (adj. s on st. line)
BDE = APB (2)
AP = DE (3) (by construction, corr. sides 's)
By (1), (2) and (3), BDE BPA (S.A.S.)
BE = AB = y + t = AE (corr. sides 's)
ABE is an equilateral triangle
BAE = x + x + x = 60 (angle of an equilateral triangle)
x = 20
Method 6 The method is provided by Ms. Li Wai Man D E t C

x
Construct another identical triangle ACD so that
ACD = x, CE = t = EP = PA = AD t
CD = AB and AD = BC t P t
ABCD is a parallelogram (opp. sides equal) t t
x
CE = t = QB and CE // BQ (property of //-gram)
BCEQ is a parallelogram (opp. sides equal and //) A Q t B
EQ = t = PQ = EQ (property of //-gram)
PQE is an equilateral triangle
QPE = x + 2x = 60
x = 20
D
t
o
=
x
(ext. of BPQ)
C
2
QPC = 2x (ext. of APQ) P t
x o 3x o
t
BPC = QPC BPQ = 2x = x t
2 2 A y Q t B
o
x
2
As shown, reflect ABC along AC to ADC
ABC ADD
Join BD, BP, PD.
BCD BQP (S.A.S.)
BP = PD (corr. sides 's)
BDP is an equilateral triangle.
3x o
BPD = 2BPC = 2 = 60
2
x = 20
Spare Group
GS In Figure 4, ABCD is a rectangle. Let E and F be two points on
DC and AB respectively, so that AFCE is a rhombus. If AB = 16
and BC = 12, find the value of EF.
Let AF = FC = CE = EA = t
DE = 16 t = BF
In ADE, 122 + (16 t)2 = t2 (Pythagoras Theorem)
144 + 256 32t + t2 = t2
32t = 400
t = 12.5
In ACD, AC2 = 122 + 162 (Pythagoras Theorem)
AC = 20
A t F16 - tB
G = centre of rectangle = centre of the rhombus
AG = GC = 10 (Diagonal of a rectangle) x
t t 12
Let EG = x = FG (Diagonal of a rhombus) 12 x G
In AEG, x2 + AG2 = t2 (Pythagoras Theorem)
2 2 2
x + 10 = 12.5 D
x = 7.5 16 - tE t C
EF = 2x = 15
1. Figure 1 shows a line segment AB of length 1 unit. Construct
a line segment of length 7 units. Figure 1
Method 1
(1) Draw a line segment AC = 4. P
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC, O is the 7 3
mid-point of AC. AO = OC.
(3) Use O as centre, OA = OC as radius to draw a
semi-circle. A 4 O C
(4) Use C as centre, radius 3 to draw an arc, which
intersects the semi-circle at P.
APC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
(5) Join AP.
AP = 42 32 = 7 (Pythagoras Theorem)
Method 2 P
(1) Draw a line segment ABC, with AB = 1, BC = 7.
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC, O is the
mid-point of AC. AO = OC = 4.
(3) Use O as centre, OA = OC = 4 as radius to draw a A 1 B 7 O C
circle with AC as diameter.
(4) Draw a perpendicular line PBQ ABC. Q
PB = BQ ( from centre bisect chord)
By intersection chord theorem, ABBC = PBBQ
17 = PB2
PB = 7
2. Given that ABC is equilateral. P, Q and R are distinct

points lying on the lines AB, BC and CA such that OP
AB, OQ BC, OR CA and OP = OQ = OR. Figure 2 B
shows the line segment OP. Construct ABC.
In the figure, all circles have equal radii. Q H J
Construct equilateral triangles OHP, OHQ, ORI, OPI, HPJ,

O P
HJB, PIK, IKA. C
Join AB. Produce AR and BQ to meet at C. R I K
Then ABC is the required equilateral triangle.

A
3. Figure 3 shows a line segment AB. Construct a triangle

ABC such that AC : BC = 3 : 2 and ACB = 60. D
Method 1 C
1 1
Step 1 Construct an equilateral triangle ABD.
2
Step 2 Construct the perpendicular bisectors of AB and AD
respectively to intersect at the circumcentre O. 3
O 5
Step 3 Use O as centre, OA as radius to draw the
circumscribed circle ABD. 3k M 2k
A P 4
B
4
Step 4 Locate M on AB so that AM : MB = 3 : 2 2
4
(intercept theorem)
X
Step 5 The perpendicular bisector of AB intersect the minor
arc AB at X and AB at P. Produce XM to meet the
circle again at C. Let ACM = , AMC = .
APX BPX (S.A.S.)
AX = BX (corr. sides s)
ACX = BCX = (eq. chords eq. angles)
AMC = , BMC = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
3k : sin = AC : sin (1) (sine rule on ACM)
2k : sin = BC : sin (180 ) (2) (BCM)
Use the fact that sin (180 ) = sin ;
(1) (2): 3 : 2 = AC : BC
ACB = ADB = 60 (s in the same segment)
ABC is the required triangle.
Method 2
C
Step 1 Use A as centre, AB as radius to draw an arc PBH. P
Step 2 Draw an equilateral triangle AHP (H is any point on
the arc) APH = 60
5
2
Step 3 Locate M on PH so that PM = PH 2 2
3 B
(intercept theorem) 4 M 1
3
Step 4 Produce AM to meet the arc at B.
2
Step 5 Draw a line BC // PH to meet AP produced at C. A H
ACB = 60 (corr. s, PH // CB)
ABC ~ AMP (equiangular)
AC : CB = AP : PM (ratio of sides, ~'s)
2
=1: =3:2
3
7
D
C
1 1
2 8
8
2
3 6
O 5
3k M 2k
A 2 4 B L 10k 5 N
4

Step 2 Construct the perpendicular bisectors of AB, BD and AD respectively to intersect at the
circumcentre O.
Step 3 Use O as centre, OA as radius to draw the circumscribed circle ABD.
Step 4 Locate M on AB so that AM : MB = 3 : 2 (intercept theorem)
Step 5 Produce AB to N so that BN = 2AB.
Let AM = 3k, MB = 2k, BN = 10k, then AN : NB = 15k : 10k = 3 : 2 (signed distance)
N divides AB externally in the ratio 3 : 2.
Step 6 Construct the perpendicular bisectors of MN to locate the mid-point L.
Step 7 Use L as centre, LM as radius to draw a semi-circle MCN which intersects the circle
ABD at C.
Step 8 Join AC and BC, then ABC is the required triangle.
Proof: Method 3.1
x
D
C
3 2
A(-5,0) M(-2,0) B(0,0) 4

L(4,0) 6 N(10,0)
For ease of reference, assume AM = 3, MB = 2

Introduce a rectangular co-ordinate system with B as the origin, MN as the x-axis.
The coordinates of A, M, B, L, N are (5, 0), (2, 0), (0, 0), (4, 0) and (10, 0) respectively.
Equation of circle MCN: (x + 2)(x 10) + y2 = 0 y2 = 20 + 8x x2 (1)
Let C = (x, y).
CA = (x + 5)2 + y 2 = x 2 + 10 x + 25 + 20 + 8 x x 2 = 18 x + 45 = 3 2 x + 5 by (1)
CB = x 2 + y 2 = x 2 + 20 + 8 x x 2 = 8 x + 20 = 2 2 x + 5 by (2)
CA 3 2 x + 5 3
= =
CB 2 2 x + 5 2
Proof: (method 3.2)

MN = 12k
ML = LN = 6k D
BL = 4k C
Join CM, CN.
T
Draw TL // CN S x
TL intersects AC, MC
R Q P
and BC at S, R and Q
respectively. x
MCN = 90 3k 2k 4k 6k N
A M B L
in semi-circle
T and P are the feet of perpendiculars from A and B onto TL respectively.

MRL = 90 (corr. s TL//CN)
Let CR = x = RM ( from centre bisects chord)
CSR MSR (S.A.S.) and CQR MQR (S.A.S.)
CS = MS and CQ = MQ (*) (corr. sides, s)
LMR ~ LAT (AT // MR, equiangular)
AT : MR = AL : ML (ratio of sides, ~s)
9k
AT = x = 1.5x
6k
ATS ~ CRS (AT // CR, equiangular)
AS : SC = AT : CR (ratio of sides, ~s)
= 1.5x : x
= 3 : 2 (1)
LMR ~ LBP (BP // MR, equiangular)
BP : MR = BL : ML (ratio of sides, ~s)
4k 2x
BP = x =
6k 3
BPQ ~ CRQ (PB // CR, equiangular)
BQ : QC = BP : CR (ratio of sides, ~s)
2x
= :x
3
= 2 : 3 (2)
By (1): AS : SC = 3 : 2 = AM : MB
SM // CB (converse, theorem of equal ratio)
By (2): BQ : QC = 2 : 3 = BM : MA
AC // MQ (converse, theorem of equal ratio)
CSMQ is a parallelogram formed by 2 pairs of parallel lines
By (*), CS = MS and CQ = MQ
CSMQ is a rhombus
Let SCM = = QCM (Property of a rhombus)
Let AMC = , BMC = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
2k : sin = BC : sin (180 ) (4) (sine rule on BCM)
(3) (4): 3 : 2 = AC : BC
P1 C
1 1
4 5
S 22 V
1
Q R 2
T 2 WA 4
5 B
5
3
2 4
U
Step 1 Construct an equilateral triangle PQR. (QR is any length)
Step 2 Produce PQ and PR longer. On PQ produced and PW produced, mark the points S, T,
U, V and W such that PS = ST = TU = PV = VW, where PS is any distance.
Step 3 Join UW.
Step 4 Copy PUW to BAC.
Step 5 Copy PWU to ABC. AC and BC intersect at C.
Proof: By step 1, QPR = 60 (Property of equilateral triangle)
By step 2, PU : PW = 3 : 2
By step 4 and step 5, PUW = BAC and PWU = ABC
PUW ~ CAB (equiangular)
AC : BC = PU : PW = 3 :2 (corr. sides, ~s)
The proof is completed.
Individual Events
2
SI a 16 I1 a 72 I2 A 2 I3 a 3 I4 a * IS a 20
3
see the remark
3 1
b b 9 B 2 b 18 b 2 b
2 3
c 36 c *31 C 200 c 21 c 1 c 4
see the remark
1 3
d 42 d 1984 D 100 d d d 24
9 4
Group Events
17
SG A G1 44.5 G2 p 6 G3 2 G4 m *3 GS n 4
13 see the remark
x *2 Minimum
B 13 m 1 n 66 y 4 2 86975
y see the remark
7 8 8 1
C 46 k 15 x = 3 A+B+C 6 *
2 3 3 3
see the remark
D 30 n 10 478 8 EC 4 4
SI.1 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. If a = 3 2

2009

16 , find the value of a.
1
0 3 2 1
3 2

0 3 2
2009
1 a = 3 2

2009

16 = 0 + 16 = 16
SI.2 In the coordinate plane, if the area of the triangle formed by the x-axis, y-axis and the line
3x + ay = 12 is b square units, find the value of b.
3
3x + 16y = 12; x-intercept = 4, y-intercept =
4
1 3 3
area = b = 4 =
2 4 2
1 1
SI.3 Given that x 2b and x 3 3 c , find the value of c.
x x
1 1 1
x 3 x 2 2 2 9 x 2 2 11
x x x
1 1 1
c x 3 3 x x 2 1 2 3 11 1 = 36
x x x
SI.4 In Figure 1, = c, = 43, = 59 and = d, find the value of d. A

BAC = (s in the same seg.)
ACD = (s in the same seg.)
D
BAD + BCD = 180 (opp. s cyclic quad.)
c + d + 43 + 59 = 180
d = 180 43 59 36 = 42 ( c = 36)
B C
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Three cubes with volumes 1, 8, 27 are glued together at their faces. If a is the smallest
possible surface area of the resulting polyhedron, find the value of a.
The lengths of the 3 cubes are 1, 2 and 3 with surface areas 6,
24 and 54 respectively.
As shown in the figure, if the three cubes are glued together,
the faces stuck together are 22, 22, 11, 11, 11 and 11.
The smallest possible surface area is 6 + 24 + 54 4 4 4.
a = 72
a
I1.2 Given that f (x) = x2 + 10x + 9, and 2 x . If b is the difference of the maximum and
9
minimum values of f, find the value of b.
f (x) = x2 + 10x + 9 = (x 5)2 + 34 for 2 x 8
Maximum = f (5) = 34
Minimum = f (2) = f (8) = 25
b = 34 25 = 9
I1.3 Given that p and q are real numbers with pq = b and p2q + q2p + p + q = 70.
If c = p2 + q2, find the value of c.
pq = 9 (1),
and pq(p + q) + (p + q) = 70 (pq + 1)(p + q) = 70 (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): 10(p + q) = 70
p + q = 7 (3)
c = p2 + q2
= (p + q)2 2pq
= 72 29 = 31
Remark: The original question is
Given that p and q are integers with pq = b and p2q + q2p + p + q = 70.
However, pq = 9, p + q = 7, which give no integral solution.
I1.4 There are c rows in a concert hall and each succeeding row has two more seats than the
previous row. If the middle row has 64 seats, how many seats does the concert have?
There are altogether 31 rows. The 16th row is the middle row, which has 64 seats.
The 15th row has 64 2 = 62 seats.
...........................................................
The 1st row has 64 215 = 34 seats.
Total number of seats = 2a n 1d
n
2
= 2 34 31 1 2 = 1984
31
2
Method 2
Total number of seats = (1st row + 31st row) + (2nd row + 30th row) + + 16th row
= (64 + 64) + (64 + 64) + + 64 (31 terms) = 1984
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If a, p, q are primes with a < p and a + p = q, find the value of a.
2 is the only prime number which is even. All other primes are odd numbers.
If both a and p are odd, then q must be even, which means that either q is not a prime or q = 2.
Both cases lead to contradiction.
a=2
I2.2 If b and h are positive integers with b < h and b2 + h2 = b(a + h) + ah, find the value of b.
b2 + h2 = 2b + bh + 2h
bh
2
(b + h) 2(b + h) = 3bh < 3

2
(G.M. < A.M., given that b < h)
2
3t 2
Let t = b + h, t2 2t < t2 8t < 0, where t is a positive integer
4
t 8 < 0 t < 8 b + h < 8 2b < b + h < 8 2b < 8 b < 4
b = 1, 2 or 3
When b = 1, 1 + h2 = 2 + h + 2h h2 3h 1 = 0 h is not an integer, rejected
When b = 2, 4 + h2 = 4 + 2h + 2h h2 4h = 0 h = 4
When b = 3, 9 + h2 = 6 + 3h + 2h h2 5h + 3 = 0 h is not an integer, rejected
b=2
Method 2 h2 (b + 2)h + b2 2b = 0
= (b + 2)2 4(b2 2b) = m2, where m is an integer
3b2 + 12b + 4 = m2
3(b 2)2 + 16 = m2
m2 + 3(b 2)2 = 16, both b and m are integers
m = 0, no integral solution for b
m = 2, b = 4, h2 6h + 8 = 0 h = 2 or 4, contradicting b < h, reject
m = 4, b = 2, h = 4 (accept)
I2.3 In a (2b + 1)(2b + 1) checkerboard, two squares not lying in the same row are randomly
chosen. If c is the number of combinations of different pairs of squares chosen, find the value
of c.
There are 25 squares. First we count the number of ways of choosing two squares lying in the
same column or the same row: 5C25 + 5C25 = 100
c = 25C2 100 = 200
Method 2 Label the two squares as A, B.
For each chosen square A (out of 25 squares), B has 16 possible positions.
There are 2516 = 400 combinations.
However, A, B may be inter-changed. We have double counted. c = 200.
1 1 1
I2.4 Given that f (x) = c where x is the greatest integer less than or equal to the
x x 2
real number x. If d is the maximum value of f (x), find the value of d.
1 1
Let = a + b, where a is an integer and 0 b < 1.
x 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
x 2 = a x 2 = a x x 2 = a + b 2 a = b 2
1 1 1 1 1
0 b < 1 b b (equality holds when b = 0)
2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1
f (x) = 200 = 200 b 200 = 100
x x 2 2 2
d = 100 (You may verify the result by putting x = 2.)
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is the number of distinct prime factors of 15147, find the value of a.
15147 = 341117
a=3
1 1
I3.2 If x a and x 3 3 b , find the value of b.
x x
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1996FI1.2, 1998 FG5.2
1 1
x 3 x2 2 2 9
x x
1
x2 2 7
x
1
b = x3 3
x
1 1
= x x 2 1 2
x x
= 3(7 1) = 18
x 5 if x is an odd integer

I3.3 Let f (x) = x .
2 if x is an even integer
If c is an odd integer and f (f (f (c))) = b, find the least value of c.
f (c) = c + 5, which is even
c5
f (f (c)) =
2
c5
If is odd, f (f (f (c))) = 18
2
c5
+ 5 = 18
2
c + 5 = 26
c = 21
c5
If is even, f (f (f (c))) = 18
2
c5
= 18
4
c + 5 = 72
c = 67
The least value of c = 21.
x
I3.4 Let f = x2 + x + 1. If d is the sum of all x for which f (3x) = c, find the value of d.
3
f (x) = (3x)2 + 3x + 1
= 9x2 + 3x + 1
f (3x) = 81x2 + 9x + 1
f (3x) = 21
81x2 + 9x + 1 = 21
81x2 + 9x 20 = 0
9 1
d = sum of roots = =
81 9
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square, E is a point and EAB = 30. If the
D C
area of ABCD is six times that of ABE, then the ratio of AE : AB =
a : 1. Find the value of a.
Let AB = AD = 1, AE = a, let the altitude of ABE from E to AB be h.
1 E
1
area of ABCD is six times that of ABE 1 = 6 1 h
2
a
2
1 h 2 30
h= ,a= = 2h = A 1 B
3 sin 30 3
Remark: The original questions is
ABCD E
EAB = 30 ABCD ABE
AE : AB = a : 1 a
In Figure 1, ABCD is a square, E is a point outside the square
and EAB = 30. If the area of ABCD is six times that of
ABE, then the ratio of AE : AB = a : 1. Find the value of a.
In fact, E must lie inside the square.
log 8 a log 27 a log125 a

I4.2 Given that b = , find the value of b.
log 9 log 25 log 2 log15
a log 8 a log 27 a log125 a3 log 2 3 log 3 3 log 5 2
b= = = 3= 2
2 log 3 2 log 5 log 2 log 3 log 5 log 3 log 5 log 2 3
I4.3 Let c be the remainder of 13 + 23 + + 20093 + 20103 divided by b2, find the value of c.
Use the formula 13 + 23 + + n3 = n 2 n 1 ,
1 2
4
1
13 + 23 + + 20093 + 20103 = 2010 2 20112 = 1005220112 = (4251 + 1)2(4502 + 3)2
4
= (4p + 1)(4q + 1) = 4r + 1, where p, q, r are positive integers.
When it is divided by 2 , the remainder is 1, c = 1.
2
I4.4 In Figure 2, EFG is a right-angled triangle. Given that

H is a point on FG, such that GH : HF = 4 : 5 and
GEH = FEH. If EG = c and FG = d, find the value
of d.
Let FEH = = FEH, GH = 4k, FH = 5k, EG = 1
In EGH, tan = 4k (1)
In EFG, tan 2 = 9k (2)
2 tan 2 4k
Sub. (1) into (2): tan 2 = 9k = F
1 tan
2
1 4k
2
P
1 3
9(1 16k2) = 8 k = d = FG = 5k + 4k = 9k = H
12 4
Method 2 Let GEH = = FEH
From P, draw a line segment FP parallel to GE, which G 1 E
intersects with EH produced at P.
FPH = (alt. s, PF // GE)
FPH ~ GEH (equiangular)
GH GE 4 1
= PF = 1.25 (ratio of sides, ~'s)
HF PF 5 PF
FE = PF = 1.25 (sides opp. eq. s)
d = FG = 1.252 1 = 0.75 (Pythagoras Theorem)
Individual Spare
IS.1 Given that a = 19.19 39.19 38.3839.19 . Find the value of m.
2 2
Let x = 19.19, y = 39.19 then x < y and 38.38 = 2x

a = x 2 y 2 2 xy = y x 2 = y x = 39.19 19.19 = 20
IS.2 Given four points R(0, 0), S(a, 0), T(a, 6) and U(0, 6). If the line y = b(x 7) + 4 cuts the
quadrilateral RSTU into two halves of equal area, find the value of b.
y = b(x 7) + 4 represents a family of
straight lines with slope b which always
U(0, 6) T(20, 6)
pass through a fixed point A(7, 4). A(7, 4)
R(0, 0), S(20, 0), T(20, 6) and U(0, 6). C(10, 3)
RSTU is a rectangle whose base is parallel
to x-axis with centre at C(10, 3).
The line joining AC bisect the area of the
3 4 1 R(0, 0) S(20, 0)
rectangle. b = =
10 7 3
1
x2 2x
IS.3 Given that c is the minimum value of f (x) = 2 b . Find the value of c.
2x 2x 1
x2 2x 3
Let y = f (x) = 2
2x 2x 1
2yx2 + 2yx + y = x2 2x 3
(2y 1)x2 + 2(y + 1)x + (y + 3) = 0
For any values of x, the above quadratic equation has real solution.
0
(y + 1)2 (2y 1)(y + 3) 0
y2 + 2y + 1 (2y2 + 5y 3) 0
y2 3y + 4 0
y2 + 3y 4 0
(y + 4)(y 1) 0
4 y 1
c = the minimum of y = 4
IS.4 Given that f (x) = px6 + qx4 + 3x 2 , and p, q are non-zero real numbers.
If d = f (c) f (c), find the value of d.
d = (pc6 + qc4 + 3c 2 ) (pc6 + qc4 3c 2 ) = 6c = 6(4) = 24
5
SG.1 Given tan = , where 180 270. If A = cos + sin , find the value of A.
12
12 5
cos = , sin =
13 13
12 5 17
A = =
13 13 13

SG.2 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. If B = 10 10 10 10 , find the

value of B.
Reference: 2007 FG2.2 x 3 3 3 3 3 3
Let y = 10 10 10
y2 = 10 + 10 10 10 = 10 + y
y2 y 10 = 0
1 41 1 41
y= or (rejected)
2 2
7 1 41
6 41 7 4
2 2
13.5 10 10 10 10 14 ; B = 13
SG.3 Let a b = ab + 10. If C = (12) 3, find the value of C.

12 = 2 + 10 = 12; C = 123 = 36 + 10 = 46
SG.4 In the coordinate plane, the area of the region bounded by the following lines is D square
units, find the value of D.
L1: y 2 = 0
L2: y + 2 = 0
L3: 4x + 7y 10 = 0
L4: 4x + 7y + 20 = 0
D(-8.5, 2) y=2 C(-1, 2)

2
4x + 7y + 20 = 0 4x + 7y - 10 = 0
-5 O 5
-2
y = -2
A(-1.5, -2) B(6, -2)
It is easy to show that the bounded region is a parallelogram ABCD with vertices A(1.5, 2),
B(6, 2), C(1, 2), C(8.5, 2).
The area D = |6 (1.5)||2 (2)| = 7.54 = 30
Group Event 1
G1.1 Find the value of sin2 1 + sin2 2 + + sin2 89. (Reference 2012 HG9)
sin2 1 + sin2 89 = sin2 1 + cos2 1 = 1
sin2 2 + sin2 88 = sin2 2 + cos2 2 = 1
...................................................................................
sin2 44 + sin2 46 = sin2 44 + cos2 44 = 1
= 44.5
xz z 2y x x
G1.2 Let x, y and z be positive numbers. Given that . Find the value of .
2z x 2x z y y
xz x z 2y x
It is equivalent to (1) and (2)
2z x y 2x z y
From (2), yz + 2y2 = 2x2 xz (x + y)z = 2(x2 y2)
x + y = 0 (rejected, x > 0 and y > 0) or z = 2(x y) (3)
From (1): xy + yz = 2xz x2 (2x y)z = x2 + xy (4)
Sub. (3) into (4): 2(x y)(2x y) = x2 + xy
2(2x2 3xy + y2) = x2 + xy
3x2 7xy + 2y2 = 0
x 1
(3x y)(x 2y) = 0 = or 2
y 3
When y = 3x, sub. into (3): z = 2(x 3x) = 4x (rejected, x > 0 and z > 0)
x
=2
y
a c e a c e bk dk fk
Method 2 k a = bk, c = dk, e = fk = =k
b d f bd f bd f
x a c e x z z 2 y x 2 x 2 y 2 z
k= = = = = 2 ( x + y + z > 0)
y b d f 2 z x 2 x z y x yz
xz z 2y x x
Remark: The original question is: Given that . Find the value of .
2z x 2x z y y
The question has more than one solution.
G1.3 Find the sum of all real roots x of the equation (2x 4)3 + (4x 2)3 = (4x + 2x 6)3.
Let a = 2x 4, b = 4x 2, a + b = 4x + 2x 6, the equation is equivalent to a3 + b3 = (a + b)3
(a + b)(a2 ab + b2) = (a + b)3
a2 ab + b2 = a2 + 2ab + b2 or a + b = 0
3ab = 0 or 4x + 2x 6 = 0
2x = 4 or 4x = 2 or (2x 2)(2x + 3) = 0
1
x = 2, or 1
2
Sum of all real roots = 3.5
G1.4 In Figure 1, if AB CDF is the midpoint of BE, A = 45,

DF = 3, BD = 4 and AD = n, find the value of n.
Let G be the foot of perpendicular drawn from E onto CF.
BFD = CFE (vert. opp. s)
BF = 5 (Pythagoras Theorem)
EF = 5 (Given F is the midpoint)
BDF = 90 = EGF (by construction)
BDF EGF (A.A.S.)
FG = DF = 3 (corr. sides, s)
EG = 4 (corr. sides, s)
ACD = 45 (s sum of ACD)
ACD is a right-angled isosceles triangle. A
CD = AD = n (sides opp. equal angle)
EG CD EG // AD CEG ~ CAD (equiangular) 45
CG = EG = 4 (ratio of sides, ~'s) n

n = AD = CD = 3 +3 + 4 = 10 E
D 3
4
F
G
B C
A
Method 2
45
Draw EG // CD, which intersects AB at G.
GD = BD = 4 (BF = FE and FD // EG, intercept theorem) n
GE = 2DF = 6 (mid-points theorem) G
E
AGE = 90 (corr. s, EG // CD) D 3
AGE is a right-angled isosceles triangle. 4
F
AG = GE = 6 (sides opp. eq. s)
B C
n = AG + GD = 6 + 4 = 10
Group Event 2
G2.1 If p = 2 22 23 24 29 210 + 211, find the value of p.
p = 2 + 211 (22 + 23 + 24 + + 29 + 210) = 2 + 211

2 2 29 1
= 2 + 211 211 + 22 = 6
2 1
G2.2 Given that x, y, z are three distinct real numbers.
1 1 1
If x y z and m = x2y2z2, find the value of m.
y z x
1 1 1
Let x = k (1), y = k (2), z = k (3)
y z x
1 ky 1 1 y
From (1), x = k = =
y y x ky 1
Sub. into (3): z +

y
=kz=
k 2 1y k
ky 1 ky 1
ky 1
k 1y k = k (k 1)y ky + ky 1 = k(k 1)y k
2 2 2 2
Sub. into (2): y + 2
(k2 1)y2 k(k2 1)y + (k2 1) = 0

k2 1 = 0 or y2 ky + 1 = 0
k k2 4
If k 1 0, then y ky + 1 = 0 y =
2 2
2
The system is symmetric for x, y, z
k k2 4
x or z = , this contradict to the fact that x, y, z are distinct.
2
y2 ky + 1 0
k2 = 1 k = 1 or 1
1
When k = 1, x = k = 1 =
1 y 1
;z=

k 2 1 y k
=
1
y y y ky 1 y 1
y 1 1
xyz = y = 1
y y 1
When k = 1, x = k
1 1
= 1 =
y 1
;z=
k 2 1y k = 1
y y y ky 1 y 1
y 1 1
xyz = y =1
y y 1
m = x2y2z2 = 1
1 1 1 1 yz
Method 2 x y x y x y (1)
y z z y yz
1 1 1 1 zx
y z yz yz (2)
z x x z xz
1 1 1 1 x y
x z zx zx (3)
y x y x xy
yz zx x y
(1)(2)(3): x y y z z x
1
1 2 2 2 m = x2y2z2 = 1
yz xz xy x y z
G2.3 Given that x is a positive real number and x3 = 3 . If k is a positive integer and k < x < k + 1,
x 18
find the value of k.

The equation is equivalent to 318x x = 0. Let f (x) = 318x x.
Clearly f (x) is a continuous function.
f (15) = 33 15 = 12 > 0, f (16) = 32 16 = 7 < 0
By intermediate value theorem (or Bolzanos theorem), we can find a real root 15 < x < 16.
k = 15
G2.4 Figure 1 shows the sequence of figures that are made of squares of white and black. Find the
number of white squares in the 95th figure.
1st figure 2nd figure 3rd figure

1st figure = 8 white squares; 2nd figure = 13 squares; 3rd figure = 18 squares
T(1) = 8, T(2) = 8 + 5, T(3) = 8 + 52, , T(95) = 8 + 5(95 1) = 478
Group Event 3
G3.1 Find the smallest prime factor of 101303 + 301101. (Reference: 1999 FIS.1)
Both 101303 and 301101 are odd integers
101303 + 301101 is even
The smallest prime factor is 2.
1
G3.2 Let n be the integral part of 1 . Find the value of n.
1980 1981 2009
1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
(30 terms)
2009 2009 1980 1981 2009 1980 1980
30 1 1 1 30

2009 1980 1981 2009 1980
1980 1 2009 2010
66 1 67
1980 1981 2009
1 1
30 30 30
n = integral part = 66
G3.3 In Figure 1, A = 60, B = D = 90. BC = 2, CD = 3 and
AB = x, find the value of x.
AC2 = x2 + 4 (Pythagoras Theorem on ABC)
AD = AC 3 (Pythagoras Theorem on ACD)
2 2 2
= x2 5
BD2 = x2 + (x2 5) 2x x 2 5 cos 60 (cosine rule on ABD)
BD2 = 22 + 32 223 cos 120 (cosine rule on BCD)
2x2 5 x x 2 5 = 13 + 6
x x 2 5 = 2x2 24
x2(x2 5) = 4x4 96x2 + 576
3x4 91x2 + 576 = 0
(x2 9)(3x2 64) = 0
8 Method 2
x = 3 or
3 BD2 = 22 + 32 223 cos 120
(cosine rule on BCD)
When x = 3, AD = x 2 5 = 2
BD = 19
2 3 1
tan BAC = , tan CAD = = ABC + ADC = 180
3 2 tan BAC A, B, C, D are concyclic
BAC + CAD = 90 (opp. s supp.)
BAD = 60 90 reject x = 3
8 7 AC = x 2 4 = diameter = 2R
When x = , AD = x 2 5 = (converse, in semi-circle, R = radius)
3 3
BD
3 3 3 2 R (Sine rule on ABD)
tan BAC = , tan CAD = sin 60
4 7 19
3
3 3
19 3 x2 4
tan (BAC + CAD) = 4 3 73 3 = = 3 = tan 60 2 3
1 4 7 19
76 = 3x2 + 12
8 8 8 8
x= = 3 x= = 3
3 3 3 3
G3.4 Given that the function f satisfies f (2 + x) = f (2 x) for every real number x and that f (x) = 0
has exactly four distinct real roots. Find the sum of these four distinct real roots.
Let two of these distinct roots be 2 + , 2 + , where and , 0.
f (2 + x) = f (2 x) f (2 + ) = f (2 ) = 0; f (2 + ) = f (2 ) = 0
If = 0, then 0 there are only three real roots 2, 2 + , 2 contradiction, rejected.
0 and 0 The four roots are 2 + , 2 , 2 + , 2 .
Sum of roots = 2 + + 2 + 2 + + 2 = 8
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let a be an integer and a 1. Given that the equation (a 1)x2 mx + a = 0 has two roots
which are positive integers. Find the value of m.
Let the 2 roots be , .
a
=
a 1
a
, are positive integers is a positive integer is a positive integer
a 1
However, a and (a 1) are relatively prime.
a1=1a=2
Put a = 2 into the original equation: x2 mx + 2 = 0
= 2 = 2, = 1 or = 1, = 2
m=+=3
Given that the equation (a 1)x2 mx + a = 0 has two roots which are positive integers. Find
the value of m.
If a = 1, then it is not a quadratic equation, it cannot have 2 positive integral roots.
a
If a is any real number 1, the equality = could not implies a = 2
a 1
e.g. a = 1.5 = 3 0.5x2 mx + 1.5 = 0 x2 2mx + 3 = 0 m = 2 (Not unique)
G4.2 Given that x is a real number and y = x 2 2 x 2 x 2 10 x 34 . Find the minimum value
of y. Reference 2015 HI9
Consider the following problem:
Let P(1, 1) and Q(5, 3) be two points. R(x, 0) is a variable Q(5, 3)
point on x-axis.

2 2
P(1, 1)
If we reflect P(1, 1) along x-axis to P1(1, 1), M(1, 0) is
the foot of perpendicular,
then PMR P1MR (S.A.S.)
y = PR + RQ = P1R + RQ P1Q (triangle inequality) O M (1, 0) R(x, 0) 5
y 5 1 3 1 = 4 2 P1(1, -1)
2 2
G4.3 Given that A, B, C are positive integers with their greatest common divisor equal to 1.
If A, B, C satisfy A log500 5 + B log500 2 = C, find the value of A + B + C.
log500 5A + log500 2B = log500 500C log500 5A2B = log500 500C 5A2B = 53C22C
A = 3C, B = 2C (unique factorization theorem)
A, B, C are relatively prime.
C = 1, A = 3, B = 2
A+B+C=6
G4.4 In figure 1, BEC is a semicircle and F is a point on the
diameter BC. Given that BF : FC = 3 : 1, AB = 8 and AE = 4.
Find the length of EC.
Join BE. It is easy to show that BEF ~ ECF (equiangular)
Let BF = 3k, CF = k
EF : 3k = k : EF (corr. sides, ~'s)
EF = 3 k
BE2 = BF2 + EF2 = 9k2 + 3k2 (Pythagoras Theorem on BEF) BE = 12 k
BEC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
2 2
BE + AE = AB 2
(Pythagoras Theorem on ABE)
12k + 16 = 64 k = 2
2
EC2 = CF2 + EF2 = 22 + 322 (Pythagoras Theorem on CEF)

EC = 4
Method 2
BEC = 90 ( in semi-circle) A
BEA = 90 (adj. s on st. line)
AE 4 1 4
cos BAE =
AB 8 2 8
E
BAE = 60
Let BF = 3k, CF = k, ECB = .
CEF = 90 (s sum of CEF)
CBE = 90 (s sum of BCE) B 3k F k C
BEF = (s sum of BEF)
CEF ~ EBF (equiangular)
CF EF
(corr. sides, ~s)
EF BF
EF2 = k3k EF = 3 k
EF 3k
tan ECF = 3
CF k
ECF = 60
ABE CBE (A.A.S.)
CE = AE = 4 (corr. sides, s)
Group Spare
GS.1 Given that n is a positive integer. If n2 + 5n + 13 is a perfect square, find the value of n.
n2 + 5n + 13 = n2 + 5n + 2.52 2.52 + 13 = (n + 2.5)2 + 6.75 = m2, where m is an integer
m2 (n + 2.5)2 = 6.75 (m + n + 2.5)(m n 2.5) = 6.75 (2m + 2n + 5)(2m 2n 5) =27
2m 2n 5 27 2 m 2 n 5 9
or
2m 2n 5 1 2 m 2n 5 3
n = 4 or n = 1 (rejected, n > 0)
k k 1
2
GS.2 Given that 13 + 23 + + k3 = . Find the value of 11 + 12 + + 24 .

3 3 3
2
11 + 12 + + 24 = 1 + 2 + + 243 (13 + 23 + + 103)
3 3 3 3 3
1 1 1 1
= 24 2 25 2 10 2 112 = 6 2 100 2 10 2 121
4 4 4 4
= 360000 12100 = 347900 = 86975
1 1
4 4
GS.3 If P is an arbitrary point in the interior of the equilateral triangle ABC, find the probability that
the area of ABP is greater than each of the areas of ACP and BCP.
C C
H1 U
H1
E F E F
z1
z1 H
L1 Q1 L1
sy
1 X
P1 y1 R1 s
G G t P
N1 t 1
Y M1
x1
x1
K1 T Z K1
A D B A D B
D, E, F be the mid-points of AB, AC and BC respectively.
The medians CD, BE and AF are concurrent at the centroid G.
It is easy to see that CEG, CFG, AEG, ADG, BDG, BFG are congruent triangles
having the same areas.
P is any point inside the triangle P lies on or inside one of these six congruent triangles.
As shown in the diagram, P1 lies inside BFG. Let the feet of perpendiculars from P1 to AB,
BC, CA be K1, L1, H1 with lengths x1, y1 and z1 respectively.
P1H1 and AF meet at R1, P1K1 intersects BE at M1, and AF at Q1, L1P1 produced meet BE at N1
By the properties on parallel lines, we can easily prove that P1M1N1 and P1Q1R1 are
equilateral triangles. Let P1M1 = P1N1 = N1M1 = t, P1Q1 = P1R1 = Q1R1 = s
Let H and Y be the midpoints of Q1R1 and N1M1 respectively. R1H = 0.5s, YM1 = 0.5t
Let U and T be the feet of perpendiculars from H to AC and AB respectively.
Let X and Z be the feet of perpendiculars from Y to BC and AB respectively.
UH = z1 s + 0.5s cos 60 = z1 0.75s, YZ = x1 t + 0.5t cos 60 = x1 0.75t
HT = x1 + 0.75s, YX = y1 + 0.75t
It is easy to show that AHU AHT, BYX BYZ (A.A.S.)
UH = HT and YZ = YX (corr. sides, s) z1 0.75s = x1 + 0.75s, x1 0.75t = y1 + 0.75t
z1 = x1 + 1.5s, x1 = y1 + 1.5t z1 > x1 > y1
1 1 1
ACz1 > ABx1 > BCy1 area of ACP1 > area of ABP1 > area of BCP1
2 2 2
If P2 lies inside BDG, using a similar method, we can easily prove that
area of ACP2 > area of BCP2 > area of ABP2.
If P3 lies inside ADG, then area of BCP3 > area of ACP3 > area of ABP3.
If P4 lies inside AEG, then C
area of BCP4 > area of ABP4 > area of ACP4.
If P5 lies inside CEG, then
area of ABP5 > area of BCP5 > area of ACP5.
If P6 lies inside CFG, then
area of ABP6 > area of ACP6 > area of BCP6 E
H2
F
In order that the area of ABP is greater than each of the
areas of ACP and BCP, P must lie inside CEG or z2
G
L2
CFG P2
y2
Required probability x2
Area of CEG area of CFG 2 1 A D K2 B
= = =
Area of ABC 6 3
Method 2 Suppose P lies inside BDG. C
Produce AP, BP, CP to intersect BC, CA, AB at L, M, N
respectively.
Let SXYZ denotes the area of XYZ.
S APB S ABM S BPM
=
S APC S ACM S CPM
E F
2 BM AM sin AMB 2 BM PM sin AMB
1 1
=1
2 CM AM sin AMC 2 CM PM sin AMC
1
N
1
BM sin AMB AM PM BM sin AMB G
= 12 =
2 CM sin AMC AM PM CM sin AMC M
BM P
= ( sin AMB = sin (180AMC) = sin AMC)
MC L
A D B
S APB S ABN S APN
=
S BPC S BCN S CPN
1
BN AN sin ANB 12 AN PN sin ANB
= 12
2 BN NC sin BNC 2 NC PN sin BNC
1
1
AN sin ANB BN PN AN sin ANB
= 12 =
2 NC sin BNC BN PN NC sin BNC
AN
= ( sin ANB = sin(180 BNC) = sin BNC)
NC
In order that the area of ABP is greater than each of the areas of ACP and BCP,
BM > MC and AN > NC
P must lie inside CEG or CFG
S S CFG 2 1
Required probability = CEG = =
S ABC 6 3
P ABC ABP ACP BCP

If P is an arbitrary point in the interior of the equilateral triangle ABC, find the probability that
the area of ABP is greater than both of the areas of ACP and BCP.
There is a slight difference between the Chinese version and the English version.
GS.4 How many positive integers m are there for which the straight line passing through points
A(m, 0) and B(0, 2) and also passes through the point P(7, k), where k is a positive integer?
Let the slope of the variable straight line be a. Then its equation is: y = ax + 2
am 2 0 1
It passes through A(m, 0) and P(7, k):
7a 2 k 2
7(1) + m(2): 14 + 2m = km m(k 2) = 14
m = 1, k = 16 or m = 2, k = 9 or m = 7, k = 4 or m = 14, k = 3
Number of positive integral values of m is 4.
2300 113
1 2 2 3 60 4 4 5 (= 28.25) Spare
08-09 9801 4
Individual 2007 3
6 7 9 3 8 7 9 32 10 200
2008 2
1 105 2 2 2 3 9 4 7 5 16 Spare
08-09
Group 2 21 2 8
6 7 4 8 9 10 10 (= 1.6) 16
3 5 5
Individual Events

I1 Let x = 0. 2 3+ 0.00 2 3+ 0.0000 2 3+ 0.000000 2 3+ L , find the value of x .

Reference: 2000 HI1 Let x = 0.1 7+ 0.0 1 7+ 0.00 1 7+ ...
23 23 23
0. 2 3 = ; 0.00 2 3 = ; 0.0000 2 3 = ;
99 9900 990000
23 23 23 23 1 1 23 1 23 100 2300
x= + + + L = 1 + + + L = = =
99 9900 990000 99 100 10000 99 1 100 99 99 9801
1
I2 In Figure 1, a regular hexagon and a rectangle are given. The

vertices of the rectangle are the midpoints of four sides of the
hexagon. If the ratio of the area of the rectangle to the area of the
hexagon is 1 : q, find the value of q.
Let one side of the hexagon be 2a, the height of the rectangle be
x, the length be y.
x = 2a cos 30 = 3a , y = 2a cos 60 + 2a = 3a
Ratio of area = 3a 3a : 6 (2a ) sin 60 o = 3 3 : 6 3 = 1 : 2
1 2
2
q=2
The following method is provided by Mr. Jimmy Pang from Sai E D
Kung Sung Tsun Catholic School (Secondary).
P
Let the hexagon be ABCDEF, the rectangle be PQRS as shown. S
Fold FPQ along PQ to F'PQ. Fold CSR along SR to C'SR. F
C
Fold EDSP along PS to F'C'SP. Fold ABRQ along QR to F' C'
F'C'RQ. Then the folded figure covers the rectangle completely. Q R
Ratio of area = 1 : 2; q = 2
A B
I3 Let 16 sin4 = 5 + 16 cos2 and 0 90, find the value of .

16 sin4 = 5 + 16 (1 sin2 )
16 sin4 + 16 sin2 21 = 0
(4 sin2 3)(4 sin2 + 7) = 0
3 7
sin2 = or (rejected)
4 4
3 3
sin = or (rejected)
2 2
= 60
I4 Let m be the number of positive factors of gcd(2008, 4518), where gcd(2008, 4518) is the
greatest common divisor of 2008 and 4518. Find the value of m.
2008 = 8251; 4518 = 29251
gcd = 2251 = 502
The positive factors are 1, 2, 251, 502; m = 4
I5 Given that x2 + (y 3)2 = 7, where x and y are real numbers. If the maximum value of 5y + x2
is k, find the value of k.
x2 = 7 (y 3)2; sub. into 5y + x2 = 5y + 7 (y 3)2
= 5y + 7 y2 + 6y 9
= y2 + 11y 2 = (y2 11y + 5.52 5.52) 2
= (y 5.5)2 + 30.25 2 = = (y 5.5)2 + 28.25
Maximum value = k = 28.25
Method 2 z = 5y + x2 = y2 + 11y 2
y2 11y + (z + 2) = 0
Discriminant 0 for all real value of y.
(11)2 4(1)(z + 2) 0 121 4z 8 0
113 113
z ;k=
4 4
1
I6 Let f1(x) = and fn(x) = f1(fn1(x)), where n = 2, 3, 4, . Find the value of f2009(2008).
1 x
1 1 1 x x 1
f2(x) = f1(f1(x)) = f1 = = =
1 x 1 1 x 1 x 1
1
x
x 1 1
f3(x) = f1(f2(x)) = f1 = = x , f3n(x) = x for all positive integer n.
x 1 (1 1x )
2008 1 2007
f2009(2008) = f2(f2007(2008)) = f2(f3(669)(2008)) = f2(2008) = =
2008 2008
I7 In Figure 2, ABCDEF is a regular hexagon centred at the point
P. PST is an equilateral triangle. It is given that AB = 6 cm,
QD = 2 cm and PT = 12 cm. If the area of the common part of
the hexagon and triangle is c cm2, find the value of c.
Join PD and CP. CDP is an equilateral triangle, side = 6 cm
QPR + QDR = 60 + 120 = 180
DQPR is a cyclic quadrilateral (opp. sides supp.)
PQD = PRC (ext. , cyclic quad.)
DPQ = 60 DPR = CPR
CP = DP sides of an equilateral triangle
CPR DPQ (AAS)
Shaded area = area of PDQ + area of PDR
= area of CPR + area of PDR = area of CPD
1
= 6 2 sin 60o = 9 3 cm2; c = 9 3
2
I8 Find the unit digit of 72009.
Reference: 2006 HI9: Given that the units digit of 7 2006 is C, .....
71 = 7, 72 9 (mod 10), 73 3 (mod 10), 74 1 (mode 10)
72009 = (74)5027 7 mod 10
I9 Given that a and b are integers. Let a 7b = 2 and log2b a = 2, find the value of ab.
(2b)2 = a 4b2 = 7b + 2 4b2 7b 2 = 0 (b 2)(4b + 1) = 0
1
b = 2 or (rejected)
4
a = 7b + 2 = 16; ab = 32
I10 In Figure 3, ABCD is a rectangle. Points E and F lie on CD and AD

respectively, such that AF = 8 cm and EC = 5 cm. Given that the area
of the shaded region is 80 cm2. Let the area of the rectangle ABCD be
g cm2, find the value of g.
Let DF = x cm, DE = y cm
g = xy + (8 + x ) 5 + ( y + 5) 8 + 80
1 1 1
2 2 2
=
1
(xy + 5 x + 8 y + 40 + 200)
2
=
1
[(x + 8)( y + 5) + 200] = 1 g + 100
2 2
g = 200
1
IS Given that a is a negative real number. If = 2 , find the value of a.
a + a 1+ 2
2 2 3
1 = 2a + 1 2a = 2 3a 2a2 = 2 a =
a+2 a+2 2
Group Events
1 1 1 272
G1 If a is a positive integer and + +L+ = , find the value of a.
a(a + 1) (a + 1)(a + 2 ) 2008 2009 30135
1 1 1 1 1 1 272
+ +L+ =
a a + 1 a + 1 a + 2 2008 2009 30135
1 1 272 1 272 1 272 + 15 287 1
= = + = = = ; a = 105
a 2009 30135 a 2009 15 2009 2009 15 3 5 7 41 15 7
2
G2 Let x = 1+ 2 , find the value of x5 2x4 + 3x3 4x2 10x 6.

Reference: 1993 HI9, 2000 HG1, 2001 FG2.1, 2007 HG3
Method 1
x 1 = 2 , (x 1)2 = 2 x2 2x 1 = 0
By division, x5 2x4 + 3x3 4x2 10x 6 = (x2 2x 1)(x3 + 4x + 4) + 2x 2 = 2x 2
( )
= 2 1+ 2 2 = 2 2
Method 2 Divide x5 2x4 + 3x3 4x2 10x 6 by (x 1) successively:

1 1 2 3 4 10 6
1 1 2 2 12 Let y = x 1, the expression in terms of y becomes
1 1 1 2 2 12 18 y5 + 3y4 + 5y3 + 3y2 12y 18
1 1
1
0
0
2
2
0 12
0 5 4
( ) ( ) ( )
3
= 2 + 3 2 + 5 2 + 3 2 12 2 18
2
1 1 3 = 4 2 + 12 + 10 2 + 6 12 2 18
1 1 1 3 3 =2 2
1 2
1 1 2 5
1
1 3
2 1
G3 Given that p and q are integers. If + = 1 , find the maximum value of pq.
p q
1 1 1
Reference 2008 HI3 + = . If 35 < y0 < 50 and x0 + y0 = z0
x y 15
2q + p = pq pq p (2q 2) = 2 (p 2)(q 1) = 2
(p 2, q 1) = (1, 2), (2, 1), (1, 2), (2, 1)
(p, q) = (3, 3), (4, 2), (1, 1), (0, 0) maximum pq = 33 = 9
G4 Given that 0 x 180. If the equation cos 7x = cos 5x has r distinct roots, find the value of r.
7x = 5x + 360n or 7x = 360 5x + 360n
x = 180n or x = 30(n + 1)
n = 0, x = 0 or 30
n = 1, x = 180 or 60
n=2 x = 90
n=3 x = 120
n=4 x = 150
r=7
G5 Let x, y and z be positive integers and satisfy z 28 = x y . Find the value of x + y + z.
( )
2
z 28 = x y z 2 7 = x + y 2 xy x + y = z; xy = 7
x = 7, y = 1; z = 1 + 7 = 8; x + y + z = 16
G6 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square and AM = NB = DE = FC = 1 cm 1 cm E 1 cm H 1 cm F 1 cm
D
and MN = 2 cm. Let the area of quadrilateral PQRS be c cm2, C
DF = 3 cm, AD = CD = 4 cm, AF = 32 + 4 2 cm = 5 cm = DN R
ADF NFD (SAS) AFD = NDF (corr. s 's) 4 cm
S G Q
DS = FS (sides opp. eq. s)
But DSF NSA (ASA) AS = SF = 12 AF = 52 cm P
Let H be the mid point of EF. EH = HF = 1 cm
Suppose SQ intersects PR at G. A M N B
It is easy to show that ADF ~ RHF ~ RGS
FR FH FR 1 5
= = FR = cm (ratio of sides, ~'s)
AF AD 5 cm 3 3
5 5 5
SR = SF RF = cm cm = cm
2 3 6
2
Area RGS SR
2
Area RGS 5
= 6
1
= 5
Area RSG = cm2
Area ADF AF 1 3 4cm 2 6
2
Area of PQRS = 4 area of RSG = 23 cm2, c = 23
Method 2 Let RFH = = PCH = CMB (corr. s and alt. s, //-lines)
HR HP 4 4 8
tan = = = HR = cm; HP = cm
1 cm 2 cm 3 3 3
8 4 4
PR = HP HR = cm = cm
3 3 3
Further, FCQS is a //-gram. SQ = FC = 1 cm (opp. sides, //-gram)
Area of PQRS = 12 PR SQ = 12 43 1 cm2; c = 23
G7 Given that x is a real number and satisfies 22x+8 + 1 = 322x. Find the value of x.
Let y = 2x, y2 = 22x, the equation becomes: 28y2 + 1 = 32y
256y2 32y + 1 = 0 (16y 1)2 = 0 y = 161 2x = 24; x = 4
G8 In Figure 2, ABC is a right angle, AC = BC = 14 cm and
CE = CF = 6 cm. If CD = d cm, find the value of d.
Reference: 2005 HI5, 2012 HI10
ACD = BCD = 45
We find the area of ACBD in two different ways.
SACBD = SACD + SBCD = SACF + SBCE SCDE SCDF
2 12 14d sin 45o = 2 12 6 14 2 12 6d sin 45o
20d 1
2
= 84 d = 215 2
Method 2 Set up a coordinate system with BC as x-axis, CA as y-axis, and C as the origin.
x y
Equation of AF in intercept form: + = 1 (1)
6 14
Equation of CD is y = x (2)
x y 21 21 21 2
Sub. (2) into (1): + = 1 x = d = sin 45 =
6 14 5 5 5
G9 If there are 6 different values of real number x that satisfies ||x2 6x 16| 10| = f, find the
value of f. (Reference: 2002 FG4.3, 2005 FG4.2, 2012 FG4.2)
Remark: The original solution is wrong. Thanks for Mr. Ng Ka Loks (from EDB) comment.
Absolute values must be non-negative, f 0 (*)
|x2 6x 16| 10 = f
|x2 6x 16| = 10 + f or |x2 6x 16| = 10 f (**)
x2 6x 16 = 10 + f, x2 6x 16 = 10 f, x2 6x 16 = 10 + f, x2 6x 16 = 10 f
x2 6x 26f = 0(1), x2 6x 26+f = 0(2), x2 6x 6f = 0(3), x2 6x 6+f = 0(4)
The respective discriminants are: 1 = 4(35 + f), 2 = 4(35 f), 3 = 4(15 + f), 4 = 4(15 f)
Consider the different values of f ( 0) by table:
f = 0 0 < f < 15 f = 15 15 < f <35 f = 35 35 < f
1 + + + + + +
2 + + + + 0
3 + + + + + +
4 + + 0
Consider the following cases: (I) the equation has 6 real roots and 2 complex roots
From the table, the range of possible values of f is 15 < f < 35.
Sub. 15 < f < 35 into (**):|x2 6x 16| = 10 + f or |x2 6x 16| = 10 f (no solution, RHS<0)
x2 6x 16 = 10 + f or x2 6x 16 = 10 f
x2 6x 26 f = 0(1) or x2 6x 6 + f = 0(4)
Q For 15 < f < 35, 1 > 0, 4 < 0
The equation has only 2 real roots,contradicting to our assumption that there are 6 real roots
(II) The equation has 8 real roots. 6 of these roots are distinct and 2 other roots are the same as
the first 6 roots.
If (1) (2), then 26 f = 26 + f f = 0, if (3) (4), then 6 f = 6 + f f = 0
If (1) (3), then 26 f = 6 f no solution, if (2) (4), then 26 +f = 6 + f no solution
If (1) (4), then 26 f = 6 + f f = 10 (contradict with (*), rejected)
If (2) (3), then 26 +f = 6 f f = 10
If f = 0 the equations are x2 6x 26 = 0 and x2 6x 6 = 0, which have only 4 roots,rejected
If f = 10, the equations are x2 6x 36 = 0, x2 6x 16 = 0 and x2 6x 4 = 0, which have 6
distinct real roots, accepted.
Method 2
The following method is provided by Mr. Jimmy Pang from Sai Kung Sung Tsun Catholic School
(Secondary).
First sketch the graph y = ||x2 6x 16| 10|.
From the graph, draw different horizontal lines.
The line y = 10 cuts y = ||x2 6x 16| 10| at 6 different points.
f = 10
G10 In Figure 3, ABC is a triangle, E is the midpoint of BC, F is a

point on AE where AE = 3AF. The extension segment of BF
meets AC at D. Given that the area of ABC is 48 cm2. Let
the area of AFD be g cm2, find the value of g.
From E, draw a line EG // BD which cuts AC at G.
AE = 3AF AF : FE = 1 : 2; let AE = k, FE = 2k
E is the midpoint of BC BE = EC = t A
SABE = SACE = 12 48 cm2 = 24 cm2 (same base, same height) k D

F
AD : DG = AF : FE = 1 : 2 (theorem of equal ratio) G
2k
DG : GC = BE : EC = 1 : 1 (theorem of equal ratio)
AD : DG : GC = 1 : 2 : 2
B t E t C
SAEG : SCEG = 3 : 2 (same height, ratio of base = 3 : 2)
3 72
SAEG = 24 cm2 = cm2
2+3 5
1 1 72 8 8
ADF ~ AGE SADF = SAEG = cm2 = cm2; g =
9 9 5 5 5
GS Let R be the remainder of 5882009 divided by 97. Find the value of R.

Reference: 2008 FIS.4 the remainder of 5882008 divided by 97
5882009 = (976 +6)2009
= (976)2009+2009C1(976)20096++62009 = 97m+62009, where m is an integer.
Note that 253 = 96 = 97 1 1 (mod 97); 235 = 486 = 975 + 1 1 (mod 97);
66 = (253)(235) 1 (mod 97)
62009 = (66)33465 (1)33424(235) 16 (mod 97); d = 16
HKMO 2009 Geometrical Construction Sample Paper solution

1.
First, we find the locus of a point D which is equidistance to a given angle BAC. (Figure 1)
A A
E
1
D D
2
1
B F C
B C
Figure 1 Figure 2
(1) From D, let E and F be the feet of perpendiculars onto AB and BC respectively. (Fig. 2)
(2) Join BD.
BD = BD (common side)
BED = BFD = 90 (By construction)
DE = DF (given that D is equidistance to AB and BC)
BDE BDF (RHS)
DBE = DBF (corr. s 's)
D lies on the angle bisector of ABC.
In ABC, if P is equidistance to ABC, then P must lie on the intersection of the
three angle bisectors. (i.e. the incentre of ABC.)
Q The three angle bisectors must concurrent at one point
We need to find the intersection of any two angle bisectors.
The construction is as follows:
(1) Draw the bisector of ABC. A
(2) Draw the bisector of ACB.
P is the intersection of the two angle T 3
bisectors. 4 4 S
(3) Join AP. 1 2
P
(4) Let R, S, T be the feet of perpendiculars 4
from P onto BC, AC and AB respectively.

B R C
BPR BPT (A.A.S.)
CPR CPS (A.A.S.)
A
PT = PR = PS (Corr. sides, 's)
APT APS (R.H.S.)
PAT = PAS (Corr. s, 's)
AP is the angle bisector of BAC. 5 P
point.
(5) Using P as centre, PR as radius to draw a B R C
circle.
Note that the 3 ex-centres are equidistance from

AB, BC, CA. I shall draw one ex-centre as A
demonstration.
(1) Extend AB and AC to S and T respectively.
(2) Draw the exterior angle bisectors of ABC
and ACB respectively. The two exterior
4
angle bisectors intersect at I.
(3) Let P, Q, R be the feet of perpendiculars
drawn from I onto to BC, AC and AB B P
C
respectively.
3
(4) Join AI. 2 2
R
(5) IBP IBR (AAS); ICP ICQ (AAS) 3 Q
IP = IQ = IR (corr. sides, 's) 1
3
1
I is equidistance from AB, BC and AC. I
IAR IAQ (R.H.S.) S T
IAR = IAQ (corr. sides, 's)
IA is the interior angle bisector of BAC A
Two exterior angle bisectors and one
interior angle bisector of a triangle are
concurrent.
B P
C
Use I as centre, IP as radius to draw a circle. This
circle touches triangle ABC externally. It is called
R
the escribed circle or ex-circle. Q
I
5
2. L PQ L L T PT QT
(Figure 1)
P
Q
P
Q 1 3 1
L S
A B T
4
L 2
2 P1
Figure 1
Figure 2
APB AP1B (S.S.S.)
PBS P1BS (S.A.S.)
PST P1ST (S.A.S.)
PT + QT = P1T + QT
3. P(P )
C
1
D
P 2
P
A 2 O
1
Figure 2
Figure 1 B
First, we locate the centre of the circle. (Figure 2)
(1) Let AB and CD be two non-parallel chords.
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisectors of AB and CD respectively which intersect at O.
(3) Join OP.
C N 5
(4) Draw the perpendicular bisector of OP, 6
K is the mid-point of OP. 1
(5) Using K as centre, KP as radius to draw D 2
6
a circle, which intersects the given circle 4
at M and N. A O 3 P
1
2 K
(6) Join OM, ON, MP, NP. 6
ONP = 90 = OMP ( in semi-circle)

PM, PN are the required tangents. 6
(converse, tangent radius) B M Figure 3

Method 2
(1) From P, draw a line segment cutting the T
circle at R and Q. (Q lies between P and R 6
R.)
4
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of PR, M 3
which intersects PR at O. 2
7
(3) Use O as centre, OP = OR as radius to Q 5
8
draw a semi-circle PTR. O
(4) From Q (the point between PR), draw a 1
line QT perpendicular to PR, cutting the
8
semi-circle at T.
(5) Join PT. N P
(6) Join TR. Figure 4
(7) Use P as centre, PT as radius to draw an
arc, cutting the given circle at M and N.
(8) Join PM, PN.
PTR = 90 ( in semi-circle)
PQT ~ PTR (equiangular)
PQ PT
PT PR
PQPR = PT2
By (7), PQPR = PT2 = PM2 = PN2
PM and PN are the tangents from external point. (converse, intersecting chords theorem)
Geometrical construction
1. In Figure 1, A, B and C are three fixed non-collinear
points. Construct a circle passing through the given
three points.
The 3 perpendicular bisectors of AB, BC and AC are
concurrent at the circumcentre O. It is sufficient to
locate the circumcentre by any two perpendicular
bisectors.
(1) Join AB, AC and BC.
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AB.
M is the mid-point of AB.
(3) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC.
N is the mid-point of AC.
The two perpendicular bisectors intersect at O.
(4) Use O as centre, OA as radius, draw a circle. Figure 1
AOM BOM (S.A.S.)
AON CON (S.A.S.) A
OB = OA = OC (corr. sides, 's) 4
The circle pass through A, B and C. 1 1
Let L be the mid-point of BC. Join OL. P
BOL COL (S.S.S.) 2 M
R
BLO = CLO (corr. s, 's) O N 3
BLO + CLO = 180 (adj. s on st. line)

S Q
BLO = CLO = 90
B
OL is the perpendicular bisector of BC.
The 3 perpendicular bisectors of AB, BC and L 1
AC are concurrent at a point O. C
2. In Figure 2, AB is the base of a triangle ABC, and the

length of BD is the sum of the lengths of BC and CA.
Given that ABC = 60, construct the triangle ABC. Figure 2
(1) Use A as centre, AB as radius to draw an arc, use B
as centre, BA as radius to draw another arc. The D
two arcs intersect at P. ABP is an equilateral 2
triangle. ABP = 60 P
3
(2) With B as centre, BD as radius, draw an arc,
4
cutting BP produced at D. N C
(3) Join AD.
5
(4) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AD which cuts
BD at C. N is the mid point of AD. 601
(5) Join AC. A B
ANC DNC (S.A.S.)
AC = DC (corr. sides, 's) B D
AC + CB = BC + CD
3. In Figure 3, ABC is an acute angle triangle. P1 is a point

on AC. Construct a triangle P1XY such that X is a point on
AB, Y is a point on BC and the perimeter of P1XY is the
least.
(1) Use A as centre, AC as radius to draw an arc.
(2) Use B as centre, BC as radius to draw another arc.
These two arcs intersect at C.
ABC ABC (S.S.S.)
BAC = BAC (corr. s, s)
(3) Use C as centre, CA as radius to draw an arc
(4) Use B as centre, BA as radius to draw another arc.
These two arcs intersect at A.
ABC ABC (S.S.S.)
ACB = ACB (corr. s, s)
(5) Use A as centre, AP1 as radius to draw 1 5
C' P A
an arc, which cuts AC at P.
2
AX = AX (common side)
AP = AP1 (radii) 8
P1
APX AP1X (S.A.S.) X
PX = P1X (corr. sides, s) 8
(6) Use C as centre, CP1 as radius to draw

B Y C
an arc, which cuts CA at P2. 7
CY = CY (common side)
CP1 = CP2 (radii)
P2 6
CP1Y CP2Y (S.A.S.)
P1Y = P2Y (corr. sides, s) 4 3
A'
(7) Join PP2, which cuts AB at X and BC at Y.

(8) Join P1X, YP2.
The position of P and P2 are fixed irrespective the size and the shape of P1XY.
Perimeter of P1XY = PX + XY + YP2
PX + XY + YP2 is the minimum when P, X, Y, P2 are collinear.
P1XY is the required triangle.
Individual Events
SI A 15 I1 R 30 I2 a 16 I3 m 3 I4 m 3
3 9
B 3 S 120 b n 9 n
2 4
C 4 T 11 c 36 p 2 p 9
D 8 U 72 d 42 q 1141 q 8
Group Events
17 3
SG z 540 G1 q 3 G2 A G3 A 5 G4 P
13 8
1
R 6 k 1 B 13 R 4018 R
2
4 5
k 5 w 25 C 46 Q S 320
5
3
xyz 1 p D 30 T 52 3 Q 1
2

SI.1 Let A = 15tan 44tan45tan46, find the value of A.
Similar question 2012 G2.1
1
A = 15 tan 44 o 1 = 15
tan 44 o
n 2008 's
644 4 7444 8
SI.2 Let n be a positive integer and 20082008L 200815 is divisible by A. If the least possible
value of n is B, find the value of B.
The given number is divisible by 15. Therefore it is divisible by 3 and 5.
The last 2 digits of the given number is 15, which is divisible by 15.
n 2008 's
644 4 7444 8
The necessary condition is: 20082008L 2008 must be divisible by 3.
2 + 0 + 0 + 8 = 10 which is not divisible by 3.
The least possible n is 3: 2+0+0+8+2+0+0+8+2+0+0+8 = 30 which is divisible by 3.
SI.3 Given that there are C integers that satisfy the equation |x 2| + |x + 1| = B, find the value of C
|x 2| + |x + 1| = 3
If x < 1, 2 x x 1 = 3 x = 1 (rejected)
If 1 x 2, 2 x + x + 1 = 3 3 = 3, always true 1 x 2
If 2 < x, x 2 + x + 1 = 3 x = 2 (reject)
1 x 2 only
Q x is an integer, x = 1, 0, 1, 2; C = 4
SI.4 In the coordinate plane, the distance from the point (C, 0) to the straight line y = x is D,
find the value of D.
Ax0 + By0 + C
The distance from P(x0, y0) to the straight line Ax + By + C = 0 is .
A2 + B 2
40+0 4
The distance from (4, 0) to x y = 0 is D= = =2 2 = 8;D=8
1 + ( 1)
2
2 2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let a, b, c and d be the distinct roots of the equation x4 15x2 + 56 = 0.

x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
R = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30
I1.2 In Figure 1, AD and BE are straight lines with AB = AC and

AB // ED. If ABC = R and ADE = S, find the value of S.
S = 120
log(1 + F )
I1.3 Let F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2S and T = , find the value of T.
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log(1 + F ) log 2121

T= = = 11
log 2 log 2
I1.4 Let f (x) be a function such that f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) and f (n) 0 hold for all integers n 6.
f (T )
(T 1) f (T 3)
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f (11) 10 9 8 f (8)
U= = = 89 = 72
(11 1) f (11 3) 10 f (8)
Individual Event 2

(
I2.1 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. If a = 3 2 )
2009

+ 16 , find the value of a.
1
0< 3 2 = <1
3+ 2
0< ( 3 2 )
2009
(
< 1 a = 3 2

)
2009

+ 16 = 0 + 16 = 16
I2.2 In the coordinate plane, if the area of the triangle formed by the x-axis, y-axis and the line
3
4
1 3 3
Area = b = 4 =
2 4 2
1 1
I2.3 Given that x = 2b and x 3 3 = c , find the value of c.
x x
1 1 1
x = 3 x 2 2 + 2 = 9 x 2 + 2 = 11
x x x
1 1 1
c = x3 3
= x x 2 + 1 + 2 = 3 (11 + 1) = 36
x x x
I2.4 In Figure 1, = c, = 43, = 59 and = d, find the value of d. A

BAD + BCD = 180 (opp. s cyclic quad.) D
c + d + 43 + 59 = 180
d = 180 43 59 36 = 42 (Q c = 36)
B C
Individual Event 3
4 1
I3.1 Given that = a b . If m = a b, find the value of m.
6+ 2 3+ 2
4 1 4 6 2 1 3 2
=
6+ 2 3+ 2 6+ 2 6 2 3 + 2 3 2
=
(
4 6 2 )

3 2
62 32
(
= 6 2 3 2 )
= 6 3
a = 6, b = 3; m = 6 3 = 3
I3.2 In figure 1, PQR is a right-angled triangle and RSTU is a
rectangle. Let A, B and C be the areas of the corresponding
regions. If A : B = m : 2 and A : C = n : 1, find the value of n.
A : B = 3 : 2, A : C = n : 1 A : B : C = 3n : 2n : 3
Let TS = UR = x, QU = y
PTS ~ TQU ~ PQR (equiangular)
SPTS : STQU : SPQR = A : C : (A + B + C) = 3n : 3 : (5n + 3) Method 2
x2 : y2 : (x + y)2 = 3n : 3 : (5n + 3) Let SR = x, PS = z
y 1 x+ y 5n + 3 Join TR which bisects the area
= (1), = (2) of the rectangle.
x n y 3 A 3 A 3
x 5n + 3 = B =
From (2): +1 = (3) B 2 2
1
y 3 S TPS 3 z 3
5n + 3 = = (4)
Sub. (1) into (3): n +1 = S TSR 1 x 1
3 Q PTS ~ TQU (equiangular)
3n + 3 = 5n + 3 A n z
2
n
( 3n + 3 )
2
= 5n + 3
= =
C 1 x 1
3n + 6 n + 3 = 5n + 3 n = 32 = 9 (by (4))
6 n = 2n n = 9
I3.3 Let x1, x2, x3, x4 be real numbers and x1 x2. If (x1 + x3)(x1 + x4) = (x2 + x3)(x2 + x4) = n 10
and p = (x1 + x3) (x2 + x3) + (x1 + x4) (x2 + x4), find the value of p.
Reference: 2002 HI7, 2006HG6, 2014 HG7
x12 + x1 x3 + x1 x4 + x3 x4 = x22 + x2 x3 + x2 x4 + x3 x4 = 1
x12 x22 + x1 x3 x2 x3 + x1 x4 x2 x4 = 0
(x1 x2)(x1 + x2 + x3 + x4) = 0 x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 = 0 (1)
p = (x1 + x3) (x2 + x3) + (x1 + x4) (x2 + x4)
= (x2 + x3)(x2 + x4) (x1 + x3)(x1 + x4) (by (1), x1 + x3 = (x2 + x4), x2 + x4 = (x1 + x3))
=1+1=2 (given (x1 + x3)(x1 + x4) = (x2 + x3)(x2 + x4) = 1)
I3.4 The total number of students in a school is a multiple of 7 and not less than 1000. Given that
the same remainder 1 will be obtained when the number of students is divided by p + 1, p + 2
and p + 3. Let q be the least of the possible numbers of students in the school, find q.
p + 1 = 3, p + 2 = 4, p + 3 = 5; HCF = 1, LCM = 60
q = 60m + 1, where m is an integer.
Q q 1000 and q = 7k, k is an integer.
60m + 1 = 7k
7k 60m = 1
k = 43, m = 5 satisfies the equation
k = 43 + 60t; 7k 1000 7(43 + 60t) 1000 t 2 Least q = 7(43 + 602) = 1141
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Given that x02 + x0 1 = 0 . If m = x03 + 2 x02 + 2 , find the value of m.
m = x03 + 2 x02 + 2 = x03 + x02 x0 + x02 + x0 1 + 3 = 3
I4.2 In Figure 1, BAC is a right-angled triangle, AB = AC = m cm.
Suppose that the circle with diameter AB intersects the line BC at
D, and the total area of the shaded region is n cm2. Find the value
of n.
AB = AC = 3 cm; ADB = 90 ( in semi-circle)
1 1 1
Shaded area = area of ACD = area of ABC = 3 3 cm2
2 2 2
9
n=
4
log (1)
1
I4.3 Given that p = 4n 2009 , find the value of p.
2
0
1 9
p = 4n 2009 = 4 = 9
2 4
(
I4.4 Let x and y be real numbers satisfying the equation x p + y p = 1 . ) (
2
)2
y
If k = and q is the least possible values of k2, find the value of q.
x3
(x 3)2 + (y 3)2 = 1 (1)
Sub. y = k(x 3) into (1): (x 3)2 + [k(x 3) 3]2 = 1
(x 3)2 + k2(x 3)2 6k(x 3) + 9 = 1
(1 + k2)(x 3)2 6k(x 3) + 8 = 0 (1 + k2)t2 6kt + 8 = 0; where t = x 3
For real values of t: = 4[32k2 8(1 + k2)] 0
k2 8
The least possible value of k2 = q = 8.
Method 2
The circle (x 3)2 + (y 3)2 = 1 intersects with 4
the variable line y = k(x 3) which passes 3.5
through a fixed point (3, 0), where k is the

slope of the line. 3
H
From the graph, the extreme points when the

C B
variable line touches the circle at B and C. 2.5
H(3, 3) is the centre of the circle.

In ABH, ABH = 90 ( in semi-circle)
2
Let HAB = , AH = 3, HB = 1, 1.5
AB = 8 = 2 2 (Pythagoras' theorem)
1
1
tan =
8 0.5
Slope of AB = tan (90 ) = 8

O
Least possible k2 = q = 8
1 2 3 A(3, 0) 4
GS.1 In Figure 1, BD, FC, GC and FE are straight lines.
If z = a + b + c + d + e + f + g, find the value of z.
a + b + g + BHG = 360 (s sum of polygon ABHG)
c + f = CJE (ext. of CFJ)
c + f + e + d +JHD = 360 (s sum of polygon JHDE) H
a + b+ g + BHG + c+f+e+d + JHD = 720 J
a + b + c + d + e + f + g + 180 = 720
z = 540
GS.2 If R is the remainder of 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 divided by 7, find the value of R.
x6 + y6 = (x + y)(x5 x4y + x3y2 x2y3 + xy4 y5) + 2y6
66 + 16 = 7Q1 + 2; 56 + 26 = 7Q2 + 226; 46 + 36 = 7Q3 + 236
2 + 226 + 236 = 2(1 + 64 + 729) = 1588 = 7226 + 6; R = 6
Method 2 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 16 + 26 + 36 +(3)6 + (2)6 + (1)6 mod 7
2(16 + 26 + 36) 2(1 + 64 + 729) mod 7
2(1 + 1 + 1) mod 7 6 mod 7
k
GS.3 If 14! is divisible by 6 , where k is an integer, find the largest possible value of k.
We count the number of factors of 3 in 14!. They are 3, 6, 9, 12. So there are 5 factors of 3.
k=5
1 1 1 7
GS.4 Let x, y and z be real numbers that satisfy x + = 4, y + = 1 and z + = .
y z x 3
Find the value of xyz. (Reference 2010 FG2.2)
Method 1 Method 2
1 4y 1
x + y = 4 LL (1)
1
From (1), x = 4 =
y y

1 y
= (4) y + = 1LL (2)
1
x 4y 1 z

y 7
z + x = 3 LL (3)
1 7
Sub. (4) into (3): z + =
4y 1 3
7 y
z= (5) (1)(2): xy + 1 +
x
+
1
=4
3 4y 1 z yz
1 1 1
From (2): = 1 y x y + + =3
z
z yz
1
z= (6) Sub. (2) into the eqt.: x +
x
=3
1 y
xyz
1 7 y
(5) = (6): =
= 3 LL (4 )
x
1 y 3 4y 1 Let a = xyz, then x +
a
1 28 y 7 3 y
= (2)(3): y + = y + = LL (5)
7 y 4 7 1 4
1 y 3(4 y 1)
3 a 3 3 a 3
3(4y 1) = (1 y)(25y 7)
(1)(3): z (4 ) + = z 4 + = LL (6)
z 25 1 25
12y 3 = 25y2 7 + 32y a 3 a 3
25y2 20y + 4 = 0
(4)(5)(6): a 1 + + 4 + =
1 7 1 1 100
(5y 2)2 = 0
2 a 3 a a 3
y=
5
(a + 1)(7a + 3)(4a + 1) = 100
2 1 5 3a 2 3
Sub. y = into (6): z = 2 = which reduces to 28a3 53a2 + 22a + 3 = 0
5 1 5 3
2 5 3 (a 1)2(28a + 3) = 0
Sub. y = into (1): x+ =4x= a = 1
5 2 2
2 5 3
xyz = =1
5 3 2
Method 3 (1)(2)(3) (1) (2) (3):
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 28 22 1
xyz + x + y + z + + + + x + y + z + + + = xyz + =2
x y z xyz x y z 3 3 xyz
xyz = 1
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given some triangles with side lengths a cm, 2 cm and b cm, where a and b are integers and
q=3
4 3x
G1.2 Given that the equation x = has k distinct real root(s), find the value of k.
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4
x y 7
G1.3 Given that x and y are non-zero real numbers satisfying the equations = and
y x 12
x y 7
xy 12
144 144
x x
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
xy 12
Q x y = 7 and x + y = w
w+7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w+7 w7
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
G1.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x + y 2 1 = 0 .
2
Reference: 2005 FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2011 FI4.3, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
1
2
1 1 3
x= , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 2
5
G2.1 Given tan = , where 180 270. If A = cos + sin , find the value of A.
12
12 5
cos = , sin =
13 13
12 5 17
A = =
13 13 13
G2.2 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x.

If B = 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + L , find the value of B.

Reference: 2007 FG2.2 x 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3
Let y = 10 + 10 + 10 + L
y2 = 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + L = 10 + y
y2 y 10 = 0
1 + 41 1 41
y= or (rejected)
2 2
7 1 + 41
6 < 41 < 7 < <4
2 2
13.5 < 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + L < 14 ; B = 13
G2.3 Let a b = ab + 10. If C = (12) 3, find the value of C.

12 = 2 + 10 = 12; C = 123 = 36 + 10 = 46
G2.4 In the coordinate plane, the area of the region bounded by the following lines is D square
L1: y 2 = 0
L2: y + 2 = 0
L3: 4x + 7y 10 = 0
L4: 4x + 7y + 20 = 0
D(-8.5, 2) y=2 C(-1, 2)

2
4x + 7y + 20 = 0 4x + 7y - 10 = 0
-5 O 5
-2
y = -2
A(-1.5, -2) B(6, -2)
B(6, 2), C(1, 2), C(8.5, 2).
The area D = |6 (1.5)||2 (2)| = 7.54 = 30
Group Event 3
2008 80 + 2009 130 + 2010 180
If A = , find the value of A.
2008 15 + 2009 25 + 2010 35
20083 + 40153
Reference: 2008 FGS.4 Calculate the value of .
2007 3 + 40153
Let a = 2009, b = 130, c = 25
2008 80 + 2009 130 + 2010 180 (a 1)(b 50 ) + ab + (a + 1)(b + 50 )
=
2008 15 + 2009 25 + 2010 35 (a 1)(c 10) + ac + (a + 1)(c + 10)
ab b 50a + 50 + ab + ab + b + 50a + 50
=
ac c 10a + 10 + ac + ac + c + 10a + 10
3ab + 100 3 2009 130 + 100 783610
= = = = 5+ d
3ac + 20 3 2009 25 + 20 150695
where 0 < d < 1; A = 5
G3.2 There are R zeros at the end of 99
1239 99
K 12 K 39 + 1 99
12K 39 , find the value of R.
2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's

99
12 K 39 99 12 K 39 + 1 99
12 K 39 = 1 0{ K0 1 1 0{ K0 1 + 2 0{
K0 1
2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's 2009 of 0 's 2009 of 0's 2009 of 0's
2009
= (10 1) (102009 1) + 2102009 1
= 104018 2102009 + 1 + 2102009 1 = 104018
R = 4018
G3.3 In Figure 1, a square of side length Q cm is inscribed in a
semi-circle of radius 2 cm. Find the value of Q.
2
Q 2
Q2 + = 4 (Pythagoras Theorem) Q
2
2
5Q = 16
4 4 5
Q= =
5 5
G3.4 In Figure 2, the sector OAB has radius 4 cm and AOB is a
right angle. Let the semi-circle with diameter OB be centred
at I with IJ // OA, and IJ intersects the semi-circle at K. If
the area of the shaded region is T cm2, find the value of T.
(Take = 3)
OI = 2 cm, OJ = 4 cm
OI 1
cos IOJ = =
OJ 2
IOJ = 60
SBIJ = Ssector OBJ SOIJ
1 1
= ( 4 2 2 4 sin 60o )cm2
2 3 2
8
= ( 2 3 ) cm2
3
Shaded area = SBIJ SBIK
8 1
= 2 3 2 2 cm2
3 4
5
= 2 3 cm2
3
T =5 2 3
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let P be a real number. If 3 2 P + 1 2 P = 2 , find the value of P.
( 3 2P ) = (2
2
1 2P )2
3 2P = 4 4 1 2P + 1 2P
4 1 2P = 2
4(1 2P) = 1
3
P=
8
G4.2 In Figure 1, let AB, AC and BC be the diameters of the
corresponding three semi-circles. If AC = BC = 1 cm
and the area of the shaded region is R cm2. Find the
value of R.
Reference: 1994 HI9
AB = 2
Shaded area = R cm2 = Scircle with diameter AC 2 Ssegment AC
2 2
1 1 2 1 2 1
R = 1 =
2 2 2 2 2

G4.3 In Figure 2, AC, AD, BD, BE and CF are straight

lines. If A +B +C +D = 140 and a+b + c = S,
find the value of S.
CFD = A + C (ext. of )
AEB = B + D (ext. of )
a = A + AEB = A + B + D (ext. of )
c = D + CFD = D + A + C (ext. of )
b + A + D = 180 (s sum of )
a + b + c = A + B + D + 180 (A + D)
+ D + A + C
= A + B + C + D + 180
S = a + b + c = 140 +180 = 320
G4.4 Let Q = log 2+ 22 1
(2 )
2 2 1 , find the value of Q.
(
log 2 3 )
Q=
(
log 2 + 3 )
log 2 3 ( )
log(2 + 3 ) ((22 33 ))
=
=
(
log 2 3 )
1
log
2 3
(
log 2 3 )
=
log 2 3 (
= 1
)
Method 2 Q = log 2+ 3
(2 3 ) ((22 ++ 33 ))
1
= log 2+ 3
( )
2+ 3
= log 2+ 3
(2 + 3 ) = 1
1
Answers: (2007-08 HKMO Heat Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 30 December 2015
12
1 1.8 2 96 3 64 4 5 300
07-08 61
Individual 2007
6 27 7 3 8 9 2 10 3
1004
8 1
1 1 2 34891 3 4 48 5
07-08 9 2
Group 25 4 41
6 1 7 8 3 9 6 10
12 5
Individual Events
I1 In Figure 1, ABC is a triangle, AB = 13 cm, BC = 14 cm and A
AC = 15 cm. D is a point on AC such that BD AC. If CD is longer
than AD by X cm, find the value of X. D
X = CD AD = BC cos C AB cos A
15 2 + 14 2 132 15 2 + 132 14 2 14 2 132
X = 14 13 = 2
2 15 14 2 15 13 30 C B
27 9
X= =
15 5
Method 2
BD2 = 142 CD2 = 132 AD2
142 132 = CD2 AD2
(14 + 13)(14 13) = (CD + AD)(CD AD)
27 9
27 = 15(CD AD) X = =
15 5
I2 Given that a trapezium PQRS with dimensions PQ = 6 cm, QR = 15 cm, RS = 8 cm and

SP = 25 cm, also QR // PS. If the area of PQRS is Y cm2, find the value of Y.
Let the height of the trapezium be h cm (= QW). Q 15 cm
R
From Q, draw QT // RS, which intersect PS at T. 6 cm 8 cm
h cm 8 cm
QRST is a //-gram (2 pairs of //-lines) W
TS = 15 cm, QT = 8 cm (opp. sides, //-gram) P 10 cm T 15 cm S
PT = (25 15) cm = 10 cm
QP2 + QT2 = PT2
PQT = 90 (Converse, Pyth. Theorem)
1 1
6 8 = area of PQT = 10 h , h = 4.8
2 2
15 + 25
Area of the trapezium = Y = 4.8 = 96
2
1 1 1
I3 Given that x0 and y0 are positive integers satisfying the equation + = . If 35 < y0 < 50
x y 15
and x0 + y0 = z0, find the value of z0.
Reference: 2009 HG3
15(x + y) = xy
xy 15xy 15y + 225 = 225
(x 15)(y 15) = 225
(x 15, y 15) = (1, 225), (3, 75), (5, 45), (9, 25), (15, 15), (25, 9), (45, 5), (75, 3), (225, 1)
Q 35 < y0 < 50, y0 15 = 25, x0 15 = 9
y0 = 40 and x0 = 24; z0 = 24 + 40 = 64
a 1 b 3 c 4 ac
I4 Let a, b, c and d be real numbers. If = , = , = and 2 = e, find the value
b 2 c 2 d 5 b +d2
of e.
Method 1
a b 1 3 4a a b c 1 3 4 5a
b = 2a; = c = ; = d=
b c 2 2 3 b c d 2 2 5 3
4a 4
a
ac 3 4 9 12
e= 2 = = 3 = =
b +d 2 2
25 3 61 61
(2a )2 + 5a 4 + 9
3
Method 2 a : b = 1 : 2, b : c = 3 : 2
a:b:c
1:2
3:2
3:6:4
a:b:c:d=3:6:4:5
Let a = 3k, b = 6k, c = 4k, d = 5k
e= 2
ac
=
(3k )(4k ) = 12
b +d 2
(6k )2 + (5k )2 61
I5 In Figure 2, the large rectangle is formed by eight identical small
rectangles. Given that the length of the shorter side of the large
rectangle is 40 cm and the area of the small rectangle is A cm2, 40 cm
find the value of A.

Let the length of a small rectangle be y cm;
the width of a small rectangle be x cm. y y
x x x
Then x + y = 40, y = 3x
y x
x = 10, y = 30
x y y
y
A = xy = 300 y
x
x y x x
I6 In Figure 3, ABC is an equilateral triangle. It is formed by A

several identical equilateral triangles. If there are altogether N
equilateral triangles in the figure, find the value of N.
Number of equilateral triangles of side 1 is 16.
Total number of equilateral triangles is 27. B C
4 5 3
I7 Let r be the larger real root of the equation + = . Find the value of r.
y +1 y 5 2
8(y 5) + 10(y + 1) = 3(y2 4y 5)
3y2 + 6y 45 = 0
y2 + 2y 15 = 0
(y + 5)(y 3) = 0
y = 5 or 3; r = 3
2007 2007
I8 Let x be a rational number and w = x + + x . Find the smallest possible value of w.
2008 2008
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2011 FGS.1, 2012 FG2.3
Method 1
2007 2007 2007 2007
If x < , w = x x+ = 2x, w = 2x >
2008 2008 2008 1004
2007 2007 2007 2007 2007 2007
If x< ,w=x+ x+ = , w =
2008 2008 2008 2008 1004 1004
2007 2007 2007 2007
If x, w = x + +x = 2x, w = 2x
2008 2008 2008 1004
2007
The smallest possible value of w is .
1004
2007 2007 2007 2007 2007
w = x+ + x x+ + x =
2008 2008 2008 2008 1004
I9 Let m and n be a positive integers. Given that the number 2 appears m times and the number 4
(( )) (( ))
2 4
2 N 4 N
appears n times in the expansion (2 ) = (4 )
2 4 m
. If k = , find the value of k.
n
2 (2 ) = 4 (4 )
m 1 n 1
2 (2 ) = 2 2(2 )
m 1 2 n 2
2m1 = 22n1 m = 2n
k=2
I10 Find the value of log2(sin2 45) + log2(cos2 60) + log2(tan2 45).
1 1
log 2 + log 2 + log 2 1 = 1 2 + 0 = 3
2 4
Group Events
G1 Given that the decimal part of 5 + 11 is A and the decimal part of 5 11 is B.
Let C = A + B, find the value of C.
3 < 11 < 4; 5 + 11 = 5 + 3 + A = 8 + A
5 11 = 5 (3 + A) = 2 A = 1 + (1 A)
B = 1 A; A + B = 1
C=1
G2 A total number of x candies, x is a positive integer, can be evenly distributed to 851 people as
well as 943 people. Find the least possible value of x.
851 = 2337; 943 = 2341
x = 2337m = 2341n, where m, n are positive integers.
37m = 41n
Q 37, 41 are relatively prime, the minimum m = 41
The least possible value of x = 233741 = 85141 = 34891
G3 In Figure 1, ABCD is a tetrahedron with side length of 2 cm. If the D

volume of the tetrahedron is R cm3, find the value of R.
Let M be the mid point of BC. (BM = MC = 1 cm)
C
ABM ACM (SSS)
AM = 3 cm (Pythagoras Theorem)
A
2 3
O is the centriod of ABC. AO = cm
3
8 B
DO = height of the tetrahedron = AD 2 AO 2 = cm
3 D
1 1 8
Volume = R cm3 = 2 2 sin 60o cm3
3 2 3 C
1
R= 8
3 A O M
8
R=
9 B
G4 Given that x is a positive integer and x < 60. If x has exactly 10 positive factors, find the value
of x.
Method 1
Note that except for the perfect square numbers (say 25), all positive integers have even
numbers of factors. For a number x < 60 which has 10 positive factors, x will be divisible by
as many numbers < 8 as possible. One possible choice would be 48. The positive factors are 1,
2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24 and 48.
Method 2 Express N as unique prime factorization: p1r1 p 2 r2 L p n rn , then the number of
factors is (1 + r1)(1 + r2) (1 + rn) = 10 = 25 n = 2, 1 + r1 = 2, 1 + r2 = 5 r1 = 1, r2 = 4
For prime numbers 2, 3, 5, , 243 = 48 < 60, other combinations will exceed 60.
3
G5 Given that 90 < < 180 and sin = . If A = cos(180 ), find the value of A.
2
1
= 120, A = cos 60 =
2
1
G6 Let x be a positive real number. Find the minimum value of x 2008 x 1004 + 1004
.
x
Let t = x1004, then t2 = x2008
1 1 2 t2 1
x 2008
x + 1004 = t t + = t 1
1004 2
+1
x t t
( )
1
= t 2 1 1 + 1 =
( )
t 2 1 (t 1)
+ 1=
(t 1)2 (t + 1) + 1
t t t
Clearly t = x1004 > 0, (t 1)2(t + 1) 0,

(t 1)2 (t + 1) + 1 0 + 1 = 1, equality holds when t = 1.
t
1
When x = 1, the minimum value of x 2008 x 1004 + 1004
is 1.
x
1
3
1
x + 2008 x = 5
3 3
G7 Let x and y be real numbers satisfying 3
. If z = x + y, find the
7 7
y 4 + 2008 y 4 = 5

value of z.
1 7
Let a = x , b = y . Add up the two equations: a3 + b3 + 2008(a + b) = 0
3 4
2 2
(a + b)(a ab + b ) + 2008(a + b) = 0
(a + b)(a2 ab + b2 + 2008) = 0
a + b = 0 or a2 ab + b2 + 2008 = 0
2
b b2
But a ab + b + 2008 = a + + 2008 2008 0
2 2
2 4
1 7 25
a + b = x + y = 0; z = x + y =
3 4 12
G8 Let R be the remainder of 135791113151719 divided by 4. Find the value of R.
Note that if N and m are positive integers, 0 m 99 and x = 100N + m, then the remainder
when x divided by 4 is the same as that when m is divided by 4.
Product =1(41)(4+1)(421)(42+1)(431)(43+1)(441)(44+1)(451)
=1(4+1)(42+1)(43+1)(44+1)(41)(421)(431) (441)(451)
= (4a + 1)(4b 1), where a, and b are integers.
= 16ab + 4(b a) 1, the remainder is 3.
Method 2 135791113151719 1(1)1(1)1(1)1(1)1(1) 3 mod 4
G9 Given that k, x1 and x2 are positive integers with x1 < x2. Let A, B and C be three points on the
curve y = kx2, with x-coordinates being x1, x1 and x2 respectively. If the area of ABC is 15
square units, find the sum of all possible values of k.
y C(x2,kx2^2)
Q k > 0, the parabola opens upwards with following shape:
1
Area of ABC = AB height
2
1
(x1 + x1 ) (kx 22 kx12 ) = 15
2
kx1(x22 x12) = 15
Possible k = 1, 3, 5, 15
When k = 1, x1 = 1, x2 = 4
When k = 3, no solution
When k = 5, x1 = 1, x2 = 2 A(-x1,kx1^2) B(x1,kx1^2) x
Sum of all possible values of k = 1 + 5 = 6
G10 In Figure 2, ABCD is rectangular piece of paper with AB = 4 cm
A E D
and BC = 5 cm. Fold the paper by putting point C onto A to create
a crease EF. If EF = r cm, find the value of r.
Suppose D will be folded to a position D', CDE AD'E
Let O be the mid point of AC. AE = CE, OE = OE, AO = OC,
AOE COE SSS
DO = OE, ODE = OFB, OED = OFB; ODE OFB
B F C
CF = BC BF = AD DE = AE
AECF is a rhombus (4 sides equal)
In ABC, AC2 = 42 + 52 (Pythagoras' Theorem) D'
41 A=C E D
AC = 41 ; AO = (diagonal of a rhombus)
2
Let BF = DE = t
4 O
AE = 5 t = EC = CF = AF
In ABF, 42 + t2 = (5 t)2 = 25 10t + t2 (Pythagoras' Theorem)
9 9 41 C
t = , AF = 5 = B t F 5 -t
10 10 10
In AOF, OF2 = AF2 AO2 (Pythagoras' Theorem)
OF = (4.1)2
41 4 41
=
4 5
41
Method 2 As before, AECF is a rhombus. AC and EF bisect each other at O. AO = .
2
EAO = ACB (alt. s AD // BC)
AOE = 90 = ABC (property of rhombus)
tan EAO = tan ACB
EO 4
=
41 5
2
2 41
EO =
5
4 41
EF = 2EO =
5
Individual Events
SI k 2 I1 A 15 I2 P 3 I3 A 2 I4 P 4 IS a 2
d 1 B 3 Q 4 B 3 Q 300 b 2
a 6 C 4 R 10 C 45 R 2 c 3
50
t D 8 S 112.5 D 7 S 2 3 d 35
11
Group Events
1 5
SG W G1 m 8 G2 z 540 G3 k 33 G4 m 13 GS value 1
2
1
T 29 h 13 R 6 v 6 n 6 x4 4036079
x4
99
S 106 x+y+z 11 k 5 value 106 abc+def 72 cot
20
6023
k 4 Number 72 xyz 1 r 27405 p+q 2 value
6022
SI.1 Let k = 7 13 7 13 , find the value of k.
2
k = 7 13 7 13
2

2
k = 7 13 2 7 2 13 7 13
= 14 2 36 = 2
SI.2 In Figure 1, the straight line passes though the point (k, 3) and
makes an angle 45 with the x-axis. If the equation of is
x + by + c = 0 and d = |1 + b + c|, find the value of d.
y 3
: tan 45
x2
y3=x2
x y + 1 = 0, b = 1, c = 1
d = |1 1 + 1| = 1
SI.3 If x d is a factor of x3 6x2 +11x + a, find the value of a.
f(x) = x3 6x2 +11x + a
f(1) = 1 6 +11 + a = 0
a = 6
a
SI.4 If cos x + sin x = and t = tan x + cot x, find the value of t.
5
6
cos x + sin x =
5
36
(cos x + sin x)2 =
25
36
1 + 2 sin x cos x =
25
11 11
2 sin x cos x = sin x cos x =
25 50
d = tan x + cot x
sin x cos x
=
cos x sin x
sin 2 x cos 2 x
=
sin x cos x
1 50
=
sin x cos x 11
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let A = 15tan 44tan45tan46, find the value of A.
Similar question: 2012 FG2.1
1
A 15 tan 44 1 = 15
tan 44

n 2008 's

I1.2 Let n be a positive integer and 20082008 200815 is divisible by A.
If the least possible value of n is B, find the value of B.
Reference: 2010 HG2

n 2008 's

The necessary condition is: 20082008 2008 must be divisible by 3.
I1.3 Given that there are C integers that satisfy the equation |x 2| + |x + 1| = B, find the value of C
|x 2| + |x + 1| = 3
If x < 1, 2 x x 1 = 3 x = 1 (rejected)
If 2 < x, x 2 + x + 1 = 3 x = 2 (reject)
1 x 2 only
x is an integer, x = 1, 0, 1, 2; C = 4
I1.4 In the coordinate plane, the distance from the point (C, 0) to the straight line y = x is D,
Ax0 By 0 C
A2 B 2
400 4
The distance from (4, 0) to x y = 0 is D= 2 2 8;D=8
12 1
2
2
2
Method 2
4
y=x
D = 4 sin 45 =
2 (-4, 0)
16
-5
45 O
D= =8
2
D
-2
Individual Event 2
1
1
I2.1 Given that P = 3 6 3 , find the value of P.

162
1
6 162 3
P = 3 =3 = 27 = 3
162 6
I2.2 Let a, b and c be real numbers with ratios b : (a + c) = 1 : 2 and a : (b + c) = 1 : P.

abc
If Q , find the value of Q.
a
2b = a + c (1), 3a = b + c (2)
(1) (2): 2b 3a = a b 3b = 4a a : b = 3 : 4
Let a = 3k, b = 4k, sub. into (1): 2(4k) = 3k + c c = 5k
a b c 3k 4k 5k
Q = =4
a 3k
Q Q
I2.3 Let R = 3 2 3 2 . Find the value of R.

4 4
R = 3 2 3 2

= 3 2
2
3 2
2
= 3 2 6 2 3 2 6 2 = 10
I2.4 Let S = (x R)2 + (x + 5)2, where x is a real number. Find the minimum value of S.
S = (x 10)2 + (x + 5)2
= x2 20x + 100 + x2 + 10x + 25
= 2x2 10x + 125
= 2(x2 5x) + 125
= 2(x 2.5)2 + 125 22.52
= 2(x 2.5)2 + 112.5 112.5
The minimum value of S is 112.5.
Method 2
S = (10 x)2 + (x + 5)2
Let a = 10 x, b = x + 5
a + b = 15, which is a constant
a2 + b2 reaches its minimum when a = b = 7.5
Minimum S = 7.52 + 7.52 = 112.5
Individual Event 3
1 3
I3.1 Given that satisfies the equation x2 + px + q = 0, where p and q are rational numbers.
2
If A = |p| + 2|q|, find the value of A.
For an equation with rational coefficients, conjugate roots occur in pairs.
1 3
That is, the other root is .
2
1 3 1 3
+ = p p = 1
2 2
1 3 1 3 1
q q =
2 2 2
1
A = |1| + 2 = 2
2
I3.2 Two bags U1 and U2 contain identical red and white balls. U1 contains A red balls and 2 white
balls. U2 contains 2 red balls and B white balls. Take two balls out of each bag. If the
1
probability of all four balls are red is , find the value of B.
60
U1 contains 2 red and 2 white, total 4 balls. U2 contains 2 red and B white, total 2 + B balls.
2 1 2 1 1
P(all 4 are red) =
4 3 2 B 1 B 60
20 = (2 + B)(1 + B)
B2 + 3B 18 = 0
(B 3)(B + 6) = 0
B=3
I3.3 Figure 1 is formed by three identical circles touching one
another, the radius of each circle is B cm. If the perimeter of
the shaded region is C cm, find the value of C. (Take = 3)
Let the centres of the circles be P,
Q and R respectively.
P
Then PQ = 2B = 6 = QR = PR
PQR is an equilateral . N
P = Q = R = 60 M
Perimeter = 323 3 MN
60 Q L R
= 18 323
360
= 15 = 45
I3.4 Let D be the integer closest to C , find the value of D.

6 = 36 < 45 < 49 = 7 6 < D < 7
6.52 = 42.25 < 45 6.5 < D < 7, D = 7
Method 2
6 = 36 < 45 < 49 = 7 6 < D < 7
|45 36| = 9, |45 49| = 4
45 is closer to 49
45 is closer to 7
D=7
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Given that x and y are real numbers such that |x| + x + y = 10 and |y| + x y = 10. If P = x + y,
2 x y 10
If x 0, y 0; , solving give x = 10, y = 10 (reject)
x 10
2 x y 10
If x 0, y < 0, , solving give x = 6, y = 2
x 2 y 10
y 10
If x < 0, y 0, , reject
x 10
y 10
If x < 0, y < 0; , solving give x = 30, y = 10 (reject)
x 2 y 10
x = 6, y = 2
P=x+y=62=4
I4.2 In Figure 1, the shaded area is formed by two concentric circles
and has area 96 cm2. If the two radii differ by 2P cm and the
large circle has area Q cm2, find the value of Q. (Take = 3)
Let the radii of the large and small circles be R and r respectively.
(R2 r2) = 96 and R r = 8 (1)
(R + r)(R r) = 96 (R + r)8 = 96 R + r = 12 (2)
(2) + (1): 2R = 20 R = 10 Q = (10)2 = 300
I4.3 Let R be the largest integer such that RQ < 5200, find the value of R.
Reference: 1996 HI4, 1999 FG5.3
R300 < 5200 R3 < 25, the largest integer is 2.
I4.4 In Figure 2, there are a square ABCD with side length (R 1) cm
and an equilateral triangle AEF. (E and F are points on BC and
CD respectively). If the area of AEF is (S 3) cm2, find the
value of S.
Reference: 1995 HG7
Let AF = x cm = FE = AE
FAE = 60, DAF = BAE = 15
AD = 1 = AF cos 15 = x cos 15 x = sec 15
1 1 1 3 3 1 3 1 3 2
S 3 = x2 sin 60 = = = = =2 3 3; S =2 3
2 2
2 cos 15 2 2 1 cos 30
2 1 2 3 2 2 3
Method 2
Let CE = CF = x cm
D 1 A
Then BE = DF = (1 x) cm
By Pythagoras theorem,
AF = FE 1 + (1 x)2 = x2 + x2
F
2 2x + x2 = 2x2 x 1
x2 + 2x 2 = 0 x2 = 2 2x
x = 1 3
C B
Area of AFE = Area of square area of CEF 2 area of ADF x E
x2 1 1 x x2 2 2x
= 1 2 =x =x = 2x 1
2 2 2 2

= 2 1 3 1= 2 3 3
S 3 =2 3 3; S =2 3
Individual Spare
1 1 1
IS.1 If all the positive factors of 28 are d1, d2, , dn and a = , find the value of a.
d1 d 2 dn
1 1 1 1 1
Positive factors of 28 are 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 28. a = 1 = 2
2 4 7 14 28
1 7
IS.2 Given that x is a negative real number that satisfy = a. If b =x+ , find the value of b
1 2
x
x2
1 x2
=2 2 x + 2 = 2x2 + 4x + 2 2x2 + 3x = 0 x = 1.5 or 0 (reject)
1 xx 2 1
x
x2
b = 1.5 + 3.5 = 2
IS.3 Let and be the two roots of the equation x2 + cx + b = 0, where c < 0 and = 1. Find
the value of c.
= b = 2; ( )2 = 1 ( + )2 4 = 1 (c)2 42 = 1, c = 3
IS.4 Let d be the remainder of (196c)2008 divided by 97. Find the value of d.
[196(3)]2008 = 5882008 = (976 +6)2008
Note that 253 = 96 = 97 1 1 (mod 97); 235 = 486 = 975 + 1 1 (mod 97);
66 = (253)(235) 1 (mod 97)
62008 = (66)33464 (1)3341296 9713 + 35 35 (mod 97)
d = 35
SG.1 In Figure 1, AEFD is a unit square. The ratio of the length of A E B
the rectangle ABCD to its width is equal to the ratio of the

length of the rectangle BCFE to its width. If the length of AB
is W units, find the value of W.
W 1

1 W 1 D
F
C
1 5
W2 W 1 = 0 W =
2
SG.2 On the coordinate plane, there are T points (x, y), where x, y are integers, satisfying x2+y2 < 10,
find the value of T. (Reference: 2002 FI4.3)
T = number of integral points inside the circle x2 + y2 =10.
x^2+y^2=10
We first count the number of integral points in the first 2
quadrant:
x = 1; y = 1, 2
x = 2; y = 1, 2 O
Next, the number of integral points on the x-axis and y-axis

= 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1 = 13 -2
T = 44 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1
= 29
SG.3 Let P and P + 2 be both prime numbers satisfying P(P + 2) 2007. If S represents the sum of
such possible values of P, find the value of S.
P2 + 2P 2007 0
(P + 1)2 2008 0
(P + 1 + 2008 )(P + 1 2008 ) 0
(P + 1 + 2 502 )(P + 1 2 502 ) 0
1 2 502 P 1 + 2 502
P is a prime 0 < P 1 + 2 502
22 = 484 < 502 < 529 = 23
43 < 1 + 2 502 < 45
(P, P + 2) = (3, 5), (5, 7), (11, 13), (17, 19), (29, 31), (41, 43)
S = 3 + 5 + 11 + 17 + 29 + 41 = 106
SG.4 It is known that log10(20072006 20062007) = a10k, where 1 a < 10 and k is an integer. Find
the value of k.
2006 log 2007 + 2007 log 2006 = 2006(log 2007 + log 2006) + log 2006
> 2006(log 2006 + log 2006) + log 2006
= 4013 log 2006
= 4013 log(2.006103)
= 4013 (log 2.006 + 3)
> 4013 log 2 + 40133 = 4013(log 2 + 3)
> 4013(0.3 + 3) = 13242.9 = 1.32429104
k=4
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that there are three points on the coordinate P(12, 0)
plane: O(0, 0), A(12, 2) and B(0, 8). A reflection of Q(12, 10)
10
OAB along the straight line y = 6 creates PQR. If B(0, 8)

the overlapped area of OAB and PQR is m square
M(4, 6)
5
units, find the value of m.
P(12, 0), Q (12, 10), R(0, 4). R(0, 4)
Suppose AB intersects QR at M(x, 6). A(12, 2)

O 10
Slope of MR = slope of QR
6 4 10 4
x = 4; M(4, 6)
x 12
1
Area of the overlap BMR = (8 4)4 = 8; m = 8
2
G1.2 In Figure 1, ABCD is a parallelogram with BA = 3 cm,

BC = 4 cm and BD = 37 cm. If AC = h cm, find the
value of h.
CD = BA = 3 cm (opp. sides, //-gram)
2
4 2 3 2 37 1
In BCD, cos C = =
2 3 4 2
1
cos B = cos(180 C) = cos C = (int. s AB // DC)
2
In ABC, AC = 32 4 2 2 3 4 cos B = 13 ; h = 13
Method 2 http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Trigonometry/Apollonius_Theorem.pdf
By Apollonius theorem,
2BA2 + 2BC2 = AC2 + BD2
232 + 242 = h2 + 37
h = 13
151
G1.3 Given that x, y and z are positive integers and the fraction can be written in the form of
44
1
3 . Find the value of x + y + z.
1
x
1
y
z
151 19 1 1 1 1
=3 =3 =3 =3 =3
44 44 44
2 196 1 1
19 2 2
19
6
3 16
x = 2, y = 3, z = 6; x + y + z = 11
G1.4 When 491 is divided by a two-digit integer, the remainder is 59. Find this two-digit integer.
Let the number be 10x + y, where 0 < x 9, 0 y 9.
491 = (10x + y)Q + 59; 59 < 10x + y
491 59 = 432 = (10x + y)Q; 432 = 726; the number is 72.
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, BD, FC, GC and FE are straight lines.
c + f + e + d + JHD = 360 (s sum of polygon JHDE) H
a + b+ g + BHG + c+f+e+d + JHD = 720 J
a + b + c + d + e + f + g + 180 = 720
z = 540
G2.2 If R is the remainder of 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 divided by 7, find the value of R.
66 + 16 = 7Q1 + 2; 56 + 26 = 7Q2 + 226; 46 + 36 = 7Q3 + 236
2 + 226 + 236 = 2(1 + 64 + 729) = 1588 = 7226 + 6; R = 6
Method 2 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 16 + 26 + 36 +(3)6 + (2)6 + (1)6 mod 7
2(16 + 26 + 36) 2(1 + 64 + 729) mod 7
2(1 + 1 + 1) mod 7 6 mod 7
k
G2.3 If 14! is divisible by 6 , where k is an integer, find the largest possible value of k.
k=5
1 1 1 7
G2.4 Let x, y and z be real numbers that satisfy x + = 4, y + = 1 and z + = .
y z x 3
Method 1 Method 2
1 4y 1
x y 4 1
From (1), x = 4 = 1
y y

1 y
(4)
y 1 2
1
x 4y 1 z

y 7
z x 3 3
1 7
Sub. (4) into (3): z +
4y 1 3
7 y
z= (5) (1)(2): xy 1
x

1
4
3 4y 1 z yz
1 1 1
From (2): = 1 y x y 3
z
z yz
1
z= (6) Sub. (2) into the eqt.: x
x
3
1 y
xyz
1 7 y
(5) = (6): = Let a = xyz, then x
x
3 4
1 y 3 4y 1
a
1 28 y 7 3 y
= (2)(3): y y 5
7 y 4 7 1 4
1 y 34 y 1

3 a 3 3 a 3
3(4y 1) = (1 y)(25y 7)
(1)(3): z 4 z 4 6
z 25 1 25
12y 3 = 25y2 7 + 32y a 3 a 3
25y2 20y + 4 = 0
(4)(5)(6): a 1 4
1 7 1 1 100
2
(5y 2)2 = 0 y = a 3 a a 3
5
2 1 5 a 17a 34a 1 100
Sub. y = into (6): z = = 3a 2 3
5 1 25 3
2 5 3
which reduces to 28a3 53a2 + 22a + 3 = 0
Sub. y = into (1): x+ =4x = (a 1)2(28a + 3) = 0
5 2 2
2 5 3 a = 1
xyz = = 1
5 3 2
Method 3 (1)(2)(3) (1) (2) (3):
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 28 22 1
xyz x y z x y z xyz 2
xyz = 1
Group Event 3
G3.1 In Figure 1, PQRS is a cyclic quadrilateral, where S is on the
straight line RT and TP is tangent to the circle. If RS = 8 cm,
RT = 11 cm and TP = k cm, find the value of k.
Join PR. SPT = PRS ( in alt. seg.)
STP = PTR (common )
STP ~ PTR (equiangular)
TP TS k 11 8
(ratio of sides, ~ ) ; k = 33
TR TP 11 k
G3.2 The layout in Figure 2 can be used to fold a polyhedron. If

this polyhedron has v vertices, find the value of v.
There are 8 faces. f = 8.
There are 8 equilateral s, no of sides = 83 = 24
Each side is shared by 2 faces. Number of edge e = 12
By Euler formula, v e + f = 2
v 12 + 8 = 2 v = 6
G3.3 For arbitrary real number x, define [x] to be the largest integer less than or equal to x. For
instance, [2] = 2 and [3.4] = 3. Find the value of [1.0088100].
1.0088100 = (1 + 0.008)8100 = 100(1 + 80.008 + 280.0082 + ) 106.4
The integral value = 106
G3.4 When choosing, without replacement, 4 out of 30 labelled balls that are marked from 1 to 30,
there are r combinations. Find the value of r.
30 29 28 27
r = 30C4 = = 27405
1 2 3 4
Remark: If the question is changed to: Choose 4 out of 30 labelled balls that are marked from
1 to 30 with repetition is allowed, there are r combinations. Find the value of r.
We shall divide into 5 different cases:
Case 1: All 4 balls are the same number, 30 combinations
Case 2: XXXY, where X, Y are different numbers, 30C2 = 435 combinations
Case 3 XXYY, where X, Y are different numbers, 30C2 = 435 combinations
Case 4 XXYZ, where X, Y, Z are different numbers, 3029282 = 12180 combinations
Case 5 XYZW, where X, Y, Z, W are different numbers, 30C4 = 27405 combinations
Total number of combinations = 30 + 435 + 435 + 12180 + 27405 = 40485
Group Event 4
G4.1 Regular tessellation is formed by identical regular m-polygons for some fixed m. Find the sum
of all possible values of m.
180 m 2
Each interior angle = (s sum of polygon)
m
Suppose n m-polygons tessellate the space.
180 m 2
n= 360 (s at a point)
m
n(m 2) = 2m
n(m 2) 2m + 4 = 4
(n 2)(m 2) = 4
m 2 = 1, 2 or 4
m = 3, 4 or 6
Sum of all possible m = 3 + 4 + 6 = 13
G4.2 Amongst the seven numbers 3624, 36024, 360924, 3609924, 36099924, 360999924 and
3609999924, there are n of them that are divisible by 38. Find the value of n.
38 = 219, we need to investigate which number is divisible by 19.
192 = 361
3624 = 3610 + 13
36024 = 36100 76 = 100(192) 194
360924 = 361000 76
3609924 = 3610000 76
36099924 = 36100000 76
360999924 = 361000000 76
3609999924 = 3610000000 76
n=6
G4.3 If 208208 = 85a + 84b + 83c + 82d + 8e + f, where a, b, c, d, e, and f are integers and 0 a, b, c,
d, e, f 7, find the value of abc + def.
8208208
8 2 6 0 2 6 0
8 3 2 5 3 2
8 4 0 6 5
8 5 0 6
6 2
a = 6, b = 2, c = 6, d = 5, e = 2, f = 0
abc + def = 72
G4.4 In the coordinate plane, rotate point A(6, 8) about the origin O(0, 0) counter-clockwise for
20070 to point B(p, q). Find the value of p + q.
20070 = 36055 + 270
B(8, 6)
p+q=2
Group Spare
GS.1 Calculate the value of 2008 2007
2007
2007 2008 2007
.
2008 2007 2007
2007 2008
2007
= 2007 20082007 = (1)2007 = 1
1 1
GS.2 If x = 2007 , find the value of x4 + .
x x4
2
1
x = 2007
x
1
x2 2 = 2007
x2
1
x2 = 2009
x2
2
2 1
x 2 = 20092 = 4036081
x
4 1
x +2+ = 4036081
x4
1
x4 + = 4036079
x4
99
GS.3 Given that cos = and 180 < < 270. Find the value of cot .
101
101
sec =
99
tan2 = sec2 1
2
=
101
1
99
1012 99 2
=
99 2
=
101 99 101 99
99 2
400
=
99 2
20
tan =
99
99
cot = (= 4.95)
20
2008 3 4015 3
GS.4 Calculate the value of .
2007 3 4015 3
Let x = 2007.5, then 2x = 4015
3
1
8 x 82 x 3
2008 3 4015 3
=
x 0.53 2 x 3 = 2
=
2 x 13 4 x 3
2007 3 40153 x 0.53 2 x 3 1
3
2 x 1 4 x 3
8 x 82 x 3
2
2 x 1 4 x 2 x 12 4 x 2 x 1 4 x 2
2 x 1 4 x 2 x 12 4 x 2 x 1 4 x 2
=
6 x 14 x 2 4 x 1 8 x 2 4 x 16 x 2
6 x 14 x 2 4 x 1 8 x 2 4 x 16 x 2
=
6 x 112 x 2 1 = 6 x 1
6 x 112 x 2 1 6 x 1
=
6023
=
6022
Answers: (2006-07 HKMO Final Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 31 December 2015
Individual Events
I1 a 2 I2 a 16 I3 a 1 I4 A 16
1
b 1 b 160 b 17 b
2
3
c 6 c 3 c 8 c
2
50 8
d d d 18 d 6
11 27
Group Events
1+ 5
G1 W G2 R 18434 G3 b 40 G4 x 137
2
12 1
T 29 x 6 t (= 2.4) R
5 2
S 106 y 12100 x 10 3 z 77
k 4 Q 9 S 25 r 6
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let a be a real number and a = 7 + 13 7 13 . Find the value of a.
2
a = 7 + 13 7 13
2

2
a = 7 + 13 2 7 2 13 + 7 13
= 14 2 36 = 2
y
I1.2 In Figure 1, the straight line l passes though the point l
(a, 3), and makes an angle 45 with the x-axis. If the
equation of l is x + my + n = 0 and b = |1 + m + n|, find (a, 3)
the value of b.
y 3
l: = tan 45o
x2
y3=x2
x y + 1 = 0, m = 1, n = 1
b = |1 1 + 1| = 1 45
x
3 2
I1.3 If x b is a factor of x 6x +11x + c, find the value of c.
f (x) = x3 6x2 +11x + c
f (1) = 1 6 +11 + c = 0
c = 6
c
I1.4 If cos x + sin x = and d = tan x + cot x, find the value of d.
5
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1993 HG10, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2014 HG3
6
cos x + sin x =
5
36
(cos x + sin x)2 =
25
36
1 + 2 sin x cos x =
25
11 11
25 50
sin x cos x sin 2 x + cos 2 x 1 50
d = tan x + cot x = + = = =
cos x sin x sin x cos x sin x cos x 11
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Let n = 1 + 3 + 5 +...+31 and m = 2 + 4 + 6 ...+ 32. If a = m n, find the value of a.
a = 2 + 4 + 6 + 32 (1 + 3 + 5 + +31)
= (2 1) + (4 3) + + (32 31)
= 1 + 1 + + 1 = 16
I2.2 If Figure 1, ABCD is a trapezium, AB = 4 cm, EF = a cm, A4 cm B
CD = 22 cm and FD = 8 cm, if the area of ABEF is b cm2,
A 4 cm B
From A, draw a line APQ parallel
to BC, cutting FE at P and DC at Q.
FP = 12 cm, DQ = 18 cm
AFP ~ ADQ F
a cm
E
x x+8
Let AF = x cm = , x = 16 F
16 cm P
E 8 cm
12 18
b=
(4 + 16)16 = 160 8 cm D 22 cm C
2 D 22 cm Q C
I2.3 In Figure 2, ABC is a triangle, AB = AC = 10 cm and C

ABC = b 100. If ABC has c axis of symmetry, find the
value of c. 10 cm
ABC = 160 100 = 60 = ACB = BAC
ABC is an equilateral triangle.
It has 3 axis of symmetry. A
B 10 cm
2 1
I2.4 Let d be the least real root of the cx 3 8x 3
+ 4 = 0 , find the value of d.
2 1 1 1
3 3
3x 8 x + 4 = 0 3x 2 x 2 = 0
3 3

1
2
x3 = or 2
3
8 8
x= or 8, the least real root is .
27 27
Individual Event 3
I3.1 Suppose that a = cos4 sin4 2 cos2 , find the value of a.
a = (cos2 + sin2 )(cos2 sin2 ) 2 cos2
= cos2 sin2 2 cos2 = (sin2 + cos2 ) = 1
I3.2 If xy = 3 and b = x3y + 10a, find the value of b.
b = (xy)3 10 = 33 10 = 27 10 = 17
n+b
I3.3 If there is (are) c positive integer(s) n such that is also a positive integer, find the value
n7
of c.
n + 17 24
=1 +
n7 n7
n 7 = 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, c = 8
I3.4 Suppose that d = log4 2 + log4 4 + log4 8 + ...+ log4 2c, find the value of d.
d = log4 2 + log4 4 + log4 8 + ...+ log4 28
= log4(24828) = log4(21+2+3++8)
36 log 2 36 36 log 2
= log4(2 ) = = = 18
log 4 2 log 2
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In Figure 1, let the area of the closed region bounded by the straight y
line x + y = 6 and y = 4, x = 0 and y = 0 be A square units, find the
y
x + y= 6
value of A. y=4
As shown in the figure, the intersection points x + y= 6
R Q y=4
P(6, 0), Q(2, 4), R(0, 6)
OP = 6, OR = 4, QR = 2 O
x
Area = A =
1
(6 + 2 ) 4 = 16 O P
x
2
I4.2 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. For example, [2.5] = 2.
Ax 2 4 = 0
If b satisfies the system of equations , find the value of b.
3 + 2( x + [x ]) = 0
16 x 2 4 = 0 1 1
from the first equation x = or .
3 + 2( x + [x ]) = 0 2 2
1 1
Substitute x = into the second equation: LHS = 3 + 2( + 0) = 4 RHS
2 2
1 1
Substitute x = into the second equation: LHS = 3 + 2( 1) = 0 = RHS
2 2
1
b =
2
b
I4.3 Let c be the constant term in the expansion of (2x + )3. Find the value of c.
x
b b3
(2x + )3 = 8 x 3 + 12bx x + 6b 2 +
x x x
1 3
c = the constant term = 6b2 = 6( )2 =
2 2
x
I4.4 If the number of integral solutions of the inequality 2 < c is d, find the value of d.
2
x 3
2 <
2 2
3 x 3
< 2<
2 2 2
2 2 3< x < 2 2 +3
2(1.4) 3 < x < 2(1.4) + 3
0.2 < x < 5.8
x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
d=6
Group Event 1
G1.1 In Figure 1, AEFD is a unit square. The ratio of the length of
A E B
length of the rectangle BCFE to its width. If the length of
AB is W units, find the value of W.
W 1
=
1 W 1 D
F C
1+ 5
W2 W 1 = 0 W =
2
G1.2 On the coordinate plane, there are T points (x, y), where x, y are integers, satisfying
x2 + y2 < 10, find the value of T. (Reference: 2002 FI4.3)
x^2+y^2=10
We first count the number of integral points in the first
2
quadrant:
x = 1; y = 1, 2
x = 2; y = 1, 2 O

= 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1 = 13 -2
T = 4 4 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1
= 29
G1.3 Let P and P + 2 be both prime numbers satisfying P(P + 2) 2007.
If S represents the sum of such possible values of P, find the value of S.
P2 + 2P 2007 0
(P + 1)2 2008 0
(P + 1 + 2008 )(P + 1 2008 ) 0
(P + 1 + 2 502 )(P + 1 2 502 ) 0
1 2 502 P 1 + 2 502
P is a prime 0 < P 1 + 2 502
22 = 484 < 502 < 529 = 23
43 < 1 + 2 502 < 45
(P, P + 2) = (3, 5), (5, 7), (11, 13), (17, 19), (29, 31), (41, 43)
S = 3 + 5 + 11 + 17 + 29 + 41 = 106
G1.4 It is known that log10(20072006 20062007) = a10k, where 1 a < 10 and k is an integer.
Find the value of k.
> 2006(log 2006 + log 2006) + log 2006
= 4013 log 2006
= 4013 log(2.006103)
= 4013 (log 2.006 + 3)
> 4013 log 2 + 40133
> 40130.3 + 40133 = 13242.9 = 1.32429104
k=4
Group Event 2
G2.1 If R = 12 + 222 + 323 + + 10210, find the value of R.
1024
Similar question: 2005 HI7 If M = [log 2 n ] , find the value of M.
n =1
2R = 12 + 22 + + 92 + 10211
2 3 10
R 2R = 2 + 22 + 23 + + 210 10211
R =
(
a Rn 1 )
10 211 =
(
2 210 1 )
10 2048
R 1 2 1
R = 20480 2(1023) = 18434
G2.2 If integer x satisfies x 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 , find the minimum value of x.
Let y = 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + L (to infinity)
(y 3)2 = 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + L = y
y2 7y + 9 = 0
7 + 13 7 13
y= or
2 2
7 13
Clearly y > 3 and <3
2
7 + 13
y = only
2
7+ 9 7 + 13 7 + 16
5= < < = 5.5
2 2 2
3 + 3 + 3 > 3 + 3 + 1.7 > 3 + 4.41 = 3 + 2.1 = 5.1
5.1 < 3 + 3 + 3 < 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 < 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + L < 5.5

x=6
146410000 12100
G2.3 Let y = , find the value of y.
12099
12100 2 12100
y=
12100 1
12100(12100 1)
=
12100 1
= 12100
G2.4 On the coordinate plane, a circle with centre T(3, 3) passes through the origin O(0, 0). If A is a
point on the circle such that AOT = 45 and the area of AOT is Q square units, find the
value of Q. A P
OT = 3 + 3 = 3 2
2 2
OT = AT = radii
OAT = 45 (side opp. eq. s) T(3, 3)
ATO = 90 (s sum of ) 45
1 1
Q = OT AT = 3 2 = 9
2 2
( )
2
O(0, 0)
Group Event 3
G3.1 In figure 1, MN is a straight line, QON = a, POQ = b
and POM = c. If b : a = 2 : 1 and c : b = 3 : 1, find the
value of b.
b = 2a, c = 3b = 6a
a + b + c = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
a + 2a + 6a = 180 a = 20
b = 2a = 40
50 + 120 + 130 50 130 k
G3.2 It is known that (150 50) (150 120) (150 130) = .
2 2
k
If t = , find the value of t.
1 k 2
The question is equivalent to: given a triangle with sides 50, 120, 130, find its area.
50 2 + 130 2 120 2 5
cos C = =
2 50 130 13
1 50 130 k 12
Using the formula ab sin C = , k = sin C = 1 cos 2 C =
2 2 13
k sin C 12
t= = = tan C =
1 k 2 cos C 5
G3.3 In Figure 2, an ant runs ahead straightly for 5 sec 15 cm from
point A to point B. It then turns 30 to the right and run
5 sec 15 cm to point C. Again it repeatedly turns 30 to the
right and run 5 sec 15 twice to reach the points D and E
respectively. If the distance of AE is x cm, find the value of x.
By symmetry BAE =DEA = [180(5 2) 1503] 2
= 45 ( sum of polygon)
Produce AB and ED to intersect at F.
AFE = 180 45 45 = 90 (s sum of )
By symmetry, BFC = DFC = 45 F D E
BCF = DCF = (360 150) 2 = 105 (s at a pt.) 45 150

45
C
Let AB = y = 5 sec 15 cm = CD = DE, let z = BF. z 105
150
z y
Apply Sine rule on ABC, = y
sin 105 sin 45 B 150 x

z = 2 sin 105 y
y
In AEF, x = (y + z) sec 45 = 2 (y + 2 sin 105 y) 45
(
= y 2 1 + 2 sin 105 )
( )
A
= 5 sec15 2 12 + sin 105 = 10 sec 15 (sin 105 + sin 45)
3
= 10 sec 15(2 sin 75 cos 30) = 20 sec 15cos 15 = 10 3
2 E
D
Method 2
150
Join AC, CE. With similar working steps, BAE =DEA = 45 C
BAC = BCA = 15 = DCE = DEC (s sum of isos. )
150
CAE = 45 15 = 30 = CEA y
AC = CE = 2y cos 15 = 25 sec 15 cos 15 = 10 B

x
150
3
x = 2 AC cos 30 = 20 = 10 3 y
2
A
G3.4 There are 4 problems in a mathematics competition. The scores of each problem are allocated
in the following ways: 2 marks will be given for a correct answer, 1 mark will be deducted
from a wrong answer and 0 mark will be given for a blank answer. To ensure that 3 candidates
will have the same scores, there should be at least S candidates in the competition. Find the
value of S.
We shall tabulate different cases:

case no. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 marks for each question
correct 4 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2
blank 0 1 0 2 0 1 3 2 1 1 4 3 2 1 0 0
wrong 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 4 1
Total 8 6 5 4 2 3 2 1 0 1 0 1 2 3 4
The possible total marks for one candidate to answer 4 questions are:
8, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4; altogether 12 possible combinations.
To ensure 3 candidates will have the same scores, we consider the worst scenario:
Given that there are 24 candidates. 2 candidates score 8 marks, 2 candidates score 6
marks, ..............., 2 candidates score 4 marks, then the 25th candidate will score the same as
the other two candidates.
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let x be the number of candies satisfies the inequalities 120 x 150. 2 candies will be
remained if they are divided into groups of 5 candies each; 5 candies will be remained if they
are divided into groups of 6 candies each. Find the value of x.
x = 5m + 2 = 6n + 5, where m and n are integers.
5m 6n = 3
53 62 = 15 12 = 3
m = 3, n = 2 is a pair of solution
The general solution is m = 3 + 6t, n = 2 + 5t, where t is any integer.
x = 5m + 2 = 5(3 + 6t) + 2 = 30t + 17
120 x 150 120 30t + 17 150
103 30t 133
3.43 < t < 4.43 t = 4
x = 304 + 17 = 137
G4.2 On the coordinate plane, the points A(3, 7) and B(8, 14) are reflected about the line y = kx + c,
k
where k and c are constants, their images are C(5, 5) and D(12,10) respectively. If R = , find
c
the value of R.
By the property of reflection, the line y = kx + c is the perpendicular bisector of A, C and B, D.
That is to say, the mid points of A, C and B, D lies on the line y = kx + c
M = mid point of A, C = (4, 6), N = mid point of B, D = (10, 12)
y 6 12 6
By two points form, =
x 4 10 4
1
y = x + 2 k = 1, c = 2, R =
2
G4.3 Given that z = 3 456533 is an integer, find the value of z.
70 = 3 343000 < 3 456533 < 3 512000 = 80
By considering the cube of the unit digit, the only possible answer for z is 77.
G4.4 In Figure 1, ABC is an isosceles triangle, AB = BC = 20 cm and
4
tan BAC = . If the length of radius of the inscribed circle of
3
ABC is r cm, find the value of r.
4 3
BAC = BCA ; sin BAC = , cos BAC = .
5 5
3
AC = 220 cos BAC = 40 = 24, the height of ABC from B = 20 sin BAC = 16
5
Area of ABC = 24 16 = 192 = (20 + 20 + 24 )

1 r
2 2
r=6
147 3
05-06 1 250 2 3 6 4 2006 5 60
Individual 242
6 165 7 0 8 3 9 9 10 5
2
1 2 2 1010 3 4 1 5 59
05-06 4
Group 1
6 0 7 4 8 328 9 7 2 10
3
Individual Events
I1 Let 20 + 300 = x + y , where x and y are rational numbers and w = x2 + y2, find the
value of w. Reference 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
20 + 300 = 5 + 15 + 2 5 15
= ( 5 + 15 )
2
= 5 + 15
x = 5, y = 15.
w = 52 +152 = 250
I2 In Figure 1, a regular hexagon is inscribed in a circle with
circumference 4 m. If the area of the regular is A m2, find the
22
value of A. (Take = )
7
Let the radius be r m.
2 7
2r = 4 r = =
11
7
A = area of 6 equilateral triangles each with side = m
11
1 7 7
= 6 sin 60
2 11 11
147 3
=
121 2
147 3
=
242
1 5
I3 Given that = , find the value of x.
3 28
2+
1
1+
x
3 28
2+ =
1 5
1+
x
3 18
=
1 5
1+
x
1 5
1 + =
x 6
1 1
=
x 6
x = 6
2006
I4 Let A = , find the value of A.
20052005 20052004 20052006
2
Let x = 2005, then 20052005 = 200510001=10001x

20052004 = 20052005 1 = 10001x 1
20052006 = 20052005 + 1 = 10001x + 1,
2006
A=
(10001x ) (10001x 1) (10001x + 1)
2
2006
=
(10001x ) (10001x )2 + 1
2
= 2006
I5 Given that 4 sec2 tan2 7 sec + 1 = 0 and 0 180, find the value of .
4 sec2 (sec2 1) 7 sec + 1 = 0
3 sec2 7 sec + 2 = 0
(3 sec 1) (sec 2) = 0
1
sec = or 2
3
1
cos = 3 (rejected) or
2
= 60
I6 Given that w, x, y and z are positive integers which satisfy the equation w + x + y + z = 12. If
there are W sets of different positive integral solutions of the equation, find the value of W.
1 w 9, keep w fixed, we shall find the number of solutions to x + y + z = 12 w ......(1)
1 x 10 w, keep x fixed, we shall find the number of solutions to y + z = 12 w x ......(2)
1 y 11 w x, keep y fixed, the number of solution to z = 12 w x y is 1
9 10 w 11 w x 9 10 w
Total number of solutions =
w=1 x =1
1 = (11 w x )
y =1 w=1 x =1
9
= [(11 w)(10 w) (1 + 2 + L10 w)]
w=1

9

= (11 w)(10 w) (11 w)(10 w)
1
w=1 2
1 1
( )
9 9
= (11 w)(10 w) = 110 21w + w 2
w=1 2 2 w=1
1 9
= 990 21 45 + 10 19
2 6
45 19 45 22
= 22 21 + = = 165
2 3 2 3
Method 2
The problem is equivalent to: put 12 identical balls into 4 different boxes w, x, y and z. Each
box should have at least one ball to ensure positive integral solution.
Align the 12 balls in a row. There are 11 gaps between the 12 balls. Put 3 sticks into three of
these gaps, so as to divide the balls into 4 groups.
| | |
The three boxes contain 2 balls, 5 balls, 4 balls and 1 ball. w = 2, x = 5, y = 4, z = 1.
11 10 9
The number of ways is C311 = = 165
1 2 3
I7 Given that the number of prime numbers in the sequence 1001, 1001001, 1001001001, .....,
100
{100
{1L100 {1 , ...... is R, find the value of R.
2 2 2
1001 = 71113 which is not a prime

Suppose there are n '1's in 100
{100
{1L100
{1 .
2 2 2
If n is divisible by 3, then the number itself is divisible by 3.
3 6 3(n1)
Otherwise, 100 {100{1L100 {1 =1 + 10 + 10 + ..... + 10
2 2 2
10 3n 1 10 3n 1
= =
10 3 1 999
=
10 1 10 + 10 n + 1
n 2n
( )( )
999
99
12 L 39 10 + 10 + 1
2n n
( )
= n
999
11
12L 31 10 + 10 + 1
2n n
( )
= n
111
Q n is not divisible by 3, 11
12 31 and 111 are relatively prime.
L
n
LHS = 100
{100
{1L100
{1 is an integer
2 2 2
RHS is an integer
10 2 n + 10 n + 1
is an integer 1
111
100
{100 {1L100 {1 = product of two integers
2 2 2
100
{100
{1L100
{1 is not a prime number
2 2 2
there are no primes, R = 0

I8 Let x be the largest integer not greater than x, for example, 2.5 = 2. If
( )
B = log 7 462 + log 2 tan 60 o + 9872 , find the value of B.
B = log (462 + log 3 + 9872 )
7 2
= log (462 + log 1 + 9872 )

7 2
= log (462 + 9872 )

7
99 = 9801 < 9872 < 10000

2
9872 = 99 + a, 0 < a < 1

462 + 9872 = 462 + 99 + a
= 561 + a
= 780 + 1 + a
= 7(711 + 3) + 1 + a
= 7211 + 73 + 1 + a
= 73 + 724 + 73 + 1 + a
73 < 462 + 9872 < 74
(
log7 73 < log 7 462 + 9872 < log7 74 )
(
3 < log 7 462 + 9872 < 4 )
log (462 +
7 9872 ) =3
2006
I9 Given that the units digit of 7 is C, find the value of C.
71 = 7, 72 9 (mod 10), 73 3 (mod 10), 74 1 (mode 10)
72006 = (74)50172 9 mod 10
I10 In Figure 2, ABCD is a square with side length equal to 4 cm.
The line segments PQ and MN intersect at the point O. If the
lengths of PD, NC, BQ and AM are 1 cm and the length of
OQ is x cm, find the value of x.
AP = BM = CQ = DN = 3 cm
PMQN is a rhombus (4 sides equal)
PQ MN, PO = OQ, MO = NO (property of rhombus)
MN = PQ = 4 2 + 2 2 = 20 = 2 5 cm
x= 5
Group Events
G1 Let a, b and c are three prime numbers. If a 2, which is a contradiction.
a=2
By trail and error, b = 3, c = 13 = 22 + 32
6n7 8
zeros
G2 If log log log 100L0 = 1, find the value of n.

6n7 8
zeros
log log 100L 0 =10

( )
log 10 =10
n 10
10n = 10 (10 )
10
n = 1010
3
G3 Given that 0 < < 90 and 1 + sin + sin2 + ..... = . If y = tan , find the value of y.
2
1 3
=
1 sin 2
2 = 3 3 sin
1
sin =
3
1 2
y = tan = =
8 4
G4 Consider the quadratic equation x2 (a 2)x a 1 = 0, where a is a real number. Let and
be the roots of the equation. Find the value of a such that the value of 2 + 2 will be the least.
+ = a 2, = a 1
2 + 2 = ( + )2 2
= (a 2)2 2(a 1)
= a2 4 a + 4 + 2 a + 2
= a2 2 a + 6
= (a 1)2+5
2 + 2 will be the least when (a 1)2 = 0
a=1
G5 Given that the sum of k consecutive positive integers is 2006, find the maximum possible
value of k. (Reference: 2004 HG5)
Let the smallest positive integer be x: x + x + 1 + ..... + x + k 1 = 2006, x > 0
k
[2 x + (k 1)] = 2006 k(2x + k 1) = 41759
2
4 17 59
2x + k 1 = , an integer
k
k is an factor of 41759.
Factors of 4012 are 1, 2, 4, 17, 34, 59, 68, 118, 236, 1003, 2006, 4012
When k = 4m + 2, where m is an integer,
(4m + 2)(2x + 4m + 2 1) = 41759
(2m + 1)(2x + 4m + 1) = 21759
L.H.S. is odd and R.H.S. is even reject 2, 34, 118, 2006
4 17 59
2x + k 1 =
k
4 17 59
>k1
k
4012 > k(k 1)
4012 > k 1
64 > k
Possible values of k = 1, 4, 17, 59 only
When k = 1, 1(2x) = 4012 x = 2006
When k = 4, 4(2x + 3) = 4012 x = 500
When k = 17, 17(2x + 16) = 4012 x + 8 = 118 x = 110
When k = 59, 59(2x + 58) = 41759 x + 29 = 34 x = 5
The maximum possible k = 59
G6 Let a, b, c and d be real numbers such that a2 + b2 = c2 + d2 = 1 and ac + bd = 0. If R = ab+ cd,
find the value of R. (Reference: 2002 HI7, 2009 FI3.3, 2014 HG7)
Let a = sin A, b = cos A, c = cos B, d = sin B
ac + bd = 0
sin A cos B + cos A sin B = 0
sin(A + B) = 0
R = ab + cd
= sin A cos A + cos B sin B
1
= (sin 2A + sin 2B)
2
1
= [2 sin(A + B)cos(A B)] = 0
2
Method 2
There is no need to let the sum = 1.
R2 = R2 02 = (ab + cd)2 (ac + bd)2
= a2b2 + c2d2 a2c2 b2d2
= a2(b2 c2) d2(b2 c2)
R2 = (b2 c2)(a2 d2) LLLL (1)
a2 + b2 = c2 + d2 b2 c2 = d2 a2 LLLL (2)
Sub. (2) into (1): R2 = (d2 a2)(a2 d2) = (a2 d2)2
LHS 0, whereas RHS 0
LHS = RHS = 0
R = ab + cd = 0
G7 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square with perimeter equal to 16 cm,
EAF = 45 and AP EF. If the length of AP is equal to R cm, find
the value of R.
(reference: http://www.hkedcity.net/ihouse/fh7878/Geometry/transform/Q5.pdf)
AB = BC = CD = DA = 4 cm
Let BE = x cm, DF = y cm.
Rotate ABE about A in anti-clockwise direction by 90 D y F
G C
Then ABE ADG; GD = x cm, AG = AE (corr. sides 's)
AE = AE (common side)
P
EAG = 90 ( of rotation)
45 E
GAF = 90 45 = 45 = EAF x
A B
AEF AGF (SAS)
AGD = AEP (corr. s. 's)
ADG = 90 = APE (by rotation)
AD = AB (sides of a square)
ADG APE (AAS)
AP = AD = 4 cm (corr. sides 's)
G8 Given that x and y are real numbers and satisfy the system of the equations
100 64
x + y + x y
=9
80 . If V = x2 + y2, find the value of V.
80
+ =9
x + y x y
100 64 80 80
+ =9= +
x+ y x y x+ y x y
20 16
=
x+ y x y
x+ y x y
= =k
5 4
Let x + y = 5k, x y = 4k.
100 64
+ =9
5k 4 k
20 + 16 = 9k
k=4
x + y = 20, x y = 16
x = 18, y = 2
V = 182 + 22 = 328
G9 In Figure 2, given a rectangular box with dimensions 3 cm,

4 cm, and 7 cm respectively. If the length of the shortest
path on the surface of the box from point X to point Y is
K cm, find the value of K.
Unfold the rectangular box as follow. Note Y1

that the face P is identical to the face Q.
There are 3 possible routes to go from X to 4 cm
P
Y:
XY1 = 32 + (4 + 7 ) cm = 130cm
2
XY2 = 4 2 + (3 + 7 ) cm = 116cm
2
XY3 = 7 2 + (3 + 4) cm = 7 2cm
2
7 cm
The length of the shortest path is 7 2 cm.
3 cm 7 cm X 3 cm
4 cm Q
4 cm
Y2 3 cm
3 cm
Y3
7 cm
G10 Given that x is a positive real number which satisfy the inequality |x 5| |2x + 3| 1, find
the least value of x.
Reference: 2001 HG9 ...... |x 3| + |x 5| = 2.......
Case 1: x 1.5
5 x + 2x + 3 1
x 7
Case 2: 1.5 < x 5
5 x 2x 3 1
1
x
3
1
x5
3
Case 3: 5 < x
x 5 2x 3 1
9 x
5<x
1
Combined solution: x 7 or x
3
1
The least positive value of x = .
3
Individual Events
9
I1 a 1 I2 R I3 S 10 I4 k 1
25
1
b S 1 R 30 r 2
2
1 2
C 10 T 1 T 6 s (= )
2 2
D 2 W 5 P 7 +2 w 9
Group Events
G1 k 1 G2 w 45 G3 r 2006 G4 R 12 3
16 7
B z 13 x (=1.75) S 8
15 4
1 1 1
C s z 30 T
4 4 2
15
a 1 t 14 R (= 3.75) W 2013021
4
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If a is a real number satisfying log2 (x + 3) log2 (x + 1) = 1, find the value of a.
x+3
log2 = log2 2
x +1
x + 3 = 2x + 2
x=1a=1
I1.2 In Figure 1, O is the centre of the circle with radius 1 cm. If the
length of the arc AB is equal to a cm and the area of the shaded A
1 cm
sector OAB is equal to b cm , find the value of b. (Take = 3)
2
O a cm
1 1 1
b = rs = 1 1 = 1 cm
2 2 2 B
Figure 1
I1.3 An interior angle of a regular C-sided polygon is 288b, find the value of C.
Each interior angle = 288b = 144
360 o
Each exterior angle = 36 =
C
C = 10
I1.4 Given that C is a root of the equation kx2 + 2x + 5 = 0, where k is a constant.
If D is another root, find the value of D.
1
100k + 20 + 5 = 0 k =
4
2
C + D = sum of roots =
k
10 + D = 8 D = 2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Given that a, b and c are three numbers not equal to 0 and a : b : c = 6 : 3 : 1.
3b 2
If R = , find the value of R.
2a 2 + bc
3(3k )
2
9
Let a = 6k, b = 3k, c = k, then R = =
2(6k ) + (3k )k 25
2
k+R k + 2R
I2.2 Given that = 0 . If S = , find the value of S.
R 2k + R
9 9
k+ =0k=
25 25
9 18
+
k + 2R 25 25
S= = =1
2k + R 18 9
+
25 25
I2.3 Given that T = sin 50(S + 3 tan 10), find the value of T.
sin 10 o
T = sin 50(1 + 3 )
cos 10 o
=
sin 50 o
cos 10 o
(
cos 10 o + 3 sin 10 o )
2 sin 50 o 1 3
= o
cos 10 o + sin 10 o
cos 10 2 2
=
2 sin 50 o
cos 10 o
(
cos 60 o cos 10 o + sin 60 o sin 10 o )
2 sin 50 o cos 50 o sin 100 o
= = =1
cos 10 o cos10 o
T
y=
I2.4 Given that x0 and y0 are real numbers satisfying the system of equations x .
y = x + T
If W = x0+ y0, find the value of W.
1
y =
x
y = x + 1
1
= x + 1 ..........(*)
x
1 1
= x + 1 or = x + 1
x x
1 = x2 + x or 1 = x2 + x
x2 + x 1 = 0 or x2 x + 1 = 0
1 5
x= or no solution
2
1 5
Check: sub. x = into (*)
2
2
LHS = < 0, RHS > 0 (rejected)
1 5
1+ 5 2 5 +1 1 + 5 1+ 5
When x = ; LHS = = ; RHS = +1 = (accepted)
2 1 + 5 2 2 2
1+ 5 1+ 5 1+ 5
y= W = x0 + y0 = + = 5
2 2 2
Individual Event 3
2x 3 A B
I3.1 Given that 2 = + ,where A and B are constants. If S= A2 + B2, find the value of S
x x x 1 x
2 x 3 Ax + B( x 1)
=
x2 x (x 1)x
A + B = 2, B = 3
A = 1, B = 3
S = (1)2 + 32 = 10
I3.2 In Figure 1, ABCD is an inscribed rectangle, AB = (S 2) cm and
D C
AD = (S 4) cm. If the circumference of the circle is R cm, find the
value of R. (Take = 3)
AB = 8 cm, CD = 6 cm
AC = 10 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
A B
R = 10 = 30
Figure 1
R
I3.3 Given that x and y are integers satisfying the equation xy = 21x + 20y 13.
2
If T = xy, find the value of T.
15xy = 21x + 20y 13
(3x 4)(5y 7) = 15
3x 4 = 1 3x 4 = 3 3 x 4 = 5 3 x 4 = 15 3 x 4 = 1
or or or or or
5 y 7 = 15 5 y 7 = 5 5 y 7 = 3 5y 7 = 1 5 y 7 = 15
3 x 4 = 3 3 x 4 = 5 3 x 4 = 15
or or
5 y 7 = 5 5 y 7 = 3 5 y 7 = 1
For integral solution: 3x 4 = 5, 5y 7 = 3
x = 3, y = 2 T = 32 = 6
I3.4 Let a be the positive root of the equation x2 2x T = 0.
T
If P = 3 + , find the value of P.
T
2+
T
2+
T
2+
a
x2 2x 6 = 0
a =1 + 7
6
a2 2a 6 = 0 a2 = 2a + 6 a = 2 +
a
T 6 T 6 T 6
2+ = 2 + = a 2+ = 2+ = a 2+ =2+ =a
a a T a T a
2+ 2+
a T
2+
a
6 6
P =3 + = 1 + 2 + = 1+ a = 1 + 1 + 7 = 2 + 7
a a
Individual Event 4
k 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
I4.1 Let = 1 + + + + 1 + + + + , find the value of k.
4 2 3 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3
1 1 1 1 1 k 1
Let x = 1 + + , y = 1 + + + , then = x(y 1) y(x 1) = x + y = k = 1
2 3 2 3 4 4 4
I4.2 Let x and y be real numbers satisfying the equation y2 + 4y + 4 + x + y + k = 0.
If r = |xy|, find the value of r.

Reference: 2005 FI4.1, 2009 FG1.4, 2011 FI4.3, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
The equation is equivalent to (y + 2)2 + x + y + k = 0
which is a sum of two non-negative numbers.

y + 2 = 0 and x + y + 1 = 0
y = 2 and x 2 + 1 = 0, x = 1
r = |21| = 2
I4.3 In Figure 1, there are eight positive numbers in series. Starting from the 3rd number, each
1
number is the product of the previous two numbers. Given that the 5th number is and the
r
1
8th number is . If the first number is s, find the value of s.
r4
1 1
s
r r4
Let the 2nd number be a, then other numbers are as follows:

1 1
s a sa sa2 s 2 a3 = s 3 a5 s 5 a8 s8a13=
r r4
1
s 2 a3 = ................. (1)
r
1
s8a13= .............. (2)
r4
(2)(1)4: a = 1
1 1 1
Sub. a = 1 into (1): s2 = = ;s>0s=
r 2 2
Let w = 1 + [10s2] + [10s4] + [10s6] + + [10s2n] + , find the value of w.
1 1 1 1
w = 1 + [10 ] + [10 ] + [10 ] + + [10 n ] +
2 4 8 2
=1+5+2+1+0+0+=9
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that k is a real number. If x2 + 2kx 3k2 can be divisible by x 1, find the greatest value
of k.
By factor theorem, 12 + 2k 3k2 = 0
3k2 2k 1 = 0
(3k + 1)(k 1) = 0
1
k = or 1
3
Greatest value of k = 1
x y
+ =1 1 1
G1.2 Given that x = x0 and y = y0 satisfy the system of equations 3x 5y . If B = + , find the
+ =1 x0 y0
5 3
value of B.
x y x y x x y y
+ = + =1 = x=y
3 5 5 3 3 5 3 5
x x 15 16
Sub. x = y into the first equation: + = 1 x = y = B =
3 5 8 15
G1.3 Given that x = 2 + 3 is a root of the equation x2 (tan + cot )x + 1 = 0.
If C = sin cos , find the value of C.
Let the other root be y, (2 + 3 )y = product of roots = 1 y = 2 3
tan + cot = sum of roots = 2 + 3 + 2 3 = 4
sin cos 1 1
+ =4 = 4 C = sin cos =
cos sin sin cos 4
G1.4 Let a be an integer. If the inequality |x + 1| < a 1.5 has no integral solution, find the greatest
value of a.
Q |x+ 1| 0, In order that the equation has no integral solution, it is sufficient that a 1.5 < 0
a < 1.5
Greatest integral value of a = 1
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, PRS is a straight line, PQ = PR = QS and Q
QPR = 30. If RQS = w, find the value of w.

QPR = QSP = 30 (base s isos. )
30
PQS = 120 (s sum of ) P S
R
PQR=PRQ=(18030)2 = 75 (s sum of isos. )
Figure 1
RQS = 120 75 = 45
G2.2 Let f (x) = px7 + qx3 + rx 5, where p, q and r are real numbers.
If f (6) = 3 and z = f (6) Find the value of z. (Reference: 1995 FI1.3)
f (6) = 3 p67 q63 6r 5 = 3
f (6) = p67 + q63 + 6r 5 = (p67 q63 6r 5) 10 = 3 10 = 13
1
20 n
G2.3 If n 0 and s = 2 n + 4 , find the value of s.
2 + 2 2n+2
1 1
20 n 20 n 1
s = 2n
= 2n
=
16 2 + 4 2 20 2 4
2n
G2.4 Given that x and y are positive integers and x + y + xy = 54. If t = x + y, find the value of t.
1 + x + y + xy = 55
(1 + x)(1 + y) = 55
1 + x = 5, 1 + y = 11 or 1 + x = 11, 1 + y = 5
x = 4, y = 10 or x = 10, y = 4
t = 14
Group Event 3
8 2
G3.1 Given that r = 2006 , find the value of r.
2
It is easy to show that r = 2006.
G3.2 Given that 6x+y = 36 and 6x+5y = 216, find the value of x.
x + y = 2 ............. (1)
x + 5y = 3 ........... (2)
7
5(1) (2): 4x = 7 x =
4
G3.3 Given that tan x + tan y + 1 = cot x + cot y = 6. If z = tan(x + y), find the value of z.
tan y + tan x
tan x + tan y + 1 = =6
tan x tan y
5
tan x + tan y = 5; tan x tan y =
6
tan x + tan y 5
tan(x + y) = = = 30
1 tan x tan y 1 56
G3.4 In Figure 1, ABCD is a rectangle, F is the midpoint of CD and A D

BE : EC = 1 : 3. If the area of the rectangle ABCD is 12 cm2 and
the area of BEFD is R cm2, find the value of R. F
Area of BCD = 6 cm 2
B C
3 1 9 E
Area of CEF = 6 cm2 = cm2 Figure 1
4 2 4
9 15
Area of BEFD = (6 ) cm2 = cm2
4 4
Group Event 4
G4.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a parallelogram, BE CD, BF AD, 2 cm
CE = 2 cm, DF = 1 cm and EBF = 60. 1 cm

D E C
If the area of the parallelogram ABCD is R cm2, F

60
EDF = 360 90 90 60 = 120 (s sum of polygon)
BAD = BCD = 180 120 = 60 (int. s //-lines) A B
Figure 1
2
BC = cm = 4 cm = AD
cos 60 o
BE = 2 tan 60 = 2 3 cm
AF = (4 1) cm = 3 cm
3
AB = cm = 6 cm
cos 60 o
Area of ABCD = AB BE = 62 3 cm2 = 12 3 cm2
2 2
1 1
G4.2 Given that a and b are positive real numbers and a + b = 2. If S = a + + b + , find
a b
the minimum value S.
( )2
a b 0 a + b 2 ab 0 1 ab 1 ab ............. (1)
a + b2 = (a + b)2 2ab = 4 2ab 4 2 = 2 ...............(2)
2
1 1
1 2 2 1 ......... (3)
ab a b
2 2
1 1 1 1
S = a + + b + = a2 + b2 + 2 + 2 + 4
a b a b
a +b
2 2
= a2 + b2 + 2 2 + 4
a b
= (a 2 + b 2 )1 + 2 2 + 4
1
a b
2(1 + 1) + 4 = 8 (by (2) and (3))
1 1
G4.3 Let 2x = 7y = 196. If T = + , find the value of T.
x y
Reference: 2001 HI1, 2003 FG2.2, 2004 FG4.3, 2005 HI9
x log 2 = y log 7 = log 196
log196 log196
x= ,y=
log 2 log 7
1 1 log 2 + log 7 log 14 1
T= + = = =
x y log196 log14 2 2
Method 2 (provided by Denny)
1 1
2 = 196 x , 7 = 196 y
1 1 1 1
+
27 = 14 = 196 196 = 196
x y x y
1 1 1
+ =
x y 2
G4.4 If W = 20062 20052 + 20042 20032 + + 42 32 + 22 12, find the value of W.
W = (2006 + 2005)(20062005) + (2004 + 2003)(20042003) + + (4+3)(43) + (2+1)(21)
= 2006 + 2005 + 2004 + + 4 + 3 + 2 + 1
=
2006
(2006 + 1) = 10032007 = 2013021
2
Individual Events (Remark: The Individual Events are interchanged with Group Events)
I1 a 40 I2 a 7 I3 a 1 I4 a 1
*b 1
b 70 b 5 see the 0.0625 or b 9
remark 16
1
C 4 C 35 c 0.5 or c 20
2
d *20 d 6 d 6 d 6
see the remark
Group Events (Remark: The Group Events are interchanged with Individual Events)
7
G1 a 9 G2 a 15 G3 A G4 a 3
4
3 1
b 125 b 999985 b or b 2
3 3
c 5 c 4 c 7 c 6
1 509 100
d 2 or 2.5 d d d 171
2 256 11
Individual Event 1
I1.1 There are a camels in a zoo. The number of one-hump camels exceeds that of two-hump
camels by 10. If there have 55 humps altogether, find the value of a.
Suppose there are x one-hump camels, y two-hump camels.
x y = 10 ........... (1)
x + 2y = 55 ......... (2)
(2) (1) 3y = 45 y = 15
sub. y = 15 into (1): x 15 = 10 x = 25
a = x + y = 25 + 15 = 40
I1.2 If LCM(a, b) = 280 and HCF(a, b) = 10, find the value of b.

HCF LCM = ab
2800 = 40b
b = 70
I1.3 Let C be a positive integer less than b . If b is divided by C, the remainder is 2; when divided
by C + 2, the remainder is C, find the value of C.
C < 70 C 8 ............(1)
70 = mC + 2 ......................(2)
70 = n(C + 2) + C .............(3)
From (2), mC = 68 Q2 < C 8 , C = 4 (C 1, 2, otherwise remainder > divisor !!!)
I1.4 A regular 2C-sided polygon has d diagonals, find the value of d.

Reference: 1984 FG10.3, 1985 FG8.3, 1988 FG6.2, 1989 FG6.1, 1991 FI2.3, 2001 FI4.2
n(n 3)
The number of diagonals of a convex n-sided polygon is .
2
85
d= = 20
2
Remark: The following note was put at the end of the original question:
()
(NB: a diagonal is a straight line joining two vertices not on the same side.)
The note is very confusing. As the definition of diagonal is well known, there is no need to
add this note.
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Mr. Chan has 8 sons and a daughters. Each of his sons has 8 sons and a daughters. Each of his
daughters has a sons and 8 daughters. It is known that the number of his grand sons is one
more than the number of his grand daughters and a is a prime number, find the value of a.
Grandsons = 88 + aa = a2 + 64
Grand daughters = 8a + a8 = 16a
a2 + 64 = 16a + 1
a2 16a + 63 = 0
(a 7)(a 9) = 0
a = 7 or a = 9
a is a prime number, a = 7
a 3
I2.2 Let = 2 + b + 3 2 b . Find the value of b.
7
1= 3 2 + b + 3 2 b
3
1 = 3
2 + b + 3 2 b

1 = 2+ b +3 2+ b ( ) (2 b ) + 3(2 + b ) (2 b )
2
3
1
3
1
3
2
3
+2 b
1 = 4 + 3 (4 b ) 3
1
(2 + b ) + 3(4 b) (2 b )
1
3 1
3
1
3
0 = 3 + 3 (4 b ) 3 (2 + b ) + (2 b )
1 1 1
3 3

0 = 1 + (4 b ) 3
1
(4 b )
1
= 1 3
4 b = 1
b=5
I2.3 In Figure 1, find the value of C.
6b+ 5b+ C + C + (C + 20) = 180

115 + 3C + 20 = 180
C = 35
I2.4 Given that P1 , P2 , K , Pd are d consecutive prime numbers.

If P1 + P2 + K + Pd 2 = Pd 1 + Pd = C + 1, find the value of d.
By trial and error 5 + 7 + 11 + 13 = 17 + 19 = 36, d = 6.
Individual Event 3
1 1

x +1
I3.1 Given that a is a positive real root of the equation 2 =8 x 3
. Find the value of a.
1 1 3
1 3
x +1 x +1
2 = 8 2 = 2 x x + 1 = 1
x 3
x
2
x + 2x 3 = 0
(x + 3)(x 1) =0
x = 3 or 1, a = 1 is a real positive root.
I3.2 The largest area of the rectangle with perimeter a meter is b square meter, find the value of b.
The perimeter = 1 m.
Let the length of the rectangle be x m, the width is (1 2 x ) m.
1
2
1 1
2
1
Its area is (1 2 x ) x m2 = x 2 x m2 = x + m2.
1
2 2 4 16
1
b = = 0.0625
16
Remark: The original version is: The area of the largest rectangle
It is ambiguous to define the largest rectangle. It should be changed to The largest area of the
rectangle LL
I3.3 If c = (1234 3 1232 (1234 2 + 2472)) b , find the value of c.

1
c = (1234 3 1232 (1234 2 + 2472)) , let x = 1234
16
= {
1 3
16
[ ]}
x ( x 2 ) x 2 + 2( x + 2 ) = {1
16
(
x 3 (x 2) x 2 + 2 x + 4 )}
= {x 3 (x 3 8)}= =
1 8 1
16 16 2
1 1 1 8
I3.4 If + +L+ = , find the value of d.
(c + 1)(c + 2) (c + 2)(c + 3) (c + d )(c + d + 1) 15
1 1 1 8
+ +L+ =
(c + 1)(c + 2) (c + 2)(c + 3) (c + d )(c + d + 1) 15
1 1 1 1 1 1 8
+ +L+ =
c +1 c + 2 c + 2 c + 3 c + d c + d + 1 15
1 1 8 1 1 8
= 1 1 =
c + 1 c + d + 1 15 2 +1 2 + d +1 15
2 8 2
=
3 15 3 + 2d
2 2
=
15 3 + 2d
3 + 2d = 15
d=6
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If A 2 + B 2 + C 2 = AB + BC + CA = 3 and a = A 2 , find the value of a.
A 2 + B 2 + C 2 = AB + BC + CA = 3 and a = A 2 , find the value of a.
[ ]
2 A 2 + B 2 + C 2 ( AB + BC + CA) = 6 6 = 0
A2 2AB + B2 + B2 2BC + C2 + C2 2AC + A2 = 0
(A B)2 + (B C)2 + (C A)2 = 0 (sum of three non-negative numbers = 0)
AB=BC=CA=0
A=B=C=1
a = A2 = B2 = C2 = 1
I4.2 Given that n and b are integers satisfying the equation 29n + 42b = a. If 5 < b < 10, find the
value b. Method 2
42 = 29 + 13 13 = 42 29 .........(1) b = 6, 7, 8, 9.
29 = 132 + 3 3 = 29 132 .........(2) By trial and error,
13 = 34 + 1 1 = 13 34 .........(3) when b = 9,
Sub. (1) into (2): 3 = 29 (42 29)2 = 293 422 ......(4) 29n + 429 = 1
Sub. (1), (4) into (3) 1 = 42 29 (293 422)4 n = 13
1 = 29(13) + 429 b = 9 satisfies the equation.
n = 13, b = 9
3 5+ 7 c 21 18 15 2 35 + b
I4.3 If = , find the value of c.
3+ 5+ 7 59
3 5 + 7 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
3+ 5+ 7 59
3 + 7 5 3 + 7 5 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
3+ 7+ 5 3+ 7 5 59
( )
2
(
3 + 7 2 5 3 + 7 +5 ) =
c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
( 3+ 7) 5
2
59
3 + 7 + 2 21 2 15 2 35 + 5 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
3 + 7 + 2 21 5 59
15 + 2 21 2 15 2 35 2 21 5 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
5 + 2 21 2 21 5 59
30 21 + 84 12 35 28 15 75 10 21 + 10 15 + 10 35 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
4 21 25 59
20 21 18 15 2 35 + 9 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
59 59
c = 20
( ) ( )(
Method 2 Cross multiplying 59 3 5 + 7 = 3 + 5 + 7 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9 )
Compare coefficient of 3 : 9 90 + 7c = 59 c = 20
I4.4 If c has d positive factors, find the value of d.

Reference 1993 HI8, 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2002 FG4.1
The positive factors of 20 are 1, 2, 4, 5, 10 and 20.
d=6
Group Event 1
G1.1 Suppose there are a numbers between 1 and 200 that can be divisible by 3 and 7, find the
value of a.
The number which can be divisible be 3 and 7 are multiples of 21. 20021 = 9.5, a = 9
G1.2 Let p and q be prime numbers that are the two distinct roots of the equation x 2 13 x + R = 0 ,
where R is a real number. If b = p 2 + q 2 , find the value of b.
Reference: 1996 HG8, 1996FG7.1, 2001 FG4.4, 2012 HI6
x 2 13 x + R = 0 , roots p and q are prime numbers. p + q = 13, pq = R
The sum of two prime numbers is 13, so one is odd and the other is even, p = 2, q = 11
b = p2 + q2 = 22 + 112 = 125
1 2 cos sin
G1.3 Given that tan = . If c = , find the value of c.
2 sin + cos
1
2+
1 2 cos sin 2 tan 2 =5
tan = . c = = =
2 sin + cos tan + 1 1
+1
2
1 1
G1.4 Let r and s be the two distinct real roots of the equation 2 x 2 + 2 3 x + = 1 . If
x x
d = r + s , find the value of d.
1 1 1 1
2 x 2 + 2 3 x + = 1 , real roots r, s. Let t = x + , then x 2 + 2 = t2 2.
x x x x
2(t2 2) 3t = 1
2t 2 3t 5 = 0
(2t 5)(t + 1) = 0
5
t= or 1
2
1 5 1
x+ = or x + = 1
x 2 x
1 1 5
x = 2 or r = 2, s = d = r + s =
2 2 2
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a rectangle, AB = 6 cm and BC =

10 cm. M and N are the midpoints of AB and DC
respectively. If the area of the shaded region is a cm2,
find the value of a.
1 1
a = area of rectangle = 6 10 = 15
4 4
G2.2 Let b = 89 + 899 + 8999 + 89999 + 899999 , find the value of b.

b = 89 + 899 + 8999 + 89999 + 899999
= (90 1)+(900 1)+ (9000 1) + (90000 1) + (900000 1)
= 999990 5 = 999985
1
x+
G2.3 Given that 2x + 5y = 3. If c = 4 2 32 y , find the value of c.
1
x+
2x + 5y = 3. c = 4 2 32 y = 2 2 x +1 2 5 y = 2 2 x +5 y +1 = 2 3+1 = 4
1 2 3 4 10
G2.4 Let d = + + + + K + 10 , find the value of d.
2 4 8 16 2
1 2 3 4 10 3 4 5 10
d= + + + + K + 10 , 2d = 1 + 1 + + + + K + 9
2 4 8 16 2 4 8 16 2
3 4 5 10 1 2 3 4 10
2d d = 1 + 1 + + + + K + 9 + + + + K + 10
4 8 16 2 2 4 8 16 2
1 3 2 4 3 5 4 10 9 10
= 1 + (1 ) + ( ) + ( ) + ( ) + ........ + ( 9 9 ) 10
2 4 4 8 8 16 16 2 2 2
1
1
1 1 1 1 1 10 210 5
d=1+ + + + + .......... + 9 =
2 4 8 16 2 1024 1 512
1
2
1023 5 1018 509
= = =
512 512 512 256
Group Event 3
3 7
G3.1 Let 0 < < 45. If sin cos = and A = sin , find the value of A.
16
3 7 7 3
Method 1 2sin cos = t= or (rejected)
8 3 7
3 7 7
sin 2 =
8 tan =
3
2
3 7 7
cos 2 = 1 sin 2 = 1
2 A = sin =
8 4
Method 3
1 1
= 64 63 = 3 7 3 7
8 8 sin cos = =
16 4 4
1 7
1 2 sin2 = sin = 3 7 7 3
8 4 sin = , cos = or sin = , cos =
4 4 4 4
3 7
Method 2 2 sin cos = , 7
8 Q 0 < < 45, sin < cos , sin =
4
3 7
sin 2 = tan 2 = 3 7
8
2t
t = tan , tan 2 = =3 7 4
1 t2 7
2t = 3 7 3 7 t2
3 7 t2 + 2t 3 7 = 0
(3t 7 )( 7 t + 3) = 0 3
G3.2 In figure 1, C lies on AD, AB = BD = 1 cm, ABC = 90 and CBD = 30 .
If CD = b cm, find the value of b.
AB = BD = 1 cm, ABD is isosceles.
BAD = BDA = (180 90 30) 2 = 30 (s sum of isosceles )
BCD is also isosceles.
1
CD = b cm = BC = AB tan BAD = 1 tan 30 cm = cm
3
G3.3 In Figure 2, a rectangle intersects a

circle at points B, C, E and F. Given
that AB = 4 cm, BC = 5 cm and
DE = 3 cm. If EF = c cm, find the
value of c.
AB = 4 cm, BC = 5 cm and DE = 3 cm. EF = c cm B N C

A 4
Draw BG DF, CH DF
2.5 2.5
DG = AB = 4 cm, GH = BC = 5 cm
D 3 E G M H F
EG = DG DE = 4 cm 3 cm = 1cm
Let O be the centre.
Let M be the foot of perpendicular of O on EF
and produce OM to N on BC. O
ON BC (corr. s AC // DF)
BN = NC = 2.5 cm ( from centre bisect chord)
MF = EM ( from centre bisect chords)
= EG+GM = 1 cm+BN = 1cm+ 2.5cm = 3.5 cm
EF = 2EM = 7 cm
G3.4 Let x and y be two positive numbers that are inversely proportional to each other. If x is
increased by 10 %, y will be decreased by d %, find the value of d.
x y = k, x1 = 1.1 x
x1y1 = xy 1.1xy1 = xy
10 y y 1011y 100 100
y1 = , Percentage decrease = 100% = %, d =
11 y 11 11
Group Event 4
G4.1 If a = log 1 0.125 , find the value of a.
2
1
log 3
a = log 1 0.125 =
log 0.125
= 8 = log 2 = 3 log 2 = 3
1 1 log 2 1 log 2
2 log log
2 2
G4.2 Suppose there are b distinct solutions of the equation x 2 x + 1 = 3 , find the value of b.
Reference: 2002 FG.4.3, 2009 HG9, 2012 FG4.2
x 2x + 1 = 3
x |2x + 1| = 3 or x |2x + 1| = 3
x 3 = |2x + 1| or x + 3 = |2x + 1|
x 3 = 2x + 1 or 3 x = 2x + 1 or x + 3 = 2x + 1 or 2x + 1 = x 3
2 4
x = 4 or or 2 or
3 3
2
Check: when x = 4 or , x 3 = |2x + 1| 0, no solution
3
4
When x = 2 or , x + 3 = |2x + 1| 0, accepted
3
There are 2 real solutions.
G4.3 If c = 2 3 3 1.5 6 12 , find the value of c.
c = 2 3 3 1.5 6 12 = 2 3 2 (2 2 3) 6
1
1
3 3 1
2
1 1 + 2 1
+1+1
= 2 3 6 3 2 3 6 = 23 = 6
G4.4 Given that f1 = 0, f2 = 1, and for any positive integer n 3, fn = fn1 + 2fn2. If d = f10, find the
value of d.
The characteristic equation: x2 = x + 2 x2 x 2 = 0 (x + 1)(x 2) = 0 x = 1 or 2
fn = A(1)n + B2n, n = 1, 2, 3, LLL
f1 = A + 2B = 0 LLL (1)
f2 = A + 4B = 1 LLL(2)
1
(1) + (2) 6B = 1, B =
6
1 1
Sub. into (1): A + = 0, A =
3 3
1 1 1 1 513
fn = (1)n + 2n, d = f10 = + 1024 = = 171
3 6 3 6 3
Method 2: f1 = 0, f2 = 1
f3 = f2 + 2f1 = 1 + 0 = 1; f4 = f3 + 2f2 = 1 + 2 = 3
f5 = f4 + 2f3 = 3 + 21 = 5; f6 = f5 + 2f4 = 5 + 23 = 11
f7 = f6 + 2f5 = 11 + 25 = 21; f8 = f7 + 2f6 = 21 + 211 = 43
f9 = f8 + 2f7 = 43 + 221 = 85; f10 = f9 + 2f8 = 85 + 243 = 171 = d
http://twg.hkcampus.net/~twg-htw Page 8
1 2009010 2 7 3 45 4 700 5 6
03-04
3 19
Individual 6 12.5 7 6 8 9 12 10
16 4
1 2475 2 1 3 6 4 32 5 5
03-04
1 5
Group 6 500 7 34.56 8 9 10 10
6 3
Individual Events
I1 Let A = 12 22 + 32 42 + .... + 20032 20042, find the value of A.
Reference: 1997 HI5, 2002 FG2.3, 2015 FI3.2, 2015 FG4.1
A = (12 22) + (32 42) + .... + (20032 20042)
= 3711 ..... 4007, this is an arithmetic series, a= 3, l = 4007=a+(n1)(4), n =1002
3 4007
= 1002 = 2009010
2
I2 If 2003 B 2003 , C is the unit digit of B, find the value of C.
B = 20032003; 31 = 3, 32 = 9, 33 = 27, 34 = 81, 35 = 243; the unit digit repeats for every
multiples of 4. 20032003 = 20034500+3; the unit digit is 7; C = 7.
I3 If x + y + z = 10, x2 + y2 + z2 = 10 and xy + yz + zx = m, find the value of m.
(x + y + z)2 = 102 x2 + y2 + z2 + 2(xy + yz + zx) = 100 10 + 2m = 100 m = 45
I4 Arrange the natural numbers in the following order. In this arrangement, 9 is in the row 3 and
the column 2. If the number 2003 is in the row x and the column y, find the value of xy.
1 2 4 7 11 16 ...
3 5 8 12 17 ...
6 9 13 18 ...
10 14 19 ...
15 20 ...
21 ...
Consider the integers in the first column of each row: 1, 3, 6, 10, ...
They are equivalent to 1, 1 + 2, 1 + 2 + 3, 1 + 2 + 3 + 4, ...
nn 1
The first integer in the nth row = 1+ 2 + 3 + ... + n =
2
nn 1
< 2003 n(n + 1) < 4006
2
6263 = 3906, 6364 = 4032
The greatest possible n = 62
3906 2 = 1953
The 63rd element of the first row = 1954
The 62nd element of the second row = 1955, ......... and so on.
2003 = 1953 + 50; 63 50 + 1 = 14
The 14th element of the 50th row is 2003; x = 50, y = 14
xy = 5014 = 700
I5 Let E = 12 6 3 12 6 3 , find the value of E.
Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
12 6 3 = 9 3 2 9 3 = a b 2 ab = a b = 3 3
12 6 3 = 9 3 2 9 3 = a b 2 ab = a b = 3 3
12 6 3 12 6 3 = 3 3 3 3 = 6
I6 In the figure, O is the centre of the bigger semicircle

with radius 10 cm, OB is the diameter of the smaller
semicircle and C is the midpoint of arc OB and it lies
on the segment OA. Let the area of the shaded region
be K cm2, find the value of K. (Take = 3)
Shaded area = area of sector OAB area of OCB
1 1
= 10 2 10 5 = 12.5
2 4 2
I7 In the figure, let the shaded area formed by the three straight lines
y = x + 3, y = x + 1 and y = 5x + 19 be R, find the value of R.
Intersection points are A(1, 2), B(3,4), C(4, 1).
CAB = 90
1
Area = 8 18 6 sq.unit
2
2
I8 If t = sin 4 cos 2 , find the value of t.
6 6
2
t = sin 4 cos 2
6 6
4 2
1 1
=
2 2
1 1
=
16 4
3
=
16
I9 In the figure, C lies on AE, ABC and CDE are
equilateral triangles, F and G are the mid-points of
BC and DE respectively. If the area of ABC is
24 cm2, the area of CDE is 60 cm2, and the area of
AFG is Q cm2, find the value of Q.
FAC = GCE = 30
AF // CG (corr. s eq.)
Area of AFG = Area of ACF = 12 cm2
(They have the same bases AF and the same height)
I10 If and are the roots of the quadratic equation 4x2 10x + 3 = 0 and k = 2 + 2,
k = 2 + 2
= ( + )2 2
2
5 3
= 2
2 4
19
=
4
Group Events
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 1 2 99
G1 If x ,
2 3 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 100 100 100
find the value of x.
1 2 3 4 99 100
x = = 99 = 2475
2 2 2 2 2 4
G2 If z is the positive root of the equation 64x 136x + 69x = 0, find the value of z.
6(4x + 9x) = 136x
x=1
G3 If there are at most k mutually non-congruent isosceles triangles whose perimeter is 25cm and
the lengths of the three sides are positive integers when expressed in cm, find the value of k.
Possible triangles are {7,7,11}, {8,8,9}, {9,9,7}, {10,10,5}, {11,11,3}, {12,12,1}
k=6
G4 Given that a, b are positive real numbers satisfying a3 = 2004 and b2 = 2004. If the number of
integers x that satisfy the inequality a < x < b is h, find the value of h.
123 = 1728, 442 = 1976
a3 = 2004 12 < a < 13; b2 = 2004 44 1), find the least value of R.
Let the smallest positive integer be x. (Reference: 2006 HG5)
x + (x + 1) + ... + (x + R 1) = 1000
2 x R 1 1000
R
2
2000
R(2x + R 1) = 2000 2x + R 1 = , which is an integer.
R
Possible R are: 1,2,4,5,8,10,16,20,25,40,50,80,100,125,250,400,500,1000,2000.
When R = 4m + 2, where m is an integer.
(4m + 2)(2x + 4m + 1) = 2000 (2m + 1)(2x + 4m + 1) = 1000
L.H.S. is odd, R.H.S. is even reject 2, 10, 50, 250.
When R = 4m, where m is an integer.
4m(2x + 4m 1) = 2000 m(2x + 4m 1) = 500 = 4125 m is a multiple of 4
R = multiple of 16 reject 4, 8, 20, 40, 100, 500, 1000
2000
2x + R 1 = > R 1 2000 > R(R 1) 2000 > R 1 45 > R
R
The possible values of R are 1, 5, 16, 25.
When R = 1, 1(2x) = 2000 x = 1000
When R = 5, 5(2x + 4) = 2000 x = 198
When R = 16, 16(2x + 15) = 2000 x = 55
When R = 25, 25(2x + 24) = 2000 x = 28
The least value of R > 1 is 5, x = 198.
198 + 199 + 200 + 201 + 202 = 1000
G6 If a, b and c are positive integers such that abc + ab + bc + ac + a + b + c = 2003, find the
least value of abc.
(a + 1)(b + 1)(c + 1) = 2004 = 22 3 167
abc is the least when the difference between a, b and c are the greatest.
a + 1 = 2, b + 1 = 2, c + 1 = 501
a = 1, b = 1, c = 500
abc = 500
G7 In the figure, ABCD is a trapezium, the segments AB and CD are both perpendicular to BC
and the diagonals AC and BD intersect at X. If AB = 9 cm, BC = 12 cm and CD = 16 cm, and
the area of BXC is W cm2, find the value of W.
Reference: 1993 HI2, 1997 HG3, 2000 FI2.2, 2002 FI1.3, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
ABX ~ CDX
AX : CX = AB : CD = 9 : 16
SABX : SCDX = 92 : 162 = 81 : 256
Let SABX = 81y, SCDX = 256y
Let AX = 9t, CX = 16t ( ABX ~ CDX)
ABX and BCX have the same height.
16t 16
SBCX = SABX = 81 y 144 y
9t 9
SABC = SABX + SBCX
9 12
= 81y + 144y
2
6
y
25
6
SBCX = 144y = 144 = 34.56
25
G8 Let y = log1400 2 + log1400 3 5 + log1400 6 7 , find the value of y.
log 2 3 5 6 7 12 log 2 13 log 5 16 log 7 3 log 2 2 log 5 log 7
y = =
log1400 log1400 6 log1400
log 8 log 25 log 7 log2 4 25 7 log1400 1
y= = = =
6 log1400 6 log1400 6 log1400 6
G9 In the figure, ABC is an isosceles triangle with AB = AC and ABC = 80. If P is a point on
the AB such that AP = BC, ACP = k, find the value of k.
Reference:, 2010 HG10 A
ACB = 80 = ACB (base s isos. )
BPC = (20 + k) (ext. of APC) P
AP CP
(1) (sine rule on ACP)
sin k sin 20
BC CP
(2) (sine rule on BCP)
sin 20 k sin 80

80
sin 20 k

sin 80 cos10 1
(1) (2): =
=
sin k
sin 20 2 sin 10 cos10 2 sin 10

B C
2 sin(20 + k) sin 10 = sin k
cos(10 + k) cos(30 + k) = sin k
cos(10 + k) = sin(60 k) + sin k
cos(10 + k) = 2 sin 30 cos(30 k)
cos(10 + k) = cos(30 k)
10 + k = 30 k
k = 10
Method 2
Rotate A 60 in anti-clockwise direction about P as shown. A
APQ is an equilateral triangle. Join QC.
ACB = 80 = ACB (base s isos. ) Q
QAP = 60 = AQP (s of an equilateral ) P
QAC = 60 + 20 = 80 = ACB
QA = AP = BC (given)
AC = AC (common)
ACB CAQ (S.A.S.)
AQC = ABC = 80 (corr. s s)
CQP = 80 60 = 20 = CAP
CP = CP (common)
80
AP = QP (by construction)
APC QPC (S.S.S.)
ACQ = BAC = 20 (corr. s ACB CAQ) B C
ACP = QCP = 10 (corr. s APC QPC)
G10 Suppose P(a, b) is a point on the straight line x y + 1 = 0 such that the sum of the distance
between P and the point A(1,0) and the distance between P and the point B(3,0) is the least,
find the value of a + b.
Regard x y + 1 = 0 as mirror. 4.0
y
C(1,2) is the mirror image of A(1,0). x-y+1=0

Sum of distance is the least 3.0
P(a, b) lies on BC. C(-1,2)

2.0
P(a, b) lies on x y + 1 = 0
b=a+1
P(a,b)
1.0
mPB mBC
x
a 1 2 -4.0 -3.0 -2.0 -1.0 1.0
A(1,0) 2.0 3.0
B(3,0) 4.0 5.

a 3 4 -1.0
2a 2 = a 3
-2.0
1 4
a , b
3 3 -3.0
5
a+b= -4.0
3
Individual Events
I1 a 6 I2 P *2 I3 a 2 I4 a 2 IS P 84
see the remark
b 2+4 2 Q 6 b 9 b 11 Q 8
1 3
c 7 R 56 c c 462 R
24 4
7
d 11 S 2352 d d *334 S 1+ 2
18 see the remark
Group Events
G1 a 47 G2 a 2 G3 a 10 G4 P 500 GS a 16
b 101 b 4.5 b 0 Q 15 b 1
1
c 43 c 15 c 2005 R c 12
2
d 0 d 1 d 2005 S 1 d 9
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Given that there are a positive integers less than 200 and each of them has exactly three
positive factors, find the value of a.
If x = rs, where r and s are positive integers, then the positive factors of x may be 1, r, s and x.
In order to have exactly three positive factors, r = s = a prime number.
Possible x = 4, 9, 25, 49, 121, 169. a = 6.
I1.2 If a copies of a right-angled isosceles triangle with hypotenuse 2 cm can be assembled to
form a trapezium with perimeter equal to b cm, find the least possible value of b. (give the
answer in surd form).
or
The perimeter = 6 + 2 2 8.8 or 2 + 4 2 7.7

The least possible value of b = 2 + 4 2
4
I1.3 If sin(c2 3c + 17) = , where 0 < c2 3c + 17 < 90 and c > 0, find the value of c.
b2
4 1
sin(c2 3c + 17) =
24 2 2 2
2
c 3c + 17 = 45
c2 3c 28 = 0
(c 7)(c + 4) = 0
c = 7 or 4 (rejected)
I1.4 Given that the difference between two 3-digit numbers xyz and zyx is 700 c, where x > z.
If d is the greatest value of x + z, find the value of d.
xyz zyx = 700 c
100x + 10y + z (100z + 10y + x) = 700 7
99x 99z = 693
xz=7
Possible answers: x = 8, z = 1 or x = 9, z = 2
d is the greatest value of x + z = 9 + 2 = 11
Individual Event 2
I2.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square, M is the mid-point of AD and N is the
mid-point of MD. If CBN : MBA = P : 1, find the value of P.
Let ABM = , CBM = P. Let AB = 4, AM = 2, MN = 1 = ND.
1
tan
2
2 tan 2 12 4
tan 2 tan P , P = 2
1 tan
2
1
1 2
2
3
I2.2 Given that ABCD is a rhombus on a Cartesian plane, and the co-ordinates of its vertices are
A(0, 0), B(P, 1), C(u, v) and D(1, P) respectively. If u + v = Q, find the value of Q.
ABCD is a rhombus, It is also a parallelogram
By the property of parallelogram, the diagonals bisect each other
Mid point of B, D = mid point of AC
1 2 2 1 0 u 0 v
, ,
2 2 2 2
u = 3, v = 3 Q = u + v = 6
I2.3 If 1 + (1 + 2) + (1 + 2 + 3) + + (1 + 2 + 3 + + Q) = R, find the value of R.
R = 1 + (1 + 2) + (1 + 2 + 3) + + (1 + 2 + 3 + + 6)
R = 1 + 3 + 6 + 10 + 15 + 21 = 56
I2.4 In the figure, EBC is an equilateral triangle, and A, D lie on EB E
and EC respectively. Given that AD//BC, AB = CD = R and AC
BD. If the area of the trapezium ABCD is S, find the value of S. A D
ABC = BCD = 60, AC intersects BD at J, AC BD. x x
J
ACD DBA (S.A.S.) 56 56
AC = BD (corr. sides, s) y y
ABD = DCA (corr. s, s)
JBC = 60 ABD = JCB
B C
JBC is a right-angled isosceles triangle.
JBC = JCB = 45 E
BJ = CJ = y, AJ = AC y = BD y = DJ = x
JAD = JDA = 45, ADC = 120 A D
56 x y
Apply sine formula on ACD, J
sin 45 sin 120 56 56
x + y = 28 6 , area = x y 2 sin 90 7846 2352

1 1
28 3
2 2
Method 2 EBC = 60 = ECB B 28 C
F G 28
Draw AF BC and DG BC, cutting BC at F and G.
BF = CG = 56 cos 60 = 28
AF = DG = 56 sin 60 = 28 3
AC intersects BD at J, AC BD.
ACD DBA (S.A.S.)
JBC = 60 ABD = JCB
JBC = JCB = 45
CF = AF cot 45 = 28 3
FG = CF CG = 28 3 1= AD
Area of the trapezium ABCD = S =

28 3 1 2 28 2

28 3 = 2352
2
Individual Event 3
1 1 2
I3.1 Let x1 and x3.If a is the real root of the equation 2 ,find the value of a
x 1 x 3 x 1
1 2 1 1 2 x 1
2
x 3 x 1 x 1 x 3 x 1 x 1
1 1 x 1 1

x 3 x 1 x 1 x3 x 1
x +1 = x 3 x = 2 = a
a 1
I3.2 If b > 1f (b) = and g(b) = 1 + . If b satisfies the equation
log 2 b log 3 b
|f(b) g(b)| + f(b) + g(b) = 3, find the value of b.
Similar question: 2007 HI9
2 log 2 log 3 2 log 2 log 3 log 4 3b log 12 4 b2
1 1 3 2 log log
log b log b log b log b log b log b 3b 12
4 b2
log log
3b 12
4 b2 4 12
log log or log log 2
3b 12 3b b
b3 = 16 or b = 9
4 b2
When b3 = 16, (b3)2 = 256 < 1728 = 123 b2 < 12 log log < 0 rejected.
3b 12
4 b2 81
When b = 9, log = log = log > 0 accepted.
3b 12 12
Method 2
x y x y
Remark Define the maximum function of x, y as: Max(x, y) =
2
x y x y
Similarly, the minimum function of x, y is: Min(x, y) =
2
a 2 log 2 log 4 1 log b log 3 log 3b
f(b) = , g(b) =1+ =
log 2 b log b log b log 3 b log b log b log b
The given equation is equivalent to 2 Max(f(b), g(b)) = 3
log 4 log 3b 4
If f(b) > g(b), i.e. b< , then the equation is 2f(b) = 3
log b log b 3
3
2 log 4 4 4
3 log 16 = log b3 b3 = 16 < 1 <
log b 3 27
27 < 4, which is a contradiction; rejected
If f(b) g(b), the equation is equivalent to 2 g(b) = 3
2 log 3b
i.e. 3 log 9b2 = log b3 9b2 = b3 b = 9
log b
x02
I3.3 Given that x0 satisfies the equation x2 5x + (b 8) = 0. If c = , find the value of c.
x04 x02 1
x2 5x + 1 = 0, x2 + 1 = 5x, x4 + 2x2 + 1 = 25x2, x4 + x2 + 1 = 24x2
x2 x2 1
c = 4 02 = 02 =
x0 x0 1 24 x 0 24
I3.4 If 2 and 216c are the roots of the equation px2 + dx = 1, find the value of d.
2 and 9 are roots of px2 + dx 1 = 0
1 1
Product of roots = = 29 p =
p 18
d 7
Sum of roots = = 2+9 18d = 7 d =
p 18
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Let a be a real number.
If a satisfies the equation log2(4x + 4) = x + log2(2x+1 3), find the value of a.
log2(4x + 4) = log2 2x + log2(2x+1 3)
4x + 4 = 2x(2x+1 3)
(2x)2 + 4 = 2(2x)2 32x
0 = (2x)2 32x 4
(2x 4)(2x + 1) = 0
2x = 4, x = 2 = a
I4.2 Given that n is a natural number.
If b = n3 4an2 12n + 144 is a prime number, find the value of b. (Reference: 2011 FI3.3)
Let f (n) = n3 8n2 12n + 144
f (6) = 63 862 126 + 144 = 216 288 72 + 144 = 0
f (6) is a factor
By division, f (n) = (n 6)(n 6)(n + 4)
b = n3 8n2 12n + 144 , it is a prime n 6 = 1, n = 7, b =11
I4.3 In Figure 1, S1 and S2 are two different inscribed squares of the right-angled triangle ABC.
If the area of S1 is 40b + 1, the area of S2 is 40b and AC + CB = c, find the value of c.
Reference: American Invitation Mathematics Examination 1987 Q15
A A
F E y
c b Q c
b
h
440
441 x S
C D B C P B
a a
Add the label D, E, F, P, Q, R, S as shown. CDEF, PQRS are squares.

Let DE = x, SR = y, then x = 441 = 21, y = 440 . Let BC = a, AC = b, AB = c = a 2 b 2 .
Let the height of the triangle drawn from C onto AB be h, then ab = ch = 2 area of .....(*)
bx x ab
AFE ~ ACB: x= = 21 .................(1)
b a ab
height of CSP from C h h y h ch
CSP ~ CAB: y= = 440
SP c y c ch
ab ab a 2 b 2
By (*), = 440 440 2 ......(2)
ab a ab b 2
c
c
From (1) ab = 21(a + b) ............ (3), sub. (3) into (2):
21a b a b 2ab 21a b a b 42a b 21 a b 42a b

2 2 2
440
a b 2 ab a b 2 21a b a b 21
Cross multiplying and squaring both sides:
440[(a + b)2 42(a + b) + 441] = 441[(a + b)2 42(a + b)]
(a + b)2 42(a + b) 440441 = 0
(a + b 462)(a + b + 420) = 0
AC + CB = a + b = 462
I4.4 Given that 241c + 214 = d2, find the positive value of d. Method 3
d = 241462 + 214 = 111556
2
Observe the number
d = 111556 patterns:
Reference: 342 = 1156
Divide 111556 into 3 groups of numbers 11, 15, 56. 3342 = 111556
Find the maximum integer p such that p2 11 p = 3 33342 = 11115556
11 p2 = 2 ................................
3+3=6 d = 334
Find the maximum integer q such that (60 + q)q 215 Also, 332 = 1089
q=3 3332 = 110889
215 633 = 26 33332 = 11108889
60 + q + q = 66 .....................................
Find the maximum integer r such that (660 + r)r 2656 34 = 12
r=4 3334 = 1122
d = 334 333334 = 111222
Method 2: d2 = 241462 + 214 = 111556 33333334 = 11112222
3002 = 90000 < 111556 < 160000 = 4002 300 < d < 400 .....................................
3302 = 108900 < 111556 < 115600 = 3402 330 < d < 340
The unit digit of d2 is 6 the unit digit of d is 4 or 6
3352 = 112225 d = 334
or 111556 is not divisible by 3, but 336 is divisible by 3
d = 334
Remark: Original question: , find the value of d. d = 334
Individual Event (Spare)

IS.1 In figure 1, ABC is an acute triangle, AB = 15, AC = 13, and its
altitude AD = 12. If the area of the ABC is P, find the value of P.
BD = 15 2 12 2 = 9
CD = 132 12 2 = 5
P = area of = 9 5 12 = 84
1
2
IS.2 Given that x and y are positive integers. If x4 + y4 is divided by x + y, the quotient is P + 13
and the remainder is Q, find the value of Q.
x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q, 0 Q < x + y
Without loss of generality, assume x y,
x4 < x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q < 98(x + y) 98(2x) = 196x
x3 < 196
x5
On the other hand, x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q = x3(x + y) y(x3 y3)
(x3 97)(x + y) = y(x3 y3) + Q
RHS 0 LHS 0 x3 97
x5
x=5
Next, x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q = y3(x + y) + x(x3 y3)
(97 y3)(x + y) = x(x3 y3) Q
(97 y3)(x + y) > x(x3 y3) (x + y)
(98 y3)(x + y) > 0
98 > y3
4 y ........... (1)
0 Q 0 x4 + y4 97(x + y)
97(5 + y) 625 + y4
97y 140 + y4 ............... (2)
By trial and error, y = 1 and y = 4 satisfies (2)
So there are two possible pairs (x, y) = (5, 1) or (5,4).
54 + 14 = 626 = (5 + 1)104 + 2, the quotient is not 97.
54 + 44 = 881 = (5 + 4)97 + 8, Q = 8
12
IS.3 Given that the perimeter of an equilateral triangle equals to that of a circle with radius cm.
Q
If the area of the triangle is R2 cm2, find the value of R.
12
Radius of circle = cm = 1.5 cm circumference = 21.5 cm = 3 cm
8
Side of the equilateral triangle = cm
1 3 2 2 3
Area of the triangle = 2 sin 60 cm2 = cm R =
2 4 4
3 1
IS.4 Let W = ,S=W+ , find the value of S.
2R 1
W
1
W
W
1 1 2
W = 2, S = 2 + S2 2S 1 = 0, S = , S > 0, S = 1 + 2 only
S 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that a is an integer. If 50! is divisible by 2a, find the largest possible value of a.
2, 4, 6, 8, , 50 are divisible by 2, there are 25 even integers.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
4, 8, , 48 are divisible by 4, there are 12 multiples of 4.
8, , 48 are divisible by 8, there are 6 multiples of 8.
32 is the only multiple of 32.
a = 25 + 12 + 6 + 3 + 1 = 47
G1.2 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. For example, [2.5] = 2.
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
If b = 100 , find the value of b.
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
100
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79 11 12 13 14
= 100
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 12 13 14
= 100 1
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 100 12 100 13 100 14 100
= 100 +
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
1176+1277+1378+1479 <11100+12100+13100+14100<2(1176+1277+1378+1479)
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
1 2
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
101 100 102 , b = 101
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
G1.3 If there are c multiples of 7 between 200 and 500, find the value of c.
200
= 28.6, the least multiple of 7 is 729 = 203
7
500
= 71.4, the greatest multiple of 7 is 771 = 497
7
497 = a + (c 1)d = 203 + (n 1)7; c = 43
x
G1.4 Given that 0 x0 and x0 satisfies the equation sin x 1 1 sin x sin . If d = tan x0,
2 2
find the value of d.

2
2 x
sin x 1 1 sin x sin
2
1 cos x
1 + sin x + 1 sin x 2 1 sin 2 x
2
2(2 2 cos x) = 1 cos x
cos x = 1
x0 = 0
d = tan x0 = 0
Group Event 2
5
G2.1 If the tens digit of 55 is a, find the value of a.
5
55 = 125, the tens digit = a = 2
Remark Original question: If the tenth-place digit , this is the position of the first digit to
the right of the decimal point.
G2.2 In Figure 1, ABC is a right-angled triangle, AB = 3cm,
AC = 4 cm and BC = 5 cm. If BCDE is a square and the area of
ABE is b cm2, find the value of b.
3
cos B =
5
3 9
Height of ABE from A = AB cos B = 3
5 5
1 9 9
b = 5
2 5 2
G2.3 Given that there are c prime numbers less than 100 such that their unit digits are not square
numbers, find the values of c.
The prime are: {2, 3, 5, 7, 13, 17, 23, 37, 43, 47, 53, 67, 73, 83, 97}
c = 15
G2.4 If the lines y = x + d and x = y + d intersect at the point (d 1, d), find the value of d.
x = (x + d) + d
x=0=d1
d=1
Group Event 3
G3.1 If a is the smallest real root of the equation x x 1 x 2 x 3 1 71 , find the value of a.
Reference: 1993 HG6, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3
Let t = x + 1.5, then the equation becomes t 1.5t 0.5t 0.5t 1.5 1 71
2 9 2 1
t t 1 71
4 4
2
5 9 5 25 5
t 4 t 2 1 71 t 4 t 2 71 t 2 71
2 16 2 16 4
5 289 17 17
t 2 71 t 2 t= or t =
4 4 2 2
17 3
x = t 1.5 = = 7 or 10, a = the smallest root = 10
2 2
G3.2 Given that p and q are prime numbers satisfying the equation 18p + 30q = 186.
p
If log 8 = b 0, find the value of b.
3q 1
18p + 30q = 186 3p + 5q = 31
Note that the number 2 is the only prime number which is even.
3p + 5q = 31 = odd number either p = 2 or q = 2
p 2 1
If p = 2, then q = 5; b = log 8 = log 8 log 8 < 0 (rejected)
3q 1 3 5 1 16
p 7
If q = 2, then p = 7; b = log 8 = log 8 0
3q 1 3 2 1
G3.3 Given that for any real numbers x, y and z, is an operation satisfying
(i) x 0 = 1, and
(ii) (x y) z = (z xy) + z.
If 12004 = c, find the value of c.
c = 1 2004 = (10) 2004 = (20040)+ 2004 = 1 + 2004 = 2005
G3.4 Given that f (x) = (x4 + 2x3 + 4x 5)2004 + 2004. If f

3 1 = d, find the value of d.
x 3 1

(x + 1)2 = 3
2
x2 + 2x 2 = 0
By division, x4 + 2x3 + 4x 5 = (x2 + 2x 2)(x2 + 2) 1 = 1

d = f 3 1 = f(x) = (x4 + 2x3 + 4x 5)2004 + 2004 = (1)2004 + 2004 = 2005
Group Event 4
4x 1 2 1000
G4.1 If f x and P = f f f , find the value of P.
4 2
x
1001 1001 1001
4x 41 x 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
f x f 1 x x 1
4 2 41 x 2 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
1 2 1000
P= f f f
1001 1001 1001
1 1000 2 999 500 501
= f f f f f f = 500
1001 1001 1001 1001 1001 1001
G4.2 Let f (x) = |x a| + |x 15| + |x a 15|, where a x 15 and 0 < a < 15.
If Q is the smallest value of f (x), find the value of Q.
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2011 FGS.1, 2012 Final G2.3
f (x) = x a + 15 x + 15 x + a = 30 x 30 15 = 15 = Q
1 1
G4.3 If 2m = 3n = 36 and R = , find the value of R.
m n
Reference: 2001 HI1, 2003 FG2.2, 2004 FG4.3, 2005 HI9, 2006 FG4.3
log 2m = log 3n = log 36
m log 2 = n log 3 = log 36
log 36 log 36
m= ;n=
log 2 log 3
1 1 log 2 log 3 log 6 log 6 1
= = = =
m n log 36 log 36 log 36 2 log 6 2
G4.4 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x, for example, [2.5] = 2.
1 1 1
If a 1 2 2 and S = [a], find the value of a.
2 3 2004 2
1 1 1 1 1 1
1 < a 1 2 2 < 1
2 3 2004 2
1 2 2 3 2003 2004
1 1 1 1 1
= 11
2 2 3 2003 2004
1
= 2 <2
2004
S = [a] = 1
Group Event (Spare)

GS.1 For all integers n, Fn is defined by Fn = Fn1 + Fn2, F0 = 0 and F1 = 1.
If a = F5 + F4 + + F4 + F5, find the value of a.
F2 = 0 + 1 = 1, F3 = 1 + 1 = 2, F4 = 1 + 2 = 3, F5 = 2 + 3 = 5
F1 + 0 = 1 F1 = 1, F2 + 1 = 0 F2 = 1, F3 + (1) = 1 F3 = 2,
F4 + 2 = 1 F4 = 3, F5 + (3) = 2 F5 = 5
a = F5 + F4 + + F4 + F5 = 5 3 + 2 1 + 1 + 0 + 1 + 1 + 2 + 3 + 5 = 16
GS.2 Given that x0 satisfies the equation x2 + x + 2 = 0. If b = x04 + 2x03 + 3x02 + 2x0 +1, find the
value of b.
By division, b = x04 + 2x03 + 3x02 + 2x0 +1
= (x02 + x0 + 2)(x02 + x0) + 1 = 1
GS.3 Figure 1 shows a tile. If C is the minimum number of tiles

required to tile a square, find the value of C.
C = 12
GS.4 If the line 5x + 2y 100 = 0 has d points whose x and y coordinates are both positive integers,
(x, y) = (18, 5), (16, 10), (14, 15), (12, 20), (10, 25), (8, 30), (6, 35), (4, 40), (2, 45)
d=9
1
1 *8 2 3 9 4 6 5 8
02-03 see the remark
2
Individual 3
6 7 8 8 55 9 9 10 4
4
63 3 5
1 2 2 3 3 4 5 1
02-03 2525 4
Group 9
6 7 10 8 40 9 20.56 10 10
8
I1 Let f be a function such that for all integers m and n, f(m) is an integer and f(mn) = f(m) f(n).
It is given that f(m) > f(n) when 9 > m > n, f(2) = 3 and f(6) > 22, find the value of f(3).
f(4) = f(2)f(2) = 9
22
f(6) = f(2)f(3) = 3f(3) > 22 f(3) >
3
22 22
Q3<4 < f(3) < f(4) < f(3) < 9
3 3
f(3) is an integer f(3) = 8
Remark: The old version of the question was:
Let f be a function such that for all integers m and n, f(m) is an integer and f(mn) = f(m) f(n). It
is given that f(m) > f(n) when m > n, f(2) = 3 and f(6) > 22, find the value of f(3).
The old version of the question was wrong because it can be proved that f(15) > f(16).
Proof: f(4) = f(2)f(2) = 9
22
f(6) = f(2)f(3) = 3f(3) > 22 f(3) >
3
22 22
Q3<4 < f(3) < f(4) < f(3) < 9
3 3
f(8) = f(4)f(2) = 27; f(16) = f(8)f(2) = 81
f(9) = f(3) f(3) = 64; f(12) = f(4)f(3) = 72
1
f(9) < f(10)< f(12) 64 <f(10)< 72 64 <f(2)f(5)< 72 64 <3f(5)< 72 21 < f(5)< 24
3
f(5) = 22 or 23 f(15) = f(3) f(5) = 8f(5) = 176 or 184 > 81 = f(16), which is a contradiction
1
I2 If P = , find the value of P log2 P.
4
P log2 P = log 2 = log 2 2 2 = ( 2 ) =

1 1 1 1 1
4 4 4 4 2
2
99999 x + 1
I3 If 0 x 1, find the maximum value of log10 .
1000
1 99999 x + 1
0 99999x 99999 1 99999x + 1 100000 100
1000 1000
2
99999 x + 1 99999 x + 1
3 log10 2 log10 9
1000 1000
I4 Given that a quadratic equation a(x + 1)(x + 2) + b(x + 2)(x + 3) + c(x + 3)(x + 1) = 0 has
a
roots 0 and 1, and k = , find the value of k.
b
Put x = 0, 2a + 6b + 3c = 0 .................(1)
Put x = 1, 6a + 12b + 8c = 0 3a + 6b + 4c = 0 .................(2)
3(2) 4(1): a 6b = 0
a
k= =6
b
I5 There are n persons in the classroom. If each person in the classroom shakes hands exactly
once with each other person in the classroom and there are altogether 28 handshakes. Find the
value of n.
n(n 1)
There are altogether nC2 hand-shaking: = 28 n = 8
2
1 sin kx
I6 If for any 0 < x < , cot x cot x , where k is a constant, find the value of k
1
sin x (sin x )
2 4
4
cos 14 x cos x sin kx

sin 4 x sin x 1
sin x (sin x )
1
4
cos 14 x sin x cos x sin 14 x sin kx

(sin 4 x)(sin x )
1
(sin 14 x)(sin x )
sin (x 14 x ) sin kx

(sin 14 x)(sin x ) (sin 14 x)(sin x )
3
k=
4
I7 In Figure 1, AB is a diagonal of the cube and AB = 12 cm. If the
volume of the cube is M cm3, find the value of M.
Reference: 1992 HI14, 1995 FI5.2
Let the side length of the square be x cm
x2 + x2 + x2 = AB2 = 12
x=2
M = 23 = 8
I8 In Figure 2, a square with area equal to 25 cm2 is divided into 25 small
squares with side length equal to 1 cm. If the total number of different
squares in the figure is K, find the value of K.
The number of squares with side = 1 is 25
K = total number of squares = 1 + 4 + 9 + 16 + 25 = 55
I9 It is given that the 6-digit number N = x1527 y is a multiple of 4, and the remainder is 5 when
N is divided by 11. Find the value of x + y.
N is a multiple of 4 the last two digit of N must be divisible by 4 y = 2 or 6
When N is divided by 11, the remainder is 5 (N 5) is divisible by 11
When y=2, (N5)= x15267 , it is divisible by 11 x+5+6 (1+2+7) = 11m x = 10 rejected
When y = 6, (N5)= x15271 , it is divisible by 11 x+5+7 (1+2+1) = 11m x = 3
x+y=3+6=9
I10 The sides of a triangle have lengths 7.5 cm, 11 cm and x cm respectively. If x is an integer,
find the minimum value of x.
Triangle inequality gives: 7.5 + 11 > x, 7.5 + x > 11, 11 + x > 7.5
18.5 > x, x > 3.5 and x > 3.5
3.5 < x < 18.5
For integral value of x, the minimum value is 4.
Group Events
1 1 1 1
G1 If k = + + +L+ , find the value of k.
4 5 6 5 6 7 6 7 8 99 100 101
1

1
=
(r + 2) r = 2 1
r (r + 1) (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 )
1 1 1
Put r = 4, = 2
4 5 5 6 45 6
1 1 1
Put r = 5, = 2
5 6 6 7 5 6 7
.........................................................
1 1 1
Put r = 99, = 2
99 100 100 101 99 100 101
1 1 1 1
Add up these equations, k = + + +L+
4 5 6 5 6 7 6 7 8 99 100 101
1 1 1 1 504 63
= = =
2 4 5 100 101 2 10100 2525
G2 Suppose xy + xy = 2 2 and xy xy = k, where x > 1 and y > 0, find the value of k.
2 2
1 1 1 1 1
xy + y
= 2 2 x y + y = 8 x2y + 2y + 2 = 8 x2 y + 2 y 2 = 4 x y y = 4
x x x x x
y y 1
k = x x = xy y = 2
x
G3 In Figure 1, A : B : C = 3 : 2 : 1,
a : b : c = 2 : k : 1, find the value of k.
Let A = 3t, B = 2t, C = t
3t + 2t + t = 180 (s sum of )
t = 30, A = 90, B = 60, C = 30
By sine formula, a : b : c = sin 90 : sin 60 : sin 30
3 1
=1: : = 2 : 3 :1, k = 3
2 2
G4 In Figure 1, AMC and ANB are straight lines, NMC = NBC= 90,
AB = 4, BC = 3, areas of AMN and ABC are in the ratio 1 : 4. Find
the radius of the circle BNMC.
It is easy to show that AMN ~ ABC (equiangular)
2
Area of AMN MN 1
= =
Area of ABC BC 4
MN 1 AN AN 1
= = = , AN = 2.5
BC 2 AC 5 2
NB = AB AN = 4 2.5 = 1.5
3 3 5
NC = diameter = 1.5 2 + 32 = 5 , radius =
2 4
G5 If the equation x2 + ax + 3b a + 2 = 0 has real root(s) for any real number a, find the
maximum value of b.
= a2 4(3b a + 2) = a2 + 4a 8 12b 0
(a + 2)2 12(1 + b) 0
12(1 + b) 0, b 1
G6 Suppose the parabola y = 4x2 5x + c intersects the x-axis at (cos , 0) and (cos , 0)
respectively. If and are two acute angles of a right-angled triangle, find the value of c.
+ = 90 = 90
5 5 5
cos + cos = cos + cos(90 ) = cos + sin =
4 4 4
25 25 9 c 9
(cos + sin )2 = cos2 + 2 sin cos + cos2 = sin cos = = , c =
16 16 32 4 8
2
G7 Suppose the straight line y + 3x 4 = 0 intersects the parabola y = x at points A and B
respectively. If O is the origin, find the area of OAB.
Sub. y = 4 3x into y = x2; x2 = 4 3x x2 + 3x 4 = 0 (x 1)(x + 4) = 0 x = 1 or 4
When x = 1, y = 1; when x = 4, y = 16
1 1 1
Area of OAB = = 10
2 4 16
G8 In Figure 3, AC = BC = CD, ACB = 80.
If ADB = x, find the value of x. Reference 2011 HG9, 2014 FG2.4
We can use C as the centre, AC = BC = CD as the radius to draw a
circle to pass through A, B, D.
1
x = ACB = 40 ( at centre twice at ce)
2
G9 In Figure 4, the sector ABC is one quarter of a circle with radius
4 cm. Suppose the areas of the two shaded parts are equal. Let
the area of the trapezium ABCD be A cm2, find the area of A.
(Take = 3.14)
Let AD = x cm
Area of ABD = area of sector ABC
4 x = (4 ) x = 2
1 1 2
2 4
A = (4 + x ) 4 = 2(4 + 23.14) = 20.56
1
2
G10 In Figure 5, the area of DEF is 30 cm2. EIF, DJF and DKE D
are straight lines. P is the intersection point of DI and EK.

Let EI : IF = 1: 2, FJ : JD = 3 : 4, DK : KE = 2 : 3. Let the
K
area of DFP be B cm2, find the value of B. P
J
Let EI = t, IF = 2t, DK = 2x, KE = 3x
Draw a line IM on DE and parallel to KF.
EM EI 1
= =
E F
By the theorem of equal ratio, I
MK IF 2
D
EM = x, MK = 2x
DP : PI = DK : KM = 2x : 2x = 1:1 (Theorem of equal ratio) x
2 K
Area of DIF = Area of DFE = 20 cm2 2x P
3 J
1 M
Area of DFP = Area of DIF = 10 cm2 B = 10
2 E F
t I 2t
Answers: (2002-03 HKMO Final Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 15 February 2016
Individual Events
I1 P 5 I2 P 23 I3 P 4 I4 P 12
2
Q 4 Q 4 Q 33 Q
3
R 1 R 8 R 3 R 4
S 62 S 8 S 3 2 S 144
Group Events
180
G1 a 29 G2 a 12 G3 a 334501 G4
7
1 1
b 7 b 6 b b
3 5
c 100 c 16 c 1+ 2 c 10
44 1+ 5
d 206 d d 3 d
125 2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let P be the unit digit of 32003 52002 72001. Find the value of P.
32003 72001 is an odd number, and the unit digit of 52002 is 5; P = 5
I1.2 If the equation (x2 x 1)x+P1 = 1 has Q integral solutions, find the value of Q.
The equation is (x2 x 1)x+4 = 1
Either x2 x 1 = 1 .........(1) or x + 4 = 0 ........(2) or (x2 x 1 = 1 and x + 4 is even) ......(3)
(1): x = 2 or 1; (2): x = 4; (3): x = 0 or 1 and x is even x = 0 only
Conclusion: x = 4, 1, 0, 2
Q=4
I1.3 Let x, y be real numbers and xy = 1.
1 1
If the minimum value of 4 + 4 is R, find the value of R.
x Qy
1 1 1 1 1 1
4
+ 4 = 4 + 4 2 4 4 = 1 = R (A.M. G.M.)
x Qy x 4y x 4y
I1.4 Let xR, xR+1, , xK (K > R) be K R + 1 distinct positive integers and xR + xR+1++ xK = 2003.
If S is the maximum possible value of K, find the value of S. (Reference: 2004 HI4)
x1 + x2 + + xK = 2003
For maximum possible value of K, x1 = 1, x2 = 2, , xK1 = K 1
1 + 2 + + K 1 + xK = 2003
(K 1)K + x = 2003, x K
K K
2
2003
(K 1)K + K
2
4006 K2 + K
K2 + K 4006 0

K 1 1 + 4 4006 K 1 + 1 + 4 4006 0
2 2

1 + 1 + 4 4006
0K
2
1 + 1 + 4 4006 1 + 4 4006
= 4006 0.5 3969 0.5 = 632 0.5 = 62.5
2 2
Maximum possible K = 62 = S
1 + 2 + + 62 = 1953 = 2003 50; 1 + 2 + + 61 + 112 = 2003
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If the 50th power of a two-digit number P is a 69-digit number, find the value of P.
(Given that log 2 = 0.3010, log 3 = 0.4771, log 11 = 1.0414.)
Reference: 1995 HG5 37 100 157-digit number, 37 15 n-digit .
P50 = y, 10 < P 99, 1068 y <1069
1
P= y 50 ; 106850 < P < 106950
1.34 < log P < 1.38
log 22 = log 2 + log 11 = 1.3424; log 24 = 3log2+log3=1.3801
log 22 < log P < log 24, P = 23
I2.2 The roots of the equation x2 + ax P + 7 = 0 are and , whereas the roots of the equation
x2 + bx r = 0 are and . If the positive root of the equation (x2+axP+7) + (x2+bxr) = 0
is Q, find the value of Q.
+ = a, = 16; = b, ()() = r
b = a, r = 16
(x2 + ax P + 7) + (x2 + bx r) = 0 is equivalent to (x2 + ax 16) + (x2 ax 16) = 0
2x2 32 = 0
x = 4 or 4
Q = positive root = 4
I2.3 Given that ABC is an isosceles triangle, AB = AC = 2 , and D1, D2, , DQ are Q points on
BC. Let mi = ADi2 + BDiDiC. If m1 + m2 + m3 + + mQ = R, find the value of R.
Reference: 2010 HIS
As shown in the figure, AB = AC = 2
BD = x, CD = y, AD = t, ADC = A
Apply cosine formula on ABD and ACD
t2 + y2 2
cos = t
2ty

( )
cos 180 =
o t 2 + x2 2
2tx
B x D y C
since cos(180 ) = cos

Add these equations and multiply by 2txy:
x(t2 + y2 2) + y(t2 + x2 2) = 0
(x + y)t2 + (x + y)xy 2(x + y) = 0
(x + y)(t2 + xy 2) = 0
t2 + xy 2 = 0
AD2 + BDDC = 2
R = m1 + m2 + m3 + m4 = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 8
Method 2
Let BD = x, CD = y, AD = t, ABC = = ACD, A E
BAD = , CAD = .
Rotate AD anticlockwise about A to AE so that 2
t 2
DAE = BAC.

CAE = DAE = BAD = x y
B D C
By the property of rotation, AE = AD = t.
CAE BAD (S.A.S.)
CE = BD = x (corr. sides, s)
ACE = ABD = (corr. s, s)
DAE + DCE = + + 2 = 180 (s sum of )
2 = 180 ( + ) LLL (*)
The area of ADCE = SADE + SCE = the area of ABC
t sin ( + ) + xy sin 2 = 2 sin ( + )
1 2 1 1 2
2 2 2
t sin( + ) + xy sin[180 ( + )] = 2 sin( + ) by (*)
2
Q sin[180 ( + )] = sin( + ) t2 + xy = 2
AD2 + BDDC = 2
R = m1 + m2 + m3 + m4 = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 8
I2.4 There are 2003 bags arranged from left to right. It is given that the leftmost bag contains R
balls, and every 7 consecutive bags contains 19 balls altogether. If the rightmost bag contains
S balls, find the value of S.
The leftmost bag contains 8 balls.
Starting from left to right, the total number of balls from 2nd bag to the 7th bag is 11.
The number of balls in the 8th bag is therefore 8.
Similarly, the number of balls in the 15th bag, 22th bag, 29th bag, are all 8.
2003 = 7 286 + 1, the rightmost bag should have the same number of balls as the leftmost
bag.
S=8
Individual Event 3
wxyz = 4
I3.1 Given that and w > 0. If the solution of w is P, find the value of P.
w xyz = 3
From (2), xyz = w 3.............(3), sub. into (1)
w(w 3) = 4
w2 3w 4 = 0
w = 4 or w = 1 (rejected)
P=4
I3.2 Let [y] represents the integral part of the decimal number y. For example, [3.14] = 3.

( P
)
If 2 + 1 = Q, find the value of Q. (Reference: HKAL PM 1991 P1 Q11, 2005 HG5)

Note that 0 < 2 1 < 1 and 0 < ( 2 1)4 < 1
4 2
( 2 + 1)4 + ( 2 1)4 = 2( 2 + 6 2 + 1) = 2(4 + 12 + 1) = 34
33 < ( 2 + 1)4 < 34

( 4

)
Q = 2 + 1 = 33
6 x02 + y02
I3.3 Given that x0y0 0 and Qx02 22 3 x0y0 + 11y02 = 0. If = R, find the value of R.
6 x02 y02
33x02 22 3 x0y0 + 11y02 = 0
3x02 2 3 x0y0 + y02 = 0
( 3 x0 y0)2 = 0
y0 = 3 x0
6 x 2 + y02 6 x02 + 3 x02
R = 02 = =3
6 x0 y02 6 x02 3 x02
I3.4 The diagonals AC and BD of a quadrilateral ABCD are perpendicular to each other.
Given that AB = 5, BC = 4, CD = R. If DA = S, find the value of S. D
Reference 1994 FG10.1-2, 2001 FG2.2
Suppose AC and BD intersect at O. 3 S
Let OA = a, OB = b, OC = c, OD = d. d
a2 + b2 = 52 ..........(1)
b2 + c2 = 42...........(2) C
c
A
2 2 2 O a
c + d = 3 ...........(3)
2 2 2
d + a = S ..........(4) b
(1) + (3) (2): S2 = d2 + a2 = 52 + 32 42 = 18
4
S=3 2 5
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Suppose the 9-digit number 32 x35717 y is a multiple of 72, and P = xy, find the value of P.
72 = 89, the number is divisible by 8 and 9. (Reference: 2001 FG1.3)
17 y is divisible by 8, i.e. y = 6.
3 + 2 + x + 3 + 5 + 7 + 1 + 7 + 6 = 9m, where m is an integer.
34 + x = 9m, x = 2
P = xy = 26 = 12
P
I4.2 Given that the lines 4x + y = , mx + y = 0 and 2x 3my = 4 cannot form a triangle. Suppose
3
that m > 0 and Q is the minimum possible value of m, find Q.
2
Slope of L1 = 4, slope of L2 = m, slope of L3 =
3m
2 1
If L1 // L2: m = 4; if L2 // L3: m2 = (no solution); if L1// L3: m = (rejected, Q m > 0)
3 6
4 x + y = 4 LL(1)

If they are concurrent: mx + y = 0 LL(2)
2 x 3my = 4LL(3)

4 4m
Solve (1), (2) gives: x = ;y =
4m 4m
2 4 3m( 4m )
Sub. into (3): =4
4m 4m
3m2 + m 2 = 0
(m + 1)(3m 2) = 0
2
m= (rejected 1, Q m > 0)
3
2
Minimum positive m =
3
I4.3 Given that R, x, y, z are integers and R > x > y > z. If R, x, y, z satisfy the equation
495Q
2R + 2x + 2y + 2z = , find the value of R.
16
495 23 165 5 1 1
2R + 2x + 2y + 2z = = = 20 + = 24 + 22 + + 3
16 8 8 2 2
R=4
I4.4 In Figure 1, Q is the interior point of ABC. Three straight lines passing through Q are
parallel to the sides of the triangle such that FE // AB, GK // AC and HJ // BC. Given that the
areas of KQE, JFQ and QGH are R, 9 and 49 respectively. If the area of ABC is S, find
the value of S.
It is easy to show that all triangles are similar.
By the ratio of areas of similar triangles,
S KQE : S JFQ : S QGH = (QE)2 : (FQ)2 : (GH)2
4 : 9 : 49 = (QE)2 : (FQ)2 : (GH)2
QE : FQ : GH = 2 : 3 : 7
Let QE = 2t, FQ = 3t, GH = 7t
AFQG and BEQH are parallelograms.
AG = 3t, BH = 2t (opp. sides of //-gram)
AB = 3t + 7t + 2t = 12t
2
SABC = 4
12
= 144 = S
2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that n and k are natural numbers and 1 < k < n. If
(1 + 2 + 3 + L + n ) k = 10 and
n 1
n + k = a, find the value of a.
n(n + 1)
k = 10n 10 n2 19n + 2(10 k) = 0
2
= 281 + 8k, n is an integer is a perfect square.
281 + 8k = 289, 361, 441, ... k = 1, 10, 20, ... Given 1 < k < n, k = 10, 20, ...
when k = 10, n = 19; a = n + k = 29; when k = 20, n = 20 rejected.
G1.2 Given that (x 1)2 + y2 = 4, where x and y are real numbers. If the maximum value of 2x + y2
is b, find the value of b.
2x + y2 = 2x + 4 (x 1)2
= x2 + 2x 1 + 2x + 4
= x2 + 4x + 3
= (x2 4x + 4) + 7
= (x 2)2 + 7 7 = b
G1.3 In Figure 1, ABC is an isosceles triangle and
AB = AC. Suppose the angle bisector of B meets
AC at D and BC = BD + AD. Let A = c, find the
value of c.
Let AB = n = AC; AD = q, BD = p, CD = n q
ABD = x = CBD; ACB = 2x.
Let E be a point on BC such that BE = p, EC = q
Apply sine formula on ABD and BCD. A
n q p+q nq c q
= ; =
sin ADB sin x sin BDC sin x n D
p
Q sin ADB = sin BDC n-q
Dividing the above two equations x
x 2x
n q B E C
= p+q
p+q nq
AB EC
= and ABC = ECD = 2x
BC CD
ABC ~ ECD (2 sides proportional, included angle)
CDE = 2x (corr. s, ~ s)
BED = 4x (ext. of CDE)
BDE = 4x (BD = BE = p, base s, isos. )
ADB = 3x (ext. of BCD)
2x + 3x + 4x = 180 (adj. s on st. line ADC)
x = 20
c = 180 4x = 100 (s sum of ABC)
Method 2 A
Claim c > 90 c q
Proof: Otherwise, either c < 90 or c = 90
If c < 90, then locate a point E on BC so that BE = n n D
ABD EBD (S.A.S.) p
DE = q (corr. sides s) n-q
x q q
DEB = c (corr. s s) x 2x
Locate a point F on BC so that DF = q B n F E C
DEF is isosceles p q
DFE = c (base s isos. ) (1)

ABD = x = CBD, ACB = 2x (2)
Consider ABC and FCD
BAC = c = CFD (by (1))
ABC = 2x = FCD (by (2))
ABC ~ FCD (equiangular)
CF : FD = BA : AC (cor. sides, ~s)
CF : FD = 1 : 1 (QABC is isosceles)
CF = FD = q
BF = BC CF = (p + q) q = p
Q BF = p = BD
BDF is isosceles
BFD = BDF (base s isos. )
180 o x
= (s sum of )
2
< 90
180 = BFD + EFD < 90 + 90 = 180, which is a contradiction
If c = 90, we use the same working steps as above, with E = F.
BE = n = BF = p
BDF is isosceles
180 o x
c = 90 = BFD = < 90, which is a contradiction
2
Conclusion: c > 90 A
Locate a point F on BC so that BF = n
ABD FBD (S.A.S.) q
DF = q (corr. sides s) n c D
DFB = c (corr. s s) p
DFC = 180 c < 90 (adj. s on st. line) n-q
Locate a point E on FC so that DE = q
x q q
x 2x
DEF is isosceles B n F E C
DEF = 180 c (base s isos. s) p q
DEC = c (adj. s on st. line) (3)
ABD = x = CBD; ACB = 2x (4)
Consider ABC and ECD
BAC = c = CED (by (3))
ABC = 2x = ECD (by (4))
ABC ~ ECD (equiangular)
CE : ED = BA : AC (cor. sides, ~s)
CE : ED = 1 : 1 (QABC is isosceles)
CE = ED = q
BE = BC CE = (p + q) q = p
Q BE = p = BD
BDE is isosceles
BED = BDE = 180 c (base s isos. )
In BDE, x + 2(180 c)= 180 (s sum of ) x = 2c 180 (5)
In ABC, c + 4x = 180 (s sum of ) (6)
Sub. (5) into (6), c + 4(2c 180) = 180
c = 100
G1.4 Given that the sum of two prime numbers is 105. If the product of these prime numbers is d,
2 is the only prime number which is an even integer.
The sum of two prime number is 105, which is odd
One prime is odd and the other prime is even
One prime is odd and the other prime is 2
One prime is 103 and the other prime is 2
d = 2103 = 206
Group Event 2
G2.1 Given that the equation ax(x + 1) + bx(x + 2) + c(x + 1)(x + 2) = 0 has roots 1 and 2.
If a + b + c = 2, find the value of a.
Expand and rearrange the terms in descending orders of x:
(a + b + c)x2 + (a + 2b + 3c)x + 2c = 0
2x2 + (a + b + c + b + 2c)x + 2c = 0
2x2 + (b + 2c + 2)x + 2c = 0
It is identical to 2(x 1)(x 2) = 0
b + 2c + 2 = 6; 2c = 4
Solving these equations give c = 2, b = 12, a = 12
x+ y
G2.2 Given that 48x = 2 and 48y = 3. If 8 1 x y = b, find the value of b.

Take logarithms on the two given equations:
x log 48 = log 2, y log 48 = log 3
log 2 log 3
x= ; y=
log 48 log 48
log 48 + log 48
log 2 log 3
x+ y
=
1 x y 1 log 48 log 48
log 2 log 3
log 2 + log 3
=
log 48 log 2 log 3
x+ y
log 6
= b = 8 1 x y
log 8
x+ y
x+ y
log b = log 8 1 x y = log 8
1 x y
log 6
= log 8 = log 6 b = 6
log 8
G2.3 In Figure 1, the square PQRS is inscribed in
ABC. The areas of APQ, PBS and QRC
are 4, 4 and 12 respectively. If the area of the
square is c, find the value of c.
Let BC = a, PS = x, the altitude from A onto
BC = h.
1 8
Area of BPS = x BS = 4 BS =
2 x
1 24
Area of CQR = x CR = 12 CR =
2 x
8 24 32
BC = BS + SR + RC = + x + = x + ..........(1)
x x x
Area of APQ = x(h x ) =4 h = + x ...........(2)
1 8
2 x
1
Area of ABC = h BC = 4 + 4 + 12 + x2 = 20 + x2 ...............(3)
2
18 32
Sub. (1) and (2) into (3): + x x + = 20 + x2
2 x x
2 2 2 4
(8 + x )(x + 32) = 40x + 2x
x4 + 40x2 + 256 = 40x2 + 2x4
x4 = 256
c = area of the square = x2 = 16
4 7
G2.4 In ABC, cos A = and cos B = . If cos C = d, find the value of d.
5 25
3 24
sin A = , sin B =
5 25
cos C = cos(180 A B) = cos(A + B) = cos A cos B + sin A sin B
4 7 3 24 44
= + =
5 25 5 25 125
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let f be a function such that f(1) = 1 and for any integers m and n, f(m + n) = f(m) + f(n) + mn.
f (2003)
If a = , find the value of a.
6
f(n+1) = f(n) + n + 1 = f(n1) + n + n + 1 = f(n2) + n1 + n + n+1 == 1 + 2 + + n + n+1
n(n + 1)
f(n) =1 + 2 + + n =
2
f (2003) 2004 2003
= = 334501
6 12
3
3
1
12 x2 + x 2 3
G3.2 Suppose x + x 2
= 3, b = 2 , find the value of b.
x + x 2 2
(x 1
2
+x
12
) =9
2
(
x + x 1 = 7 x + x 1 )
2
= 49 x 2 + x 2 = 47
(x 1
2
+x
12
)(x + x ) = 3 7 x
1
3
2
+x
32 1
+ x2 + x
12 3
= 21 x 2 + x
32
=18
3
3
x + x 3 18 3 1
2 2
b= 2 = =
x + x 2 2 47 2 3
n
G3.3 Given that f(n) = sin , where n is an integer. If c = f(1) + f(2) + + f(2003), find the value
4
of c.
f(1) + f(2) + f(3) + f(4) + f(5) + f(6) + f(7) + f(8)
1 1 1 1
= +1+ +0 1 +0=0
2 2 2 2
and the function repeats for every multiples of 8.
1 1
c = f(2001) + f(2002) + f(2003) = +1+ =1+ 2
2 2
2 x + 1, when x < 1
G3.4 Given that f(x) = 2 . If d is the maximum integral solution of f(x) = 3, find
x 2 x, when x 1
the value of d.
When x 1, f(x) = 3 x2 2x = 3 x2 2x 3 = 0 x = 3 or 1 (rejected)
When x < 1, 2x + 1 = 3 2x = 2 x = 1
d=3
Group Event 4
G4.1 In Figure 1, AE and AD are two straight lines and E
AB = BC = CD = DE = EF = FG = GA. C
If DAE = , find the value of .
AFG = = ACB (base s isos. ) G
CBD = 2 = FGE (ext. of )
FEG = 2 = BDC (base s isos. )
DFE = 3 = DCE (ext. of ) A B F D
ADE = 3 = AED (base s isos. )
+ 3 + 3 = 180 (s sum of )
180
=
7
G4.2 Suppose P(x) = a0 + a1x + a2x2 + + a8x8 is a polynomial of degree 8 with real coefficients
1
a0, a1, , a8. If P(k) = when k = 1, 2, , 9, and b = P(10), find the value of b.
k
1
P(k) = , for k = 1, 2, , 9.
k
Let F(x) = x P(x) 1, then F(k) = k P(k) 1 = 0, for k = 1, 2, , 9.
F(x) is a polynomial of degree 9 and the roots are 1, 2, , 9.
F(x) = x P(x) 1 = c(x 1)(x 2) (x 9)
c( x 1)( x 2 )L( x 9 ) + 1
P(x) = , which is a polynomial of degree 8.
x
Compare the constant term of c(x 1)(x 2) (x 9) + 1 = 0 :
c9! + 1 = 0
1
c = P(x) =
(x 1)(x 2)L(x 9) + 9!
9! 9! x
9!+9! 1
P(10) = =
9!10 5
G4.3 Given two positive integers x and y, xy (x + y) = HCF(x, y) + LCM(x, y), where HCF(x, y)
and LCM(x, y) are respectively the greatest common divisor and the least common multiple of
x and y. If c is the maximum possible value of x + y, find c.
Without loss of generality assume x y.
Let the H.C.F. of x and y be m and x = ma, y = mb where the H.C.F. of a, b is 1.
L.C.M. of x and y = mab. a b.
xy (x + y) = HCF + LCM m2ab m(a + b) = m + mab
ab (m 1) = a + b + 1
1 1 1
m1= + +
a b ab
1 1 1
1m1= + + 3
a b ab
m = 2, 3 or 4
1 1 1
when m = 2, + + = 1 a + b + 1 = ab ab a b 1 = 0
a b ab
ab a b + 1 = 2
(a 1)(b 1) = 2
a = 3, b = 2, m = 2, x = 6, y = 4, c = x + y = 10
1 1 1
When m = 3, + + = 2 a + b + 1 = 2ab 2ab a b 1 = 0
a b ab
4ab 2a 2b + 1 = 3
(2a 1)(2b 1) = 3
a = 2, b = 1, m = 3, x = 6, y = 3, c = x + y = 9
1 1 1
When m = 4, + + = 3 a + b + 1 = 3ab 3ab a b 1 = 0
a b ab
9ab 3a 3b + 1 = 4
(3a 1)(3b 1) = 4
a = 1, b = 1, m = 4, x = 4, y = 4, c = x + y = 8
Maximum c = 10
G4.4 In Figure 2, ABC is an equilateral triangle, points M and N
are the midpoints of sides AB and AC respectively, and F is
the intersection of the line MN with the circle ABC.
MF
If d = , find the value of d.
MN
Let O be the centre, join AO.
Suppose MN intersects AO at H.
Produce FNM to meet the circle at E.
Then it is easy to show that:
MN // BC (mid-point theorem)
AMO ANO (SSS)
AMH ANH (SAS) A
AO MN and MH = HN ( s)
EH = HF ( from centre bisect chords) a
Let EM = t, MN = a, NF = p. M H N
t = EH MH = HF HN = p E a F
t p
By intersecting chords theorem, a
O
AN NC = FN NE
a2 = p(p + a) B C
2a
p2 + ap a2 = 0
2
p p
+ 1 = 0
a a
p 1+ 5 1 5
= or (rejected)
a 2 2
MF a + p
d= =
MN a
1+ 5
=1+
2
1+ 5
=
2
5
1 2 180 3 8 4 93324 5 7.5
01-02 42
Individual 2
6 120 7 8 3 9 4.5 10 23
3
1 360 2 221 3 18 4 43 5 7
01-02
9
Group 6 65 7 8 48 9 28 10 8
20
Individual Events
I1 There are 9 cards, numbered from 1 to 9, in a bag. If 3 cards are drawn together at random,
find the probability that all are odd. (Express your answer in the simplest fraction.)
5 4 3 5
P(all are odd) = =
9 8 7 42
I2 Given a3 = 150b and a, b are positive integers, find the least value of b.
150 = 2352
For the least value of b, a3 = 233353
b = 22325 = 180
a b
I3 Suppose cos 15 = and a, b are natural numbers. If a + b = y, find the value of y.
4
cos 15 = cos (60 45)
= cos 60 cos 45 + sin 60 sin 45
1 2 3 2 2 6
=
2 2 2 2 4
y=a+b=2+6=8
I4 Each of the digits 2, 3, 4, 5 can be used once and once only in writing a four-digit number.
Find the sum of all such numbers.
A number starting with 2 may be 2345, 2354, 2435, 2453, 2534, 2543. So there are 6
numbers starting with 2. Similarly, there are 6 numbers starting with 3, 6 numbers starting
with 4, 6 numbers starting with 5.
The sum of all possible thousands-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 1000 = 84000
Similarly the sum of all possible hundreds-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 100 = 8400,
the sum of all possible tens-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 100 = 840,
the sum of all possible units-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 100 = 84.
The sum of all possible numbers are: 84000 + 8400 + 840 + 84 = 93324
I5 In ABC, DE // BC, FE // DC, AF = 2, FD = 3 and A
DB = X. Find the value of X.

AE : EC = 2 : 3 (theorem of eq. ratio)
AD : DB = 2 : 3 (theorem of eq. ratio) F
DB = 2 3 = 7.5
3
E
2 D
C
B
I6 If the lengths of the sides of a cyclic quadrilateral are 9, 10 C

D
10, 10 and 21 respectively, find the area of the cyclic
quadrilateral. (Reference: 2014 HI5) 10
9
Let AB = 21, BC = 10 = CD, DA = 9, join AC.
AC2 = 212 + 102 22110 cos B ...............(1)
A B
AC2 = 92 + 102 2910 cos D ...................(2) 21
(1) = (2): 541 420 cos B = 181 180 cos D .......(3)
cos D = cos B
(3): (420 + 180) cos B = 541 181
3
cos B =
5
2
3 4
sin B = sin D = 1
5 5
Area of the cyclic quadrilateral = area of ABC + area of ACD
1 4 1 4
= 21 10 9 10
2 5 2 5
1 4
= 30 10
2 5
= 120
I7 If
a b c d 3 , find the value of a c b d .
b c d a a b c d
Reference: 2006 HG6, 2009 FI3.3, 2014 HG7
a b c d 3 ............(1)
b c d a
ac bc ad + bd = 3bd 3cd 3ab + 3ac
3ab bc ad + 3cd = 2ac + 2bd
ab bc ad + cd = 2ac 2ab 2cd + 2bd ...........(2)
a c b d = ab bc ad cd = 2ac ab cd bd by (2)
a b c d ac bc ad bd ac bc ad bd
2b c d a 2
= = by (1)
a b c d 3
I8 When the expression x3 + kx2 + 3 is divided by x + 3, the remainder is 2 less than when
divided by (x + 1). Find the value of k.
Let f(x) = x3 + kx2 + 3
f (1) f (3) = 2
1 + k + 3 (27 + 9k + 3) = 2
k=3
I9 Given that the perimeter of a sector of a circle is 18. When the radius is r, the area of the
sector attains the maximum value, find the value of r.
Let be the angle (in radians) subtended at centre, A be the area of the sector.
2r r 18

1 2
A 2 r
18 2r
r

A 1 r 2
2
1 2 18 2r
A r
2 r
= r(9 r)
= (r 4.5)2 + 4.52
When the area is a maximum, r = 4.5
1 1
I10 Given f x x 2 2 , find the value of f(5).
x x
2
1 1 1
f x x2 2 + 2 2 = x 2
x x x
f(x) = x 2
2
f(5) = 23
Group Events
G1 A bag of sweets is distributed to three persons A, B and C. The numbers of sweets obtained by
A, B and C are in the ratios of 5 : 4 : 3 respectively. If the sweets are re-distributed to A, B, C
according to the ratios 7 : 6 : 5 respectively, then one of them would get 40 more sweets than
his original number. Find the original number of sweets obtained by this person.
3 9 5 10
5 + 4 + 3 = 12; 7 + 6 + 5 = 18; , ; C would get more.
12 36 18 36
Let the original number of sweets be x.
10 9
x 40
36 36
x = 1440
3
C originally obtained 1440 = 360 sweets.
12
G2 Given that a, b, c are three consecutive odd numbers and b3 = 3375, find the value of ac.
b3 = 3375 = 3353
b = 15
a=b2
c=b+2
ac = (b 2)(b + 2)
= b2 4
= 225 4 = 221
G3 Let p be the area of the polygon formed by the
inequality |x| + |y| 3 in the Cartesian plane. Find the
value of p. 2
The graph is shown on the right. x - y = -3 x+y=3
The polygon formed by the inequality is the shaded
region.
1
p = shaded area = 4 32 = 18
2
x + y = -3 x-y=3
-2
G4 Find the remainder of 72003 100. (Reference: 1989 HG6)

The question is equivalent to find the last 2 digits of 72003.
71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401; the last 2 digits repeats for every multiples of 4.
72003 = 74500+3, the last 2 digits is 43.
G5 If real numbers x, y satisfy the equation x2 + y2 + 3xy = 35, find the maximum value of xy.
35 = x2 2xy + y2 + 5xy = (x y)2 + 5xy 5xy
7 xy, equality holds when x = y.
The maximum value of xy = 7.
A
G6 In figure 1, points A, B, C, D, E are on a circle with A

centre at O.
Given DEO = 45, AOE = 100, ABO = 50, B
BOC = 40, and ODC = x, find the value of x.
50
AOB = 180 250 = 80 (s sum of )
DOE = 180 245 = 90 (s sum of ) O
100 40
COD = 360 40 80 100 90 (s at a pt.)
= 50 C
x = (180 50) 2 = 65 (s sum of ) E 45
x = 65
x
G7 20 balls are put into 2 bags with 10 balls in each bag. The balls in each bag are labeled
numbers 1 to 10, all balls in one bag are white and all balls in the other bag are black. If one
ball is drawn from each of two bags, find the probability that the number of the white ball is
greater than that of the black ball.
Reference: 1989 HI11
Let the number shown on the white ball drawn be x, and the number shown on the black ball
drawn be y. To find P(x > y).
By symmetry, P(x > y) = P(x < y)
Further, P(x > y) + P(x > y) + P(x = y) = 1
1 1
2P(x > y) + 10 =1
10 10
9
P(x > y) =
20
G8 In figure 2, PQ, PO1, O1Q are diameters
of semi-circles C1, C2, C3 with centres at C1
C4
O1, O2, O3 respectively, and the circle C4
touches C1, C2, and C3 . If PQ = 24, find
the area of circle C4. (Take = 3). C2 C3
O1O2 = O1O3 = 6
Let the centre of C4 be O4, the radius = r.
O4O1 PQ
O3O4 = r + 6; O1O4 = 12 r P O2 O1 O3 Q
(12 r)2 + 62 = (r + 6)2 (Pythagoras Theorem on O1O3O4)

144 24r + r2 + 36 = r2 + 12r + 36
r=4
Area of C4 = (42) = 48
G9 Given that a and b are positive integers satisfying the equation ab a b = 12, find the value
of ab.
Reference: 1987 FG10.4, 2012 FI4.2
ab a b + 1 = 13
(a 1)(b 1) = 13
a 1 = 13, b 1 = 1
a = 14, b = 2
ab = 28
1
G10 Given that A is a right angle in triangle ABC, sin 2 C cos 2 C , AB 40 and BC = x,
4
1
sin 2 C cos 2 C
4
1
sin2C (1 sin2 C) =
4
5
sin C =
8
B + C = 90
5 40
cos B = sin C =
8 x
x=8
Individual Events
99
I1 P 40 I2 P I3 P 12 I4 P 4
100
Q 72 Q 1 Q 1 Q 8
R 648 R 3 R 615 R 4
1
S 40.5 S S 60 S 10
12
Group Events
G1 a 21 G2 a 24 G3 a 2005 G4 a 4032
b 2.5 b 52 b 2 b 2
c 19 c 2005003 c 649 c 1
d 300 d 3 d 8 d 2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 In the following figure, ABCD is a square of length
10 cm. AEB, FED and FBC are straight lines. The area of A D
AED is larger than that of FEB by 10 cm . If the area
2
of DFB is P cm2, find the value of P.

Let the area of BDE be x.
Then area of AED + x (area of BEF + x) = 10 E
area of ABD area of BDF = 10
1 F
1010 area of BDF = 10 B C
2
area of BDF = 40
Method 2
Area of ADE area of BFE = 10 (given)
Area of ADE + area of AEF area of BFE area of AEF = 10
Area of ADF area of AFB = 10
1
10 10 area of DFB = 10 Area of DFB = 50 10 = 40
2
I1.2 Workman A needs 90 days to finish a task independently while workman B needs Q days for
the same task. If they only need P days to finish the task when working together, find the
value of Q.
1 1 1

90 Q 40
Q = 72
I1.3 In the following figure, ABCD, the area of trapezium ABCD is D
R cm . Given that the areas of ABE and CDE are Q cm and A
2 2
4Q cm2 respectively, find the value of R.

Reference: 1993 HI2, 1997 HG3, 2000 FI2.2, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
E
It is easy to show that ABE ~ CDE (equiangular)
Q : 4Q = (AB)2 : (CD)2 AB : CD = 1 : 2
B
AE : EC = AE : EC = BE : ED = 1 : 2 (ratio of sides, ~ 's)
SAEB : SAED = BE : ED = 1 : 2 (the 2 s have the same heights) C
SAED = 2Q
SAEB : SBEC = AE :EC = 1:2 (the 2 s have the same heights)
SBEC = 2Q
SABCD = Q + 4Q + 2Q + 2Q = 9Q = 648
R = 648
I1.4 In the following figure, O is the centre of the circle, HJ and IK are
diameters and HKI = S. J
K
1
Given that HKI + HOI + HJI = R, find the value of S.
4
S
1
S+2S+S = 648 O
4
4S=162 ( at centre = 2 at ce)
S = 40.5
H I
Individual Event 2
1 1 1 1
I2.1 Given that P = , find the value of P.
1 2 2 3 3 4 99 100
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
P =1
2 2 3 3 4 99 100
1 99
= 1 =
100 100
99 99 2 99 3
I2.2 Given that 99Q = P (1 + + + +), find the value of Q.
100 100 2 100 3
99 99 99 2 99 3
99Q = (1 + + + +)
100 100 100 2 100 3
99 1
= 99
100 1 10099
Q=1
2 x 2 2 Rx R
I2.3 Given that x and R are real numbers and Q for all x, find the maximum
4x2 6x 3
value of R.
4x2 + 6x + 3 = (2x + 1.5)2 + 0.75 > 0
2 x 2 2 Rx R
1
4x2 6x 3
2x2 + 2Rx + R 4x2 + 6x + 3
2x2 + 2(3 R)x + 3 R 0
0
(3 R)2 2(3 R) 0
(3 R)(1 R) 0
1R3
The maximum value of R = 3
I2.4 Given that S = log144 R 2 + log144 2 R R , find the value of S.
1
log 2 16 log 3 2 log 2 log 3 log12 log12 1
S= 3 2

log144 log144 6 log144 6 log12 12 log12 12
Method 2
S = log144 R 2 + log144 2 R R
= log144( 3 2 6 3 )
= log144( 6 12 )
1
= log144( 12 144 ) =
12
Individual Event 3
I3.1 A rectangular piece of paper is folded into the A
1
following figure. If the area of ABC is
3 B
of the area of the original rectangular piece of P cm
paper, find the value of P. 4 cm
BC = P 4, AC = 10, ACB = 90 C
P 4 10 1 P 10
2 3 10 cm
P = 12
P x
I3.2 If Q is the positive integral solution of the equation (4 + 4x) 35(2x + 2x) + 62 = 0, find
2
the value of Q.
Let t = 2x + 2x, then t2 = 4x + 4x + 2
4x + 4x = t2 2
The equation becomes 6(t2 2) 35t + 62 = 0
6t2 35t + 50 = 0
(2t 5)(3t 10) = 0
5 10
t = or
2 3
5 10
2x + 2x = or 2x + 2x =
2 3
1 5 1 10
2x x or 2 x x
2 2 2 3
2(2 ) + 2 = 5(2 ) or 3(2 ) + 3 = 10(2x)
x 2 x x 2
2(2x)2 5(2x) + 2 = 0 or 3(2x)2 10(2x) + 3 = 0

(22x 1)(2x 2) = 0 or (32x 1)(2x 3) = 0
1 1
2x = , 2, or 3
2 3
For positive integral solution x = 1; Q = 1
I3.3 Let [a] be the largest integer not greater than a. For example, [2.5] = 2.
If R = [ 1 ] + [ 2 ] + + [ 99Q ], find the value of R.
R = [ 1 ] + [ 2 ] + + [ 99 ] = 1 1 1 2

2 3

3 9

9
5 times 7 times 19 times
R = 31 + 52 + 73 + + 199
R = (21+1)1 + (22+1)2+(23+1)3 + + (29+1)9
R = 212 + 1 + 222 + 2 + 232 + 3 + + 292 + 9
R = 2(12 + 22 + 32 + + 92) + (1 + 2 + 3 + + 9)
R = 2 99 12 9 1
1 1 99 = 31019 + 45 = 570 + 45 = 615
6 2
I3.4 In a convex polygon, other than the interior angle A, the sum of all the remaining interior
angles is equal to 4R. If A = S, find the value of S.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1990 FG10.3-4, 1992 HG3, 2013 HI6
4615 + S = 180(n 2)
S = 180(n 2) 2460
The polygon is convex
S < 180. S = 180(14) 2460 = 60
Individual Event 4
5 1
I4.1 Given that f (x) = (x2 + x 2)2002 + 3 and f = P, find the value of P.
2 2
5 1
x=
2 2
2x = 5 1
(2x + 1) = 5
(2x + 1)2 = 5
4x2 + 4x 4 = 0
x2 + x = 1
f (x) = (x2 + x 2)2002 + 3 = (1 2)2002 + 3 = 1 + 3 = 4
I4.2 In the following figure, ABCD is a rectangle. E and F are A
D
points on AB and BC respectively. The areas of triangles
P
AED, EBF and FCD are P, 3 and 5 respectively. If the
E
area of EFD is Q, find the value of Q.
Let AE = x, CF = y, AD = b, CD = a. 5
3
Then BE = a x, BF = b y
Given the area of ADE = 4 bx = 8 ..(1) B F C
the area of CDF = 5 ay = 10.(2)
The area of BEF = 3 (a x)(b y) = 6
ab bx ay + xy = 6 ..(3)
Sub. (1), (2) into (3) ab 8 10 + xy = 6
80
Sub. (1), (2) into the equation again: ab 18 6
ab
Solving for ab, ab = 20 or 4 (rejected)
The area of DEF = 20 3 4 5 = 8
Q=8
I4.3 It is given that x and y are positive integers. If the number of solutions (x, y) of the inequality
x2 + y2 Q is R, find the value of R. (Reference: 2007 FG1.2)
x2 + y2 8
(x, y) = (1, 1), (1, 2), (2, 1), (2, 2)
R=4
I4.4 It is given that and are roots of the equation x2 ax + a R = 0, where a is real.
If the minimum value of ( + 1)2 + ( + 1)2 is S, find the value of S.
x2 ax + a 4 = 0; + = a, = a 4
(+1)2 + (+1)2 = 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 1
= ( + )2 2 + 2( + ) + 2
= a2 2(a 4) + 2a + 2 = a2 + 10 10
The minimum value is S = 10.
Group Event 1
G1.1 Assume that the curve x2 + 3y2 = 12 and the straight line mx + y = 16 intersect at only one
point. If a = m2, find the value of a.
Sub. y = 16 mx into x2 + 3y2 = 12
x2 + 3(16 mx)2 = 12
x2 + 3(256 32mx + m2x2) = 12
(1 + 3m2)x2 96mx + 756 = 0
The straight line is a tangent = (96m)2 4(1 + 3m2)756 = 0
576m2 189(1 + 3m2) = 0
64m2 21(1 + 3m2) = 0
m2 = 21
a = 21
G1.2 It is given that x + y = 1 and x2 + y2 = 2. If x3 + y3 = b, find the value of b.
(x + y)2 = 1 x2 + y2 + 2xy = 1
2 + 2xy = 1
1
xy =
2
3 3
b=x +y
= (x + y)(x2 + y2 xy)
1 5
= 1(2 + ) =
2 2
G1.3 In the following figure, AC = AD = AE= ED =DB A
and BEC = c. Given that BDC = 26 and
ADB = 46, find the value of c.
B
ADE is an equilateral triangle.
DAE = ADE = AED = 60 E
BD = DE and BDE = 46 + 60 = 106
BED = (180 106)2 = 37 (s sum of )
AEB = 60 37 = 23 C
ADC = 26 + 46 = 72 D
AC = AD and ADC = 72 = ACD (base , isos. )
CAD = 180 722 = 36 (s sum of )
AC = AE and CAE = 36 + 60 = 96
AEC = (180 96)2 = 42 (s sum of )
CED = 60 42 = 18
BCE = 60 18 23 = 19
c = 19
G1.4 It is given that 4 cos4 + 5 sin2 4 = 0, where 0 < < 360. If the maximum value of is
d, find the value of d.
4 cos4 + 5 sin2 4 = 0 4 cos4 + 5(1 cos2 ) 4 = 0 4 cos4 5 cos2 + 1 = 0
(4cos2 1)(cos2 1) = 0
1
cos2 = or 1
4
1 1
cos = , , 1 or 1.
2 2
= 60, 300, 120, 180, 240.
The maximum value of = 300
d = 300
Group Event 2
G2.1 It is given that the lengths of the sides of a triangle are 6, 8, and 10.
If the area of the triangle is a, find the value of a.
62 + 82 = 36 + 64 = 100 = 102
It is a right angled triangle.
The area of the triangle = 6 8 2 = 24
a = 24
1 1
G2.2 Given that f x x 3 3 and f (4) = b, find the value of b.
x x
1
Let y = x
x
1
y2 2 = x 2
x2
1 1 1
x3 x x 2 1 2
x
3
x x
= y(y2 3) = y3 3y
f (y) = y3 3y
b = f(4) = 43 3(4) = 52
G2.3 Given that 20022 20012 + 20002 19992 + + 42 32 + 22 12 = c, find the value of c.
Reference: 1997 HI5, 2004 HI1, 2015 FI3.2, 2015 FG4.1
c = (2002+ 2001)(2002 2001) + (2000 + 1999)(2000 1999) ++ (4+3)(43) + (2+1)(21)
c = 4003 + 3999 + + 7 + 3
4003 3
= 1001 = 2005003
2
G2.4 PQRS is a square, PTU is an isosceles triangle, and
TPU = 30. Points T and U lie on QR and RS P Q
respectively. The area of PTU is 1. If the area of PQRS is
Let PT = a = PU
1 2 T
a sin 30 1
2
a=2
PSU PQT (RHS)
Let PS = x = PQ; SU = y = QT S U R
SPU = QPT = 30 (corr. s )
3
x = PU cos 30 = 2 3
2
2
d = area of PQRS = 3 = 3
Group Event 3
2002 3 4 2002 2 6006
G3.1 If = a, find the value of a.
2002 2 2002
a=

2002 2002 2 4 2002 3
20022002 1
=
2002 12002 3
2002 1
= 2005
x
G3.2 It is given that the real numbers x and y satisfy the relation y .
2x 1
1 1
If the minimum value of 2
2 is b, find the value of b.
x y
1 2 x 1
2
1 1
2 = 2
x 2
y x x2
4x 2 4x 2
=
x2
4x 2 4x 2
Let T =
x2
2 2
Tx = 4x 4x + 2
(T 4)x2 + 4x 2 = 0
= 42 + 42(T 4) 0
2+T40
T2
The minimum value is 2
b=2
G3.3 Suppose two different numbers are chosen randomly from the 50 positive integers 1, 2, 3, ,
50, and the sum of these two numbers is not less than 50. If the number of ways of choosing
these two numbers is c, find the value of c.
Possible combinations may be: (1, 49), (1, 50),
(2, 48), (2, 49), (2, 50),
(3, 47), (3, 48), (3, 49), (3, 50),
.................................................
(24, 26), (24, 27), , (24, 50),
(25, 26), (25, 27), , (25, 50),
(26, 27), , (26, 50)
..................................
(49, 50)
Total number of combinations = (2 + 3 + + 25) + 25 + (24 + 23 + + 1)
= (1 + 2 + + 24)2 + 24 + 25
= 2524 + 49 = 649
G3.4 Given that x y = 1 + 5 , y z = 1 5 . If x2 + y2 + z2 xy yz zx = d, find the value of d.
2d = (x y)2 + (y z)2 + (z x)2 = (1 + 5 )2 + (1 5 )2 + [(z y) (x y)]2
2d = 1 + 2 5 + 5 + 1 2 5 + 5 + [1 + 5 (1 + 5 )]2 = 12 + 4 = 16
d=8
Group Event 4
G4.1 If a is the sum of all the positive factors of 2002, find the value of a.
Reference 1993 HI8, 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2005 FI4.4
2002 = 271113
The positive factors may be 2a7b11c13d, where 0 a, b, c, d 1 are integers.
The sum of all positive factors are (1 + 2)(1 + 7)(1 + 11)(1 + 13) = 381214 = 4032 = a
2 x xy 3 y
G4.2 It is given that x > 0, y > 0 and x ( x y ) 3 y ( x 5 y ) . If b = ,
x xy y
x( x y) 3 y ( x 5 y)
x + xy = 3 xy + 15y
x 2 xy 15y = 0
x 3 y
x 5 y 0
x 5 y and x = 25y
2 x xy 3 y 50 y 25 y 2 3 y 58 y
b= = = =2
x xy y 25 y 25 y 2 y 29 y
b=2
G4.3 Given that the equation | |x 2| 1| = c has only 3 integral solutions, find the value of c.
Reference: 2005 FG4.2, 2009 HG9, 2012 FG4.2
|x 2| 1 = c
|x 2| = 1c
In order that it has only 3 integral solutions
c=1
1 1 1 1
G4.4 If d is the positive real root of the equation x 2 2 2 2 2 ,
2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 2
x 2 2 2 2
2 2 2 2
1 1 1
x 2 2 2 2 4
2 2 2
1 1 1
x 2 2 2 2
2 2 2
1 1 2
2 2 x 2 2 4

11
x2 2 2
22
1 2
x 24
2
1 2
x 2
2
x2 = 4
x = 2
d = the positive real root = 2
00-01 1 2 2 33 3 17 4 47 5 4
Individual 6 147 7 3.5 8 75 9 9 10 36
60 7
1 2 36 3 10 4 8 5
00-01 11 9
Group 3
6 7 7 2 8 120 9 3 10
11
Individual Events
1 1
I1 + .
If 4a = 25b = 10, find the value of
a b
Reference: 2003FG2.2, 2004 FG4.3, 2005 HI9, 2006 FG4.3
log 4a = log 25b = log 10
a log 4 = b log 25 = 1
1 1
+ = log 4 + log 25 = log (425) = log 100 = 2
a b
Method 2
1 1
a b
4 = 10 , 25 = 10
1 1
425 = 10 a 10 b
1 1
+
102 = 100 = 10 a b
1 1
+ =2
a b
I2 In figure 1, ABC is a straight line, AB = AD,
BDC = 38, CD is a tangent to the circle ABD.
Let BCD = x, find the value of x.
BAD = BDC = 38 ( in alt. segment)
ADB = ABD (base s isosceles )
= (180 38) 2 (s sum of )
= 71
x = ABD BDC = 71 38 = 33 (ext. of )
I3 If p = 10x 4xy 5x2 y2 8, where x and y are real numbers, find the largest value of p.
p = x2 + 10x 8 (4x2 + 4xy + y2)
= 17 (x 5)2 (2x + y)2
17 = the largest value
I4 If the following three straight lines intersect at one point, find the value of c.
L1: 6x + 6y 19 = 0 (1)
L2: 18x + 12y + c = 0 (2)
L 3 : 2x + 3y 8 = 0 (3)
(1) 2(3): 2x 3 = 0 x = 1.5 (4)
5
Sub. x = 1.5 into (3): 3 + 3y 8 = 0 y =
3
5
Sub. x = 1.5, y = into (2): 27 + 20 + c = 0
3
c = 47
I5 It is known that 2 6 cos2 = 7 sin cos , find the largest value of tan .
2(sin2 + cos2 ) 6 cos2 = 7 sin cos
2 sin2 7 sin cos 4 cos2 = 0
Divide the equation by cos2 : 2 tan2 7 tan 4 = 0
(2 tan + 1)(tan 4) = 0
1
tan = or 4
2
The largest value of tan = 4
I6 The total cost for 88 tickets was $ 293 . Because the printing machine was not functioning
well, the first and the last digits of the 5-digit number were missing. If the cost for each ticket
is $P, where P is an integer, find the value of P.
Let the total cost of 88 tickets be 10000a + 2930 + b, where a, b are integers between 0 and 9.
88P = 10000a + 2930 + b
= (88113 + 56)a + (8833 + 26) + b
= 88(113a + 33) + 56a + 26 + b
56a + 26 + b = multiple of 88
One possible guess is a = 1, b = 6
P = 113 + 33 + 1 = 147
I7 If p is the positive real root of 2x3 + 7x2 29x 70 = 0, find the value of p.
Let f(x) = 2x3 + 7x2 29x 70.
f(2) = 16 + 28 + 58 70 = 0
(x + 2) is a factor
f(5) = 250 + 175 + 145 70 = 0
(x + 5) is a factor
By comparing coefficients, f(x) = (x + 2)(x + 5)(2x 7) = 0
The positive root is 3.5, p = 3.5
I8 Two persons A, B can complete a task in 30 days when they work together. If they work
together for 6 days and then A quits, B needs 40 days more in order to complete the task. If
1
the proportion of the task A can finish each day is , find the value of q.
q
Suppose B can finish the task alone in p days.
1 1 1
Then + = ............(1)
p q 30
1 1 40
6 + + = 1 ...............(2)
p q p
1 1 1
From (1): = ..........(3)
p 30 q
6 1 1
Sub. (3) into (2): + 46 = 1
q 30 q
23 40
1 =
15 q
8 40
=
15 q
q = 75
I9 Let a, b, c be three distinct constants. It is given that

a2 b2 c2 p + qx + rx 2
+ +
(a b )(a c )(a + x ) (b c )(b a )(b + x ) (c a )(c b )(c + x ) (a + x )(b + x )(c + x )
where p, q r are constants, and s = 7p + 8q + 9r, find the value of s.
Theorem If , , are three distinct roots of dx2 + ex + f = 0, then d = e = f = 0.
Proof: The quadratic equation has at most two distinct roots. If , , are three distinct roots,
then it is identically equal to 0. i.e. d = e = f = 0.
Now multiply the given equation by (a + x)(b + x)(c + x):

a 2 (b + x )(c + x ) b 2 (a + x )(c + x ) c 2 (a + x )(b + x )
+ + p + qx + rx 2
(a b )(a c ) (b c )(b a ) (c a )(c b )
Put x = a, b, c respectively.
a 2 = p qa + ra 2 a 2 (r 1) qa p = 0
2 2
b = p qb + rb b (r 1) qb p = 0
2
c 2 = p qc + rc 2 c 2 (r 1) qc p = 0

a, b and c are three distinct roots of (r 1)x2 qx p = 0
By the above theorem, p = 0, q = 0, r = 1.
s = 7p + 8q + 9r = 9
I10 In figure 2, ABEF, BCDE are two squares,

BE = 6 cm, and AE and CE are the arcs
drawn with centres F and D respectively. If
the total area of the shaded parts is S cm2,
find the value of S. (Assume = 3.)
Radii of the two quadrants = 6
The two unshaded triangles are identical,
base = height = 6 sin 45 = 3 2
Shaded area = area of 2 quadrants area of 2 unshaded s
= 2
( )
62 3 2 2
= 36
4 2

Group Events
G1 The time on the clock face is now one oclock. After p minutes, the minute hand overlaps with
the hour hand, find the minimum value of p.
In one hour, the minute hand rotated 360, the hour hand rotated 30.
So the minute hand is 330 faster than the hour hand for every hour (= every 60 minutes).
At one o'clock, the minute hand is 30 behind of the hour hand.
After p minutes, the minute hand will catch up the hour hand.
p 60
By ratio, o
=
30 330 o
60
p=
11
G2 In how many ways can 10 identical balls be distributed into 3 different boxes such that no box
is to be empty?
Reference: 2006 HI6, 2010 HI1, 2012 HI2
Align the 10 balls in a row. There are 9 gaps between the 10 balls. Put 2 sticks into two of
| |
98
2
G3 Let x = 3 5 + 3 + 5 and y = x2, find the value of y.
2
y = 3 5 + 3 + 5

=3 5 +3+ 5 + 2 9 5
= 6 + 22 = 10
4a 2 2 4 8 16
G4 If + + + + , find the value of a.
1 x 16
1 x 1+ x 1+ x 2
1+ x 4
1 + x8
4a 2 2 4 8 16
+ + + +
1 x 16
1 x 1+ x 1+ x 2
1+ x 4
1 + x8
4 4 8 16
+ + +
1 x 2
1+ x 2
1+ x 4
1 + x8
8 8 16
+ +
1 x 4
1+ x 4
1 + x8
16 16 32
+
1 x 1 + x 1 x16
8 8
a=8
G5 In figure 1, ADE is a right circular cone. Suppose the cone is
divided into two parts by a cut running parallel to the base and
1
made of the way up, the ratio of the slant surface of the small
4
cone ABC to that of the truncated base BCDE is 1 : k, find the
value of k. (Reference: 2000 FG5.3)
curved surface area of small cone : that of large cone
= 32 : 42 = 9 : 16
curved surface area of small cone : that of the frustum
7 7
= 9 : (16 9) = 9 : 7 = 1 : k=
9 9
G6 If a ten-digit number 2468m2468m is divisible by 3, find the maximum value of m.

2 + 4 + 6 + 8 + m + 2 + 4 + 6 + 8 + m = 3k
40 + 2m = 3k
2m = 2, 8 or 14
m = 1, 4, or 7
Maximum = 7
4
G7 Find the area enclosed by the x-axis and the straight
lines x 3y = 0, x + y 4 = 0.
From the figure, the vertices of the enclosed area are x + y -4 = 0
(0,0), (4, 0), (3, 1) 2
1
The area = 4 1 = 2 A(3, 1)
2 x - 3y = 0
B(4, 0)
G8 In figure 2, PQR is a triangle, S is the mid-point of PQ,

RQ = PS = SQ, and RQS = 2RPS. Let PSR = x,
Let RPS = y, RQS = 2y (given)
QRS = QSR = 90 y (s sum of isos. )
PRS = QSR SPR = 90 y y = 90 2y
PRQ = PRS +QRS = 90 2y+90y = 180 3y
Apply sine formula on PQR
PQ RQ R
=
sin PRQ sin QPR
M N
2 1
=
( )
sin 180 o 3 y o sin y o y y
y
2 sin y = 3 sin y 4 sin3 y P S Q

2
4 sin y = 1
sin y = 0.5, y = 30
x = 180 (90 y) = 120 (adj. on st. line)
Method 2 Let RPS = y, RQS = 2y (given)
Let M and N be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from S on PR and Q from RS respectively.
QSN QRN (R.H.S.)
RQN = y = SQN (corr. s 's)
PSM QSN QRN (A.A.S.)
MS = NS = NR (corr. sides 's)
MS 1
sin MRS = = ; MRS = 30, MSR = 60 (s sum of MRS)
RS 2
90 y + 60 + 90 y = 180 (adj. on st. line PSQ)
y = 30
x = PSR = 90 y + 60 = 120
G9 If x satisfies the equation |x 3| + |x 5| = 2, find the minimum value of x.

Reference: 1994 HG1, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2011 FGS.1, 2012 FG2.3
Method 1
Case 1: x 3, 3 x + 5 x = 2, x = 3
Case 2: 3 < x 5, x 3 + 5 x = 2, always true, 3 < x 5
Case 3: 5 < x, x 3 + x 5 = 2, x = 5, no solution
Combined solution: 3 x 5
The minimum value of x = 3
Method 2
2 = |x 3| + |5 x| |x 3 + 5 x| = 2
Equality holds when x 3 and 5 x
the minimum value of x = 3
G10 3 shoes are chosen randomly from 6 pairs of shoes with different models, find the probability
that exactly two out of the three shoes are of the same model.
In order that exactly two out of the three shoes are of the same model, either
1
Case 1 the first two chosen shoes are of the same model. (Probability = 1 ) or
11
10 1 1
Case 2 the last two chosen shoes are of the same model. (Probability = 1 = ) or
11 10 11
10 1 1
Case 3 the first and the 3rd chosen shoes are of the same model. (Probability = 1 = )
11 10 11
1 1 1 3
Required probability = + + =
11 11 11 11
Individual Events
I1 P 1 I2 P 12 I3 P 4 I4 P 35
Q 4 Q 14 Q 7 Q 10
R 2 R 1 R 14 R 10
S 32 S 2 S 34 S 222
Group Events
G1 a 4 G2 a 2 G3 a 3 G4 a 3840
b 1001 b 3 b 20 b 1
c 8 c 333333 c 14 c 3
d 3 d 46 d 15 d 1853
Individual Event 1
I1.1 a, b and c are the lengths of the opposite sides A, B and C of the ABC respectively.
a b
If C = 60 and + = P, find the value of P.
b+c a+c
c2 = a2 + b2 2abcos 60 = a2 + b2 ab a2 + b2 = c2 + ab
a b a (a + c ) + b(b + c )
P= + =
b+c a+c (b + c )(a + c )
a 2 + ac + b 2 + bc ab + ac + bc + c 2
P= = =1
ab + ac + bc + c 2 ab + ac + bc + c 2
I1.2 Given that f(x) = x2 + ax + b is the common factor of x3 + 4x2 + 5x + 6 and 2x3 + 7x2 + 9x + 10
If f(P) = Q, find the value of Q.
Let g(x) = x3 + 4x2 + 5x + 6; h(x) = 2x3 + 7x2 + 9x + 10
g(3) = 27 + 36 15 + 6 = 0, (x + 3) is a factor of g(x); by division, g(x) = (x + 3)(x2 + x + 2)
h(2.5)= 31.25+43.7522.5+10 = 0, (2x+5) is a factor of h(x); by division, h(x) = (2x+5)(x2+x+2)
f(x) = common factor = (x2 + x + 2)
Q = f(P) = f(1) = 1 + 1 + 2 = 4
1 1 Q a b
I1.3 Given that + = and + = R, find the value of R.
a b a+b b a
1 1 4
+ =
a b a+b
(a + b)2 = 4ab
a2 + 2ab + b2 = 4ab
a2 2ab + b2 = 0
(a b)2 = 0
a=b
a b
R= + =2
b a
a+b = R
I1.4 Given that 2 and a3 + b3 = S, find the value of S.
a + b = 12
2
a + b = 2 LL (1)
2
a + b = 12LL (2)
2
(1)2 (2): 2ab = 8

ab = 4

a + b = 2
S = a3 + b3 = (a + b)(a2 ab + b2) = 2(12 + 4) = 32
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Suppose P is an integer and 5 < P < 20. If the roots of the equation
x2 2(2P 3)x + 4P2 14P + 8 = 0 are integers, find the value of P.
= 4(2P 3)2 4(4P2 14P + 8) = m2
2
m 2 2
= 4P 12P + 9 4P + 14P 8 = 2P + 1

2
Q 5 < P < 20 11 < 2P + 1 < 41
The only odd square lying in this interval is 25
2P + 1 = 25 = 52
P = 12
I2.2 ABCD is a rectangle. AB = 3P + 4, AD = 2P + 6. A B
AE and CF are perpendiculars to the diagonal BD.
If EF = Q, find the value of Q. F
3
AB = 40, AD = 30, BD = 50, let ADB = , cos =
5
3 E
DE = AD cos = 30 = 18 = BF
5
EF = 50 18 18 = 14 D C
1
I2.3 There are less than 4Q students in a class. In a mathematics test, of the students got grade
3
1
A, of the students got grade B, half of the students got grade C, and the rest failed. Given
7
that R students failed in the mathematics test, find the value of R.
4Q = 56, let the number of students be x, then x is divisible by 2, 3 and 7.
i.e. x is divisible by 42, as x < 56, so x = 42
1 1 1
R = number of students failed in mathematics = 42 1 = 1; R = 1
3 7 2
1
I2.4 [a] represents the largest integer not greater than a. For example, 2 = 2.
3
Given that the sum of the roots of the equation [3x + R ] = 2 x +
3
is S, find the value of S.
2
Reference: 1994 HG9
3 3
[3x + 1] = 2x + 3x + 1 = 2x + + a, where 0 a < 1
2 2
1 1 3
a=x 0 x < 1 2.5 2x + < 4.5
2 2 2
3 3
Q2x + is an integer 2x + = 4 or 3
2 2
x = 0.75 or 1.25
S = 0.75 + 1.25 = 2
Individual Event 3
I3.1 ABCD is a trapezium such that ADC = BCD = 60 and
1
AB = BC = AD = CD. If this trapezium is divided into P
2
equal portions (P > 1) and each portion is similar to
trapezium ABCD itself, find the minimum value of P.
From the graph, P = 4 A B
D C
I3.2 The sum of tens and unit digits of (P + 1)2001 is Q. Find the value of Q.
52001 = 100a + 25, where a is a positive integer.
Q = 2 + 5 = 7.
I3.3 If sin 30 + sin2 30 + + sinQ 30 = 1 cosR 45, find the value of R.

1 1 1 1 1
+ 2 + 3 +L+ 7 = 1 R
2 2 2 2 2
1 1
1 7
= 1 R
2 22
R = 14
1 1
I3.4 Let and be the roots of the equation x2 8x + (R + 1) = 0. If and are the roots
2
2
of the equation 225x2 Sx + 1 = 0, find the value of S.
x2 8x + 15 = 0, = 3, = 5
1 1 1 1 34 S
+ 2= + = =
2
9 25 225 225
S = 34
Individual Event 4
2 2 1 2 2 1
I4.1 Let a 3 + b 3 = 17 , x = a + 3a 3 b 3 and y = b + 3a 3 b 3 . If P = (x + y ) 3 + (x y ) 3 , find the value of P.
1 2 2
2
2 2
P = a + 3a 3 b 3 + 3a 3 b 3 + b + a 3a 3 b 3 + 3a 3 b 3 b
2 1 1 2 3 2 1 1 2 3

3 2 3 2
= a 3 + b 3 1
1 1 3 1 3
+ a 3 b3

2 2
P = a 3 + b 3 + a 3 b 3
1 1 1 1

2 1 1 2 2 1 1 2
= a + 2a b + a + a 2a 3 b 3 + a 3
3 3 3 3 3
= 2 a 3 + a 3
2 2

= 217.5 = 35
I4.2 If a regular Q-sided polygon has P diagonals, find the value of Q.
The number of diagonals = QC2 Q = 35
Q (Q 1)
Q = 35
2
Q2 3Q 70 = 0
Q = 10
Q Q Q Q x6 + y6
I4.3 Let x = + and y = . If R = , find the value of R.
2 2 2 2 40
R=
(x )(
+ y2 x4 + y4 x2 y2
2
)
40

2 2
Q
+ Q + Q Q Q + Q + Q Q Q + Q Q Q
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

=
40
2
Q
2 2

2
Q Q + Q
Q 2 + 2
2 2 2 2

=
40
=
2
(
10 5 + 3 5
= 10
)
40
I4.4 [a] represents the largest integer not greater than a. For example, [2.5] = 2.
2001 2001 2001
If S = + + +L, find the value of S.
R R2 R3
=
2001 2001 2001
S + + +L
10 100 1000
= 200 + 20 + 2 + 0 + = 222
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that (a + b + c)2 = 3(a2 + b2 + c2) and a + b + c = 12, find the value of a.
Sub. (2) into (1), 122 = 3(a2 + b2 + c2)
a2 + b2 + c2 = 48 (3)
(a + b + c)2 = a2 + b2 + c2 + 2(ab + bc + ca)
122 = 48 + 2(ab + bc + ca)
ab + bc +ca =48
2[a2 + b2 + c2 (ab + bc + ca)] = (a b)2 + (b c)2 + (c a)2
2[48 48] = 0 = (a b)2 + (b c)2 + (c a)2
a=b=c
a + b + c = 3a = 12
a=4
12 22 1000 2
G1.2 Given that b
1 1 1
+ +L+ = 2 + +L+ , find the value of b
1 3 3 5 1999 2001 1 3 3 5 1999 2001
1 1 1 1 r2 1 1 1 1
Note that = and = +
(2r 1) (2r + 1) 2 2 r 1 2r + 1 (2r 1) (2r + 1) 4 8 2r 1 2r + 1
= 1 + + L +
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1000
+ +L+ = 1 =
1 3 3 5 1999 2001 2 3 3 5 1999 2001 2 2001 2001
12 22 1000 2
= + 1 + + + L + +
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
+ +L+ (1000 terms)
1 3 3 5 1999 2001 4 8 3 4 8 3 5 4 8 1999 2001
1000 1 1 1 1 1 1 1000 1 1
= + 1 + + L + = + 1
4 8 3 3 5 1999 2001 4 8 2001
1 250 2002
= 2501 +
1000 1 2000 250
= + = 250 + =
4 8 2001 2001 2001 2001
1000 250 2002
The given equation becomes: b = 2 b = 1001
2001 2001
G1.3 A six-digit number 1234xy is divisible by both 8 and 9. Given that x +y = c, find the value of c.
The number formed by last 3 digits must be divisible by 8 and the sum of digits must be
divisible by 9. i.e. 400 + 10x + y is divisible by 8 and 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + x + y = 9m
10x + y = 8n (1); x + y = 9m 10 (2)
(1) (2): 9x = 8n 9m + 9 + 1
n = 1 or 10
When n = 1, (1) has no solution; when n = 10, x = 8, y = 0; c = x + y = 8
G1.4 Suppose logx t = 6, logy t = 10 and logz t = 15. If logxyz t = d, find the value of d.
log t log t log t
= 6, = 10, = 15
log x log y log z
log x 1 log y 1 log z 1
= , = , =
log t 6 log t 10 log t 15
log x log y log z 1 1 1 10 1
+ + = + + = =
log t log t log t 6 10 15 30 3
log x + log y + log z 1
=
log t 3
log xyz 1
=
log t 3
log t
d= =3
log xyz
Group Event 2
x 2 4x + 5
G2.1 Given that x = 7 4 3 and = a , find the value of a.
x 2 4x + 3
Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
Reference: 1993 HI9, 2000HG1, 2007 HG3, 2009HG2
x = 7 4 3 = 4 2 12 + 3
2 2
= 4 2 4 3+ 3
= ( 4 3 )
2
= 4 3=2 3
3 = 2 x
3 = (2 x)2
x2 4x + 1 = 0
x 2 4x + 5 x 2 4x + 1 + 4
a= 2 = =2
x 4x + 3 x 2 4x + 1 + 2
G2.2 E is an interior point of the rectangle ABCD. Given that the lengths
D C
of EA, EB, EC and ED are 2, 11 , 4 and b respectively, find the
value of b. b 4
Reference: 1994 FG10.1-2, 2003 FI3.4
P, Q R, S be the foot of perpendiculars drawn from E onto AB, BC, 2 11
E
CD, DA respectively. A B
Using Pythagoras Theorem, it can be proved that
p2 + s2 = 4 ..............(1)
D R C
p2 + q2 = 11 ............(2)
q2 + r2 = 16 ............(3) b r 4
2 2 2
r + s = b .............(4) s q
2
S Q
(1) + (3) (2) (4): 0 = 4 + 16 11 b 2 p E 11
b=3 A B
P
G2.3 Given that 111111222222 = c(c + 1), find the value of c.

Reference 1996 FG7.2 111aaa = b(b + 1)
111111222222 = 111111000000 + 222222
= 1111111000000 + 2111111
= 1111111000002
111111222222 = 1111113333334 = 333333 333334
c = 333333
G2.4 Given that cos 16 = sin 14 + sin d and 0 < d < 90, find the value of d.
sin d = cos 16 sin 14
sin d = sin 74 sin 14
sin d = 2 cos 88 sin 30
sin d = cos 44 = sin 46
d = 46
Group Event 3
G3.1 Given that the solution of the equation 3 x + 1 + 3 x + 6 = 4 x 2 + 4 x + 3 is a, find the
value of a.
3x + 6 4 x 2 = 4 x + 3 3x + 1
( 3x + 6 4 x 2 ) =(
2
4 x + 3 3x + 1 )2
3x + 6 + 4 x 2 2 12 x 2 + 18 x 12 = 4 x + 3 + 3x + 1 2 12 x 2 + 13x + 3
12 x 2 + 18 x 12 = 12 x 2 + 13x + 3
12x2 + 18x 12 = 12x2 + 13x + 3
x=3
G3.2 Suppose the equation x2y x2 3y 14 = 0 has only one positive integral solution (x0, y0). If
x0 + y0 = b, find the value of b.
(y 1)x2 = 3y + 14
3 y + 14 3 y 3 + 17 17
x2 = = =3+ =3+1
y 1 y 1 y 1
y = 18, x = 2
b = 20
G3.3 ABCD is a cyclic quadrilateral. AC and BD intersect
at G. Suppose AC =16 cm, BC = CD = 8 cm,
BG = x cm and GD = y cm. If x and y are integers and
x + y = c, find the value of c.
B
As shown in the figure, let CG = t, AG = 16 t.
Let CBG = , ACB = .

x 8
Then CAB = (eq. chords eq. s) A G
Then BCG ~ ACB (equiangular) 16-t
t : 8 = 8 : 16 (ratio of sides, ~s) y t C
t=4
It is easy to see that ADG ~ BCG (equiangular)
8
(16 t) : y = x : t (ratio of sides, ~s)
(16 4)4 = xy
D
xy = 48
Assume that x and y are integers, then possible pairs
of (x, y) are (1,48), (2, 24), ...., (6, 8), ..., (48, 1).
Using triangle inequality x + t > 8 and 8 + t > x in
BCG, the only possible combinations are:
(x, y) = (6, 8) or (8, 6)
c = x + y = 14
log 0.5
1
G3.4 Given that 5 log 30
= d , find the value of d.
3
1
log 30 log 5 + log 0.5 log = log d
3
10
log (310) log +(log 2)(log 3) = log d
2
(log 3 + 1)(1 log 2) + log 2 log 3 = log d
log 3 + 1 log 3 log 2 log 2 + log 2 log 3 = log d
3 10
log d = log 3 + 1 log 2 = log
2
d = 15
Group Event 4
n
G4.1 x1 = 2001. When n > 1, x n = . Given that x1x2x3x10 = a, find the value of a.
x n 1
2
x2 = x1x2 = 2
x1
4
x4 = x3x4 = 4
x3
6
x6 = x5x6 = 6
x5
8
x8 = x7x8 = 8
x7
10
x10 = x9x10 = 10
x9
Multiply these equations gives a = x1x2x3x10 = 246810 = 32120 = 3840
G4.2 Given that the unit digit of 13 + 23 + 33 + + 20013 is b, find the value of b.
Arrange the numbers in groups of 10 in ascending order, the unit digit of sum each group is
the same (except the last number, 20013).
13 + 23 + L + 103 1 + 8 + 7 + 4 + 5 + 6 + 3 + 2 + 9 + 0 (mod 10)
5 (mod 10)
1 + 2 + L + 20003 + 20013 200(5) + 1 (mod 10)
3 3
So b = 1
G4.3 A and B ran around a circular path with constant speeds. They started from the same place and
at the same time in opposite directions. After their first meeting, B took 1 minute to go back to
the starting place. If A and B need 6 minutes and c minutes respectively to complete one
round of the path, find the value of c.
1 1 c+6
In one minute, A and B ran + = of the total distance.
6 c 6c
6c
They will meet at the first time after minutes.
c+6
6c
After 1 more minute, (i.e. total time elapsed = + 1 minutes), B retuned to the starting
c+6
point. So 1
6c
+ 1 = 1
c + 6 c
6c + c + 6 = c2 + 6c
c2 c 6 = 0
(c 3)(c + 2) = 0
c=3
G4.4 The roots of the equation x2 45x + m = 0 are prime numbers. Given that the sum of the
squares of the roots is d, find the value of d.
Let the roots be , . + = 45, = m
The sum of two prime numbers + = 45
= 2, = 43 (2 is the only even prime number)
d = 2 + 2 = 4 + 432 = 1853
170
1 2 3 3 10 4 35 5 540
99-00 891
Individual 1
6 190 7 8 428571 9 24 10 0
3
99-00 1 3 2 5 3 6 4 10 5 10
Group 6 60 7 0.93 8 421 9 12 10 0
Individual Events

I1 Let x 0.17 0.017 0.0017 ... , find the value of x . (Reference: 2009 HI1)
17 17 17 17 1
0.17 = ; 0.017 = ; 0.0017 = , It is an infinite geometric series, a = , r =
99 990 9900 99 10
17 17 17
x=
99 990 9900
17 1 1
= 1
99 10 100
17 10 170
= =
99 9 891
I2 Solve the following equation:
1 1 1 1 1 1 1

x 12 x 1x 2 x 2 x 3 x 3x 4 x 10x 11 x 11x 12 4
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

x 12 x 1 x 2 x 2 x 3 x 3 x 4 x 10 x 11 x 11 x 12 4
1 1

x 1 4
x=3
I3 Using digits 0, 1, 2, and 5, how many 3-digit numbers can be formed, which are divisible by 5?
(If no digit may be repeated.)
Possible numbers are: 105, 120, 125, 150, 205, 210, 215, 250, 510, 520.
Altogether 10 numbers.
I4 Figure 1 represents a 4 3 rectangular spiderweb. If a North D C

spider walks along the web from A to C and it always
walks either due East or due North. Find the total number A East B
of possible paths. Figure 1
D(1) C(35)
Reference: 1983 FI4.1, 1998 HG6, 2007 HG5 4 10 20
The numbers at each of the vertices of in the following
1
3 6 10 15
figure show the number of possible ways.
So the total number of ways = 35 1
2 3 4 5
A(1) 1 1 1 B(1)
I5 In Figure 2, let A+B+C+D+E+F+G = x, find A

the value of x.
Reference: 1992 HI13, 2012 FG3.2 B P V
G
In the figure, let P, Q, R, S, T, U, V be as shown.
AVP + BPQ + CQR + DRS + EST + FTU+GUV=360 Q U
(sum of ext. of polygon)
A = 180 (AVP + BPQ) (s sum of ) C
F
B = 180 (BPQ + CQR) (s sum of ) R
C = 180 (CQR + DRS) (s sum of ) T
D = 180 (DRS + EST) (s sum of ) S
E = 180 (EST + FTU) (s sum of ) D E
F = 180 (FTU + GUV) (s sum of )
G = 180 (GUV + AVP) (s sum of )
A+B+C+D+E+F+G =1807 2360
x = 540
I6 Twenty straight lines were drawn on a white paper. Among them, no two or more straight
lines are parallel; also no three or more than three straight lines are concurrent. What is the
maximum number of intersections that these 20 lines can form?
2 lines give at most 1 intersection.
3 lines give at most 3 intersections.
4 lines give at most 6 intersections. (6 = 1 + 2 + 3)
.................................................................................
1 19
20 lines give at most 1 + 2 + 3 + + 19 intersections = 19 = 190 intersections
2
I7 In a family of 2 children, given that one of them is a girl, what is the probability of having
another girl? (Assuming equal probabilities of boys and girls.)
Sample space = {(girl, boy), (girl, girl), (boy, girl)} and each outcome is equal probable.
1
P(another child is also a girl) =
3
I8 A particular 6-digit number has a unit-digit 1. Suppose this unit-digit 1 is moved to the
place of hundred thousands, while the original ten thousand-digit, thousand-digit,
hundred-digit, are moved one digit place to the right. The value of the new 6-digit number
is one-third of the value of the original 6-digit number. Find the original 6-digit number.
(Reference: 1986 FG8) Let the original number be: abcde 1 , and the new number be: 1abcde .
3 1abcde = abcde1
3(100000 + 10000a + 1000b + 100c + 10d + e) = 100000a+10000b + 1000c + 100d + 10e + 1
Compare the unit digit: e = 7 with carry digit 2 to the tens digit
Compare the tens digit: d = 5 with carry digit 1 to the hundreds digit
Compare the hundreds digit: c = 8 with carry digit 2 to the thousands digit
Compare the thousands digit: b = 2 with no carry digit to the ten-thousands digit
Compare the ten-thousands digit: a = 4 with carry digit 1 to the hundred-thousands digit
The original number is 428571
12 sin 2 48 12 sin 2 42
sin 330 tan 135 sin 2 48 sin 2 42 tan 180
12 sin 2 48 12 sin 2 42 12 sin 2 48 12 cos 2 48 12
= = =24
sin 330 tan 135 sin 2 48 sin 2 42 tan 180 1 1
1 sin 48 sin 42 0
2 2 2
2
I10 Find the shortest distance between the line 3x y 4 = 0 and the point (2, 2).
Ax 0 By 0 C 3 2 2 4
d= = =0
A B
2 2
3 2 12
Method 2 Sub. (2, 2) into 3x y 4 = 0, LHS = 32 2 4 = 0 = RHS
(2, 2) lies on the line, the shortest distance = 0
Group Events
a 5 3a 4 3a 3 a 2
G1 If a is a root of x2 + 2x + 3 = 0, find the value of .
a2 3
Reference: 1993 HI9, 2001 FG2.1, 2007 HG3, 2009 HG2
Divide (a5 + 3a4 + 3a3 a2) by (a2 + 2a + 3), quotient = a3 + a2 2a, remainder = 6a

a 5 3a 4 3a 3 a 2 a 2 2a 3 a 3 a 2 2a 6a
a2 3
=

a 2 2a 3 2 a
6a
= = 3
2a
G2 There are exactly n roots in the equation (cos2 1)(2 cos2 1) = 0, where 0 < < 360.
Find the value of n.
1 1
cos = 1, 1, or .
2 2
= 180, 45, 315, 135, 225

n=5
G3 Find the unit digit of 20042006.
41 = 4, 42 = 16, 43 = 64, 44 = 256,
So the unit digit of 20042006 is 6.
G4 Let x = |y m| + |y 10| + |y m 10|, where 0 < m < 10 and m y 10. Find the minimum
value of x.
x = y m + 10 y + 10 y + m = 20 y 20 10 = 10
The minimum = 10
G5 There are 5 balls with labels A, B, C, D, E respectively and there are 5 pockets with labels A,
B, C, D, E respectively. A ball is put into each pocket. Find the number of ways in which
exactly 3 balls have labels that match the labels on the pockets.
First choose any 3 bags out of five bags. Put the balls according to their numbers. The
remaining 2 balls must be put in the wrong order.
The number of ways is 5C3 = 10.
G6 In Figure 1, PQR is an equilateral triangle,
PT = RS; PS, QT meet at M; and QN is
perpendicular to PS at N. Let QMN = x, find
the value of x.
PT = RS (given)
QPT = 60 = PRS ( of an equilateral )
PQ = PR (side of an equilateral )
PQT RPS (SAS)
PTQ = PSR (corr. s )
R, S, M, T are concyclic (ext. = int. opp. )
QMN= x =TRS =60 (ext. , cyclic quad.)
x = 60
G7 In Figure 2, three equal circles are tangent to P C Q

each other, and inscribed in rectangle PQRS,
QR
find the value of . (Use 3 1.7 and give
SR
the answer correct to 2 decimal places)
O1
Let the radii of the circles be r.
Suppose the 3 circles touch the rectangle at A,
B and C. Join O1O2, O2O3, O1O3, O1C, O2A,
O3B as shown. Then O1O2 = O2O3 = O1O3 = 2r
O1C = O2A = O3B = r
O1O2O3 is an equilateral O2 O3
QR = O1C + O1O2 sin 60 + O2A
3
= r + 2r + r = r(2 + 3 )
2 S B
QR A R
r 2 3 2 1.7 37
SR = 4r, = = = 0.93
SR 4r 4 40
G8 The sum of two positive integers is 29, find the minimum value of the sum of their squares.
Let the two numbers be a and b.
a2 + b2 = a2 + (29 a)2 = 2a2 58a + 841 = 2(a 14.5)2 + 420.5
a and b are integers, the minimum is attained when a = 15, b = 14
The minimum value of a2 + b2 = 152 + 142 = 225 + 196 = 421
G9 Let x = 3 3 and y = 3 3 , find the value of x2(1 + y2) + y2.

x2(1 + y2) + y2 = 3 3 1 3 3 3 3
= 3 3 4 3 3 3
= 12 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 = 12
Method 2
x2(1 + y2) + y2 = (x2 + 1)(y2 + 1) 1

= 3 3 1 3 3 1 1
= 16 3 1 = 12
G10 There are nine balls in a pocket, each one having an integer label from 1 to 9. A draws a ball
randomly from the pocket and puts it back, then B draws a ball randomly from the same
pocket. Let n be the unit digit of the sum of numbers on the two balls drawn by A and B, and
P(n) be the probability of the occurrence of n. Find the value of n such that P(n) is the
maximum.
P(1) = P((2,9), (3,8), (4,7), (5,6), (6,5), (7,4), (8,3), (9,2))
P(2) = P((1,1), (3,9), (4,8), (5,7), (6,6), (7,5), (8,4), (9,3))
P(3) = P((1,2), (2,1), (4,9), (5,8), (6,7), (7,6), (8,5), (9,4))
P(4) = P((1,3), (2,2), (3,1), (5,9), (6,8), (7,7), (8,6), (9,5))
P(5) = P((1,4), (2,3), (3,2), (4,1), (6,9), (7,8), (8,7), (9,6))
P(6) = P((1,5), (2,4), (3,3), (4,2), (5,1), (7,9), (8,8), (9,7))
P(7) = P((1,6), (2,5), (3,4), (4,3), (5,2), (6,1), (8,9), (9,8))
P(8) = P((1,7), (2,6), (3,5), (4,4), (5,3), (6,2), (7,1), (9,9))
P(9) = P((1,8), (2,7), (3,6), (4,5), (5,4), (6,3), (7,2), (8,1))
P(0) = P((1,9), (2,8), (3,7), (4,6), (5,5), (6,4), (7,3), (8,2), (9,1))
When n = 0, P(n) is a maximum.
Individual Events
SI P 6 I1 P 25 I2 P 16 I3 P 1 I4 P 2 I5 P 2
Q 7 Q 8 Q 81 Q 2 Q 12 Q 1
R 2 R 72 R 1 R 3996 R 12 R 1
S 9902 S 6 S 333332 S 666 S 2 S 0
Group Events
SG a 1 G1 a 243 G2 a 9025 G3 a 3994001 G4 a 504 G5 a 729000
b 15 b 25 b 9 b 5 b 3 b 12
c 80 c 4 c 6 c 3 c 60 c 26
d 1 d 3 d 40 d 38 d 48 d 3
Sample Individual Event (1999 Individual Event 3)
SI.1 For all integers m and n, m n is defined as m n = mn + nm. If 2 P = 100, find the value
of P.
2P + P2 = 100
64 + 36 = 26 + 62 = 100, P = 6
SI.2 If 3 13Q + 6 P + 1 3 13Q 6 P 1 = 3 2 , where Q > 0, find the value of Q.
( 13Q + 37
3 3 13Q 37 = 2)
3
13Q + 37 3 3 (13Q + 37 ) 13Q 37 +3 3 (13Q 37 ) 13Q + 37 (13Q 37) = 2

23 23
24 = 3 (13Q ) 37 2 3 13Q + 37 (13Q )2 37 2 3 13Q 37

2 3
24 = 3 (13Q ) 37 2 (Q 3 13Q + 37 3 13Q 37 = 3 2 )

2 3
2;
13824 = [(13Q)2 1369] 2
6912 + 1369 = 169 Q2
Q2 = 49 Q = 7
Method 2 3 13b + 37 3 13b 37 = 3 2 ,
We look for the difference of multiples of 3 2
3
8 2 3 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 16, 13b 37 = 2, no solution
3
27 2 3 8 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 54, 13b 37 = 16, no solution
3
64 2 3 27 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 128, 13b 37 = 54 b = 7
SI.3 In figure 1, AB = AC and KL = LM. If LC = Q 6 cm and A
KB = R cm, find the value of R.
Draw LN // AB on BM.
BN = NM intercept theorem K
L
LNC = ABC = LCN (corr. s, AB // LN, base s, isos. )
LN = LC = Q 6 cm = 1 cm (sides opp. eq. s)
B N C M
R cm = KB = 2 LN = 2 cm (mid point theorem)
SI.4 The sequence {an} is defined as a1 = R, an+1 = an + 2n (n 1). If a100 = S, find the value of S.
a1= 2, a2 = 2 + 2, a3 = 2 + 2 + 4,
a100 = 2 + 2 + 4 + + 198
= 2 + (2 + 198) 99 = 9902= S
1
2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let [x] represents the integral part of the decimal number x.
1 2 7
Given that [3.126] + [3.126+ ]+[3.126+ ]++[3.126+ ] = P, find the value of P.
8 8 8
1 2 7
P = [3.126] + [3.126+ ]+[3.126+ ]++[3.126+ ]
8 8 8
= 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 4 = 25
a2 b2 c2
I1.2 Let a + b + c = 0. Given that + + = P 3Q, find the value of Q.
2a 2 + bc 2b 2 + ac 2c 2 + ab
a2 b2 c2 Method 2
a = b c + +
2a 2 + bc 2b 2 + ac 2c 2 + ab a2 b2 c2
= 2
(b + c )2 +
b2
+
c2 Q 2 + +
2a + bc 2b 2 + ac 2c 2 + ab
=253Q
2b + 5bc + 2c 2 2b 2 bc c 2 2c 2 bc b 2 The above is an identity which holds for all
a2 b2 c2 values of a, b and c, provided that a+b+ c = 0
= + +
(2b + c )(b + 2c ) (2b + c )(b c ) (b + 2c )(c b ) Let a = 0, b = 1, c = 1, then
=
(b + c ) (b c ) + b 2 (b + 2c ) c 2 (2b + c )
2 1 1
0 + + = 25 3Q.
(2b + c )(b + 2c )(b c ) Q =
2 2
8
=
(b + c ) (b c ) + b 3 c 3 + 2bc(b c )
2
(2b + c )(b + 2c )(b c )

=
(b c )(b 2 + 2bc + c 2 + b 2 + bc + c 2 + 2bc )
(2b + c )(b + 2c )(b c )
=
(2b + 5bc + 2c 2 )
2
= 1 = 25 3Q Q = 8
(2b + c )(b + 2c )
I1.3 In the first quadrant of the rectangular co-ordinate plane, all
integral points are numbered as follows,
point (0, 0) is numbered as 1,

Given that point (Q1,Q) is numbered as R, find the value of R.
point (0, 1) is numbered as 4 = 22

point (0, 8) is numbered as 65, point (1, 8) is numbered as 66, point (2, 8) is numbered as 67

(Q1, Q) = (7, 8) is numbered as 72
R
I1.4 When x + y = 4, the minimum value of 3x2 + y2 is , find the value of S.
S
72
3x2 + y2 = 3x2 + (4 x)2 = 4x2 8x + 16 = 4(x 1)2 + 12, min = 12 = ;S=6
S
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If log2(log4 P) = log4(log2 P) and P 1, find the value of P.
log(log 4 P ) log(log 2 P )
=
log 2 log 4
=
log 2 2 log 2
2 log(log4 P) = log(log2 P)
log(log4 P)2 = log(log2 P)
(log4 P)2 = log2 P
2
log P log P
=
log 4 log 2
log P 1
P 1, log P 0 =
(2 log 2) 2
log 2
log P = 4 log 2 = log 16
P = 16
I2.2 In the trapezium ABCD, AB // DC. AC and BD intersect at O. A B
The areas of triangles AOB and COD are P and 25
respectively. Given that the area of the trapezium is Q, find the O
value of Q.
Reference 1993 HI2, 1997 HG3, 2002 FI1.3, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
AOB ~ COD (equiangular) D C
area of AOB OA
2 2
16 OA
= ; =
area of COD OC 25 OC
OA : OC = 4 : 5
area of AOB 4
= (the two triangles have the same height, but different bases.)
area of BOC 5
5
Area of BOC = 16 = 20
4
Similarly, area of AOD = 20
Q = the area of the trapezium = 16 + 25 + 20 + 20 = 81
I2.3 When 1999Q is divided by 7, the remainder is R. Find the value of R.
199981 = (7285+4)81
= 7m + 481
= 7m + (43)27
= 7m + (79+1)27
= 7m + 7n + 1, where m and n are integers
R=1
I2.4 If 111111111111 222222 = (R + S)2 and S > 0, find the value of S.
111111111111 222222 = (1 + S)2
111111(1000001 2) = (1 + S)2
111111999999 = (1 + S)2
32 1111112 = (1 + S)2
1 + S = 333333
S = 333332
Individual Event 3
I3.1 Given that the unit digit of 1+2+3+...+1997+1998+1999+1998+1997+...+3+2+1 is P, find the
value of P.
1+2+3+...+1997+1998+1999+1998+1997+...+3+2+1
= 2(1 + 2 + + 1998) + 1999
= (1 + 1998)1998 +1999
P = unit digit = 1
1 1
I3.2 Given that x + = P. If x6 + 6 = Q, find the value of Q.
x x
1
x+ =1
x
2
1
x + = 1
x
1
x2 + 2 = 1
x
3
2 1
x + 2 = 1
x
1 1
x 6 + 6 + 3 x 2 + 2 = 1
x x
1
x6 + 6 = 2
x
Q=2
Q Q Q R
I3.3 Given that + +L+ = , find the
Q + 2Q 2Q + 3Q 1998Q + 1999Q Q + 1999Q
value of R.
2 2 2 R
+ +L+ =
2+ 4 4+ 6 3996 + 3998 2 + 3998
4 2 6 4 3998 3996 R
2 + +L+ =

42 64 3998 3996 2 + 3998
R
3998 2 =
3998 + 2
( )(
R = 3998 2 3998 + 2 = 3996 )
I3.4 Let f (0) = 0; f (n) = f (n 1) + 3 when n = 1, 2, 3, 4, . If 2f (S) = R, find the value of S.
f (1) = 0 + 3 = 3, f (2) = 3 + 3 = 32, f (3) = 33, , f (n) = 3n
R = 3996 = 2f (S) = 23S
S = 666
Individual Event 4
1 1
I4.1 Suppose a + =b+ 2 , where a 1, b 1, and a b + 2 0.
a +1 b 1
Given that ab a + b = P, find the value of P.
1 1
ab+2+ =0
a +1 b 1
1
(a b + 2)[1 ]=0
(a + 1)(b 1)
ab + b a 2 = 0
P=2
I4.2 In the following figure, AB is a diameter of the circle. C and D

divide the arc AB into three equal parts. The shaded area is P.
If the area of the circle is Q, find the value of Q.
Area of ACD = area of OCD
(same base, same height) and COD = 60
Shaded area = area of sector COD = 2
area of the circle = 6 2 = 12
I4.3 Given that there are R odd numbers in the digits of the product of the two Q-digit numbers
111111 and 999999, find the value of R.
Note that 99 11 = 1089; 999111 = 110889.
Deductively, 999999999999 111111111111 = 111111111110888888888889
R = 12 odd numbers in the digits.
I4.4 Let a1, a2, , aR be positive integers such that a1 < a2 < a3 < < aR-1 < aR. Given that the
sum of these R integers is 90 and the maximum value of a1 is S, find the value of S.
a1 + a2 + + a12 = 90
a1 + (a1 + 1) + (a1 + 2) + + (a1 + 11) 90
12a1 + 55 90
a1 2.9167
S = maximum value of a1 = 2
Individual Event 5
1
1 2 4 + 2 4 8 + 3 6 12 + L + 1999 3998 7996 3
I5.1 If = P, find the value of P.
13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3
1
1 2 4 + 2 4 8 + 3 6 12 + L + 1999 3998 7996 3
P =
13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3
( )
1
1 2 4 13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3 3
=
13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3
1
3
=8 = 2
I5.2 If (x P)(x 2Q) 1 = 0 has two integral roots, find the value of Q.
(x 2)(x 2Q) 1 = 0
2
x 2(1 + Q)x + 4Q 1 = 0
Two integral roots is perfect square
= 4[(1 + Q)2 (4Q 1)]
= 4(Q2 2Q + 2)
= 4(Q 1)2 + 4
It is a perfect square Q 1 = 0, Q = 1
Method 2
(x 2)(x 2Q) = 1
(x 2 = 1 and x 2Q = 1) or (x 2 = 1 and x 2Q = 1)
(x = 3 and Q = 1) or (x = 1 and Q = 1)
Q=1
I5.3 Given that the area of the ABC is 3Q; D, E and F are
the points on AB, BC and CA respectively such that
1 1 1
AD = AB, BE = BC, CF = CA. If the area of DEF
3 3 3
is R, find the value of R.
R = 3 area ADF area BDE area CEF
= 3 ( 12 AD AF sin A + 12 BE BD sin B + 12 CE CF sin C )
=3 1
2
(c3 23b sin A + 23c a3 sin B + 23a b3 sin C )
=3 2
9
(12 bc sin A + 12 ac sin B + 12 ab sin C )
=3 2
9
(3 area of ABC)
= 3 92 9 = 1
I5.4 Given that (Rx2 x + 1)1999 a0 + a1x + a2x2 + + a3998x3998 .
If S = a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3997, find the value of S.
(x2 x + 1)1999 a0 + a1x + a2x2 + + a3998x3998
compare coefficients of x3998 on both sides, a3998 = 1
Put x = 1, 11999 = a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3998
S = a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3997
= (a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3998) a3998
=11=0

SG.1 Let x * y = x + y xy, where x, y are real numbers. If a = 1 * (0 * 1), find the value of a.
0*1=0+10=1
a = 1 * (0 * 1)
=1*1
=1+11=1
SG.2 In figure 1, AB is parallel to DC, ACB is a right angle, D C
AC = CB and AB = BD. If CBD = b, find the value of b.
ABC is a right angled isosceles triangle.
BAC = 45 (s sum of , base s isos. ) b
ACD = 45 (alt. s, AB // DC)
BCD = 135 A B
Apply sine law on BCD,
BD BC
=
sin 135 sin D
AB sin 45
AB 2 = , given that AB = BD
sin D
1
sin D = ; D = 30
2
CBD = 180 135 30 = 15 (s sum of BCD)
b = 15
SG.3 Let x, y be non-zero real numbers. If x is 250% of y and 2y is c% of x, find the value of c.
x = 2.5y ..............(1)
c
2y = x .........(2)
100
c
sub. (1) into (2): 2y = 2 .5 y
100
c = 80
SG.4 If logp x = 2, logq x = 3, logr x = 6 and logpqr x = d, find the value of d.

log x log x log x
=2; = 3; =6
log p log q log r
log p 1 log q 1 log r 1
= ; = ; =
log x 2 log x 3 log x 6
log p log q log r 1 1 1
+ + = + + =1
log x log x log x 2 3 6
log pqr
=1
log x
log x
=1
log pqr
d = logpqr x = 1
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that when 81849, 106392 and 124374 are divided by an integer n, the remainders are
equal. If a is the maximum value of n, find a.
81849 = pn + k (1)
106392 = qn + k (2)
124374 = rn + k (3)
(2) (1): 24543 = (q p)n (4)
(3) (2): 17982 = (r q)n (5)
(4): 243 101 = (q p)n
(5): 243 74 = (r q)n
a = maximum value of n = 243
1 3 1+ 3
G1.2 Let x = and y = . If b = 2x2 3xy + 2y2, find the value of b.
1+ 3 1 3
b = 2x 3xy + 2y = 2x 4xy + 2y2 + xy = 2(x y)2 + xy
2 2 2
2
1 3 1+ 3 1 3 1+ 3
= 2 +

1+ 3 1 3 1+ 3 1 3
( ) ( )
2
1 3 2 1+ 3 2
= 2 +1
1 3

2
4 3
= 2 + 1 = 25

2
G1.3 Given that c is a positive number. If there is only one straight line which passes through point
A(1, c) and meets the curve C: x2 + y2 2x 2y 7 = 0 at only one point, find the value of c.
The curve is a circle.
There is only one straight line which passes through point A and meets the curve at only one
point the straight line is a tangent and the point A(1, c) lies on the circle.
(otherwise two tangents can be drawn if A lies outside the circle)
Put x = 1, y = c into the circle.
1 + c2 2 2c 7 = 0
c2 2c 8 = 0
(c 4)(c + 2) = 0
c = 4 or c = 2 (rejected)
G1.4 In Figure 1, PA touches the circle with centre O at A.

If PA = 6, BC = 9, PB = d, find the value of d.
It is easy to show that PAB ~ PCA
PA PC
= (ratio of sides, ~'s)
PB PA
6 9+d
=
d 6
36 = 9d + d2
d2 + 9d 36 = 0
(d 3)(d + 12) = 0
d = 3 or 12 (rejected)
Group Event 2
G2.1 If 191 is the difference of two consecutive perfect squares, find the value of the smallest
square number, a.
Let a = t2, the larger perfect square is (t +1)2
(t + 1)2 t2 = 191
2t + 1 = 191
t = 95
a = 952 = 9025
1
G2.2 In Figure 2(a), ABCD is a rectangle. DE:EC = 1: 5, and DE = 12 4 . BCE is folded along the
side BE. If b is the area of the shaded part as shown in Figure 2(b), find the value of b.
A D C
F G
E A D
60
E
30
B C
B
Let DE = t, then CE = 5t. Suppose BC intersects AD at F, CE intersects AD at G.
BC = BC' = AD = 5t tan 60 = 5 3 t
CED = 60, ABC = 30, CFG = 60, CGF = 30
AF = 6t tan 30 = 2 3 t, DG = t tan 60 = 3 t
FG = 5 3 t 2 3 t 3 t = 2 3 t
CF = 2 3 t cos 60 = 3 t, CG = 2 3 t cos 30 = 3t
1 3 3 2 3 3
Area of CFG = 3t 3t = t = 12 =9
2 2 2
2
G2.3 Let the curve y = x 7x + 12 intersect the x-axis at points A and B, and intersect the y-axis at
C. If c is the area of ABC, find the value of c.
x2 7x + 12 = (x 3)(x 4)
The x-intercepts of 3, 4.
Let x = 0, y = 12
c = (4 3) 12 = 6 sq. units
1
2
G2.4 Let f (x) = 41x2 4x + 4 and g(x) = 2x2 + x. If d is the smallest value of k such that
f (x) + kg(x) = 0 has a single root, find d.
41x2 4x + 4 + k(2x2 + x) = 0
(41 2k)x2 + (k 4)x + 4 = 0
It has a single root = 0 or 41 2k = 0
41
(k 4)2 4(41 2k)(4) = 0 or k =
2
41
k2 8 + 16 1641 + 32k = 0 or k =
2
41
k2 + 24k 640 = 0 or k =
2
41
k = 16 or 40 or , d = the smallest value of k = 40
2
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let a = 1997 1998 1999 2000 + 1 , find the value of a.
Let t = 1998.5, then 1997 = t 1.5, 1998 = t 0.5, 1999 = t + 0.5, 2000 = t + 1.5
1997 1998 1999 2000 + 1 = (t 1.5) (t 0.5) (t + 0.5) (t + 1.5) + 1
= (t 2
) ( ) 9 1
2.25 t 2 0.25 + 1 = t 2 t 2 + 1
4 4
2
10 25 5
4
= t t2 + = t 2 = t2 1.25
4 16 4
= 1998.5 1.25 = (2000 1.5)2 1.25
2
= 4000000 6000 + 2.25 1.25 = 3994001

G3.2 In Figure 3, A and B are two cones inside a 20
cylindrical tube with length of 20 and diameter
of 6. If the volumes of A and B are in the ratio 6
A B
3:1 and b is the height of the cone B, find the
value of b.
32 (20 b ) : 3 2 b = 3 : 1
1 1
3 3
20 b = 3b
b=5
10 10
G3.3 If c is the largest slope of the tangents from the point A , to the circle C: x2 +y2 =1,
2 2
10 10
Let the equation of tangent be y = c x

2 2
cx y +
10
(1 c ) = 0
2
Distance form centre (0, 0) to the straight line = radius
00+ 10
(1 c )
2
=1
c 2 + ( 1)2
5
(1 c )2 = c 2 + 1
2
5 10c + 5c2 = 2c2 + 2
3c2 10c + 3 = 0
(3c 1)(c 3) = 0
1
c = or 3. The largest slope = 3.
3
G3.4 P is a point located at the origin of the coordinate plane. When a dice is thrown and the
number n shown is even, P moves to the right by n. If n is odd, P moves upward by n. Find
the value of d, the total number of tossing sequences for P to move to the point (4, 4).
Possible combinations of the die:
2,2,1,1,1,1. There are 6C2 permutations, i.e. 15.
4,1,1,1,1. There are 5C1 permutations, i.e. 5.
2,2,1,3. There are 4C2 2 permutations, i.e. 12.
4,1,3. There are 3! permutations, i.e. 6.
Total number of possible ways = 15 + 5 + 12 + 6 = 38.
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let a be a 3-digit number. If the 6-digit number formed by putting a at the end of the number
504 is divisible by 7, 9, and 11, find the value of a.
Reference: 2010 HG1
Note that 504 is divisible by 7 and 9. We look for a 3-digit number which is a multiple of 63
and that 504000 + a is divisible by 11. 504504 satisfied the condition.
8 + 64 2 8 64 2
G4.2 In Figure 4, ABCD is a rectangle with AB = and BC = . BE

and BF are the arcs of circles with centers at C and A respectively. If b is the total area of the
shaded parts, find the value of b.
AB = AF, BC = CE
Shaded area = sector ABF rectangle ABCD + sector BCE

= AB 2 AB BC + BC 2
4 4
2 2

8 + 64 2 8 + 64 2 8 64 2 8 64 2
= +
4 4
=
8 + 64 2
+
8 64 2 (
64 64
2
)
4 2

16
2
= =41=3=b
4 2
G4.3 In Figure 5, O is the centre of the circle and B

c = 2y. Find the value of c.
BOC = 2c ( at centre twice at ce)
y + y + 2c = 180 (s sum of OBC)
2y + 2c = 180
O
c + 2c = 180
y
c = 60 c
A C
G4.4 A, B, C, D, E, F, G are seven people sitting around a circular table. If d is the total number of
ways that B and G must sit next to C, find the value of d.
Reference: 1998 FI5.3, 2011 FI1.4
If B, C, G are neighbours, we can consider these persons bound together as one person. So,
there are 5 persons sitting around a round table. The number of ways should be 5!. Since it is
a round table, every seat can be counted as the first one. That is, ABCDE is the same as
BCDEA, CDEAB, DEABC, EABCD. Therefore every 5 arrangements are the same. The
number of arrangement should be 5! 5 = 4! = 24. But B and G can exchange their seats.
Total number of arrangements = 24 2 = 48.
Group Event 5
G5.1 If a is the smallest cubic number divisible by 810, find the value of a.
Reference: 2002 HI2
810 = 2345
a = 233653 = 729000
G5.2 Let b be the maximum of the function y = |x2 4| 6x (where 2 x 5), find the value of b.
When 2 x 2, y = 4 x2 6x = (x + 3)2 + 13
Maximum value occurs at x = 2, y = (2 + 3)2 + 13 = 12
When 2 x 5, y = x2 4 6x = (x 3)2 13
Maximum value occurs at x = 5, y = 9
Combing the two cases, b = 12
G5.3 In Figure 6, a square-based pyramid is cut into

two shapes by a cut running parallel to the base x
2
and made of the way up. Let 1 : c be the
3
ratio of the volume of the small pyramid to that
of the truncated base, find the value of c.
Reference: 2001 HG5
2x
The two pyramids are similar.
3
volume of the small pyramid x 1
= =
volume of the big pyramid 3 x 27
c = 27 1 = 26
G5.4 If cos6 + sin6 = 0.4 and d = 2 + 5 cos2 sin2 , find the value of d.
(cos2 + sin2 )(cos4 sin2 cos2 + cos4 ) = 0.4
cos4 + 2 sin2 cos2 + cos4 3 sin2 cos2 = 0.4
(cos2 + sin2 )2 3 sin2 cos2 = 0.4
1 0.4 = 3 sin2 cos2
sin2 cos2 = 0.2
d = 2 + 5 cos2 sin2 = 2 + 50.2 = 3
98-99 1 1 2 8 3 56 4 405 5 100000

Individual 6 2401 7 9 8 36 9 11 10 9
1 1
98-99 1 3 2 24 3 4 5 6
2 2
Group
6 12 7 4 8 7 9 12 10 135
Individual Events
I1 The circumference of a circle is 14 cm. Let X cm be the length of an arc of the circle, which
1
subtends an angle of radian at the centre. Find the value of X.
7
Let r be the radius of the circle.

2r = 14
r=7
1
X = r = 7 = 1
7
I2 In Figure 1, ABCDEF is a regular hexagon with area equal to

3 3 cm2. Let X cm 2 be the area of the square PQRS, find the value
of X.
Area of the hexagon = 6areas of AOB
1 3 3
3 3 = 6 OB 2 sin 60o = OB 2
2 2
2
OB = 2
Area of the square = (2OB)2 = 42 = 8
I3 8 points are given and no three of them are collinear. Find the number of triangles formed by
using any 3 of the given points as vertices.
The number of triangles formed
8 7 6
= 8C3 = = 56
1 2 3
I4 In Figure 2, there is a 3 3 square.
Let a + b + + i = X, find the value of X.
Reference:

c = e = g = 45
a + i = 90, b + f = 90, d + h = 90
a + b + + i = 453 + 903 = 405
X = 405
I5 How many integers n are there between 0 and 106, such that the unit digit of n3 is 1?
13 = 1, the unit digit of n must be 1
There are 106 10 = 100000 possible integers.
I6 Given that a, b, c are positive integers and a c = 100
Possible pairs of (a, b): (2, 99), (3, 98), (3, 99), (4, 97), (4, 98), (4, 99), ,
(50, 51), (50, 52), , (50, 99), ....................................
(98, 99)
Total number of triangles = 1 + 2 + + 48 + 49 + 48 + + 2 + 1
1 + 49
= 49 2 49 = 2401
2
I7 A group of youngsters went for a picnic. They agreed to share all expenses. The total amount
used was $288. One youngster had no money to pay his share, and each of the others had to
pay $4 more to cover the expenses. How many youngsters were there in the group?
Let the number of youngsters be n.
288 288
=4
n 1 n
72 = n2 n
n=9
I8 A two-digit number is equal to 4 times the sum of the digits, and the number formed by
reversing the digits exceeds 5 times the sum of the digits by 18. What is the number?
Let the unit digits of the original number be x and the tens digit by y.
10y + x = 4(x + y) ..............(1)
10x + y 5(x + y) = 18 ......(2)
From (1), 6y = 3x x = 2y ..........(3)
Sub. (3) into (2): 20y + y 5(2y + y) = 18
y = 3, x = 6
The number is 36.
I9 Given that the denominator of the 1001th term of the following sequence is 46, find the
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4
numerator of this term. , , , , , , , , , ,
2 3 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 5
Suppose the numerator of the 1001th term is n.
1 + 2 + 3 + + 44 + n = 1001, n 45
1
(45)(44) + n = 1001
2
n = 1001 990 = 11
I10 In the following addition, if the letter S represents 4, what digit does the letter A SEE
represent? SEE
3E + 4 = 10a + Y .........(1), where a is the carry digit in the tens digit. 4EE SEE
4E + a = 10b + 4 ......(2), where b is the carry digit in the hundreds digit. 4EE + YES
43 + Y + b = 10E + A ..........(3) 4EE EASY
From (3), E = 1 or 2 + YE4
When E = 1, (1) Y = 7, a = 0, (2) b = 0, (3) A = 9 EA4Y
When E = 2, (2) a = 1, Y = 0 reject because YE4 is a 3-digit number.
A=9
Group Events
G1 If a is a prime number and a2 2a 15 < 0, find the greatest value of a.
(a + 3)(a 5) < 0
a<5
The greatest prime number is 3.
G2 If a : b : c = 3 : 4 : 5 and a + b + c = 48, find the value of a b c.
a = 3k, b = 4k, c = 5k; sub. into a + b + c = 48
3k + 4k + 5k = 48
k=4
a = 12, b = 16, c = 20
a b c = 12 16 20 = 24
G3 Find the value of log 3 + 5 + 3 5 .

Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1

log 3 + 5 + 3 5 = log
6+2 5
+
6 2 5

= log
(1 + 5 )2
+ ( 5 1)
2

2 2
2

1+ 5 + 5 1
= log

( )
= log 2 5 = log 2 5 = log 10 = 1
2
2 2
G4 Find the area enclosed by the straight line x + 4y 2 = 0 and the two coordinate axes.
1 1 1 1
x-intercept = 2, y-intercept = ; the area = 2 =
2 2 2 2
G5 Natural numbers are written in order starting from 1 until 198th digit as shown
1234567891
1444 4201112
444 L . If the number obtained is divided by 9, find the remainder.
L4
3
198 digits
123456789 has 9 digits

101112139899 has 902 = 180 digits
12345678910119899100101102 has 198 digits.
1 + 2 + 3 + +9 = 45, 11+12++19 is also divisible by 9,...,
91+92++99 is divisible by 9.
10 + 20 + + 90 is divisible by 9
the remainder is the same as 100101102 divided by 9.
1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 2 = 6, the remainder is 6.
G6 The average of 2, a, 5, b, 8 is 6. If n is the average of a, 2a+1, 11, b, 2b+3, find the value of n.
2 + a + 5 + b + 8 = 30 .........(1), a + 2a + 1 + 11 + b + 2b + 3 = 5n .............(2)
From (1): a + b = 15
(2) 5n = 3a + 3b + 15 = 3(a + b) + 15 = 315 + 15 = 60
n = 12
G7 If p = 2x2 4xy + 5y2 12y + 16, where x and y are real numbers, find the least value of p.
p = 2x2 4xy + 2y2 + 3y2 12y + 16 = 2(x y)2 + 3(y2 4y + 4) + 4 = 2(x y)2 + 3(y 2)2 + 4
p 4, the least value of p is 4.

31 = 3, 32 = 9, 33 = 27, 34 = 81, the unit digit of 34m is 1, where m is any positive integer.
333335 = 333483+3 = (3334)833333 = (...1)83(...33) = ...7, the unit digit is 7.
G9 In Figure 1, MON = 20, A is a point on OM, OA = 4 3 ,
D is a point on ON, OD = 8 3 , C is any point on AM, B is
any point OD. If l = AB + BC + CD, find the least value of
l.
Reflect the figure along the line OM, then reflect the figure
between MON1 along the line ON1.
NOM2 = 320 = 60 M2
l = AB + BC + CD = AB1 + B1C + CD
l = A2B1 + B1C + CD
N1
l is the shortest when A2, B1, C, D are collinear. C2
By cosine formula on OA2D,
D1
Shortest l =A2D = (4 3 ) + (8 3 ) 2(4 3 )(8 3 )cos 60
2 2 o A2
B1 C
M
= 48 + 192 96 = 12 A
60
O N
B D
G10 In figure 2, P is a point inside the square ABCD, PA = a,

A D
PB = 2a, PC=3a (a > 0). If APB=x, find the value of x
Reference: 2014 HG4 a
Rotate APB by 90 in anti-clockwise direction about B.
Let P rotate to Q, A rotate to E. P
APB EQB (by construction)
EQ = a, BQ = 2a = PB. Join AQ.
PBQ = 90 (Rotation) 2a 3a
ABQ = 90 ABP = PBC
ABQ CBP (SAS)
B C
AQ = CP = 3a (corr. sides s)
Q PBQ = 90 (Rotation) A D
PQ2 = PB2 + QB2 (Pyth. Theorem)
a
= (2a)2 + (2a)2 = 8a2
AP2 + PQ2 = a2 + 8a2 = 9a2 P
AQ2 = (3a)2
AP2 + PQ2 = AQ2
2a 3a
APQ = 90
Q
QPBQ = 90 and PB = QB
a 2a
BPQ = 45
APB = 45 + 90 = 135 E B C
Individual Events
I1 P 4 I2 a 8 I3 a 6 I4 a 23 I5 a 2 IS a 2
Q 8 b 10 b 7 b 2 b 1 spare b 770
R 11 c 1 c 2 c 2 c 0 c 57
S 10 d 2000 d 9902 d 8 d 6 d 58
Group Events
G1 a 1 G2 a 1 G3 a 2 G4 a 4 G5 P 35 GS P 4
b 15 b 0 b 7 b 0 Q 6 spare Q 6
c 80 c 13 c 0 c 3 R 11 R 35
d 1 d 5 d *6 d 3 S 150 S 8
see the remark
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If the interior angles of a P-sided polygon form an Arithmetic Progression and the smallest
and the largest angles are 20 and 160 respectively. Find the value of P.
P
Sum of all interior angles = (20 + 160) = 180(P 2)
2
90P = 180P 360
P=4
1
I1.2 In ABC, AB = 5, AC = 6 and BC = p. If = cos 2A, find the value of Q.
Q
(Hint: cos 2A = 2 cos2 A 1)
62 + 52 4 2 3
cos A = =
2 65 4
2
cos 2A = 2 cos A 1
2
3 1
= 2 1 =
4 8
Q=8
R
I1.3 If log2 Q + log4 Q + log8 Q = , find the value of R.
2
R
= log2 8 + log4 8 + log8 8
2
3 11
=3+ +1=
2 2
R = 11
11
I1.4 If the product of the numbers R and is the same as their sum, find the value of S.
S
11 11
11 = 11 +
S S
110
= 11
S
S = 10
Individual Event 2
x+ yz x y+z x+ y+z
I2.1 If x, y and z are positive real numbers such that = = and
z y x
( x + y ) ( y + z ) (z + x )
a= , find the value of a.
xyz
Reference: 1992 HG2
x+ yz x y+z x+ y+z
Let = k, = k, = k.
z y x
x + y z = kz LL(1)

x y + z = ky LL(2 )
x + y + z = kxLL(3)

(1) + (2) + (3): x + y + z = k(x + y + z)
k=1
From (1), x + y = 2z, (2): x + z = 2y, (3): y + z = 2x
(x + y ) ( y + z ) (z + x ) 8 xyz
a= = =8
xyz xyz
I2.2 Let u and t be positive integers such that u + t + ut = 4a + 2. If b = u + t, find the value of b.
u + t + ut = 34 1 + u + t + ut = 35
(1 + u)(1 + t) = 35
1 + u = 5, 1 + t = 7
u = 4, t = 6
b = 4 + 6 = 10
I2.3 In Figure 1, OAB is a quadrant of a circle and semi-circles are drawn on OA
and OB. If p, q denotes the areas of the shaded regions, where x
p = (b 9) cm2 and q = c cm2, find the value of c.
p = 1, let the area of each of two unshaded regions be x cm2
Let the radius of each of the smaller semicircles be r. The radius of the quadrant is 2r. x
r 2
; 2x + p + q = area of the quadrant = (2r ) = r 2
1 2
x + q = area of one semi-circle =
2 4
2(1) = (2), 2x + 2q = 2x + p + q q = p; c = 1
1
I2.4 Let f0(x) = and fn(x) = f0(fn1(x)), n = 1, 2, 3, . If f2000(2000) = d, find the value of d.
cx
Reference: 2009 HI6
1 1 1 1 x x 1 1
f0(x) = , f1(x) = f0( )= = = = 1
1 x 1 x 1 1 x
1
x x x
1 1
f2(x) = f0( 1 ) = = x, which is an identity function.
x 1 (1 1x )
So f5(x) = f2(x) = x, , f2000(x) = x; f2000(2000) = 2000 = d
Individual Event 3 (2000 Sample Individual Event)

I3.1 For all integers m and n, m n is defined as: m n = mn + nm.
If 2 a = 100, find the value of a.
Reference: 1990 HI4
2a + a2 = 100
64 + 36 = 26 + 62 = 100
a=6
I3.2 If 3 13b + 6a + 1 3 13b 6a 1 = 3 2 , where b > 0, find the value of b.
( 13b + 37
3 3
)3
13b 37 = 2
13b + 37 3 3 (13b + 37 ) 13b 37 +3 3 (13b 37 ) 13b + 37 (13b 37) = 2
23 23
24 = 3
(13b)2 37 2 3 13b + 37 3 (13b ) 37 2 3 13b 37
2
24 = 3
(13b)2 37 2 2 ;
3
(Q 3 13b + 37 3 13b 37 = 3 2 )
13824 = [(13b)2 1369] 2
6912 + 1369 = 169 b2
b2 = 49
b=7
Method 2 3 13b + 37 3 13b 37 = 3 2 ,
3
8 2 3 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 16, 13b 37 = 2, no solution
3
27 2 3 8 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 54, 13b 37 = 16, no solution
3
64 2 3 27 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 128, 13b 37 = 54
b=7
I3.3 In figure 2, AB = AC and KL = LM. If LC = b 6 cm and
A
KB = c cm, find the value of c.
Reference: 1992 HG6
Draw LN // AB on BM. K
L
BN = NM intercept theorem
B M
LN = LC = b 6 cm = 1 cm (sides opp. eq. s) N C
c cm = KB = 2 LN = 2 cm (mid point theorem)
I3.4 The sequence {an} is defined as a1 = c, an+1 = an + 2n (n 1). If a100 = d, find the value of d.
a1= 2, a2 = 2 + 2, a3 = 2 + 2 + 4, ,
a100 = 2 + 2 + 4 + + 198
= 2 + (2 + 198) 99 = 9902 = d
1
2
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Mr. Lee is a years old, a < 100.
If the product of a and his month of birth is 253, find the value of a.
253 = 1123
11 = his month of birth and a = 23
I4.2 Mr. Lee has a + b sweets. If he divides them equally among 10 persons, 5 sweets will be
remained. If he divides them equally among 7 persons, 3 more sweets are needed. Find the
minimum value of b.
10m + 5 = 7n 3 = 23 + b
7n 10m = 8
By trial and error n = 4, m = 2
23 + b = 74 3 = 25
b=2
I4.3 Let c be a positive real number. If x2 + 2 c x + b = 0 has one real root only, find the value of c
x2 + 2 c x + 2 = 0
= 4(c 2) = 0
c=2
I4.4 In figure 3, the area of the square ABCD is equal to d. If E, F, G, H are the A E B
mid-points of AB, BC, CD and DA respectively and EF = c, find the value of d. H F
Area of EFGH = c2 = 22 = 4
Area of ABCD = 2 area of EFGH = 8 D
G
C
d=8
Individual Event 5
I5.1 If 144p = 10, 1728q =5 and a = 122p3q, find the value of a.
a = 122p3q = 144p 1728q = 10 5 = 2
4 4 a
I5.2 If 1 + 2 = 0, b = , find b.
x x x
2
2 2
1 = 0 ; x = 2, b = = 1
x 2
I5.3 If the number of real roots of the equation x2 bx + 1 = 0 is c, find the value of c.
x2 x + 1 = 0
= 12 4 < 0
c = number of real roots = 0
I5.4 Let f (1) = c + 1 and f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1), where n > 1. If d = f (4), find d.
f (1) = 1
f (2) = f (1) = 1
f (3) = 2f (2) = 2
f (4) = 3f (3) = 32 = 6

IS.1 If a is the smallest prime number which can divide the sum 311 + 513, find the value of a.
311 is an odd number
513 is also an odd number
So 311 + 513 is an even number, which is divisible by 2.
1
IS.2 For all real number x and y, x y is defined as: x y = .
xy
If b = 4 (a 1540), find the value of b.

1 1
a 1540 = =
2 1540 3080
3080
b = 4 (a 1540) = = 770
4
IS.3 W and F are two integers which are greater than 20. If the product of W and F is b and the
sum of W and F is c, find the value of c.
WF = 770LL (1)

W + F = c LL(2)
770 = 2235
W = 22, F = 35
c = 22 + 35 = 57
d 1 1 1
IS.4 If = 1 2 1 2 L 1 2 , find the value of d.
114 2 3 c
Reference: 1986 FG10.4, 2014 FG3.1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 2 1 2 L1 2 = 1 1 L1 1 + 1 + L1 +
2 3 57 2 3 57 2 3 57
1 2 56 3 4 58 1 58 58
= L L = =
2 3 57 2 3 57 57 2 114
d = 58
Group Event 1 (2000 Final Sample Group Event)

G1.1 Let x * y = x + y xy, where x, y are real numbers. If a = 1 * (0 * 1), find the value of a.
0*1=0+10=1
a = 1 * (0 * 1)
=1*1
=1+11=1
G1.2 In figure 1, AB is parallel to DC, ACB is a right angle, D C
BCD = 135 A B
BD BC
=
sin 135 sin D
AB sin 45
sin D
1
sin D = ; D = 30
2
CBD = 180 135 30 = 15 (s sum of BCD)
b = 15
G1.3 Let x, y be non-zero real numbers. If x is 250% of y and 2y is c% of x, find the value of c.
x = 2.5y ..............(1)
c
2y = x .........(2)
100
c
Sub. (1) into (2): 2y = 2 .5 y
100
c = 80
G1.4 If logp x = 2, logq x = 3, logr x = 6 and logpqr x = d, find the value of d.
log x log x log x
=2; = 3; =6
log p log q log r
= ; = ; =
+ + = + + =1
log pqr
=1
log x
log x
=1
log pqr
d = logpqr x = 1
Group Event 2
G2.1 If a = x4 + x4 and x2 + x + 1 = 0, find the value of a.
x2 + x +1
=0
x
1
x + = 1
x
2
x + = 1
1
x
1
x 2 + 2 = 1
x
2
x 2 +
1
=1
x2
1
a = x4 + = 1
x4
G2.2 If 6b + 6b+1 = 2b + 2b+1 + 2b+2, find the value of b.
6b(1 + 6) = 2b(1 + 2 + 4)
b=0
G2.3 Let c be a prime number. If 11c + 1 is the square of a positive integer, find the value of c.
11c + 1 = m2
m2 1 = 11c
(m + 1)(m 1) = 11c
m 1 = 11 and m + 1 = c
m = 13
G2.4 Let d be an odd prime number. If 89 (d + 3)2 is the square of an integer, find the value of d.
Q d is odd, d + 3 must be even, 89 (d + 3)2 must be odd.
89 = (d + 3)2 + m2
By trial and error, m = 5, 89 = 82 + 52
d+3=8
d=5
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let a be the number of positive integers less than 100 such that they are both square and cubic
numbers, find the value of a.
1998 HG4
The positive integers less than 100 such that they are both square and cubic numbers are:
1 and 26 = 64 only, so there are only 2 numbers satisfying the condition.
G3.2 The sequence {ak} is defined as: a1 = 1, a2 = 1 and ak = ak1 + ak2 (k > 2)
If a1 + a2 + + a10 = 11 ab , find the value of b.
a1 = 1, a2 = 1, a3 = 2, a4 = 3, a5 = 5, a6 = 8, a7 = 13, a8 = 21, a9 = 34, a10 = 55
a1 + a2 + + a10 = 1 + 1 + 2 + 3 + 5 + 8 + 13 + 21 + 34 + 55 = 143 = 1113 = 11a7
b=7
G3.3 If c is the maximum value of log(sin x), where 0 < x < , find the value of c.
0 < sin x 1
log(sin x) log 1 = 0
c=0
G3.4 Let x 0 and y 0. Given that x + y = 18. If the maximum value of x + y is d, find the
value of d. (Reference: 1999 FGS.2)
x+y= ( )
2
x + y 2 xy
( x+ y )
2 x+ y
= 18 + 2 xy 18 + 2 = 36 (GM AM)
2
x + y 6 = d (It is easy to get the answer by letting x = y in x + y = 18)
Remark The original question is Given that x + y = 18. If the maximum value of x+ yL
x + y is undefined for x < 0 or y < 0.
Group Event 4
G4.1 If a tiles of L-shape are used to form a larger similar figure (figure 2) 1
without overlapping, find the least possible value of a.
From the figure, a = 4. 1
2
1
G4.2 Let , be the roots of x2 + bx 2 = 0. If > 1 and < 1, and b is an integer, find the value
of b.
1 > 0 and + 1 < 0
( 1)( + 1) < 0
+ 1 < 0
<3
( )2 < 9
( + )2 4 < 9
b2 + 8 < 9
1 < b < 1
Q b is an integer
b=0
c+4
G4.3 Given that m, c are positive integers less than 10. If m = 2c and 0.m& c& = , find the value
m+5
of c.
10m + c c + 4
0.m& c& = =
99 m+5
20c + c c + 4
=
99 2c + 5
7c c + 4
=
33 2c + 5
14c2 + 35c = 33c + 132
14c2 + 2c 132 = 0
7c2 + c 66 = 0
(7c + 22)(c 3) = 0
c=3
G4.4 A bag contains d balls of which x are black, x + 1 are red and x + 2 are white. If the
1
probability of drawing a black ball randomly from the bag is less than , find the value of d.
6
x 1
<
3x + 3 6
x 1
<
x +1 2
2x < x + 1
x<1
x=0
d = 3x + 3 = 3
Group Event 5
G5.1 If the roots of x2 2x P = 0 differ by 12, find the value of P.
+ = 2, = P
= 12
( )2 = 144
( + )2 4 = 144
4 + 4P = 144
P = 35
G5.2 Given that the roots of x2 + ax + 2b = 0 and x2 + 2bx + a = 0 are both real and a, b > 0.
If the minimum value of a + b is Q, find the value of Q.
a2 8b 0 and 4b2 4a 0
a2 8b and b2 a
a4 64b2 64a
a4 64a 0
a(a3 64) 0
a3 64
a4
Minimum a = 4, b2 a
b2 4 minimum b = 2
Q = minimum value of a + b = 4 + 2 = 6
G5.3 If R2000 < 53000, where R is a positive integer, find the largest value of R.
(R2)1000 < (53)1000
R2 < 53 = 125
R < 125 < 12
The largest integral value of R = 11
G5.4 In figure 3, ABC is a right-angled triangle and BH AC.
If AB = 15, HC = 16 and the area of ABC is S, find the A
value of S. H
Reference: 1998 FG1.3 15
It is easy to show that ABH ~ BCH ~ ACB. 16
Let ABH = = BCH
In ABH, BH = 15 cos
B C
In BCH, CH = BH tan 16 tan = 15 cos
16 sin = 15 cos2 16 sin = 15 15 sin2
15 sin2 + 16 sin 15 = 0
(3 sin + 5)(5 sin 3) = 0
3 3
sin = ; tan =
5 4
4
BC = AB tan = 15 = 20
3
1
Area of ABC = 15 20 = 150 = S
2
Group Event (Spare)

GS.1 If a number N is chosen randomly from the set of positive integers, the probability of the unit
P
digit of N4 being unity is , find the value of P.
10
4
If the unit digit of N4 is 1, then the unit digit of N may be 1, 3, 7, 9. So the probability =
10
P=4
GS.2 Let x 0 and y 0. Given that x + y = 18. If the maximum value of x + y is d, find the
value of d.
x+y= ( )
2
x + y 2 xy
( x+ y )
2 x+ y
= 18 + 2 xy 18 + 2 = 36 (G.M. A.M.)
2
x+ y 6=d
GS.3 If the roots of x2 2x R = 0 differs by 12, find the value of R.

+ = 2, = R
= 12
( )2 = 144
( + )2 4 = 144
4 + 4R = 144
R = 35
GS.4 If the product of a 4-digit number abSd and 9 is equal to another 4-digit number dSba,
Reference: 1987 FG9, 1994HI6
a = 1, d = 9, Let the carry digit in the hundred digit be x. Then 9S + 8 = 10x + b .........(1)
9b + x = S ...........(2); x = S 9b ...............(3)
Sub. (3) into (1): 9s + 8 = 10(S 9b) + b 8 = S 89b
S = 8, b = 0
1
97-98 1 2 2 40 3 12 4 3 5
Individual 2
6 466 7 19 8 3 9 2 10 744
1 2 2 12 3 27 4 64 5 14
97-98
1
Group 6 14 7 8 1 9 20 10 19
2
Individual Events
I1 Given that x3 5x2 + 2x + 8 is divisible by (x a) and (x 2a), where a is an integer, find the
value of a.
Let f (x) = x3 5x2 + 2x + 8
f (1) = 1 5 2 + 8 = 0 x + 1 is a factor
f (2) = 8 20 + 4 + 8 = 0 x 2 is a factor
f (x) = (x + 1)(x 2)(x 4)
a=2
I2 Given that 8, a, b form an A.P. and a, b, 36 form a G.P. If a and b are both positive numbers,
find the sum of a and b.
8+b
a= (1); b2 = 36a (2)
2
Sub. (1) into (2): b2 = 18(8 + b)
b2 18b 144 = 0
(b + 6)(b 24) = 0
b = 6 (rejected) or b = 24
8 + 24
a= = 16
2
a + b = 40
x x
I3 Find the smallest real root of the following equation: = .
(x 4)(x + 3) (x + 4)(x 6)
x(x + 4)(x 6) = x(x 4)(x + 3)
x(x2 2x 24) = x(x2 x 12)
0 = x(x + 12)
x = 0 or 12
The smallest root = 12
I4 In figure 1, ABCD is a square. E is a point on AB such that BE = 1 and A E

B
CE = 2. Find the area of the square ABCD.
BC2 = 22 12 (Pythagoras theorem on BCE)
Area of the square = BC2 = 3
D C
I5 If 2x + 3 = 2 + 2 + 2 + L , find the value of x.
(2 x + 3)2 = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + L = 2 + (2 x + 3)
2
4x + 12x + 9 = 2x + 5
4x2 + 10x + 4 = 0
2x2 + 5x + 2 = 0
(2x + 1)(x + 2) = 0
1
x = or 2
2
Q 2x + 3= 2 + 2 + 2 + L > 0
1
x 2, x = only
2
I6 Given that n is a positive integer which is less than 1000. If n is divisible by 3 or 5, find the
number of possible values of n. (Reference: 1993 FG8.3-4, 1994 FG8.1-2, 2015 FI3.1)
Number of multiples of 3 = 333
Number of possible n = 333 + 199 66 = 466
I7 In figure 2, ABCD is a rectangle with CD = 12. E is a point on
CD such that DE = 5. M is the mid-point of AE and P, Q are
points on AD and BC respectively such that PMQ is a straight
line. If PM : MQ = 5 : k , find the value of k.
Draw a straight line HMG // CD (H lies on AD, G lies on BC)
AH = HD (Intercept theorem) A B
PHM ~ QGM (equiangular)
AHM ~ ADE (equiangular)
P M
PM : MQ = HM : MG (ratio of sides, ~'s) H G
1
= DE : (HG HM) (ratio of sides, ~'s) Q
2
5 7 C
= 2.5 : (12 2.5) = 5 : 19 (opp. sides, rectangle) D E
k = 19
I8 Find the last digit of the value of 620 512 8.
61 = 6, 62 = 36, , the last digit of 620 is 6, the last digit of 512 is 5.
The last digit if the number is 6 5 8 (mod 10) = 7 = 3 (mod 10)
x+2 x 1 5
I9 Let a be the positive root of the equation + = , find the value of a.
x 1 x+2 2
Cross multiplying: 2(x + 2 + x 1) = 5 ( x 1)( x + 2)
4(4x2 + 4x + 1) = 25(x2 + x 2)
9x2 + 9x 54 = 0
9(x 2)(x + 3) = 0
a=x=2
I10 Find the sum of all positive factors of 240.
Reference 1993 HI8, 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 FI1.4, 2002 FG4.1, 2005 FI4.4
240 = 2435
Positive factors are in the form 2a3b5c, 0 a 4, 0 b, c 1, a, b, c are integers.
Sum of positive factors = (1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + 24)(1 + 3)(1 + 5) = 3146 = 744
Group Events
1 1
G1 If x + = 2 , find the value of x 3 + 3 .
x x
2
1 1
x + 2 = x + 2= 2
2
x x
1 1 1
x3 + 3
= x + x 2 1 + 2 = 2(2 1) = 2
x x x
G2 In Figure 1, ABC is a triangle. AD and BE are the bisectors of the E
exterior angles A and B respectively meeting CB and AC C
produced at D and E. Let AD = BE = AB and BAC = a. Find
the value of a. Reference: 1986
A B
180o a o ao
BAD = = 90o (adj. s on st. line, bisector)
2 2
180o BAD ao
ABD = = 45o + (s sum of ABD) D
2 4
ABD ao
CBE = = 22.5o + (vert. opp. s, bisector)
2 8
ABE = ABC + CBE = 180 ABD + CBE
ao ao ao
= 135o + 22.5o + = 157.5o
4 8 8
AEB = a (base s isosceles )
ao
a + a + 157.5o = 180 (s sum of ABE)
8
a = 12
G3 If 6 a 4 and 3 b 6, find the greatest value of a2 b2.
0 a2 36 and 9 b2 36
36 a2 b2 27
The greatest value = 27.
G4 Let a, b, c be integers such that a2 = b3 = c. If c > 1, find the smallest value of c.
Let a = k3, b = k2, c = k6
c>1k>1
The smallest k = 2
The smallest c = 26 = 64
G5 In figure 2, the area of the parallelogram ABCD A D

is 120. M and N are the mid-points of AB and
BC respectively. AN intersects MD and BD at P
points P and Q respectively. Find the area of M
BQPM.
Produce DM and CB to meet at R. Q
Let BC = 2a. Then BN = NC = a (mid-point)
B C
AQD ~ BQN (equiangular) N
A D
BQ BN
= (ratio of sides, ~s) P
QD AD M 2t
Q
1
=
t
(N = mid-point, opp. sides of //-gram) a a
2 R 2a B N C
1
Area of ABD = 120 = 60
2
2
Area of AQD = ABD = 40
3
2
Area of BQN BN 1
= =
Area of AQD AD 4
1
Area of BQN = 40 = 10 ..(1)
4
As M is the mid-point, AMD BMR (ASA)
RM = MD (corr. sides s) (2)
Also APD ~ NPR (equiangular)
DP AD
PR NR
2a 2
= = (opp. sides of //-gram, corr. sides s) ..(3)
3a 3
Combine (2) and (3)
2 1
PD = RD ; MD = RD
5 2
1 2 1
MP = MD PD = RD RD = RD
2 5 10
1
RD
MP 10 1
= = ..(4)
PD 2 4
RD
5
1
Area of AMD = 120 = 30
4
1 1
By (4): Area of AMP = Area of AMD = 30 = 6 (5)
5 5
1
Area of ABN = 120 = 30
4
Area of BQPM = Area of ABN Area of AMP Area of BQN
= 30 6 10 = 14 (by (1) and (5))
G6 In figure 3, find the number of possible paths from point A to

point B following the direction of arrow heads.
Reference 1983 FI4.1, 2000 HI4, 2007 HG5 A 1 1 1 1
The numbers at each of the vertices of in the
4 4
following figure show the number of 1 2 3
possible ways. 1
3 6 10
So the total number of ways = 14 B 14 Figure 3
G7 Find the smallest real root of the equation (x 2)(2x 1) = 5.

2x2 5x 3 = 0
(2x + 1)(x 3) = 0
1
x = or 3
2
1
The smallest real root is .
2
G8 In figure 4, four circles with radius 1 touch each other inside a
square. Find the shaded area. (Correct your answer to the nearest
integer.)
The line segments joining the four centres form a square of sides = 2
Shaded area = 22 12 1
G9 In figure 5, ABCD is a square and points E, F, G, H are the

H
mid-points of sides AB, BC, CD, DA respectively, find the number of A D
right-angled triangles in the figure. (Reference: 1995 HG8)
Let the shortest side of the smallest right-angled triangle be 1.
Then AE = 2 , EH = 2, AB = 2 2 , AC = 4 E G
We count the number of right-angled triangles with different
hypotenuses.
Hypotenuse Number of triangles B C
F
2 8
2 4
2 2 4
4 4
Total number of triangles = 20
G10 A test is composed of 25 multiple-choice questions. 4 marks will be awarded for each correct
answer and 1 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer. A pupil answered all questions
and got 70 marks. How many questions did the pupil answer correctly?
Suppose he answer x questions correctly and 25 x question wrongly.
4x (25 x) = 70
x = 19
Individual Events
2 *1
SI a I1 a I2 a 38 I3 a 10 I4 p 15 I5 a 4
3 see the remark
b 0 b 2 b 104 b 27 q 4 b 5
c 3 c 4 c 100 c 23 r 57 c 24
d 6 d 24 d 50 d 26 s 3 d 57
Group Events
SG a 10 G1 p 4 G2 a 1110 G3 a 90 G4 a 0.13717421 G5 a 4290 GS s 6
b 73 q 3 b 1 b 1 b 90 b 18 b 10
665
c 55 r 2 c 0 c 0 c c 67 c 81
729
d 16 a 9 d 6 d 1 d 50 d 30 d 50
3 1 7 2 3
SI.1 Given that + = and = 6 are simultaneous equations in a and u. Solve for a.
a u 2 a u
11 33
3(1) + (2): =
a 2
2
a=
3
SI.2 Three solutions of the equation px + qy + bz = 1 are (0, 3a, 1), (9a, 1, 2) and (0, 3a, 0). Find
the value of the coefficient b.
3aq + b = 1

9ap q + 2b = 1
3aq = 1

Sub. (3) into (1): 1 + b = 1
b=0
SI.3 Find c so that the graph of y = mx + c passes through the two points (b + 4, 5) and (2, 2).
52 1
The 2 points are: (4, 5) and (2, 2). The slope is = .
4 ( 2 ) 2
1
The line y = x + c passes through (2, 2): 2 = 1 + c
2
c=3
SI.4 The solution of the inequality x2 + 5x 2c 0 is d x 1. Find d.
x2 + 5x 6 0
(x + 6)(x 1) 0
6 x 1
d = 6
Individual Event 1
1 2 1
I1.1 If a is the maximum value of sin 3 cos 2 , find the value of a.
2 2
1 sin 3 1 and 1 cos 2 1
1 2 1 1 1
sin 3 and cos 2
2 2 2 2
1 2 1 1 1
sin 3 cos 2 + = 1 = a,
2 2 2 2
Maximum occur when sin2 3 = 1 and cos 2 = 1
i.e. 3 = 90 + 180n and 2 = 360m + 180, where m, n are integers.
= 30 + 60n = 180m + 90 60n = 180m + 60 n = 3m + 1; let m = 1, n = 4, =270
Remark: the original question is
1 2 1
If a is the maximum value of sin + cos 3 , find the value of a.
2 2
Maximum occur when sin2 = 1 and cos 3 = 1
i.e. = 90 + 180n and 3 = 360m, where m, n are integers.
= 90 + 180n = 120m 3 + 6n = 4m, LHS is odd and RHS is even, contradiction.
The question was wrong because we cannot find any to make the expression a maximum.
x+ y =2

I1.2 If xy z 2 = a , find the value of b.
b = x + y + z

(2), xy = 1 + z2 > 0; together with (1) we have x > 0 and y > 0
by A.M. G.M. in (1) x + y 2 xy 2 2 1 + z 2
After simplification, 0 z2 z = 0
(3): b = x + y + z = 2 + 0 = 2
I1.3 In the figure, BD = b cm, DC = c cm and area of
A
1
ABD = area of ABC, find the value of c.
3
Let the common height be h cm
1 1 1
BD hcm = BC hcm
2 3 2
B D C
1
2 = (2 + c) c = 4
3
I1.4 Suppose d is the number of positive factors of 500 + c, find the value of d.
Reference 1993 HI8, 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 2002 FG4.1, 2005 FI4.4
500 + c = 504 = 23327
A positive factor is in the form 2i3j7k, where 0 i 3, 0 j 2, 0 k 1
The total number of positive factors are (1 + 3)(1 + 2)(1 + 1) = 24
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If A(1, 3), B(5, 8) and C(29, a) are collinear, find the value of a.
83 a 8
The slopes are equal: =
5 1 29 5
a 8 5
=
24 4
a 8 = 30
a = 38
I2.2 In the figure, PA touches the circle ABC at A, PBC is a C

straight line, AB = PB, ACB = a. If ABP = b, find
the value of b. a
B
BAP = a = 38 ( in alt. seg.) b
BPA = 38 (base s isos. )
A P
38 + 38 + b = 180 (s sum of )
b = 104
2
I2.3 If c is the minimum value of the quadratic function y = x + 4x + b, find the value of c.
2
y = x + 4x + 104 = (x + 2)2 + 100 100 = c
I2.4 If d = 1 2 + 3 4 + c, find the value of d.
Reference: 1991 FSI.1
d = (1 2) + (3 4) + + (99 100)
= 1 1 1 (50 times)
= 50
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If {p, q} = q a + p and {2, 5} = 52, find the value of a.
{2, 5} = 5 a + 2 = 52
a = 10
37
I3.2 If a, , b is an arithmetic progression, find the value of b.
2
a + b 37
=
2 2
b = 27
2 2
I3.3 If b c = 200, find the value of c.
2
272 c = 200
c2 = 729 200 = 529
c = 23
I3.4 Given that in the figure, BC // DE, BC : DE = 10 : c A

and AF : FG = 20 : d, find the value of d.
By similar triangles, AF : AG = AC : AE = BC : DE B C
F
20 : (20 + d) = 10 : 23
d = 26 D E
G
Individual Event 4
10 x 3 y y+x
I4.1 Given that = 2 and p = , find the value of p.
x + 2y yx
10x 3y = 2(x + 2y)
8x = 7y
y+x
p=
yx
8 y + 8x
=
8 y 8x
8y + 7 y
= = 15
8y 7 y
I4.2 Given that a b and ax = bx. If p + q = 19(a b)x, find the value of q.
a b and ax = bx x = 0
p + q = 19(a b)x
15 + q = 19
q=4
I4.3 Given that the sum of q consecutive numbers is 222, and the largest of these consecutive
numbers is r, find the value of r.
The smallest integer is r q + 1
q
(r q + 1 + r ) = 222
2
2(2r 3) = 222
r = 57
I4.4 If tan2(r + s) = 3 and 0 r + s 90, find the value of s.
tan2(57 + s) = 3
57 + s = 60
s=3
Individual Event 5
I5.1 If the sum of roots of 5x2 + ax 2 = 0 is twice the product of roots, find the value of a.
+ = 2
a 2
= 2
5 5
a=4
I5.2 Given that y = ax2 bx 13 passes through (3, 8), find the value of b.
8 = 4(3)2 b(3) 13
b=5
I5.3 If there are c ways of arranging b girls in a circle, find the value of c.
Reference: 2000 FG4.4, 2011 FI1.4
First arrange the 5 girls in a line, the number of ways = 54321 = 120
Next, join the first girl and the last girl to form a circle. There are 5 repetitions.
The number of ways = c = 120 5 = 24
c
I5.4 If straight lines and 3 circles are drawn on a paper, and d is the largest numbers of points of
4
intersection, find the value of d.
For the 3 circles, there are 6 intersections.
If each straight line is drawn not passing through these intersections, it intersects the 3 circles
at 6 other points. The 6 straight lines intersect each other at 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 points.
d = the largest numbers of points of intersection = 6 + 66 + 15 = 57
Sample Group Event

SG.1 If a is the smallest positive integer which gives remainder 1 when divided by 3 and is a
multiple of 5, find the value of a. (Reference: 1997 FG5.1)
a = 5k = 3m + 1
The smallest possible a = 10.
SG.2 In the following diagram, FA//DC and FE//BC. Find the

A B
value of b.
Join AD and CF. 73

Let CFE = x, AFC = y x
F
BCF = x (alt. s, FE // BC) y C
DCF = y (alt. s, FA // DC) b
BCD = x + y D
E
BAD = 180 x y = ADE (opp. cyclic quad.)
AB // ED (alt. s eq.)
b = 73 (alt. s AB // ED)
SG.3 If c is a 2 digit positive integer such that sum of its digits is 10 and product of its digit is 25,
find the value of c. (Reference: 1997 FG5.3)
c = 10x + y, where 0 < x <10, 0 y < 10.

x + y = 10
xy = 25
Solving these two equations gives x = y = 5; c = 55
SG.4 Let S1, S2,, S10 be the first ten terms of an A.P., which consists of positive integers.
If S1 + S2 ++ S10 = 55 and (S10 S8) + (S9 S7) ++ (S3 S1) = d, find d.
Let the general term be Sn = a + (n 1)t
10
[2a + (10 1)t ] = 55
2
2a + 9t = 11
Q a, t are positive integers, a = 1, t = 1
d = (S10S8)+(S9S7)++ (S3 S1)
= [a + 9t (a + 7t)] + [a + 8t (a + 6t)] + + (a+2ta)
d = 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t
= 16t = 16
Group Event 1
G1.1 If the area of a given sector s = 4 cm2, the radius of this sector r = 2 cm and the arc length of
this sector A = p cm, find the value of p.
1
By the formula A = rs , where A is the sector area, r is the radius and s is the arc length
2
4 = (2 ) p
1
2
p=4
a b c 2b + c
G1.2 Given that = = and a + b + c 0. If q = , find the value of q.
2b + c 2c + a 2a + b a
a b c
Let = = =k
2b + c 2c + a 2a + b
a = (2b + c)k; b = (2c + a)k; c = (2a + b)k
a + b + c = (2b + c + 2c + a + 2a + b)k
a + b + c = (3a + 3b + 3c)k
1
k=
3
2b + c 1
q= = =3
a k
G1.3 Let ABC be a right-angled triangle, CD is the altitude on AB, AC = 3, A
5
DB = , AD = r, find the value of r.
2
3 AC 9
AD = AC cos A = =5
AB 2 + AD
D
5
AD + AD2 = 9
2
2AD2 + 5AD 18 = 0
(2AD + 9)(AD 2) = 0 B C
AD = r = 2
G1.4 If x3 + px2 + qx + 17 (x + 2)3 + a, find the value of a.
Compare the constant term: 17 = 8 + a
a=9
Group Event 2
137
G2.1 If = 0.12& 34& , find the value of a.
a
137 234 999 + 234 1233 137
= 0.12& 34& = 0.1 + = = =
a 9990 9990 9990 1110
a = 1110
G2.2 If b = 199919981998 199819991999 + 1, find the value of b.
b = 199919981001 199819991001 + 1 = 1
x = 3 t 2
G2.3 If the parametric equation can be transformed into x2 + y2 + cx + dy + 6 = 0, find
y = t 3
the values of c and d.
(1)2 + (2)2 : x2 + y2 = 6t + 12 = 6(y + 3) + 12
c = 0, d = 6
Group Event 3
G3.1 In ABC, ABC = 2ACB, BC = 2AB. If BAC = a, find
A
the value of a.
Reference: 2001 HG8 c
Let ACB = , ABC = 2 (given)
AB = c, BC = 2c
BAC = 180 2 (s sum of ) 2
c 2c B 2c C
=
By sine formula,
(
sin sin 180 o 3 )
sin 3 = 2sin
3 sin 4 sin3 = 2 sin
4 sin2 1 = 0
1
sin = ; = 30, BAC = 180 3 = 90; a = 90
2
Method 2 Let ACB = , ABC = 2 (given) A
Let S be the mid-point of BC.
Let N and M be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from S on
AC and B from AS respectively. c M N

BSM BAM (RHS)
RQN = = SQN (corr. s, 's)
B c S c C
CSN BSM BAM (AAS)
NS = MS = AM (corr. sides 's)
NS 1
sin NAS = = ; NAS = 30;
AS 2
ASN = 60 (s sum of ASN)
90 + 60 + 90 = 180 (adj. s on st. line BSC)
= 30
BAC = 180 3 = 90 (s sum of ABC); a = 90
1 x2
G3.2 Given that x + = 2 , 4 = b, find the value of b.
x x + x2 +1
2
1 1 1
x + = 2 x + 2 + 2 = 2 x + 2 = 0 (remark: x is a complex number)
2 2
x x x
2
x 1
b= 4 = 2 =1
x + x + 1 x + 1 + x12
2
G3.3 If the number of positive integral root(s) of the equation x + y + 2xy = 141 is c,
2x + 2y + 4xy = 282 2x + 2y + 4xy + 1 = 283, which is a prime number
(2x + 1)(2y + 1) = 1283
2x + 1 = 1, 2y + 1 = 283
Solving the above equations, there is no positive integral roots; c = 0
G3.4 Given that x + y + z = 0, x2 + y2 + z2 = 1 and d = 2(x4 + y4 + z4), find the value of d.
1
(x + y + z)2 = 0 x2 + y2 + z2 + 2(xy + yz + zx) = 0 xy + yz + zx =
2
1 1 1
(xy + yz + zx)2 = x2y2 + y2z2 + z2x2 + 2xyz(x + y + z) = x2y2 + y2z2 + z2x2 =
4 4 4
1
(x2 +y2 + z2)2 = 1 x4 + y4 + z4 + 2(x2y2 + y2z2 + z2x2) = 1 d = 21 2 = 1
4
Group Event 4
G4.1 If 0.1& + 0.02& + 0.003& ++ 0.000000009& = a, find the value of a (Give your answer in decimal)
1 2 3 9 100000000 + 20000000 + 3000000 + L + 9
a= + + +L+ =
9 90 900 900000000 900000000
123456789 13717421
a= = = 0.13717421
900000000 100000000
G4.2 The circle in the figure has centre O and radius 1, A and B are
Area of shaded part 2
points on the circle. Given that =
Area of unshaded part 3 + 2 O
and AOB = b, find the value of b. 1
Area of shaded part 2 2 b
= =
Area of the circle 2 + 3 + 2 4 A B
(1) 360 2 (1) sin b 2 b
2 b 1 2 o
= 2sin b = 2; b = 90
(1) 4
2
90
G4.3 A sequence of figures S0, S1, S2, are constructed as follows. S0 is obtained by removing the
middle third of [0,1] interval; S1 by removing the middle third of each of the two intervals in
S0; S2 by removing the middle third of each of the four intervals in S1; S3, S4, are obtained
similarly. Find the total length c of the intervals removed in the construction of S5 (Give your
answer in fraction).
|( )| S0
1 2
0 1
3 3
|( )( )( )| S1
1 2 1 2 7 8
0 1
9 9 3 3 9 9
|( )( )( ) ( )( )( )( )| S2
2
The total length in S0 =
3
1 4
The total length in S1 = 4 =
9 9
1 8
27 27
1 64
Deductively, the total length in S5 = 26 6
=
3 729
64 665
The total length removed in S5 = 1 =
729 729
G4.4 All integers are coded as shown in the following table. If the sum of all integers coded from
101 to 200 is d, find the value of d.
Integer 3 2 1 0 1 2 3
Code 7 5 3 1 2 4 6
Sum of integers code as 102, 104, , 200 is 51 + 52 + + 100
Sum of integers code as 101, 103, , 199 is 50 51 99
Sum of all integers = 1 + 1 + + 1 (50 times) = 50
Group Event 5
G5.1 If 123 + 234 + 345 ++ 101112 = a, find the value of a.
a = n(n + 1)(n + 2 )(n + 3)
1
4
= 10(11)(12 )(13) = 4290
1
4
G5.2 Given that 5x + 5x = 3. If 53x + 53x = b, find the value of b.
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1996FI1.2, 2010 FI3.2
(5x + 5x)2 = 9
52x + 2 + 52x = 9
52x + 52x = 7
b = 53x + 53x
= (5x + 5x)(52x 1 + 52x)
= 3(7 1) = 18
G5.3 Given that the roots of equation x2 + mx + n = 0 are 98 and 99 and y = x2 + mx + n. If x takes
on the values of 0, 1, 2, , 100, then there are c values of y that can be divisible by 6. Find
the value of c.
m = 98 99 = 197; n = 9899 = 49336, which is divisible by 6
y = x2 197x + 9899
= x2 + x 198x + 49336
= x(x + 1) 6(33x + 4933)
If y is divisible by 6, then x(x + 1) is divisible by 6
One of x, x + 1 must be even. If it is divisible by 6, then one of x, x + 1 must be divisible by 3.
We count the number of possible x for which y cannot be divisible by 6
These x may be 1, 4, 7, 10, , 97, 100; totally 34 possible x.
c = 101 34 = 67
G5.4 In the figure, ABCD is a square, BF // AC, and
F
AEFC is a rhombus. If EAC= d, find the
value of d. D C
Reference HKCEE Mathematics 1992 P2 Q54
From B and E draw 2 lines h, k AC
h
h = k (QBF // AC)
Let AB = x, CAB = 45 k E
x
k = x sin 45 = =h
2 A x B
AC = x cos 45
= 2 x = AE (QAEFC is a rhombus)
h
sin EAC =
AE
x
2 1
= =
2x 2
d = 30
Group Spare Event

GS.1 In the figure, there are two common
tangents. These common tangents meet the
circles at points A, B, C and D. If AC =9 cm,
BD = 3 cm, BAC = 60 and AB = s cm,
find the value of s.
Produce AB and CD to meet at E.
AE = CE, BE = DE (tangent from ext. pt.)
EAC and EBD are isosceles triangles
ECA = BAC = 60 (base s isos. )
AEC = 60 (s sum of )
EBD = EDB = 60 (s sum of , base s isos. )
EAC and EBD are equilateral triangles
EB = BD = 3 cm, EA = AC = 9 cm (sides of equilateral triangles)
s=93=6
GS.2 In the figure, ABCD is a quadrilateral, where the interior angles
A, B and D are all equal to 45. When produced, BC is
perpendicular to AD. If AC = 10 and BD = b, find the value of b.
reflex BCD = 360 45 45 45 = 225 (s sum of polygon)
BCD = 360 225 = 135 (s at a point)
Produce BC to meet AD at E, AEB = 90 (given)
BAE = 45 = ABE (given) B
ABE and CDE are right angled isosceles triangles
Let AE = x, DE = y, then BE = x, CE = y, BC = x y x-y
C
In ACE, x2 + y2 = 102 (1) (Pythagoras theorem) 10
y
CD = y 2 + y 2 = 2 y (Pythagoras theorem) A x E y D
Apply cosine rule on BCD
BD2 = (x y)2 + 2y2 2(x y) 2 y cos 135
BD2 = x2 2xy + y2 + 2y2 + 2(x y)y = x2 + y2 = 102

BD = b = 10
GS.3 If logc 27 = 0.75, find the value of c.
c0.75 = 27
( )
4
c = 33 3 = 81
GS.4 If the mean, mode and median of the data 30, 80, 50, 40, d are all equal, find the value of d.
30 + 80 + 50 + 40 + d d
Mean = = 40 + = mode
5 5
By trial and error, d = 50
96-97 1 30 2 18 3 1854 4 4 5 5050

Individual 6 4:1 7 0 8 30 9 17 10 2
1
1 10000 2 3 1:6 4 25 5 4
96-97 50
Group 1
6 24 7 7 8 8 9 30 10
12
Individual Events
I1 Let n be a positive integer. If n2 = 29p + 1, where p is a prime number, find the value of n.
29p = n2 1
29p = (n + 1)(n 1)
29 and p are prime number
29 = n + 1, p = n 1 or 29 = n 1 or p = n + 1
Solving the two systems of equations: p = 27 or p = 31
27 is not a prime number p = 27 is rejected
p = 31, n = 30
1 5
I2 If the width of a rectangle is increased by m, its area will be increased by m2. If its
3 3
1 9
length is decreased by m, its area will be decreased by m2. Let the area of the rectangle
2 5
be x m2, find the value of x.
Let the width of the rectangle be a m, its length be b m.
1 5
a 3 b x 3 ab b x 1
1 5
3 3

a b 1 x 9 ab a x 9 2
1
2 5 2 5
1 5 1 5
x 3 b x 3 3 b 3
ab = x
1
x a x 9 1 a 9
2 5 2 5
18
a= ,b=5
5
x = ab = 18
I3 If s is the sum of all positive factors of 1234, find the value of s.
1234 = 2617 and 617 is a prime number
All positive factors are 1, 2, 617, 1234.
Sum of all positive factors = s = 1 + 2 + 617 + 1234 = 1854
1 x2 2x 3 x5
I4 Let x , find the value of 2 .
x x 1 x 3x 6
1
x x2 = 1 x = 1 or 1
x
x2 2x 3
However, is undefined for x = 1
x 1
Put x = 1 into
x2 2x 3
2
x5
=
12 2 1 3 1 5
= 4
x 1 x 3x 6 11 1 3 1 6
2
I5 Find the value of 12 22 + 32 42 + + 992 1002.

Reference: 2002 FG2.3, 2004 HI1, 2015 FI3.2, 2015 FG4.1
12 22 + 32 42 + + 992 1002 = (12 22) + (32 42) + + (992 1002)
= (1 + 2)(1 2) + (3 + 4)(3 4) ++ (99 + 100)(99 100)
= 3 7 199 (sum of 50 terms of A.P., common difference = 4)
3 199
= 50
2
= 5050
x y
I6 If yz : zx : xy 1 : 2 : 3, find : .
yz zx
xyz xyz xyz
yz : zx : xy 1 : 2 : 3 : : 1:2:3
x y z
1 1 1
: : =1:2:3
x y z
1 1
x:y:z=1: :
2 3
x:y:z=6:3:2
Let x = 6k, y = 3k, z = 2k
x y 6k 3k 1
: = : =1: =4:1
yz zx 3k 2k 2k 6k 4
I7 Find the real roots of the equation: x(x + 1)(x2 + x + 1) = x.
x = 0 or (x + 1)(x2 + x + 1) = 1
x = 0 or x3 + 2x2 + 2x + 1 = 1
x = 0 or x3 + 2x2 + 2x = 0
x = 0 or x2 + 2x + 2 = 0
x = 0 or no solution ( = 22 42 = 4 < 0)
I8 There are 6 students in a class. Everyone sends one Christmas card to each of the rest of the
class. Find the total number of cards sent out by the class.
The total number of cards sent out = 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = 30
I9 If 2x2 8x + k 2(x 2)2 + 9, find the value of k.
Put x = 0, k = 2(2)2 + 9 = 17
I10 If the ten-digit number 1357p1357p is divisible by 9, find the value of p.
1 + 3 + 5 + 7 + p + 1 + 3 + 5 + 7 + p = 9m, where m is an integer.
32 + 2p = 9m (*)
1 + 24 = 9
32 + 2128 = 932
p = 128, m = 32 is a solution to (*)
General solution is p = 128 + 9k, m = 32 + 2k, where k is an integer.
0p9
0 128 + 9k 9
128 119
k
9 9
2 2
14 k 13
9 9
k = 14
p = 128 914 = 2
Group Events
G1 If a1, a2, a3, and b1, b2, b3, are arithmetic sequences, where a1 = 25, b1 = 75 and
a100 + b100 = 100. Find the sum of the first 100 terms of the sequence a1 + b1, a2 + b2, .
an = 25 + (n 1)d1, bn = 75 + (n 1)d2
a100 + b100 = 100 25 + 99d1 + 75 + 99d2 = 100
99d1 + 99d2 = 0
d1 + d2 = 0
an + bn = 25 + (n 1)d1 + 75 + (n 1)d2
= 100 + (n 1)(d1 + d2)
= 100
Let sn = sum of the first n terms of a1 + b1, a2 + b2,
s100 = (a1 + b1) + (a2 + b2) + + (a100 + b100)
= 100 + 100 + + 100 = 10000
2x
G2 If f (x) = and x1 = 1, xn = f (xn1), find x99 . (Reference: 1999 FI2.4)
x2
2 2
x2 = =
1 2 3
2 2 1 2
x3 = 2 3 = =
3
2 2 4
2 1 2
x4 = 1 2 =
2
2 5
2
Claim: xn = for n = 1, 2, 3,
n 1
Proof: n = 1, 2, 3, 4, proved above.
2
Suppose xk = for some positive integer k.
k 1
2 2 4 2
xk+1 = 2 k 1 = =
k 1
2 2k 4 k 2
By M.I., it is true for all positive integer n.
2 1
x99 = =
100 50
G3 ABCD is a trapezium, where AB // DC and D C
area of DCE : area of DCB 1 : 3,

E
find area of DEC : area of ABD.
Reference 1993 HI2, 2000 FI2.2, 2002 FI1.3, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2 A B
DCE and DCB have the same base

DE : DB = 1 : 3 DE : EB = 1 : 2
DCE ~ BAE area of DCE : area of BAE = 1 : 4
ADE and ABE have the same base
Area of ADE : area of ABE = DE : EB = 1 : 2
Area of ABD : area of ABE = 3 : 2
1 3 1
area of DEC : area of ABD = = = 1 : 6
4 2 6
222
G4 Let x be a positive integer. If x 1 1 1 is divisible by 3, find the least possible
333
value of x.
222
x 1 1 1 = 3m, where m is an integer.
333
22 2
2 x 1 1 9m
33 3
42 5
x 2 9m
33 3
4(2x 5) = 9(9m + 2)
8x 81m = 38 (*)
8(10) 81(1) = 1
8(380) 81(38) = 38
x = 380, m = 38 is a solution to (*)
General solution is x = 380 + 81k, m = 38 + 8k, where k is an integer.
For the least positive integral value of x, 380 + 81k > 0
380 56
k> =4
81 81
The least integral value of k = 5
x = 380 + 815 = 25
G5 Pipe A alone takes 20 hours to fill a tank and pipe B takes 5 hours to fill the same tank alone.
If pipes A and B together take x hours to fill the tank, find the value of x.
1 1 1
=
x 20 5
1 1
=
x 4
x=4
G6 Each interior angle of a regular polygon exceeds the exterior angle by 150. Find the number
of sides of the polygon. Reference: 1989 HI3
Let x be the size of each interior angle, y be the size of each exterior angle, n be the number of
sides.
180 n 2 360
x= ,y=
n n
x = y + 150
180 n 2 360
= + 150
n n
180(n 2) = 360 + 150n
18n 36 = 36 + 15n
n = 24
1 1
G7 If x 3 , find the value of x 2 2 . (Reference: 1989 HI1)
x x
2
1
x 9
x
1
x2 2 2 9
x
1
x2 2 = 7
x
G8 Five numbers are in arithmetic progression. If the largest number is 7 times the smallest one
and the average of the five numbers is 32, find the smallest number.
Let the five numbers be 32 2d, 32 d, 32, 32 + d, 32 + 2d
32 + 2d = 7(32 2d)
16d = 192 d = 12
The smallest number = 32 2(12) = 8
G9 In the figure, three identical circles with radius r cm are tightly enclosed

in a triangle. If the perimeter of the triangle is 180 180 3 cm, find r.
6r tan 60 + 6r = 180 180 3
( 3 + 1)r = 30(1 + 3 )
r = 30
G10 Two fair dice are thrown. Find the probability that the sum is less than 5 and at least one die is
a 2.
Favourable outcome ={(2, 1), (2, 2), (1, 2)}
3 1
Probability = =
36 12
Answers: (1996-97 HKMO Final Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 13 September 2015
Individual Events
2
I1 a I2 a 12 I3 P 8 I4 n 9 I5 a 6
3
b 0 b 36 Q 12 b 3 b 30
c 3 c 12 R 4 c 8 c 4
d 6 d 5 S 70 d 62 d 4
Group Events
Group
G1 a 180 G2 a 1 G3 m 3 G4 a 99999919 G5 a 10 a 4
Spare
b 7 b 2 b 1 b 1 b 9 k 2
c 9 c 1 c 1.6 c 2 c 55 d 8.944
25
d 4 d 120 d 2 d 1891 d 16 r
24
3 1 7 2 3
I1.1 Given that + = and = 6 are simultaneous equations in a and u. Solve for a.
a u 2 a u
11 33
3(1) + (2): =
a 2
2
a=
3
I1.2 Three solutions of the equation px + qy + bz = 1 are (0, 3a, 1), (9a, 1, 2) and (0, 3a, 0). Find
3aq + b = 1

9ap q + 2b = 1
3aq = 1

Sub. (3) into (1): 1 + b = 1

b=0
I1.3 Find c so that the graph of y = mx + c passes through the two points (b + 4, 5) and (2, 2).
52 1
4 ( 2 ) 2
1
2
c=3
I1.4 The solution of the inequality x2 + 5x 2c 0 is d x 1. Find d.
x2 + 5x 6 0
(x + 6)(x 1) 0
6 x 1
d = 6
Individual Event 2
12 12 + 2 2 5 12 + 2 2 + 3 2 7 12 + 2 2 + 32 + 4 2
I2.1 By considering: =1, = , = , = 3 , find a such that
1 1+ 2 3 1+ 2 + 3 3 1+ 2 + 3 + 4
12 + 2 2 + L + a 2 25
= .
1+ 2 +L+ a 3
12 3 12 + 2 2 5 12 + 2 2 + 3 2 7 12 + 2 2 + 32 + 4 2 9
The given is equivalent to: = , = , = , =
1 3 1+ 2 3 1+ 2 + 3 3 1+ 2 + 3 + 4 3
and 21 + 1 = 3, 22 + 1 = 5, 23 + 1 = 7, 24 + 1 = 9; so 2a + 1 = 25
a = 12
I2.2 A triangular pyramid is cut from a corner of a cube with
side length a cm as the figure shown. If the volume of the
pyramid is b cm3, find b.
1 1 1 a 12 a 1
b = base area height = 2 a
3 3 2 2
1 3 1
= a = 12 3 = 36
48 48
I2.3 If the value of x2 + cx + b is not less than 0 for all real number x, find the maximum value of c
x2 + cx + 36 0
= c2 4(36) 0
c 12
The maximum value of c = 12.
I2.4 If the unit digit of 19971997 is c d, find d.
19971997 71997 74(499)+1 7 (mod 10)
The unit digit of 19971997 is 7
12 d = 7
d=5
Individual Event 3
I3.1 The average of a, b c and d is 8. If the average of a, b, c, d and P is P, find P.
a+b+c+d
=8
4
a + b + c + d = 32
a+b+c+d + P
=P
5
32 + P = 5P
P=8
I3.2 If the lines 2x + 3y + 2 = 0 and Px + Qy + 3 = 0 are parallel, find Q.
2 8
Their slopes are equal: =
3 Q
Q = 12
I3.3 The perimeter and the area of an equilateral triangle are Q cm and 3R cm2 respectively.
Find R.
Perimeter = 12 cm, side = 4 cm
1
Area = 4 2 sin 60 o = 4 3
2
R=4
I3.4 If (1 + 2 + + R)2 = 12 + 22 + + R2 + S, find S.
(1 + 2 + 3 + 4)2 = 12 + 22 + 32 + 42 +S
100 = 30 + S
S = 70
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If each interior angle of a n-sided regular polygon is 140, find n.
Each exterior angle is 40 (adj. s on st. line)
360 o
= 40 o
n
n=9
I4.2 If the solution of the inequality 2x2 nx + 9 < 0 is k < x < b, find b.
2x2 9x + 9 < 0
(2x 3)(x 3) < 0
3
<x<3
2
b=3
I4.3 If cx3 bx + x 1 is divided by x + 1, the remainder is 7, find c.
f (x) = cx3 3x + x 1
f (1) = c + 3 1 1 = 7
c=8
1 1
I4.4 If x + = c and x 2 + 2 = d , find d.
x x
1
x+ =8
x
2
1
x + = 64
x
1
x 2 + 2 + 2 = 64
x
d = 62
Individual Event 5
I5.1 The volume of a hemisphere with diameter a cm is 18 cm3, find a.
2
1 a
4 = 18
2 2
a=6
I5.2 If sin 10a = cos(360 b) and 0 < b < 90, find b.
sin 60 = cos(360 b)
360 b = 330
b = 30
I5.3 The triangle is formed by the x-axis and y-axis and the line bx + 2by = 120. If the bounded
area of the triangle is c, find c.
30x + 60y = 120
x + 2y = 4
x-intercept = 4, y-intercept = 2
1
c = 42= 4
2
I5.4 If the difference of the two roots of the equation x2 (c + 2)x + (c + 1) = 0 is d, find d.
x2 6x + 5 = 0
(x 1)(x 5) = 0
x = 1 or 5
d=51=4
Group Event 1
G1.1 In the given diagram, A + B + C + D + E = a, find a. A

In APQ, B + D = AQP (1) (ext. of ) E Q P
B
C + E = APQ (2) (ext. of )
A+B + C + D +E = A + AQP +APQ (by (1) and (2))
= 180 (s sum of )
D C
a = 180
G1.2 There are x terms in the algebraic expression x6 + x6 + x6 + + x6 and its sum is xb. Find b.
xx6 = xb
x7 = xb
b=7
3c 1
G1.3 If 1 + 3 + 32 + 33 + +38 = , find c.
2
39 1 3c 1
=
2 2
c=9
G1.4 16 cards are marked from 1 to 16 and one is drawn at random. If the chance of it being a
1
perfect square number is , find d.
d
Reference: 1995 HI4
Perfect square numbers are 1, 4, 9, 16.
4 1
Probability = =
16 d
d = 4.
Group Event 2
G2.1 If the sequence 1, 6 + 2a, 10 + 5a, forms an A.P., find a.
1 + 10 + 5a
6 + 2a =
2
12 + 4a = 11 + 5a
a=1
1
G2.2 If (0.002540)b = , find b.
100
b
1 1
40 =
400 100
1 1
b
= 2
10 10
b=2
3 1
G2.3 If c is an integer and c 3 + 3c + + 3 = 8 , find c.
c c
3
1
c + = 8
c
1
c+ =2
c
c2 2c + 1 = 0
c=1
G2.4 There are d different ways for arranging 5 girls in a row. Find d.
First position has 5 choices; 2nd position has 4 choices, , the last position has 1 choice.
d = 54321 = 120
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let m be an integer satisfying the inequality 14x 7(3x 8) < 4(25 + x).
Find the least value of m.
14x 21x + 56 < 100 + 4x
44 < 11x
4 < x
m = 3
G3.2 It is given that f ( x ) = x 3 2 x 2 + x 3 + 3 x 2 + 5 x + 7 4 x . If f(2) = b, find b.
1 2
3 3
f (x) = x3 + x2 + x + 7
b = f(2) = 8 + 4 2 + 7 = 1
x y
G3.3 It is given that log = 0.5 and log = 0.1 . If log xy = c, find c.
2 5
x y
log + log = 0.5 + 0.1
2 5
log xy 1 = 0.6
c = log xy = 1.6
G3.4 Three prime numbers d, e and f which are all less than 10, satisfy the two conditions d + e = f
and d < e. Find d.
Possible prime numbers are 2, 3, 5, 7.
d = 2, e = 3, f = 5
Group Event 4
G4.1 It is given that a = 1039710009, find a.
a = (100 + 3)(100 3)10009
= (10000 9)(10000 + 9)
= 100000000 81
a = 99999919
G4.2 It is given that 1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4 = 0. If b = 2 + x + x2 + x3 + x4 + + x1989, find b.
b = 1 + (1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4) + x5(1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4)+ + x1985(1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4) = 1
G4.3 It is given that m and n are two national numbers and both are not greater that 10. If c is the
1 1
number of pairs of m and n satisfying the equation mx = n, where < x < , find c.
4 3
1 m 1 n n
< < <m<
4 n 3 4 3
4 m n > 0

3m n < 0
3m < n < 4m
1 m 3 3m < n < 4m 410 = 40
Possible n = 4, 5, 6, , 10
4 4
when n = 4, <m< no solution
4 3
5 5
4 3
6 6
4 3
7 7 2
when n = 7, < m < m = 2, x =
4 3 7
8 8
4 3
9 9
4 3
10 10 3
when n = 10, < m < m = 3, x =
4 3 10
c = 2 (There are 2 solutions.)
G4.4 Let x and y be real numbers and define the operation * as x*y = pxy + q + 1.
It is given that 1*2 = 869 and 2*3 = 883. If 2*9 = d, find d.
p + q + 1 = 869

8 p + q + 1 = 883
(2) (1): 7p = 14
p = 2, q = 866
d = 229 + 866 + 1 = 1891
Group Event 5
G5.1 If a is a positive multiple of 5, which gives remainder 1 when divided by 3, find the smallest
possible value of a. (Reference: 1998 FSG.1)
a = 5k = 3m + 1
52 = 33 + 1
G5.2 If x3 + 6x2 + 12x + 17 = (x + 2)3 + b, find b.
(x + 2)3 + b = x3 + 6x2 + 12x + 8 + b
b=9
G5.3 If c is a 2 digit positive integer such that sum of its digits is 10 and product of its digit is 25,
find c. (Reference: 1998 FSG.3)
c = 10x + y, where 0 < x < 10, 0 y < 10.
x + y = 10
xy = 25
G5.4 Let S1, S2,, S10 be the first ten terms of an A.P., which consists of positive integers.
Reference: 1998 FSG.4
10
[2a + (10 1)t ] = 55
2
2a + 9t = 11
d = (S10 S8) + (S9 S7) + + (S3 S1)
= [a + 9t (a + 7t)] + [a + 8t (a + 6t)] + + (a + 2t a)
d = 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t = 16t = 16
Group Spare
GS.1 ABCD is a parallelogram and E is the midpoint of CD. If the ratio of the area of the triangle
ADE to the area of the parallelogram ABCD is 1 : a, find a.
1:a=1:4
a=4
GS.2 ABCD is a parallelogram and E is the midpoint of CD.
A B
AE and BD meet at M. If DM : MB = 1 : k, find k.
It is easy to show that ABM ~ EDM (equiangular)
DM : MB = DE : AB = 1 : 2 M
k=2
D 1 E 1 C
GS.3 If the square root of 5 is approximately 2.236, the square root of 80 with the same precision is
d. Find d.
80 = 16 5 = 4 5 = 42.236 = 8.944
GS.4 A square is changed into a rectangle by increasing its length by 20% and decreasing its width
by 20%. If the ratio of the area of the rectangle to the area of the square is 1 : r, find r.
Let the side of the square be x
Ratio of areas = 1.2x0.8x : x2
25
= 0.96 : 1 = 1 :
24
25
r=
24
1 0 2 x6 x3 + 1 3 24 4 11 5 29
95-96
229 31
Individual 6 (2, 2) 7 216 8 =2 9 40 10 (xy)(yz)(zx)
99 99
1 49
1 6 2 3 3 cm 3 91 4 5
95-96 5 100
Group 365
6 432 7 400 8 9 6 10 5
38
Individual Events
I1 Find x if 4x3 = 8x2.
22(x 3) = 23(x 2)
2(x 3) = 3(x 2)
x=0
1 x x 1 1
2
I2 If f , find f (x3).
x
2
x x
1 x
Let y = , then xy = 1 + x
x
1
x=
y 1
1 1
f (y) = 1 2
x x
= 1 y 1 y 1
2
= y + y2 2y + 1
= y2 y + 1
f (y3) = y6 y3 + 1
f (x3) = x6 x3 + 1
I3 By considering n! = n(n 1) (n 2) 321, find the number of trailing zeros of 100!.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
When each factor of 5 is multiplied by 2, a trailing zero will appear in the product.
5, 10, 15, , 100; altogether 20 numbers, have at least one factor of 5.
25, 50, 75, 100; altogether 4 numbers, have two factors of 5.
There are 24 trailing zeros of 100!
I4 What is the largest integral value n that satisfies the inequality n200 < 5300 ?
Reference: 1999 FG5.3, 2008 FI4.3
n2 < 53 = 125
n < 125 < 144 = 12
The largest integral n = 11
I5 A set of 110 stamps of the denominations of $0.1, $3, $5 worth $100 in total.
Find the number of $3 stamps in the set of stamps.
Suppose there are x $0.1 stamps, y $3 stamps, (110 x y) $5 stamps; where x and y are
integers.
0.1x + 3y + 5(110 x y) = 100
x + 30y + 50(110 x y) = 1000
49x + 20y = 4500 (*)
49 = 202 + 9 (1) 9 = 49 202 (1)
20 = 92 + 2 (2) 2 = 20 92 (2)
9 = 24 + 1 (3) 1 = 9 24 (3)
Sub. (1) into (2): 2 = 20 (49 202)2 (4)
2 = 205 492 (5)
Sub. (1) and (5) into (3): 1 = (49 202) (205 492)4
1 = 499 2022
Multiply by 4500: 4940500 + 20(99000) = 4500
x = 40500, y = 99000 is a particular solution to (*)
The general solution is x = 40500 20m, y = 99000 + 49m, where m is an integer.
x > 0 and y > 0 and 110 x y > 0
40500 20m > 0 and 99000 + 49m > 0 and 110 (40500 20m) (99000 + 49m) > 0
20
2025 > m > 2020 and 58610 > 29m
49
20 1
2025 > m > 2020 and 2021 > m
49 29
m = 2021; y = 99000 + 492021 = 29
Method 2 (*) can be written as 49x = 20(225 y)
49 and 20 are relatively prime
x is divisible by 20 and 225 y is divisible by 49
x 225 y y 110 x y
20 49 176 no solution
80 196 29 1
y = 29
I6 For any value of m, a straight line y = mx + 2m + 2 passes through a fixed point P. Find the
coordinates of P. Reference: 1990 HI5, 1991 HI6
Put m = 0, y = 2
Put m = 1 and y = 2 x = 2
The coordinates of P is (2, 2).
I7 How many 3-digit numbers can be made from the figures 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 when repetitions are
allowed?
The number of 3-digit numbers = 63 = 216
I8 Express 2.3 1 as a fraction.
Let a = 2.3 1
100a = 231.3 1
100a a = 229
229 31
a= =2
99 99
I9 If x and y are positive integers and x y = 5, find the least value of x2 y2 + 5.

x y = 5 x = 5 + y (1)
Sub. (1) into x2 y2 + 5 = (5 + y)2 y2 + 5
= 30 + 10y
y 1 30 + 10y 40
The least value of x2 y2 + 5 is 40.
I10 Factorize x2(y z) + y2(z x) + z2(x y).
Let f (x, y, z) = x2(y z) + y2(z x) + z2(x y)
f (x, y, z) = f (y, z, x) = f (z, x, y)
f (x, y, z) is a cyclic expression of order 3.
f (x, x, z) = x2(x z) + x2(z x) + z2(x x) = 0
(x y) is a factor
By symmetry, (y z) and (z x) are factors
f (x, y, z) = k(x y)(y z)(z x)
Compare the coefficients of x2y: k = 1
k = 1
x2(y z) + y2(z x) + z2(x y) = (x y)(y z)(z x)
Group Events
G1 In the figure, the quadratic curve y = f (x) cuts the x-axis
at the two points (1, 0) and (5, 0) and the y-axis at the
point (0, 10). Find the value of p.
f (x) = k(x 1)(x 5)
It passes through (0, 10) f (0) = 10
10 = k(0 1)(0 5) k = 2
f (x) = 2(x 1)(x 5)
f (4) = p = 2(4 1)(4 5) = 6
G2 In the figure, O is the centre of the base circle of a cone
and the points A, B, C and O lie in the same plane. An ant
walks from A to B on the surface of the cone. Find the
length of the shortest path from A to B.
Let the vertex of the cone be V.
If we cut the curved surface of the cone along OA, a
sector VACA is formed with C as the mid-point of AA .
Let AVB = (in degree), then AVB =
ACA = circumference of the base = 4 cm
V
2
2 6 = 4 6 cm
360 6 cm
3 cm
= 60
The shortest distance = the line segment AB B A
A'
By cosine rule, AB2 = [32 + 62 2(3)(6) cos 60] cm2
AB = 3 3 cm 4cm
C
G3 When a sum of $7020, in the form of ten-dollar notes, is divided equally among x persons,
$650 remains. When this sum $650 is changed to five-dollar coins and then divided equally
among the x persons, $195 remains. Find x.
Suppose each person gets a pieces of ten-dollar notes and b five-dollar coins.
7020 = 10ax + 650 (1), a, x are positive integers and x > 65
650 = 5bx + 195 (2), b, x are positive integers and x > 1955 = 39
From (1): 637 = ax (3)
From (2): 91 = bx (4)
From (3): 637 = 791 = 7713
The only positive factor of 91 is 91 which is greater than 65.
x = 91
G4 In a shooting competition, according to statistics, A misses one in every 5 shoots, B misses
one in every 4 shoots and C misses one in every 3 shoots. Find the probability of obtaining
successful shoots by A, B but not C.
4 3 1 1
Probability = =
5 4 3 5
1 1 1 1 1 1
G5 Given that , find the value of .
nn 1 n n 1 2 3 3 4 99 100
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 49
= = =
2 3 3 4 99 100 2 3 3 4 99 100 2 100 100
1
G6 If 3 is added to a 3-digit number A, the sum of the digits of the new number is of the value
3
of the sum of digits of the original number A. Find the sum of all such possible numbers A.
Let A = 100a + 10b + c
New number = 100a + 10b + c + 3
1
If c 6, a + b + c + 3 = (a + b + c)
3
2(a + b + c) + 9 = 0, no solution
If new number = 100a + 10(b + 1) + c + 3 10 = 100a + 10(b + 1) + c 7, c 7
1
a + b + 1 + c 7 = ( a + b + c)
3
2(a + b + c) 18 = 0
a+b+c=9
a b c A
1 0 8 108
1 1 7 117
2 0 7 207
If a 8, b = 9 and c 7, new number = 100(a + 1) + c 7
1
a + 1 + c 7 = (a + b + c)
3
2(a + c) 18 = 9
2(a + c) = 27, no solution
If a = 9, b = 9 and c 7, new number = 1000 + c 7
1
1 + c 7 = ( a + b + c)
3
3c 18 = 18 + c
c = 18, rejected
Sum of all possible A = 108 + 117 + 207 = 432
G7 In the figure, the side of each smaller square is 1 unit long. Find the
sum of the area of all possible rectangles (squares included) that can
be formed in the figure.
Number of rectangles with sides 1 1 = 16
Number of rectangles with sides 1 2 = 2 3 4 = 24
Number of rectangles with sides 1 4 = 2 4 = 8
Sum of areas = 16 + 242 + 163 + 84 + 94 + 126 + 68 + 49 + 412 + 16 = 400
G8 If prime numbers a, b are the roots of the quadratic equation x2 21x + t = 0, find the value of
b a
.
a b
Reference: 1996FG7.1, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2, 2012 HI6
a + b = 21; ab = t
a, b are prime numbers and 21 is odd
a = 2, b = 19
t = ab = 38
b a a b
2 2
a b 2ab = 212 2 38 = 365
2
= =
a b ab ab 38 38
G9 Find the value of x such that the length of the
path APB in the figure is the smallest.
Reference: 1983 FG8.1, 1991 HG9, 1993 HI1
Let the straight line segment DPE be as shown
in the figure.
Reflect A along DE to A. Then ADP ADP
APB = AP + PB
It is the shortest when A, P, B are collinear.
In this case, APD = BPE (vert. opp. s)
APD ~ BPE (equiangular)
DP : AD = PE : BE (ratio of sides, ~ s) B
A
x 14 x
3 cm
4 cm
3 4
x cm P
4x = 42 3x D E
x=6 14 cm
A'
G10 Find the unit digit of the sum 12 + 22 + 32 + 42 + + 1234567892.

Reference 2012 HI1
Sum of unit digits from 12 to 102 = 1 + 4 + 9 + 6 + 5 + 6 + 9 + 4 + 1 + 0 = 25
Required unit digit = unit digit of 123456795 5 (mod 10)
Individual Events
7 11
I1 a 3 I2 a 9 I3 a 5 I4 a I5 a ISpare a 17
2 16
b 18 b 3 b 3 b 2 b 2 b 9
10
c 36 c 4 c 2 c 10 c c 1
21
5 9 23
d d 15 d 16 d d d 258
36 10 28
Group Events
G6 a 7 G7 a 2 G8 a 8 G9 a 2 G10 a 1003001
*see the remark
b 7 b 333 b 4 b 2 b 10
c 12 c 1 c 7 c 39923992 c 35
3
d 757 d 9 d d 885 d 92
2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is exactly the same in length as the perimeter of a
regular hexagon. The ratio of the areas of the triangle and the hexagon is 2 : a, find the value
of a. Reference: 2014 FI4.3
x = 2y
equilateral triangles.
1 1 x y
Ratio of areas = x 2 sin 60 o : 6 y 2 sin 60 o = 2 : a
2 2
2 2
x : 6y = 2 : a
(2y)2 : 6y2 = 2 : a
a=3
I1.2 If 5x + 5x = a and 53x + 53x = b, find the value of b.
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1998 FG5.2, 2010 FI3.2
(5x + 5x)2 = 32
52x + 2 + 52x = 9
52x + 52x = 7
b = (5x + 5x)(52x 1 + 52x)
= 3(7 1) = 18
I1.3 The figure shows an open cylindrical tube (radius = 1 cm) with a
hemispherical bottom of radius 1 cm. The height of the tube is b cm and
the external surface area of the tube is c cm2. Find the value of c.
c = 2rl + 2r2 = 2(1)(17) + 2(12) = 36
c = 36
c
I1.4 Two fair dice are thrown. Let d be the probability of getting the sum of scores to be . Find
6
the value of d.
5
Sum = 6, d = P(6) = P((1,5), (2, 4), (3, 3), (4, 2), (5, 1)) = .
36
Individual Event 2
1 1
I2.1 It is given that m, n > 0 and m + n = 1. If the minimum value of 1 + 1 + is a, find the
m n
value of a.
(m + n)2 = 1
m2 + n2 + 2mn = 1
m2 + n2 = 1 2mn
(m n)2 0
m2 2mn + n2 0
1 2mn 2mn 0
1 1
mn 4
4 mn
1 1 (1 + m )(1 + n ) 1 + m + n + mn 1 +1 + mn 2
1 + 1 + = = = = + 1 24 + 1 = 9
m n mn mn mn mn
I2.2 If the roots of the equation x2 (10 + a) x + 25 = 0 are the square of the roots of the equation
x2 + bx = 5, find the positive value of b. (Reference: 2001 FI3.4)
x2 19x + 25 = 0, roots = , ; + = 19, = 25
x2 + bx = 5, roots r, s; r + s = b, rs = 5
Now r2 = , s2 =
19 = + = r2 + s2 = (r + s)2 2rs = b2 2(5)
b2 = 9
b = 3 (positive root)
Method 2 Replace x by x in x2 + bx = 5
x+b x=5
b x=5x
b2x = 25 10x + x2
x2 (10 + b2)x + 25 = 0, which is identical to x2 19x + 25 = 0
I2.3 If (xy 2)b1 + (x 2y)b1 = 0 and c = x2 + y2 1, find the value of c.
Reference: 2005FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2009 FG1.4, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
(xy 2)2 + (x 2y)2 = 0
xy = 2 and x = 2y
2y2 = 2
y = 1, x = 2
c = x2 + y2 1 = 4 + 1 1 = 4
I2.4 If f (x) is a polynomial of degree two, f (f (x)) = x4 2x2 and d = f (c), find the value of d.
Let f (x) = px2 + qx + r
f (f (x)) = p(px2 + qx + r)2 + q(px2 + qx + r) + r x4 2x2
Compare coefficient of x4: p = 1
Compare coefficient of x3: 2q = 0 q = 0
Compare the constant: r2 + qr + r = 0 r = 0 or r + q + 1 = 0 (1)
Compare coefficient of x: 2qr + q2 = 0 q = 0 or 2r + q = 0 (2)
Sub. q = 0 into (1): r = 0 or 1
But q = 0, r = 1 does not satisfy 2r + q = 0 in (2)
(p, q, r) = (1, 0, 0) or (1, 0, 1)
Sub. (p, q, r) = (1, 0, 0) into f (f (x)) = x4 2x2 x4, which is a contradiction rejected
Sub. (p, q, r) = (1, 0, 1) into f (f (x)) = x4 2x2 (x2 1)2 1
RHS = x4 2x2 + 1 1 = LHS
f (x) = x2 1; d = f (4) = 42 1 = 15
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is a real number and 2a3 + a2 275 = 0, find the value of a.
Let f (a) = 2a3 + a2 275; 275 = 5511 2a 2 + 11a + 55
f (5) = 2125 + 25 275 = 0 a 5 2a 3 + a 2 275
f (a) = (a 5)(2a2 + 11a + 55)
2a 3 10a 2
of 2a + 11a + 55 is 11 4(2)(55) < 0
2 2
11a 2
a=5
11a 2 55a
55a 275
55a 275
I3.2 Find the value of b if 32353833b1 = 27a.

32+5+8+(3b1) = 335
Q 2 + 5 + 8 = 15
3b 1 = 8
b=3
I3.3 Find the value of c if logb(bc 8) = 2 c.
log3(3c 8) = 2 c
3c 8 = 32c
9
Let y = 3c; then 32c = 323c =
y
9
y8=
y
y2 8y 9 = 0
(y 9)(y + 1) = 0
y = 9 or 1
3c = 9 or 1 (rejected)
c=2
I3.4 If [(4c)c]c = 2d, find the value of d.
[(42)2]2 = 2d
48 = 2d
216 = 2d
d = 16
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In the figure, the area of the shaded region is a. Find
the value of a.
Equation of the other straight line is x + y = 3
The intersection point is (1, 2)
y-intercept of y = x + 1 is 1
Shaded area = area of big triangle area of small
= 3 3 (3 1) 1 =
1 1 7
2 2 2
I4.2 If 8b = 4a 43, find the value of b.
8b = 43.5 43 = 43(2 1) = 64; b = 2
10000
I4.3 Given that c is the positive root of the equation x2 100b + = 0, find the value of c.
x2
x4 200x2 + 10000 = 0
(x2 100)2 = 0
x = 10
1 1 1
I4.4 If d = + +L+ , find the value of d.
1 2 2 3 (c 1) c
1 1 1
d= + +L+
1 2 2 3 9 10
1 1 1 1 1
= 1 + + L +
2 3 4 9 10
1 9
= 1 =
10 10
Individual Event 5
I5.1 Four fair dice are thrown. Let a be the probability of getting at least half of the outcome of the
dice to be even. Find the value of a.
P(at least half of the outcome of the dice to be even)
= P(even, even, odd, odd) + P(even, even, even, odd) + P(even, even, even, even)
1 1 1 11
= 6 + 4 + =
16 16 16 16
I5.2 It is given that f (x) = x 2 (81) x and g(x) = 4 log10 (14x) 2 log10 49.
3 1
8
Find the value of b = f {g[16(1 a)]}.
11
g[16(1 a)] = g[16(1 )] = g(5)
16
= 4 log 70 2 log 49
= 4 log 70 4 log 7 = 4 log 10 = 4
b = f (g(5)) = f (4) = (4 ) (81) 4 = 6 9 2 = = 2
3 2 1 1 6
8 3
1 1 1 1
I5.3 Let c = 2 + + +L+ , find the value of c.
b 1 (2b ) 1 (3b ) 1
2 2
(10b )2 1
1 1 1 1
Hint: 2 =
x 1 2 x 1 x + 1
1 1 1 1 1 1 11 1 11 1 1 1 1
c= 2 + 2 + 2 +L+ 2 = 1 + + + L +
2 1 4 1 6 1 20 1 2 3 2 3 5 2 5 7 2 19 21
1 1 10
= 1 =
2 21 21
I5.4 In the following diagram, PC is a tangent to the circle (centre
O) at the point P, and ABO is an isosceles triangle,
10
AB = OB, PCO = c (= ) and d = QPC, where c, d are
21
22
radian measures. Find the value of d. (Take = )
7
Q AB = OB, let BAO = AOB = (base s, isos. )

Join OP. OPC = (tangent radius)
2
QOA = OP (radii), OPA = (base s, isos. )

In APC, + + + c = (s sum of )
2
10 11 10 23 23
2 = = = =
2 21 7 21 21 42
23
COQ = = (vert. opp. s)
42
23
Join AQ. QAO = = ( at centre twice at ce)
2 84
d = BAO + QAO ( in alt. segment)
23 23 23
=+ = + =
2 42 84 28
Spare Event (Individual)

IS.1 From the following figure, determine the number of
routes a from A to D.
a = 232 + 12 + 1 + 21 = 17
IS.2 If sin(2b + 2a) = cos(6b 16), where 0 < b < 90, find the value of b.
cos(90 2b 34) = cos(6b 16)
56 2b = 6b 16
72 = 8b
b=9
IS.3 The lines (bx 6y + 3) + k(x y + 1) = 0, where k is any real constant, pass through a fixed
point P(c, m), find the value of c.
The fixed point is the intersection of 9x 6y + 3 = 0 (1) and x y + 1 = 0 (2)
(1)3 2(2): x 1 = 0
x=1c=1
IS.4 It is known that d2 c = 257259. Find the positive value of d.
d2 1 = 257259
= (258 1)(258 + 1)
= 2582 1
d = 258
Group Event 6
G6.1 The number of eggs in a basket was a. Eggs were given out in three rounds. In the first round
half of egg plus half an egg were given out. In the second round, half of the remaining eggs
plus half an egg were given out. In the third round, again, half of the remaining eggs plus half
an egg were given out. The basket then became empty. Find a.
a 1 1 a 1 1 1 a 1 1 a 1 1 1
+ + + + + + = a
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
3 1 a 1 1 a 1 1 a 1 1 a
+ + + =
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
a 1 a 1 1 a 1 1
3 + + + = a
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
a 1
6 + a 1 + a 1 + 1 = 2a
2 2
a 1
3 = 0
2 2
a=7
G6.2 If p q = 2; p r = 1 and b = (r q)[(p q)2 + (p q)(p r) + (p r)2]. Find the value of b.
b = [p q (p r)][(p q)2 + (p q)(p r) + (p r)2]
= (2 1)[22 + 21 + 12]
= 23 13 = 7
G6.3 If n is a positive integer, m2n = 2 and c = 2m6n 4, find the value of c.
c = 2m6n 4
= 2(m2n)3 4
= 223 4 = 12
G6.4 If r, s, t, u are positive integers and r5 = s4, t3 = u2, t r = 19 and d = u s, find the value of d.
Reference: 1998 HG4
1 1 2 10 4 12
Let w = u 15 , v = s 15 , then t = u 3 = u 15 = w10 , r = s 5 = s 15 = v12
t r = 19 w10 v12 = 19
(w5 + v6)(w5 v6) = 191
Q 19 is a prime number, w5 + v6 = 19, w5 v6 = 1
Solving these equations give w5 = 10, v6 = 9 w5 = 10, v3 = 3
u = w15 = 1000, s = v15 = 35 = 729
d = u s = 1000 243 = 757
Group Event 7
G7.1 If the two distinct roots of the equation ax2 mx + 1996 = 0 are primes, find the value of a.
Reference: 1996 HG8, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2, 2012 HI6
m 1996
Let the roots be , . + = , =
a a
1996 = 4499 and 499 is a prime
a = 1, 2, 4, 499, 998 or 1996
When a = 1, = 1996, which cannot be expressed as a product of two primes rejected
When a = 2, = 998; = 2, = 499 (accepted)
When a = 499, = 4, = 2, = 2 (not distinct roots, rejected)
Remark: the original question is:
If the two roots of the equation ax2 mx + 1996 = 0 are primes, find the value of a.
a = 2 or 499 (Not unique solution)
G7.2 A six-digit figure 111aaa is the product of two consecutive positive integers b and b + 1, find
the value of b.
Reference: 2001 FG2.3 Given that 111111222222 = c(c + 1)
111222 = 111000 + 222 = 1111000 + 2111 = 1111002 = 1113334 = 333334; b = 333
G7.3 If p, q, r are non-zero real numbers;

1 1 1 1 1 1
p2 + q2 + r2 = 1, p + + q + + r + + 3 = 0 and c = p + q + r, find the largest
q r r p p q
value of c.
p 2 (r + q ) + q 2 ( p + r ) + r 2 (q + p ) + 3 pqr
The second equation becomes: =0
pqr
p2(c p) + q2(c q) + r2(c r) + 3pqr = 0
c(p2 + q2 + r2) (p3 + q3 + r3 3pqr) = 0
c (p + q + r)(p2 + q2 + r2 pq qr pr) = 0
c c[1 (pq + qr + pr)] = 0
c(pq + qr + pr) = 0
c
[(p + q + r)2 (p2 + q2 + r2)] = 0
2
c(c2 1) = 0
c = 0, 1 or 1
Maximum c = 1
G7.4 If the unit digit of 714 is d, find the value of d.

71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401; the unit digits repeat in the pattern 7, 9, 3, 1,
714 = (74)3 72 d = 9
Group Event 8 In this question, all unnamed circles are unit circles.
G8.1 If the area of the rectangle ABCD is a + 4 3 , find the value of a.
The lines joining the centres form an equilateral triangle, side = 2.
AB = 2 + 2 sin 60 = 2 + 3
BC = 4
Area of ABCD = (2 + 3 )4 = 8 + 4 3
a=8
G8.2 If the area of the equilateral triangle PQR is 6 + b 3 , find the
value of b.
Reference: 1997 HG9
PQ = 2 + 2 tan 60 = 2 + 2 3
Area of PQR =
1
2
( 2
) (
2 + 2 3 sin 60 o = 2 1 + 2 3 + 3
2
)
3
6+b 3=6+4 3
b=4
G8.3 If the area of the circle EFG is

(c + 4 3 ) , find the value of c.
3
P
Let the centre be O, the equilateral triangle formed by the lines
joining the centres be PQR, the radius be r.
O
2 2+ 3
r = OE = OP + PE = 1 sec 30 + 1 = +1 = Q R
3 3
Area of circle =
(2 + 3 ) = (7 + 4 3 )
2
3 3
c=7
G8.4 If all the straight lines in the diagram below are common tangents
to the two circles, and the area of the shaded part is 6 + d, find the
value of d.
There are three identical shaded regions.
One shaded part = area of rectangle area of semi-circle

= 2 1 (1) = 2
1 2
2 2
3
Total shaded area = 3 2 = 6
2 2
3
d =
2
Group Event 9
G9.1 If (1995)a + (1996)a + (1997)a is divisible by 10, find the least possible integral value of a.
The unit digit of (1995)a + (1996)a + (1997)a is 0.
For any positive integral value of a, the unit digit of 1995a is 5, the unit digit of 1996a is 6.
The unit digit of 1997a repeats in the pattern 7, 9, 3, 1,

5 + 6 + 9 = 20
So the least possible integral value of a is 2.
G9.2 If the expression (x2 + y2)2 b(x4 + y4) holds for all real values of x and y, find the least
possible integral value of b.
b(x4 + y4) (x2 + y2)2 = b(x4 + y4) (x4 + y4 + 2x2y2) = (b 1)x4 2x2y2 + (b 1)y4
If b = 1, the expression = 2x2y2 which cannot be positive for all values of x and y.
If b 1, discriminant = (2)2 4(b 1)2 = 4(1 b2 + 2b 1) = 4b(b 2)

In order that the expression is always non-negative, (b 1) > 0 and discriminant 0
b > 1 and 4b(b 2) 0
b > 1 and (b 0 or b 2)
b 2, the least possible integral value of b is 2.
G9.3 If c = 199619971997 199519961996, find the value of c.

c = 199619971001 199519961001 = 10011996(1997 1995)
= 39921001 = 39923992
G9.4 Find the sum d where
1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 58 58 59
d = + + +L+ + + + +L+ + + +L+ +L+ + +
2 3 4 60 3 4 5 60 4 5 60 59 60 60
Reference: 1995 HG3
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 1 2 59
d = + + + + + + + + + +L+ + +L+
2 3 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 60 60 60
1 32 43 54 6059
= + 2 + 2 + 2 +L+ 2
2 3 4 5 60
1 2 3 4 59
= + + + +L+
2 2 2 2 2
= (1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + L + 59 )
1
2
1 1
= 60 59 = 885
2 2
Group Event 10
2
G10.1 It is given that 3456 = 19 1
2
4567 = 29 1
5678 = 412 1
6789 = 552 1
If a2 = 1000100110021003 + 1, find the value of a.
19 = 45 1; 29 = 56 1; 41 = 67 1; 55 = 56 1
a2 = (10011002 1)2 1 + 1 = (10011002 1)2
a = 1003002 1 = 1003001
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 10
G10.2 Let f(x) = x + x + x + x + x + x + x + x + x + 1. When f(x ) is divided by f(x), the
remainder is b. Find the value of b.
Consider the roots of f (x) = x9 + x8 + x7 + x6 + x5 + x4 + x3 + x2 + x + 1 = 0
x10 1
f (x) can be rewritten as = 0, where x 1
x 1
There are 9 roots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9: where i10 = 1and i 1 for 1 i 9
Let f (x10) = f (x) Q(x) + a8 x8 + a7x7 + a6x6 + a5x5 + a4x4 + a3x3 + a2x2 + a1x + a0.
f(i10) = f(i) Q(i) + a8 i8 + a7i7 + a6i6 + a5i5 + a4i4 + a3i3 + a2i2 + a1i+ a0, 1 i 9
f(1) = 0Q(i) + a8 i8 + a7i7 + a6i6 + a5i5 + a4i4 + a3i3 + a2i2 + a1i+ a0 for 1 i 9
a8 i8 + a7i7 + a6i6 + a5i5 + a4i4 + a3i3 + a2i2 + a1i+ a0 = 10 for 1 i 9
i (1 i 9) are the roots of a8 x8 + a7x7 + a6x6 + a5x5 + a4x4 + a3x3 + a2x2 + a1x + a0 10 = 0
Since a polynomial of degree 8 has at most 8 roots and it is satisfied by i for 1 i 9.
a8 x8 + a7x7 + a6x6 + a5x5 + a4x4 + a3x3 + a2x2 + a1x + a0 10 must be a zero polynomial.
a8 = 0, a7 = 0, a6 = 0, a5 = 0, a4 = 0, a3 = 0, a2 = 0, a1 = 0, a0 = 10
The remainder when f (x10) is divided by f (x) is a0 = 10.
Method 2 (Provided by Pui Ching Middle School )
f(x10) = x90 + x80 + x70 + x60 + x50 + x40 + x30 + x20 + x10 + 1
= x90 1 + x80 1 + x70 1+ x60 1 + x50 1 + x40 1 + x30 1 + x20 1 + x10 1 + 10
= (x10 1)g1(x) + (x10 1)g2(x) + (x10 1)g3(x) + + (x10 1)g9(x) + 10
where g1(x) = x80 + x70 + + x10 + 1, g2(x) = x70 + x60 + + x10 + 1, , g9(x) = 1
f(x10) = (x10 1)[g1(x) + g2(x) + + g9(x)] + 10
= f (x)(x 1)[g1(x) + g2(x) + + g9(x)] + 10
The remainder is 10.
Clearly f (1) = 10.
By remainder theorem, f (x) = (x 1)Q(x) + 10, where Q(x) is a polynomial
f (x10) = (x10 1)Q(x10) + 10
= (x 1)(x9 + x8 + x7 + x6 + x5 + x4 + x3 + x2 + x + 1)Q(x10) + 10
= f (x)(x 1)Q(x10) + 10
p 7 p 11
G10.3 The fraction is in its simplest form. If < < where q is the smallest possible
q 10 q 15
positive integer and c = pq. Find the value of c.
Reference 2005 HI1, 2010 HG7
7 p 11 7 p 11
< < 1 > 1 > 1
10 q 15 10 q 15
3 q p 4 10 q 15
> > < <
10 q 15 3 q p 4
1 q 3 1 3 p 2q 3
< 3< < <
3 q p 4 3 q p 4
3 p 2q 1
= 3p 2q = 1, q p = 2
q p 2
7 5 11
Solving the equations gives p = 5, q = 7, < < , c = 35
10 7 15
G10.4 A positive integer d when divided by 7 will have 1 as its remainder; when divided by 5 will
have 2 as its remainder and when divided by 3 will have 2 as its remainder. Find the least
possible value of d.
d = 7m + 1 = 5n + 2 = 3r + 2
7m 5n = 1 (1)
5n = 3r (2)
From (2), n = 3k, r = 5k
Sub. n = 3k into (1), 7m 5(3k) = 1
7m 15k = 1
14 + 15 = 1 A possible solution is m = 2, k = 1
m = 2 + 15t, k = 1 + 7t
When t = 1, m = 13, k = 6, n = 18, r = 30.
The least possible value of d = 3(30) + 2 = 92
2 11 4
1 1111111 2 3 0, 2 4 5
94-95 3 450 3
Individual 1
6 5 7 1 8 7 9 10 12
6
45
1 1 2 132 3 4 45 5 24
94-95 2
Group 2
6 5130 7 2 3 3 8 8 9 124 10
3
Individual Events
I1 Find the square root of 1234567654321.
Observe the pattern 112 = 121; 1112 = 12321, 11112 = 1234321,
1234567654321 = 11111112
1234567654321 = 1111111 (7 digits)
1 x
I2 Given that f , find the value of f (2).
x 1 x
2
1 1
2
f (2) = f 1 = 2 2 =
2 1 2 3
1
I3 Solve 32x + 9 = 10(3x).

Let y = 3x, then y2 = 32x
y2 + 9 = 10y
y2 10y + 9 = 0
(y 1)(y 9) = 0
y = 1 or y = 9
3x = 1 or 3x = 9
x = 0 or 2
I4 A three-digit number is selected at random. Find the probability that the number selected is a
perfect square.
The three-digit numbers consists of {100, 101, , 999}, altogether 900 numbers.
Favourable outcomes = {100, 121, , 961} = {102, 112, , 312}, 22 outcomes
22 11
P(perfect squares) = =
900 450
1
I5 Given that sin x + cos x = and 0 x , find tan x.
5
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1993 G10, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4, 2014 HG3
1
(sin + cos )2 =
25
1
sin2 + 2 sin cos + cos2 =
25
1
1 + 2 sin cos =
25
12
sin cos =
25
25 sin cos = 12(sin2 + cos2 )
12sin2 + 25 sin cos + 12cos2 = 0
(3 sin + 4 cos )(4 sin + 3 cos ) = 0
4 3
tan = or
3 4
4 4 3
Check when tan = , then sin = , cos =
3 5 5
4 3 1
LHS = sin + cos = + = = RHS
5 5 5
3 3 4
When tan = , then sin = , cos =
4 5 5
3 4 1
LHS = sin + cos = = RHS
5 5 5
4
B = tan =
3
I6 How many pairs of positive integers x, y are there satisfying xy 3x 2y = 10?
xy 3x 2y + 6 = 10 + 6
(x 3)(y 2) = 16
x3 y2 16 x y
1 16 4 18
2 8 5 10
4 4 7 6
8 2 11 4
16 1 19 3
There are 5 pairs of positive integers.
I7 x, y are positive integers and 3x + 5y = 123. Find the least value of |x y|.
x = 41, y = 0 is a particular solution of the equation.
The general solution is x = 41 5t, y = 3t, where t is any integer.
|x y| = |41 5t 3t| = |41 8t|
The least value is |41 85| = 1.

Note that 71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401.
Also, 74n+1 7 (mod 10), 74n+2 9 (mod 10), 74n+3 3 (mod 10), 74n 1 (mod 10)
1997913 7913 (mod 10) 7912 +1 74(228)+1 7 (mod 10)
The remainder is 7.
I9 Area of ADE
In figure 1, if BC = 3DE, find the value of r where r = .
Area of BDC
ADE ~ ABC
2
Area of ADE 1 1
=
Area of ABC 3 9
Area of ADE 1 1
= (1)
Area of BCED 9 1 8
AE : AC = DE : BC = 1 : 3 (ratio of sides, ~)
AE : EC = 1 : 2
ADE and CDE have the same height with base ratio 1 : 2
Area of ADE AE 1
= (2)
Area of CDE CE 2
Area of ADE 1 1
r= = by (1) and (2)
Area of BDC 8 2 6
I10 A, B, C, D are points on the sides of the right-angled triangle PQR as
shown in figure 2. If ABCD is a square, QA = 8 and BR = 18, find AB.
Let BRC = , then DQA = 90 (s sum of )
DAQ = 90 ( of a square), QDA = (s sum of )
BC = BR tan = 18 tan = AD (opp. sides of square)
QA = 8 = AD tan = 18 tan2
2
tan =
3
2
AB = BC = 18 tan = 18 = 12
3
Method 2
It is easy to show that PDC ~ AQD ~ BCR (equiangular)
Let AB = AD = BC = CD = x
PD : PC : x = 8 : x : QD = x : 18 : CR (cor. sides, ~s)
x2 = 818
AB = x = 12
Group Events
G1 Find the number of positive integral solutions of the equation x3 + (x + 1)3 + (x + 2)3 = (x + 3)3
Expand: x3 + x3 + 3x2 + 3x + 1 + x3 + 6x2 + 12x + 8 = x3 + 9x2 + 27x + 27
2x3 12x 18 = 0
x3 6x 9 = 0; let f (x) = x3 6x 9
f (3) = 27 18 9 = 0 x 3 is a factor.
By division, (x 3)(x2 + 3x + 3) = 0
3 3
x = 3 or (rejected)
2
There is one positive integral solution x = 3.
G2 In figure 1, ABCD is a quadrilateral whose diagonals intersect at O.
If AOB = 30, AC = 24 and BD = 22,
find the area of the quadrilateral ABCD.
1
The area = 24 22 sin 30
2
= 132
1 2 3 n 1 n 1
G3 Given that = ,
n n n n 2
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 9
find the value of + + ++ . Reference: 1996 FG9.4
2 3 3 4 4 4 10 10
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 9

2 3 3 4 4 4 10 10
1 2 3 4 9
=
2 2 2 2 2
1 2 9 45
=
2 2
G4 Suppose x and y are positive integers such that x2 = y2 + 2000, find the least value of x.
x2 y2 = 2000 = 12000
= 21000
= 4500
= 5400
= 8250
= 10200
= 16125
= 20100
= 2580
= 4050
(x + y)(x y) = 2000
x and y are positive integers
x + y and x y are also positive integers
x>y
x is the least when y is the largest
The difference between x and y is the largest
x + y = 50, x y = 40
Solving, x = 45
G5 Given that 37100 is a 157-digit number, and 3715 is an n-digit number. Find n.
Let y = 37100, then log y = log 37100 = 156 + a, where 0 a < 1
100 log 37 = 156 + a
15 log 37 =
15
156 a
100
log 3715 = 23.4 + 0.15a
23 < log 3715 < 24
3715 is a 24 digit number.
n = 24.
G6 Given that 12 + 22 + 32 + + n2 =
n
n 12n 1 ,
6
find the value of 1921 + 1822 + 1723 + + 139.
1921 + 1822 + 1723 + + 139
= (20 1)(20 + 1) + (20 2)(20 + 2) + (20 3)(20 + 3) + + (20 19)(20 + 19)
= (202 12) + (202 22) + (202 32) + + (202 192)
= 202 + + 202 (19 times) (12 + 22 + 32 + + 192)
= 19400
19
2039
6
= 7600 2470
= 5130
G7 In figure 2, ABCD is a square where AB = 1 and CPQ is an equilateral
triangle. Find the area of CPQ.
Let AQ = AP = x.
Then BQ = DP = (1 x)
By Pythagoras Theorem,
CP = CQ 1 + (1 x)2 = x2 + x2
2 2x + x2 = 2x2
x2 + 2x 2 = 0 x2 = 2 2x
x = 1 3
Area of CPQ = Area of square area of APQ 2 area of CDP
x2 1 1 x x2 2 2x
=1 2 =x =x = 2x 1
2 2 2 2

= 2 1 3 1= 2 3 3
1 1
Method 2 Area of CPQ = PQ 2 sin 60 x 2 x 2
2 2

2
3

=
3x 2

3 1 3 2 3
2 3 3
2 2
G8 The number of ways to pay a sum of $17 by using $1 coins, $2 coins and $5 coins is n. Find n.
(Assume that all types of coins must be used each time.)
Suppose we used x + 1 $1 coins, y + 1 $2 coins, z + 1 $5 coins, where x, y, z are non-negative
integers. Then (x + 1) + 2(y + 1) + 5(z + 1) = 17
x + 2y + 5z = 9
(x, y, z) = (9, 0, 0), (7, 1, 0), (5, 2, 0), (3, 3, 0), (1, 4, 0), (4, 0, 1), (2, 1, 1), (0, 2, 5).
Altogether 8 ways.
G9 In figure 3, find the total number of triangles in the 33 square.
Reference: 1998 HG9
There are 36 smallest triangles with length = 1
There are 36 triangles with length = 2
There are 16 triangles with length = 2 2

Altogether 124 triangles.
G10 In figure 4, the radius of the quadrant and the diameter of the large
semi-circle is 2. Find the radius of the small semi-circle.
Let the radius of the smaller semi-circle be r cm.
Let A, D, E be the centres of the quadrant, the larger and the smaller
semi-circles respectively.
BAC = 90
DE intersects the two semicircles at F. B
AE = EC = 1 cm r cm
BD = DF = r cm D
AC = AB = 2 cm F
AD = (2 r) cm, DE = (1 + r) cm (2 - r) cm
AD2 + AE2 = DE2 (Pythagoras theorem) A
12 + (2 r)2 = (1 + r)2 C 1 cm E 1 cm
1 + 4 4r + r2 = 1 + 2r + r2
2
r=
3
Individual Events
1 1
I1 a I2 x 0 I3 a I4 r 3 I5 a 2
2 2
b 3 2 y 3 b 8 s 4 b 2
c 3 z 2 c 2 t 5 c 12
1
d 1 w d 120 u 41 d 16 3
6
Group Events
1
G6 a 5 G7 a G8 V 1 G9 A 9 G10 a 4
2
b 2 b 2 2 V 0 B 6 b 13
1
c c 700 r 3 C 8 c 16
4
1 1
d d 333 V 35 D 2 d
1995 10
Individual Event 1
1
I1.1 Find a, if a = log 1 .
4
2
1
2
1 1 1
a = log 1 = log 1 =
4
4
2 4 2
I1.2 In the figure, AB = AD = DC = 4, BD = 2a. B
Find b, the length of BC.
Let ADB = , CDB = 180 (adj. s on st. line) 4 2a
a 1 A C
In ABD, cos = = 4 D 4
4 8
Apply cosine formula on BCD.
b2 = (2a)2 + 42 2(2a)4cos(180 )
1
b2 = 1 + 16 24(cos ) = 17 + 8 = 18
8
b =3 2
I1.3 It is given that f (x) = px3 + qx + 5 and f (7) = 2 b + 1. Find c, if c = f (7).
p(7)3 + q(7) + 5 = 2 3 2 + 1 = 7
[p(7)3 + q(7)] = 2
c = f (7)
= p(7)3 + q(7) + 5
= 2 + 5 = 3
I1.4 Find the least positive integer d, such that dc + 1000 is divisible by 10 + c.
d3 + 1000 is divisible by 13
1377 = 1001 = 1000 + 13
d=1
Individual Event 2
x x
I2.1 If = , find x.
(x 1)(x 4) (x 2)(x 3)
Reference: 1998 HI3
x = 0 or (x 1)(x 4) = (x 2)(x 3)
x = 0 or x2 5x + 4 = x2 5x + 6
x = 0 or 4 = 6
x=0
I2.2 If f (t) = 352t and y = f (x), find y.
y = f (0) = 3520 = 3
I2.3 A can finish a job in y days, B can finish a job in (y + 3) days. If they worked together, they
can finish the job in z days, find z.
1 1 1 1
= + =
z 3 6 2
z=2
I2.4 The probability of throwing z dice to score 7 is w, find w.
6 1
P( sum of 2 dice = 7) = P((1,6), (2,5), (3,4), (4,3), (5,2), (6, 1)) = =
36 6
1
w=
6
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a = sin 30 + sin 300 + sin 3000, find a.
1 3 1 3 3 1
a= + sin(3608 + 120) = + =
2 2 2 2 2 2
x+ y z+x y+z
I3.2 It is given that = = and x + y + z = 36a. Find the value of b, if b = x + y .
2 3 4
x + y = 2k (1)
z + x = 3k (2)
y + z = 4k (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(x + y + z) = 9k
1
2(36)( ) = 9k
2
k=4
b=x+y
= 2k
= 2(4) = 8
I3.3 It is given that the equation x + 6 + 8k = k(x + b) has positive integral solution.
Find c, the least value of k.
x + 6 + 8k = k(x + 8)
(k 1)x = 6
If k = 1, the equation has no solution
6
If k 1, x =
k 1
The positive integral solution, 6 must be divisible by k 1.
The least positive factor of 6 is 1, c = 2
I3.4 A car has already travelled 40% of its journey at an average speed of 40c km/h. In order to
make the average speed of the whole journey become 100 km/h, the speed of the car is
adjusted to d km/h to complete the rest of the journey. Find d.
Let the total distance be s.
s
= 100
0 .4 s 0 .6 s
+
40(2 ) d
1 3 1
+ =
200 5d 100
120 1
=
200d 200
d = 120
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In triangle ABC, B = 90, BC = 7 and AB = 24. If r is C
the radius of the inscribed circle, find r.
Let O be the centre of the inscribed circle, which touches
B A
BC, CA, AB at P, Q, R respectively.
OP BC, OQ AC, OR AB (tangent radius) C7 -r
Q
7-r
ORBP is a rectangle (it has 3 right angles) r
r 24 - r
P O
BR = r, BP = r (opp. sides of rectangle) r r
B r R 24 - r A
CP = 7 r, AR = 24 r
AC2 = AB2 + BC2 (Pythagoras Theorem)
= 242 + 72 = 625
AC = 25
CQ = 7 r, AQ = 24 r (tangent from ext. point)
CQ + AQ = AC
7 r + 24 r = 25
r=3
I4.2 If x2 + x 1 = 0 and s = x3 + 2x2 + r, find s.
By division, s = x3 + 2x2 + 3 = (x + 1)(x2 + x 1) + 4 = 4
I4.3 It is given that F1 = F2 = 1 and Fn = Fn1 + Fn2, where n 3. If Ft = s + 1, find t.
Ft = 4 + 1 = 5
F3 = 1 + 1 = 2, F4 = 2 + 1 = 3, F5 = 3 + 2 = 5
t=5
I4.4 If u = t (t + 1)(t + 2)(t + 3) + 1 , find u.
Reference: 1993 HG6, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3
u = 5 6 7 8 + 1 = 40 42 + 1
= (41 1) (41 + 1) + 1 = 412 1 + 1
u = 41
Individual Event 5
1
3
I5.1 It is given that log7(log3(log2 x)) = 0. Find a, if a = x .
log3(log2 x) = 1
log2 x = 3
x = 23 = 8
1
a = x3 = 2
a P
I5.2 In the figure, PQ is a diagonal of the cube and PQ = .
2
Find b, if b is the total surface area of the cube.
Let the length of the cube be x. PQ = 1
x2 + x2 + x2 = 1 (Pythagoras Theorem)
3x2 = 1 Q
The total surface area = b = 6x2 = 2
I5.3 In the figure, L1 and L2 are tangents to the three L1
circles. If the radius of the largest circle is 18 and
the radius of the smallest circle is 4b, find c, W
where c is the radius of the circle W.
Let the centres of the 3 circles be A, B, C as
shown in the figure.
L1 touches the circles at D, E, F as shown. L2
AD L1, WE L1, BF L1 (tangent radius)
Let AB intersects the circle W at P and Q. F
AD = AP = 4b = 8, EW = WQ = PW = c E
QB = BF = 18 (radii of the circle) D
Draw AG // DE, WH // EF as shown G
8 c-8
H
18 - c
EW // FB (int. supp.) A 8 P
c
W
c
Q 18
B
AWG = WBH (corr. s EW // FB)
AG GW, WH HB (by construction)
AGW ~ WHB (equiangular)
GW = c 8, BH = c + 18 (opp. sides of rectangle)
c 8 18 c
= (ratio of sides, ~ )
c + 8 c + 18
(c 8)(c + 18) = (c + 8)(18 c)
c2 + 10c 144 = c2 + 10c + 144
2c2 = 2(144)
c = 12
I5.4 Refer to the figure, ABCD is a rectangle. AE BD and A D
c
BE = EO = . Find d, the area of the rectangle ABCD.
6
BO = 4 = OD = AO = OC (diagonal of rectangle) O
AE2 = OA2 OE2 = 42 22 = 12 (Pythagoras Theorem)
E
AE = 2 3 B C
ABD CDB (R.H.S.)
d = 2area of ABD
2 (4 + 4 ) 2 3
=
2
= 16 3
Group Event 6
G6.1 2a9b is a four digit number and its thousands digit is 2, its hundreds digit is a, its tens digit is
9 and its units digit is b, find a, b.
2a9b = 2000 + 100a + 90 + b
If a = 0, 9b = 2090 + b
93 = 729, 94 = 6561
No solution for a
a > 0 and 0 b 3, 2000 + 100a + 90 + b is divisible by 2
b = 0 or 2
If b = 0, 2a = 2090 + 100a
210 = 1024, 211 = 2048, 212 = 4096 and 0 a 9
No solution for a
b = 2, 2000 + 100a + 92 is divisible by 9
2 + a + 9 + 2 = 9m, where m is a positive integer
a = 5, b = 2
Check: 2592 = 3281 = 2592 = 2000 + 100(5) + 90 + 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
G6.2 Find c, if c = 1 + + + + 1 + + + + .
2 3 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3
1 1 1 1 1 1
Let x = 1 + + , y = 1 + + + , then c = x(y 1) y(x 1) = x + y =
2 3 2 3 4 4
G6.3 Find d, if
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
d = 1 + + + L + + + L + 1 + + + L + + + L +
2 3 1994 2 3 1995 2 3 1995 2 3 1994
1 1 1 1 1 1
x = 1+ + +L+ , y =1 + + + L +
2 3 1994 2 3 1995
d = x(y 1) y(x 1)
1
= x + y =
1995
Group Event 7
G7.1 Let p, q, r be the three sides of triangle PQR. If p4 + q4 + r4 = 2r2(p2 + q2),
find a, where a = cos2 R and R denotes the angle opposite r.
p2 + q2 r 2
cos R =
2 pq
a = cos2 R
=
(p 2
+ q2 r 2 )
2
4 p 2q2
p 4 + q 4 + r 4 + 2 p 2 q 2 2 p 2 r 2 2q 2 r 2
=
4 p2q 2
=
( )
2r 2 p 2 + q 2 + 2 p 2 q 2 2 p 2 r 2 2q 2 r 2
4 p2q 2
2 p 2q2 1
= 2 2=
4p q 2
G7.2 Refer to the diagram, P is any point inside the square OABC and b is the A B (1, 1)
minimum value of PO + PA + PB + PC, find b.

PO + PA + PB + PC OB + AC (triangle inequality)
P
C
= 2 OB O
= 2 12 + 12
b =2 2
G7.3 Identical matches of length l are used to
arrange the following pattern, if c denotes the
}
total length of matches used, find c.
1st row = 4 25
1st row + 2nd row = 4 + 6 = 10
. rows
1st + 2nd + 3rd = 4 + 6 + 8 = 18
.................................................. .
c = 1st + + 25th row .
= 4 + 6 + 8 + + [4 + (25 1)2] . . .
n[2a + (n 1)d ]
=
2
25[2(4 ) + (24 )(2 )]
=
2
= 700
G7.4 Find d, where d = 111111 222 .
111111 222 = 111(1001 2)
= 111999
= 32 1112
= 3332
d = 333
Group Event 8
Rectangles of length l and breadth b where l, b are positive integers,
are drawn on square grid paper. For each of these rectangles, a
diagonal is drawn and the number of vertices V intersected (excluding
the two end points) is counted (see figure).
G8.1 Find V, when l = 6, b = 4.
Intersection point = (3, 2)
V=1 l=b=3
G.8.2 Find V, when l = 5, b = 3 V=2
As 3 and 5 are relatively prime, there is no intersection V = 0
G8.3 When l = 12 and 1 < b < 12, find r, the number of different values of b that makes V = 0?
b = 5, 7, 11 are relatively prime to 12.
The number of different values of b = 3
G8.4 Find V, when l = 108, b = 72.
H.C.F. (108, 72) = 36, 108 = 363, 72 = 362
Intersection points = (3, 2), (6, 4), (9, 6), , (105, 70)
V = 35
Group Event 9
A, B, C, D are different integers ranging from 0 to 9 and A A B C
Find A, B, C and D. B A C B
If A = 0, then B 1, (AABC) (BACB) < 0 rejected D A C D
A > 0, consider the hundreds digit:
If there is no borrow digit in the hundreds digit, then A A = A
A = 0 rejected
There is a borrow digit in the hundreds digit. Also, there is a borrow digit in the thousands digit
10 + A 1 A = A
A=9
Consider the thousands digit: A 1 B = D
B + D = 8 (1)
Consider the units digit:
If C < B, then 10 + C B = D
10 + C = B + D
10 + C = 8 by (1)
C = 2 (rejected)
C > B and there is no borrow digit in the tens digit
Consider the tens digit: 10 + B C = C
10 + B = 2C (2)
Consider the units digit, Q C > B C B = D
C=B+D
C = 8 by (1)
Sub. C = 8 into (2)
10 + B = 16
B=6
Sub. B = 6 into (1), 6 + D = 8
D=2
A = 9, B = 6, C = 8, D = 2
Group Event 10 y
Lattice points are points on a rectangular
coordinate plane having both x- and
y-coordinates being integers. A moving point
P is initially located at (0, 0). It moves 1 unit
along the coordinate lines (in either
directions) in a single step.
G10.1 If P moves 1 step then P can reach a
different lattice points, find a. x
(1, 0), (1, 0), (0, 1), (0, 1)
a=4
G10.2 If P moves not more than 2 steps then
P can reach b different lattice points,
find b.
(1, 0), (1, 0), (0, 1), (0, 1),
(1, 1), (1, (1, 1), (1, 1), (1, 1)
(2, 0), (2, 0), (0, 2), (0, 2), (0, 0)
b = 13
G10.3 If P moves 3 steps then P can reach c
different lattice points, find c.
(1, 0), (1, 0), (0, 1), (0, 1), (3, 0), (2, 1), (1, 2), (0, 3), (1, 2), (2, 1), (3, 0), (2, 1),
(1, 2), (0, 3), (1, 2), (2, 1); c = 4 + 12 = 16
G10.4 If d is the probability that P lies on the straight line x + y = 9 when P advances 9 steps, find d.
Total number of outcomes = 4 + 12 + 20 + 28 + 36 = 100
Favourable outcomes = {(0,9), (1,8), (2,7), , (9,0)}, number = 10
1
Probability =
10
4
93-94 1 9 2 3 256 4 6 5 30:15:10:6
Individual 9
6 8 7 3 8 6.8 9 6 10 28
1 16
1 2 972 cm2 3 100 4 5 9
93-94 5 3
Group 1 56
6 27 7 17 8 9 9 10
2 113
Individual Events
1 1 1
I1 Suppose log3 p = 1 + + + + L to an infinite number of terms. Find p.
2 4 8
Reference: 2012 HI5
1 a 1
log 3 p = = 2 (sum to infinity of a G.P. = , a = 1, r = )
1 1 r 2
1
2
p = 32 = 9
I2 Two numbers are drawn from the set of numbers 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. Find the
probability that the sum of these two numbers is even.
P(sum = even) = P(odd + odd or even + even)
= P(odd + odd) + P(even + even)
4 3 5 4
= +
9 8 9 8
32 4
= =
72 9
2 * (2 * (2 * 2))
I3 Given a * b = a b , find the value of .
((2 * 2) * 2) * 2
2*2 = 22 = 4
2*(2*2) = 24 = 16; (2*2)*2 = 42 = 16
2*(2*(2*2)) = 216; ((2*2)*2)*2 = 162 = 28
2 * (2 * (2 * 2)) 216
= 8 = 28 = 256
((2 * 2) * 2) * 2 2
I4 If loga x = 2 and 2a + x = 8, find a + x.

x = a2 .
2a + a2 = 8
a2 + 2a 8 = 0
(a + 4)(a 2) = 0
a = 4 (rejected, because 4 cannot be the base) or a = 2
x = a2 = 4
a+x=2+4=6
I5 If a : b = 2 : 1, b : c = 3 : 2 and c : d = 5 : 3, find a : b : c : d.
a : b = 30 : 15, b : c = 15 : 10, c : d = 10 : 6
a : b : c : d = 30 : 15 : 10 : 6
I6 A, B, C, D are different integers ranging from 0 to 9 and

A B C D
9
D C B A
Find C.
Reference: 1987 FG9
Consider the thousands digit.
9A = D
A = 1, D = 9
Q there is no carry digit in the hundreds digit
B=0
Consider the tens digit.
9C + 8 0 (mod 10)
9C 2 (mod 10)
C=8
I7 Find the last digit of the number 31993.

31 = 3, 32 = 9, 33 = 27, 34 = 81
The pattern of unit digit repeat for every multiples of 4.
31993 = (34)4983 13 (mod 10)
The unit digit is 3.
I8 In figure 1, CD bisects BCA, BE // CA, BC = 10, CA = 15

and CD = 10.2. Find the length of DE.
Let BCD = = ACD (angle bisector)
BED = (alt. s, AC // EB)
BE = BC = 10 (sides opp. equal angles)
Let CAD = = EBD (alt. s, AC // EB)
(Figure 1)
ACD ~ BED (equiangular)
DE 10
= (ratio of sides, ~)
10.2 15
DE = 6.8
I9 In figure 2, XY = 3, YZ = 4 and ZX = 5. Semi-circles are

Y
constructed with M, N, O as centres as shown where M, N,
O are mid-points of XY, YZ and ZX respectively. Find the
sum of the shaded areas. (Reference: 2009 FG4.2) M N
Sum of the shaded areas
= Ssemi-circle XMY + Ssemi-circle YNZ + SXYZ Ssemi-circle XYZ
X Z
3 4 1 5
2 2 2 O
= + + 3 4 (Figure 2)
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
=6
I10 In figure 3, O is the centre of the circle, OE = DE and B
AOB = 84. Find a if ADE = a.
DOE = a (base s isos. ODE) E
OEB = 2a (ext. of ODE) A

84
D
OBE = 2a (base s isos. OBE) O
BOE = 180 4a (s sum of OBE)
84 + 180 4a + a = 180 (adj. s on st. line) (Figure 3)
a = 28
G1 Find the least value of x so that |1 2x| + |1 3x| + |1 5x| = 1.

1 Method 2
When x < , 1 2x + 1 3x + 1 5x = 1
5 By triangle inequality |a| + |b| |a + b|
1 |1 2x| + |1 3x| + |1 5x|
x= (rejected)
5 |1 2x + 1 3x + 5x 1| = 1
1 1 Equality holds when 1 2x, 1 3x and 5x 1
When x , 1 2x + 1 3x + 5x 1 = 1
5 3 1 1 1
i.e. x and x and x
1 1 2 3 5
0=0 x
5 3 1 1
i.e x
1 1 3 5
When < x , 1 2x + 3x 1 + 5x 1 = 1
3 2 1
The minimum value of x = .
1 5
6x = 2 x = (rejected)
3
1
When < x, 2x 1 + 3x 1 + 5x 1 = 1
2
2
x= (rejected)
5
1
The least value of x = .
5
G2 A solid cube with edges of length 9 cm is painted completely on the outside. It is then cut into
27 congruent little cubes with edges 3 cm. Find the total area of the unpainted faces of these
cubes.
There are 8 cubes each painted with 3 sides. Number of unpainted surfaces = 3/cube
There are 6 cubes each painted with 1 side. Number of unpainted surfaces = 5/cube
There is 1 cube which is unpainted.
Total area of the unpainted faces = (83 + 124 + 65 + 16) 32 cm2 = 972 cm2
Method 2 Total surface area of the 27 little cubes = 27632 cm2 = 1458 cm2
Total area of painted surface = 692 cm2 = 486 cm2
The total area of the unpainted faces of these cubes = (1458 486) cm2 = 972 cm2
G3 In a race of 2000 m, A finishes 200 m ahead of B and 290 m ahead of C. If B and C continue
to run at their previous average speeds, then B will finish x metres ahead of C. Find x.
Let the speeds of A, B C be a m/s, b m/s, c m/s respectively.
Suppose A, B, C finishes the race in t1 s, t2 s, t3 s.
at1 = 2000
bt1 + 200 = 2000 bt1 = 1800 (1)
ct1 + 290 = 2000 ct1 = 1710 (2)
c 1710 19
(2) (1): = = (3)
b 1800 20
2000
t2 = (4)
b
x = 2000 ct2
c
= 2000 2000 by (4)
b
c 19
= 2000 1 = 2000 1 by (3)
b 20
1
= 2000 = 100
20
G4 Given that the perimeter of an equilateral triangle inscribed in a circle is 12. Find the area of
the circle in terms of .
The length of the triangle = 4
Let the radius of the circumscribed circle be r.
2r cos 30 = 4
4
r=
3
2
4 16
The area of the circle = =
3 3
G5 Given that x > 0 and y > 0, find the value of y if (log3 x )(log x 2 x )(log 2 x y ) = log x x 2 .
log x log 2 x log y log x 2

By the change of base formula, = =2
log 3 log x log 2 x log x
log y = 2 log 3
y=9
G6 There are n rectangles in figure 1. Find n.
Let the length and the width of the smallest rectangle be a and b
respectively.
Number of the smallest rectangles = 7
Number of rectangles with dimension a2b = 4
Number of rectangles with dimension 2ab = 5 (Figure 1)
Number of rectangles with dimension 2a2b = 2
Number of rectangles with dimension 3ab = 3
Total number of rectangles = 7 + 4 + 1 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 3 + 2 + 1 = 27
G7 The base of a triangle is 80 cm and one of the base angles is 60. The sum of the lengths of
the other two sides is 90 cm. The length of the shortest side of this triangle is a cm. Find a.
Let B = 60, BC = 80 cm, AB = c cm, AC = b cm, then b + c = 90.
By cosine rule, b2 = (90 c)2 = 802 + c2 2c80 cos 60
8100 180c = 6400 80c
1700 = 100c
c = 17, b = 90 17 = 73
The shortest side is 17 cm (a = 17).
G8 A student on a vacation of d days observed that:
(i) it rained 7 times, morning or afternoons;
(ii) when it rained in the afternoon, it was clear in the morning;
(iii) there were 5 clear afternoons;
(iv) there were 6 clear mornings.
What is the value of d?
Suppose it rained in the morning for x days, rained in the afternoon in y days and the number
of clear days (both in the morning and the afternoon) be z.
x + y = 7 (1)
x + z = 5 (2)
y + z = 6 (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(x + y + z) = 18
d=x+y+z=9
G9 [a] denotes the greatest integer not greater than a. For example, [1] = 1, [ 2 ] = 1 ,
1
[ 2 ] = 2 . If [5 x] = 3 x + , find the value of x.
2
1 1
[5 x] = 3 x + 5x = 3x + + a, where 0 a < 1
2 2
1 1
a = 2x 0 2x < 1
2 2
1 3
2x <
2 2
3 9
3x <
4 4
5 1 11
3x + <
4 2 4
1 1
Q 3x + is an integer 3x + = 2
2 2
1
x=
2
1 1 2
G10 Given that = .
n n + 2 n ( n + 2)
1 1 1 1 1
Find the value of a if a = + + +L+ +L+ .
1 3 3 5 5 7 n ( n + 2) 111 113
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
a = 1 + + + L +
2 3 3 5 5 7 111 113
1 1
= 1
2 113
56
=
113
Individual Events
5
SI a 2 I1 a 6 I2 A I3 a 6 I4 a 8 I5 A 1
16
b 54 b 12 B 60 b *9 b 10 B 36
see the remarks
1
c 2 c 10 C 15 c 16 c 3 C
2
d 1 d 20 D 68 d 48 d 203 D 50
Group Events
1
SG a 19 G6 a 4, G7 a 24 G8 a 56 G9 A 2 G10 a 10
2
b 8 b 16 b 1024 b 83 B 1 b 37
1 3 1
c c c 2 c 256 C 4 c
50 7 16
d 200 d 186 d 1 d 711040 D 9 d 4
Sample Individual Event (1985 Final Sample Individual Event)
SI.1 The sum of two numbers is 40, their product is 20. If the sum of their reciprocals is a, find a.
Let the two numbers be x, y.
x + y = 40; xy = 20
1 1
a=
x y
x y
=
xy
40
= =2
20
SI.2 If b cm2 is the total surface area of a cube of side (a 1) cm, find b.
b = 6(2 + 1)2 = 54
SI.3 One ball is taken at random from a bag containing (b 4) white balls and (b + 46) red balls. If
c
is the probability that the ball is white, find c.
6
There are 50 white balls and 100 red balls.
50 1 2 c
P(white ball) =
150 3 6 6
c=2
SI.4 The length of a side of an equilateral triangle is c cm. If its area is d 3 cm2, find d.
1 2
2 sin 60 d 3
2
3d 3
d=1
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The equation x2 ax + (a + 3) = 0 has equal roots. Find a, if a is a positive integer.
= (a)2 4(a + 3) = 0
a2 4a 12 = 0
(a 6)(a + 2) = 0
a = 6 or a = 2 (rejected)
I1.2 In a test, there are 20 questions. a marks will be given to a correct answer and 3 marks will be
deducted for each wrong answer. A student has done all the 20 questions and scored 48 marks.
Find b, the number of questions that he has answered correctly.
6b 3(20 b) = 48
9b = 108
b = 12
I1.3 If x : y 2 : 3, x : z 4 : 5, y : z b : c, find c.
x:y:z=4:6:5
y : z = 6 : 5 = 12 : 10
c = 10
I1.4 Let P(x, d) be a point on the straight line x + y = 22 such that the slope of OP equals to c (O is
the origin). Determine d.
x + d = 22
x = 22 d
d
mOP = =c
x
d
10
22 d
d = 220 10d
d = 20
Individual Event 2
3
I2.1 In square PQRS, Y is the mid-point of the side QR and PX = PQ . P X Q
4
If A is the ratio of the area of the shaded triangle to the area of the
square, find A. Y
Let PQ = 4x, PX = 3x, QX = x, QY = YR = 2x
A=
4 x 2 12 4 x3x 12 x2 x 12 4 x2 x S R
4 x 2
5
=
16
I2.2 A man bought a number of ping-pong balls where a 16A% sales tax is added. If he did not
have to pay tax he could have bought 3 more balls for the same amount of money. If B is the
total number of balls that he bought, find B.
Let the price of 1 ping-pong ball be x. Sales tax = 5%
Bx(1 + 5%) = (B + 3)x
21
B= B + 3
20
21B = 20B + 60
B = 60
I2.3 Refer to the diagram, find C. R S
C
PQS = C (s in the same segment)
B
C + 45 = B (ext. of )
45
C = 60 45 = 15 Q P
I2.4 The sum of 2C consecutive even numbers is 1170. If D is the largest of them, find D.
30
2 D 30 1 2 1170
2
D = 68
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If 183a8 is a mu1tiple of 287, find a.
287 = 741 and 26147 = 18298
183a8 18298 = 10(a + 1), a multiple of 7
a=6
183a8
Method 2 The quotient should be a two digit number.
287
183
The first digit of (approximate value) is 6. The last digit must be 4 ( 74 = 28)
3
28764 = 18368
a=6
I3.2 The number of positive factors of a2 is b, find b.
Reference 1993 HI8, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2002 FG4.1, 2005 FI4.4
Remark: The original question is: The number of factors of a2 , which may include
negative factors.
62 = 2232
Factors of 36 are in the form 2x3y, where 0 x 2, 0 y 2.
The number of factors = (1 + 2)(1 + 2) = 9
I3.3 In an urn, there are c balls, b of them are either black or red, (b + 2) of them are either red or
white and 12 of them are either black or white. Find c.
Suppose there are x black balls, y red balls, z white balls.
x + y = 9 (1)
y + z = 11 (2)
z + x = 12 (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(x + y + z) = 32
c = x + y + z = 16
I3.4 Given f (3 + x) = f (3 x) for all values of x, and the equation f (x) = 0 has exactly c distinct
roots. Find d, the sum of these roots.
Let one root be 3 + .
f (3 + ) = 0 = f (3 )
3 is also a root.
3++3=6
Sum of a pair of roots = 6
There are 16 roots, i.e. 8 pairs of roots
Sum of all roots = 86 = 48
Individual Event 4
I4.1 The remainder when x6 8x3 + 6 is divided by (x 1)(x 2) is 7x a, find a.
Let f (x) = x6 8x3 + 6
f (1) = 1 8 + 6 = 7 a
a=8
I4.2 If x2 x + 1 = 0 and b = x3 3x2 + 3x + a, find b.
b = x(x2 x + 1) 2(x2 x + 1) + 10
= 10
I4.3 Refer to the diagram, find c. E
C
Reference: 1989 FG10.2 A b 15
ADE ~ ABC, AD : AB = 10 : 15 = 2 : 3 9
D
c
AD : DB = 2 : 1
G F B
BD : AB = 1 : 3
BDF ~ BAG, c : 9 = 1 : 3
c=3
I4.4 If c boys were all born in June 1990 and the probability that their birthdays are all different is
d
, find d.
225
29 28 d
P(3 boys were born in different days) = 1
30 30 225
d = 203
Individual Event 5
4 4 2
I5.1 Given 1 2 0 . If A = , find A.
x x x
2
2
1 0
x
2
A= =1
x
I5.2 If B circular pipes each with an internal diameter of A cm carry the same amount of water as a
pipe with an internal diameter 6 cm, find B.
(1)2B = (6)2
B = 36
I5.3 If C is the area of the triangle formed by x-axis, y-axis and the line Bx + 9y = 18, find C.
36x + 9y = 18
1
x-intercept = , y-intercept = 2
2
1 1 1
C = 2=
2 2 2
I5.4 Fifteen square tiles with side 10C units long are arranged as P
shown. An ant walks along the edges of the tiles, always
keeping a black tile on its left. Find the shortest distance D that
the ant would walk in going from P to Q.
Q
Length of a square = 10C = 5 P
As shown in the figure, D = 10(10C) = 50
Sample Group Event (1985 Sample Group Event)

SG.1 If x*y = xy + 1 and a = (2*4)*2, find a.
2*4 = 2(4) + 1 = 9
(2 * 4)*2 = 9*2 = 9(2) + 1 = 19
SG.2 If the bth prime number is a, find b.

List the prime number in ascending order: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19.
b=8
1 1 1 1
SG.3 If c = 1 1 1 1 , find c in the simplest fractional form.
2 3 4 50
1 2 3 49 1
c =
2 3 4 50 50
SG.4 If d is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of radius 10, find d.

Diameter = 20 = diagonal of the square
Let the side of the square be x.
By Pythagoras Theorem, 2x2 = 202 = 400
d = x2 = 200
Group Event 6
G6.1 If log2 a 2 loga 2 = 1, find a.
log a 2 log 2
1
log 2 log a
(log a)2 2 (log 2)2 = log 2 log a
(log a)2 log 2 log a 2 (log 2)2 = 0
(log a 2 log 2)(log a + log 2) = 0
log a = 2 log 2 or log 2
1
a = 4 or
2
G6.2 If b = log3[2(3 + 1)(32 + 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1], find b.

b = log3[(3 1)(3 + 1)(32 + 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3[(32 1)(32 + 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3[(34 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3[(38 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3(316 1 + 1) = 16
G6.3 If a 31-day month is taken at random, find c, the probability that there are 5 Sundays in the
month.
1st day = Sunday 29th day = 5th Sunday
1st day = Saturday 30th day = 5th Sunday
1st day = Friday 31st day = 5th Sunday
3
Probability =
7
G6.4 A group of 5 people is to be selected from 6 men and 4 women. Find d, the number of ways
that there are always more men than women.
3 men and 2 women, number of combinations = C36 C24 = 120
4 men and 1 woman, number of combinations = C46 C14 = 60
5 men, number of combinations = C56 = 6
Total number of ways = 120 + 60 + 6 = 186
Group Event 7
G7.1 There are a zeros at the end of the product 123100. Find a.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
a = 24
G7.2 Find b, if b is the remainder when 199810 is divided by 104.

199810 = (2000 2)10
10
= Ck10 200010k 2 k
k 0
9
= Ck10 200010k 2 k 210
k 0
210 mod 104 ( C910 2000109 21 = 10000m, where m is an integer)

1024 mod 104
b = 1024
G7.3 Find the largest value of c, if c = 2 x + 2 x 1 and x > 1.

(c + x 2)2 = 4(x 1)
c2 + x2 + 4 + 2cx 4x 4c = 4x 4
x2 + 2(c 4)x + (c2 4c + 8) = 0
For real values of x, 0
4(c 4)2 4(c2 4c + 8) 0
c2 8c + 16 c2 + 4c 8 0
8 4c
c2
The largest value c = 2
Method 2
Let y = x 1 , then y2 = x 1
x = y2 + 1
c = 2 (y2 + 1) + 2y = 2 (1 y)2 2
The largest value of c = 2.
3 2d
G7.4 Find the least value of d, if 2 3.
5
3 2d
3 23
5
3 2d
5 1
5
25 3 2d 5
28 2d 2
14 d 1
The least value of d = 1
Group Event 8
G8.1 From 1 to 121, there are a numbers which are multiplies of 3 or 5. Find a.
Reference: 1993 FG8.3-4, 1998 HI6, 2015 FI3.1
Number of multiples of 3 = 40 (120 = 340)
Number of multiples of 3 or 5 = a = 40 + 24 8 = 56
G8.2 From 1 to 121, there are b numbers which are not divisible by 5 nor 7. Find b.
Number of multiples of 5 or 7 = 24 + 17 3 = 38
Number which are not divisible by 5 nor 7 = 121 38 = 83
From the digits 1, 2, 3, 4, when each digit can be used repeatedly, 4-digit numbers are formed. Find
G8.3 c, the number of 4-digit numbers that can be formed.
c = 44 = 256
G8.4 d, the sum of all these 4-digit numbers.
Reference: 2002 HI4
There are 256 different numbers
1, 2, 3, 4 each appears 64 times in the thousands, hundreds, tens and units digit.
d = [1000(1 + 2 + 3 + 4) + 100(1 + 2 + 3 + 4) + 10(1 + 2 + 3 + 4) + 1 + 2 + 3 + 4]64
= 1111(10)64 = 711040
Group Event 9
A, B, C, D are different integers ranging from 0 to 9 and A B A
Find A, B, C and D. A B A
(ABA)2 = (CCDCC) < 100000 C C D C C
(ABA) < 100000 < 316
A = 1, 2 or 3
When A = 1, then A2 = 1 = C contradict that A and C must be different rejected
When A = 2, C = 4
(202 + 10B)2 = 44044 + 100D
40804 + 4040B + 100B2 = 44044 + 100D
4040B + 100B2 = 3240 + 100D
404B + 10B2 = 324 + 10D
B = 1, 414 = 324 + 10D
D=9
When A = 3, C = 9
(303 + 10B)2 = 99099 + 100D
91809 + 6060B + 100B2 = 99099 + 100D
606B + 10B2 = 729 + 10D
B = 1, 616 = 729 + 10D
no solution for D
A = 2, B = 1, C = 4, D = 9
Group Event 10
In rectangle ABCD, AD 10, CD 15, P is a point inside the rectangle such that PB 9, PA 12.
Find (Reference: 2001 FG2.2, 2003 FI3.4)
G10.1 a, the length of PD and
A 15
AP2 + BP2 = 122 + 92 = 144 + 81 = 225 = 152 = AB2 B

APB = 90 (Converse, Pythagoras theorem)
9 3 4 12 9
Let ABP = , then cos = = , sin = 10 10
15 5 5
P
BAP = 90 (s sum of )
DAP = D
C
PBC = 90
3
a = PD = 10 2 12 2 2 10 12 (Cosine rule on ADP)
5
a = 10
G10.2 b, the length of PC.

4
b = CP = 10 2 9 2 2 10 9 = 37
5
sin 20 cos 20 cos 40 cos 60 cos 80

G10.3 It is given that sin 2 = 2 sin cos . Find c, if c = .
sin 160
2 sin 20 cos 20 cos 40 cos 60 cos 80 2 sin 40 cos 40 cos 60 cos 80
C= =
2 sin 160 4 sin 160
2 sin 80 cos 60 cos 80 sin 160 12 1
= = =
8 sin 160 8 sin 160 16
tan A tan B
G10.4 It is given that tan(A + B) = . Find d, if
1 tan A tan B
d = (1 + tan 21)(1 + tan 22)(1 + tan 23)(1 + tan 24).
tan A tan B
If A + B = 45, 1 = tan(A + B) =
1 tan A tan B
1 tan A tan B = tan A + tan B
2 = 1 + tan A + tan B + tan A tan B
(1 + tan A)(1 + tan B) = 2
d = (1 + tan 21) (1 + tan 24)(1 + tan 22)(1 + tan 23)
= 22 = 4
3
92-93 1 34 2 121 3 2 4 5 720
Individual 5
6 11260 7 11 8 80 9 13 10 9
1 2 km 2 45 3 6 4 211 5 9
92-93
13
Group 6 7 7 26 8 2 3 9 70 10
3
Individual Events
I1 X is a point on the line segment BC as shown in figure 1. D
A
If AB 7, CD 9 and BC 30 , find the minimum value of AX + XD. 9
7
Reference: 1983 FG8.1, 1991 HG9, 1996 HG9
B C
Reflect point A along BC to A. X
30
By the property of reflection.
AB BC and AB = 7 (Figure 1)
Join AD, which cuts BC at X.
ABX ABX (S.A.S.)
AX + XD = AX + XD
This is the minimum when A, X, D are collinear.
Draw AE // BC which intersects DC produced at E.
Then AE DE (corr. s, BC // AE)
AE = 30 and CE = 7 (opp. sides, rectangle)
AD2 = 302 + (7 + 9)2 = 1156 AD = 34
The minimum value of AX + XD = 34
I2 In quadrilateral ABCD, AD // BC, and AC, BD intersect at O (as shown A D
in figure 2). Given that area of BOC 36, area of AOD 25,
determine the area of the quadrilateral ABCD. O
Reference: 1997 HG3, 2000 FI2.2, 2002 FI1.3, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
B C
AOD ~ COB (equiangular)
(Figure 2)
AO 2 area of AOD 25

OC 2 area of BOC 36
AO 5

OC 6
5 5
Area of AOB = area of BOC = 36 = 30
6 6
6 6
Area of COD = area of AOD = 25 = 30
5 5
Area of quadrilateral ABCD = 25 + 30 + 36 + 30 = 121
I3 In figure 3, ABCD is a square of side 8( 2 1) . Find the radius of the A B

small circle at the centre of the square.
Let AC and BD intersect at O. AC BD.
Let H, K be the centres of two adjacent circles touch each other at E.
The small circle touches one of the other circles at P.
(Figure 3)
HE = EK =
CD
4

= 2 2 1 = KP, HK = 4 2 1 C
A
D
B
OH = OK = HK cos 45 = 2 2 2

OP = OK KP = 2 2 2 2 2 1 = 2 O
The radius = 2 P
H E K
D C
I4 Thirty cards are marked from 1 to 30 and one is drawn at random. Find the probability of
getting a multiple of 2 or a multiple of 5.
Let A be the event that the number drawn is a multiple of 2.
B be the event that the number drawn is a multiple of 5.
A B is the event that the number drawn is a multiple of 10.
P(A B) = P(A) + P(B) P(A B)
15 6 3
=
30 30 30
18 3
= =
30 5
I5 The areas of three different faces of a rectangular box are 120, 72 and 60 respectively. Find its
volume.
Let the lengths of sides of the box be a, b, c, where a > b > c.
ab = 120 (1)
bc = 60 (2)
ca = 72 (3)
(1)(2) (3): (abc)2 = (6062)2
abc = 720 The volume is 720.
n(n 1)(2n 1)
I6 For any positive integer n , it is known that 12 + 22 + + n2 = . Find the value
6
of 122 + 142 + 162 + + 402. (Reference: 1989 HG3)
122 + 142 + 162 + + 402 = 4 6 2 7 2 82 20 2

= 4 12 20 2 12 52
202141 5611
= 4
6 6
= 4(2870 55) = 11260
I7 If x and y are prime numbers such that x2 y2 = 117, find the value of x.
(x + y)(x y) = 117 = 3213
Without loss of generality, assume x y.
x + y = 117, x y = 1 (1)
or x + y = 39, x y = 3 (2)
or x + y = 13, x y = 9 (3)
From (1), x = 59, y = 58, not a prime, rejected
From (3), x = 11, y = 2 x = 11
I8 If m is the total number of positive divisors of 54000, find the value of m.

Reference 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2002 FG4.1, 2005 FI4.4
54000 = 243353
Positive divisors are in the form 2x3y5z where x, y, z are integers and 0 x 4, 0y3, 0z3
Total number of positive factors = 544 = 80
I9 If a is a real number such that a 2 a 1 0 , find the value of a 4 2a 3 3a 2 2a 10 .
Reference: 2000 HG1, 2001 FG2.1, 2007 HG3, 2009 HG2 a2 a 3
By division algorithm, a 2 a 1 a 4 2a 3 3a 2 2a 10
a 4 2a 3 3a 2 2a 10 a 4 a3 a 2
= (a2 a 1)(a2 a + 3) + 13
a 3 4a 2 2a
= 13
a3 a2 a
3a 2 3a 10
3a 2 3a 3
13
I10 In figure 4, BDE and AEC are straight lines, AB 2, BC 3, B
ABC 60 , AE : EC 1 : 2. If BD : DE 9 : 1 and area of
a 3
DBA = , find the value of a.
20 D
1 2 3 3 3
Area of ABC = AB BC sin 60 = 3 = A C
2 2 2 2 E
1 3 (Figure 4)
Area of ABE = area of ABC =
3 2
9 9 3
Area of ABD = area of ABE =
10 20
a=9
Group Events
G1 A car P is 10 2 km north of another car Q. The two P
P 4 km/h 3 km/h
4 km/h
cars start to move at the same time with P moving
C
south-east at 4 km/h and Q moving north-east at 3 A
5 km/h
10 2 km B
km/h. Find their smallest distance of separation in km. 10 2 km
Consider the relative velocity.
Q G
Keep Q fixed, the velocity of P relative to Q is 5 km/h
3 km/h Q
distance diagram velocity diagram
in the direction of PB, where BPQ = .
Let APB = , APQ = 45
3 4
sin = , cos =
5 5
sin = sin(45 ) = sin 45 cos cos 45 sin
1 4 1 3 1
= =
2 5 2 5 5 2
When the course of PB is nearest to Q (i.e at G),
1
The shortest distance is GQ = PQ sin = 10 2 = 2 km
5 2
G2 If , are the roots of the equation x2 3x 3 = 0, find 3 + 12.
2 3 3 = 0
3 = 32 + 3 = 3(3 + 3) + 3 = 12 + 9
+ = 3, = 3
3 + 12 = 12 + 9 + 12
= 123 + 9 = 45
G3 As shown in figure 1, the area of ABC is 10. D, E, F are C
points on AB, BC and CA respectively such that AD : DB
2 : 3, and area of ABE area of quadrilateral BEFD. F E
Find the area of ABE.
Join DE. Area of ADE = area of DEF
A B
ADE and DEF have the same base and the same height D
DE // AC (Figure 1)
BE : EC = BD : DA = 3 : 2 (theorem of equal ratio)
BE 3
Area of DEF = Area of ABC = 10 =6
BC 3 2
G4 What is the maximum number of regions produced by drawing 20 straight lines on a plane?
2 lines: maximum number of regions = 4 = 2 + 2
3 lines: maximum number of regions = 7 = 2 + 2 + 3
4 lines: maximum number of regions = 11 = 2 + 2 + 3 + 4
..............................................................................................
21
20 lines, maximum number of regions = 2 + 2 + 3 + + 20 = 1 20 = 211
2
G5 The product of 4 consecutive positive integers is 3024. Find the largest integer among the four.
Let the four integers be x, x + 1, x + 2, x + 3.
Reference 1993 HG6, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3, 2013HI5
x(x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 3) = 3024 Method 2
(x2 + 3x)(x2 + 3x + 2) = 3024 3024 + 1 = 3025 = 552
(x2 + 3x)2 + 2(x2 + 3x) + 1 = 3025 3024 = 552 12 = (55 1)(55 + 1)
2 2 2
(x + 3x + 1) = 55 3024 = 5456 = 6978
x2 + 3x + 1 = 55 or x2 + 3x + 1 = 55
The largest integer is 9.
x2 + 3x 54 = 0 or x2 + 3x + 56 = 0
(x 6)(x + 9) = 0 or no real solution
x>0x=6
The largest integer = 9
G6 Find the sum of all real roots of the equation (x + 2)(x + 3)(x + 4)(x + 5) = 3.
Reference 1993 HG5, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3, 2013 HI5
Let t = x + 3.5 Method 2
(t 1.5)(t 0.5)(t + 0.5)(t + 1.5) = 3 (x + 2)(x + 5)(x + 3)(x + 4) = 3
5 2 9 (x2 + 7x + 10)(x2 + 7x + 12) = 3
t t 3 0
4
2 16 Let y = x2 + 7x
2
2 5 (y + 10)(y + 12) = 3
t 4 0 y2 + 22y + 117 = 0
4
(y + 9)(y + 13) = 0
2 5 2 5 When y = 9 = x2 + 7x
t 2 t 2 0
4 4 x2 + 7x + 9 = 0
When y = 13 = x2 + 7x
2 13 13
t = t = x2 + 7x + 13 = 0
4 2
= 49 52 < 0, no solution
7 13 Sum of roots = 7
x = t 3.5 =
2
Sum of real roots = 7
G7 If a is an integer and a7 = 8031810176, find the value of a.
1280000000 = 207 < 8031810176 < 307 = 21870000000
Clearly a is an even integer.
27 8, 47 4, 67 6, 87 2 (mod 10)
a = 26
x 2 xy y 2 3 x 3 y 1
G8 If x and y are real numbers satisfying and x > y > 0,
xy 1
find the value of x. Reference: 2010 FI1.3, 2013 FI4.4
Let t = x + y, (1) becomes (x + y)2 3 3(x + y) = 1
t2 3t 4 = 0
(t + 1)(t 4) = 0
t = 1 (rejected) or t = 4
x + y = 4 and xy = 1
x and y are the roots of u2 4u + 1 = 0
x =2 3
G9 Each side of a square is divided into four equal parts and straight lines
are joined as shown in figure 2. Find the number of rectangles which
are not squares. (Reference: 2013 FI1.1)
Number of rectangles including squares = C25 C25 = 100
Number of squares = 16 + 9 + 4 + 1 = 30
Total number of rectangles which are not squares = 100 30 = 70
(Figure 2)
5
G10 If 0 90 and cos sin = , find the value of cos + sin .
3
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4, 2014 HG3
cos sin 2 5
9
5
1 2 sin cos =
9
4
2 sin cos = 0
9
2 9 sin cos = 0
2(sin2 + cos2 ) 9 sin cos = 0
2 tan2 9 tan + 2 = 0
9 65 9 65
tan = or
4 4
9 65 9 65 4
When tan = , sin = , cos =
4
3 13 5 3 13 5
,

5 65 5
Original equation LHS = cos sin = =

3 13 5
3
(reject)
9 65 9 65 4
4
3 13 5 3 13 5
,

5
Original equation LHS = cos sin =
3
9 65 4 13
cos + sin =
+

3 13 5 3 13 5
=
3
Method 2
cos > sin < 45 2 < 90
cos sin 2 5
9
5
1 2 sin cos =
9
4 65
sin 2 = cos 2 = 2 < 90
9 9
cos sin cos sin 5

cos sin
3
cos2 sin2 =
5
cos sin
3
65
= cos 2 =
5
cos sin
9 3
65 5 13
cos + sin = =
9 3 3
Method 3
cos sin 2 5
9
5
1 2 sin cos =
9
4
2 sin cos =
9
13
1 + 2 sin cos =
9
13
9
cos sin 2 13
9
13 13
cos + sin = or
3 3
0 90
cos + sin > 0
13
cos + sin =
3
Individual Events
I1 a 2 I2 a 136 I3 a 4 I4 a 8 I5 a 20
b 2 b 2620 b 24 b 9 b 2
c 2 c 100 c 50 c 4 c 257
d 1 d 50 d 500 d 54 d 7
Group Events
G6 p 2 G7 a 36 G8 m 2 G9 a 9 G10 a 50
m 8 b 18 d 3 b 3 b 10
r 1 c 2 n 96 x 11 c 15
s 2 d 6 s 95856 y 10 d 60
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Given that 72x = 36 and 7x = 6

a

7x = 6
7x = 6
a

2 = 61
a=2
I1.2 Find the value of b if log2{log2[log2(2b) + a] + a} = a.
log2{log2[log2(2b) + 2] + 2} = 2
log2[log2(2b) + 2] + 2 = 22 = 4
log2[log2(2b) + 2] = 2
log2(2b) + 2 = 22 = 4
log2(2b) = 2
2b = 22 = 4
b=2
I1.3 If c is the total number of positive roots of the equation
(x b) (x 2) (x + 1) = 3(x b) (x + 1), find the value of c.
(x 2) (x 2) (x + 1) 3(x 2) (x + 1) = 0
(x 2) (x + 1) [(x 2) 3] = 0
(x 2) (x + 1) (x 5) = 0
x = 2, 1 or 5
Number of positive roots = c = 2
I1.4 If 3 2 2 c d , find the value of d.
Reference: 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
3 2 2 = 1 2 2 2
= 1 2 2 2
2 2
= 2 1 = 2 1
2
d=1
Individual Event 2
4 14
I2.1 If sin = , find a, the area of the quadrilateral.
5
Let the height be h.
4 h
tan = =
3 6
h=8 20
Area =
1
14 20 8 = 136
2
I2.2 If b = 1262 a2, find b.
b = 1262 a2
= (126 136)(126 + 136) = 2620
I2.3 Dividing $(3000 + b) in a ratio 5 : 6 : 8, the smallest part is $c. Find c.
Sum of money = $(3000 2620) = $380
5 5
c= 380 = 380 = 100
568 19

I2.4 In the figure, AP bisects BAC. Given that AB c, BP d,
PC 75 and AC 150, find d.
150
Let BAP = = CAP, APC = , BPC = 180 c
d 100 75 150
(1) and (2)

sin sin 180

sin sin
d P 75
C
(1) (2) d = 50
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is the remainder when 2614303940317 is divided by 13, find a.
2614303939000 = 1321100303000
2614303940317 = 1321100303000 + 1317 =1321100303000 + 1313 + 4
a=4
I3.2 Let P(x, b) be a point on the straight line x + y = 30 such that slope of OP a (O is the origin).
Determine b. (Reference: 1994 FI1.4)
x + b = 30
x = 30 b
b
mOP = =4
30 b
b = 120 4b
b = 24
I3.3 Two cyclists, initially (b + 26) km apart travelling towards each other with speeds 40 km/h
and 60 km/h respectively. A fly flies back and forth between their noses at 100 km/h. If the fly
flied c km before crushed between the cyclists, find c.
The velocity of one cyclist relative to the other cyclist is (40 + 60) km/h = 100 km/h.
Distance between the two cyclists = (24 + 26) km = 50 km
50 1
Time for the two cyclists meet = h= h
100 2
1
The distance the fly flied = 100 km = 50 km
2
c = 50
I3.4 In the figure, APK and BPH are straight lines. A
If d area of triangle HPK, find d.
BAP = KHP = 30 (given) 30 75
APB = KPH (vert. opp. s) 60 H
c
ABP ~ HKP (equiangular) 30
HK 50 P

60 75
B
HK = 40
1 K
d = 50 40 sin 30 = 500
2
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Given that the means of x and y, y and z, z and x are respectively 5, 9, 10. If a is the mean of x,
y, z, find the value of a.
x y yz zx
5 (1); 9 (2); 10 (3)
2 2 2
(1) + (2) + (3): x + y + z = 24
a=8
I4.2 The ratio of two numbers is 5 : a. If 12 is added to each of them, the ratio becomes 3 : 4. If b
is the difference of the original numbers and b > 0, find the value of b.
Let the two numbers be 5k, 8k.
5k 12 3

8k 12 4
20k + 48 = 24k + 36
4k = 12
k=3
5k = 15, 8k = 24
b = 24 15 = 9
I4.3 PQRS is a rectangle. If c is the radius of the smaller circle, 25

find the value of c. S I R
Let the centres of the two circles be C and D, with radius 9
9
and c respectively.
Suppose the circles touch each other at E. J 9 C 18
Further, assume that the circle with centre at C touches SR, 9-c 9 + c
E D
PS, PQ at I, J and G respectively. Let the circle with centre at F 16 - c c H
c c
D touches PQ, QR at K and H respectively. P G K Q
Join CI, CJ, CG, CED, DF, DK, DH.
CI SR, CJ PS, CG PQ, DK PQ, DH PR (tangent radius)
DK // HQ (corr. s eq.)
FDK = 90 (corr. s, DK // HQ)
DFGK is a rectangle (3 angles = 90)
DFG = 90 (s sum of polygon)
DFC = 90 (adj. son st. line)
C, E, D are collinear ( the two circles touch each other at E)
CI = CJ = CG = CE = 9 (radii of the circle with centre at C)
DH = DK = DE = c (radii of the circle with centre at D)
CD = c + 9
FG = DK = c (opp. sides of rectangle DFGK)
CF = 9 c
FD = GK (opp. sides of rectangle DFGK)
= PD PG KQ
= 25 9 c (opp. sides of rectangle)
= 16 c
CF + DF2 = CD2 (Pythagoras theorem)
2
(9 c)2 + (16 c)2 = (9 + c)2

81 18c + c2 + 256 32c + c2 = 81 + 18c + c2
c2 68c + 256 = 0
(c 4)(c 64) = 0
c = 4 or 64 (> 18, rejected)
I4.4 ABCD is a rectangle and CEF is an equilateral triangle, F
ABD = 6c, find the value of d.
Reference: HKCEE MC 1982 Q51 d
D C
ABD = 24 (given)
CAB = 24 (diagonals of rectangle)
AEB = 132 (s sum of ) E
CED = 132 (vert. opp. s)
6c
CEF = 60 ( of an equilateral triangle) A B
DEF = 132 60 = 72
ED = EC = EF (diagonals of rectangle, sides of equilateral )
DEF is isosceles (2 sides equal)
EFD = EDF (base s isos. )
d = (180 72) 2 = 54 (s sum of isos. )
Individual Event 5
I5.1 Two opposite sides of a rectangle are increased by 50% while the other two are decreased by
20%. If the area of the rectangle is increased by a%, find a.
Let the length and width be x and y respectively.
1.5x 0.8y = 1.2xy
a = 20
I5.2 Let f (x) = x3 20x2 + x a and g(x) = x4 + 3x2 + 2. If h(x) is the highest common factor of f (x)
and g(x), find b = h(1).
Reference: 1992 HI5
f (x) = x3 20x2 + x 20 = (x2 + 1)(x 20)
g(x) = x4 + 3x2 + 2 = (x2 + 1)(x2 + 2)
h(x) = H.C.F. = x2 + 1
b = h(1) = 2
I5.3 It is known that b16 1 has four distinct prime factors, determine the largest one, denoted by c
216 1 = (2 1)(2 + 1)(22 + 1)(24 + 1)(28 + 1) = 3517257
c = 257
I5.4 When c is represented in binary scale, there are d 0s. Find d.
257(x) = 100000001(ii)
d=7
Group Event 6
The following shows the graph of y = px2 + 5x + p. A (0, 2), y
1
B ,0 , C (2, 0), O (0, 0). N R
2
G6.1 Find the value of p.
x
1 O B M C
y = p x x 2 A
2
1
It passes through A(0, 2): 2 = p 2 .
2
p = 2
9
G6.2 If is the maximum value of y, find the value of m.
m
y = 2x2 + 5x 2
9 4 2 2 5 2
=
m 4 2
m=8
G6.3 Let R be a point on the curve such that OMRN is a square. If r is the x-coordinate of R, find
the value of r.
R(r, r) lies on y = 2x2 + 5x 2
r = 2r2 + 5r 2
2r2 4r + 2 = 0
r=1
G6.4 A straight line with slope 2 passes through the origin cutting the curve at two points E and
7
F. If is the y-coordinate of the midpoint of EF, find the value of s.
s
Sub. y = 2x into y = 2x2 + 5x 2
2x = 2x2 + 5x 2
2x2 7x + 2 = 0
Let E = (x1, y1), F = (x2, y2).
7
x1 + x2 =
2
7 y1 y 2 2 x1 2 x2 7
= = = (x1 + x2) =
s 2 2 2
s = 2
Group Event 7
OABC is a tetrahedron with OA, OB and OC being mutually
perpendicular. Given that OA OB OC 6x. C
G7.1 If the volume of OABC is ax3, find a.
ax3 = 6 x 6 x = 36x3
1 1 2
3 2 O B
a = 36
G7.2 If the area of ABC is b 3x 2 , find b. A
AB = BC = AC = 6 x 2 6 x 2 = 6x 2
ABC is equilateral
BAC = 60
Area of ABC = b 3x 2 =
1
2
2

6 x 2 sin 60 = 18 3 x 2
b = 18
G7.3 If the distance from O to ABC is c 3 x , find c.
By finding the volume of OABC in two different ways.
1
3

18 3 x 2 c 3 x 36 x 3
c=2
d
G7.4 If is the angle of depression from C to the midpoint of AB and sin = , find d.
3
1
3

18 3 x 2 c 3 x 36 x 3
Let the midpoint of AB be M.

OM AB OA OB
OC = 6x,
2 2
6 x 2 OM 6 x
2
OM = 3 2 x
CM = OM 2 OC 2
= 3 2 x 6 x
2 2
= 3 6x
d OC
sin = =
3 CM
6x 6
= =
3 6x 3
d=6
Group Event 8
Given that the equation x2 + (m + 1)x 2 = 0 has 2 integral roots ( + 1) and ( + 1) with < and
m 0. Let d = .
G8.1 Find the value of m.
( + 1)( + 1) = 2
+ 1 = 1, + 1 = 2 or + 1 = 2, + 1 = 1
(, ) = (2,1), (3,0)
When (, ) = (3, 0), sum of roots = ( + 1) + ( + 1) = (m + 1) m = 0 (rejected)
When (, ) = (2, 1), sum of roots = ( + 1) + ( + 1) = (m + 1) m = 2
G8.2 Find the value of d.
d = = 1 (2) = 3
Let n be the total number of integers between 1 and 2000 such that each of them gives a remainder
of 1 when it is divided by 3 or 7.
G8.3 Find the value of n.
These numbers give a remainder of 1 when it is divided by 21.
They are 1, 21 + 1, 212 + 1, , 2195 + 1 (= 1996)
n = 96
G8.4 If s is the sum of all these n integers, find the value of s.
s = 1 + 22 + 43 + + 1996 =
1
1 1996 96 = 95856
2
Group Event 9
BC, CA, AB are divided respectively by the points X, Y, Z
in the ratio 1 : 2. Let
area of AZY : area of ABC 2 : a and
area of AZY : area of XYZ 2 : b.
G9.1 Find the value of a.
2
area of AZY = area of ACZ (same height)
3
2 1
= area of ABC (same height)
3 3
a=9
G9.2 Find the value of b.
2 2
Similarly, area of BZX = area of ABC; area of CXY = area of ABC
9 9
area of XYZ = area of ABC area of AZY area of BZX area of CXY
1
= area of ABC
3
2 1
2 : b = area of AZY : area of XYZ = :
9 3
b=3
x
A die is thrown 2 times. Let be the probability that the sum of numbers obtained is 7 or 8 and
36
y
be the probability that the difference of numbers obtained is 1.
36
G9.3 Find the value of x.
Favourable outcomes are (1, 6), (2, 5), (3, 4), (4, 3), (5, 2), (6,1), (2,6), (3,5), (4,4), (5,3), (6,2)
x
P(7 or 8) =
36
x = 11
G9.4 Find the value of y.
Favourable outcomes are (1, 2), (2, 3), (3, 4), (4, 5), (5, 6), (6,5), (5, 4), (4, 3), (3, 2), (2, 1).
y
P(difference is 1) =
36
y = 10
Group Event 10
ABCD is a square of side length 20 5 x . P, Q are midpoints of DC D P
C
and BC respectively.
G10.1 If AP ax, find a.
AP = AD 2 DP 2 Q

2
= 20 5 x 10 5 x = 50x
2

a = 50 A B
G10.2 If PQ = b 10 x , find b.
PQ = CP 2 CQ 2 = 10 10 x
b = 10
G10.3 If the distance from A to PQ is c 10 x , find c.
c 10 x = AC distance from C to PQ
1
= 20 5 x 2 10 5 x
2
= 15 10 x
c = 15
d
G10.4 If sin = , find d.
100
1
2
1

Area of APQ = AP AQ sin = PQ c 10 x
2

50 x sin 10 10 x 15 10 x
1 2 1
2 2
d 3
sin = =
100 5
d = 60
1 100 2 3 3 4 4 60 5 20
6 C 7 10 8 4 9 5 10 16
91-92
11 12 12 35 13 1620 14 32 15 128
Individual
9 4
16 3 17 10 18 19 8 20
10 3
91-92 1 102 2 1 3 52 4 191 5 5

Group 6 10 7 42 8 3 9 1 10 7
Individual Events
If log10 x 3log10 x 4 0 and x > 1, find x.

4 2
I1
[(log10 x)2 4][(log10 x)2 + 1] = 0

log10 x = 2 or 2
1
x = 100 or (rejected)
100
28 x 15 y 19 xy
I2 If and xy 0 , find x.
18 x 21y 2 xy
28 15
y x 19 (1)
18 21
2 (2)
y x
286
7(1) + 5(2): 143
y
y=2
15
Put y = 2 into (1): 14 + = 19
x
x=3
I3 An integer a lying between 0 and 9 inclusive is randomly selected. It is known that the
p
probability that the equation x2 ax + 3 = 0 has no real root is , find p.
10
a2 12 < 0
0 a 2 3 3.46
a = 0, 1, 2 or 3
p=4
cos x 5 cos x 2 . Determine the largest possible
1 1
I4 x is an acute angle satisfying
2 2
value of x.
1 1 1
cos x cos x
2 2 2
1
cos x
2
x 60
The largest value of x is 60.
I5 Let f (x) be the highest common factor of x4 + 64 and x3 + 6x2 + 16x + 16, find f (2).
x4 + 64 = x4 + 16x2 + 64 16x2 = (x2 + 8)2 (4x)2 = (x2 + 4x + 8)(x2 4x + 8)
g(x) = x3 + 6x2 + 16x + 16
g(2) = 8 + 24 32 + 16 = 0
x + 2 is a factor of g(x).
By division, g(x) = (x + 2)(x2 + 4x + 8)
H.C.F. = f (x) = x2 + 4x + 8
f (2) = 22 + 4(2) + 8 = 20
I6 A fruit merchant divides a large lot of oranges into four classes: A, B, C, D. The number of
oranges in class A and class B doubles that in class C while the number of oranges in class B
and class D doubles that in class A. If 7 oranges from class B are upgraded to class A, class A
will then contain twice as many oranges as class B. It is known that one of the four classes
contains 54 oranges. Determine which one class it belongs to.
A + B = 2C (1)
B + D = 2A (2)
A + 7 = 2(B 7)
A = 2B 21 (3)
Sub. (3) into (1) and (2)
2B 21 + B = 2C
3B 21 = 2C (4)
B + D = 2(2B 21)
3B 42 = D (5)
(4) (5) 21 = 2C D (6)
If A = 54, from (3), B = 37.5 (reject)
If B = 54, from (4), C = 70.5 (reject)
If D = 54, from (6), C = 37.5 (reject)
If C = 54, from (4), B = 43; from (5), D = 87; from (3), A = 65
Answer C
n n
I7 Given that n is a positive integer, find ALL the real roots of x 2 10 2 0 .
x 10 0
2 n 1
2
2 n 1
2
x 10 x 10 0
2 n 1 2 n 1 2 n 1 2 n 1
x 10 x 10 x
2 n 1 2 n 1 2n 2 2n 2 2

10 2 x 10 x 10 0
x = 10
I8 If n is an integer randomly selected from 1 to 100, and the probability that the unit digit of
3
5678n is greater than 3 is , find x.
x
8 = 8, 8 = 64, 8 = 512, 8 = 4096, 85 = 32768
1 2 3 4
The pattern of unit digit repeats for every multiples of 4.

P(unit digit > 3) = 1 P(unit digit 3)
= 1 P(n = 3, 7, 11, , 99)
3
=
4
x=4
I9 In ABC, AB 8 cm, BC 6 cm and ABC 90. If the bisector of ACB cuts AB at R and
CR 3 a cm, find a.
Let BR = x cm, then AR = (8 x) cm.
Let D be the foot of perpendicular drawn from R onto AC C
CR = CR (common sides)
BCR = DCR = (given)

CBR = CDR = 90 (by construction)
BCR DCR (A.A.S.) 6 cm D
DR = x cm (corr. sides, s) 3 a
CD = BC = 6 cm (corr. sides, s)
AC = 10 cm (Pythagoras theorem) B A
R
AD = (10 6) cm = 4 cm
In ADR, x2 + 42 = (8 x)2 (Pythagoras theorem) 8 cm
16 = 64 16x
x=3
CR = 32 6 2 cm = 45 cm = 3 5 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
a=5
I10 In figure 1, arc BD is 4 times the arc AC, DEB 80 and D
ADC x, find x.
BAD 4x (s arcs) x
x + 4x = 80 (ext. of ADE)
x = 16 E 80
A B
(Figure 1) ()
C
I11 In figure 2, ABCD is a square. EDF is a straight line. M is the E
C
mid-point of AB. If the distances of A, M and C from the line EF are G
5 cm, 11 cm and x cm respectively, find x.
x
2a D
Let K, L and G be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from A, M, C
onto EF respectively. AK = 5 cm, ML= 11 cm, CG = x cm
Let CD = 2a cm, AM = a cm, BM = a cm.
From A, draw AJ ML, then AKLJ is a rectangle. 11 J
B
JL = 5 cm (opp. sides of rectangle) a M
L
a K
MJ = (11 5) cm = 6 cm A 5
(Figure 2) ()
It is easy to show that AMJ ~ DCG F
CG : MJ = CD : AM (ratio of sides, ~s)

x : 6 = 2a : a
x = 12
I12 In the figure, AB = AC = 2BC and BC = 20 cm. If BF is perpendicular to AC A
and AF = x cm, find x.

Let ABC = = ACB (base s isosceles )
AB = AC = 40
1
BC
2 10 1
cos =
AC 40 4
1
CF = BC cos 20 5 F
4
B C
AF = AC CF = 40 5 = 35 cm 20 cm
x = 35
I13 Figure 4 shows a figure obtained by producing the sides of a

13-sided polygon. If the sum of the marked angles is n, find n.
Consider the 13 small triangles outside.
Let the marked angles be x1, x2, , x13.
angle sum of 13 triangles = 13180 = 2340
x1 + x2 + + x13 + 2(sum of ext. of polygon) = 2340
x1 + x2 + + x13 = 2340 720 = 1620
n = 1620
I14 In figure 5, PQ is a diagonal of the cube. If PQ 4 cm and the total surface area
of the cube is x cm2, find x. (Reference: 1995 FI5.2, 2003 HI7)
Let the length of one side = a cm
a2 + a2 + a2 = 42 Pythagoras theorem
16 (Figure 5)
a2 =
3
x = 6a2 = 32
I15 If (3x 1)7 a1x 7 a2 x 6 a3 x 5 a8 , find the value of a1 a2 a3 a8 .
Put x = 1, 27 = a1 a2 a3 a8
a1 a2 a3 a8 = 128
I16 A(1, 1), B(a, 0) and C(1, a) are the vertices of the triangle ABC. Find the value of a if the area
of ABC is 2 square units and a > 0.
1 1
1 a 0
=2
2 1 a
1 1
|a2 + 1 a a| = 4
a2 2a + 1 = 4 or a2 2a + 1 = 4
a2 2a 3 = 0 or a2 2a + 5 = 0
(a 3)(a + 1) = 0 or no solution
a = 3 ( a > 0)
I17 If N 212 58 , find the number of digits of N. (Reference: 1982 FG10.1, 2012 HI4)
N = 24 108 = 16108
Number of digits = 10
ac
I18 If a : b 3 : 4 and a : c 2 : 5, find the value of .
a b2
2
a : b : c = 6 : 8 : 15
a = 6k, b = 8k, c = 15k
ac 6k 15k 90 9
= = =
a b
2 2
6k 8k 100 10
2 2
I19 A rectangular piece of paper of width 6 cm is folded such that one corner A 6 cm
D
touches the opposite side as shown in figure 6. If 30 and DE x cm,
find x. Reference American High School Mathematics Examination 1972 Q30
DE = DE = x cm common sides F
x cm
DFE = DCE = 90 by fold paper
EDF = EDC = by fold paper
DEF DEC (A.A.S.) B E C
x
CE = EF = x sin cm = x sin 30 cm = cm Method 2
2 Let BE = a cm
CED = FED = 60 (corr. s, s) DEF DEC (A.A.S.)
BEF = 180 260 = 60 (adj. s on st. line) CED = FED = 60 (corr. s, s)
x 1 x BEF = 60 (adj. s on st. line)
BE = EF cos 60 = = cm
2 2 4 EF = a cos 60 = 2a = CE = 6 a
BE + EC = BC = AD (opp. sides of rectangle) a=2
x x x sin 30 = 6 a
+ =6
4 2 x=8
x=8
1
I20 If sin x cos x and 0 x , find tan x.
5
Reference: 1993 HG10, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4, 2014 HG3
sin x cos x 2 1
25
1
1 + 2 sin x cos x =
25
24
+ 2 sin x cos x = 0
25
12 + 25 sin x cos x = 0
12(sin2 x + cos2 x) + 25 sin x cos x = 0
(3 sin x + 4 cos x)(4 sin x + 3 cos x) = 0
4 3
tan x = or
3 4
4 4 3 1
When tan x = , sin x = , cos x = ; original equation LHS = sin x + cos x =
3 5 5 5
3 3 4 1
When tan x = , sin x = , cos x = ; original equation LHS = sin x + cos x = (reject)
4 5 5 5
4
tan x =
3
Group Events
G1 A, B, C are three men in a team. The age of A is greater than the sum of the ages of B and C
by 16. The square of the age of A is greater than the square of the sum of the ages of B and C
by 1632. Find the sum of the ages of A, B and C.
A = B + C + 16 (1)
A2 = (B + C)2 + 1632 (2)
From (1), sub. B + C = A 16 into (2):
A2 = A2 32A + 256 + 1632
A = 59
B + C = 59 16 = 43
A + B + C = 59 + 43 = 102
abc abc abc
G2 a, b, c are non-zero real numbers such that .
c b a
(a b)(b c)(c a )
If x and x < 0, find the value of x. (Reference: 1999 FI2.1)
abc
ab ac bc
1 1 1
c b a
ab ac bc
=k
c b a
a + b = ck (1)
a + c = bk (2)
b + c = ak (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(a + b + c) = (a + b + c)k
a + b + c = 0 or k = 2
ab ac bc
x= = k3 < 0 (given)
c b a
k = 2 is rejected
a+b+c=0
a + b = c
ab
= 1
c
k = 1
x = (1)3 = 1
G3 An interior angle of an n-sided convex polygon is x. The sum of the other interior angles is
2468. Find x.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1990 FG10.3-4, 2002 FI3.4, 2013HI6
2468 = 18013 + 128
2468 + x = 180(n 2) s sum of polygon
x = 180(n 2) 18013 + 128
x = 180(n 15) + 128
x < 180
x = 128
G4 When a positive integer N is divided by 4, 7, 9, the remainders are 3, 2, 2 respectively. Find

the least value of N.
Reference: 1990 HG2
N = 4a + 3 (1)
N = 7b + 2 (2)
N = 9c + 2 (3), where a, b, c are integers
7b + 2 = 9c = 2
b = 9k, c = 7k for some integer k
(1) = (2): 4a + 3 = 7b + 2
7b 4a = 1
b = 3, a = 5 is a particular solution
The general solution is b = 3 + 4t, a = 5 + 7t for all real numbers t
3 + 4t = 9k
k = 3, t = 6 is the smallest set of integral solution
N = 4(5 + 76) + 3 = 191
G5 Find the remainder when 101991 is divided by 7. Method 2
1001 = 7143 10 7 3; 102 7 2
103 = 7143 1 103 7 6; 104 7 4
101991 = (103)663102 105 7 5; 106 7 1
= (7143 1)663100 The remainders pattern repeats for every
= (7m 1)(98 + 2) multiples of 6.
2 5 mod 7 101991 = (106)331105
The remainder is 5.
G6 In the figure, BD = DC, AP = AQ. A

If AB = 13 cm, AC = 7 cm and AP = x cm, find x.
From D, draw a parallel line DE // QA
7 cm
D is the mid-point of BC. 13 cm
E
BE = EA (intercept theorem) C
= 13 2 = 6.5 cm P
DE = 7 2 = 3.5 cm (mid-point theorem on ABC) D Q
APQ = AQP (base s. isos. , AP = AQ)
= EDP (corr. s, AQ // ED) B
PE = DE (side opp. equal s)
= 3.5 cm
AP = AE + EP = 6.5 + 35 = 10 cm
x = 10
1 1 1
G7 In the figure, BL = BC, CM = CA and AN = AB. If the areas
3 3 3
of PQR and ABC are 6 cm2 and x cm2 respectively, find x.
Reference American High School Mathematics Examination 1952 Q49
Denote [ABC] = area of triangle ABC.
Draw BEQF // BM // GC, GHRD // CN // FA, FJPG // AL // DB
as shown. AC intersects GF at J, BC intersects DG at H, AB
intersects DF at E.
Then AQPF, QRGP are congruent parallelograms. A
BDQR, RQFP are congruent parallelograms. CGRP, PRDQ are

F
congruent parallelograms. N
Q
AQF, PFQ, QRP, RQD, DBR, GPR, PGC are congruent s.
E J
D
Consider triangles AFJ and CPJ: R P

M
AF = QP (opp. sides of //-gram)

= RG (opp. sides of //-gram) B L H C
= PC (opp. sides of //-gram) G
AF // PC (by construction)
AFCP is a parallelogram (Two sides are eq. and //)
AJ = JC diagonal of a //-gram
AJF = CJP vert. opp. s
AFJ = CPJ alt. s AF // PC
AFJ CPJ (AAS)
Areas [CPJ] = [AFJ]
In a similar manner, [BRH] = [CGH], [AQE] = [BDE]
[ABC] = [PQR] + [AQC] + [CPQ] + [BRA]
= [PQR] + [AQPF] + [CPRG] + [BRQD]
= 7 [PQR] ( they are congruent triangles, so areas equal)
= 7 6 = 42
Method 2
By considering the areas of ACL and ABL
1 AC AL sin CAL
2
2
1 AB AL sin BAL

2
1
AC sin CAL
= 2 ...... (1)
AB sin BAL
By considering the areas of AMR and ABR
1
AM AR sin CAL MR
2
1 AB AR sin BAL

2
BR
AM sin CAL MR

AB sin BAL BR
2 AC sin CAL
MR
3

AB sin BAL BR
2 MR MR 4
By (1), 2 ......... (2)
3 BR BR 3
By considering the areas of ACN and BCN
1
AC CN sin ACN 1 AC sin ACN 1
2
1 BC CN sin BCN
...... (3)
2
2 BC sin BCN 2
By considering the areas of MCP and BCP

1 CM CP sin ACN
MP
2
1 BC CP sin BCN

2
BP
CM sin ACN MP

BC sin BCN BP
1 AC sin ACN
MP
3

BC sin BCN BP
1 1 MP
By (3),
3 2 BP
MP 1
......... (4)
BP 6
By (2) and (4), MP : PR : RB = 1 : 3 : 3
By symmetry NQ : QP : PC = 1 : 3 : 3 and NR : RQ : QA = 1 : 3 : 3
Let s stands for the area, x = area of ABC.
x
sABL = sBCM = sACN =
3
1 x x 1
and sANQ = sBLR = sCMP = (NQ = QC = 1 : 6 NQ = CN)
7 3 21 7
The total area of ABC: x = sABL + sBCM + sACN + sPQR 3 sANQ
x x x x
x = + + + 6 3
3 3 3 21
1
0=6 x
7
x = 42
Method 3 (Vector method)
Let AC = c , AB = b
Suppose BR : RM = r : s

r 23 c sb c 2b
By ratio formula, AR ; AL
rs 3
s 2r
rs 3r s
AR // AL 2
1
(their coefficients are in proportional)
3 3
3s = 4r
r:s=3:4
Suppose BP : PM = m : n, let CB = a

na m 13 c a 2 c
By ratio formula, CP ; CN
mn 3
n 3 m n
m
CP // CN m1 n (their coefficients are in proportional)
3
2
3
6n = m
m:n=6:1
r : s = 3 : 4 and m : n = 6 : 1
MP : PR : RB = 1 : 3 : 3
The remaining steps are similar, so is omitted.
G8 ABC is an equilateral triangle of side 12 cm, and P is any point A

inside the triangle (as shown in figure 3). If the sum of the
perpendicular distances from P to the three sides AB, BC and CA is
x cm, find x.
Reference 2005 HG9, 2015 HG2 P
Let the distance from P to AB, BC, CA be h1, h2, h3 respectively.
1
2
12h1
1
2
12h2
1
2
12h3 =area of ABC =
1
2

2
12 sin 60 3 3 B C
Figure 3
x = h1 + h2 + h3 = 3
G9 A sphere of radius r cm can just be covered on a table by a V
8r 2
conical vessel of volume cm3 (as shown in figure 4).
3
Determine the largest possible value of r.
Let the vertex of the cone be V, Q is the centre of the sphere, O h cm
is the centre of the base, AOB is the diameter of the base. VQO Q
r cm
are collinear and VQO AOB. r cm

Let OBQ = , the height be h cm and the base radius be R cm
R = r cot A O R cm B
r tan 2
h = R tan 2 =
tan
2 r tan 2 8r 2
r cot
1

3 tan 3
8 tan 8 tan
3 3
r= = = 4 tan2 (1 tan2 )
tan 2 2 tan
1 tan 2
2
1 4 1 2
r = 1 4 tan tan = 1 4 tan
2
4 2
r1
1
r is the maximum when tan2 =
2
In this case < 45, which is possible.
G10 a, b, c, d are four numbers. The arithmetic means of (i) a, b, c; (ii) b, c, d; (iii) a, b, d are
respectively 13, 15 and 17. If the median of a, b, c and d is c + 9, find the largest possible
value of c.
a + b + c = 313 = 39 (1)
b + c + d = 315 = 45 (2)
a + b + d = 317 = 51 (3)
(2) (1): d a = 6 (4) d > a
(3) (1): d c = 12 (5) d > c
a=d6
and c = d 12
The three numbers are d 12, d 6 and d in ascending order.
If b d 12, then the median is c + 9
2(d 12 + 9) = d 12 + d 6
6 = 18 reject
If d 12 < b d 6, then the median is c + 9
2(d 3) = b + d 6 b = d reject
If d 6 < b < d, then the median is c + 9
2(d 3) = b + d 6
b = d reject
If d b, then the median = c + 9
2(d 3) = d 6 + d accept
From (1), b = 39 a c
= 39 (d 6) (d 12)
= 45 d d + 12
= 57 2d
bd
57 2d d
19 d
c = d 12 19 12 = 7
The largest possible value of c is 7.
Individual Events
SI A 20 I1 n 10 I2 a 48 I3 a 2 I4 A 40 I5 a 45
B 4 a 25 b 144 b 3 B 6 b 15
C 5 z 205 c 4 c 12 C 198 c 12
5
D S 1 d 572 d 140 D 7 d 2
2
Group Events
SG 2550 G6 a 1 G7 a 8 G8 A 2 G9 x 6 G10 c 3
2452 b 52 b 10 b 171 y 6 a 2
P 2501 c 13 area 116 c 3 T10 200 b 5
Q 10001 d 3 tan 2 d 27 n 19 d 5
Sample Individual Event
SI.1 Given A = (bm)n + bm+n. Find the value of A when b 4, m n 1.
A = (41)1 + 41+1 = 4 + 16 = 20
SI.2 If 2A = B10 and B > 0, find B.
220 = 410
B=4
20 B 45
SI.3 Solve for C in the following equation: C.
C
20 4 45
C
C
125 = C3
C=5
SI.4 Find D in the figure.
5
D = C sin 30 = C
2
D
30
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If the sum of the interior angles of an n-sided polygon is 1440, find n.
180(n 2) = 1440
n = 10
I1.2 If x2 nx + a = 0 has 2 equal roots, find a.
(10)2 4a = 0
a = 25
I1.3 In the figure, if z = p + q, find z. A
ACB = 180 p (opp. s cyclic quad.)
a
ABC = 180 q (opp. s cyclic quad.)
180 p + 180 q + a = 180 (s sum of ) P p
z = p + q = 180 + a = 205 q Q
B C
I1.4 If S = 1 + 2 3 4 + 5 + 6 7 8 + + z, find S.
Reference: 1985 FG7.4, 1988 FG6.4, 1990 FG10.1, 1991 FSI.1
S = 1 + (2 3 4 + 5) + (6 7 8 + 9) + + (202 203 204 + 205) = 1
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If ar = 24 and ar4 = 3, find a.
ar 4 3 1
r3 = = =
ar 24 8
1
r=
2
ar = 24
1
a = 24
2
a = 48
2
a a
I2.2 If x x 2 x b , find b.
4 2
(x + 12)2 = x2 + 24x + 144

b = 144
b
I2.3 If c = log2 , find c.
9
144
c = log2 = log2 16 = 4
9
I2.4 If d = 12c 1422, find d.
d = 124 1422
= 1442 1422
= (144 + 142)(144 142)
= 2(286) = 572
Individual Event 3
sin 15 1
I3.1 If a = tan 2 15 , find a.
cos 75 sin 75
2
sin 15
a= sec 2 15 tan 2 15
sin 15
=1+1=2
I3.2 If the lines ax + 2y + 1 = 0 and 3x + by + 5 = 0 are perpendicular to each other, find b.
a 3
1
2 b
b = 3
c
I3.3 The three points (2, b), (4, b) and (5, ) are collinear. Find c.
2
c
The three points are (2, 3), (4, 3) and (5, ), so their slopes are equal.
2
3 3 2c 3

42 54
c
3=3
2
c = 12
1 1 1 1 1
I3.4 If : : 3 : 4 : 5 and : 9c : d, find d.
x y z x y yz
1 1 1
x:y:z= : :
3 4 5
20 15 12
= : :
60 60 60
= 20 : 15 : 12
x = 20k, y = 15k, z = 12k
1 1 1 1
: :
x y y z 20k 15k 15k 12k
= 27 : 35
= 108: 140 = 9c : d
d = 140
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In the figure, the area of PQRS is 80 cm2.
If the area of QRT is A cm2, find A.
QRT has the same base and same height as the parallelogram PQRS.
1
A = 80 = 40
2
8A
I4.2 If B = log 2 , find B.
5
8 40
B = log 2
5
= log2 64
= log2 26 = 6
1 1
I4.3 Given x = B. If C = x 3 3 , find C.
x x
1
x =6
x
1 1
x2 2
= ( x )2 2
x x
= 62 2 = 34
1
C = x3
x3
1 1
= x x 2 2 1
x x
= 6(34 1) = 198
I4.4 Let (p, q) qD + p. If (C, 2) 212, find D.
2D + C = 212
2D = 212 198 = 14
D=7
Individual Event 5
I5.1 Let p, q be the roots of the quadratic equation x2 3x 2 = 0 and a = p3 + q3. Find a.
p + q = 3, pq = 2
a = (p + q)(p2 pq + q2)
= 3[(p + q)2 3pq]
= 3[32 3(2)] = 45
I5.2 If AH a, CK 36, BK 12 and BH b, find b. A
ABH ~ CBK (equiangular)

b 45
(ratio of sides, ~s) K
12 36 P
b = 15
B C
H
I5.3 Find c. L

b 20
152 + 202 = 252 c
ML LN (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
M N
1 1 25
Area of MNL = 1520 = 25c
2 2
c = 12
I5.4 Let 2 x 23 2 x 1 c and d 2 x 23 2 x 1 . Find d.
Reference: 2014 HG1
cd 2 x 23 2 x 1 2 x 23 2 x 1
12d = (2x + 23) (2x 1) = 24
d=2
Sample Group Event Reference HKCEE Mathematics 1990 Paper 1 Q14

Consider the following groups of numbers:
(2)
(4, 6)
(8, 10, 12)
(14, 16, 18, 20)
(22, 24, 26, 28, 30)

SG.1 Find the last number of the 50th group.
2 = 21
6 = 2(1 + 2)
12 = 2(1 + 2 + 3)
20 = 2(1 + 2 + 3 + 4)
30 = 2(1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5)
The last number of the 50th group
= 2(1 + 2 + + 50)
= 2 50 1 50 = 2550
1
2
SG.2 Find the first number of the 50th group.
There are 50 numbers in the 50th group.
The first number of the 50th group = 2550 2(50 1) = 2452
SG.3 Find P if the sum of the numbers in the 50th group is 50P.
2452 + 2454 + + 2550 = 50P
50 2452 2550 50 P
1
2
P = 2501
SG.4 Find Q if the sum of the numbers in the 100th group is 100Q.
The last number in the 100th group = 2(1 + 2 + + 100) = 2 100 1 100 = 10100
1
2
9902 + 9904 + + 10100 = 100P
100 9902 10100 100 P

1
2
P = 10001
Group Event 6
As shown in the figure, ABC and XYZ are equilateral triangles and X
are ends of a right prism. P is the mid-point of BY and BP 3 cm,
XY 4 cm. Y Z
CP
G6.1 If a = , find a.
PX
P A
CP = 3 4 cm = 5 cm = PX (Pythagoras theorem)
2 2
B C
a=1
G6.2 If CX = b cm, find b.
CX = 6 2 4 2 cm = 52 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
b = 52
c
G6.3 If cosPCX = , find c.
5
52 2 13
cosPCX = =
5 5
c = 13
2 d
G6.4 If sinPCX = , find d.
5
12
sin2PCX = 1 cos2PCX =
25
2 3
sinPCX =
5
d=3
Group Event 7
Given that OABC is a parallelogram. B(4, b)
G7.1 Find a. A(a, 9)
a 0 = 4 12
a = 8
G7.2 Find b.
b1=90 C(12, 1)

b = 10
G7.3 Find the area of OABC. O(0, 0)
0 0
1 12 1
Area = 2 = 116
2 4 10
0 0
G7.4 Find tan .
OC = 145
5
OB = 116 2
BC = 12 42 1 102 = 145
1
2 2 2
145 116 145 1
cos =

2 145 116
=

5
tan = 2
Method 2
1 0 1
mOC =
12 0 12
10 0 5
mOB =
40 2
5
1
tan = 2 5 121 = 2
1 2 12
Group Event 8
G8.1 The area of an equilateral triangle of side A cm is 3 cm2. Find A.
1 2
A sin 60 3
2
A=2
A
G8.2 If 19 243 5 b , find b.
b = 19 35 5 = 171
G8.3 The roots of the equation x3 173x2 + 339x + 513 = 0 are 1, b and c. Find c.
1 + 171 + c = sum of roots = 173
c=3
G8.4 The base of a triangular pyramid is an equilateral triangle of side 2c cm.
If the height of the pyramid is 27 cm, and its volume is d cm3, find d.
d = 6 2 sin 60 27 = 27
1 1
3 2
Group Event 9
If the area of a regular hexagon ABCDEF is 54 3 cm2 and AB x cm, AC y 3 cm,
G9.1 find x.
The hexagon can be cut into 6 identical equilateral triangles
6 x 2 sin 60 54 3
1
2
x=6
G9.2 find y.
ABC = 120
AC2 = (x2 + x2 2x2 cos 120) cm2
1
= [62 + 62 2(6)2 ] cm2
2
= 362 cm2
y 3 =6 3
y=6
G9.3 - G9.4 (Reference: 1991 FG8.1-2)
Consider the following number pattern:
T1 = 2 T2 = 8 T3 = 18 T4 = 32
G9.3 Find T10.
8 2 = 6, 18 8 = 10, 32 18 = 14
T1 = 2, T2 = 2 + 6, T3 = 2 + 6 + 10, T4 = 2 + 6 + 10 +14
22 10 1 4 = 200
10
T10 =
2
G9.4 If Tn = 722, find n.
22 n 1 4 722
n
2
n2 = 361
n = 19
Group Event 10
The following shows the graph of y = ax2 + bx + c. y
G10.1 Find c.
x = 0, y = c = 3 3
G10.2 Find a.
1 x
y = a(x + )(x 3) 1 O 3
2
2
Sub. x = 0, y = 3
3
a= 3
2
a = 2
G10.3 Find b.
1 b
3 = sum of roots =
2 2
b=5
2
G10.4 If y = x + d is tangent to y = ax + bx + c, find d.
Sub. y = x + d into y = ax2 + bx + c
2x2 + 5x + 3 = x + d
2x2 4x + d 3 = 0
= (4)2 4(2)(d 3) = 0
4 2d + 6 = 0
d=5
1 4 2 2 3 488 4 17 5 4
90-91 6 6 7 72.8 8 243 9 8 10 50
Individual 11 4 12 6 13 17 14 13 15 73
16 338350 17 192 18 7 19 10 20 45
90-91 1 9 2 98 3 10 4 32767 5 174

Group 6 6 7 1601 8 41 9 25 10 110
Individual Events
I1 Find the value of log3 14 log3 12 + log3 486 log3 7.
log3 14 log3 12 + log3 486 log3 7
14 486
= log 3
12 7
= log 3 81 = 4
I2 A scientist found that the population of a bacteria culture doubled every hour. At 4:00 pm, he
found that the number of bacteria was 3.2108. If the number of bacteria in that culture at
noon on the same day was N107, find N.
N10724 = 3.2108
16N = 32
N=2
1 1
I3 If x 8 , find the value of x3 3 .
x x
2
1
x 64
x
1
x 2 2 62
x
1 1 1
x3 3 = x x 2 1 2
x x x
= 8(62 1) = 488
I4 If the equations 2x + 3y + a = 0 and bx 2y + 1 = 0 represent the same line, find the value of
6(a + b).
2 3 a

b 2 1
3 4
a = , b =
2 3
6(a + b) = 9 8 = 17
I5 A boy walks from home to school at a speed of 2 metres per second and runs back at x metres
2
per second. His average speed for the whole journey is 2 metres per second. Find x.
3
Let the distance between his home and the school be d m.
2d 2
2
d d 3

2 x
4x 8

x2 3
3x = 2x + 4
x=4
ax 2by
I6 The straight line = 2a+ b passes through a fixed point P. Find the x-coordinate of P.
3 5
x 2y
a 2 b 1
3 5
Put b = 0, a = 1, x = 6
I7 If the diameter of a sphere is increased by 20%, its volume will be increased by x %. Find x.
Let the radius be r.
When the diameter is increased by 20%, the radius is also increased by 20%
Percentage increase in volume
1.2r r 3
4 3 4
=3 3 100% = 72.8%
4 3
r
3
x = 72. 8
I8 If log7[log5(log3 x)] = 0, find x.
log5(log3 x) = 1
log3 x = 5
x = 35 = 243
7 8x A B
I9 If for all real numbers x where x 1 and x 2, find A + B.
(1 x)(2 x) 1 x 2 x
7 8x A(2 x) + B(1 x)
2A + B = 7 (1)
A + B = 8 (2)
(1) (2): A = 1
Put A = 1 into (2): B = 9
A+B=8
I10 The marked price of an article is p% above its cost price. At a sale, the shopkeeper sells the
article at 20% off the marked price. If he makes a profit of 20%, find p.
Let the cost be $x.
(1 + p%)x(1 20%) = (1 + 20%)x
1 + 0.01p = 1.5
p = 50
I11 If a < 0 and 22a+4 652a + 4 = 0, find a.
16(2a)2 65(2a) + 4 = 0
(162a 1)(2a 4) = 0
1
2a = or 4
16
a < 0 a = 4
I12 If one root of the equation (x2 11x 10) + k(x + 2) = 0 is zero, find the other root.
Put x = 0, 10 + 2k = 0
k=5
x2 6x = 0
The other root is 6.
I13 [x] denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to x . For example, [6] 6 , [8.9] 8, etc.

If 4 1 4 2 4 n = n + 2, find n. (Reference 1989 HI6)
1= 1, 2 = 1, , 15 = 1; 16 = 2, , 80 = 2; 81= 3
4 4 4 4 4 4
If n 15, 1 2 n = n
4 4 4
If 16 n 80, 1 2 n = 15 + 2(n 15) = 2n 15

4 4 4
2n 15 = n + 2
n = 17
I14 a, b are two different real numbers such that a2 = 6a + 8 and b2 = 6b + 8. Find the value of
2 2
4 4
.
a b
Reference: 1989 HG1
a and b are the roots of x2 = 6x + 8; i.e. x2 6x 8 = 0
a + b = 6; ab = 8
2 2
4 4 1 1
= 16 2 2
a b a b
=
16 a b 2ab
2

ab 2
16 6 2 2 8
= = 13

82
I15 312 1 is divisible by an integer which is greater than 70 and smaller than 80. Find the integer.
312 1 = (36 + 1)(36 1) = (32 + 1)(34 32 + 1)(32 1)(34 + 32 + 1)
= 1073891
The integer is 73.
I16 It is known that

23 13 3 12 3 1 1
33 23 3 22 3 2 1
43 33 3 32 3 3 1

1013 1003 3 1002 3 100 1
Find the value of 12 22 32 1002 .
Add up these 100 equations: 1013 1 = 3(12 + 22 + 1002) +
3
1 100 100 + 100
2
1030301 1 = 3(12 + 22 + 1002) + 15150 + 100
12 + 22 + 1002 = 338350
I17 In figure 1, PQ PR 8 cm and QPR 120 . A, D are P

the mid-points of PQ, PR respectively. If ABCD is a
rectangle of area x cm2 , find x. A D
Fold PAD along AD, QAB along AB, RCD along DC.
1 Q R
It is easy to show the area of ABCD = area of PQR B C
2
(Figure 1)
1 1
= 88sin 120 = 8 3 = 192 x = 192
2 2
I18 In figure 2, XA 10 cm, AB 2 cm, XD 8 cm and

B
DC x cm. Find the value of x. A
XAD = XCB (ext. , cyclic quad.)
X
AXD = CXB (common)
D
XDA = XBC (ext. , cyclic quad.)
XAD ~ XCB (equiangular) C
XA : XD = XC : XB (ratio of sides, ~) (Figure 2)
10(10 + 2) = 8(8 + x)
x=7
I19 In figure 3, AB AC 6 cm and BC 9.6 cm. If the A
diameter of the circumcircle of ABC is x cm, find x.
9.6 2
cos B = = 0.8
6
B C
sin B = 0.6
(Figure 3)
b
By sine rule, = 2R
sin B A 6 cm
6 cm
6
2R = = 10
0.6 B C
4.8 cm 4.8 cm
E
Method 2 Let the perpendicular bisector of BC intersects O
the circumscribed circle at A and D. E is the mid point of
BC, O is the centre of the circle.
AE = 3.6 cm (Pythagoras Theorem) D
AEED = BEEC (intersecting chords theorem)
ED = 6.4 cm
AD = 10 cm
x = 10
I20 In figure 4, ABC = 90, AK BC and E, F are the mid-points of A
AC, KB respectively. If AFE = x, find x.
Let AE = y = EC, AK = t = BC, KF = n = FB. A
Draw EG // CB, cutting AB at G.
AG = GB (intercept theorem) E
t
y
GB = t 2n
1 K
2 K F
GF = t 2n n = t
1 1 G E
n x B C
2 2
1 F y (Figure 4)
GE = t (mid point theorem) n
2
EGF = 90 (int. s, EG // CB)
EGF is a right-angled isosceles triangle B t C
x = 45
Group Events
G1 Find the unit digit of 13577890. (Reference 1990 HI11)
71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401
13577890 (74)197272 9 mod 10
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 x
G2 If , find x.
2 6 12 20 30 42 2450 100
1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 6 12 20 30 42 2450
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
=
1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 49 50
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= 1
2 2 3 3 4 49 50
1 49 98
= 1 = =
50 50 100
x = 98
a b c
G3 , and are three proper fractions in their simplest form, where a, b and c are positive
3 4 6
integers. If c is added to the numerator of each fraction, then the sum of the fractions formed
will be equal to 6. Find the value of a + b + c.
a b c
, and are three proper fractions in their simplest form
3 4 6
a = 1 or 2, b = 1 or 3, c = 1 or 5 (1)
ac bc cc
6
3 4 6
4(a + c) + 3(b + c) + 2(2c) = 72
4a + 3b + 11c = 72 (2)
a = 2, b = 3, c = 5 is a solution
a + b + c = 10
G4 Study the Pascals triangle shown below: Find the sum of all the numbers from Row 1
Row 1 1 to Row 15.
Row 2 1 1
Row 3 1 2 1
Row 4 1 3 3 1
Row 5 1 4 6 4 1
Row 6 1 5 10 10 5 1

0
Sum of the first row = 2
Sum of the second row = 21
Sum of the third row = 22
...........................................
Sum of the fifteen row = 214
215 1
Sum of all numbers from row 1 to row 15 = 20 + 21 + + 214 = = 32767
2 1
G5 In the multiplication 5568, each of the above boxes represents

an integer from 1 to 9. If the integers for the nine boxes above are all different, find the
number represented by .
5568 = 26329 = 17432 = 9658
= 174
G6 Find the remainder when 19971990 1991 is divided by 1996.
19971990 1991 = (1996 + 1)1990 1991
= 1996m + 1 1991 (Binomial theorem, m is an integer)
= 1996(m 1) + 6
The remainder is 6.
1
G7 Find the least positive integral value of n such that n n 1 .
80
1
n n 1
80
n n 1 n n 1

1
n n 1 80
.
1 1

n n 1 80
80 < n n 1 < 2 n
40 < n
1600 < n
The least positive integral value of n = 1601.
G8 One of the solutions of the equation 32 x 59 y 3259 in positive integers is given by
(x, y) (100, 1). It is known that there is exactly one more pair of positive integers (a, b)
(a 100 and b 1) such that 32a 59b 3259 . Find a. (Reference: 1989 HG4)
32 y y1
The line has a slope of = 2
59 x2 x1
Given that (100, 1) is a solution.
32 y 1
= 2
59 x2 100
Let y2 1 = 32t; x2 100 = 59t, where t is an integer.
y2 = 1 32t, x2 = 100 + 59t
For positive integral solution of (x2, y2), 1 32t > 0 and 100 + 59t > 0
100 1
t
59 32
t is an integer t = 0 or 1
When t = 1, x2 = 41, y2 = 33
Another positive integral solution is (41, 33)
a = 41
G9 In figure 1, XY is a diameter of a cylindrical glass, 48 cm X Y

in base circumference. On the outside is an ant at A, 2 cm
2 cm
below X and on the inside is a small drop of honey at H, 5 cm
A
5 cm below Y. If the length of the shortest path for the ant
H
to reach the drop of honey is x cm, find x. (Neglect the
thickness of the glass.)
Reference: 1983 FG8.1, 1993 HI1, 1996 HG9
Cut the cylinder along a plane through XY perpendicular
to the base. Unfold the curved surface of the A 24 cm C
2 cm
semi-cylinder as a rectangle as shown. X Y
P 5 cm
The length of semi-circular arc of the rim XY = 24 cm
When the ant climbs over the rim somewhere at P, and H
then to H, then AX = 2 cm, YH = 5 cm.

For the shortest distance from A to H, A, P, H must be
collinear. Let C be the foot of perpendicular drawn from A
onto HY produced. Then AXYC is a rectangle.
AC = 24 cm, CH = (2 + 5)cm = 7 cm
x2 = 242 + 72 (Pythagoras theorem)
x = 25
G10 In figure 2, two chords AOB, COD cut at O. If the
C B
tangents at A and C meet at X, the tangents at B and D
meet at Y and AXC = 130, AOD = 120, BYD = k, O
find k. A
D
XC = XA (tangent from ext. point)
XAC is an isosceles triangle
XAC = XCA (base s isosceles )
180 130 (Figure 2)
= = 25 (s sum of XAC)
2
ADC = XAC = 25 ( in alt. segment)
DAO = 180 120 25 = 35 (s sum of AOD)
BDY = DBY = 35 ( in alt. segment)
BYD = 180 35 35 = 110 (s sum of BDY)
k = 110
Individual Events
SI a 50 I1 a 15 I2 a 124 I3 a 7 I4 a 11 I5 a 1080
b 10 b 3 b 50 b 125 b 5 n 21
c 5 c 121 n 12 c 40 *c 9 x 25
see the remark
d 2 d 123 d 10 d 50 d 5 K 6
Group Events
Area of
SG a 64 G6 M 4 G7 n 5 G8 H5 61 G9 BDF 30 G10 A 3
Area of
b 7 N 5 c 2 a 3 FDE
75 B 1
Area of
h 30 z 4 x 60 t 12 ABC
28 C 5
k 150 r 70 y 20 m 7 x 44 D 7
SI.1 If a = 1 + 2 3 + 4 5 + 6 + 100, find a.
a = (1 + 2 3 + 4) + (5 + 6 7 + 8) + + (97 + 98 99 + 100)
= 2 + 2 + + 2 (25 terms) = 50
SI.2 The sum of the first b positive odd numbers is 2a. Find b.
1 + 3 + + (2b 1) = 2a = 100
b
2 2b 1 100
2
b2 = 100
b = 10
SI.3 A bag contains b white balls and 3 black balls. Two balls are drawn from the bag at random.
c
If the probability of getting 2 balls of different colours is , find c.
13
The bag contains 10 white balls and 3 black balls.
10 3 5 c
P(2 different colours) = 2 = =
13 12 13 13
c=5
SI.4 If the lines cx + 10y = 4 and dx y = 5 are perpendicular to each other, find d.
5 d
1
10 1
d=2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 In the figure, ABC is an equilateral triangle and BCDE is a C D
square. If ADC = a, find a. a
ACD = (60 + 90) = 150

A
AC = CD
CAD = a (base, s isos. )
B E
a + a + 150 = 180 (s sum of )
a = 15
I1.2 If rb = 15 and br4 = 125a, where r is an integer, find b.
brr3 = 15r3 = 12515
r3 = 125
r=5
rb = 15
b=3
I1.3 If the positive root of the equation bx2 252x 13431 = 0 is c, find c.
3x2 252x 13431 = 0
x2 84x 4477 = 0, 4477 = 111137 and 84 = 121 + 37
(x 121)(x + 37) = 0
x = c = 121
y 1
I1.4 Given x # y = x y . If d = 10 # c, find d.
x
d = 10 # c
121 1
= 10 121
10
= 12 + 111 = 123
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If a2 1 = 123125 and a > 0, find a.
Reference: 1983 FI10.1, 1984 FSG.2
a2 1 = (124 1) (124 + 1)
= 1242 1
a = 124
I2.2 If the remainder of x3 16x2 9x + a when divided by x 2 is b, find b.
b = 23 16(2)2 9(2) + 124 = 50
I2.3 If an n-sided polygon has (b + 4) diagonals, find n.
C 2n n = 50 + 4
n(n 3) = 108
n2 3n 108 = 0
(n 12)(n + 9) = 0
n = 12
I2.4 If the points (3, n), (5, 1) and (7, d) are collinear, find d.
12 1 d 1

35 7 5
d 1 = 11
d = 10
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If the 6-digit number 168a26 is divisible by 3, find the greatest possible value of a.
1 + 6 + 8 + a + 2 + 6 = 3k, where k is an integer.
The greatest possible value of a = 7
I3.2 A cube with edge a cm long is painted red on all faces. It is then cut into cubes with edge
1 cm long. If the number of cubes with all the faces not painted is b, find b.
Reference: 1994 HG2
The number of cubes with all the faces not painted is b = (7 1 1)3 = 125
I3.3 If (x 85)(x c) x2 bx + 85c, find c.
(x 85)(x c) x2 (85 + c)x + 85c
85 + c = b = 125
c = 40
I3.4 In the figure, AB is a diameter of the circle. Find d. D
Label the vertices as shown. d
CAB = d ( in the same segment)

A B
c + d = 90 ( in semi-circle) c
d = 50
C
Individual Event 4
1 1
I4.1 Given x = 3. If a = x2 + 2 , find a.
x x
1
a = (x )2 + 2
x
= 9 + 2 = 11
I4.2 If f (x) = log2 x and f (a + 21) = b, find b.
b = f (11 + 21) = f (32)
= log2 32 = log2 25 = 5
8b 1 1
I4.3 If cos = , where is an acute angle, and c = , find c.
41 sin tan
40
cos =
41
9 9
sin = , tan =
41 40
41 40
c= =9
9 9
Remark: Original question was ....... where is a positive acute angle ..........
Acute angle must be positive, the words "a positive" is replaced by "an".
d
I4.4 Two dice are tossed. If the probability of getting a sum of 7 or c is , find d.
18
P(sum = 7 or 9) = P(7) + P(9)
6 4 5
= =
36 36 18
d=5
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In Figure 1, if the sum of the interior angles is a,
find a.
a = 180(8 2) (s sum of polygon)
a = 1080
I5.2 If the nth term of the arithmetic progression 80, 130, 180, 230, 280, is a, find n.
First term = 80, common difference = 50
80 + (n 1)50 = 1080
n = 21
I5.3 In Figure 2, AP : PB 2 : 1.
C
If AC 33 cm, BD n cm, PQ x cm, find x. Q
D
From B, draw a line segment FGB // CQD, cutting AC, PQ at F
and G respectively.
B
CDBF, BDQG are parallelograms (2 pairs of // lines) P
A
CF = QG = DB = 21 cm (opp. sides //-gram)
AF = (33 21)cm = 12 cm
BPG ~ BAF (equiangular)
PG PB
(ratio of sides, ~s) C
AF AP PB Q D
PG 1

12 cm 3 F G
PG = 4 cm A P B
PQ = PG + GQ = (4 + 21) cm = 25 cm
x = 25
sin 65 tan 2 60
I5.4 If K = , find K.
tan 30 cos 30 cos x
sin 65 tan 2 60
K=
tan 30 cos 30 cos 25
=

sin 65 3
2
=6
1
3
2
3
sin 65
Sample Group Event

SG.1 The height of an equilateral triangle is 8 3 cm and the area of the
triangle is a 3 cm2. Find a.
Let the length of a side be x cm. x
In the figure, x sin 60 = 8 3 8 3
x = 16 60
1
Area = x 2 sin 60
2
1 3
= 16 2 =a 3
2 2
a = 64
n 10 10
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 b
SG.2 Given that , and . Find b.
x 1 x 1 2 3 n x4 x 2 x4 x 1 18
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1 1 b
= =
2 9 18
b=7
SG.3-SG.4 A boy tries to find the area of a parallelogram by multiplying together the lengths of two
adjacent sides. His answer is double the correct answer. If the acute angle and the obtuse
angle of the figure are h and k respectively,
Reference: 1989 HI7
SG.3 find h.
Let the two adjacent sides be x and y.
xy = 2xy sin h
1
sin h =
2
h = 30
SG.4 find k.
k = 180 30 = 150 (int. s, // lines)
Group Event 6
G6.1-6.2 A 2-digit number x has M as the units digit and N as the tens digit. Another 2-digit number
y has N as the units digit and M as the tens digit. If x > y and their sum is equal to eleven
times their differences,
G6.1 find M. G6.2 find N.
x = 10N + M, y = 10M + N
x>yN>M>0
x + y = 11(x y)
10N + M + 10M + N = 11(10N + M 10M N)
M + N = 9N 9M
10M = 8N
5M = 4N
M is a multiple of 4 and N is a multiple of 5.
N = 5, M = 4
G6.3 The sum of two numbers is 20 and their product is 5.
If the sum of their reciprocals is z, find z.
Let the 2 numbers be x and y.
x + y = 20 and xy = 5
1 1 x y
z= = =4
x y xy
G6.4 In the figure, the average of p and q is 121 + z. Find r.
The exterior angle of r is 180 r (adj. s on st. line)
p + q + (180 r) = 360 (sum of ext. s of polygon) r
p + q r = 180 (1) q
pq
= 121 + z = 125
2
p + q = 250 (2) p
Sub. (2) into (1): 250 r = 180
r = 70
Group Event 7
G7.1 5 printing machines can print 5 books in 5 days.
If n printing machines are required in order to have 100 books printed in 100 days, find n.
100 printing machines can print 100 books in 5 days.
5 printing machines can print 100 books in 100 days
n=5
G7.2 If the equation x2 + 2x + c = 0 has no real root and c is an integer less than 3, find c.
= 22 4c < 0
c > 1 and c is an integer less than 3
c=2
G7.3-G7.4 Chicken eggs cost $0.50 each, duck eggs cost $0.60 each and goose eggs cost $0.90
each. A man sold x chicken eggs, y duck eggs, z goose eggs and received $60. If x, y, z
are all positive numbers with x + y + z = 100 and two of the values x, y, z are equal,
G7.3 find x. G7.4 find y.
0.5x + 0.6y + 0.9z = 60
5x + 6y + 9z = 600 (1)
x + y + z = 100 (2)
If x = z, then 14x + 6y = 600
7x + 3y = 300 (3) and 2x + y = 100 (4)
(3) 3(4): x = 0 (rejected)
If x = y, then 11x + 9z = 600 (5) and 2x + z = 100 (6)
9(6) (5): 7x = 300, x is not an integer, rejected.
(1) 5(2): y + 4z = 100 (7)
If y = z, then y = z = 20, x = 60
Group Event 8
Reference: 1992 FG9.3-4
G8.1-G8.2 Consider the following hexagonal numbers :
H1 = 1 H2 = 7 H3 = 19
G8.1 Find H5.
H2 H1 = 61, H3 H2 = 12 = 62
H4 H3 = 18 = 63
H4 = 19 + 18 = 37
H5 H4 = 64 = 24
H5 = 24 + 37 = 61
G8.2 If Hn = an2 + bn + c, where n is any positive integer, find a.
H1 = a + b + c = 1 (1)
H2 = 4a + 2b + c = 7 (2)
H3 = 9a + 3b + c = 19 (3)
(2) (1): 3a + b = 6 (4)
(3) (2): 5a + b = 12 (5)
(5) (4): 2a = 6
a=3
G8.3 If p : q 2 : 3, q : r 4 : 5 and p : q : r 8 : t : 15 , find t.
p : q : r = 8 : 12 : 15
t = 12
1 1 1 1
G8.4 If : = 4 : 3 and : 3 : m, find m.
x y x y x
1 1
x:y= : =3:4
4 3
1 1 1 1
: : =3:7
x y x 3 4 3
m=7
Group Event 9
G9.1-G9.3 A
In the figure, BC is parallel to DE.
If AB : BC : BF : CF : FE 5 : 4 : 2 : 3 : 5
B C
and the area of BCF is 12, find
G9.1 the area of BDF, F
G9.2 the area of FDE,
G9.3 the area of ABC. D E
G9.1 BCF ~ EDF (equiangular)
DF : EF : DE = CE : FB : BC (ratio of sides, ~s)
5 5
DF = 3 = 7.5, DE = 4 = 10
2 2
7 .5
The area of BDF = 12 = 30
3
5
G9.2 The area of FDE = 30 = 75
2
5
G9.3 The area of CEF = 12 = 30
2
The area of BCED = 12 + 30 + 30 + 75 = 147
ABC ~ ADE (equiangular)
Area of ABC : area of ADE = BC2 : DE2 = 42 : 102 = 4 : 25
Let the area of ABC be y
y : (y + 147) = 4 : 25
4y + 588 = 25y
21y = 588
y = Area of ABC = 28
G9.4 If the volume of a sphere is increased by 72.8%, then the surface area of the sphere is
increased by x%. Find x.
Let the original radius of the sphere be r and the new radius be R
R = r 1 72.8%
4 3 4 3
3 3
3
R 3
= 1.728 = 1.2

r
R = 1.2r
x = 20
Group Event 10
In the attached division 1 D E
G10.1 find A, 2 1 5 A 7 B 9 C
G10.2 find B, F G H
G10.3 find C, J 5 K 9
G10.4 find D. L 5 M 5
N 4 P
FGH = 215 Q R S
D5 1 D E
D = 5, 7, 9 2 1 5 A 7 B 9 C
2155 = 1055 L5M 5 (rejected) 2 1 5
2157 = 1505 = L5M 5 (accepted) J 5 K 9
2159 = 1935 L5M 5 (rejected) L 5 M 5
D = 7, L = 1, M = 0 N 4 P
Q R S
J = 1, A = 3 1 7 E
E = 2, 3 or 4 2 1 5 A 7 B 9 C
2 1 5
N 4 P = QRS
J 5 K 9
2152 = 430 N 4 P (rejected) 1 5 0 5
2153 = 645 = N 4 P (accepted) N 4 P
2154 = 860 N 4 P (rejected) Q R S
E=3
215173 = 37195 1 7 3
A = 3, B = 1, C = 5, D = 7 2 1 5 3 7 1 9 5
2 1 5
1 5 6 9
1 5 0 5
6 4 5
6 4 5
1 5 2 2 3 7 4 6 5 (2, 4)
6 4 7 120 8 7 9 100 10 109
89-90 11 9 12 0 13 2519 14 2 15 10 days
Individual
9
16 5 17 2 13 18 1:2 19 20 58.5
20
1 275 2 73 3 2 4 0 5 1783
89-90
125 5
Group 6 26 7 = 15 8 4:1 9 7 10 2
8 8
Individual Events
1 1 1 1 1
I1 Find the value of + + .
3 8 8 7 7 6 6 5 5 2
1 1 1 1 1
+ +
3 8 8 7 7 6 6 5 5 2
=3+ 8 ( 8+ 7 + ) ( ) (
7+ 6 6+ 5 + ) ( 5+2 )
=5
I2 If b < 0 and 22b+4 202b + 4 = 0, find b.
Let y = 2b, then y2 = 22b, the equation becomes 16y2 20y + 4 = 0
4y2 5y + 1 = 0
(4y 1)(y 1) = 0
1
y = 2b = or y = 1
4
b = 2 or 0
Q b < 0 b = 2 only
I3 If f (a) = a 2 and F(a, b) = a + b2, find F(3, f (4)).
Reference: 1985 FI3.3, 2013 FI3.2, 2015 FI4.3
f (4) = 4 2 = 2
F(3, f (4)) = F(3, 2) = 3 + 22 = 7
I4 For positive integers a and b, define a#b = ab + ba. If 2#w = 100, find the value of w.
2w + w2 = 100 for positive integer w.
By trail and error, 64 + 36 = 100
w = 6.
I5 a and b are constants. The straight line 2ax + 3by = 4a + 12b passes through a fixed point P
whose coordinates do not depend on a and b. Find the coordinates of P.
2ax + 3by = 4a + 12b 2a(x 2) + 3b(y 4) = 0
Put b = 0 x = 2,
Put a = 0 y = 4
P(2, 4)
I6 The sines of the angles of a triangle are in the ratio 3 : 4 : 5. If A is the smallest interior angle
x
of the triangle and cos A = , find the value of x.
5
By Sine rule, a : b : c = sin A : sin B : sin C = 3 : 4 : 5
Let a = 3k, b = 4k, c = 5k.
a2 + b2 = (3k)2 + (4k)2 = (5k)2 = c2
C = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
b 4
cos A = =
c 5
x=4
I7 If x + y = 9, y + z = 11 and z + x = 10, find the value of xyz.
Reference: 1986 FG10.1, 1989 HI15
(1) + (2) (3): 2y = 10 y = 5
(1) + (3) (2): 2x = 8 x = 4
(2) + (3) (1): 2z = 12 z = 6
xyz = 120
I8 If , are the roots of the equation 2x2 + 4x 3 = 0 and 2, 2 are the roots of the equation
x2 + px + q = 0, find the value of p.
+ = 2
3
=
2
p = (2 + 2) = ( + )2 + 2
= (2)2 3 = 7
x3
I9 If x log10 x = and x > 10, find the value of x.
100
Take log on both sides, log xlog x = 3 log x log 100
(log x)2 3 log x + 2 = 0
(log x 1)(log x 2) = 0
log x = 1 or log x = 2
x = 10 or 100
Q x > 10 x = 100 only
I10 Given that a0 = 1, a1 = 3 and a n2 an1an+1 = (1)n for positive integers n. Find a4.
Put n = 1, a12 a0 a 2 = (1)1 32 a2 = 1 a2 = 10
Put n = 2, a 22 a1a3 = (1) 2 102 3a3 = 1 a3 = 33
Put n = 3, a32 a 2 a 4 = (1) 3 332 10a4 = 1 a4 = 109
Reference 1991 HG1
71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401
2137754 (74)18872 9 mod 10
2
1 1
I12 If r + = 3 , find r 3 + 3 .
r r
1
r+ = 3
r
2
1 1
r + 2 =r + 2 = 3 2 = 1
2
r r
1 1 1
r 3 + 3 = r + r 2 1 + 2
r r r
= 3 (1 1) = 0
I13 A positive integer N, when divided by 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2, leaves remainders 9, 8, 7, 6,
5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 respectively. Find the least value of N.
Reference: 1985 FG7.2, 2013FG4.3
N + 1 is divisible by 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2.
The L.C.M. of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 is 2520.
1 cos 45 sin 70 cos 60 tan 40
I14 If = , find the value of A.
A cos 340 sin 135 tan 220
1 cos 45 cos 20 cos 60 tan 40
=
A cos 20 cos 45 tan 40
1
= cos 60 =
2
A=2
I15 If 10 men can make 20 tables in 5 days, how many days are required to make 60 tables by 15
men?
20 2
1 man can make = table in 1 day.
10 5 5
2
15 men can make 15 = 6 tables in one day.
5
They can make 60 tables in 10 days
I16 In figure 1, the exterior angles of the triangle are in the ratio
x : y : z = 4 : 5 : 6 and the interior angles are in the ratio z'
z
x : y : z = a : b : 3. Find the value of b.
Let x = 4k, y = 5k, z = 6k
y'
4k + 5k + 6k = 360 (sum of ext. of polygon) x y
15k = 360 x'
k = 24 (Figure 1)
x = 96, y = 120, z = 144
x = 84, y = 60, z = 36 (adj. s on st. line)
x:y:z=7:5:3
b=5
I17 In ABC, C = 90 and D, E are the mid-points of BC and A

CA respectively. If AD = 7 and BE = 4, find the length of
AB. (See figure 2.)
Let BD = x = DC, AE = y = EC E
x2 + (2y)2 = 72 (1)
(2x)2 + y2 = 42 (2)
4(1) (2): 15y2 = 180 y2 = 12 B D C
4(2) (1): 15x2 = 15 x2 = 1 (Figure 2)
AB2 = (2x)2 + (2y)2 = 4 + 48
AB = 52 = 2 13
I18 Figure 3 shows 3 semi-circles of diameters a, 2a and 3a
respectively. Find the ratio of the area of the shaded part to
that of the unshaded part.
a 3
2
Area of the shaded part = a 2 = a 2

2 2 2 8
a a a
3a 3 6
2
Area of the unshaded part = a 2 = a 2 (Figure 3)

2 2 8 8
The ratio = 3 : 6 = 1 : 2
1 1 1 1
I19 Find the value of + + +L+ .
2 3 3 4 4 5 19 20
1 1 1 1
+ + +L+
2 3 3 4 4 5 19 20
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= + + +L+
2 3 3 4 4 5 19 20
1 1 9
= =
2 20 20
I20 In figure 4, C = 90, AD = DB and DE is perpendicular C
to AB. If AB = 20 and AC = 12, find the area of the E
quadrilateral ADEC.
BD = 10, BC = 16 (Pythagoras theorem)
BDE ~ BCA (equiangular) A B
D
BD : DE : BE = 16 : 12 : 20 (ratio of sides, ~s) (Figure 4)
DE =7.5, BE = 12.5
CE = 16 12.5 = 3.5
1 1
SADEC = 10 7.5 + 12 3.5 = 58.5
2 2
Method 2
BDE ~ BCA (equiangular)
2 2
BD 10 1
SBDE = S ABC = 12 16 = 37.5
BC 16 2
1
SADEC = 12 16 37.5 = 58.5
2
Group Events
1 1 1 1 1 1
G1 If + = 5 and 2 + 2 = 13 , find the value of 5 + 5 .
a b a b a b
2
(1)2 (2): = 12
ab
1
ab = (4)
6
From (1): (a + b )
1
= 5 (5)
ab
Sub. (4) into (5): 6(a + b) = 5
5
a+b= (6)
6
From (4) and (6), a and b are roots of 6t2 5t + 1 = 0
(2t 1)(3t 1) = 0
1 1
t= or
2 3
1 1
5
+ 5 = 25 + 35
a b
= 32 + 243 = 275
G2 There are N pupils in a class.
When they are divided into groups of 4, 1 pupil is left behind.
When they are divided into groups of 5, 3 pupils are left behind.
Find the least value of N.
Reference: 1992 HG4
N = 4p + 1 (1), p is an integer
N = 5q + 3 (2), q is an integer
N = 7r + 3 (3), r is an integer
(3) (2): 7r = 5q
r = 5k, q = 7k, where k is an integer
N = 35k + 3 = 4p + 1
4p 35k = 2
By trial and error,
p = 18, k = 2 is a solution
N = 73
G3 The coordinates of A, B, C and D are (10, 1), (1, 7), (2, 1) and (1, 3) respectively. AB and CD
AP
meet at P. Find the value of .
PB
Reference: 1989 HG5
y 1 1 7
Equation of AB: =
x 10 10 1
2x + 3y 23 = 0 (1)
y 1 3 1
Equation of CD: =
x + 2 1+ 2
2x 3y + 7 = 0 (2)
(1) + (2): 4x 16 = 0
x=4
(1) (2): 6y 30 = 0
y=5
AP
Let =r
PB
10 + r
4=
1+ r
4 + 4r = 10 + r
r=2
G4 Find the remainder when 21989 + 1 is divided by 3.
21989 + 1 = (3 1)1989 + 1 = 3m 1 + 1, binomial theorem, m is an integer.
The remainder is 0.
Method 2
21 + 1 = 3 0 mod 3, 22 + 1 = 5 2 mod 3, 23 + 1 0 mod 3, 24 + 1 2 mod 3
The pattern of the remainder repeats for every multiples of 2.
21989 + 1 21 + 1 0 mod 3
the remainder = 0
G5 Euler was born and died between 1700 A.D. and 1800 A.D. He was n + 9 years old in n3 A.D.
and died at the age of 76. Find the year in which Euler died.
Suppose he was born in x years after 1700 A.D.
1700 + x + n + 9 1 = n3 (1)
113 = 1331, 123 = 1728, 133 > 1800
n = 12, x = 1728 1700 12 9 + 1 = 8
1700 + x + 76 1 = 1783
He was died in A.D. 1783.
G6 Let N! denotes the product of the first N natural numbers, i.e. N! = 123N.
If k is a positive integer such that 30! = 2k an odd integer, find k.
Reference: 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
2, 4, 6, 8, , 30 each has at least one factor of 2. Subtotal = 15
4, 8, , 28 each has at least 2 factors of 2. Subtotal = 7
8, 16, 24 each has at least 3 factors of 2. Subtotal = 3
16 has 4 factors of 2. Subtotal = 1
Total number of factors of 2 = 15 + 7 + 3 + 1 = 26
9 y
G7 The graph of the parabola y = x 2 4 x cuts the
4 9
y = x2 4x
x-axis at A and B (figure 1). If C is the vertex of the 4
parabola, find the area of ABC.
Let the roots be , , where > .
A
AB = = ( + )2 4 B O
x
9
= 42 + 4 =5
4 C
9
4 ( 4 )
2
4ac b 2
=
4 25
Minimum = =
4a 4 4 (Figure 1)
1 25 125
Area of ABC = 5 =
2 4 8
G8 In figure 2, FE // BC and ED // AB. If AF : FB = 1 : 4 , find
A
the ratio of area of EDC : area of DEF.
Reference: 1989 HI17 F E
BDEF is a parallelogram formed by 2 pairs of parallel lines
DEF FBD (A.S.A.)
Let SDEF = x = SFBD (where S stands for the area) B D C
AEF ~ ACB (Q FE // BC, equiangular)
2
S AEF 1 1 (Figure 2)
= = (1)
S ACB 1 + 4 25
AE : EC = AF : FB = 1 : 4 (theorem of equal ratio)
Q DE // AB
AE : EC = BD : DC = 1 : 4 (theorem of equal ratio)
CDE ~ CBA (Q DE // BA, equiangular)
2
S CDE 4 16
= = (2)
S CBA 1 + 4 25
Compare (1) and (2) SAEF = k, SCDE = 16k, SABC = 25k
k + 16k + x + x = 25k
x = 4k
area of DEF : area of ABC = 16 : 4 = 4 : 1
G9 In the attached multiplication (figure 3), the letters O, L, Y, M, P, I, A O L Y M P I A D

and D represent different integers ranging from 1 to 9. Find the integer D
represented by A. OOOO O OOOO
12 = 1, 22 = 4, 32 = 9, 42 = 16, 52 = 25, 62 = 36, 72 = 49, 82 = 64, 92 = 81
Possible (D,O) = (2,4), (3,9), (4,6), (7,9), (8,4), (9,1)
When D = 2, O = 4, (OLYMPIAD) = 4444444442 = 222222222 rejected
When D = 4, O = 6, (OLYMPIAD) = 6666666664 = 166666666.5 rejected
When D = 9, O = 1, (OLYMPIAD) = 1111111119 = 12345679
A= 7
G10 Three circles, with centres A, B and C respectively, touch one P
another as shown in figure 4. If A, B and C are collinear and PQ
is a common tangent to the two smaller circles, where PQ = 4,
find the area of the shaded part in terms of .
B A C
Let the radii of the 3 circles with centres A, B and C be a, b, c.
2b + 2c = 2a a = b + c (1)
By intersecting chords theorem, 2c2b = 22
bc = 1 (2)
Shaded area = a2 b2 c2 Q
= [a2 (b2 + c2)] (Figure 4)
= [a2 (b + c)2 + 2bc]
= (a2 a2 + 2) by (1) and (2)
= 2
Individual Events
SI h 4 I1 a 5 I2 p 3 I3 a 1000 I4 a 5 I5 a 17
k 32 b 4 q 36 b 8 b 12 b 5
p 3 c 10 k 12 c 16 c 4 c 23
q 16 d 34 m 150 d 1 d 12 d 9
Group Events
SG a 2 G6 a 150 G7 C 47 G8 A 2 G9 S 1000 G10 A 1584
b 3 b 10 K 2 B 3 K 98 k 14
p 60 k 37.5 A 1 C 7 t 20 x 160
q 136 d 6 B 5 k 9 d 5 n 15
h
SI.1 Given that 3x2 4x + = 0 has equal roots, find h.
3
h
= (4)2 4(3) =0
3
h=4
SI.2 If the height of a cylinder is doubled and the new radius is h times the original, then the new
volume is k times the original. Find k.
Let the old height be x, old radius be r, then the old volume is r2x.
The new height is 2x, the new radius is 4r,
then the new volume is (4r)2(2x) = 32r2x
k = 32
SI.3 If log10 210 + log10k log1056 + log1040 log10120 + log1025 = p, find p.
210 32 40 25
p = log10
56 120
= log10 1000 = 3
p cos A q
SI.4 If sin A = and = , find q.
5 tan A 15
3
sin A =
5
cos A q
=
tan A 15
cos 2 A q
=
sin A 15
1 sin 2 A 1 ( 53 ) 16 q
2
= 3
= =
sin A 5 15 15
q = 16
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Find a if 2t + 1 is a factor of 4t2 + 12t + a.
Let f(t) = 4t2 + 12t + a
2
1 1 1
f = 4 + 12 + a = 0
2 2 2
a=5
I1.2 K denotes the nonnegative square root of K, where K 0. If b is the root of the equation
a x = x 3, find b.
( )
2
5 x = (x 3)2
5 x = x2 6x + 9
x2 5x + 4 = 0
x = 1 or 4
When x = 1, LHS = 2 1 = RHS
When x = 4, LHS = 1 = RHS.
x=b=4
20
I1.3 If c is the greatest value of , find c.
b + 2 cos
20 20 10
= =
b + 2 cos 4 + 2 cos 2 + cos
10
c = the greatest value = = 10
2 1
I1.4 A man drives a car at 3c km/h for 3 hours and then 4c km/h for 2 hours. If his average speed
for the whole journey is d km/h, find d.
Total distance travelled = (303 + 402) km = 170 km
170
d= = 34
3+ 2
Individual Event 2
1
I2.1 If 0 < 360, the equation in : 3 cos + = 4 has p roots. Find p.
cos
3 cos2 + 1 = 4 cos
3 cos2 4 cos + 1 = 0
1
cos = or 1
3
p=3
1 1
I2.2 If x = p and x 3 3 = q , find q.
x x
2
1 1
x =3; x =9
x x
1
x 2 + 2 = 11
x
1
q = x3 3
x
1 1
= x x 2 + 1 + 2
x x
= 3(11 + 1) = 36
I2.3 A circle is inscribed in an equilateral triangle of perimeter A
2
q cm. If the area of the circle is k cm , find k.
12 cm
Let the equilateral triangle be ABC, the centre of the
12 cm E
inscribed circle is O, which touches the triangle at D and
O
E, with radius r cm
Perimeter = 36 cm r cm
Each side = 12 cm
B 12 cm D C
ACB = 60 (s of an equilateral )
ODC = 90 (tangent radius)
OCD = 30 (tangent from ext. pt.)
CD = 6 cm (tangent from ext. pt.)
r = 6 tan 30 = 2 3
( ) 2
Area of circle = 2 3 cm2 = 12 cm2
k = 12
I2.4 Each interior angle of a regular polygon of k sides is m. Find m.
Angle sum of 12-sides polygon = 180(12 2) = 1800
Each interior angle = m = 1800 12 = 150
m = 150
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If 998a + 1 = 9992, find a.
998a = 9992 1
= (999 1)(999 + 1)
= 9981000
a = 1000
I3.2 If log10a = log2b, find b.
log10 1000 = log2b
log2 b = 3
b = 23 = 8
I3.3 The area of the triangle formed by the x-axis, the y-axis and the line 2x + y = b is c sq. units.
Find c.
2x + y = 8; x-intercept = 4, y-intercept = 8
1
c = area = 4 8 = 16
2
I3.4 If 64t2 + ct + d is a perfect square, find d.
64t2 + 16t + d has a double root
= 162 464d = 0
d=1
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Solve the equation 2a+1 + 2a + 2a1 = 112 in a.
1
2a(2 + 1 + ) = 112
2
2a = 32
a=5
Method 2
112 = 64 + 32 + 16 = 26 + 25 + 24
a=5
I4.2 If a is one root of the equation x2 bx + 35 = 0, find b.
One root of x2 bx + 35 = 0 is 5
52 5b + 35 = 0
b = 12
b c
I4.3 If sin = , where 180 < < 270, and tan = , find c.
15 3
12 4
sin = =
15 5
4
tan =
3
c=4
1
I4.4 The probability of getting a sum of c in throwing two dice is . Find d.
d
P(sum = 4) = P((1,3), (2, 2), (3, 1))
3 1 1
= = =
36 12 d
d = 12
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In the figure, find a. 12
a2 82 = 122 + 92 (Pythagoras Theorem)
8 9
a = 17
I5.2 If the lines ax + by = 1 and 10x 34y = 3 are perpendicular to each other, find b.
17x + by = 1 is perpendicular to 10x 34y = 3
product of slopes = 1
17 10
= 1
b 34
b=5
I5.3 If the bth day of May in a year is Friday and the cth day of May in the same year is Tuesday,
where 16 < c < 24, find c.
5th May is a Friday
9th May is Tuesday
16th May is Tuesday
23rd May is Tuesday
c = 23
I5.4 c is the dth prime number. Find d.
Reference: 1985 FSG.2, 1989 FSG.3
The first few prime numbers are: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23
23 is the 9th prime number
d=9

SG.1 The sum of two numbers is 50, and their product is 25.
If the sum of their reciprocals is a, find a.
Let the 2 numbers be x, y.
x + y = 50, xy = 25
1 1
a= +
x y
x+ y
=
xy
50
= =2
25
SG.2 If the lines ax + 2y + 1 = 0 and 3x + by + 5 = 0 are perpendicular, find b.
2x + 2y + 1 = 0 is to 3x + by + 5 = 0
2 3
= 1
2 b
b = 3
SG.3 The area of an equilateral triangle is 100 3 cm2. If its perimeter is p cm, find p.
Let the length of one side be x cm.
1 2
x sin 60 o = 100 3
2
x = 20
p = 60
SG.4 If x3 2x2 + px + q is divisible by x + 2, find q.
Let f(x) = x3 2x2 + 60x + q
f(2) = 8 8 120 + q = 0
q = 136
Group Event 6
(68 3
)( )
65 3 32 3 + 18 3
G6.1 If a =
(32 32 18 + 18 ) (68 + 68 65 + 65 ) , find a.
2 2 2 2
(32 + 18)(32 32 18 + 18 ) (68 65)(68 + 68 65 + 65 )

2 2 2 2
a=
(32 32 18 + 18 ) (68 + 68 65 + 65 )
2 2 2 2
= 503 = 150
G6.2 If the 3 points (a, b), (10, 4) and (20, 3) are collinear, find b.
b+4 3+ 4
150 10 20 10
b = 10
G6.3 If the acute angle formed by the hands of a clock at 4:15 is k, find k.
Reference 1984 FG7.1, 1985 FI3.1, 1987 FG7.1, 1989 FI1.1, 2007 HI1
1
k = 30 + 30 = 37.5
4
G6.4 In the figure, PQ = 10, RS = 15, QS = 20. If XY = d, find d. R
Reference: 1985 FI2.4, 1989 HG8 P
1 1 1 25 1
= + = = X 15
d 10 15 150 6 10
d
d=6
Q Y S
20
Group Event 7
G7.1 2 apples and 3 oranges cost 6 dollars.
4 apples and 7 oranges cost 13 dollars.
16 apples and 23 oranges cost C dollars. Find C.
Let the cost of one apple be $x and one orange be $y.
2x + 3y = 6 (1)
4x + 7y = 13 (2)
(2) 2(1): y = 1, x = 1.5
C = 16x + 23y = 24 + 23 = 47
6 cos + 5 sin
G7.2 If K = and tan = 2, find K.
2 cos + 3 sin
Reference: 1986 FG10.3, 1987 FG8.1, 1989 FSG.4, 1989 FG10.3
sin
6 cos
cos
+ 5 cos
K= sin
2 cos
cos
+ 3 cos
6 + 5 tan
=
2 + 3 tan
6 + 5 2
= =2
2 + 3 2
G7.3 and G7.4 A, B are positive integers less than 10 such that 21A104 11 = 2B8016 9.
Similar Questions 1985 FG8.1-2, 1988 FG8.3-4
G7.3 Find A.
11 and 9 are relatively prime, 21A104 is divisible by 9.
2 + 1 + A + 1 + 0 + 4 = 9m
8 + A = 9m
A=1
G7.4 Find B.
2B8016 is divisible by 11.
2 + 8 + 1 (B + 0 + 6) = 11n
11 (B + 6) = 11n
B=5
Group Event 8
In the multiplication shown, the letters A, B, C and K (A < B) represent different A C

) B C
integers from 1 to 9. K K K
(Hint: KKK = K111.)
G8.1 Find A.
12 = 1, 22 = 4, 32 = 9, 42 = 16, 52 = 25, 62 = 36, 72 = 49, 82 = 64, 92 = 81
Possible K = 1, 4, 5, 6, 9
100K + 10K + K = 111K = 337K, 37 is a prime number
Either 10A + C or 10B + C is divisible by 37
10B + C = 37 or 74
When B = 3, C = 7, K = 9
999 37 = 27
A=2
G8.2 Find B.
B=3
G8.3 Find C.
C=7
G8.4 Find K.
K=9
Group Event 9
G9.1 If S = ab 1 + a b and a = 101, b = 9, find S.
Reference: 1985 FG8.4, 1986 FG9.3, 1988 FG6.3
S = (a 1)(b + 1) = 10010 = 1000
K
G9.2 If x = 1.98& 9& and x 1 = , find K.
99
89
x = 1.9 +
990
K 9 89
x1= = +
99 10 990
9 99 + 89 980 98
= = =
990 990 99
K = 98
G9.3 The average of p, q and r is 18. The average of p + 1, q 2, r + 3 and t is 19. Find t.
p+q+r
= 18
3
p + q + r = 54
p +1+ q 2 + r + 3 + t
= 19
4
p + q + r + 2 + t = 76
54 + 2 + t = 76
t = 20
) ) )
G9.4 In the figure, QR , RP , PQ are 3 arcs, centres at X, Y and Z
Z
respectively, touching one another at P, Q and R. If ZQ = d,
XR = 3, YP = 12, X = 90, find d. d P
Q 12
XZ = 3 + d, XY = 3 + 12 = 15, YZ = 12 + d
XZ2 + XY2 = YZ2 (Pythagoras theorem)
X 3 R Y
(3 + d)2 + 152 = (12 + d)2
9 + 6d + d2 + 225 = 144 + 24d + d2
18d = 90
d=5
Group Event 10
G10.1 If A = 1 + 2 3 + 4 + 5 6 + 7 + 8 9 + + 97 + 98 99, find A.

Reference: 1985 FG7.4, 1988 FG6.4, 1991 FSI.1, 1992 FI1.4
A = (1 + 2 3) + (4 + 5 6) + (7 + 8 9) + + (97 + 98 99)
3 + 96
A = 0 + 3 + 6 + + 96 = 32 = 9916 = 1584
2
G10.2 If log10(k 1) log10(k2 5k + 4) + 1 = 0, find k.
10(k 1) = k2 5k + 4
k2 15k + 14 = 0
k = 1 or 14
When k = 1, LHS is undefined rejected

When k = 14, LHS = log10 13 log10(14 1)(14 4) + 1 = RHS
k = 14
G10.3 and G10.4 One interior angle of a convex n-sided polygon is x. The sum of the remaining
interior angles is 2180.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1992 HG3, 2002 FI3.4, 2013 HI6
G10.3 Find x.
2180 + x = 180(n 2) (s sum of polygon)
2160 + 20 + x = 18012 + 20 + x = 180(n 2)
Q x < 180
20 + x = 180
x = 160
G10.4 Find n.
n 2 = 12 + 1
n = 15
Answers: (1988-89 HKMO Heat Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 13 September 2015
1
1 7 2 2 3 24 4 5 12 km/h
2
88-89 6 45 7 45 8 4 9 2 10 12
Individual 5
11 12 147 13 3 14 2 15 24
12
16 12 17 6 : 25 18 24 19 230 20 12
9 3
1 2 7 3 6585 4 (12, 20) 5
88-89 20 2
Group 12
6 43 7 480 8 9 5 10 110768
5
Individual Events
1 1
I1 Given that x + = 3 , find x 2 + 2 .
x x
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1984 FG10.2, 1985 FI1.2, 1987 FG8.2, 1990 HI12, 1997 HG7
2
1 1
x + 2 = x + 2
2
x x
2
=3 2=7
I2 If x # y = xy 2x, find the value of 2 # 3.
2 # 3 = 2 3 2 2 = 2
I3 Find the number of sides of a regular polygon if an interior angle exceeds an exterior angle by
150. (Reference 1997 HG6)
sides.
180o (n 2 ) 360o
x= ,y=
n n
x = y + 150
180o (n 2 ) 360o
= + 150
n n
180(n 2) = 360 + 150n
18n 36 = 36 + 15n
n = 24
I4 Find the value of b such that 10 log10 9 = 8b + 5 .
9 = 8b + 5
1
b=
2
I5 A man cycles from P to Q with a uniform speed of 15 km/h and then back from Q to P with a
uniform speed of 10 km/h. Find the average speed for the whole journey.
Let the distance between P and Q be x km.
x x
Total distance travelled = 2x km. Total time = + hour.
15 10
2x
Average speed = km/h
x x
+
15 10
2
= = 12 km/h
2+3
30
I6 [x] denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to x. For example, [3] = 3, [5.7] = 5.
If [ 51]+ [ 5 2 ]+ L + [ 5 n ] = n + 14 , find n.
Reference 1991 HI13
[ 1]= 1, [ 2 ]= 1, , [ 31]= 1; [ 32 ]= 2, , [ 242 ]= 2; [ 243 ]= 3
5 5 5 5 5 5
If n 31, [ 1 ]+ [ 2 ]+ L + [ n ] = n
5 5 5
If 32 n 242, [ 1 ]+ [ 2 ]+ L + [ n ] = 31 + 2(n 31) = 2n 31

5 5 5
2n 31 = n + 14
n = 45
I7 A boy tries to find the area of a parallelogram by multiplying together the lengths of two
adjacent sides. His answer is 2 times the correct area. If the acute angle of the
parallelogram is x, find x. (Reference: 1991 FSG.3-4)
Let the lengths of two adjacent sides be a and b, where the angle between a and b is x.
ab = 2ab sin x o
1
sin x =
2
x = 45
I8 If the points A (8, 6), B (2, 1) and C (4, c) are collinear, find c.
Reference: 1984 FSG.4, 1984 FG7.3, 1986 FG6.2, 1987 FG7.4
mCB = mBA
c 1 1 6
=
4+2 2+8
c = 4
I9 The graphs of x2 + y = 8 and x + y = 8 meet at two points. If the distance between these two
points is d , find d.
From (1), y = 8 x2 (3)
From (2), y = 8 x (4)
(3) = (4): 8 x = 8 x2
x = 0 or 1
When x = 0, y = 8; when x = 1, y = 7
Distance between the points (0, 8) and (1, 7) = 12 + (7 8) = 2
2
d=2
I10 The sines of the three angles of a triangle are in the ratio 3 : 4 : 5. If A is the smallest interior
x
angle of the triangle and tan A = , find x.
16
Reference: 1990 HI6
Let a = 3k, b = 4k, c = 5k.
a2 + b2 = (3k)2 + (4k)2 = (5k)2 = c2
a 3 12
tan A = = =
b 4 16
x = 12
I11 Two dice are thrown. Find the probability that the sum of the two numbers shown is greater
than 7. (Reference: 2002 HG7)
P( sum > 7) = P(sum = 8 or 9 or 10 or 11 or 12)
5 4 3 2 1
= + + + +
36 36 36 36 36
15 5
= =
36 12
6 1
Method 2 P(7) = =
36 6
P(2, 3, 4, 5, 6) = P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
P(2, 3, 4, 5, 6) + P(7) + P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12) = 1
5
2P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12) = 1 P(7) =
6
5
P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12) =
12
2 x + 1 , if x 3
I12 F is a function defined by F ( x) = 2 . Find F (F (3) ) .
3 x , if x > 3
F(3) = 23 + 1 = 7
F(F(3)) = F(7) = 372 = 147
x 14

I13 If (a b c ) y = ax + by + cz and (1 2 3) y = 26 , find y. (Reference: 1986 FI3.4)
z 2

14

(1 2 3) y = 14 + 2y + 6 = 26 y = 3
2

1 sin 37 sin 45 cos 60 sin 60
I14 If = , find B.
B cos 30 cos 45 cos 53
=
sin 37 sin 45 cos 60 sin 60 1
= = cos 60 =
sin 60 sin 45 sin 37 2
B=2
(1) + (2) (3): 2y = 6 y = 3
(1) + (3) (2): 2x = 2 x = 1
(2) + (3) (1): 2z = 16 z = 8
xyz = 24
I16 , are the roots of the equation x2 10x + c = 0. If = 11 and > , find the value of
.
+ = 10
= ( + )2 4
= 10 2 4( 11) = 12
I17 In figure 1, FE // BC and ED // AB. If AF : FB = 3 : 2, find the A

ratio area of DEF : area of ABC. Reference: 1990 HG8
DEF FBD (A.S.A.) F E
Let SDEF = x = SFBD (where S stands for the area)
2
S AEF 3 9 B C
= = (1) D
S ACB 2 + 3 25
AE : EC = AF : FB = 3 : 2 (theorem of equal ratio) (Figure 1)
Q DE // AB
2
S CDE 2 4
= = (2)
S CBA 2 + 3 25
Compare (1) and (2) SAEF = 9k, SCDE = 4k, SABC = 25k
9k + 4k + x + x = 25k
x = 6k
area of DEF : area of ABC = 6 : 25
I18 In figure 2, a regular hexagon ABCDEF is inscribed in a circle A F
centred at O. If the distance of O from AB is 2 3 and p is the
perimeter of the hexagon, find p.
2 3
Let H be the foot of perpendiculars drawn from O onto AB.
AOB = 360 6 = 60 (s at a point) B O E
AOH = 30
1
AH = OH tan 30 = 2 3 =2
3 C D
AB = 4 (Figure 2)
Perimeter = 64 = 24
I19 In figure 3, ABCD and ACDE are cyclic quadrilaterals. Find the A
value of x + y.
Reference: 1992 FI2.3 B
x 50
ADC = 180 x (opp. s cyclic quad.)
ACD = 180 y (opp. s cyclic quad.) y E
180 y + 180 x + 50 = 180 (s sum of )
x + y = 230
(Figure 3) C D
I20 Find the value of a in figure 4. A
AOB ~ DOC (equiangular) 2
C
a 6 4
=
4 2 O a
4
a = 12 B
6
(Figure 4) D
Group Events
G1 Given a and b are distinct real numbers satisfying a2 = 5a + 10 and b2 = 5b + 10. Find the
1 1
value of 2 + 2 .
a b
a + b = 5; ab = 10
1 a 2 + b 2 (a + b ) 2ab 5 2 2( 10 ) 9
2
1
+ = = = =
a 2 b2 a 2b 2 (ab )2 ( 10)2 20
G2 An interior angle of an n-sided convex polygon is x while the sum of other interior angles is
800. Find the value of n. (1990 FG10.3-4, 1992 HG3, 2002 FI3.4, 2013 HI6)
800 = 1804 + 80
Q 0 < x < 180
800 + x = 1805 = 180(n 2)
n=7
n(n + 1)(2n + 1)
G3 It is known that 12 + 22 + + n2 = for all positive integers n.
6
Find the value of 212 + 222 + + 302.
Reference: 1993 HI6
212 + 222 + + 302 = 12 + 22 + + 302 (12 + 22 + + 202)
1 1
= 303161 202141 = 9455 - 2870 = 6585
6 6
G4 One of the positive integral solutions of the equation 19x + 88y = 1988 is given by (100, 1).
Find another positive integral solution. (Reference: 1991 HG8)
19 y y1
88 x2 x1
19 y 1
= 2
88 x2 100
y2 = 1 19t, x2 = 100 + 88t
25 1
<t <
22 19
Q t is an integer t = 0 or 1
When t = 1, x2 = 12, y2 = 20 another positive integral solution is (12, 20).
AP
G5 The line joining A(2, 3) and B(17, 23) meets the line 2x y = 7 at P. Find the value of .
PB
Reference: 1990 HG3
y 3 23 3
Equation of AB: = 3y = 4x + 1 (2)
x 2 17 2
From (1): y = 2x 7 (3)
Sub. (3) into (2): 3(2x 7) = 4x + 1 x = 11
Sub. x = 11 into (3): y = 2(11) 7 = 15
The point of intersection is P(11, 15).
AP 11 2 3
= =
PB 17 11 2
G6 Find the remainder when 72047 is divided by 100.

Reference: 2002 HG4
71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401
The last 2 digits repeats for every multiples of 4.
72047 = 74511+3
The last 2 digits is 43.
G7 If log2[log3(log7 x)] =log3[log7(log2 y)] =log7[log2(log3 z)] = 0, find the value of x + y + z.
log2[log3(log7 x)] = 0
log3(log7 x) = 1
log7 x = 3
x = 73 = 343
log3[log7(log2 y)] = 0
log7(log2 y) = 1
log2 y = 7
y = 27 = 128
log7[log2(log3 z)] = 0
log2(log3 z) = 1
log3 z = 2
z = 32 = 9
x + y + z = 343 + 128 + 9 = 480
G8 In figure 1, AB // MN // CD. If AB = 4, CD = 6 and MN = x, D
find the value of x. B
Reference: 1985 FI2.4, 1990 FG6.4 N 6
AMN ~ ACD (equiangular) 4
x AM x
= (1) (ratio of sides, ~s)
6 AC A M C
CMN ~ CAB (equiangular) (Figure 1)
x MC
4 AC
x x AM + MC 12
(1) + (2): + = = 1 x =
6 4 AC 5
G9 In figure 2, B = 90, BC = 3 and the radius of the inscribed A
circle of ABC is 1. Find the length of AC.
Let the centre be O. Suppose the circle touches BC at P, AC at Q
and AB at R respectively. Let AB = c and AC = b. Q
OP BC, OQ AC, OR AB (tangent radius) O
OPBR is a rectangle OPBR is a square. R 1
BP = BR = 1 (opp. sides of rectangle) 1
CP = 3 1 = 2 B C
CQ = CP = 2 (tangent from ext. point) P 3
Let AR = AQ = t (tangent from ext. point)
32 + (1 + t)2 = (2 + t)2 (Pythagoras theorem)
9 + 1 + 2t + t2 = 4 + 4t + t2
6 = 2t
t = 3 AC = 2 + 3 = 5
G10 In the attached division (see figure 3), the *8*

dividend in (a) is divisible by the divisor in line
(b) ......... * * * ) * * * * * * ......... (a)
(b). Find the dividend in line (a). (Each asterisk
* is an integer from 0 to 9.) ****
Relabel the * as shown. ***
Let a = (a18a3)x,
***
b = (b1b2b3)x
c = (c1c2c3c4c5c6)x ****
d = (d1d2d3d4)x ****
e = (e1e2e3)x a1 8 a3
f = (f1f2f3)x
(b) ......... b1 b2 b3 ) c1 c2 c3 c4 c5 c6 ......... (a)
g = (g1g2g3g4)x
Q 8b = e and a1b = d, a3b = g 4-digit numbers d1 d2 d3 d4
a1 = 9 and a3 = 9 and d = g e1 e2 e3
d = 9b > 1000 and f = 8b < 999 f1 f2 f3
112 b 124 (1)
b1 = 1, d1 = 1 g1 g2 g3 g4
b2 = 1 or 2, f1 = 8 or 9, d2 = 0 or 1 g1 g2 g3 g4
c1 = 1 9 8 9
e1 f1 = 1
(b) ......... 1 b2 b3 ) 1 c2 c3 c4 c5 c6 ......... (a)
f1 = 8 and e1 = 9
8b = (8f2f3)x < 900 1 d2 d3 d4
b < 112.5 (2) e1 e2 e3
Combine (1) and (2) f1 f2 f3
b = 112
c = 989112 = 110768 1 d2 d3 d4
1 d2 d3 d4
Individual Events
SI a 900 I1 a 35 I2 a 7 I3 8 I4 t 13 I5 a 30
b 7 b 7 b 3 b 16 s 4 b 150
c 3 c 10 c 9 A 128 a 3 n 12
d 5 d 2 d 5 d 7 c 12 k 24
Group Events
SG a 2 G6 n 8 G7 G 1 G8 y 7 G9 x 40 G10 a 6
b 9 k 5 D 8 k 96 y 3 x 3
p 23 u 35 L 2 a 1 k 8 k 2
k 3 a 1 E 5 m 2 r 5 y 4

SI.1 In the given diagram, the sum of the three marked angles is a.
Find a.
Reference: 1984 FSI.1 1987 FSG.3
Sum of interior angles of a triangle = 180
angle sum of three vertices = 3360 = 1080
a = 1080 180 = 900
SI.2 The sum of the interior angles of a convex b-sided polygon is a. Find b.
Reference 1984 FSI.2
a = 900 = 180(b 2)
b=7
SI.3 If 27b1 = c18, find c.
33(71) = c18
c=3
SI.4 If c = logd 125, find d.
3 = c = logd 125
d3 = 125
d=5
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The obtuse angle formed by the hands of a clock at 10:30 is (100 + a). Find a.
Reference 1984 FG7.1, 1985 FI3.1, 1987 FG7.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
At 10:00, the angle between the arms of the clock = 60
1 1
From 10:00 to 10:30, the hour-hand had moved 360 = 15.
12 2
The minute hand had moved 180.
100 + a = 180 60 + 15 = 135 a = 35
I1.2 The lines ax + by = 0 and x 5y + 1 = 0 are perpendicular to each other. Find b.
35 1
= 1
b 5
b=7
I1.3 If (b + 1)4 = 2c+2, find c.
84 = 2c+2
23(4) = 2c+2
c = 10
I1.4 If c 9 = logc (6d 2), find d.
10 9 = 1 = log10 (6d 2)
6d 2 = 10
d=2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If 1000a = 852 152, find a.
1000a = (85 + 15)(85 15) = 10070
a=7
I2.2 The point (a, b) lies on the line 5x + 2y = 41. Find b.
5(7) + 2b = 41
b=3
I2.3 x + b is a factor of x2 + 6x + c. Find c.
Put x = 3 into x2 + 6x + c = 0
(3)2 + 6(3) + c = 0
c=9
I2.4 If d is the distance between the points (c, 1) and (5, 4), find d.
d2 = (9 5)2 + (1 4)2 = 25
d=5
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If + = 11, = 24 and > , find .
and are the roots of the equation x2 11x + 24 = 0
(x 3)(x 8) = 0
Q>=8
b
I3.2 If tan = , 90 < < 180 and sin = , find b.
15 34
In the figure, P = (8, 15)
P(8, -15)
r2 = 82 + (15)2 (Pythagoras theorem) 2
r = 17 r
8 16 8
sin = =
17 34
N -15 O
b = 16
I3.3 If A is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of diameter b, find A.
Reference: 1984 FG10.1, 1985 FSG.4
E D
Let the square be BCDE.
BC = 16 cos 45 = 8 2
( ) 2
A = 8 2 = 128 16
45
B C
I3.4 If x2 + 22x + A (x + k)2 + d, where k, d are constants, find d.

x2 + 22x + 128 (x + 11)2 + 7
d=7
Individual Event 4
I4.1 The average of p, q, r is 12. The average of p, q, r, t, 2t is 15. Find t.
p + q + r = 36
p + q + r + t + 2t = 75
3t = 75 36 = 39
t = 13
1 1
I4.2 k is a real number such that k4 + 4 = t + 1, and s = k2 + 2 . Find s.
k k
1
k4 + 4 = 14
k
1
k4 + 2 + 4 = 16
k
1
(k2 + 2 )2 = 16
k
1
s = k2 + 2 = 4
k
I4.3 M and N are the points (1, 2) and (11, 7) respectively. P(a, b) is a point on MN such that
MP : PN = 1 : s. Find a.
MP : PN = 1 : 4
4 + 11
a= =3
1+ 4
I4.4 If the curve y = ax2 + 12x + c touches the x-axis, find c.
y = 3x2 + 12x + c
= 122 4(3)c = 0
c = 12
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In the figure, find a. (Reference: 1997 FG1.1) P
T
Label the vertices A, B, C, D, E, P, Q, R, S, T as shown. a
AEP = 40 + 45 = 85 (ext. of SQE) 30 E
A
EAP = 30 + 35 = 65 (ext. of TRA) Q
In AEP, 85 + 65 + a = 180 (s sum of ) D 45
a = 30 B
C 35
40
S R
I5.2 If sin(a + 210) = cos b, and 90 < b < 180, find b.
3
sin 240 = = cos b
2
b = 150
I5.3 Each interior angle of an n-sided regular polygon is b. Find n.
Each exterior angle = 30 (adj. s on st. line)
360
= 30 (sum of exterior angles of polygon)
n
n = 12
I5.4 If the nth day of March in a year is Friday. The kth day of March in the same year is Wednesday,
where 20 < k < 25, find k.
12th March is Friday
17th March is Wednesday
k = 24
Sample Group Event

SG.1 If 2at2 + 12t + 9 = 0 has equal roots, find a.
(12)2 4(2a)(9) = 0
a=2
SG.2 If ax + by = 1 and 4x + 18y = 3 are parallel, find b.
2 4
=
b 18
b=9
SG.3 The b th prime number is p. Find p.
Reference: 1985 FSG.2, 1990 FI5.4
2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23, 29,
p = 23
4 sin + 3 cos
SG.4 If k = and tan = 3, find k.
2 sin cos
Reference: 1986 FG10.3, 1987 FG8.1, 1989 FG10.3, 1990 FG7.2
k=
(4 sin + 3 cos ) cos
(2 sin cos ) cos
4 tan + 3
=
2 tan 1
4(3) + 3
= =3
2(3) 1
Group Event 6
G6.1 An n-sided convex polygon has 20 diagonals. Find n.
Reference: 1984 FG10.3, 1985 FG8.3, 1988 FG6.2, 1991 FI2.3, 2001 FI4.2, 2005 FI1.4
n(n 1)
Number of diagonals = C2n n = n = 20
2
n2 3n 40 = 0
(n 8)(n + 5) = 0
n=8
k
G6.2 Two dice are thrown. The probability of getting a total of n is . Find k.
36
Total = 8
Favourable outcomes = {(2, 6), (3, 5), (4, 4), (5, 3), (6, 2)}
5
P(total = 8) =
36
k=5
G6.3 A man drives at 25 km/h for 3 hours and then at 50 km/h for 2 hours.
His average speed for the whole journey is u km/h. Find u.
25 3 + 50 2
u= = 35
3+ 2
G6.4 If ab = ab + 1 and (2a)3 = 10, find a.
2a = 2a + 1
(2a)3 = (2a + 1)3 = 3(2a + 1) + 1 = 10
6a + 4 = 10
a=1
Group Event 7
In the attached calculation, different letters represent different integers G O L D E N
ranging from 1 to 9.
J
If the letters O and J represent 4 and 6 respectively, find
D E N G O L
G7.1 G.
G7.2 D. 1 4 L 8 E N
G7.3 L. 6
G7.4 E.
8 E N 1 4 L
Carry digit in the 100000 digit is 2
G = 1, D = 8
Carry digit in the hundreds digit is 3 1 4 2 8 5 7
E=5
6
Carry digit in the tens digit is 4
8 5 7 1 4 2
N = 7, L = 2
G = 1, D = 8, L = 2, E = 5
Group Event 8
14
G8.1 If y is the greatest value of , find y.
5 + 3 sin
2 5 + 3 sin 8
14 14 14

8 5 + 3 sin 2
y=7
G8.2 In the figure, 100 cos = k. Find k.
Hypotenuse = 25
k = 100 cos( 180) y
24
= 100 = 96
25
24
2
G8.3 When 3x + 4x + a is divided by x + 2, the remainder is 5. Find a.
3(2)2 + 4(2) + a = 5
a=1
1
G8.4 The solution for 3t2 5t 2 < 0 is < t < m. Find m.
3
(3t + 1)(t 2) < 0
1
<t<2
3
m=2
Group Event 9
G9.1 In the figure, BAC = 70 and FDE = x. Find x. A
AFC = 90 = ADC (given)
F E
ACDF is a cyclic quad (converse, s in the same seg.)
BDF = BAC = 70 (ext. , cyclic quad.) H
AEB = 90 = ADB (given)
ABDE is a cyclic quad (converse, s in the same seg.)
CDE = BAC = 70 (ext. , cyclic quad.) B D C
FDE = 180 BDF CDE (adj. s on st. line)
= 180 70 70 = 40
x = 40
G9.2 A cuboid is y cm wide, 6 cm long and 5 cm high. Its surface area is 126 cm2. Find y.
2(5y + 6y + 56) = 126
11y = 33
y=3
1
G9.3 If log9(log2 k) = , find k.
2
log2 k = 9 = 3
k = 23 = 8
G9.4 If a : b = 3 : 8, b : c = 5 : 6 and a : c = r : 16, find r.
a : b : c = 15 : 40 : 48
a : c = 15 : 48 = 5 : 16
r=5
Group Event 10
6 3
G10.1 If = 3 a + 6 , find a.
3 2 2 3
(
6 3 3 2 +2 3 )
= 3 a +6
18 12
3 6 +6 =3 a +6
a=6
G10.2 In the figure, find x.
Reference: 1994 FI4.3 9
By similar triangles 6
b
6 : 9 = a : (a + b) a 1
a = 2k, b = k x
x : 1 = (a + b) : b = 3 : 1
x=3
6 cos 2 + 2 sin cos + sin 2
G10.3 If k = and tan = 2, find k.
cos 2 + sin cos + sin 2
(6 cos 2
)
+ 2 sin cos + sin 2 cos 2
k=
(cos 2
)
+ sin cos + sin 2 cos 2
6 + 2 tan + tan 2
=
1 + tan + tan 2
6 + 2(2 ) + 2 2
= =2
1 + 2 + 22
G10.4 If y =
( ) (
3 2k 4 2k 2 )
, find y.
2 k 2 k 1
y=
( ) (
3 2k 4 2k 2 )
2 k 2 k 1
3 1
= =4
1 12
Answers: (1987-88 HKMO Final Events) Created by Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 13 December 2015
Individual Events
SI a 900 I1 P 100 I2 k 4 I3 h 3 I4 a 18 I5 a 495
b 7 Q 8 m 58 k 6 r 3 b 2
9
p 2 R 50 a 2 m 4 M x 99
4
15
q 9 S 3 b 3 p w 1 Y 109
16
Group Events
SG p 75 G6 x 125 G7 M 5 G8 S 27 G9 p 60 G10 n 18
q 0.5 n 10 N 6 T 135 t 10 k 22
a 9 y 1000 a 8 A 9 K 43 t 96
168
m 14 K 1003 k 4 B 0 C 9 h
25
Sample Individual Event (1984 Sample Individual Event)
Find a.
a = 1080 180 = 900
SI.2 The sum of the interior angles of a regular b-sided polygon is a. Find b.
a = 900 = 180(b 2)
b=7
SI.3 If 8b = p21, find p.
87 = p21
221 = p21
p=2
SI.4 If p = logq 81, find q.
2 = p = logq 81 and q > 0
q2 = 81
q=9
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If N(t) = 10018t and P = N(0), find P.
P = 100180 = 100
I1.2 A fox ate P grapes in 5 days, each day eating 6 more than on the previous day.
If he ate Q grapes on the first day, find Q.
Q + (Q + 6) + (Q + 12) + (Q + 18) + (Q + 24) = P = 100
5Q + 60 = 100
Q=8
25 1
I1.3 If Q% of is % of R, find R.
32 Q
25 8 1
= R
32 100 100 8
R = 50
50
I1.4 If one root of the equation 3x2 ax + R = 0 is and the other root is S, find S.
9
50 R 50
S = product of roots = =
9 3 3
S=3
Individual Event 2
a b 3 4
I2.1 If = ad bc and = k, find k.
c d 2 k
3k 8 = k
k=4
I2.2 If 50m = 542 k2, find m.
50m = 542 42 = (54 + 4)(54 4) = 5850
m = 58
I2.3 If (m + 6)a = 212, find a.
(58 + 6)a = 212
64a = 212
26a = 212
a=2
I2.4 A, B and C are the points (a, 5), (2, 3) and (4, b) respectively. If AB BC, find b.
A(2, 5), B(2, 3), C(4, b).
AB is parallel to y-axis
BC is parallel to x-axis
b=3
Individual Event 3
3 2 21 h
I3.1 If , find h.
2 7 3 25
3 2 7 3 2 21 h

2 7 3 2 7 3 25
2 21 3 2 21 h
h=3
I3.2 The given figure shows a circle of radius 2h cm, centre O. B

If AOB = , and the area of sector AOBP is k cm2, find k.
P
3 O A
2
2 3 k
1
2 3
k=6
I3.3 A can do a job in k days, B can do the same job in (k + 6) days.
If they work together, they can finish the job in m days. Find m.
1 1 1

m k k 6
1 1 1

m 6 12
m=4
I3.4 m coins are tossed. If the probability of obtaining at least one head is p, find p.
P(at least one head) = 1 P(all tail)
4
1 15
=1 =
2 16
Individual Event 4
t
I4.1 If f (t) = 2 , and f (a) = 4, find a.
3
a
f (a) = 2 = 4
3
a = 18
I4.2 If a + 9 = 12Q + r, where Q, r are integers and 0 < r < 12, find r.
18 + 9 = 27 = 122 + 3 = 12Q + r
r=3
I4.3 x, y are real numbers. If x + y = r and M is the maximum value of xy, find M.
x+y=3
y=3x
xy = x(3 x) = 3x x2 = (x 1.5)2 + 2.25
9
M = 2.25 =
4
8
I4.4 If w is a real number and 22w 2w M = 0, find w.
9
8 9
22w 2w = 0
9 4
(2 ) 2w 2 = 0
w 2
(2w + 1)(2w 2) = 0
w=1
Individual Event 5
177
I5.1 If 0.35 7 , find a.
a
3
0.35 7 = 0.05 7
10
3 57
=
10 990
297 57
=
990
354 59 177
= = =
990 165 495
177
=
a
a = 495
I5.2 If tan2 a + 1 = b, find b.
b = tan2 495 + 1
= tan2(1803 45) + 1
=1+1=2
I5.3 In the figure, AB AD, BAC = 26 + b, BCD = 106. B
If ABC = x, find x.
1
BCA = DCA = BCD = 53 (eq. chords eq. s) C
2
BAC = 28 A
x = ABC = 180 28 53 = 99 (s sum of )
x = 99
D
m p 3 x
I5.4 If h k hm kn hp kq and 1 2 11 Y , find Y.
n q 4 5
1 3 2 4 x 2 5 11 Y
Y = 109
Sample Group Event (1984 Group Event 7)

SG.1 The acute angle between the 2 hands of a clock at 3:30 p.m. is p. Find p.
At 3:00 p.m., the angle between the arms of the clock = 90
1 1
From 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., the hour-hand had moved 360 = 15.
12 2
p = 180 90 15 = 75
SG.2 In ABC, B C p. If q sin A, find q.
B C 75, A 180 75 75 = 30
1
q = sin 30 =
2
SG.3 The 3 points (1, 3), (2, 5), (4, a) are collinear. Find a.
95 a 3
=2
4 2 4 1
a=9
SG.4 The average of 7, 9, x, y,17 is 10. If the average of x +3, x +5, y + 2, 8 and y + 18 is m, find m.
7 9 x y 17
= 10
5
x + y = 17
x 3 x 5 y 2 8 y 18
m=
5
2 x y 36
=
5
= 14
Group Event 6
G6.1 In the figure, the bisectors of B and C meet at I. A
If A = 70 and BIC = x, find x.
Let ABI = b = CBI, ACI = c = BCI
2b + 2c + 70 = 180 (s sum of ) I
b + c = 55
In BCI, b + c + x = 180 (s sum of ) B C
x = 180 55 = 125
G6.2 A convex n-sided polygon has 35 diagonals. Find n.
C2n n 35
nn 3
35
2
n2 3n 70 = 0
(n 10)(n + 7) = 0
n = 10
G6.3 If y = ab a + b 1 and a 49, b 21, find y.
y = (a + 1)(b 1) = (49 + 1)(21 1) = 5020 = 1000
G6.4 If K = 1 + 2 3 4 + 5 + 6 7 8 + + 1001 + 1002, find K.
K = 1 + (2 3 4 + 5) + (6 7 8 + 9) + + (998 999 1000 + 1001) + 1002 = 1003
Group Event 7 (Similar Questions 1985 FG8.1-2, 1990 FG7.3-4)

M, N are positive integers less than 10 and 8M420852 9 N9889788 11.
G7.1 Find M.
8M420852 is divisible by 11
8 + 4 + 0 + 5 (M + 2 + 8 + 2) is divisible by 11
5 M = 11k
M=5
G7.2 Find N.
N9889788 is divisible by 9
N + 9 + 8 + 8 + 9 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 9t
N=6
x y
G7.3 The equation of the line through (4, 3) and (12, 3) is 1 . Find a.
a b
y 3 3 3

x4 4 12
3x 12 + 4y 12 = 0
3x + 4y = 24
x y
1
8 6
a=8
G7.4 If x + k is a factor of 3x2 + 14x + a, find k. (k is an integer.)
3(k)2 + 14(k) + 8 = 0
3k2 14k + 8 = 0
(3k 2)(k 4) = 0
2
k = 4 (reject )
3
Group Event 8
3
G8.1 If log9 S = , find S.
2
3
S = 9 2 = 27
G8.2 If the lines x + 5y = 0 and Tx Sy = 0 are perpendicular to each other, find T.
Reference: 1983 FG9.3, 1984 FSG.3, 1985 FI4.1, 1986 FSG.2, 1987 FG10.2
1 T
1
5 27
T = 135
The 3-digit number AAA, where A 0, and the 6-digit number AAABBB satisfy the following
equality: AAA AAA + AAA = AAABBB.
G8.3 Find A.
A(111) A(111) + A(111) = A(111000) + B(111)
111A2 + A = 1000A + B
Consider the thousands digit: 9 < A2 81
A = 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
When A = 4: 11116 + 4 = 4000 + B (rejected)
When A = 5: 11125 + 5 = 5000 + B (rejected)
When A = 6: 11136 + 6 = 6000 + B (rejected)
When A = 7: 11149 + 7 = 7000 + B (rejected)
When A = 8: 11164 + 8 = 8000 + B (rejected)
When A = 9: 11181 + 9 = 9000 + B
A=9
G8.4 Find B.
B=0
Group Event 9
G9.1 The area of an equilateral triangle is 50 12 . If its perimeter is p, find p.
Reference: 1984FI4.4, 1985 FSI.4, 1986 FSG.3, 1987 FG6.2
p
Each side =
3
2
1 p
sin 60 50 12 100 3
2 3
p = 60
G9.2 The average of q, y, z is 14. The average of q, y, z, t is 13. Find t.
q yz
= 14
3
q + y + z = 42
q y z t
13
4
42 t
= 13
4
t = 10
G9.3 If 7 24x 4x2 K + A(x + B)2, where K, A, B are constants, find K.
Reference: 1984 FI2.4, 1985 FG10.2, 1986 FG7.3, 1987 FSI.1
7 24x 4x2 4(x2 + 6x) + 7 4(x + 3)2 + 43
K = 43
34 n 9n 4
G9.4 If C = , find C.
27 2 n 2
34 n 32 n8
C= =9
36 n6
Group Event 10
G10.1 Each interior angle of an n-sided regular polygon is 160. Find n.
360
20
n
n = 18
th th
G10.2 The n day of May in a year is Friday. The k day of May in the same year is Tuesday, where
20 < k < 26. Find k.
18th May is Friday
22nd May is Tuesday
k = 22
In the figure, AD BC, BA CA, AB 7, BC 25, AD h A

and CAD = .

7 h
D
B C
25
G10.3 If 100 sin = t, find t.
AC2 + 72 = 252 (Pythagoras theorem)
AC = 24
ACD = 90 (s sum of )
ABC = (s sum of )
24
t = 100 sin = 100 = 96
25
G10.4 Find h.
1 1
Area of ABC = 7 24 25h
2 2
168
h=
25
Method 2
In ABD,
h = AB sin
24 168
=7 =
25 25
Individual Events
SI a 10 I1 A 380 I2 r 3 I3 x 30 I4 a 8 I5 a 1968
b 280 B 70 x 1 a 6 b 17 b 2
c 400 n 60 y 15 c 8 d 287 c 25
d 120 m 5 p 40 f(4) 63 K 280 d 95
Group Events
SG A 10 G6 p 60 G7 A 75 G8 A 2 G9 A 1 G10 A 20
B 4 k 100 B 3 B 52 B 0 B 30
C 900 N 9 C 2 N 5 C 8 C 2
D 18 M 999999 D 5 K 16 D 9 D 18

SI.1 If x2 8x + 26 (x + k)2 + a, find a.
Reference: 1984 FI2.4, 1985 FG10.2, 1986 FG7.3, 1988 FG9.3
x2 8x + 26 (x 4)2 + 26 16
a = 10
SI.2 If sin a = cos b, where 270 < b < 360, find b.
sin 10 = cos b
cos b = cos 80
b = 360 80 = 280
SI.3 X sold an article to Y for $b at a loss of 30%. If the cost price of the article for X is $c, find c.
c(1 30%) = 280
c = 400
SI.4 3c o
In the figure, O is the centre of the circle. If ACB = and
10
AOB = d, find d. O
ACB = 120 A B
reflex AOB = 240 ( at centre twice at ce)
AOB = 120 (s at a point) C
d = 120
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If A = 11 + 12 + 13 + + 29, find A.
A=
1
(11 + 29) 19 = 380
2
I1.2 If sin A = cos B, where 0 < B < 90, find B.
sin 380 = cos B
sin 20 = cos B
B = 70
I1.3 In the given figure, PQR = B, PRQ = 50. If QSR = n, find n. Q
PQR = 70
QPR = 60 (s sum of )
n = 60 (s in the same segment)
P R
S
I1.4 n cards are marked from 1 to n and one is drawn at random. If the chance of it being a
1
multiple of 5 is , find m.
m
Favourable outcome = {5, 10, , 60}
1 12 1
= =
m 60 5
m=5
Individual Event 2
I2.1 The volume of a sphere with radius r is 36, find r.
4 3
r = 36
3
r=3
I2.2 If rx + r1x = 4 and x > 0, find x.
3
3x + = 4 (It is straight forward by guessing x = 1)
3x
(3x)2 43x + 3 = 0
(3x 1)(3x 3) = 0
3x = 1 or 3
x = 0 (rejected, as x > 0) or 1
I2.3 In a : b = 5 : 4, b : c = 3 : x and a : c = y : 4, find y.
a : b : c = 15 : 12 : 4
a : c = 15 : 4
y = 15
I2.4 In the figure, AB is a diameter of the circle. APQ and RBQ Q
are straight lines.
y
If PAB = 35, PQB = y and RPB = p, find p. P
ABR = 35 + y = 50 (ext. of )
p
APR = ABR = 50 (s in the same segment) A 35
B
p + 50 = 90 ( in semi-circle)
p = 40
R
Individual Event 3
I3.1 In the figure, find x.
x + 20 + 2x + 10 + 2x = 180 (s sum of ) (2x + 10)
x = 30
(x + 20) 2x
I3.2 The coordinates of the points P and Q are (a, 2) and (x, 6) respectively.
If the coordinates of the mid-point of PQ is (18, b), find a.
1
(a + 30) = 18
2
a=6
I3.3 A man travels from X to Y at a uniform speed of a km/h and returns at a uniform speed of
2a km/h. If his average speed is c km/h, find c.
Let the distance between X and Y be s km.
2s 2
c= s s =1 1 =8
a + 2a 6
+ 12
I3.4 If f (y) = 2y2 + cy 1, find f (4).
f (4) = 2(4)2 + 8(4) 1 = 63
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If the curve y = 2x2 8x + a touches the x-axis, find a.
= (8)2 4(2)a = 0
a=8
I4.2 In the figure, AB is a diameter of the circle.
If AC = 15, BC = a and AB = b, find b.
ACB = 90 ( in semi-circle)
b2 = 152 + 82 (Pythagoras theorem) A
b
B
b = 17
a
15
C
I4.3 The line 5x + by + 2 = d passes through (40, 5). Find d.
d = 5(40) + 17(5) + 2 = 287
I4.4 X sold an article to Y for $d at a profit of 2.5%.
If the cost price of the article for X is $K, find K.
K = 287(1 + 2.5%) = 280
Individual Event 5
a
I5.1 Let x = 19.8& 7& . If 19.8& 7& = , find a. (Hint: 99x = 100 x x)
99
99x = 100 x x = 1987 + 0.8& 7& 19. 8& 7& = 1968
1968
x=
99
a = 1968
I5.2 If f (y) = 4 sin y and f (a 18) = b, find b.
b = f (a 18) = f (1950)
= 4 sin 1950
= 4 sin(3605 + 150)
= 4 sin 150 = 2
3 2 21 + 3
I5.3 If = , find c.
b 7 3 c
3 2 7 + 3 2 21 + 3
=
2 7 3 2 7+ 3 c
c = 4(7) 3 = 25
I5.4 In the figure, ST is a tangent to the circle at P. M
If MQP = 70, QPT = c and MRQ = d, find d. R
d
MRP = 70 (s in the same segment)
PRQ = c = 25 ( in alt. segment) 70 Q
c
d = 70 + 25 = 95 S
P
T
Sample Group Event

SG.1 If 100A = 352 152, find A.
100A = (35 15)(35 + 15) = 1000
A = 10
SG.2 If (A 1)6 = 27B, find B.
(10 1)6 = 27B
312 = 33B
B=4
SG.3 In the given diagram, the sum of the three marked angles is C. Find C.
Reference: 1984 FSI.1, 1989 FSI.1
C = 1080 180 = 900
SG.4 If the lines x + 2y + 1 = 0 and 9x + Dy + 1 = 0 are parallel, find D.
1 9
=
2 D
D = 18
Group Event 6
G6.1 If , are the roots of x2 10x + 20 = 0, and p = 2 + 2, find p.
+ = 10, = 20
p = ( + )2 2
= 102 2(20) = 60
G6.2 The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is p. If its area is k 3 , find k.
Length of one side = 20
1
202 sin 60o = k 3
2
k = 100
G6.3 Each interior angle of an N-sided regular polygon is 140. Find N.
360o
= 40 (sum of ext. s of polygon)
N
N=9
G6.4 If M = (102 + 101 + 12)(102 12)(102 101 + 12), find M.
M = (102 + 101 + 12)(10 1)(10 + 1)(102 101 + 12)
= (103 1)(103 + 1)
= 106 1 = 999999
Group Event 7
G7.1 The acute angle formed by the hands of a clock at 3:30 p.m. is A. Find A.
Reference 1984 FG7.1, 1985 FI3.1, 1989 FI1.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
1 1
12 2
A = 180 90 15 = 75
G7.2 If tan(3A + 15) = B , find B.
tan(225 + 15) = B
B=3
G7.3 If log10AB = C log1015, find C.
log10 (753) = C log10 15
log10 225 = C log10 15
C=2
G7.4 The points (1, 3), (4, 9) and (2, D) are collinear. Find D.
Reference: 1984 FSG.4, 1984 FG7.3, 1986 FG6.2, 1989 HI8
D9 93
=
2 4 4 1
D 9 = 4
D=5
Group Event 8
5 sin + 4 cos
G8.1 If A = and tan = 2, find A.
3 sin + cos
Reference: 1986 FG10.3, 1989 FSG.4, 1989 FG10.3, 1990 FG7.2
A=
(3 sin + cos ) cos
5 tan + 4
=
3 tan + 1
5(2 ) + 4
= =2
3(2 ) + 1
1 1
G8.2 If x + = 2A, and x 3 + 3 = B, find B.
x x
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1984 FG10.2, 1985 FI1.2, 1989 HI1, 1990 HI12, 2002 FG2.2
1
x+ = 4
x
1
x2 + 2
= 42 2 = 14
x
1
B = x3 +
x3
1 1
= x + x 2 1 + 2
x x
= 4(14 1) = 52
G8.3 There are exactly N values of satisfying the equation cos3 cos = 0, where 0 360.
Find N.
cos (cos + 1)(cos 1) = 0
cos = 0, 1 or 1
= 90, 270, 180, 0, 360
N=5
G8.4 If the Nth day of May in a year is Thursday and the Kth day of May in the same year is Monday,
where 10 < K < 20, find K.
5th May is Thursday
9th May is Monday
16th May is Monday
K = 16
Group Event 9
In the given multiplication, different letters represent different integers ranging A B C D
from 0 to 9. 9
G9.1 Find A. D C B A
G9.2 Find B.
1 B C 9
G9.3 Find C.
G9.4 Find D. 9
Reference: 1994 HI6 9 C B 1
As there is no carry digit in the thousands digit multiplication, A = 1, D = 9
Consider the tens digit: 9C + 8 B (mod 10) (1)
As there is no carry digit in the thousands digit, let the carry digit in the
hundreds digit be x.
9B + x = C and B, C are distinct integers different from 1 and 9
B = 0, C = x
Sub. B = 0 into (1): 9C + 8 0 (mod 10)
9C 2 (mod 10)
C=8
A = 1, B = 0, C = 8, D = 9
Group Event 10
G10.1 The average of p, q, r and s is 5. The average of p, q, r, s and A is 8. Find A.
p + q + r + s = 20
p + q + r + s + A = 40
A = 20
G10.2 If the lines 3x 2y + 1 = 0 and Ax + By + 1 = 0 are perpendicular, find B.
3 20
= 1 B = 30
2 B
G10.3 When Cx3 3x2 + x 1 is divided by x + 1, the remainder is 7. Find C.
C(1) 3 1 1 = 7
C=2
G10.4 If P, Q are positive integers such that P + Q + PQ = 90 and D = P + Q, find D.
(Hint: Factorise 1 + P + Q + PQ)
WLOG assume P Q, 1 + P + Q + PQ = 91
(1 + P)(1 + Q) = 191 = 713
1 + P = 1 P = 0 (rejected)
or 1 + P = 7 P = 6
1 + Q = 13 Q = 12
D = 6 + 12 = 18
Individual Events
SI a 1080 I1 a 6 I2 h 4 I3 m 2900 I4 n 39 I5 a 36
b 8 b 2 k 32 x 12 m 78 b 48
c 3 c 7 p 3 y 12.5 p 4 p 4
d 64 d 16 *q 16 n 34.5 q 7 q 6
see the remark
Group Events
SG a 2 G6 p 7 G7 r 2 G8 A 4 G9 C 93 G10 P 10
b 3 q 5 s 7 B 2 n 6 x 9
p 60 r 96 a 5 C 8 S 5000 k 2
1 11
q 136 t 18 p = 0.5 D 5 d 17 S
2 20

SI.1 In the given figure, the sum of the four marked angles is a. Find a.
Sum of interior angles of a quadrilateral = 360
angle sum of four vertices = 4360 = 1440
a = 1440 360 = 1080
180(b 2) = 1080 = 1806
b=8
SI.3 If b5 = 32c, find c.
85 = 32c 215 = 25c
c=3
SI.4 If c = log4 d, find d.
3 = log4 d
d = 43 = 64
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The given figure shows a circle of radius 18 cm, centre O. B
P
If AOB = and the length of arc APB is a cm, find a.
3
O A
a = 18
3
a=6
I1.2 If the solution of the inequality 2x2 ax + 4 < 0 is 1 < x < b, find b.
2x2 6x + 4 < 0
2(x2 3x + 2) < 0
2(x 1)(x 2) < 0
1<x<2
b=2
I1.3 If b(2x 5) + x + 3 5x c, find c.
2(2x 5) + x + 3 5x c
c=7
I1.4 The line through (2, 6) and (5, c) cuts the x-axis at (d, 0). Find d.
They have the same slope
06 76
=
d 2 52
d 2 = 18
d = 16
Individual Event 2
h
I2.1 If the equation 3x2 4x + = 0 has equal roots, find h.
3
= ( 4 ) 4(3) = 0
2 h
3
h=4
I2.2 If the height of a cylinder is doubled and the new radius is h times the original, then the new
Let the original radius be r, the original height be p. Then the new radius is 4r, the new height
is 2p.
(4r)2(2p) = kr2p
k = 32
I2.3 If log10210 + log10k log1056 + log1040 log10120 + log1025 = p, find p.
210 32 40 25
p = log10
56 120
= log10(10425)
=3
p cos A q
I2.4 If sin A = and = , find q.
5 tan A 15
3
sin A =
5
cos A q
=
tan A 15
cos 2 A q
=
sin A 15
1 sin 2 A 1 ( 53 ) 16 q
2
= 3
= =
sin A 5 15 15
q = 16
Remark: A type-writing mistake is found in the original version:
p cos A q
If sin A = and = , find q.
3 tan A 15
p
Using the given condition: sin A = = 1
3
We arrives at the conclusion that A = 180n + 90, where n is an integer.
cos A
So that will be undefined because the denominator becomes undefined.
tan A
As HKMO 1990 Final Sample Individual Event is the same as HKMO 1986 Final Individual
Event, the error is found and corrected.
Individual Event 3
I3.1 The monthly salaries of 100 employees in a company are as shown:
Sa1aries ($) 6000 4000 2500
No. of employees 5 15 80
If the mean salary is $m, find m.
6000 5 + 4000 15 + 2500 80
m=
5 + 15 + 80
290000
= = 2900
100
I3.2 If 8 sin2(m + 10) + 12 cos2(m + 25) = x, find x.
x = 8 sin2 3000 + 12 cos2 2925
= 8 sin2(3608 +120) + 12 cos2(3608 + 45)
2
3
2
= 8 sin 120 + 12 cos 45 = 8

2 2
+ 12 1 = 12
2
2
I3.3 In the figure, AP // CR // BQ, AC = x, CB = 12, AP = 10, B
12
BQ = 15 and CR = y. Find y. C
Reference: 1991 FI5.3 x
15
Draw ADE // PRQ, cutting CR at D, BQ at E respectively. A
APRD, APQE are //-grams y
10
DR = 10 = EQ (opp. sides, //-gram)
CD = y 10, BE = 15 10 = 5
ACD ~ ABE (equiangular) P R Q
(y 10) : 12 = 5 : 24 (ratio of sides, ~s)
y = 12.5 B
C 12
12 y - 10 5
A
E
D 15
10 y
P R Q
I3.4 Define (a, b, c)(p, q, r) = ap + bq + cr, where a, b, c, p, q, r are real numbers.

If (3, 4, 5)(y, 2, 1) = n, find n.
n = 3y 8 + 5
= 3(12.5) 3
= 34.5
Individual Event 4
1 = 12
1 + 3 = 2 2
I4.1 It is known that . If 1 + 3 + 5 + + n = 202, find n.
1 + 3 + 5 = 3 2
1 + 3 + 5 + 7 = 4 2
1 + 3 + 5 + + (2m 1) = m2 = 202
m = 20
n = 2(20) 1 = 39
I4.2 If the lines x + 2y = 3 and nx + my = 4 are parallel, find m.
1 n
=
2 m
1 39
=
2 m
m = 78
I4.3 If a number is selected from the whole numbers 1 to m, and if each number has an equal
p
chance of being selected, the probability that the number is a factor of m is , find p.
39
Let S be the sample space, n(S) = 78
Favourable outcomes = {1, 2, 3, 6, 13, 26, 39, 78}
p 8
=
39 78
p=4
I4.4 A boy walks from home to school at a speed of p km/h and returns home along the same route
24
at a speed of 3 km/h. If the average speed for the double journey is km/h, find q.
q
Let the distance of the single journey be x km.
24 2x
= x x
q 4
+3
24 24
=
q 7
q=7
Individual Event 5
a
I5.1 A die is rolled. If the probability of getting a prime number is , find a.
72
Favourable outcomes = {2, 3, 5}
a 3
= a = 36
72 6
I5.2 In the figure, x = a, y = 44, z = 52 and w = b. Find b.
x + w + y + z = 180 (s in the same segment, s sum of ) x
36 + b + 44 + 52 = 180 w
b = 48
z y
I5.3 A, B are two towns b km apart. Peter cycles at a speed of 7 km/h from A to B and at the same
time John cycles from B to A at a speed of 5 km/h. If they meet after p hours, find p.
p = 48(5 + 7) = 4
I5.4 The base of a pyramid is a triangle with sides 3 cm, p cm and 5 cm. If the height and volume
of the pyramid are q cm and 12 cm3 respectively, find q.
32 + 42 = 52 the triangle is a right-angled triangle (Converse, Pythagoras theorem)
1
Base area = 34 cm2 = 6 cm2
2
1
Volume = 6q cm3 = 12 cm3 q = 6
3
Sample Group Event

Reference: 1983 FG6.3, 1984 FSG.1, 1985 FSI.1
Let the two numbers be x and y.
x + y = 50 and xy = 25
1 1 x+ y
a= + = =2
x y xy
Reference: 1983 FG9.3, 1984 FSG.3, 1985 FI4.1, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
a b
= 1 b = 3
2 3
Reference: 1984FI4.4, 1985 FSI.4, 1987 FG6.2, 1988 FG9.1
p
Each side = cm
3
2
1 p
sin 60o = 100 3
2 3
p = 60
(2)3 2(2)2 + 60(2) + q = 0
q = 136
Group Event 6
G6.1 If 123456789 = a10p where p is a positive integer and 1 a < 10, find p.
123456789 = 1.2345104 6.789103 = a107,
where a = 1.23456.789
1.26.8 = 8.16
1 a < 10
p=7
G6.2 If (p, q), (5, 3) and (1, 1) are collinear, find q.
q 3 3 ( 1)
=
75 5 1
q3=2
q=5
7
G6.3 If tan = , 90 < < 180 and 100 cos = r, find r.
24
In the figure, r2 = 72 + (24)2 (Pythagoras theorem)
P(7, -24)
r = 25 2
r
r = 100 cos 7
24
= 100 N -24 O
25
= 96
G6.4 The average of x, y, z is 10. The average of x, y, z, t is 12. Find t.
x + y + z = 30
x + y + z + t = 48
t = 18
Group Event 7
G7.1 In the figure, QR, RP, PQ are 3 arcs, centres at A, B, C C
respectively, touching one another at R, P, Q. If AR = r, RB = 6,
4
QC = 4, A = 90 , find r. P

Q
AQ = r, CP = 4, BP = 6
AB = r + 6, AC = r + 4, BC = 4 + 6 = 10 6
B
AB2 + AC2 = BC2 A r R
(r + 6)2 + (r + 4)2 = 102
2r2 + 20r 48 = 0
r2 + 10r 24 = 0
(r 2)(r + 12) = 0
r=2
G7.2 M, N are the points (3, 2) and (9, 5) respectively.
If P(s, t) is a point on MN such that MP : PN = 4 : r, find s.
MP : PN = 4 : 2 = 2 : 1
3 1 + 9 2
s= =7
2 +1
G7.3 x2 + 10x + t (x + a)2 + k, where t, a, k are constants. Find a.
Reference: 1984 FI2.4, 1985 FG10.2, 1987 FSI.1, 1988 FG9.3
x2 + 10x + t (x + 5)2 + t 25
a=5
G7.4 If 9p+2 = 240 + 9p, find p.
819p = 240 + 9p
809p = 240
9p = 3
1
p=
2
Group Event 8
In the given multiplication, different letters represent different integers 1 A B C D E
whose possible values are 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. (Reference: 2000 HI8)
3
G8.1 Find A.
G8.2 Find B. A B C D E 1
G8.3 Find C. 1 A B C D 7
G8.4 Find D.
3
E = 7 and the carry digit is 20. A B C D 7 1
3D + 2 7 (mod 10) 1 A B C 5 7
D = 5 and the carry digit is 10
3
A B C 5 7 1
3C + 1 5 (mod 10) 1 A B 8 5 7
C = 8 and the carry digit is 20.
3
A B 8 5 7 1
3B + 2 8 (mod 10) 1 A 2 8 5 7
B = 2 and there is no carry digit.
3
A 2 8 5 7 1
3A 2 (mod 10) 1 4 2 8 5 7
A = 4 and the carry digit is 10.
3
3+1=4
A = 4, B = 2, C = 8, D = 5 4 2 8 5 7 1
Group Event 9
G9.1 7 oranges and 5 apples cost $13. 3 oranges and 4 apples cost $8. 37 oranges and 45 apples
cost $C. Find C.
Let the cost of an orange be $x and the cost of an apple be $y.
7x + 5y = 13 (1)
3x + 4y = 8 (2)
12
4(1) 5(2): 13x = 12 x =
13
17
7(2) 3(1): 13y = 17 y =
13
12 37 + 17 45
C = 37x + 45y = = 93
13
G9.2 There are exactly n values of satisfying the equation (sin2 1)(2 sin2 1) = 0,
where 0 360. Find n.
1
sin = 1,
2
= 90, 270, 45, 135, 225, 315
n=6
G9.3 If S = ab + a b 1 and a = 101, b = 49, find S.
S = (a 1)(b + 1) = 10050 = 5000
G9.4 If d is the distance between the points (13, 5) and (5, 10), find d.
d= (13 5)2 + [5 ( 10)]2 = 17
Group Event 10
G10.1 If b + c = 3 (1), c + a = 6 (2), a + b = 7 (3) and P = abc, find P.
(1) + (2) (3): 2c = 2 c = 1
(1) + (3) (2): 2b = 4 b = 2
(2) + (3) (1): 2a = 10 a = 5
P = 125 = 10
G10.2 The medians AL, BM, CN of ABC meet at G. If the A
area of ABC is 54 cm2 and the area of ANG is x cm2.
Find x.
N M
1
QBL : LC = 1 : 1 area of ABL = 54 cm2 = 27 cm2
2 G
2
QAG : GL = 2 : 1 area of ABG = 27cm2 = 18 cm2 B L
C
3
1
QAN : NB = 1 : 1 area of ANG = 18 cm2 = 9 cm2
2
x=9
3 sin + 5 cos
2 sin + cos
k=
(3sin + 5 cos ) cos
(2 sin + cos ) cos
3 tan + 5
=
2 tan + 1
3 3 + 5
= =2
23 +1
1 1 1 1
G10.4 If S = 1 2
1 2 1 2 L1 2 , find S.
2 3 4 10
Reference: 1999 FIS.4, 2014 FG3.1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
S = 1 1 1 L1 1 + 1 + 1 + L1 +
2 3 4 10 2 3 4 10
1 2 3 9 3 4 5 11
= L L
2 3 4 10 2 3 4 10
1 11 11
= =
10 2 20
Individual Events
SI a 2 I1 a 5 I2 a 125 I3 a 4 I4 a 2 I5 t 8
b 54 b 0 b 15 b 16 b 10 u 135
c 2 c 9 c 3 c 199 c 96 v 45
d 1 d 2 d 16 d 4 d 95 w 70
Group Events
SG s 19 G6 x 8 G7 M 100 G8 M 5 G9 A 60 G10 k 15
n 8 y 25 N 59 N 2 r 3 C 6
1 24
K d 4 x x 170 n 20 R 8
50 5
12
A 200 h S 1 y 5000 x 3240 A 243
5
SI.1 The sum of two numbers is 40, and their product is 20.
Reference: 1983 FG6.3, 1984 FSG.1, 1986 FSG.1
x + y = 40 and xy = 20
1 1 x+ y
a= + = =2
x y xy
SI.2 If b cm2 is the total surface area of a cube of side (a + 1) cm, find b.
Similar Questions: 1984 FI3.2, 1984 FG9.2
a+1=3
b = 632 = 54
SI.3 One ball is taken at random from a bag containing b 4 white balls and b + 46 red balls.
c
If is the probability that the ball is white, find c.
6
There are b 4 = 50 white balls and b + 46 = 100 red balls
50 2
P(white ball) = = c=2
50 + 100 6
Reference: 1984FI4.4, 1986 FSG.3, 1987 FG6.2, 1988 FG9.1
1
d 3 = c 2 sin 60o = 3
2
d=1
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Find a if a = log 5
(125)(625) .
25
5 53 4
a = log5 = log5 55
52
a=5
2
1 1
I1.2 If r + = a 2 and r 3 + 3 = b, find b.
r r
2
1 1 1
r + = r + 2 + 2 = 3 r + 2 = 1
2 2
r r r
1 1 1 1
b = r 3 + 3 = r + r 2 1 + 2 = r + (1 1) = 0
r r r r
3
I1.3 If one root of the equation x + cx + 10 = b is 2, find c.
Put x = 2 into the equation: 8 + 2c + 10 = 0
c = 9
I1.4 Find d if 9d+2 = (6489 + c) + 9d. (Reference: 1986 FG7.4)
819d = 6480 + 9d
809d = 6480 9d = 81
d=2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Find a in the following sequence: 1, 8, 27, 64, a, 216,
13, 23, 33, 43, a, 63,
a = 53 = 125
I2.2 In Figure 1, AC = CD and CAB ABC = (a 95). C
If BAD = b, find b. (Reference: 2010 HG3)
Let CAD = = CDA (base s isosceles )
CAB = b + D
CAB ABC = 30 ABC = b + 30
BAD + ABC = CDA (ext. of )
A B
b + b + 30 = b = 15
I2.3 A line passes through the points (1, 1) and (3, b 6). If the y-intercept of the line is c, find c.
b6=9
c9 9 1
=
0 3 3 ( 1)
c=3
I2.4 In Figure 2, AB = c + 17, BC = 100, CD = 80. D
If EF = d, find d. (Reference: 1989 HG8, 1990 FG6.4)
Let BF = x, then FC = 100 x. A
BEF ~ BDC (equiangular)
CEF ~ CAB (equiangular) E
x 100 100 x 100
= (1), = (2)
d 80 d 3 + 17
100 1 1 B C
(1) + (2): = 100 + d = 16 F
d 80 20
Individual Event 3
o
1
I3.1 The acute angle formed by the hands of a clock at 2:15 is 18 + a . Find a.
2
Reference: 1984 FG7.1, 1987 FG7.1, 1989 FI1.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
1 1
From 2:00 to 2:15, the hour-hand had moved 360 = 7.5
12 4
The minute hand had moved 90
18.5 + a = 90 (60 + 7.5) = 22.5
a=4
I3.2 If the sum of the coefficients in the expansion of (x + y)a is b, find b.
Put x = 1 and y = 1, then b = (1 + 1)4 = 16
I3.3 If f (x) = x 2, F(x, y) = y2 + x and c = F(3, f(b)), find c.
Reference: 1990 HI3, 2013 FI3.2, 2015 FI4.3
f (b) = 16 2
= 14
c = F(3, 14)
= 142 + 3
= 199
I3.4 x, y are real numbers. If x + y = c 195 and d is the maximum value of xy, find d.
x+y=4
y=4x
xy = x(4 x) = (x 2)2 + 4 d
d=4
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If the lines x + 2y + 3 = 0 and 4x ay + 5 = 0 are perpendicular to each other, find a.
Reference: 1983 FG9.3, 1984 FSG.3, 1986 FSG.2, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
1 4
= 1
2 a
a=2
I4.2 In Figure 1, ABCD is a trapezium with AB parallel to DC and D
ABC = DCB = 90. If AB = a, BC = CD = 8 and b
AD = b, find b. A 8
Draw a line segment AE // BC, cutting DC at E.
BAE = 90 = AEC (int. s, AE // BC) a
ABCE is a rectangle
AE = 8, CE = a = 2 (opp. sides, //-gram) B 8 C
DE = 8 a = 6 D
b2 = 82 + 62 = 100 (Pythagoras theorem on ADE)
b = 10
b 8
A E
a
B C
8
A
b
I4.3 In Figure 2, BD = , DE = 4, EC = 3. If the area of AEC is 24
2
and the area of ABC is c, find c.
ABD, ADE and ACE have the same height.
5+4+3 B
D E
The area of ABC = c = 24 = 96 C
3
I4.4 If 3x3 2x2 + dx c is divisible by x 1, find d.
3 2 + d 96 = 0
d = 95
Individual Event 5
I5.1 If 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + + t = 36, find t.
1
t(t + 1) = 36
2
t = 8 or 9 (rejected)
2
I5.2 If sin u = and 90 < u < 180, find u.
t
1
sin u =
2
u = 135
I5.3 In Figure 1, ABC = 30 and AC = (u 90) cm. A
If the radius of the circumcircle of ABC is v cm, find v.
135 90 (u 90) cm
= 2v (Sine formula)
sin 30o
v = 45
B C
I5.4 In Figure 2, PAB is formed by the 3 tangents of the circle
R
with centre O. If APB = (v 5) and AOB = w, find w.
B
APB = 40
O
OT PA, OS AB, OR PB (tangent radius)
ROT = 360 4090 90 = 140 (s sum of polygon) S
P A T
ROB = SOB, TOA = SOA (tangent from ext. pt.)
AOB = 140 2 = 70
w = 70

SG.1 If a*b = ab + 1, and s = (2*4)*2, find s.
2*4 = 24 + 1 = 9
s = (2*4)*2 = 9*2
= 92 + 1 = 19
SG.2 If the nth prime number is s, find n.
2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19
n=8
1 1 1 1
SG.3 If K = 1 1 1 L1 , find K in the simplest fractional form.
2 3 4 50
Reference: 1984 FG9.1, 1986 FG10.4
1 2 3 49 1
K = L =
2 3 4 50 50
SG.4 If A is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of radius 10, find A.
E D
Reference: 1984 FG10.1, 1989 FI3.3
10 O
BC = 20 cos 45 = 10 2
( )2
45
A = 10 2 = 200 B C
Group Event 6
G6.1 The average of p, q, r is 4. The average of p, q, r, x is 5. Find x.
p + q + r = 12
p + q + r + x = 20
x=8
G6.2 A wheel of a truck travelling at 60 km/h makes 4 revolutions per second.
y
If its diameter is m, find y.
6
60000 50
60 km/h = m/s = m/s
3600 3
y 50
4 =
6 3
y = 25
d
G6.3 If sin(55 y) = , find d.
x
d 1
sin 30 = =
8 2
d=4
G6.4 In the figure, BA AC and AN BC. If AB = 3, AC = d,
A
AN = h, find h.
Reference: 1992 FI5.3 d
3
h
BC2 = 32 + 42 (Pythagoras theorem)
BC = 5
B N C
1 1
Area of ABC = 5h = 34
2 2
12
h=
5
Group Event 7
783 + 22 3
G7.1 Let M = . Find M.
78 2 78 22 + 22 2
Similar questions: 1984 FG6.1
783 + 22 3
M=
78 2 78 22 + 22 2
=
(78 + 22)(782 78 22 + 222 )
782 78 22 + 22 2
= 100
G7.2 When the positive integer N is divided by 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2, the remainders are 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1
respectively. Find the least value of N.
N + 1 is divisible by 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2.
The L.C.M. of 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2 is 60.
The least value of N is 59.
G7.3 A man travels 10 km at a speed of 4 km/h and another 10 km at a speed of 6 km/h. If the
average speed of the whole journey is x km/h, find x.
20 24
x = 10 10 =
4
+ 6 5
G7.4 If S = 1 + 2 3 4 + 5 + 6 7 8 + + 1985, find S.
S = 1 + (2 3 4 + 5) + (6 7 8 + 9) + + (1982 1983 1984 + 1985) = 1
Group Event 8
M, N are positive integers less than 10 and 258024M8 9 = 2111110N 11.

G8.1 Find M.
11 and 9 are relatively prime 258024M8 is divisible by 11
2 + 8 + 2 + M (5 + 0 + 4 + 8) is divisible by 11
M 5 = 11k
M=5
G8.2 Find N.
2111110N is divisible by 9
2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + N = 9t
N=2
G8.3 A convex 20-sided polygon has x diagonals. Find x.
x = C220 20
20 19
= 20
2
= 170
G8.4 If y = ab + a + b + 1 and a = 99, b = 49, find y.

y = (a + 1)(b + 1)
= (99 + 1)(49 + 1)
= 5000
Group Event 9
G9.1 The lengths of the 3 sides of LMN are 8, 15 and 17 respectively.
If the area of LMN is A, find A.
82 + 152 = 64 + 225 = 289 = 172
LMN is a right-angled triangle
8 15
A= = 60
2
G9.2 If r is the length of the radius of the circle inscribed in N
LMN, find r. E
Reference: 1989 HG9 17
r 8
Let O be the centre and the radius of the circle be r, which O r D
r
touches the triangle at C, D and E.
L 15 C M
OC LM, OD MN, OE LN (tangent radius)
ODMC is a rectangle (which consists of 3 right angles)
OC = r = OD (radii)
OCMD is a square.
CM = MD = r (opp. sides, rectangle)
LC = 15 r, ND = 8 r
LE = LC = 15 r, NE = ND = 8 r (tangent from ext. pt.)
LE + NE = LN
15 r + 8 r = 17
r=3
G9.3 If the rth day of May in a year is Friday and the nth day of May in the same year is Monday,
where 15 < n < 25, find n.
3rd May is Friday
17th May is Friday
20th May is Monday
n = 20
G9.4 If the sum of the interior angles of an n-sided convex polygon is x, find x.
x = 180(20 2) = 3240 (s sum of polygon)
Group Event 10
G10.1 The sum of 3 consecutive odd integers (the smallest being k) is 51. Find k.
k + k + 2 + k + 4 = 51
k = 15
G10.2 If x + 6x + k (x + a) + C, where a, C are constants, find C.
2 2

x2 + 6x + 15 (x + 3)2 + 6
C=6
p q r p
G10.3 If = = = 2 and R = , find R.
q r s s
p
R=
s
p q r
=
q r s
= 23 = 8
3n 9 n +1
G10.4 If A = , find A.
27 n 1
3n 9 n +1
A=
27 n 1
3n 32 n + 2
=
33n 3
= 36 = 243
Individual Events
1
SI a 900 I1 a 10 I2 a (=0.5) I3 a 7 I4 a 15 I5 a 80
2
b 7 b 1 b 5 b 6 b 8 b 4
1
c 2 c 4 c 10 x (=0.5) c 4 N 10
2
d 9 d 5 d 15 y 1 d 12 x 144
Group Events
1
SG a 2 G6 p 10 G7 p 75 G8 M 1 G9 x G10 A 50
100
*136 1
b q 15 q (=0.5) N 6 A 52 S 2
see the remark
2
c 6 r 24 a 2 R 8 m 501 n 7
d 7 s 27 m 14 Y 2 P 36 d 5
SI.1 In the given diagram, the sum of the three marked angles is a. Find a.
Reference: 1987 FSG.3, 1989 FSI.1
a = 1080 180 = 900
a = 900 = 180(b 2)
b=7
SI.3 If 8b = c21, find c.
87 = c21
221 = c21
c=2
2 = c = logd 81 and d > 0
d2 = 81
d=9
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If 100a = 352 152, find a.
100a = (35 + 15)(35 15) = 5020 = 1000
a = 10
I1.2 If (a 1)2 = 34b, find b.
92 = 34b
4b = 4
b=1
I1.3 If b is a root of x2 + cx 5 = 0, find c.
Put x = 1 into the equation: 1 + c 5 = 0
c=4
I1.4 If x + c is a factor of 2x2 + 3x + 4d, find d.
x + 4 is a factor
d = 5
Individual Event 2
1 1
I2.1 If , are roots of x2 10x + 20 = 0, find a, where a = .

+ = 10, = 20
1 1 10 1
a= = = =
20 2
I2.2 If sin = a (0 < < 90), and 10 cos 2 = b, find b.
1
sin =
2
= 30
b = 10 cos 60 = 5
I2.3 The point A(b, c) lies on the line 2y = x + 15. Find c.
Put x = b = 5, y = c into the line: 2c = 5 + 15
c = 10
I2.4 If x2 cx + 40 (x + k)2 + d, find d.
Reference: 1985 FG10.2, 1986 FG7.3, 1987 FSI.1, 1988 FG9.3
x2 10x + 40 (x 5)2 + 15
k = 5, d = 15
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is the remainder when 2x3 3x2 + x 1 is divided by x + 1, find a.
a = 2(1)3 3(1)2 1 1 = 7
I3.2 If b cm2 is the total surface area of a cube of side (8 + a) cm, find b.
Similar Questions: 1984 FG9.2, 1985 FSI.2
8+a=1
b=6
I3.3 One ball is taken at random from a bag containing b + 4 red balls and 2b 2 white balls.
If x is the probability that the ball is white, find x.
There are b + 4 = 10 red balls and 2b 2 = 10 white balls
1
x=
2
I3.4 If sin = x (90 < < 180) and tan( 15) = y, find y.
1
sin =
2
= 150
y = tan( 15) = tan 135 = 1
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In figure 1, DE // BC. If AD 4, DB 6, DE 6 and BC a, find a. A
ADE ~ ABC (equiangular) 4
a 10 D E
(ratio of sides, ~s) 6
6 4 6
a = 15 B C
a
a b
I4.2 is an acute angle such that cos = . If tan = , find b.
17 15 17
b
2 2 2
b = 17 15
b=8
15
3 2
I4.3 If c = b , find c.
c3 = 82 = 64 = 43
c=4
I4.4 The area of an equilateral triangle is c 3 cm2. If its perimeter is d cm, find d.
Reference: 1985 FSI.4, 1986 FSG.3, 1987 FG6.2, 1988 FG9.1
d
Each side = cm
3
2
1 d
sin 60 c 3 4 3
2 3
d = 12
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In Figure 2, find a.
100 + (180 a) + 50 + 110 = 360 (sum of ext. of ) 100 a
a = 80
50
110
a
I5.2 If b = log 2 , find b.
5
b
2 = 16
b=4
I5.3 A piece of string, 20 m long, is divided into 3 parts in the ratio of b 2 : b : b + 2. If N m is
the length of the longest portion, find N.
b2:b:b+2=2:4:6=1:2:3
3
N = 20 = 10
1 2 3
I5.4 Each interior angle of an N-sided regular polygon is x. Find x.
180 10 2
x= = 144
10
Sample Group Event

SG.1 The sum of 2 numbers is 20, their product is 10. If the sum of their reciprocals is a, find a.
Reference: 1983 FG6.3, 1985 FSI.1, 1986 FSG.1
x + y = 20 and xy = 10
1 1 x y
a= = =2
x y xy
SG.2 12 1 = 02, 22 1 = 13, 32 1 = 24, , b2 1 = 135137. If b > 0, find b.
Reference: 1983 FI10.1, 1991 FI2.1
135137 = (136 1)(136 + 1) = 1362 1
b = 136
Remark The original question is:
12 1 = 02, 22 1 = 13, 32 1 = 24, , b2 1 = 135137, find b.
b = 136 or 136, there are 2 different answers!
SG.3 If the lines x + 2y + 1 = 0 and cx + 3y + 1 = 0 are perpendicular, find c.
Reference: 1983 FG9.3, 1985 FI4.1, 1986 FSG.2, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
1 c
1 c = -6
2 3
SG.4 The points (2, 1), (0, 1), (c, d) are collinear. Find d.
Reference: 1984 FG7.3, 1986FG6.2, 1987 FG7.4, 1989 HG8
d 1 1 1

6 02
d=7
Group Event 6
213 113
G6.1 If p = , find p. (Similar questions: 1985 FG7.1)
212 2111 112
p=
213 113
=
21 11212 2111 112 = 10
212 2111 112 212 2111 112
G6.2 If p men can do a job in 6 days and 4 men can do the same job in q days, find q.
10 men can do a job in 6 days.
1 man can do a job in 60 days
4 men can do a job in 15 days q = 15
G6.3 If the qth day of March in a year is Wednesday and the rth day of March in the same year is
Friday, where 18 < r < 26, find r. (Reference: 1985 FG9.3, 1987 FG6.4, 1988 FG10.2)
24th March is Friday r = 24
G6.4 If a*b = ab + 1, and s = (3*4)*2, find s. (Reference: 1985 FSG.1)
3*4 = 34 + 1 = 13
s = (3*4)*2 = 13*2 = 132 + 1 = 27
Group Event 7 (1988 Sample Group Event)

G7.1 The acute angle between the 2 hands of a clock at 3:30 a.m. is p. Find p.
Reference: 1985 FI3.1 1987 FG7.1, 1989 FI1.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
At 3:00 a.m., the angle between the arms of the clock = 90
1 1
From 3:00 a.m. to 3:30 a.m., the hour-hand had moved 360 = 15.
12 2
p = 180 90 15 = 75
G7.2 In ABC, B C p. If q sin A, find q.
B C 75, A 180 75 75 = 30
1
q = sin 30 =
2
G7.3 The 3 points (1, 3), (a, 5), (4, 9) are collinear. Find a.
Reference: 1984 FSG.4, 1986FG6.2, 1987 FG7.4, 1989 HG8
95 93
=2
4 a 4 1
a=2
G7.4 The average of 7, 9, x, y, 17 is 10. If m is the average of x + 3, x + 5, y + 2, 8, y +18, find m.
7 9 x y 17
= 10
5
x + y = 17
x 3 x 5 y 2 8 y 18
m=
5
2 x y 36
= = 14
5
Group Event 8
In the addition shown, each letter represents a different digit ranging from S E N D
zero to nine. It is already known that + M O R E
S = 9, O = zero, E = 5. M O N E Y
Find the numbers represented by
(i) M, (ii) N, (iii) R, (iv) Y
Consider the thousands digit and the ten thousands digits.
0 S, M 9, 9 + M = 10M + 0 or 9 + M + 1 = 10M + 0
M = 1 and there is no carry digit.
Consider the hundreds digit. 5 + 0 + 1 = N
N = 6 and there is a carry digit.
For the tens digit. 6 + R = 10 + 5
R = 9 (same as S, rejected) or 6 + R + 1 = 10 + 5
R=8
There is a carry digit in the unit digit
D + 5 = 10 + Y, (D, Y) = (7, 2) Y = 2
M = 1, N = 6, R = 8, Y = 2
Group Event 9
1 1 1 1
G9.1 If x = 1 1 1 1 , find x in the simplest fractional form.
2 3 4 100
Reference: 1985 FSG.3, 1986 FG10.4
1 2 3 99 1
x = =
2 3 4 100 100
G9.2 The length, width and height of a rectangular block are 2, 3 and 4 respectively. Its total
surface area is A, find A.
Similar Questions: 1984 FI3.2, 1985 FSI.2
A = 2(23 + 34 + 24) = 52
G9.3 The average of the integers 1, 2, 3, ... , 1001 is m. Find m.
m=
1
1 2 3 1001
1001
1 1 1001 1001
= = 501
1001 2
G9.4 The area of a circle inscribed in an equilateral triangle is 12. If
P is the perimeter of this triangle, find P.
Let the radius be r and the centre be O.
O
r2 = 12
r =2 3 r
30
P
The length of one side of the equilateral triangle is .
3
P
= 2r cot 30
3
= 2 3r = 12
P = 36
Group Event 10
G10.1 If A is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of diameter 10,
find A. E D
Let the square be BCDE. 10
BC = 10 cos 45 = 5 2
2
A = 5 2 = 50 45
B C
1 1
G10.2 If a = 2, and S = a 3 3 , find S.
a a
Reference: 1998 HG1
2
1 1
a 2 =a 2 = 4 2 = 2
2
a a
1
S = a3 3
a
1 1
= a a 2 1 2
a a
= 2(2 1) = 2
nn 1
Number of diagonals = C2n n = n 14
2
n2 3n 28 = 0
(n 7)(n + 4) = 0
n=7
G10.4 If d is the distance between the 2 points (2, 3) and (1, 7), find d.
d= 2 12 3 7 2 = 5
Individual Events
no. of
I1 a 1800 I2 I3 a 10 I4 routes 6 I5 a x2 + 2x + 1
b 12 b 10 b 2 b 2
c 8 missing c 30 c 3 c 2
1600
d d 90 angle 57 d 1000
3
Group Events
5
G6 a R G7 sum 360 G8 AC 15 m G9 a G10 A 3578
4
b 80 SABC 5 cm2 x 60 step 2 N 10
1 1
c a3 + 3 18 2x 1 c 6 OAB 56
2 a
8 144
d 6 d 220 Probability X 46
9 343
Individual Event 1
I.1.1 In the following figure, the sum of the marked angles is a, find a.
Angle sum of a triangle = 180, angles sum of 2 triangles = 360
Angle at a point = 360, angles sum at 6 vertices = 6360 = 2160
a = 2160 360 = 1800
I.1.2 The sum of the interior angles of a regular b-sided polygon is a. Find b.
180(b 2) = 1800
b = 12
I1.3 Find c, if 2b = c4.
212 = (23)4 = 84
c=8
b
I1.4 Find d, if = k and c : d = k : 100.
c
12 3
k= =
8 2
3
8:d= : 100
2
8 : d = 3: 200
200 1600
d= 8=
3 3
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a = 1.8 5.0865 + 1 0.0865 1.8, find a.
a = 1.8 (5 + 0.0865) + 1 0.0865 1.8 = 9 + 1 = 10
I3.2 In the diagram shown, OH = OK = a units and OABC is a H
rectangle. AC = b units. What is b?
b = OB = OH = a = 10 B
A
O C K
I3.3 In the expression shown, what is c when it is expanded to the x0
(b2)
term with x as the numerator? x1
b 2 = 10 2 = 8 2 +
x2
T(1) = 2, T(2) = 6, T(3) = 10, this is an arithmetic sequence with 6+
x3
first term = 2, common difference = 4. 10 +
LLLLL
T(8) = 2 + (8 1)4 = 30 14 +
L
x (b 2 )
c+
O
I3.4 As shown a rabbit spends c minutes in travelling from A
to B along half circle. With the same speed, it spends d
minutes in travelling from A B D along half circles.
What is d?
Radius of the smaller circle = 1 O A(1,0) D
Radius of the larger circle = 2 B
(0,0) (3,0)
Circumference of the smaller semi-circle A B =
Circumference of the larger semi-circle B D = 2
+ 2
Speed = = d = 3c = 90
c d
Individual Event 4
I4.1 The figure shows a board consisting of nine squares. A counter originally Y
on square X can be moved either upwards or to the right one square at a
time. By how many different routes may the counter be moved from X to
Y? X
Reference: 1998 HG6, 2000 HI4, 2007 HG5
By adding numbers on the right as shown (Pascal triangle), the number of 1 3 6
different routes = 6 1 2 3
1 1 1

I4.2 Given 2a = b tan . Find b.
3
12 = b 3
b = 2
pq
I4.3 Given that p * q = , find c if c = (a + b) * (b a).
p
4+8
c = (6 2)*(2 6) = 4*(8) = =3
4
I4.4 A wire of c cm is bent to form a sector of radius 1 cm. What is the 3 cm
angle of the sector in degrees (correct to the nearest degree)?
Let the angle at centre be radians.
2 + 1 = 3 B C
o O 1 cm
180
= 1 radian = 57.3 = 57 (correct to the nearest degree)

Individual Event 5
I5.1 If a(x + 1) = x3 + 3x2 + 3x + 1, find a in terms of x.
a(x + 1) = (x + 1)3
a = (x + 1)2 = x2 + 2x + 1
I5.2 If a 1 = 0, then the value of x is 0 or b, what is b?
a = 1 1 = (x + 1)2
x2 + 2x = 0 x = 0 or 2 b = 2
I5.3 If pc4 = 32, pc = b2 and c is positive, what is the value of c?
pc4 = 32 (1)
pc = (2)2 = 4 (2)
(1)(2): c3 = 8
c=2
I5.4 P is an operation such that P(AB) = P(A) + P(B).
P(A) = y means A = 10y. If d = AB, P(A) = 1 and P(B) = c, find d.
P(A) = 1 A = 101 = 10
P(B) = c B = 102 = 100
d = AB = 10100 = 1000
Group Event 6
G6.1 The table shows the results of the operation * on P, Q, * P Q R S
R, S taken two at a time. P Q R S P
Let a be the inverse of P. Find a. Q R S P Q
P*S = P = S*P, Q*S = Q = S*Q, R*S = R = S*R, R S P Q R
S*S = S S P Q R S
The identity element is S.
P*R = S = R*P, the inverse of P is R.
G6.2 The average of and is 105, the average of , and

is b. Find b.
( + )2 = 105 + = 210 (1)
180 + = (adj. s on st. line, ext. of )

= + 180 (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): = 210 180 = 30
b = (210 + 30)3 = 80
G6.3 The sum of two numbers is 10, their product is 20. The sum of their reciprocal is c. What is c?
Reference 1984 FSG.1, 1985 FSGI.1, 1986 FSG.1
x + y = 10 (1)
x y = 20 (2)
1 1 x + y 10 1
c= + = = =
x y xy 20 2
G6.4 It is given that 90 = 9.49, to 2 decimal places.
If d < 7 0.9 < d + 1, where d is an integer, what is d?
7 0.9 = 0.7 90 = 0.79.49 (correct to 2 decimal places)
= 6.643
d=6
Group Event 7
G7.1 Find 3 + 6 + 9 + + 45.
The above is an arithmetic series with first term = 3, common difference =3, no. of terms =15.
S15 = (3 + 45) = 360
15
2
G7.2 In the figure shown, ACDE is a square and AC = BC, A E
ACB = 90. Find the area of ABC if the area of ACDE is
10 cm2.
ABC CED ECA (S.A.S.)
1
The area of ABC = area of ACDE = 5 cm2
2 B D
C
1 1
G7.3 Given that a + = 3 . Evaluate a 3 + 3 .
a a
Reference: 1996 FI1.2, 1998 FG5.2, 2010 FI3.2
2
1
a + = 9
a
1
a2 + 2 = 7
a
1 1 1
a 3 + 3 = a + a 2 1 + 2
a a a
= 3(7 1) = 18
n
1 1 1 1 1
G7.4 Given that = + + + L + .
y =1 y 1 2 3 n
10 10
1 1
Find y 2 y 1 . (Express your answer in fraction.)

y =3 y =3
10 10
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
y 2 y 1 = 1 + 2 + 3 + L + 8 2 + 3 + L + 9

y =3 y =3
1 8
= 1 =
9 9
Group Event 8
G8.1 Peter is standing at A and John is at C. The A
distance between B and D is 12 m. What is the
7m D
shortest distance between John and Peter?
B 12 m 2m
Reference: 1991 HG9, 1993 HI1, 1996 HG9 C
AC = (7 + 2)2 + 122 m = 15 m
G8.2 The following figure shows a part of the graph
y = sin 3x. What is the x-coordinate of P?
sin 3x = 0
3x = 180
x = 60
G8.3 If f (x) = x2, then express f (x) f (x 1) in terms of x.

f (x) f (x 1) = x2 (x 1)2 = 2x 1
G8.4 If mnp, nmp, mmp and nnp are numbers in base 10 composed of the digits m, n and p, such
that: mnp nmp = 180 and mmp nnp = d. Find d.
100m + 10n + p (100n + 10m + p) = 180
100(m n) 10(m n) = 180
mn=2
d = mmp nnp
= 100m + 10m + p (100n + 10n + p)
= 110(m n)
= 220
Group Event 9
3
G9.1 If sin = , a = tan 2 + 1 , find a.
5
9 16
cos2 = 1 sin2 = 1 =
25 25
sin 2 259 9
tan2 = = =
cos 2 16
25 16
9 5
a = tan 2 + 1 = +1 =
16 4
1 1
G9.2 Examine the following proof carefully: To prove > .
8 4
Steps
1 3>2
1 1 1
2 Multiply both sides by log , then 3 log > 2 log
2 2 2
3 2
1 1
3 log > log
2 2
3 2
1 1
4 >
2 2
1 1
>
8 4
Which step is incorrect?
1
Step 2 is incorrect because log < 0.
2
1 1 1
Multiply both sides by log , then 3 log < 2 log .
2 2 2
G9.3 If the lines 2y + x + 3 = 0 and 3y + cx + 2 = 0 are perpendicular, find the value of c.
Reference: 1984 FSG.3, 1985 FI4.1, 1986 FSG.2, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
Product of slopes = 1
1 c
= 1
2 3
c = 6
G9.4 There are 4 red balls and 3 black balls in a box. If 3 balls are chosen one by one with
replacement, what is the probability of choosing 2 red balls and 1 black ball?
2
4 3 144
P(2 red, 1 black) = 3 =
7 7 343
Group Event 10
G10.1 1 1 = 0 2
2
22 1 = 1 3
32 1 = 2 4
42 1 = 3 5

A2 1 = 3577 3579
If A > 0, find A.
Reference: 1984 FSG..2, 1991 FI2.1
A2 1 = (3578 1) (3578 + 1)
A = 3578
G10.2 The sides of an N-sided regular polygon are produced to form
a star. If the angle at each point of that star is 108, find
N. (For example, the star of a six-sided polygon is given as
shown in the diagram.)
Consider an isosceles triangle formed by each point. The
vertical angle is 108.
180o 108o
Each of the base angle = = 36
2 6-sided regular polygon.
36N = 360 (sum of ext. s of polygon) N = 10
G10.3 A, P, B are three points on a circle with centre O.
P
If APB = 146, find OAB.
146
Add a point Q as shown in the diagram. B
AQB = 180 146 = 34 (opp. s cyclic quad.)
AOB = 234 = 68 ( at centre twice at ce) A
O
OA = OB = radii
OAB = OBA (base s isos. )
180o 68o Q
= = 56 (s sum of )
2
G10.4 A number X consists of 2 digits whose product is 24. By reversing the digits, the new number
formed is 18 greater than the original one. What is X? (Reference: 1991 FG6.1-2)
Let the tens digit of X be a and the units digit be b.
X = 10a + b, reversed number = 10b + a
24
ab = 24 b = (1)
a
10b + a (10a + b) = 18 b a = 2 (2)
24
Sub. (1) into (2): a=2
a
24 a2 = 2a
a2 + 2a 24 = 0
(a 4)(a + 6) = 0
b=6
X = 46
2016 Heat Individual (Sample Paper) answer

I1 237 I2 201499 I3 90 I4 30 I5 7
293 21
I6 11 I7 23 I8 10 I9 (= 8 ) I10 1016064
34 34
I11 4 I12 2012 I13 730639 I14 13 I15 81.64
(2) (1): (m + n)(m n) = 31
m + n = 31 and m n = 1
m = 16, n = 15
x = 152 + 12 = 237
I2
Given that 10 2015 102
= 0.000


n times
10 201500 = 0.000

01

n times
n = 201500 1 = 201499
Reference: 2002 HI6
AC2 = 102 + 112 21110 cos B ...............(1)
AC2 = 52 + 142 2514 cos D ...................(2)
(1) = (2): 221 220 cosB = 221 140 cosD (3)
cos D = cos B
(3): (220 + 140) cos B = 0 B = 90 = D
1 1
= 11 10 5 14 = 90
2 2
a
In ABD, AD =
tan
AD 3a
In ACD, AC = =
tan 30 tan

3a
= 3a
tan
3
tan =
3
= 30
10(10) + 15(5) + 25(5) + 40(10) = 700 Class A uses 7 $100 notes.
26 = 64 = 135 1 1 mod 13; 212 1 mod 13
2011 = 12167 + 7
22011 = 212167 + 7 = (212)16727 27 262 12 2 11 mod 13
2202512 = 220524 = 102054 = 6251020
A 0 1+1=2 1+1=2 3+3=6 5+5=10
B 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
C 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
a b
the value of . Reference: 1996 HG8, 1996FG7.1, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2, 2012 HI6
b a
a and b are prime number and all prime number except 2, are odd.
a = 2, b = 17 (or a = 17, b = 2)
a b 17 2 293 21
= = (= 8 )
b a 2 17 34 34
1
4
1 9
a2 = 2 + =
4 4
9 3 1 16
a3 = + + =
4 2 4 4
Claim: an =
n 12 for n 1
4
Suppose ak =
4
1 k 1 k 1 1 k 1 2k 1 1 k 1 1
2 2 2
ak+1 = ak + a k = + = =
4 4 2 4 4 4
2016 2
a2015 = = 10082 = 1016064
4
= (14k + 4)2 4(48) (k2 4) = 22[(7k + 2)2 48k2 + 192] = 22(k2 + 28k + 196) = [2(k + 14)]2
14k 4 2k 14 7k 2 k 14 8k 16 6k 12
2
8 6
= ,= 2

2 k 4
2
=
k 4
2
= 2 =
k 4 k 2
=
k 4 k 2
.

k 2 = 1, 2, 4, 8 and k + 2 = 1, 2, 3, 6
k = 3, 4, 6, 10 and k = 1, 0, 1, 4
k = 4 only
8 6
k 2 and k 2 x = or
k 2 k 2
y = (x + 1)(x + 4)(x + 2)(x + 3) + 2013 = (x2 + 5x + 4)(x2 + 5x + 6) + 2013
= (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 24 + 2013 = (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 25 + 2012
= (x2 + 5x + 5)2 + 2012 2012
multiple of 5?
2015 2014 1612 1611 5 2014 4 1611
= C 22015 C 21612 = = 403
2 2 2 2
= 403 5 1007 2 1611 = 403(5035 3222) = 4031813 = 730639
Reference 2010 FG4.2 Q(7, 9)
Consider the following problem: 8
Let P(2, 3) and Q(7, 9) be two points. R(x, 0) is a variable point

on x-axis. To find the minimum sum of distances PR + RQ. 6

2 2
4
If we reflect P(2, 3) along x-axis to P(2, 3), M(2, 0) is the foot P(2, 3)
of perpendicular, 2
then PMR PMR (S.A.S.)

M(2, 0) 5
7 2 9 3
R(x, 0)
y
2 2
= 13
-2
The minimum value of x 2 4 x 13 x 2 14 x 130 is 13. P'(2, -3)

Reference: 2005 HI5
AB = 14 + 7 = 21, BC = 10 + 10 = 20
AB2 + BC2 = 212 + 202 = 841 = 292 = AC2
1 1 20 7
20 a sin a 7 cos
2 2 2
20a sin + 7a cos = 140 (1)
1 1 10 21
21 a cos a 10 sin
2 2 2
21a cos + 10a sin = 210 (2)
2(2) (1): 35 a cos = 280
a cos = 8 (3)
3(1) (2): 50 a sin = 210
21
a sin = (4)
5
2
21 2041 16
(3) + (4) : BF = a = 8 + =
2 2 2 2 2
(= 81 = 81.64)
5 25 25
Answers: (2015-16 HKMO Heat Events) Created by: Mr. Francis Hung Last updated: 12 March 2016
1 8 2 1007 3 45 4 12 5 5985
15-16 6 14 7 200 8 46 9 14 10 32
Individual 1 17
11 12 13 522 14 20 15 1
2016 3
1 63
1 2 75 cm2 3 4 6 5 7
15-16 2 2 2011
Group 281 8
6 672 7 72 8 386946 9 = 21 10 4062241
13 13
Individual Events
I1 0.1252016(22017)3
Find the value of 0.1252016(22017)3.
2016 2016
0.125 (2 ) =
2016 2017 3 1
23
2017 1
= 8 8 = 8
8 8
x1 x 2 x 2 x3 x3 x 4 x 2014 x 2015 x 2015 x 2016 1
I2 x1
x1 x 2 x3 x 2015 x 2016 x 2016
x1 x 2 x 2 x3 x3 x 4 x 2014 x 2015 x 2015 x 2016 1
Given the equations , find
x1 x 2 x3 x 2015 x 2016 x 2016
the value of x1.
x1 + x2 = x2 + x3 x1 = x3
x2 + x3 = x3 + x4 x2 = x4
x3 + x4 = x4 + x5 x3 = x5

Inductively, we can prove that x1 = x3 = = x2015; x2 = x4 = = x2016
Let a = x1 + x3 + + x2015 = 1008x1; b = x2 + x4 + + x2016 = 1008x2.
Sub. the above results into equation (2): 1008(x1 + x2) = x2016 = x2
1008 = x2
x1 + x2 = 1 x1 = 1 1008 = 1007
I3 x 2016 x
How many x are there so that 2016 x is an integer?
45 = 2025 > 2016 x 2016 > 1936 = 44
2016 x = 0, 1, 2, or 44.
There are 45 different x to make 2016 x an integer.
I4 xy xy (x + 1)2 + (y 2)2 = 50
If x, y are integers, how many pairs of x, y are there which satisfy the equation
(x + 1)2 + (y 2)2 = 50?
The integral solutions to a2 + b2 = 50 are (a, b) = (5, 5), (7, 1) or (1, 7).
The number of pairs of integral solutions are 223 = 12.
I5 63 2016 63 63
The sum of 63 consecutive integers is 2016, find the sum of the next 63 consecutive integers.
The sum of next 63 consecutive integers = 2016 + 6363 = 5985
I6 8 8 A 8
A
Given that the mean, median, range and the only mode of 8 integers are also 8. If A is the
largest integer among those 8 integers, find the maximum value of A.
Suppose the 8 integers, arranged in ascending order, are a b c d e f g A.
abcd e f g A
= 8 a + b + c + d + e + f + g + A = 64 (1)
8
d e
= 8 d + e = 16 (2)
2
a = A 8 (3)
Sub. (2) and (3) into (1): A 8 + b + c + 16 + f + g + A = 64 2A + b + c + f + g = 56 (4)
Median = 8 d 8 e
Mode = 8 d = e = 8
In order to maximize A and satisfy equation (4), b, c, f, g must be as small as possible.
f = g = 8, b = A 8, c = A 8; sub. these assumptions into (4):
2A + 2A 16 + 8 + 8 = 56
The maximum value of A = 14.
I7 1 500 2
How many 2s are there in the numbers between 1 to 500?
1 to 9, 2 appears once. 10 to 99, 2 appears in 12, 20, 21, 22, , 29, 32, , 92: 19 times.
100 to 199, 2 appears 20 times, 200 to 299, 2 appears 120 times,
300 to 399, 2 appears 20 times, 400 to 499, 2 appears 20 times.
2 appears 200 times.
I8 16 1140 a 240 a
A number in base 16 is 1140. The same number in base a is 240, what is a?
114016 = 163 + 162 + 416 = 441610 = 240a = 2a2 + 4a
a2 + 2a 2208 = 0
(a 46)(a + 48) = 0
I9 P (6, 240) P 16 P
The polar coordinates of P are (6, 240). If P is translated to the right by 16 units, find the
distance between its image and the pole.
Before translation, the rectangular coordinates of P is (6 cos 240, 6 sin 240) = (3, 3 3 ).
After translation, the rectangular coordinates of P is (13, 3 3 ).
2
The distance from the pole is 132 3 3 = 14 units
I10 ABC BD CE AC AB A
BD CE BD = 8CE = 6ABC

As shown in Figure 1, BD and CE are the medians of the sides AC
and AB of ABC respectively, and BD CE. Given that BD = 8,
CE = 6, find the area of ABC. E D
8
6

Figure 1 B C
Suppose BD and CE intersect at the centriod G.

A
Then G divides each median in the ratio 1 : 2.
16 8
CG = 4, GE = 2; BG = , GD = .
3 3
1 16
SBCE = 6 = 16 sq. units
2 3 8
E D
3
SABC = 2 SBCE = 32 sq. units
2
G
16
3 4
B C
I11 100[log(63x)][log(32x)] + 1 = 0
It is known that the equation 100[log(63x)][log(32x)] + 1 = 0 has two distinct real roots and
. Find the value of .
100[log(63x)][log(32x)] + 1 = 0 100(log 63 + log x)(log 32 + log x) + 1 = 0
100 (log x)2 + 100(log 32 + log 63)x + log 32 log 63 + 1 = 0
This is a quadratic equation in log x. The two distinct real roots are log and log .
100log 32 log 63 1 1
log = log + log = sum of roots = = log =
100 32 63 2016
I12 ABC CDEF FGH ABC //
B C
FGHAB = 42GH = 40EF = 6 FG = 8 ABC
D
FGH 41 BC
As shown in Figure 2, ABC, CDEF and FGH are straight lines, A
ABC // FGH, AB = 42, GH = 40, EF = 6 and FG = 8. Given that
the distance between ABC and FGH is 41, find BC.
Let the mid-point of AB be M. H
Draw the perpendicular bisector MN of AB cutting GH at N. E
AM = MB = 21 and AB MN. Figure 2
F G
HNM = AMN = 90 (alt. s, AB // GH)
MN must pass through the centre O of the circle. C
B
GN = NH = 20 ( from centre bisect chord)
Let ON = x, then OM = 41 x. Join OA, OH. Let the radius be r. 21 M D
2 2 2 41-x
21 + (41 x) = r (1) (Pythagoras theorem on AMO) A
2 2 2
20 + x = r (2) (Pythagoras theorem on HNO) r
2 2 O r
(1) = (2): 441 + 1681 82x + x = 400 + x
x = 21 x H
Sub. x = 21 into (2): r2 = 202 + 212 r = 29 E 20
N
FGFH = FEFD (intersecting chords theorem) 6
F 8G
848 = 6(6 + ED)
ED = 58 = 2r = diameter of the circle
O is the mid-point of ED.
It is easy to show that OMC ~ ONF (equiangular)
MC NF
(corr. sides, ~s)
OM ON
21 BC 8 20

41 21 21
17
BC =
3
I13 AB C
(a) ACB 3
(b) BAC 4
(c) BCA 5
(d) CBA
ABC
Let A, B and C be three digits. The number formed by these three digits has the following
properties:
(a) ACB is divisible by 3;
(b) BAC is divisible by 4;
(c) BCA is divisible by 5;
(d) CBA has an odd number of factors.
Find the 3-digit number ABC.
From (a), A + B + C = 3m (1), where m is a positive integer.
From (b), 10A + C = 4n (2), where n is a positive integer.
From (c), A = 0 or 5 (3)
If A = 0, then ACB is not a three digit number. rejected
Sub. A = 5 into (2), C = 2 or 6
From (d), CBA has an odd number of factors CBA is a perfect square (4)
Sub. A = 5, C = 6 into (1): B = 1, 4 or 7
CBA = 615, 645 or 675, all these numbers are not perfect square, rejected.
Sub. A = 5, C = 2 into (1): B = 2, 5 or 8
CBA = 225, 255 or 285
Of these numbers, only 225 is a perfect square
A = 5, B = 2, C = 2
ABC = 522
I14 ABCD E AD D F C
F DC DF : FC = 1 : 2FA
H
ABCD
FB EC G H E G
FGH
As shown in Figure 3, ABCD is a parallelogram. E is the
mid-point of AD and F is a point on DC such that DF : FC A B
= 1 : 2. FA and FB intersect EC at G and H respectively.

Area of ABCD Figure 2
Find the value of .
Area of FGH
Reference: 1998 HG5
D k F 2k C
H
E G
I 3k A 3k B
Produce CE to meet BA produced at I. Let DF = k, CF = 2k.

AB = 3k (opp. sides //-gram)
CDE IAE (DE = EA, given, A.A.S.)
IA = DC = 3k (corr. sides, s)
CFG ~ IAE (equiangular)
CG : GI = CF : IA = FG : GA = 2 : 3 (1) (corr. sides, ~s)
CFH ~ IBH (equiangular)
CH : HI = CF : IB = FH : HB = 2k : 6k = 1 : 3 (2) (corr. sides, ~s)
Let IC = 20m. By (1), CG = 8m, GI = 12m.
By (2), CH = 5m, HI = 15k
GH = CG CH = 8m 5m = 3m
CH : HG = 5m : 3m = 5 : 3
Let SFGH = 3p, then SCFH = 5p (FGH and CFH have the same height)
SCFG = 3p + 5p = 8p
3
SCAG = 8 p = 12p (CFG and CAG have the same height & by (1))
2
SCAF = 8p + 12p = 20p
1
SDAF = 20 p = 10p (DAF and CAF have the same height)
2
SCAD = 10p + 20p = 30p
ACD CAB (A.S.A.)
SCAB = 30p
SABCD = 30p + 30p = 60p
Area of ABCD 60 p
= = 20
Area of FGH 3 p
I15 {an} an+2 = an+1 an a2 = 1 a3 = 1 a2016

Given a sequence {an}, where an+2 = an+1 an. If a2 = 1 and a3 = 1, find the value of a2016.
a4 = a3 a2 = 1 (1) = 2
a5 = a4 a3 = 2 1 = 1
a6 = a5 a4 = 1 2 = 1
a7 = a6 a5 = 1 1 = 2
a8 = a7 a6 = 2 (1) = 1 = a2
a9 = a8 a7 = 1 (2) = 1 = a3
a10 = a9 a8 = 1 (1) = 2 = a4
The sequence repeats the cycle (1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 2) for every 6 terms.
2016 = 6336
a2016 = a2010 = = a6 = 1
Group Events
G1 1
1
1 2
2
1 1
3 4
3 4
2016
At the beginning, there was 1 litre of alcohol in bottle A and bottle B is an empty bottle.
1
First, pour all alcohol from bottle A to bottle B; second, pour of the alcohol from bottle B
2
1 1
back to bottle A; third, pour of the alcohol from bottle A to bottle B; fourth, pour of
3 4
the alcohol from bottle B back to bottle A, . After the 2016th pouring, how much alcohol
was left in bottle A?
No. of times Amount of alcohol in A Amount of alcohol in B
1 0 1
2 1 1 1
1 =
2 2 2
3 1 2 1 1 2
= 1 =
2 3 3 3 3
4 1 1 2 3 1
1 = =
2 2 3 4 2
5 1 4 2 2 3
= 1 =
2 5 5 5 5
6 1 1 3 5 1
1 = =
2 2 5 6 2
Let the amount of alcohol in A and B be an and bn after n trails.
1 n 1 n
Claim: For n > 1, a2n = b2n = , a2n1 = , b2n1 = .
2 2n 1 2n 1
Proof: Mathematical induction on n. n = 2, 3, proved by the above table.
1
Suppose a2k = b2k = for some positive integer k > 1.
2
1
a2k+1 =
2k
=
k
=
k 1 1 ; b = 1 k = k 1 = k 1
2 2k 1 2k 1 2k 1 1 2k 1 2k 1 2k 1 1
2k+1
k 1 k
Suppose a2k1 = , b2k1 = for some positive integer k > 1.
2k 1 2k 1
k 2k 1 1 1 1
b2k = = ; b2k = 1 =
2k 1 2k 2 2 2
By the principal of mathematical induction, the claim is true for all positive integer n>1.
1
a2016 = a2(1008) =
2
G2 ABCP AB Q CP A
BQ CPPQ = 6 cmCQ = 9 cm
AQ = 13 cmABC 13 cm
Figure 1 shows ABC, P is the mid-point of AB C 9 cm Q 6 cm P
and Q is a point on CP. It is known that BQ CP,

PQ = 6 cm, CQ = 9 cm and AQ = 13 cm. Find the
area of ABC. B
Produce QP to D so that PD = QP = 6 cm A
AP = PB (given that P is the mid-point of AB)
APD = BPQ (vert. opp. s)
APD BPQ (S.A.S.) 13 cm
ADP = BQP = 90 (corr. s, s) C
9 cm Q 6 cm P 6 cm D
AD = 13 12 cm = 5 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
2 2
QB = AD = 5 cm (corr. sides, s)
1 75 B
SBCP = 15 5 cm2 = cm2
2 2
75 2
SACP = SBCP = cm (They have the same base and the same height)
2
75
SABC = 2 cm2 = 75 cm2
2
Method 2 (Provided by Mr. Mak Hugo Wai Leung)
Using coordinate geometry method, we denote C as the A(21, y)
origin, then Q = (9, 0), P = (15, 0). We may let B =
(9, y), where y > 0. Since P is the midpoint of A and B,
the coordinates A = (21, y). Q(9,0) P(15, 0)
C(0, 0)
Now AQ = 13 gives y 0 21 9 13 ,
2 2
solving yields y = 5 (since y > 0). B(9, -y)

Therefore, A = (21, 5), B = (9, 5), C = (0, 0), and the
area of triangle ABC is given by:
0 0
1 9 5
cm2 = 45 105 cm2 = 75 cm2
1
2 21 5 2
0 0
G3 a1, a2, a3, Sn = a1 + a2 + + an n

1
Sn = 2 an n 1 a2016
2
Consider a sequence of numbers a1, a2, a3, . Define Sn = a1 + a2 + + an for any positive
1
integer n. Find the value of a2016 if Sn = 2 an n 1 .
2
n
Claim: an = n
2
1
Prove by induction. S1 = a1 = 2 a1 1 a1 =
2
1 1 1 1 2
S2 = a1 + a2 = 2 a2 + 2a2 = 2 a2 = =
2 2 2 2 4
m
Suppose am = m is true for m = 1, 2, , k, where k is a positive integer.
2
1 2 3 4 k 1
Sk+1 = + + + + + k + ak+1 = 2 ak+1 k (1)
2 4 8 16 2 2
3 4 k 1
2Sk+1 = 1 + 1 + + + + k 1 + 2ak+1 = 4 2ak+1 k 1 (2)
4 8 2 2
1 1 1 1 k 1
2Sk+1 Sk+1 = 1+ + + + + k 1 k + ak+1 = 2 ak+1 k
2 4 8 2 2 2
1
1 k
2 k 2a 2 1 2 2 k 2a 2 1 ak+1 = k 1
k 1 k 1
1
1 2k 2k 2k 2k 2k 2 k 1
2
By the principle of mathematical induction, the formula is true for all positive integer n.
2016 32 63 63
a2016 = 2016 = = 2011
2 32 2 2011
2
G4 x y log x + log y = log(2x y) + 1 (x, y)
If x and y are positive integers that satisfy log x + log y = log(2x y) + 1, find the number of
possible pairs of (x, y).
Reference: 2002 HG9, 2006 FI3.3, 2006 FG2.4, 2012 FI4.2
log(xy) = log(2x y) + log 10 xy = 10(2x y)
20x 10y xy = 0
200 + 20x y(10 + x) = 200 (20 y)(10 + x) = 200
10 + x 20 y x y
1 200 rejected
2 100 rejected
4 50 rejected
5 40 rejected
8 25 rejected
10 20 rejected
20 10 10 10
25 8 15 12
40 5 30 15
50 4 40 16
100 2 90 18
200 1 190 19
There are 6 pairs of (x, y) satisfying the equation.
G5 AOB = 15XY OA PQR A

Y
OB OP = 1 OR = 3 X
s = PX + XQ + QY + YR s O 15
P B
Q R
In Figure 2, AOB = 15. X, Y are points on OA, P, Q, R
are points on OB such that OP = 1 and OR = 3. Figure 2
If s = PX + XQ + QY + YR, find the least value of s.
Reference: 1999 HG9 E
Reflect O, P, Q, R, B along OA to give O, S, T, U, C.
N
Reflect O, X, Y, A along OC to give O, V, W, D. D
Reflect O, S, T, U, C along OD to give O, L, M, N, E. M W C

U
By the definition of reflection, 3
AOC = COD = DOE = AOB = 15, BOE = 60 L

V T
A
Y
OS = OL = OP = 1, OT = OM = OQ, OU = ON = OR = 3 15 S X
15
OV = OX, OW = OY 15
15
O B
s = PX + XQ + QY + YR P Q R
1
= PX + XT + TW + WN
s is the least when P, X, T, W, N are collinear.
In this case, by cosine rule,
s2 = 12 + 32 213 cos 60 = 7
s= 7
G6 y = px2 + qx + r
(1) y x = 2016
(2) x AB AB = 4
(3) y = 10 CD CD = 16
q
Let y = px2 + qx + r be a quadratic function. It is known that
(1) The axis of symmetry of y is x = 2016.
(2) The curve cuts the x-axis at two points A and B such that AB = 4 units.
(3) The curve cuts the line y = 10 at two points C and D such that CD = 16 units.
Find the value of q.
y = p(x 2016)2 + k
Let , be the roots of y = p(x 2016)2 + k = 0
p(x2 4032x + 20162) + k = 0
px2 4032px + 20162p + k = 0
2016 2 p k k
+ = 4032, = = 20162 +
p p
| | = 4 ( ) = 16
2
( + )2 4 = 16
k
(4032)2 4(20162 + ) = 16
p
k = 4p
y = p(x 2016)2 4p = px2 4032px + (20162 4)p
Let r, s be the roots of px2 4032px + (20162 4)p = 10
2014 2018 p 10 10
r + s = 4032, rs = = 20142018 +
p p
|r s| = 16 (r + s) 4rs = 256
2
10
40322 4(20162 4 + ) = 256
p
40
16 = 256
p
40
= 240
p
1
p =
6
1
q = 4032p = 4032 = 672
6
G7 912 15
The lengths of the three medians of a triangle are 9, 12 and 15. Find the area of the triangle.
Let the triangle be ABC, with medians AD = 15, BE = 12, CF = 9. A
The centriod G divides each median in the ratio 1 : 2.
AG = 10, GD = 5, BG = 8, GE = 4, CG = 6, GF = 3.
Produce GD to H so that GD = DH = 5.
BHCG is a parallelogram. (diagonals bisect each other)
CH = 8, BH = 6 (opp. sides of //-gram) F 10 E
4
In BGH, BG + BH = 6 + 8 = 36 + 64 = 100 = 10 = GH
2 2 2 2 2 2
3
GBH = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem) G
8
SBGH = BH BG = 6 8 = 24
1 1 6
5
2 2
24 B
SBDG = SBHG = = 12 (equal base, same height) D C
2 5
SCDG = SBDG = 12 (equal base, same height) 6 8
SBCG = 12 + 12 = 24
3 24 H
SBGF = SBCG = = 12 (different bases, same height)
6 2
SBCF = 12 + 24 = 36
SACF = SBCF = 36 (equal base, same height)
SABC = 36 + 36 = 72
Method 2 (Inspired by Mr. Mak Hugo Wai Leung)
mm ma m mb m mc (*), where ma, mb and mc are
4
Claim: Area of triangle =
3
m mb mc
the lengths of the 3 medians from vertices A, B and C respectively, and m = a .
2
The centriod G divides each median in the ratio 1 : 2. A
2 2 2
AG = ma , BG = mb , CG = mc .
3 3 3
1
Produce GD to H so that GD = DH = ma . F
3 E
BHCG is a parallelogram (diagonals bisect each other) G 2m
3 c
HC = BG, BH = CG (opp. sides of //-gram)
CGH is similar to a larger triangle whose sides are B 2m C
3 aD 2m
ma, mb, mc. By Heron formula,
2
3 b
2 H
SCGH = mm ma m mb m mc = SBGH
3
mm ma m mb m mc
1 4
SBCG = SBCH = S BGCH =
2 9
mm ma m mb m mc
4
SACG = SABG =
9
mm ma m mb m mc = mm ma m mb m mc
4 4
SABC = 3
9 3
m = 12 9 12 15 = 18, m ma = 18 9 = 9, m mb = 18 12 = 6, m mc = 18 15 = 3
SABC = 43 189 63 = 72
G8
(1) 11
(2) 1

(2016 2016 = 111111000002)

If the binary representation of a positive integer has the following properties:
(1) the number of digits = 11,
(2) the number of 1s = 6 and the number of 0s = 5,
then the number is said to be a good number.
(For example, 2016 is a good number as 2016 = 111111000002.)
Find the sum of all good numbers.
Let the 11-digit binary number be X = abcdefghijk , where a = 1 and all other digits are either
0 or 1. If X is a good number, then, discard the leftmost digit, there are 5 1s and 5 0s.
10 9 8 7 6
The number of good numbers is C510 = = 252
1 2 3 4 5
Starting from rightmost digit to 29-digit, each digit has 126 1s and 126 0s
Sum of all good numbers is 252210 + 12629 + 12628 + + 126
211 1
= 126 210 126
2 1
= 126(1024 + 2047)
= 1263071 = 386946
G9 ab c f (x) = x(x a)(x b)(x c) x a
b c x = (x a) + (x b) + (x c) f (x) = 900
Let the three sides of a triangle are of lengths a, b and c where all of them are integers. Given
that f (x) = x(x a)(x b)(x c) where x is an integer of size greater than a, b and c.
If x = (x a) + (x b) + (x c) and f (x) = 900, find the sum of the lengths of the three
altitudes of this triangle.
a, b and c are the sides of an right-angled triangle with integral values.
(a, b, c) = (3, 4, 5), (6, 8, 10), (5, 12, 13), (9, 12, 15), (8, 15, 17),
3 4 6 8 5 12 9 12 8 15
Area of the triangle = , , , , , = 6, 24, 30, 54, 60,
2 2 2 2 2
x = (x a) + (x b) + (x c) a + b + c = 2x = perimeter of the triangle
By Herons formula, area of the triangle = x x a x b x c = f x = 900 = 30
a = 5, b = 12, c = 13
60
The three altitudes of the triangle are: 12, 5, .
13
60 281
Sum of all altitudes = 12 + 5 + = .
13 13
14 2015 4 2016 4
G10
12 2015 2 2016 2
14 2015 4 2016 4
Find the value of 2 .
1 2015 2 2016 2
Let x = 2015.5, then 2015 = x 0.5, 2016 = x + 0.5
14 2015 4 2016 4 1 x 0.5 x 0.5
4 4
=
12 2015 2 2016 2 1 x 0.52 x 0.52

1 2 x 4 60.5 x 2 0.54
2

=

1 2 x 2 0.52
1
1 2 x 4 3x 2
= 8
1
1 2x2
2
9
2 x 4 3x 2
= 8
3
2x2
2
16 x 24 x 2 9
4
44 x 2 3
=
4 x 3
2 2
44 x 3
= 2
4x2 3
=
4
=
2 2015.5 3
2
4
4031 3
2
=
4
=
4000 31 3
2
4
16000000 248000 961 3
=
4
16248964
= = 4062241
4
Method 2 (provided by Mr. Mak Hugo Wai Leung)
In general, we have
4

1 x 4 x 1 2 x 4 2 x 3 3 x 2 2 x 1
x2 x 1 2
= x2 + x + 1
1 x x 1
2 2
=

2 x x 1
2
=
x x 1
2
Substituting x = 2015 yields

14 2015 4 2016 4
= 1 + 2015 + 20152 = 1 + 2015 + (2000 +15)2
1 2015 2016
2 2 2
= 2016 + 4000000 + 60000 + 225

= 2016 + 4060225
= 4062241
1. Suppose there are three different parallel lines, L1, L2 and L3. Construct an equilateral triangle
with only one vertex lies on each of the three parallel lines.
L1L2 L3

Reference:
http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Geometry/construction/trian
gle/Equilateral_tri_on_3_parallel_lines.pdf
L1
L2
L3
() A P Y B
2
(1) AB Y 5
R
Y AB CD X EF R E 3 F
Z
5
(2) XYZ 4 1
2
(3) ZR
C Q X D
(4) Z ZR AB P CD Q
(5) PR QR
PQR
PQ ZR AB YR ()
PYRZ (=)
RPZ = RYZ ()
= XYZ = 60
PQ ZR CD RX ()
QXRZ (=)
RQZ = RXZ ()
= YXZ = 60
PRQ = 180 60 60 = 60 ()
PQR
()() 1
(1) AB P
P AB H K
H P Y K
(2) H HP J A 2
B
4
K KP L
J 2 L
JPL = 60 PJ EF X 2
CD R PL CD Q E 60 2 F
(3) XQ X 3
5
(4) X XYYXQ = 60 AB C D
R Q
Y

(5) YQ
XYQ
HPJ KPL ()
HPJ = 60 = KPL ()
JPL = 60 ()
PRQ = 60 = PQR (AB // CD )
PQR
QXY = 60 = QPY ()
PXQY ()
XYQ = XPQ = 60 ()
XQY = HPX = 60 ()
XYQ
()()
H
(1) AB P 1 1
PEG PFH P
A B
(2) GH CD Q PQ 60 x 2
(3) QPR = 60 EF R 3
3
2
(4) QR E y
R F
PQR 4
C 1 Q D
1
G

QPF = xPFE = y
PEF PGH
PE = PGPF = PH ()
EPG = 60 = FPH ()
EPF = 60 + GPF = GPH
PEF PGH (S.A.S.)
PEF = PHG = y ()
RPF = 60 + x = QPH
PF = PH ()
RPF QPH (A.S.A.)
PR = PQ ()
PQR ()
PQR = PRQ ()
= (180 60)2 ()
= 60
PQR
H
AB // CD // EF
A
P
B
F
R
E Q
C D
2. Given four points A, B, C and D as shown in the figure below, construct a square which passes
through these four points.
ABC D
D
A
2
A 1 D
S P
5
C
B C
R B 3 Q
The construction steps are as follows:

(1) Join AD and extend AD to both ends longer.
(2) Construct a line through C and perpendicular to AD which intersect AD produced at P.
(3) Construct a line through B and perpendicular to PC which intersect PC produced at Q.
(4) Use Q as centre and QP as radius to draw an arc, cutting QB produced at R.
(5) Construct a line through R and perpendicular to DA which intersect DA produced at S.
Then PQRS is the required square.
Proof: By construction, SPQ = PQR = PSR = 90
QRS = 360 90 90 90 = 90 (s sum of polygon)
PQRS is a rectangle
By step (4), PQ = QR = radii of the arc.
PQRS is a square.
Remark: A, B, C and D may lie outside the square.
1 730639 2 201499 3 22 4 232 5 1016064

14-15
36
Individual 6 32 7 126 8 1 9 13 10
55
31 3 3
1 2 3 4 4 18 5 15
14-15 3747900 2
Group 6 2014
6 140 7 8 454 9 2 14 10
23 2015
Individual Events
multiple of 5?
2015 2014 1612 1611 5 2014 4 1611
= C 22015 C 21612 = = 403
2 2 2 2
= 403 5 1007 2 1611 = 403(5035 3222) = 4031813 = 730639
Given that 10 2015
102
I2 = 0.000


n times
201500
10 = 0.000

01

n times
n = 201500 1 = 201499
I3 Let x be the measure of an interior angle of an n-sided regular polygon, where x is an integer,
how many possible values of n are there?
If x is an integer, then each exterior angle, 360 x, is also an integer.
Using the fact that the sum of exterior angle of a convex polygon is 360.
360
Each exterior angle = , which is an integer.
n
n must be an positive integral factor of 360.
n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 24, 30, 36, 40, 45, 60, 72, 90, 120, 180, 360
However, n = 1 and n =2 must be rejected because the least number of sides is 3.
There are 22 possible value of n.
I4 As shown in the figure, EGB = 64,
A + B + C + D + E + F = ?
reflex BGF = reflex CGE = 180 + 64 = 244
Consider quadrilateral ABGF,
A +B +reflex BGF +F = 360 ( sum of polygon)
Consider quadrilateral CDEG,
C +D +E+reflex CGE = 360 ( sum of polygon)
Add these two equations,
A + B + C + D +E +F = 720 2(244) =232
1
4
1 9
a2 = 2 + =
4 4
9 3 1 16
a3 = + + =
4 2 4 4
Claim: an =
n 12 for n 1
4
Suppose ak =
4
1 k 1 k 1 1 k 1 2k 1 1 k 1 1
2 2 2
ak+1 = ak + a k = + = =
4 4 2 4 4 4
2016 2
a2015 = = 10082 = 1016064
4
I6 As shown in the figure, ABCD is a convex quadrilateral and
AB + BD + CD = 16. Find the maximum area of ABCD.
Let AB = a, BD = b, CD = c, ABD = , BDC =
Area of ABCD = area of ABD + area of BCD
1 1
= ab sin bc sin
2 2
1 1
ab bc , equality holds when = 90, = 90
2 2
= ba c = b16 b
1 1
2 2
1 b 16 b
2
(A.M. G.M., equality holds when b = 8, a + c = 8)

2 2
= 32
The maximum area of ABCD = 32
I7 Let x, y, z > 1, p > 0, logx p = 18, logy p = 21 and logxyz p = 9. Find the value of logz p.
Reference: 1999 FG1.4, 2001 FG1.4
log p log p log p
= 18, = 21, =9
log x log y log xyz
log x 1 log y 1 log x log y log z 1
, ,
log p 18 log p 21 log p 9
log x log y log z 1 1 log z 1

log p log p log p 18 21 log p 9
log z 1
=
log p 126
log p
logz p = = 126
log z
1 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7

4029 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
1 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7

2014 2015 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
1 1 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7
= 1
2015 2014 2014 2015 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
2 2014 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7
= 1
2015 2 2014 2 2014 2 2015 2 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
4 2014 3 4 2014 3 8 2014 7
= 1
2015 4 2014 4 2014 4 2015 4 20148 20158
8 2014 7 8 2014 7
= 1= 1
20158 20148 20158 20148
Consider the following problem: Q(7, 9)
Let P(2, 3) and Q(7, 9) be two points. R(x, 0) is a variable point 8
on x-axis.

2 2
If we reflect P(2, 3) along x-axis to P(2, 3), M(2, 0) is the foot 4
of perpendicular, P(2, 3)
then PMR PMR (S.A.S.) 2
y 7 22 9 32 = 13
M(2, 0) 5
R(x, 0)
The minimum value of x 2 4 x 13 x 2 14 x 130 is 13.
-2
P'(2, -3)
I10 B, H and I are points on the circle. C is a point outside the circle. BC is tangent to the circle at
B. HC and IC cut the circle at D and G respectively. It is given that HDC is the angle bisector
area of BDH
of BCI, BC = 12, DC = 6 and GC = 9. Find the value of .
area of DHIG
CHCD = BC2 H I
6CH = 122
CH = 24 G
DH = 24 6 = 18 9
Let BCD = = GCD ( HDC is the angle bisector) D6
S BCD 12 BC CD sin 12 4 12 C
(1) B
S CDG 12 GC CD sin 9 3
Consider BCD and BDH
They have the same height but different bases.
S BDH DH 18
3 (2)
S BCD CD 6
Consider CDG and CIH
DCG = ICH (common s)
CDG = CIH (ext. , cyclic quad.)

CGD = CHI (ext. , cyclic quad.)
CDG ~ CIH (equiangular)
2 2
S CIH CH 24 64

S CDG CG 9 9
S 64 9 55
DHIG
S CDG 9 9
S 9
CDG (3)
S DHIG 55
area of BDH SBCD SBDH S CDG 4 9 36
(1)(2)(3): = = 3 =
area of DHIG SCDG SBCD SDHIG 3 55 55
Group Events
1 1 1 1
G1 Find the value of .
1860 1865 1865 1870 1870 1875 2010 2015
Reference: 2010 HI3
1 A B
Let
r r 5 r r 5
Then A(r + 5) + Br 1
1
Put r = 0, then A =
5
1
Put r = 5, then B =
5
1 1 1 1

1860 1865 1865 1870 1870 1875 2010 2015
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
=
5 1860 1865 1865 1870 1870 1875 2010 2015
1 1 1 31
= =
5 1860 2015 3747900
G2 Given an equilateral triangle ABC with each side of length 3 and P is an interior point of the
triangle. Let PX, PY and PZ be the feet of perpendiculars from P to AB, BC and CA
respectively, find the value of PX + PY + PZ. (Reference 1992 HG8, 2005 HG9)
Let the distance from P to AB, BC, CA be h1, h2, h3 respectively. A
1 1 1 1 9 3
3h1 3h2 3h3 =area of ABC = 32 sin 60
2 2 2 2 4
3 3 P
PX + PY + PZ = h1 + h2 + h3 =
2
B C
G3 The coordinates of P are ( 3 + 1, 3 + 1). P is rotated 60
anticlockwise about the origin to Q. Q is then reflected along the
y-axis to R. Find the value of PR2. Reference: 2007 HI10
Let the inclination of OP be .
3 1
tan = = 1 = 45
3 1
Inclination of OQ = 45 + 60 = 105
Angle between OQ and positive y-axis = 105 90 = 15
Inclination of OR = 90 15 = 75
POR = 75 45 = 30

OP = OR = 3 1 12 12 = 6 2
Apply cosine rule on POR
PR2 = 6 2 6 2 2 6 2 6 2 cos 30
2 2
= 6 2 2 12 2 2 = 8 4 3 2 3
3
2
=4
b2
G4 Given that a2 + + 9 ab 3b, where a and b are real numbers. Find the value of ab.
2
Reference: 2005 FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2009 FG1.4, 2011 FI4.3, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 FI1.1
4a2 + 2b2 + 36 4ab 12b
(4a2 4ab + b2) + (b2 + 12b + 36) 0
(2a b)2 + (b + 6)2 0
2a b = 0 and b + 6 = 0
b = 6 and a = 3
ab = 18
G5 Given that the equation x 2 15 x 58 2 x 2 15 x 66 has two real roots. Find the sum of
the roots.
Let y = x2 + 15x
(y + 58)2 = 4(y + 66)
y2 + 116y + 3364 = 4y + 264
y2 + 112y + 3100 = 0
(y + 62)(y + 50) = 0
x2 + 15x + 62 = 0 or x2 + 15x + 50 = 0
= 225 248 < 0 or = 225 200 > 0
The first equation has no real roots and the second equation has two real roots
Sum of the two real roots = 15
G6 Given that the sum of two interior angles of a triangle is n, and the largest interior angle is
30 greater than the smallest one. Find the largest possible value of n.
Let the 3 angles of the triangle be x, y and x 30, where x y x 30 (1)
x + y + x 30 = 180 (s sum of )
y = 210 2x (2)
Sub. (2) into (1): x 210 2x x 30
x 70 and 80 x
80 x 70 (3)
n = x + y = x + 210 2x by (2)
x = 210 n (4)
Sub. (4) into (3): 130 n 140
The largest possible value of n = 140
G7 Four circles with radii 1 unit, 2 units, 3 units and r units are
touching one another as shown in the figure. Find the value of r.
Let the centre of the smallest circle be O and the radius be r. Let
the centres of the circles with radii 2, 3, 1 be A, B and C
respectively. AB = 3 + 2 = 5, AC = 2 + 1 = 3, BC = 3 + 1 = 4
AC2 + BC2 = 32 + 42 = 25 = AC2
ABC is a with C = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
OA = r + 2, OB = r + 3, OC = r + 1
Let the feet of drawn from O to BC and AC respectively.
Let CQ = x, CP = y; then AQ = 3 x, BP = 4 y.
In OCQ, x2 + y2 = (r + 1)2 (1) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OAQ, (3 x)2 + y2 = (r + 2)2 (2) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OBP, x2 + (4 y)2 = (r + 3)2 (3) (Pythagoras theorem)
1
(2) (1): 9 6x = 2r + 3 x = 1 r (4)
3
1
(3) (1): 16 8y = 4r + 8 y = 1 r (5)
2
2 2
1 1
Sub. (4), (5) into (1): 1 r 1 r r 1
2 B
3 2
2 1 1
1 r r 2 1 r r 2 1 2r r 2
3 9 4
23 2 11
r r 1 0 4-y
36 3 r+ 3
23r2 + 132r 36 = 0 P O
(23r 6)(r + 6) = 0 r+ 2
y r+ 1
6
r= or 6 (rejected) x Q 3-x A
23 C
Method 2 We shall use the method of circle inversion to solve this problem.
Lemma 1 In the figure, a circle centre at N, with
D
5
radius touches another circle centre at F, with
6
6
radius externally. ME is the common tangent of
5
the two circles. A third circle with centre at P touches
the given two circles externally and also the line ME.
EF is produced to D so that DE = 6. Join DP.
O lies on NM, Y, I lies on FE so that NMOP, PIFE,
NYFE. Prove that
30
(a) the radius of the smallest circle is ; 6
121
(b) ME = 2;
501840
(c) DP =
121 6
5 5
Proof: Let the radius of the smallest circle be a. 6 F
5 6 5 6 N Y
Then PN = + a, PF = + a, NM = , FE =
6 5 6 5
O P I
5 6 6 5 11
NO = a, FI = a, FY = =
6 5 5 6 30 M E
5 5 10a
In PNO, OP2 = ( + a)2 ( a)2 = (Pythagoras theorem)
6 6 3
6 6 24a
In PIF, PI2 = ( + a)2 ( a)2 = (Pythagoras theorem)
5 5 5
In NYF, NY2 + FY2 = NF2 (Pythagoras theorem) (OP + PI)2 + FY2 = NF2
2
10a 24a 11
2
5 6
2

3 5 30 6 5

2 2 2 2
10 24 50 72 5 2 6 2 11 2
a 4 a 4 a 4
3 5 15 a 4
15 15
242 30
a 4 a =
15 121
10a 24a 11 2 11 2 30
ME = OP + PI = = a = =2
3 5 15 15 11
30 696
DI = DE IE = 6 =
121 121
24a 24 30 12
PI = = =
5 5 121 11
In DPI, DI2 + PI2 = DP2 (Pythagoras theorem)
2 2
696 12
DP
2
121 11
501840 501840
DP2 = 2
DP =
121 121
Lemma 2 Given a circle C with centre at O and radius r.
A
A
C P1 O
O P O P O P
P1
B B
Figure 1 Figure 3
Figure 2 Figure 4
P and P1 are points such that O, P, P1 are collinear.
If OPOP1 = r2, then P1 is the point of inversion of P respect to the circle C. (Figure 1)
P is also the point of inversion of P1. O is called the centre of inversion.
If P lies on the circumference of the circle, then OP = r, OP1 = r, P and P1 coincides.
If OP < r, then OP1 > r; if OP > r, then OP1 < r; if OP = 0, then OP1 = ; OP = , OP1 = 0.
If OP < r and APB is a chord, then the inversion of APB is the arc AP1B; the inversion of the
straight line AB is the circle AP1B which has a common chord AB. (Figure 2)
If OP > r, the inversion of a line (outside the given circle) is another smaller circle inside the
given circle passing through the centre O. (Figure 3)
If OP = 0, the inversion of a line through the centre is itself, the line AB. (Figure 4)
c6 c10
c1
A
A c3
c7
O c
O
c2 O
O c9
B
B Figure 7
Figure 6
Figure 5
Figure 8
Given another circle C1 which intersects the original circle at A and B, but does not pass
through O. Then the inversion of C1 with respect to the given circle is another circle C2
passing through A and B but does not pass through O. (Figure 5)
Given another circle C3 which intersects the original circle at A and B, and passes through O.
Then the inversion of C3 with respect to the given circle is the straight line through A and B.
(Figure 6)
Given a circle C6 outside but does not intersect the original circle. The inversion of C6 respect
to the given circle is another circle C7 inside but does not pass through O. Conversely, the
inversion of C7 is C6. (Figure 7)
Given a concentric circle C9 with the common centre O inside the given circle C. Then the
inversion of C9 is another concentric circle C10 outside C. Conversely, the inversion of C10 is
C9. (Figure 8)
c C
c14 O
c c16 P
O O P C c21 c22
P O P
c12
c19 Figure 12
Figure 10
Figure 9 Figure 11
Given a circle C12 inside the given circle C but does not intersect the original circle, and
passes through O. Then the inversion of C12 with respect to the given circle is the straight line
outside C. (Figure 9)
Given a circle C14 inside the given circle C passes through O and touches C internally at P.
Then the inversion of C14 with respect to the given circle is the tangent at P. Conversely, the
inversion of the tangent at P is C14. (Figure 10)
Given a circle C16 inside the given circle C which encloses O but touches C internally at P.
Then the inversion of C16 with respect to the given circle is a circle C19 encloses C and
touches C at P. Conversely, the inversion of C19 is C16. (Figure 11)
Given a circle C21 inside the given circle C which does not enclose O but touches C internally
at P. Then the inversion of C21 with respect to the given circle is a circle C22 which touches C
externally at P. Conversely, the inversion of C22 is C21. (Figure 12)
C3
D C1 V
U
B
G
C5
F
H
K C8
C4 Q C2
N S E
C7
W
J R C9
T
L M
C A
C6
I
X
Z
Suppose the circle C1 with centre at A and the circle C2 with centre at B touch each other at E.
Draw a common tangent XEU. Let EZ and ED be the diameters of these two circles.
Let H be the mid-point of DZ. Use H as centre HD as radius to draw a circle C3.
Use D as centre, DE as radius to draw a circle C4. C4 and C3 intersect at WV.
Join VW. VW intersects DZ at G. Let F be the mid-point of EG.
Use F as centre, FE as radius to draw a circle C5.
BE = 3, AE = 2 (given), DE = 6, EZ = 4, DZ = 6 + 4 = 10.
HD = HZ = HW = 5
Let the diameter of C5 be x, i.e. GE = x, DG = 6 x.
HG = HD DG = 5 (6 x) = x 1
In DGW, WG2 = 62 (6 x)2 = 12x + x2 (1) (Pythagoras theorem)
In HGW, WG2 = 52 (x 1)2 = 24 + 2x x2 (2) (Pythagoras theorem)
6
(1) = (2): 24 + 2x x2 = 12x + x2 x = 2.4 The radius of C5 is 1.2 =
5
DGDZ = (6 2.4)10 = 36 = DE G is the point of inversion of Z w.r.t. C4.
2
Clearly E is the point of inversion of E w.r.t. C4.

The inversion of C2 w.r.t. C4 is C5.
The inversion of C1 w.r.t. C4 is the tangent UEX (see Figure 10).
Let the circle, with centre at C and radius 1 be C6.
Join DC. DC cuts C6 at J. DC is produced to cut C6 again J. Then IJ = diameter of C6 = 2.
4
In ABC, let ABC = , cos = , CBD = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
5
4 24 221
In BCD, CD2 = 32 + 42 234 cos(180 ) = 25 24 = CD =
5 5 5
221 221
DJ = DC CJ = 1; DI = DC + CI = +1
5 5
Invert C6 w.r.t. C4 to C7 centre at N. Suppose DI intersects C7 at K and L in the figure.
221 221
DIDK = 62 and DJDL = 62 1 DK 36 and 1 DL 36
5 5
36 5 221 36 5 221
DK = = 1 and DL = = 1
221 6 5 221 6 5
1 1
5 5
5 221 5 221 5 5
LK = DL DK = 1 1 = The radius of C7 is .
6 5 6 5 3 6
Now construct a smaller circle C8 centre P, touches C5 and C7 externally and also touches XU.
P is not shown in the figure.
30 501840
By the result of Lemma 1, the radius of C8 is ; ME = 2 and DP =
121 121
DP cuts C8 at Q, DP is produced further to cut C8 again at R.
501840 30 501840 30
DQ = DP PQ = ; DR = DP + PR = +
121 121 121 121
Now invert C8 w.r.t C4 to give C9. This circle will touch C1, C2 and C6 externally.
DR intersects C9 at S, produce DR further to meet C9 again at T. Then
501840 30 501840 30
DSDR = 62 and DTDQ = 62 DS 36 and

DT 36

121 121
36 121 501840 30 36 121 501840 30
DS = = ; DT = =
501840 30 115 501840 30 115
501840 30 501840 30 12
ST = DT DS = = = diameter of C9
115 115 23
6
The radius of C9 is .
23
G8 Given that a, b, x and y are non-zero integers, where ax + by = 4, ax2 +by2 = 22, ax3 +by3 = 46
and ax4 + by4 = 178. Find the value of ax5 + by5.
11 23
Clearly x y, otherwise (2)(1): x = , (3) (2): x = , which is a contradiction
2 11
22 y 11
y(1) (2): x(y x)a = 4y 22 a = (5)
x y x
211 2 x
x(1) (2): y(x y)b = 4x 22 b = (6)
y y x
223 y 89
y(3) (4): x3(y x)a = 46y 178 a = 3 (7)
x y x
289 23x
x(3) (4): y3(x y)b = 46x 178 b = 3 (8)
y y x
22 y 11 223 y 89
(5) = (7): = 3
x y x x y x
x (2y 11) = 23y 89 (9)
2
211 2 x 289 23x

(6) = (8): = 3
y y x y y x
y (11 2x) = 89 23x (10)
2
(9) + (10): 11(y x)(y + x) 2xy(y x) = 23(y x)

11(x + y) 2xy = 23 (11)
By trail and error, a particular solution of the linear Diophantine equation is x + y = 1, xy = 6
The general solution of (11) is x + y = 1 + 2t, xy = 6 + 11t (*), where t is an integer.
x and y are the roots of the quadratic equation u2 (1 + 2t)u + (11t 6) = 0
= (1 + 2t)2 4(11t 6) = 4t2 40t + 25 = 4(t + 5)2 75
Given that x and y are integers
is a perfect squares
Let = 4(t + 5)2 75 = m2, where m is an integer.
(2t + 10 + m)(2t + 10 m) = 75
2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 3
(12) or (13) or (14)
2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 25
2t 10 m 25 2t 10 m 5 2t 10 m 15
or (15) or (16) or (17)
2t 10 m 3 2t 10 m 15 2t 10 m 5
2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 3
or (18) or (19) or (20)
2t 10 m 75 2t 10 m 1 2t 10 m 25
2t 10 m 25 2t 10 m 5 2t 10 m 15
or (21) or (22) or (23)
2t 10 m 3 2t 10 m 15 2t 10 m 5
Sub. t = 24 into (*), x + y = 49, xy = 258 x = 43, y = 6
22 6 11
436 43
Sub. t = 12 into (*), x + y = 25, xy = 126 x = 18, y = 7
22 7 11
187 18
Sub. t = 10 into (*), x + y = 21, xy = 104 x = 13, y = 8
22 8 11
138 13
Sub. t = 14 into (*), x + y = 27, xy = 160 x = 32, y = 5
22 5 11
325 32
Sub. t = 2 into (*), x + y = 3, xy = 28 x = 4, y = 7
2 2 7 11
4 7 4
Sub. t = 0 into (*), x + y = 1, xy = 6 x = 3, y = 2
2 2 2 11
Sub. x = 3, y = 2 into (5): a = =2
3 2 3
211 2 3
Sub. x = 3, y = 2 into (6): b = =1
2 2 3
Check: Sub. a = 2, b = 1, x = 3, y = 2 into (1): ax + by = 23 + 1(2) = 4
Accept the answer. Now ax5 + by5 = 235 + 1(2)5 = 454
Method 2 ax + by = 4 (1), ax2 +by2 = 22 (2), ax3 +by3 = 46 (3), ax4 + by4 = 178 (4).
Let ax5 + by5 = m (5)
(x + y)(2): (x + y)(ax2 + by2) = 22(x + y)
ax3 + by3 + xy(ax + by) = 22(x + y)
Sub. (1) and (3): 46 + 4xy = 22(x + y) 23 + 2xy = 11(x + y) (6)
(x + y)(3): (x + y)(ax3 + by3) = 46(x + y)
ax4 + by4 + xy(ax2 + by2) = 46(x + y)
Sub. (2) and (4): 178 + 22xy = 46(x + y) 89 + 11xy = 23(x + y) (7)
11(7) 23(6): 450 + 75xy = 0 xy = 6 (8)
11(6) 2(7): 75(x + y) = 75 x + y = 1 (9)
(x + y)(4): (x + y)(ax4 + by4) = 178(x + y)
ax5 + by5 + xy(ax3 + by3) = 178(x + y)
Sub. (3) and (5): m + 46xy = 178(x + y)
Sub. (8) and (9): m + 46(6) = 1781
m = 454
G9 Given that, in the figure, ABC is an equilateral triangle
with AF = 2, FG = 10, GC = 1 and DE = 5. Find the
value of HI.
AF + FG + GC = 2 + 10 + 1 = 13
AB = BC = CA = 13 (property of equilateral triangle)
Let AD = x, then BE = 13 5 x = 8 x
Let HI = y, BH = z, then IC = 13 y z
ADAE = AFAG
x(x + 5) = 212
x2 + 5x 24 = 0
(x 3)(x + 8) = 0
BE = 8 x = 5 A
BHBI = BEBD 2
F
x
z(z + y) = 510 = 50 (1) D
CICH = CGCF
(13 y z)(13 z) = 11 5
169 13(y + 2z) + z(y + z) = 11 (2) 10
Sub. (1) into (2): 169 13(y + 2z) + 50 = 11 E
y + 2z = 16 8-x
y = 16 2z (3) G
Sub. (3) into (1): z(z + 16 2z) = 50 1
2 z y C
z 16z + 50 = 0 B H I 13-y-z
z = 8 14 or 8 14
From (3), 2z 16 z 8 8 14 is rejected z = 8 14 only
HI = y = 16 2z = 16 2( 8 14 ) = 2 14
G10 Let an and bn be the x-intercepts of the quadratic function y = n(n 1)x2 (2n 1)x + 1,
where n is an integer greater than 1. Find the value of a2b2 + a3b3 + + a2015b2015.
Reference: 2005 HI5
The quadratic function can be written as y = (nx 1)[(n 1)x 1]
1 1
The x-intercepts are and .
n n 1
1 1 1
an bn = = for n > 1
nn 1 n 1 n
1 1 1 1 1
a2b2 + a3b3 + + a2015b2015 = 1
2 2 3 2014 2015
1 2014
=1 =
2015 2015
1. Construct an isosceles triangle which has the same base and height to the following triangle.
B E
3
4 4
A D C
Steps
(1) Construct the perpendicular bisector of AC, D is the mid point of AC.
(2) Copy ACB.
(3) Draw CBE so that it is equal to ACB, then BE // AE (alt. s eq.)
BE and the bisector in step 1 intersect at E.
(4) Join AE, CE.
Then AEC is the required isosceles triangle with AE = CE.
2. Given the following line segment MN represent a unit length, construct a line segment of
1
length .
5
G 4
6
7
5
1
H
E 2
F
3
C
8
M N
Steps
(1) Use N as centre, NM as radius to draw a circular arc.
(2) Use M as centre, MN as radius to draw a circular arc, cutting the arc in step 1 at E.
MNE is an equilateral triangle. MNE = 60
(3) Use E as centre, MN as radius to draw a circular arc, cutting the arc in step 1 at F.
FNE is an equilateral triangle. FNE = 60
(4) Use E as centre, NM as radius to draw a circular arc. Use F as centre, NM as radius to
draw a circular arc. The two arcs intersect at G. EFG is an equilateral triangle.
(5) Join NG and produce it longer. NG intersects the arc in step 1 at H.
NG is the bisector of ENF. MNG = 60 + 30 = 90
(6) Use H as centre, HN as radius to draw a semi-circle, cutting NG produced at A. AN = 2
(7) Join AM, cutting the semicircle in step (6) at C. AM = 12 2 2 = 5
(8) Join NC.
Then MC is the required length.
Proof: ACN = 90 ( in semi-circle)
It is easy to show that CMN ~ NMA (equiangular)
MC MN
(cor. sides, ~s)
MN AM
1
MC =
5
3. Construct a square whose area is equal to the difference between the areas of the following
two squares ABCD and PQRS.
5 F
G
CE = PQ E 6
3
2 7
4
1
4
C B
M R Q
S P
D A
Steps
(1) Draw the perpendicular bisector of BC , M is the mid-point of BC.
(2) Use M as centre, MB as radius to draw a semi-circle outside the square ABCD.
(3) Use C as centre, PQ as radius to draw an arc, cutting the semicircle in (2) at E.
(4) Join CE and produce it longer. Join BE. BEC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
(5) Use E as centre, BE as radius to draw an arc, cutting CE produced at F.
(6) Use B as centre, BE as radius to draw an arc. Use F as centre, FE as radius to draw an
arc. The two arcs intersect at G.
(7) Join FG and BG.
Then by Pythagoras theorem, BE2 = BC2 CE2; BEFG is the required square.
Individual Events
I1 10 I2 7 I3 *686 I4 3
see the remark
90 5 236328 2
10 2 *15 7
see the remark
15
2047 56 1
4
Group Events
3
G1 G2 417 G3 10 G4 1
5
15 23 0 625
1 5
34 3 1
2
3 5
15 12 3 10
2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If x 5 y 5 z 0 , determine = x2 + y2 + z2.
Sum of non-negative terms = 0 each term = 0 at the same time
x + 5 = 0 and y 5 = 0 and z = 0
x = 5 and y = 5 and z = 0
= x2 + y2 + z2 = 5 + 5 + 0 = 10
I1.2 If is the sum of all digits of the product 11111

11 99999
99 , determine the value of .

1's 9's

Observe the patterns 11 99 = 1089; 111999 = 110889.
Deductively, 11111
11 99999
99 = 11111
11088888
889

10 1's 10 9's 9 1's 9 9's
= the sum of all digits = 9 + 98 + 9 = 90
I1.3 Suppose that the real function f (x) satisfies f (xy) = f (x) f (y) for all real numbers x and y, and
f (1) < 1. Determine the value of = f () + 100 .
f (1) = f (1) f (1) f (1)[f (1) 1] = 0 f (1) = 0 or 1 (rejected)
f (1) = 0
f (x) = f (1x) = f (1)f (x) = 0 for all real values of x.
= f () + 100 = 0 + 100 90 = 10
I1.4 If n is a positive integer and f (n) = 2n + 2n1 + 2n2 + + 22 + 21 + 1,

determine the value of = f ().
f (n) = 2n+1 1 (sum to n terms of a G.S. a = 1, r = 2, no. of terms = n + 1)
= f (10) = 211 1 = 2047
Individual Event 2
x y z 1

I2.1 If x0, y0, z0 is a solution to the simultaneous equations below, y x z 2
z x y 4

determine the value of = x0 + y0 + z0.
(1) + (2) + (3): (x + y + z) = 7
=7
I2.2 If is the reminder of 111
111
, determine the value of .
100 1's
1111117 = 15873
111
111
= 111
0000 1111
111

100 1' s 96 1' s
= 7m + 7158 + 5, where m is an integer

=5
I2.3 If is the remainder of [( 2)100 + 50 + ( + 2)25] 3, determine the value of .
3100 + 550 + 725 = 3100 + (6 1)50 + (6 + 1)25
= 3100 + 6n + 1 + 6m + 1, where m and n are integers
=2
I2.4 If the equation x4 + ax2 + bx + = 0 has four real roots with three of them being 1, and 2,
Let the fourth root be t.
coefficient of x 3
1 + 2 + 22 + t = sum of roots = =0
coefficient of x 4
t = 7
constant term
1222(7) = product of roots = =
coefficient of x 4
= 56
Individual Event 3
I3.1 Of the positive integers from 1 to 1000, including 1 and 1000, there are of them that are not
divisible by 5 or 7. Determine the value of .
Reference: 1993 FG8.3-4, 1994 FG8.1-2, 1998 HI6
Numbers divisible by 35: 35, 70, , 980, there are 28 numbers
Numbers divisible by 5 or 7 = 200 + 142 28 = 314
Numbers that are not divisible by 5 or 7 = 1000 314 = 686
Of the positive integers from 1 to 1000, including 1 and 1000, there are of them that are not
divisible by 5 or not divisible by 7. Determine the value of .
numbers not divisible by 5 numbers not divisible by 7 numbers not divisible by 5 or 7 numbers not divisible by 5 and 7
5 7 5 7 5 7 5 7
numbers neither divisible by 5 nor 7 numbers not divisible by 5 or not

numbers not divisible by 5 and divisible by 7
numbers not divisible by 7

I3.2 Determine the value of = 12 22 + 32 4 + + (1) ( + 1) . 2 2

12 22 + 32 42 + + 6852 6862 + 6872
= (12 22) + (32 42) + + (6852 6862) + 6872
= (1 + 2)(1 2) + (3 + 4)(3 4) + + (685 + 686)(685 686) + 6872
= 3 7 1371 + 6872 (sum of 343 terms of A.P., common difference = 4)
3 1371
= 343 + 471969
2
= 236328
I3.3 If is the remainder of divided by the 1993rd term of the following sequence:
1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, . Determine the value of .
1 62
1 + 2 + 3 + + 62 = 62 = 1953 and 1993 1953 = 40 < 63
2
The 1993rd term of the sequence is 63.
236328 63, by division, the remainder is 15.
Determine the remainder of divided by the 1993rd term of the following sequence:
1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, . is not mentioned.
1
I3.4 In the figure below, BE = AC, BD = and DE + BC = 1. B
2
If is times the length of ED, determine the value of .
Let DE = x, BE = y
Then AC = y, BC = 1 x
It is easy to show that BED ~ BCA (equiangular)
DE AC x y E D
(cor. sides, ~ s) y2 = x(1 x)
BE BC y 1 x
2 2 2
BE + DE = BD (Pythagoras theorem)
1 1 1
y2 + x2 = x(1 x) + x2 = x = C A
4 4 4
15
=
4
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Let be the remainder of 21000 divided by 13, determine the value of .
Reference: 1972 American High School Mathematics Examination Q31, 2011 HI1
135 = 64 + 1 26 = 135 1
21000 = 242996 = 16(26)166 = (13 + 3)(135 1)166
= (13 + 3)(13m + 1), by using binomial theorem
= 13n + 3, where n and m are integers
=3
7 4 7 4
1 1
2 2
I4.2 Determine the value of = .

7 4 3 = 7 2 12 = 4 3 2 4 3 = 4 3 = 2 3
7 4 3 =2 3
7 4 3 7 4 3
1 1
2 2 2 32 3
= = =2
3 3
I4.3 If f (a) = a and F(a, b) = b2 + a, determine the value of = F(3, f (4)).
f (4) = 4 2 = 2
= F(3, f (4)) = F(3, 2) = 22 + 3 = 7
log x
I4.4 If is the product of all real roots of x 10 , determine the value of .
10
log 7 x
x
log7 x log x = log 10
log x 2 1
log 7
log x = log 7
x = 10 log 7
or 10 log 7
Product of roots = 10 log 7

10 log 7
=1
Group Event 1
1
1 3 9 2 6 18 n 3n 9n 3
G1.1 Simplify .
1 5 25 2 10 50 n 5n 25n
1
1 3 9 2 6 18 n 3n 9n 3

1 5 25 2 10 50 n 5n 25n

1
33 13 23 n3 3
= 3 3

5 1 2 n
3 3

3
=
5
G1.2 Among 50 school teams joining the HKMO, no team answered all four questions correctly in
the paper of a group event. If the first question was solved by 45 teams, the second by 40
teams, the third by 35 teams and the fourth by 30 teams. How many teams solved both the
third and the fourth questions?
No team answered all four questions correctly
Each team can solve at most three questions.
The maximum number of solved questions = 503 = 150
The actual number of solved questions = 45 + 40 + 35 + 30 = 150
Each team can solve exactly three questions.
Number of teams that cannot solve the first question = (50 45) teams = 5 teams
Number of teams that cannot solve the second question = (50 40) teams =10 teams
Number of teams that cannot solve the third question = (50 35) teams = 15 teams
Number of teams that cannot solve the fourth question = (50 30) teams = 20 teams
Number of school teams solved both the third and the fourth questions = 5 + 10 = 15
Remark We cannot use the Venn diagram on the right with
Q1(corre ct) Q2(corre ct)
explanation below:
x = school teams that can solve Q1 but not Q2, Q3 nor Q4. x y
y = school teams that can solve Q1, Q2 but not Q3 nor Q4.
z = school teams that can solve all four questions.
t = school teams that can solve Q1, Q3 and Q4 but not Q2 z
However, we could not find any part in Venn diagram
representing school teams that can solve Q1, Q4 but not Q2 t
nor Q3 !!!
Q3(corre ct)Q4(corre ct)
G1.3 Let n be the product 3659893456789325678 and 342973489379256. Determine the number
of digits of n. (Reference: 2013 FG4.1)
Let x = 3 659 893 456 789 325 678, y = 342 973 489 379 256
x = 3.71018, y = 3.41014 (correct to 2 sig. fig.)
n = xy = 3.710183.41014 = 12.581032 = 1.2581033
The number of digits of n is 34.
G1.4 Three circles of radii 2, 3 and 10 units are placed inside another big circle in such a way that
all circles are touching one another. Determine the value of the radius of the big circle.
C4
C1
C2 H
3 B
3 B 5-y
H 3 Q r-3
D
3 r-2 O
y r - 10
E 10 A
10
2 2 C P 12 - x G
I x
2
C 2 F 10 A
I
C3
10
G
Let A be the centre of circle C1 with radius 10, B be the centre of circle C2 with radius 3, C be the
centre of circle C3 with radius 2. Join AB, BC, AC.
Suppose C1 and C2 touch each other at D, C2 and C3 touch each other at E, C3 and C1 touch each
other at F. Then A, D, B are collinear, B, E, C are collinear, C, F, A are collinear.
AB = 10 + 3 = 13, BC = 3 + 2 = 5, AC = 10 + 2 = 12
BC2 + AC2 = 52 + 122 = 25 + 144 = 169 = 132 = AB2
ACB = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
Let O be the centre of circle C4 with radius r circumscribing all three circles C1, C2, C3 at G, H and I
respectively. Then O, A, G are collinear, O, B, H are collinear, O, C, I are collinear.
AG = 10, BH = 3, CI = 2, OA = r 10, OB = r 3, OC = r 2.
Let P and Q be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from O onto AC and AB respectively.
Then OPCQ is a rectangle.
Let CP = x = QO (opp. sides of rectangle), CQ = y = PO (opp. sides of rectangle)
AP = 12 x, BQ = 5 y.
In OCP, x2 + y2 = (r 2)2 (1) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OAP, (12 x)2 + y2 = (r 10)2 (2) (Pythagoras theorem)
In OBQ, x2 + (5 y)2 = (r 3)2 (3) (Pythagoras theorem)
2r 6
(1) (2): 24x 144 = 16r 96 x = (4)
3
r 10
(1) (3): 10y 25 = 2r 5 y = (5)
5
2 2
2r 6 r 10
r 2
2
Sub. (4) and (5) into (1):
3 5
25(4r + 24r + 36) + 9(r + 20r + 100) = 225(r2 4r + 4)
2 2
116r2 1680r 900 = 0 29r2 420r 225 = 0

(r 15)(29r + 15) = 0 r = 15, the radius of the big circle is 15.
Group Event 2
G2.1 On a 33 grid of 9 squares, each squares is to be painted with either Red or Blue. If is the
total number of possible colouring in which no 22 grid consists of only Red squares,
If there is no restriction, number of possible colouring = 29 = 512
(1)If all 9 squares are painted as red, number of colouring = 1
(2)If there are exactly three 22 grid consists of only Red squares, possible pattern may be:
RRB 90 rotation gives another possible pattern
RRR Number of colouring = 4
RRR
(3)If there are exactly two 22 grid consists of only Red squares, possible pattern may be:
BRR Number of colouring = 2
RRB
RRR
RRR
RRB
BRR
(4)
90 rotation gives
RRR RRR RRB RRB RRB
RRB RRB RRR RRB RRB
Number of colouring
RRR RRB RRB RRR RRB
= 45 = 20
(5)If there is exactly one 22 grid consists of only Red squares, possible pattern may be:
BBB 90 rotation gives
RRB Number of colouring = 4
(6)
RBB 90 rotation gives
BRB BBR BBB BBB
RRB RRB RRR RRB
RRB RRB RRB RRR
(7) = 45 = 20
RBR 90 rotation gives
RBB RBB BRR BRB
RRR RRB RRB RRR
RRB RRR RRB RRB
(8) = 45 = 20
BRB 90 rotation gives
BBR BBR
RRR RRB
RRR Number of colouring
RRB RRR
(9) = 43 = 12
90 rotation gives
BRR RBR RBR
RRB RRB RRR
Number of colouring
RRR RRR RRB
= 43 = 12
Total number of possible colouring in which no 22 grid consists of only Red squares
= No restriction all 9 red squares exactly 3 22 red grid exactly 2 22 red grid exactly 1 22 red grid
= 512 1 4 2 20 4 20 20 12 12 = 417
Method 2 (a)All 9 blue squares = 1 pattern. (b)8 blue squares + 1 red squares = 9 patterns.
(c)7B+2R = C29 = 36 patterns, (d)6B+3R = C39 = 84 patterns, (e)5B+4R = C49 4 = 122 patterns
(f)4B+5R = C59 4 5 = 106 patterns, (g)3B+6R = C69 4 C25 4 = 48 patterns
(h)2B+7R = 8 + 2 = 10 patterns, (i)1B+8R = 1 pattern
Total number of different patterns = 1 + 9 + 36 + 84 + 122 + 106 + 48 + 10 + 1 = 417
G2.2 If the sum of 25 consecutive positive integers is the product of 3 prime numbers, what is the
minimum sum of these 3 prime numbers?
Let the smallest positive integer be x. We use the formula: S(n) = 2a n 1d .
n
2
25
2 x 24 1 = 25(x + 12) = 55(x + 12) = product of 3 prime numbers
2
The minimum prime for x + 12 is 13. The minimum sum of these 3 prime numbers is 23.
G2.3 Determine the sum of all real roots of the following equation |x + 3| |x 1| = x + 1.
When x 3, the equation becomes x 3 (1 x) = x + 1 x = 5
When 3 < x 1, the equation becomes x + 3 (1 x) = x + 1 x = 1
When 1 < x, the equation becomes x + 3 (x 1) = x + 1 x = 3
Sum of all real roots = 5 + (1) + 3 = 3
A graph is given below:
y
G2.4 In the figure below, there are 4 identical circles placed

inside an equilateral triangle. If the radii of the circles are
1 unit, what is the value of the area of the triangle?
Let the triangle be ABC, O is the centre of the middle
circle, D, E, F are the centres of the other 3 circles
respectively. Let P, Q, R, S, T, U be the points of contact
as shown.
DP AB, EQ AB, ER BC, FS BC, FT AC,
DU AC (tangent radius)
DP = EQ = ER = FS = FT = DU = 1 (radii) A
OD = OE = OF = 2 (radii 1 + radii 1)
ODE OEF OFD (S.S.S.)
P U
DOE = EOF = FOD (corr. s s)
D
DOE + EOF + FOD = 360 (s at a point)
DOE = EOF = FOD = 120
DPQE, ERSF, FTUD are rectangles (opp. sides are eq. and //)
O T
DE = EF = FD = 22 sin 60 = 2 3 =PQ =RS = TU Q
In ADU, DAU = 30, DU = 1, DU AU, E F
AU = 1 tan 60 = 3 B R S C
AB = BC = CA = 2 3 + 2 3 = 4 3
1
2
Area of ABC = 4 3 sin 60 = 12 3
2
Group Event 3
G3.1 Simplify 3 5 3 5 .
Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2
3 5 =
62 5
2
=
1
2
5 2 5 1 =
1
2
5 1
3 5 =
62 5
2
=
1
2
5 2 5 1 =
1
2
5 1
3 5 3 5 =
1
2
5 1 +
1

2

5 1 =
1
2

2 5 = 10
G3.2 Let p be a prime and m be an integer. If p(p + m) + 2p = (m + 2)3, find the greatest possible
value of m.
p(p + m + 2) = (m + 2)3
If m is even and p is odd, then odd(odd + even + 2) = (even + 2)3 LHS RHS !!!
If m is odd and p is odd, then odd(odd + odd + 2) = (odd + 2)3 LHS RHS !!!
In all cases, p must be even.
the only even prime is 2 p = 2
2(m + 4) = (m + 2)3
LHS is even (m+2)3 is evenm + 2 is evenRHS is divisible by 8LHS is divisible by 8
m + 4 = 4n, where n is an integer m + 2 = 4n 2
Put m + 2 = 4n 2 into the equation: 2(4n) = (4n 2)3
n = (2n 1)3
n = 1, m = 0 (This is the only solution, n < (2n 1)3 for n > 1 and n > (2n 1)3 for n < 1)
1 1
1 2 1 2
G3.3 Determine a root to x = x 1 .
x x
2 2
1 1 1 1
x 1 x x 1 x
x x x x
1 1 1
x2 2x 1 1 x
x x x

x2 x 1 2 x2 x x2 x 2 x2 x 1 0
x 2

2
x 1 0
x 2 x = 1 x2 x 1 = 0
1 5 1 5
x= or (rejected as x > 0)
2 2
G3.4 In the figure below, the area of each small triangle is 1. A
Determine the value of the area of the triangle ABC.
Total number of equilateral triangles = 24
Area of ABC
1 1 1 C
= 24 4 6 1 4 6
2 2 2
= 10
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let b = 12 22 + 32 42 + 52 20122 + 20132.
Reference: 1997 HI5, 2002 FG2.3, 2004 HI1, 2015 FI3.2
Determine the remainder of b divided by 2015.
b = 1 + (3 2)(3 + 2) + (5 4)(5 + 4) + + (2013 2012)(2012 + 2013)
b = 1 + 5 + 9 + + 4025
This an arithmetic series, a = 1, d = 4, 1 + (n 1)4 = 4025 n = 1007
1007
b= 1 4025 = 10072013 = 1007(2015 2) = 10072015 2014 = 10062015 + 1
2
Remainder = 1
G4.2 There are positive integers with leading digits being 6 and upon removing this leading digit,
1
the resulting integer is of the original value. Determine the least of such positive
25
integers.
Let the original number be x.
1
x = 610n + y, where y < 10n and y = x
25
1
x = 610n + x
25
24x = 15010n
4x = 2510n
4 is not a factor of 25, so 4 must be a factor of 10n
Least possible n = 2
The least positive x is 251024 = 625
1 1
G4.3 If x 1 , determine the value of x5 5 .
x x
2
1 1 1
x 1 x 2 2 1 x 2 1
2 2
x x x
1 2 1 1 1 1
x x 2 1 1 1 x 3 x 1 x 3 = 2
3 3
x x x x x
2 1 3 1 1 1 1
x 2 x 3 1 2 2 x 5 x 2 x 5 = 1
5 5
x x x x x

G4.4 In the figure below, when triangle A shifts units to the right, the area of shaded region is
L

times of the total area of the triangles A and B. Determine the value of .
L

D K H
A B
E G F I L J M
L L-
Let the original triangle be DEF. G is a point on EF with EF = L.
DEG is translated to HIJ by units, DEG HIJ, DGF KLM, EF = L, HK = .
Let HI intersects KM at N, IM = L
Consider DEF in the left figure and NIM in the right figure.
DEF = NIM (corr. s, DE // HI)
DFE = NMI (corr. s, DF // KM)
DEF ~ NIM (equiangular)
2
S NIM L
= (ratio of areas of ~s)
S DEF L
2
S NIM
= 1 (Given = )
L L S DEF L
2 2

3 1 0 , this is a quadratic equation in .
L L L
3 5 3 5
= or
L 2 2
3 5
From the figure, < 1 and >1
L 2
3 5
= only
L 2
19
13-14 1 2 12 3 120 4 193 5 90
121
Individual *107 *14
6 See the remark
7 1 8 8 9 See the remark
10 15
65
1 5 2 23 3 4 15 4 2 5 49
13-14 144
Group 29
16 3+ 5
6 (=7.25) 7 1 8 1584 9 3 10
4 3 2
Individual Events
ab
=2
a + b
bc a
I1 Given that a, b, c > 0 and = 3 . Find the value of .
b + c bc
ca
=5
c + a
a+ b 1
= LL(1)
= 1 1 1
+
ab 2 b a 2

b + c 1
= LL(2)
1 1 1
= +
bc 3 c b 3
c+ a 1
= LL(3)
1 1 1
= +
ca 5 a c 5
2 19 3600
(1) + (2) (3): = b=
b 30 361
2 11 3600
(1) + (3) (2): = a=
a 30 121
2 1
(2) + (3) (1): = c = 3600
c 30
a 3600 361 19
= 2
=
bc 121 3600 121
I2 Given that a = 2014x + 2011, b = 2014x + 2013 and c = 2014x + 2015.

Find the value of a2 + b2 + c2 ab bc ca.
a2 + b2 + c2 ab bc ca
=
1
2
[
(a c )2 + (c b )2 + (b a )2 ]
[
= (2014 x + 2011 2014 x 2015)2 + (2014 x + 2015 2014 x 2013)2 + (2014 x + 2013 2014 x 2011)2
1
2
]
=
1
2
[ ]
( 4 )2 + 2 2 + 2 2 = 12
I3 As shown in Figure 1, a point T lies in an equilateral

triangle PQR such that TP = 3, TQ = 3 3 and TR = 6.
Find PTR.
Rotate PTR anticlockwise by 60 to QSR.
Then PTR QSR, SR = 6 and SRT = 60
Consider TRS,
SR = 6 = TR
TRS is isosceles.
SRT = 60
RTS = RST = 60 (s sum of isos. ) P
TRS is an equilateral triangle
TS = 6
Consider TQS, 3
QS2 + QT2 = 32 + ( 3 3 )2 = 9 + 27 = 36 = 62 = TS2 T
TQS = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
3 3 6
tan TSQ = = 3 3 3
3
TSQ = 60 60
QSR = TSQ + RST = 60 + 60 = 120 Q R
PTR = QSR = 120 (corr. s, PTR QSR) 3 6
S
Reference: http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Geometry/construction/others/345.pdf
I4 Let and be the roots of the quadratic equation x2 14x + 1 = 0.
2 2
Find the value of + .
2 + 1 2 + 1
2 + 1 = 14; 2 + 1 = 14; + = 14 and = 1
2 + 2 = ( + )2 2 = 196 2 = 194
2
+
2
= + = =
(
14 1 14 1 196 2 14 + 196 2 14 196 2 + 2 14 2
= 193
)
2 + 1 2 + 1 14 14 196 196
Reference: 2002 HI6
AC2 = 102 + 112 21110 cos B ...............(1)
AC2 = 52 + 142 2514 cos D ...................(2)
(1) = (2): 221 220 cosB = 221 140 cosD (3)
cos D = cos B
(3): (220 + 140) cos B = 0 B = 90 = D
1 1
= 11 10 + 5 14 = 90
2 2
I6 Let n be a positive integer and n < 1000. If (n2014 1) is divisible by (n 1)2,

find the maximum value of n.
Let p = 2014.
( )
n p 1 (n 1) n p 1 + n p 2 + L + n + 1 n p 1 + n p 2 + L + n + 1
= =
(n 1)2 (n 1)2 n 1
=
(n ) ( )
1 + n p 2 1 + L + (n 1) + p
p 1
n 1
p 1 p 2
n 1 n 1 p
= + +L+1+
n 1 n 1 n 1
Clearly n 1 are factors of n 1, np2 1, , n 1.
p1
n p 1 1 n p 2 1
+ + L + 1 is an integer.
n 1 n 1
p 2014 2 19 53
= = is an integer
n 1 n 1 n 1
The largest value of n 1 is 253 = 106.
i.e. The maximum value of n = 107.
Remark: The original question is Let n be a positive number and n < 1000. If (n2014 1) is
divisible by (n 1)2, find the maximum value of n. n n < 1000
Note that n must be an integer for divisibility question.
I7 If x3 + x2 + x + 1 = 0,
find the value of x2014 + x2013 + x2012 + + x1 + 1 + x + x2 + + x2013 + x2014.
The given equation can be factorised as (1 + x)(1 + x2) = 0 x = 1 or i
x2014 + x2013 + x2012 + + x1 + 1 + x + x2 + + x2013 + x2014
= x2014(1 + x + x2 + x3) + + x6(1 + x + x2 + x3) + x2 + x1 + 1 + x + x2 + x3(1 + x + x2 + x3)
+ + x2011(1 + x + x2 + x3)
= x2 + x1 + 1 + x + x2 = x2(1 + x + x2 + x3) + x2 = x2
When x = 1, x2 = 1; when x = i, x2 = 1
I8 Let xy = 10x + y. If xy + yx is a square number, how many numbers of this kind exist?
xy + yx = 10x + y + 10y + x = 10(x + y) + x + y = 11(x + y)
Clearly x and y are integers ranging from 1 to 9.
2 x + y 18.
In order that xy + yx = 11(x + y) is a square number, x + y = 11
(x, y) = (2, 9), (3, 8), (4, 7), (5, 6), (6, 5), (7, 4), (8, 3) or (9, 2).
There are 8 possible numbers.
I9 Given that x, y and z are positive real numbers such that xyz = 64.
If S = x + y + z, find the value of S when 4x2 + 2xy + y2 + 6z is a minimum.
4x2 + 2xy + y2 + 6z = 4x2 4xy + y2 + 6xy + 6z
= (2x y)2 + 6(xy + z)
0 + 6 2 xyz (A.M. G.M.)
= 96
When 4x2 + 2xy + y2 + 6z is a minimum, 2x y = 0 and xy = z
y = 2x, z = 2x2
Q xyz = 64
x(2x)(2x2) = 64 x4 = 16
x = 2, y = 4, z = 8 S = 2 + 4 + 8 = 14
Remark: The original question is: Given that x, y and z are real numbers such that xyz =64
Note that the steps in inequality fails if xy < 0 and z < 0.
I10 Given that ABC is an acute triangle, where A > B > C.

If x is the minimum of A B, B C and 90 A, find the maximum value of x.
In order to attain the maximum value of x, the values of A B, B C and 90 A
must be equal.
A B = B C = 90 A
2B = A + C (1)
2A = 90 + B (2)
A + B + C = 180 (3) (s sum of )
Sub. (1) into (3), 3B = 180
B = 60 (4)
Sub. (4) into (2): 2A = 90 + 60
A = 75 (5)
Sub. (4) and (5) into (1): 2(60) = 75 + C
C = 45
The maximum value of x = 75 60 = 15
Method 2
90 A x
90 A + A + B + C 180 + x (s sum of )
B + C 90 + x (1)
Q B C x (2)
((1) + (2))2: B 45 + x (3)
Q A B x (4)
(3) + (4): A 45 + 2x (5)
90 A x
90 x A
90 x A 45 + 2x by (5)
90 x 45 + 2x
45 3x
15 x
The maximum value of x is 15.
Group Events
G1 Given that 2014 x 2 2004 x 2 = 2 , find the value of 2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2 .
( 2014 x 2
2004 x 2 ) ( 2014 x 2
+ 2004 x 2 )= 2
2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2
( ) (
2014 x 2 2004 x 2
=2
)
2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2
10 = 2( 2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2 )
2014 x 2 + 2004 x 2 = 5
G2 Figure 1 shows a ABC, AB = 32, AC = 15 and

BC = x, where x is a positive integer. If there are
points D and E lying on AB and AC respectively
such that AD = DE = EC = y, where y is a positive
integer. Find the value of x.
Let BAC = , AE = 15 y, y = 1, 2, , 14.
Apply triangle inequality on ADE, y + y > 15 y
y > 5 LL (1)
AED = (base s, isos. )
By drawing a perpendicular bisector of AE,
15 y
cos = LL (2)
2y
Apply cosine formula on ABC,
x2 = 152 + 322 2(15)(32)cos
15 y
x2 = 1249 480 by (2)
y
7200
x2 = 1729 LL (3)
y
Q x is a positive integer
x2 is a positive integer
7200
is a positive integer.
y
y is a positive factor of 7200 and y = 6, 7, 8, , 14 by (1) and (3)
y = 6, 8, 9, 10 or 12.
When y = 6, x2 = 1729 1200 = 529 x = 23, accepted.
Conclusion, x = 23
7
G3 If 0 180 and cos + sin = , find the value of cos + cos3 + cos5 + .
13
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1993 HG10, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4
7
cos + sin = (1)
13
49
(cos + sin )2 =
169
49
169
49
1 + 2 sin cos =
169
120
2 sin cos = (*)
169
120
2 sin cos =
169
289
1 2 sin cos =
169
289
cos2 2 sin cos + sin2 =
169
289
(cos sin )2 =
169
17 17
cos sin = or
13 13
From (1), sin cos < 0 and 0 180
cos < 0 and sin > 0
17
cos sin = (2)
13
10
(1) + (2): 2 cos =
13
5
cos =
13
5

cos 65
cos + cos3 + cos5 + = = 13 =
1 cos
2
25 144
1
169
G4 As shown in Figure 2, ABCD is a square. P is a point lies in

A
ABCD such that AP = 2 cm, BP = 1 cm and APB = 105. If D
CP2 + DP2 = x cm2, find the value of x.
Let CP =c cm, DP = d cm 2 cm
Rotate AP about A in clockwise direction by 90 to AR.
Rotate BP about B in anticlockwise direction by 90 to BQ.
Join PR, PQ. 105 P
AR = AP = 2cm, PAR = 90, BQ = BP = 1cm, PBQ = 90
APR and BPQ are right angled isosceles triangles. 1 cm
APR = 45, BPQ = 45 B C
PR = 2 2 cm, PQ = 2 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
APQ = 105 45 = 60, BPR = 105 45 = 60
Apply cosine formula on BPR and APQ.
( ) ( )
BR2 = 2 2 + 12 2(1) 2 2 cos 60 o = 9 2 2 cm2
2
= ( 2) + 2 2(2)( 2 )cos 60 = 6 2
2
AQ2 2 o
2 cm2
Consider ABQ and CBP,
BQ = BP = 1 cm (by construction)
A
ABQ = 90 ABP D
= CBP
ABQ CBP (S.A.S.) 2 cm
R
CP2 = AQ2 = 6 2 2 cm2 (corr. sides, s)
Consider ABR and ADP, Q
AR = AP = 2 cm (by construction) P
RAB = 90 BAP
1 cm
= PAD
AB = AD (sides of a square) B C
ABR ADP (S.A.S.)
DP2 = BR2 = 9 2 2 cm2 (corr. sides, s)
x = 6 2 2 + 9 2 2 = 15 4 2
G5 If x, y are real numbers and x2 + 3y2 = 6x + 7, find the maximum value of x2 + y2.
1
(
x2 + 3y2 = 6x + 7 (x 3)2 + 3y2 = 16 (1) and y2 = x 2 + 6 x + 7 (2)
3
)
2 2
Sub. (2) into x + y :
3
1
3
[(
1
3
) ]
x2 + y2 = (3 x 2 x 2 + 6 x + 7 ) = (2 x 2 + 6 x + 7 ) = 2 x 2 + 3 x + 7
1
3
[ ] [ 3
2
]
= 2(x 2 + 3 x + 1.5 2 ) 2 1.5 2 + 7 = 2( x + 1.5) + 2.5 = ( x + 1.5) +
1 1 2
3
2 5
6
2 2
From (1), 3y = 16 (x 3) 0
4 x 3 4
1 x 7
0.5 x + 1.5 8.5
0.25 (x + 1.5)2 72.25
( x + 1 .5 )
1 2 2 289
6 3 6
1 ( x + 1 .5 ) +
2 5 289 5
+ = 49 The maximum value of x2 + y2 is 49.
2
3 6 6 6
G6 As shown in Figure 3, X, Y and Z are points on

BC, CA and AB of ABC respectively such that
AZY = BZX, BXZ = CXY and
CYX = AYZ. If AB = 10, BC = 6 and CA = 9,
find the length of AZ.
Let AZY = , BXZ = and CYX = .
ZXY = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line)
XYZ = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line) C
YZX = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line) b-tc
Y
ZXY + XYZ + YZX = 180 (s sum of ) X

180 2 + 180 2 + 180 2 = 180 tc
+ + = 180 (1)
In CXY, C + + = 180 (s sum of )

C = 180 ( + ) = by (1)
A tb Z c-tb B
AYZ ~ ABC, BXZ ~ BAC, CXY ~ CAB (equiangular)
Let BC = a, CA = b, AB = c.
AZ AY
= = t (corr. sides, ~s), where t is the proportional constant
AC AB
AZ AY
= = t AZ = bt, AY = ct
b c
BZ = AB AZ = c tb; CY = AC AY = b tc
BZ BX
= (corr. sides, ~s)
BC AB
c tb BX c 2 bct
= BX = (1)
a c a
CY CX
= (corr. sides, ~s)
BC AC
b tc CX b 2 bct
= CX = (2)
a b a
BX + CX = BC
c 2 bct b 2 bct
+ =a by (1) and (2)
a a
b2 + c2 2bct = a2
b 2 + c 2 a 2 9 2 + 10 2 6 2 145 29
AZ = tb = = = = (= 7.25)
2c 2 10 20 4
Method 2
Join AX, BY, CZ.
C
Let AZY = , BXZ = and CYX = . Y
ZXY = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line) X

XYZ = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line)
qp
YZX = 180 2 (adj. s on st. line)
ZXY + XYZ + YZX = 180 (s sum of )
180 2 + 180 2 + 180 2 = 180 A Z B
+ + = 180 (1)
In CXY, C + + = 180 (s sum of )
C = 180 ( + ) = by (1)
ABXY, BCYZ, CAZX are cyclic quadrilaterals (ext. = int. opp. )
Let XZC = p, YZC = q.
Then XBY = CBY = CZY = q (s in the same segment)
XAY = XAC = XZC = p (s in the same segment)
But XAY = XBY (s in the same segment)
p=q
On the straight line AZB, + q + p + = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
AZC = BZC = 90
i.e. CZ is an altitude of ABC.
b 2 + c 2 a 2 9 2 + 10 2 6 2 145 29
By cosine formula, cos A = = = =
2bc 2 9 10 180 36
29 29
AZ = AC cos A = 9 =
36 4
G7 Given that a, b, c and d are four distinct numbers, where (a +c)(a +d)= 1 and (b +c)(b +d)= 1.
Find the value of (a + c)(b + c). (Reference: 2002 HI7, 2006 HG6, 2009 FI3.3)
a 2 + ac + ad + cd = 1 LL (1)
2
b + bc + bd + cd = 1 LL (2 )
(1) (2): a2 b2 + (a b)c + (a b)d = 0

(a b)(a + b + c + d) = 0
Qab0a+b+c+d=0
b + c = (a + d)
(a + c)(b + c) = (a + c)(a + d) = 1
G8 Let a1 = 215, a2 = 2014 and an+2 = 3an+1 2an, where n is a positive integer.
Find the value of a2014 2a2013.
an+2 = 3an+1 2an an+2 2an+1 = an+1 2an
a2014 2a2013 = a2013 2a2012 = a2012 2a2011 = LL = a2 2a1 = 2014 2(215) = 1584
8
G9 Given that the minimum value of the function y = sin2 x 4 sin x + m is .
3
Find the minimum value of my.
y = sin2 x 4 sin x + m = (sin x 2)2 + m 4
m 3 (sin x 2)2 + m 4 m + 5
8
m3=
3
1
m=
3
8 16
y
3 3
8 16
8
1 3 1 3
33 = m
y
3 3
16
16
1 3
The minimum value of my is = 3 3 .
3
90o
G10 Given that tan ( )
tan 90o tan x = 1 and 1 < tan x < 3. Find the value of tan x.
tan x
90 o 90o 90o
+ 90 o tan x = 90 o or + 90o tan x = 270o or + 90o tan x = 90o (2m + 1) , m Z
tan x tan x tan x
1 1 1
+ tan x = 1 or + tan x = 3 or + tan x = 2m + 1
tan x tan x tan x
tan2 x tan x + 1 = 0 or tan2 x 3tan x + 1 = 0 or tan2 x (2m + 1)tan x + 1 = 0
= 3 < 0, no solution or tan x =

3 5
or
2m + 1 (2m + 1)2 4
2 2
3+ 5 3 5
Q 1 < tan x < 3 and 2.6, 0.4
2 2
3+ 5
tan x = only
2
1. Figure 1 shows a ABC. Construct a circle with centre O inside the triangle such that the three
sides of the triangle are tangents to the circle.
The steps are as follows: (The question is the same as 2009 construction sample paper Q1)
(1) Draw the bisector of BAC. B
(2) Draw the bisector of ACB. T 3 S
4
O is the intersection of the two angle 4
1
bisectors. O 2
4
(3) Join BO.
A
(4) Let R, S, T be the feet of perpendiculars R
C
from O onto AC, BC and AB respectively.
AOT AOR (A.A.S.) B
COS COR (A.A.S.) T S
OT = OR = OS (Corr. sides, 's)

5
BOT BOS (R.H.S.) O
OBT = OBS (Corr. s, 's) A

R
BO is the angle bisector of ABC. C

point.
(5) Using O as centre, OR as radius to draw a
circle.
2. Figure 2 shows a rectangle PQRS. Construct a square of area equal to that of a rectangle.
Reference: http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Geometry/construction/others/rectangle_into_rectangle.pdf
PQRS PQ = aQR = b
3 D c 5
E
(1) R RS QR
G P
(2) QG O QG S 1
(3) O OQ RS a 2
D QDDG
(4) R RD QR Q b O R G 4 F
F
(5) F FR D
DR E
(6) DEFE
GDQ = 90 ()
RG = RS = a
DRG ~ QRD ()
RG DR
= ()
DR QR
DR2 = ab (1)
RF = DR = DE = EF ()
DRF = 90 ()
DEFR PQRS ((1))
3. Figure 3 shows two line segments AB and AC intersecting at the point A. Construct two
circles of different sizes between them such that
(i) They touch each other at a point; and
(ii) the lines AB and AC are tangents to both circles.
A AB AC
(i)
(ii) AB AC
B
E
3
4
1
A G P H 6
Steps (Assume that BAC < 180, otherwise we cannot construct the circles touching BAC.)
(1) Draw the angle bisector AH of BAC.
(2) Choose any point P on AH. Construct a line through P and perpendicular to AH, intersecting
AB and AC at E and F respectively.
(3) Draw the angle bisector EG of AEF, intersecting AH at G.
(4) Draw the angle bisector EH of BEF, intersecting AH at H.
(5) Use G as radius, GP as radius to draw a circle.
(6) Use H as radius, HP as radius to draw another circle.
The two circles in steps (5) and (6) are the required circles satisfying the conditions.
Proof: Q G is the incentre of AEF and H is the excentre of AEF
The two circles in steps (5) and (6) are the incircle and the excircle satisfying the conditions.
Remark: The question Chinese version and English version have different meaning, so I have
changed it. The original question is:
A AB AC
(i)
(ii) AB AC
A suggested solution to the Chinese version is given as follows:
(1) AOB OU
(2) P OP
(3) D D OA OB E G

(4) D DE OP C F OC < OF
V
6
H2
H1 1
S 5
6
4
G Q 5
3
D 5 7
2 P
5 F 7
3 6
C 6
A
O E R T
(5) DF P DF Q
CD P CD U
(6) Q OA OB R S
U OA OB T V
(7) Q QR H1 U UT H2
4 OA OB E G
QOR = QOS ()
OQ = OQ ()
QRO = 90 = QSO ()
QOR QOS (A.A.S.)
QR = QS ()
H1 OA OB R S ()
ODG ~ OQS ODF ~ OQP ()
QS OQ OQ QP
= = ()
DG OD OD DF
QS QP
=
DG DF
Q DG = DF
QS = QP
H1 P
H2 OA OB T V P
Individual Events
4
I1 5 I2 I3 11 I4 6
3
55 24 45 5
6 3 45 7.5
33
16 7 81
64
Group Events
1 11
G1 area 48 G2 Product G3 Product G4 PZ 1.6
80 20
minimum 6 S17+S33+S50 1 Sum 1 x3y+2x2y2+xy3 5
remainder 0 Day 5 15 d 2
1
a100 30 5 product 2
10100
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Determine the area of the shaded region, , in the figure.
(Reference: 2011 FI1.1) x
Label the unmarked regions by x and y respectively.
1
3 + + y = area of //-gram = 4 + + x
2
y = x + 1 (1) y
1+x+3+3++y+4 +1 = area of //-gram = 2(4 + + x)
12 + x + y + = 8 + 2 + 2x (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): 12 + x + x + 1 + = 8 + 2 + 2x
=5
I1.2 If the average of 10 distinct positive integers is 2, what is the largest possible value of the
largest integer, , of the ten integers?
Let the 10 distinct positive integers be 0 < x1 < x2 < < x10, in ascending order.
x1 + x 2 + L + x10
= 2 5 = 10
10
x1 + x2 + + x9 + = 100
If is the largest possible, then x1, x2, , x9 must be as small as possible.
The least possible x1, x2, , x9 are 1, 2, 3, , 9.
The largest possible = 100 (1 + 2 + + 9) = 100 45 = 55
I1.3 Given that 1, 3, 5, 7, , and 1, 6, 11, 16, , + 1 are two finite sequences of positive
integers. Determine , the numbers of positive integers common to both sequences.
The two finite sequences are: 1, 3, 5, 7, , 55 and 1, 6, 11, 16, , 56.
The terms common to both sequences are 1, 11, 21, 31, 41, 51.
=6
I1.4 If log2 a + log2 b , determine the smallest positive value for a + b.
log2 a + log2 b 6
ab 26 = 64
( )2
a + b = a b + 2 ab 0 + 2 64 = 16
The smallest positive value of = 16
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Determine the positive real root, , of (x + x ) (x x ) = x.
( ) (x x )
2
x+ x =x

x + x 2 x2 x + x x = x
x = 2 x2 x
x2 = 4(x2 x)
3x2 = 4x
4
x = 0 (rejected) or
3
4
Check: When x = ,
3
4 4 4 4 4+2 3 42 3 3 +1 3 1 4
L.H.S. = + = = = = R.H.S.
3 3 3

3 3 3 3 3 3
4
=
3
I2.2 In the figure, two circles of radii 4 with their centres
4
placed apart by . Determine the area , of the shaded

region.
Let the centres of circles be A and B as shown. AB = 3
Suppose the two circles touches the two given line
segments at E, F, G, H as shown. Then EFGH is a
rectangle with FE = AB = GH = 3, EH = FG = 8 E F
= Area of semi-circle FIG + area of rectangle EFGH
area of semi-circle EDH
= Area of rectangle EFGH
= 38 = 24
C A B D I
H G
I2.3 Determine the smallest positive integer such that the equation x = 4 2 has an
integer solution in x.
x 24 = 4 2
x = 2 6 + 4 2
The smallest positive integer = 3
I2.4 Determine the unit digit, , of (( ) ) .

((3 ) ) = (3 ) = 3
3 3
3
9 3 27
The unit digit of 3, 32, 33, 34 are 3, 9, 7, 1 respectively.

This pattern repeats for every multiples of 4.
27 = 64 + 3
=7
Individual Event 3
1 2 3
I3.1 If the product of numbers in the sequence 1011 , 1011 , 1011 , , 1011 is 1 000 000,
determine the value of the positive integer .
1 2 3
10 10 10 10 = 106
11 11 11 11
1 2 3
+ + +L+ = 6
11 11 11 11
1
(1 + ) = 66
2
2 + 132 = 0
( 11)( + 12) = 0
= 11

I3.2 Determine the value of if + +L+ = .
1 2 3 2 3 4 8 9 10
Reference: 2003 HG1
1

1
=
(r + 2) r = 2 1
r (r + 1) (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 )
1 1 1
Put r = 1, = 2
1 2 2 3 1 2 3
1 1 1
Put r = 2, = 2
2 3 3 4 2 3 4
.........................................................
1 1 1
Put r = 8, = 2
8 9 9 10 8 9 10
Add these equations together and multiply both sides by and divide by 2:
1 1
= + + L + = = 11
2 2 9 10 1 2 3 2 3 4 8 9 10
= 45
I3.3 In the figure, triangle ABC has ABC = 2, AB = AD and

CB = CE. If = DBE, determine the value of .
Let ABE = x
ABC = 90
CBE = 90 x
ADB = x + (base s isos. )
CEB = CBE = 90 x (base s isos. )
In BDE, + x + + 90 x = 180 (s sum of )
= 45
I3.4 For the sequence 1, 2, 1, 2, 2, 1, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, , determine the sum of the first

terms.
= 1 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 ++ 2 + (5 terms) + 1 + 2 +
+ 2 (6 terms) + 1 + 2 ++ 2 (7 terms) + 1 + 2 + + 2 (8 terms) + 1
= 9 + 236 = 81
Individual Event 4
6 3
I4.1 If = 3 6 , determine the value of .
3 2 +2 3
6 3 3 2 2 3
=3 6
3 2 +2 3 3 2 2 3
3 2 2 3
6 3 =3 6
18 12
3 6 6 =3 6
=6
n
I4.2 Consider fractions of the form , where n is a positive integer. If 1 is subtracted from
n +1
both the numerator and the denominator, and the resultant fraction remains positive and is

strictly less than , determine, , the number of these fractions.
7
n 1 6
0< <
n 7
7n 7 < 6n and n > 1
1<n<7
Possible n = 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
=5
I4.3 The perimeters of an equilateral triangle and a regular hexagon are equal. If the area of the
triangle is square units, determine the area, , of the hexagon in square units.
x = 2y
equilateral triangles. x y
1 1
Ratio of areas = x 2 sin 60 o : 6 y 2 sin 60 o = 2 : 3
2 2
=5
3
= 5 = 7.5
2
3 5 9 17 33 65
I4.4 Determine the value of = + + + + + .
2 4 8 16 32 64
3 5 9 17 33 65 1
= + + + + + 7
2 4 8 16 32 64 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= + + + + + 1
2 4 8 16 32 64 2
33
=
64
Group Event 1
G1.1 If an isosceles triangle has height 8 from the base, not the legs, and perimeters 32, determine
the area of the triangle.
Let the isosceles triangle be ABC with AB = AC = y A
D is the midpoint of the base BC, AD BC, AD = 8

Let BD = DC = x
y 8 y
Perimeter = 2x + 2y = 32 y = 16 x (1)
x2 + 82 = y2 (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): x2 + 64 = 256 32x + x2 B x D x C
x = 6, y = 10
Area of the triangle = 48
6
1 6 1
x + x + 6 2
G1.2 If f(x) =
x x
3
where x is a positive real number, determine the minimum
1 3 1
x+ +x + 3
x x
value of f (x). Reference: 1979 American High School Mathematics Examination Q29
2
1 3 1
3 2
x + x + 3
x x 3
1 3 1 1
f(x) = 3
= x + x + 3 = 3 x +
1 3 1 x x x
x+ +x + 3
x x
2
1
f(x) = 3 x + 6 6
x
G1.3 Determine the remainder of the 81-digit integer 111L1 divided by 81.
Sum of digits = 1 + 1 + + 1 (81 times) = 81
111L1 is divisible by 81.
The remainder = 0
G1.4 Given a sequence of real numbers a1, a2, a3, that satisfy
1
1) a1 = , and
2
2) a1 + a2 + + ak = k2ak, for k 2.
Determine the value of a100. (Reference: 2013 HG10)
1 1 1
+ a2 = 22 a2 a2 = =
2 23 6
1 1 1 1
+ + a3 = 32 a3 a3 = =
2 6 3 4 12
1
Claim: an = for n 1
n (n + 1)
Pf: By M.I., n = 1, 2, 3, proved already.
1
Suppose ak = for some k 1
k (k + 1)
1 1 1
+ ++ + ak+1 = (k + 1)2ak+1
2 6 k (k + 1)
1 1 1
1 + + L +
1 1
( )
= k + 2k a k +1
2
2 2 3 k k +1
1 1 1
ak+1 = 1 = The statement is true for all n 1
k (k + 2 ) k + 1 (k + 1)(k + 2 )
1 1
a100 = =
100 101 10100
Group Event 2
1 1 1 1 1 1
G2.1 By removing certain terms from the sum, + + + + + , we can get 1. What is the
2 4 6 8 10 12
product of the removed term(s)?
1 1 1 1 3 1
+ + + = + =1
2 4 6 12 4 4
1 1
The removed terms are ; .
8 10
1
Product =
80
G2.2 If Sn = 1 2 + 3 4 + + (1)n1 n, where n is a positive integer,

determine the value of S17 + S33 + S50.
If n = 2m, where m is a positive integer,
S2m = (1 2) + (3 4) + + (2m 1 2m) = m
S2m+1 = m + 2m + 1 = m + 1
S17 + S33 + S50 = 9 + 17 25 = 1
G2.3 Six persons A, B, C, D, E and F are to rotate for night shifts in alphabetical order with A
serving on the first Sunday, B on the first Monday and so on. In the fiftieth week, which day
does A serve on? (Represent Sunday by 0, Monday by 1, , Saturday by 6 in your answer.)
507 = 350 = 658 + 2
B serves on Saturday in the fiftieth week.
A serves on Friday in the fiftieth week.
Answer 5.
G2.4 In the figure, vertices of equilateral triangle ABC are

connected to D in straight line segments with AB = AD.
If BDC = , determine the value of .
Reference: 2003 HG8, 2011 HG9
Use A as centre, AB as radius to draw a circle to pass
through B, C, D.
BAC = 2BDC ( at centre twice at ce)
60 = 2
= 30
Group Event 3
1 1 1
G3.1 Determine the value of the product 1 2 1 2 L1 2 .
2 3 10
Reference: 1986 FG10.4, 1999 FIS.4
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 2 1 2 L1 2 = 1 1 L 1 1 + 1 + L 1 +
2 3 10 2 3 10 2 3 10
1 2 3 9 3 4 11 1 11 11
= L L = =
2 3 4 10 2 3 10 10 2 20
1 1 1 1
G3.2 Determine the value of the sum + + +L+ ,
log 2 100! log 3 100! log 4 100! log100 100!
where 100! = 1009998321.
1 1 1 1
+ + +L+
log 2 100! log 3 100! log 4 100! log100 100!
log 2 log 3 log 4 log 100
= + + +L+
log 100! log 100! log 100! log 100!
log 100!
= =1
log 100!
G3.3 In the figure, ABCD is a square, ADE is an

equilateral triangle and E is a point outside of the
square ABCD. If AEB = , determine the value
of .
180 o 90 o 60 o
= (s sum of isos. )
2
= 15
G3.4 Fill the white squares in the figure with distinct non-zero
digits so that the arithmetical expressions, read both
horizontally and vertically, are correct. What is ?
=5
6 2 = 3
+
1 + 4 = 5
= =
7 8
Group Event 4
G4.1 In the figure below, ABCD is a square of side length 2. A
circular arc with centre at A is drawn from B to D. A
semicircle with centre at M, the midpoint of CD, is drawn
from C to D and sits inside the square. Determine the
shortest distance from P, the intersection of the two arcs, to
side AD, that is, the length of PZ.
Join AP, DP, MP.
Let F be the foot of perpendicular from P to CD.
Let AZ = x. Then DZ = 2 x = PF, DM = MP = 1
In AZP, AZ2 + ZP2 = AP2 (Pythagoras theorem)
ZP2 = 4 x2 (1)
In PMF, MF2 + PF2 = PM2 (Pythagoras theorem) A B
MF2 = 1 (2 x)2 = 4x x2 3 (2)
PZ = DF = 1 + MF 2
x
4 x2 = (1 + 4 x x 2 3 )2
4 x2 = 1 + 2 4 x x 2 3 + 4x x2 3
Z P
3 2x = 4 x x 2 3
9 12x + 4x2 = 4x x2 3 2-x
5x2 16x + 12 = 0 1
(5x 6)(x 2) = 0 D 1 C
M F
5
PZ = 4 x 2 = 4 1.2 2 = 2.56 = 1.6
Method 2 Let D be the origin, DC be the x-axis, DA be the y-axis.
Equation of circle DPC: (x 1)2 + y2 = 1 x2 2x + y2 = 0 (1)
Equation of circle BPD: x2 + (y 2)2 = 22 x2 + y2 4y = 0 (2)
(1) (2) y = x (3)
2
2
Sub. (3) into (1): x 2 2 x + x = 0 x = 0 (rejected) or 1.6 PZ = 1.6
4
5 +1 5 1
G4.2 If x= and y = determine the value of x3y + 2x2y2 + xy3.
2 2
5 1
xy = =1
4
x3y + 2x2y2 + xy3 = xy(x2 + 2xy + y2) = x2 + y2 + 2 =
1
(5 + 1 + 5 + 1) + 2 = 5
4
aabcd
G4.3 If a, b, c and d are distinct digits and d a a b c , determine the value of d.
2 014d
Consider the unit digit subtraction, c = 0 and there is no borrow digit in the tens digit.
Consider the tens digit, 10 + 0 b = 4 b = 6 and there is a borrow digit in the hundreds.
Consider the hundreds digit, 5 a = 1 a = 4 and there is no borrow digit in the thousands.
44602
Consider the ten thousands digit, 4 d = 2 d = 2; Check: 24460
2 0142
G4.4 Determine the product of all real roots of the equation x4 + (x 4)4 = 32.
Let t = x 2, then the equation becomes (t + 2)4 + (t 2)4 = 32
2(t4 + 24t2 + 16) = 32
t4 + 24t2 = 0
t2 = 0 or 24 (rejected)
t=0x=2
Product of all real roots = 2
12-13 1 61 33 2 180 3 30 4 25 5 2012

Individual 6 14 7 1 8 5 9 9 10 2
1 13 2 192 3 6039 4 8028 5 10
12-13
2
Group 6 6 7 6 8 130 9 671 10
2013
Individual Events
I1 Simplify 94 2 2013 .
94 2 2013 = 61 2 61 33 + 33
= ( 61 33 )
2
= 61 33
I2 A parallelogram is cut into 178 pieces of equilateral triangles with sides 1 unit. If the
perimeter of the parallelogram is P units, find the maximum value of P.
2 equilateral triangles joint to form a small parallelogram.
178 = 289
The given parallelogram is cut into 89 small parallelograms, and 89 is a prime number.
The dimension of the given parallelogram is 1 unit 89 units.
P = 2(1 + 89) = 180 units
a
In ABD, AD =
tan
AD 3a
In ACD, AC = =
tan 30 tan
o
3a
= 3a
tan
3
tan =
3
= 30
I4 Given that x2 + 399 = 2y, where x, y are positive integers. Find the value of x.
29 = 512, 512 399 = 113 x2
210 = 1024, 1024 399 = 625 = 252, x = 25
y = (x + 1)(x + 4)(x + 2)(x + 3) + 2013 = (x2 + 5x + 4)(x2 + 5x + 6) + 2013
= (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 24 + 2013 = (x2 + 5x)2 + 10(x2 + 5x) + 25 + 2012
= (x2 + 5x + 5)2 + 2012 2012
I6 In a convex polygon with n sides, one interior angle is selected. If the sum of the remaining
n 1 interior angle is 2013, find the value of n.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1990 FG10.3-4, 1992 HG3, 2002 FI3.4
1980 = 180(13 2) < 2013 < 180(14 2) = 2160
n = 14
I7 Figure 2 shows a circle passes through two points

B and C, and a point A is lying outside the circle.
Given that BC is a diameter of the circle, AB and
AC intersect the circle at D and E respectively and
area of ADE
BAC = 45, find .
area of BCED
In ACD, BAC = 45 (given) Figure 2
ADC = 90 (adj. on st. line, in semi-circle)
AD 1
= sin 45 = (1) B
AC 2
D
ADE = ACB (ext. cyclic quad.)
AED = ABC (ext. cyclic quad.)
DAE = CAB (common )
ADE ~ ACB (equiangular)
45
A
AD AE
= (corr. of sides, ~'s) (2) E C
AC AB
area of ADE 12 AD AE sin 45o AD

2
= = by (2)
area of ABC 12 AC AB sin 45o AC
2
1 1
= = by (1)
2 2
area of ADE
=1
area of BCED
I8 Solve 31 31 + x = x.
0 < 31 31 + x < 36 = 6 0 < x < 6
Then 31 31 + x = x 2
(31 x2)2 = 31 + x
x4 62x2 x + 312 31 = 0
(x4 x) 62x2 + 930 = 0
(x2 x)(x2 + x + 1) 62x2 + 930 = 0
We want to factorise the above equation as (x2 x + a)(x2 + x + 1 + b) = 0
a(x2 + x) + b(x2 x) = 62x2 LL (1) and a(1 + b) = 930 LL (2)
From (1), a + b = 62 LL (3), a b = 0 LL (4)
a = b = 31 LL (5), sub. (5) into (2): L.H.S. = 31(30) = 930 = R.H.S.
(x2 x 31)(x2 + x + 1 31) = 0
x2 x 31 = 0 or x2 + x 30 = 0
1 5 5 1+ 5 5
x= , , 5, 6.
2 2
1 5 5 1+ 5 5 1+ 125 1+ 121 1+ 11
< 0 and = > = =6
2 2 2 2 2
Q 0 < x < 6 x = 5 only.
Method 2
Let 31 + 31 y = y
(y2 31)2 = 31 y, then clearly y > x
and y = 31 + 31 y > 30.25 = 5.5
y4 62y2 + y + 930 = 0 (2)

(2) (1): y4 x4 62(y2 x2) + y + x = 0
(y + x)(y x)(y2 + x2) 62(y + x)(y x) + (y + x) = 0
(y + x)[(y x)(y2 + x2) 62(y x) + 1] = 0
Q y + x 0 (y x)(y2 + x2 62) + 1 = 0 (3)
Assume x and y are positive integers. Then (3) becomes
(y x)(y2 + x2 62) = 1 y x = 1 (4) and y2 + x2 62 = 1 (5)
From (4), y = x + 1 (6)
Sub. (6) into (5): (x + 1)2 + x2 62 = 1
x2 + 2x + 1 + x2 61 = 0
2x2 + 2x 60 = 0
x2 + x 30 = 0
I9 Figure 3 shows a pentagon ABCDE. AB = BC = DE = AE + CD = 3

and A = C = 90, find the area of the pentagon.
Draw the altitude BN DE.
Let AE = y, CD = 3 y
Cut ABE out and then stick the triangle to BC as shown in the figure.
ABE CBF (by construction)
CF = AE = y (corr. sides, 's)
DE = DF = 3
BD = BD (common side) A y E
BE = BF (corr. sides, 's) 3
N
BDE BDF (S.S.S.)
3
The area of the pentagon = area of BDE + area of BDF
D
= 2 area of BDF
1
= 2 3 3 B 3 3 -y
2
= 9 sq. units C
y
F
I10 If a and b are real numbers, and a2 + b2 = a + b. Find the maximum value of a + b.
2 2
1 1 1
a + b = a + b a + b =
2 2
(1)
2 2 2
2
1 1
a 2 b 2 0

2 2
1 1 1 1
a + b 2 a b 0
2 2 2 2
1 1 1
By (1), 2 a b 0
2 2 2
1 1 1
2 a b (2)
2 2 2
2
1 1
(a + b 1) = a + b
2
2 2
2 2
1 1 1 1
= a + b + 2 a b
2 2 2 2
1 1
+ = 1 (by (1) and (2))
2 2
(a + b 1)2 1
1 a + b 1 1
0a+b2
The maximum value of a + b = 2.
Group Events
G1 Given that the length of the sides of a right-angled triangle are integers, and two of them are
the roots of the equation x2 (m + 2)x + 4m = 0. Find the maximum length of the third side of
the triangle. Reference: 2000 FI5.2, 2001 FI2.1, 2010 FI2.2, 2011 FI3.1
Let the 3 sides of the right-angled triangle be a, b and c.
If a, b are the roots of the quadratic equation, then a + b = m + 2 and ab = 4m
4a + 4b = 4m + 8 = ab + 8
4a ab + 4b = 8
a(4 b) 16 + 4b = 8
a(4 b) 4(4 b) = 8
(a 4)(4 b) = 8
(a 4)(b 4) = 8
a4 b4 a b c
1 8 5 12 13
2 4 6 8 10
The maximum value of the third side is 13.
G2 Figure 1 shows a trapezium ABCD, where AB = 3, CD = 5 and

the diagonals AC and BD meet at O. If the area of AOB is 27,
find the area of the trapezium ABCD.
AB // DC
AOB ~ COD (equiangular)
Area of COD 5 Area of COD 25
2
= =
Area of AOB 3 27 9
Area of COD = 75
Area of AOD DO Area of AOD 5
= =
Area of AOB OB 27 3
Area of AOD = 45
Area of BOC CO Area of BOC 5
= =
Area of AOB OA 27 3
Area of BOC = 45
The area of the trapezium ABCD = 27 + 75 + 45 + 45 = 192
G3 Let x and y be real numbers such that x2 + xy + y2 = 2013.
Find the maximum value of x2 xy + y2.
2013 = x2 + xy + y2 = (x + y)2 xy
xy = (x + y)2 2013 0 2013 = 2013 (*)
Let T = x2 xy + y2
2013 = x2 + xy + y2 = (x2 xy + y2) + 2xy = T + 2xy
2xy = 2013 T 20132 by (*)
20133 T
The maximum value of x2 xy + y2 is 6039.
G4 If , are roots of x2 + 2013x + 5 = 0, find the value of (2 + 2011 + 3)(2 + 2015 + 7).
2 + 2013 + 5 = 0 2 + 2011 + 3 = 2 2
2 + 2013 + 5 = 0 2 + 2015 + 7 = 2 + 2
(2 + 2011 + 3)(2 + 2015 + 7) = (2 2)(2 + 2)
= 4( + 1)( + 1)
= 4( + + + 1)
= 4(5 2013 + 1) = 8028
G5 As shown in Figure 2, ABCD is a square of side 10 units, E and F

are the mid-points of CD and AD respectively, BE and FC
intersect at G. Find the length of AG.
Join BF and AG.
CE = DE = DF = FA = 5
Clearly BCE CDF BAF (S.A.S.)
Let CBG = x = ABF (corr. s 's)
BCE = 90
BCG = 90 x
BGC = 90 (s sum of ) D E C
Consider ABG and FBC.
AB
G
= cos x F
BF
ABG = x + FBG = FBC x
x
GB
= cos x A B
BC
ABG ~ FBC (ratio of 2 sides, included angle)
AB AG
= (corr. sides, ~s)
FB FC
Q FB = FC (corr. sides, CDF BAF)
AG = AB = 10
Method 2 Define a rectangle coordinate system with A = origin,
AB = positive x-axis, AD = positive y-axis.
B = (10, 0), C = (10, 10), E = (5, 10), D = (0, 10), F = (0, 5)
10 5
Equation of CF: y 5 = (x 0) y = 1 x + 5 LL (1)
10 0 2
10 0
Equation of BE: y 0 = (x 10) y = 2x + 20 LL (2)
5 10
1
(1) = (2): x + 5 = 2x + 20 x = 6
2
Sub. x = 6 into (1): y = 8
AG = 6 2 + 8 2 = 10
G6 Let a and b are positive real numbers, and the equations x2 + ax + 2b = 0 and x2 + 2bx + a = 0
have real roots. Find the minimum value of a + b.
Discriminants of the two equations 0
a2 8b 0 (1)
(2b)2 4a 0 b2 a 0 (2)
a2 8b a4 64b2 64a
a4 64a 0
a(a 4)(a2 + 4a + 16) 0
a(a 4)[(a + 2)2 + 12] 0
a(a 4) 0
a 0 or a 4
Q a > 0 a 4 only
When a = 4, sub. into (2): b2 4 0
(b + 2)(b 2) 0
b 2 or b 2
Q b > 0 b 2 only
The minimum value of a + b = 4 + 2 = 6
G7 Given that the length of the three sides of ABC form an arithmetic sequence, and are the
roots of the equation x3 12x2 + 47x 60 = 0, find the area of ABC.
Let the roots be a d, a and a + d.
a d + a + a + d = 12 a = 4 (1)
(a d)a + a(a + d) + (a d)(a + d) = 47
3a2 d2 = 47 d = 1 (2)
(a d)a(a + d) = 60 a3 ad2 = 60 (3)
Sub. (1) and (2) into (3): L.H.S. = 64 4 = 60 = R.H.S.
The 3 sides of the triangle are 3, 4 and 5.
1
The area of ABC = 3 4 = 6 sq. units.
2
G8 In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle with AB = AC,
BC = 240. The radius of the inscribed circle of ABC is 24.
Find the length of AB.
Let I be the centre. The inscribed circle touches AB and CA
at F and E respectively. Let AB = AC = x.
Let D be the mid-point of BC.
ABD ACD (S.S.S.) F A E
x
ADB = ADC = 90 24 24 x
corr. s, 's, adj. s on st. line 24
I
BC touches the circle at D 120 120
B D C
(converse, tangent radius)
ID = IE = IF = radii = 24
IEAC, IF AB (tangent radius)
AD = x 2 120 2 (Pythagoras' theorem)
SABC = SIBC + SICA + SIAB (where S stands for areas)
1 1 1 1
240 x 2 120 2 = 240 24 + x 24 + x 24
2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
10 x 2 120 2 = 240 + x + x
2 2 2 2
(x 120)(x + 120) = (120 + x )
2
5
5 x 120 = 120 + x
25(x 120) = 120 + x
24x = 25120 + 120 = 26120
AB = x = 265 = 130
G9 At most how many numbers can be taken from the set of integers: 1, 2, 3, , 2012, 2013
such that the sum of any two numbers taken out from the set is not a multiple of the difference
between the two numbers?
In order to understand the problem, let us take out a few numbers and investigate the property.
Take 1, 5, 9.
Take 3, 6, 8.
3 + 6 = 9, 6 3 = 3, 9 = 33
6 + 8 = 14, 8 6 = 2, 14 = 27
Take 12, 28, 40.
We can take three numbers 1, 5, 9 or 12, 28, 40 (but not 3, 6, 8).
T(n) + T(m) = 2n + 2m 2 = 2(n + m 1)
T(n) T(m) = 2n 2m = 2(n m)
T(n) + T(m) = [T(n) T(m)]k for some integer k. For example, 3 + 5 = 8 = (5 3)4.
The sequence 1, 3, 5, , 2013 does not satisfy the condition.
T(n) + T(m) = 3n + 3m 4 = 3(n + m 1) 1
T(n) T(m) = 3n 3m = 3(n m) T(n) + T(m) [T(n) T(m)]k for any non-zero integer k
We can take at most 671 numbers to satisfy the condition.
G10 For all positive integers n, define a function f as

(i) f (1) = 2012,
(ii) f (1) + f (2) + + f (n 1) + f (n) = n2 f (n)n > 1.
Find the value of f (2012).
f (1) + f (2 ) + L + f (n 1)
f (1) + f (2) + + f (n 1) = (n2 1)f (n) f (n) =
n2 1
f (1) 2012
f (2) = =
3 3
2012 1
2012 + 1+
f (1) + f (2) 3 = 3 2012 = 1 2012
f (3) = =
8 8 8 6
2012 2012 3
2012 + +
f (1) + f (2 ) + f (3) 3 6 = 2 2012 = 1 2012
f (4) = =
15 15 15 10
It is observed that the answer is 2012 divided by the nth triangle number.
2
Claim: f (n) = 2012 for n 1
n(n + 1)
n = 1, 2, 3, 4, proved above.
2
Suppose f (k) = 2012 for k = 1, 2, , m for some positive integer m.
k (k + 1)
2 2 2 1 1 2
+ + + + +L+
f (1) + f (2 ) + L + f (m ) 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 m(m + 1)
f (m+ 1) = = 2012
(m + 1) 1
2
m(m + 2 )
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 + + + L +
2 2 3 3 4 m m +1
=2 2012
m(m + 2 )
1
1
=2 m + 1 2012 = 2
2012
m(m + 2) (m + 1)(m + 2 )
It is also true for m. By the principle of mathematical induction, the formula is true.
2 2
f (2012) = 2012 =
2012 2013 2013
1. Line segment PQ and an angle of size are given below. Construct the isosceles triangle PQR
with PQ = PR and QPR = .
R
2 F
4
6
E D 1
2
7
3
J
5
H
P 3 Q
Steps. Let the vertex of the given angle be E.
1. Use P as centre, PQ as radius to draw a circular arc QR.
2. Use E as centre, a certain radius to draw an arc, cutting the given angle at D and F
respectively.
3. Use P as centre, the same radius in step 2 to draw an arc, cutting PQ a H.
4. Use D as centre, DF as radius to draw an arc.
5. Use H as centre, DF as radius to draw an arc, cutting the arc in step 3 at J.
6. Join PJ, and extend PJ to cut the arc in step 1 at R.
7. Join QR.
PQR is the required triangle.
2. Construct a rectangle with AB as one of its sides and with area equal to that of ABC below.
Theory
Let the height of the rectangle be h. C
Let the height of the triangle be k.
Q Area of rectangle = area of triangle
1
ABh = AB k
2
1
h= k Q 2 D P
2
The height of rectangle is half of
the height of the triangle. 3 4
A E B
1
Steps.
1. Draw a line segment CE AB. (E lies on AB, CE is the altitude of ABC)

2. Draw the perpendicular bisector PQ of CE, D is the mid-point of CE.
3. Draw a line segment AQ AB, cutting PQ and Q.
4. Draw a line segment BP AB, cutting PQ and P.

ABPQ is the required rectangle.
3. The figure below shows two straight lines AB and AC intersecting at the point A. Construct a
circle with radius equal to the line segment MN so that AB and AC are tangents to the circle.
Lemma:
AB B AB
A B
(1) C (C AB )CB
AB P
(2) PC Q BQ Q
BQ

C

PCQ ()
PBQ = 90 () A P B

Steps.
1. Draw the angle bisector AQ B
2. Use A as centre, MN as P S
radius to draw an arc.
3. Use the lemma to draw
AP AC, AP cuts the arc in 3 4
step 2 at P. 2
4. Draw PQ AP, PQ cuts Q

1
the angle bisector at Q. A
5. Draw QR PQ, QR cuts
AC at R.
6. Use Q as centre, QR as 5
radius to draw a circle. 6
This is the required circle. R

M N C
Proof:
ARQ = 90 (s sum of polygon)
APQR is a rectangle.
AC is a tangent touching the circle at R (converse, tangent radius)
Let S be the foot of perpendicular drawn from Q onto AB, QS AB.
AQR AQS (A.A.S.)
SQ = SR (corr. sides, 's)
S lies on the circle and QS AB
AB is a tangent touching the circle at S (converse, tangent radius)
Individual Events
SI P 30 I1 a 100 I2 a 3 I3 *a 2 I4 a 1
see the remark
*Q 120 b 5 b 600 b 7 b 7
see the remark
R 11 c 0 c 2 c 4 c 61
*S 1
72 d 2 d 36 d 4 d 69
see the remark
3
Group Events
SG q 3 G1 unit digit 5 G2 minimum r 1 G3 m3 n3 1387 G4 no. of digits 34
k 1 Integral part 1 s 24 Maximum 31 2000
1
w 25 24 t 0.5 ab 2519
3
3
p Greatest A 3 u 120 BC 9 A+B+C+D+E 15
2
Errata
FI1.2 "the remainder of ......... divided by" is changed into "the remainder when ......... is divided by"
FI1.4 "Find the maximum possible value of" is changed into "Find the value of"
FI2.2" (2b a) cm2" is changed into " (2b a) cm3"
FI3.1 "integer" is deleted, a a
FI3.3 "The remainder of 392 divided by" is changed into "The remainder when 392 is divided by"
xy 6 xy 6
FI4.4 2 is changed into 2
x y yx x y c 2 x y xy x y c 2
2 2
FG1.2 "integer" is changed into "integral"

FG1.4 "three-digit numbers how many" is changed into "three-digit numbers, how many".
FG2.4 wrong figure 1 on the internet
http://www.edb.gov.hk/attachment/tc/curriculum-development/kla/ma/res/sa/2012d.pdf
x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
P = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30
ADE = 120 (alt. s, AB // ED)
Q = 120
log1 F
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log1 F log 2121
R= = = 11
log 2 log 2
f R
R 1 f R 3
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f 11 10 9 8 f 8
S= = = 98 = 72
11 f 11 3 10 f 8
f R
R 1 f R 3
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Figure 1 has a rectangles, find the value of a.
Reference: 1993HG9
a = C25 C25 = 100
Figure 1
I1.2 Given that 7 divides 111111. If b is the remainder when 111111

111111
is divided by 7,
atimes
111111
111111
= 111111 110000 + 1111

100 times 96 times
= 111111 1000001
10000 + 7158 +5
1000001
16 '1' s
= 7m + 5, where m is an integer.
b=5
I1.3 If c is the remainder of b 2

4b 2
b 1
2b 2
bb
2
divided by 3, find the value of c.
5 2
4 5 25 = 3100 + 450 + 525
100 50
= 3100 + (3 + 1)50 + (32 1)25

= 3100 + 3m + 1 + 3n 1 (by binomial theorem, n, m are integers)
The remainder c = 0
I1.4 If |x + 1| + |y 1| + |z| = cfind the value of d = x2 + y2 + z2.

|x + 1| + |y 1| + |z| = 0
x = 1, y = 1 and z = 0
d = (1)2 + 12 + 02 = 2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Given that functions f (x) = x2 + rx + s and g(x) = x2 9x + 6 have the properties that the sum
of roots of f (x) is the product of the roots of g(x), and the product of roots of f (x) is the sum
of roots of g(x). If f (x) attains its minimum at x = a, find the value of a.
Let , be the roots of f (x).
+ = r = 6; = s = 9
f (x) = x2 6x + 9 = (x 3)2 + 0
f (x) attains the minimum value at x = a = 3
I2.2 The surface area of a cube is b cm2. If the length of each side is increased by 3 cm, its volume
is increased by (2b a) cm3, find the value of b.
Let the original length of each side be x cm.
Old surface area b cm2 = 6x2 cm2
Original volume = x3 cm3
New length of side = (x + 3) cm.
New volume = (x + 3)3 cm3
Increase in volume = [(x + 3)3 x3] cm3 = (2b a) cm3
9x2 + 27x + 27 = 2(6x2) 3
3x2 27x 30 = 0
x2 9x 10 = 0
(x 10)(x + 1) = 0
x = 10
b = 6x2 = 600
I2.3 Let f (1) = 3, f (2) = 5 and f (n + 2) = f (n + 1) + f (n) for positive integers n.
If c is the remainder of f (b) divided by 3, find the value of c.
f (1) = 3, f (2) = 5, f (3) = 8, f (4) = 13, f (5) = 21, f (6) = 34, f (7) = 55, f (8) = 89,
0, 2, 2, 1, 0, 1, 1, 2 (mod 3)
f (9) 0, f (10) 2, f (11) 2, f (12) 1, f (13) 0, f (14) 1, f (15) 1, f (16) 2 (mod 3)
When f (n) is divided by 3, the pattern of the remainders repeats for every 8 integers.
600 = 875
c=2
I2.4 In Figure 2, the angles of triangle XYZ satisfy
Z Y X and cX = 6Z.
If the maximum possible value of Z is d, find
the value of d.
2X = 6Z X = 3Z
Let Z = z, Y = y, X = 3z
z + y + 3z = 180 (s sum of )
y = 180 4z
Figure 2
Z Y X
z 180 4z 3z
180
z and z 36
7
d = the maximum possible value of z = 36
Individual Event 3
7 4 3 7 4 3
1 1
2 2
I3.1 If a = , find the value of a.
3
7 4 3 =
1
2
2 42 4 33= 4 3 =2 3
7 4 3 = 3
1
2
2 42 4 3 3= 4 =2 3
a=
2 3 2 3 = 2
3
Remark: The original question is: , find the integer value of a. a
As the value of a is exact, there is no need to emphasize the integer value of a.
I3.2 Suppose f (x) = x a and F(x, y) = y2 + x. If b = F(3, f (4)), find the value of b.
f ( x) = x 2
f (4) = 4 2 = 2
b = F(3, f (4))
= F(3, 2)
= 22 + 3 = 7
I3.3 The remainder when 392 is divided by a 2-digit positive integer is b. If c is the number of
such 2-digit positive integers, find the value of c.
392 7 = 385 = 577 = 5711
Possible 2-digit positive integer = 11, 35, 55 or 77
c=4
3x 2 3x c
I3.4 If x is a real number and d is the maximum value of the function y = 2 , find the
x x 1
value of d.
(x2 + x + 1)y = 3x2 + 3x + 4
(3 y)x2 + (3 y) + (4 y) = 0 (*), this is a quadratic equation in x.
3x 2 3x c
For any real value of x, y = 2 is a well-defined function
x x 1
(*) must have real roots in x.
= (3 y)2 4(3 y)(4 y) 0
(3 y)(3 y 16 + 4y) 0
(y 3)(3y 13) 0
13
3y
3
13
d = the maximum value of y =
3
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Let f (x) be a real value function that satisfies f (xy) = f (x) f (y) for all real numbers x and y
and f (0) 0. Find the value of a = f (1).
f (00) = f (0) f (0)
f (0) [f (0)]2 = 0
f (0)[1 f (0)] = 0
f (0) 0
f (0) = 1
f (0) = f (10) = f (1) f (0)
1 = f (1) a = f (1) = 1
F n F n 1 1
I4.2 Let F(n) be a function with F(1) = F(2) = F(3) = a and F(n + 1) = for
F n 2
positive integer n 3, find the value of b = F(6).
F 3 F 3 1 1 F 3 F 2 1 1 1 1
F(4) = F(3 + 1) = = = =2
F 3 2 F 1 1
F 4 F 4 1 1 F 4 F 3 1 2 1 1
F(5) = F(4 + 1) = = = =3
F 4 2 F 2 1
F 5 F 4 1 3 2 1
F(6) = = =7
F 3 1
I4.3 If b 6, b 5, b 4 are three roots of the equation x4 + rx2 + sx + t = 0,
find the value of c = r + t.
The three roots are 1, 2 and 3. Let the fourth root be .
+ 1 + 2 + 3 = 0 = 6
r = 61 62 63 + 12 + 13 + 23 = 25
t = 6123 = 36
c = r + t = 25 36 = 61
xy 6
I4.4 Suppose that (x0, y0) is a solution of the system: 2 .
x y xy x y c 2
2
Find the value of d = x02 y02 .

From (2): xy(x + y) + x + y 61 = 2
6(x + y) + (x + y) 63 = 0
x+y=9
d = x2 + y2 = (x + y)2 2xy = 92 26 = 69
q=3
4 3x
SG.2 Given that the equation x has k distinct real root(s), find the value of k.
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4

x y 7
SG.3 Given that x and y are non-zero real numbers satisfying the equations and
y x 12
x y 7
The first equation is equivalent to xy 12 xy = 144
xy 12
144 144
Sub. y = into x y = 7: x 7 x2 7x 144 = 0 (x + 9)(x 16) = 0
x x
x = 9 or 16; when x = 9, y = 16 (rejected x is undefined); when x = 16; y = 9
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
Method 2 The first equation is equivalent to xy 12 xy = 144 (1)
xy 12
x y = 7 and x + y = w
w7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w7 w7
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
From the given equation , we know that both x > 0 and y > 0
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
SG.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x y 2 1 0 . Let p = |x| + |y|, find the value
2
of p.
Reference: 2006 FI4.2 y2 + 4y + 4 + x y k = 0. If r = |xy|,
1
2
1 1 3
x = , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Find the unit digit of (213 + 1)(214 + 1)(215 + 1)(216 + 1).
210 = 1024, 211 = 2048, 212 = 4096, 213 = 8192, 214 = 16384, 215 = 32768, 216 = 65536
(213 + 1)(214 + 1)(215 + 1)(216 + 1) = 8193163853276965537 3597 5 (mod 10)
Unit digit = 5
G1.2 Find the integral part of 16 (0.40 + 0.41 + 0.42 + + 0.59).
0.40 + 0.41 + 0.42 + + 0.59 = 0.40 0.59 = 9.9
20
2
1 = 9.9 9.9 < 16 9.9 < 18 9 = 2
Integral part = 1
G1.3 Choose three digits from 1, 2, 4, 6, 7 to construct three-digit numbers. Of these three-digit
numbers, how many of them are divisible by 3?
126, 246, 147, 267 are divisible by 3.
The permutations of the digits of 126, 246, 147, 267 are also divisible by 3.
Total number of such integers = 3!4 = 24
G1.4 Using numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to form a six-digit number: ABCDEF such that A is divisible
by 1, AB is divisible by 2, ABC is divisible by 3, ABCD is divisible by 4, ABCDE is divisible
by 5, ABCDEF is divisible by 6. Find the greatest value of A.
Reference: http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Number_Theory/1234567890.pdf
ABCDE is divisible by 5 E = 5
(A, C) = (1, 3) or (3, 1)
AB is divisible by 2, ABCD is divisible by 4, ABCDEF is divisible by 6
B, D, F are even.
ABC is divisible by 3 1 + B + 3 is divisible by 3 B = 2
(D, F) = (4, 6) or (6, 4)
ABCD is divisible by 4 CD is divisible by 4
When C = 1, D = 6 (1)
When C = 3, D = 6 (2)
F=4
ABCDEF = A2C 654
Greatest value of A = 3
Group Event 2
G2.1 If 43 + 4r + 44 is a perfect square and r is a positive integer, find the minimum value of r.
43 + 4r + 44 = 22(42 + 4r1 + 43) = 22(80 + 4r1)
The least perfect square just bigger than 80 is 81 = 92.
4 r1 = 1 r = 1 The minimum value of r is 1.
G2.2 Three boys B1, B2, B3 and three girls G1, G2, G3 are to be seated in a row according to the
following rules:
1) A boy will not sit next to another boy and a girl will not sit next to another girl,
2) Boy B1 must sit next to girl G1
If s is the number of different such seating arrangements, find the value of s.
First, arrange the three boys in a line, there are 3! permutations.
One possible example is shown below:
B2 B1 B3
Label the empty positions (from left to right) as 1, 2, 3 and 4.
1 B2 2 B1 3 B3 4
If G1 is put at the left side of the B1 (as shown below), G2 and G3 can be put into position 1 or
3. There are 2! permutations for putting G2 and G3.
1 B2 G1 B1 3 B3 4
If G1 is put at the right side of the B1 (as shown below), G2 and G3 can be put into position 2
or 4. There are 2! permutations for putting G2 and G3.
1 B2 2 B1 G1 B3 4
Total number of sitting arrangements = s = 3!(2! + 2!) = 24
xa 1
G2.3 Let f (x) = , where x is a real number and the maximum value of f (x) is and the
1 2
x
2
2
minimum value of f (x) is 1. If t = f (0), find the value of t.
x a 2 x 2a
Let y = = 2 2yx2 + y = 2x + 2a (2y)x2 2x + (y 2a) = 0
1 2x 1
x2
2
For real values of x, = (2)2 4(2y)(y 2a) 0
1 (2y2 4ay) 0 2y2 4ay 1 0 (*)
1
Given that 1 y (y + 1)(2y 1) 0 2y2 + y 1 0 (**)
2
1
(*) is equivalent to (**) a =
4
1 1
x
f (x) = 4 ; t = f (0) = 4 = 1
1 1 2
x2
2 2
G2.4 In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle with
ABC = u, AB = BC = a and AC = b. If the
quadratic equation ax 2 2 bx a 0 has two
real roots, whose absolute difference is 2 , find
the value of u.
Let the roots be , . Figure 3
| | = 2 ( )2 = 2
( + )2 4 = 2
2
2b

a 4 2 b = 3a
2 2

a 2 a 2 b 2 2a 2 3a 2 1
cos u = 2
= 2
=
2a 2a 2
u = 120
Group Event 3
G3.1 If m and n are positive integers with m2 n2 = 43, find the value of m3 n3.
(m + n)(m n) = 43, which is a prime number.
m n 43
m n 1 m = 22, n = 21

m3 n3 = (m n)(m2 + mn + n2) = 1[(m + n)2 mn] = 432 2221 = 1849 462 = 1387
G3.2 Let x1, x2, , x10 be non-zero integers satisfying 1 xi 2 for i = 1, 2, , 10.
If x1 + x2 + + x10 = 11, find the maximum possible value for x12 x22 x102 .
In order to maximize x12 x22 x102 , the number of 2 appeared in x1, x2, , x10 must be as
many as possible and the remaining numbers should be 1.
Let the number of 2 be n and the number of 1 be 10 n.
2n 1(10 n) = 11
n=7
Maximum = 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 22 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 31
G3.3 If f (n) = an + bn, where n is a positive integer and f (3) = [f (1)]3 + f (1),
find the value of ab.
f (1) = a + b
f (3) = (a + b)3 + a + b = a3 + b3
a2 + 2ab + b2 + 1 = a2 ab + b2
3ab = 1
1
ab =
3
G3.4 In Figure 4, AD, BC and CD are tangents to the circle with centre
at O and diameter AB = 12. If AD = 4, find the value of BC.
Suppose CD touches the circle at E. Let BC = x.
DE = 4 and CE = x (tangent from ext. point)
From D, draw a line segment DF // AB, cutting BC at F.
DAB = ABC = 90 (tangent radius)
DFC = 90 (corr. s AB // DC)
ABFD is a rectangle. Figure 4
DF = 12, BF = 4 (opp. sides of rectangle)
A 4 D
CF = x 4
In CDF, (x 4)2 + 122 = (x + 4)2 (Pythagoras' theorem) 4
x2 8x + 16 + 144 = x2 + 8x + 16 12 12 E
144 = 16x O
BC = x = 9 x
F x-4
B 4 C
x
Group Event 4
G4.1 In P be the product of 3,659,893,456,789,325,678 and 342,973,489,379,256 , find the number
of digits of P.
3,659,893,456,789,325,678 = 3.71018 (correct to 2 sig. fig.)
342,973,489,379,256 = 3.41014 (correct to 2 sig. fig.)
P 3.710183.41014 = 12.581032 = 1.2581033
The number of digits is 34.
1 1 1 7 2013 x
G4.2 If 4 , find the value of 1872 48 .
4 2013 x 4 x 2013
x 2013 3
4
2013x 2
2013 x 8

x 2013 3
2013x 8
1872 48 = 1872 48 = 1872 + 128 = 2000
x 2013 3
G4.3 The remainders of an integer when divided by 10, 9, 8, , 2 are 9, 8, 7, , 1 respectively.
Find the smallest such an integer.
Let the integer be N.
N + 1 is divisible by 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2.
The L.C.M. of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 is 2520.
G4.4 In Figure 5, A, B, C, D, E represent different digits.
Find the value of A + B + C + D + E.
9E E (mod 10) E = 0 or 5
Consider the multiplication of ten thousands digit
Figure 5
9A + carry digit = 10 + A A = 1 or 2
Possible products are 122205, 111105, 122200, 111100.
Of these 4 numbers, only 111105 is divisible by 9.
ABCDE = 1111059 = 12345
A + B + C + D + E = 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 = 15
1 9 2 504510 3 8 4 23 5 8
11-12
293 21 2041 16
Individual 6 (= 8 ) 7 6 8 4 9 x = 13, y = 2 10 (= 81 = 81.64)
34 34 25 25
11-12 1 6 2 2037 3 2 + 21006 4 2 503 1 5 2012

Group 6 16 7 10 8 see*124
the remark
9 180 10 5
Individual Events
I1 Find the value of the unit digit of 22 + 32 + 42 + + 201220122. (Reference: 1996 HG10)
12 + 22 + 32 + + 102 1 + 4 + 9 + 6 + 5 + 6 + 9 + 4 + 1 + 0 (mod 10)
5 (mod 10)
2 + 3 + 4 + + 201220122
2 2 2
(12 ++ 102) + + (201220012 ++ 201220102) + 201220112 + 201220122 12 (mod 10)

52012201 + 1 + 4 1 (mod 10)
9 (mod 10)
I2 Given that a, b and c are positive even integers which satisfy the equation a + b + c = 2012.
How many solutions does the equation have?
Let a = 2p, b = 2q, c = 2r, where p, q, r are positive integers.
a + b + c = 2012 2(p + q + r) = 2012 p + q + r = 1006
The question is equivalent to find the number of ways to put 1006 identical balls into 3
different boxes, and each box must contain at least one ball.
Align the 1006 balls in a row. There are 1005 gaps between these balls. Put 2 sticks into three
of these gaps, so as to divide the balls into 3 groups.
| LL |
The three boxes contain 2 balls, 1003 balls and 1 ball. p = 2, q = 1003, r = 1.
1005 1004
The number of ways is C21005 = = 504510.
2
I3 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square. The coordinates of B and
D are (5, 1) and (3, 3) respectively. If A(a, b) lies in the
first quadrant, find the value of a + b.
MB2 = MA2 (a 1)2 + (b 1)2 = (5 1)2 + (1+ 1)2 = 20
a2 + b2 2a 2b 18 = 0 (1)
b 1 1 1
MA MB = 1
a 1 5 1
b = 2a 1 (2)
Sub. (2) into (1): a2 + (2a 1)2 2a 2(2a 1) 18 = 0
5a2 10a 15 = 0 a2 2a 3 = 0 (a 3)(a + 1) = 0
a = 3 or 1(rejected)
b = 2(3) 1 = 5
a+b=3+5=8
3 ( 1) 1 b3
Method 2 mBD = = ; mAD =
35 2 a +3
Q BDA = 45 tan 45 = 1
b 3 mBD + tan 45o 12 + 1 1
mAD = = = =
a + 3 1 mBD tan 45 1 ( 2 ) 1 3
o 1
3b 9 = a + 3 3b a = 12 (1)
Mid-point of BD = M(1, 1) b = 2a 1 (2) (similar to method 1)
Solving (1) and (2) gives a = 3, b = 5 a + b = 8
Method 3 by Mr. Jimmy Pang from Lee Shing Pik College y y'
A = A'
Translate the coordinate system by x = x 1, y = y 1
D(-3, 3) = D'
The new coordinate of M is M = (1 1,1 1) = (0, 0)
x'
M(1, 1)=M'(0,0)
The new coordinate of B is B = (5 1, 1 1) = (4, 2) x
O
Rotate B about M in anticlockwise direction through 90 B(5, -1) = B'
The new coordinate of A = (2, 4)

C = C'
Translate the coordinate system by x = x + 1, y = y + 1
The old coordinate of A = (2 + 1, 4 + 1) = (3, 5) = (a, b)
a+b=8
2202512 = 220524 = 102054 = 6251020
1 1 1
I5 Given that log4 N = 1 + + + + L , find the value of N. (Reference: 1994 HI1)
3 9 27
1 1 1 1 3 1
log4 N = 1 + + + + L = 1 = (sum to infinity of a geometric series, a = 1, r = .)
3 9 27 1 3 2 3
3
N =4 2 = 8
a b
the value of + . (Reference: 1996 HG8, 1996FG7.1, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2)
b a
Q a and b are prime number and all prime number except 2, are odd.
a = 2, b = 17 (or a = 17, b = 2)
a b 17 2 293 21
+ = + = (= 8 )
b a 2 17 34 34
I7 Given that a, b and c are positive numbers, and a + b + c = 9. Suppose the maximum value
among a + b, a + c and b + c is P, find the minimum value of P.
WLOG assume that a + b = P, a + c P, c + a P.
18 = 2(a + b + c) = (a + b) + (b + c) + (c + a) 3P
6P
The minimum value of P is 6.
= (14k + 4)2 4(48) (k2 4) = 22[(7k + 2)2 48k2 + 192] = 22(k2 + 28k + 196) = [2(k + 14)]2
14k + 4 + [2(k + 14)] 7 k + 2 + k + 14 8k + 16 6k 12

2
8 6
= ,= 2
(
2 k 4
2
) =
k 4
2
= 2 =
k 4 k 2
=
k 4 k +2
.

k 2 = 1, 2, 4, 8 and k + 2 = 1, 2, 3, 6
k = 3, 4, 6, 10 and k = 1, 0, 1, 4
k = 4 only
8 6
Q k 2 and k 2 x = or
k 2 k +2
I9 Given that x, y are positive integers and x > y, solve x3 = 2189 + y3.
x3 y3 = (x y)(x2 + xy + y2) = 2189 = 11199 and both 11 and 199 are primes.
x2 + xy + y2 = (x y)2 + 3xy
xy (x y)2 + 3xy xy x y
1 2189 = 1 + 3xy 729.33 (rejected)
11 199 = 121 + 3xy 26 13 2
199 11 = 1992 + 3xy (rejected)
2
2189 1 = 2189 + 3xy (rejected)
x = 13, y = 2

AB = 14 + 7 = 21, BC = 10 + 10 = 20
AB2 + BC2 = 212 + 202 = 841 = 292 = AC2
1 1 20 7
20 a sin + a 7 cos =
2 2 2
20a sin + 7a cos = 140 (1)
1 1 10 21
21 a cos + a 10 sin =
2 2 2
21a cos + 10a sin = 210 (2)
2(2) (1): 35 a cos = 280
a cos = 8 (3)
3(1) (2): 50 a sin = 210
21
a sin = (4)
5
2
21 2041 16
(3)2 + (4)2: BF2 = a2 = 82 + = (= 81 = 81.64)
5 25 25
20
Regard B as the origin, BC as the x-axis, BA as the
y-axis, then d = 10i, c = 20i, e = 7j, a = 21j
Suppose F divides AD in the ratio p and 1 p.
15
Also, F divides EC in the ratio t : 1 t.
f = p d + (1 p) a = 10pi + 21(1 p)j (1)
f = t c + (1 t) e = 20ti + 7(1 t)j (2) p 29
10
Compare coefficients:
10p = 20t and 21(1 p) = 7(1 t) E
p = 2t (3) and 3(1 p) = 1 t (4)
2 5 t F
3(3) + (4): 3 = 5t + 1 t =
5
2 2 1-p1-t C
BF2 = | f |2 = |20( )i + 7(1 )j|2
5 5 B D
10 20
2
21 2 21 2041
= |8i + )j| = 82 + =
5 5 25
Method 3 ABC = 90 (converse, Pythagoras theorem, similar to method 1)

Regard B as the origin, BC as the x-axis, BA as the y-axis, then
x y x y
Equation of AD: + = 1 (1); equation of EC: + = 1 (2)
10 21 20 7
5y 21 x
2(2) (1): = 1 y = ; 3(1) (2): =2x =8
21 5 4
2
2 2 2 21 2041
2 16
BF = x + y = 8 + = (= 81 = 81.64)
5 25 25
Join BF. Let AF = x, FD = y, BF = z, ADB =
x + y = AD = 212 + 102 = 541 (Pythagoras theorem)
Apply Menelaus theorem on ABD with EFC. 14
AE BC DF
= 1 x 29
EB CD FA
14 20 y y 1
= 1 = E
7 10 x x 4
t F
x+ y 541 7
y= = (1) z
5 5 y
C
10 10
Apply cosine formula on BDF B D
z2 = 102 + y2 20y cos
2
541 541 10 541 2041
= 100 + 20
= 100 + 40 =
5 5 541 25 25
1
Area of ABC = 2120 = 210
2
Area of ABD : area of ADC = 1 : 1 = Area of BDF : area of DCF
Area of ABF : area of ACF = 1 : 1
Area of CEB : area of CEA = 1 : 2 = Area of FEB : area of FEA
Area of CFB : area of CFA = 1 : 2
Area of ABF : area of ACF : area of BCF = 2 : 2 : 1
1
Area of BCF = 210 = 42
2 + 2 +1
42 2
Distance from F to BC = = 4.2
20
2
Area of ABF = 210 = 84
2 + 2 +1
84 2
Distance from F to AB = =8
14 + 7
BF2 = 82 + 4.22 = 81.64 (Pythagoras theorem)
Group Events
y z x z x y
G1 Given that x, y and z are three consecutive positive integers, and + + + + + is an
x x y y z z
integer. Find the value of x + y + z.
x = y 1, z = y + 1
y z x z x y y + y + 1 y 1 + y +1 y 1 + y
+ + + + + = + +
x x y y z z y 1 y y +1
=
(2 y + 1) y( y + 1) + 2 y( y 2 1) + (2 y 1) y( y 1)
( y 1) y( y + 1)
2 y3 + 3 y 2 + y + 2 y3 2 y + 2 y3 3y 2 + y 6 y3 6 y2
= = =
( y 1) y( y + 1) ( y 1) y( y + 1) y 2 1
Clearly y2 1 does not divide y2, so y + 1 and y 1 are factors of 6.
y 1 = 1 y = 2, y + 1 = 3 x + y + z = 6
y 1 = 2 y = 3, but y + 1 = 4 which is not a factor of 6, rejected.
y 1 = 3 or 6 are similarly rejected.
Method 2 x = y 1, z = y + 1
y z x z x y y + y + 1 y 1 + y +1 y 1 + y 3 3
+ + + + + = + + =6+
x x y y z z y 1 y y +1 y 1 y +1
3 3
is an integer y > 1 (1); is an integer y 2 (2)
y 1 y +1
Solving (1) and (2) gives y = 2, x = 1, z = 3 x + y + z = 6
G2 Given that x is a real number and x 2012 + (5 x )2 = x . Find the value of x.
If 5 x, the equation is equivalent to x 2012 + 5 x = x
x 2012 = 2 x 5
x 2012 = 4x2 20x + 25
4x2 21x + 2037 = 0
= 212 4(4)(2037) < 0 no real solution, rejected
If 5 < x, then the equation becomes x 2012 + x 5 = x
x 2012 = 25
x = 2037
G3 Evaluate 2 2 + 21008 + 2 2012 . (Answer can be expressed in index form.)
2 2 + 21008 + 2 2012 = 2 1 + 21006 + 2 2010
(
= 2 1 + 2 21005 + 21005 )
2
= 2 1 + 21005 ( )2
= 2 + 21006.
1 1 1 1
G4 Evaluate + +L+ + .
2012 + 2011 2011 + 2010 3+ 2 2+ 1
(Answer can be expressed in surd form.)
1 1 1 1
+ +L+ +
2012 + 2011 2011 + 2010 3+ 2 2+ 1
2012 2011 2011 2010 3 2 2 1
= + +L+ +
2012 2011 2011 2010 3 2 2 1
= 2012 1
= 2 503 1
G5 Find the minimum value of x2 + y2 10x 6y + 2046.

x2 + y2 10x 6y + 2046
= (x 5)2 + (y 3)2 + 2012 2012
G6 In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle. Suppose AB = AC = 12.
If D is a point on BC produced such that DAB = 90 and CD = 2,
find the length of BC.
Let ABC = = ACB (base , isos. )
ACD = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
BD = 12 sec
BC = 212 cos = BD 2 = 12 sec 2
12 cos2 + cos 6 = 0
(3 cos 2)(4 cos + 3) = 0
2 3
cos = or (rejected)
3 4
BC = 212 cos = 16
Method 2 Draw AE BD. A
ABE ACE (R.H.S.) Let BE = x = EC.
x 12 x 6
cos B = = = 12
12 2 x + 2 12 x + 1 12
2
x + x 72 = 0
B x E x C D
2
(x 8)(x + 9) = 0
x=8
BC = 2x = 16
1 1 1 1
G7 Given that ax = by = cz = 30w and + + = , where a, b, c are positive integers (a b c)
x y z w
and x, y, z, w are real numbers, find the value of a + b + c.
log ax = log by = log cz = log 30w
x log a = y log b = z log c = w log 30
1 1 1 1 log a log b log c log abc
= + + = + + =
w x y z w log 30 w log 30 w log 30 w log 30
abc = 30
Q a 1 and b 1 (otherwise x log a = y log b = z log c = w log 30 0 = w log 30 w = 0)
a = 2, b = 3, c = 5
a + b + c = 10
G8 Given that the roots of the equation x2 + px + q = 0 are integers and q > 0.
If p + q = 60, find the value of q.
Let the roots be and . Remark the original question is: Given that the
roots of the equation x2 + px + q = 0 are integers
+ = p (1)
and p, q > 0. If p + q = 60, find the value of q.
= q > 0 (2)
+ = p < 0 (1), = q > 0 (2)
p + q = 60
< 0 and < 0 and ( 1)( 1) = 61
( + ) + = 60
1 = 1, 1 = 61 = 0, = 60
1 (1 ) = 61
= q = 0 (rejected), no solution
( 1)( 1) = 61, which is a prime
1 = 1, 1 = 61 or 1 = 1, 1 = 61
When 1 = 1, 1 = 61
= 0, = 60
= q = 0 (contradicting to the given condition q > 0, rejected)
1 = 1, 1 = 61
= 2, = 62, q = = 124
G9 Evaluate sin2 1 + sin2 2 + sin2 3 + + sin2 359 + sin2 360.

sin2 1 + sin2 89 = sin2 1 + cos2 1 = 1
sin2 2 + sin2 88 = sin2 2 + cos2 2 = 1
.................................................................
sin2 44 + sin2 46 = sin2 44 + cos2 44 = 1
= 44.5
sin2 1 + sin2 2 + sin2 3 + + sin2 359 + sin2 360.
= 44.5 + sin2 90 + 44.5 + 0 + 44.5 + sin2 270+ 44.5 + 0 = 180
G10 In a gathering, originally each guest will shake hands with every other guest, but Steven only
shakes hands with people whom he knows. If the total number of handshakes in the gathering
is 60, how many people in the gathering does Steven know? (Note: when two persons shake
hands with each other, the total number of handshakes will be one (not two).)
Suppose there are n persons and Steven knows m persons (where n > m).
If everyone shakes hands with each other, then the total number of hand-shaking = C2n
In this case, Steven shakes hands with n 1 persons. However, he had made only m
hand-shaking.
C2n (n 1) + m = 60
n(n 1)
n + m = 59
2
n2 n 2n + 2m = 118
n2 3n 118 = n2 3n + 2m < n2 3n + 2n = n2 n
n2 3n 118 0 and n2 n 118 > 0
9.5 n 12.5 and (n < 10.4 or n > 11.4)
11.4 < n 12.5
For integral value, n = 12
12 11
(12 1) + m = 60
2
m=5
1. In the space provided, construct an equilateral triangle ABC with sides equal to the length of
MN below.
C
(1) AB AB = MN
(2) A AB B BA
C
(3) AC BC
A B
ABC
2. As shown in Figure 1, construct a circle inside the triangle ABC, so that AB, BC and CA are
tangents to the circle.
(1) ABC A
(2) ACB P
T
(3) AP 4
3
4 S
(4) P BCAC ABRST 5
P 2
BPR BPT
1
(A.A.S.)
CPR CPS (A.A.S.) B R C
PT = PR = PS ()
(5) P BC R P PR
(inscribed
circle)()
3. Figure 2 shows a triangle PQR. Construct a line MN parallel to QR so that
(i) M and N lie on PQ and PR respectively; and
1
(ii) the area of PMN = the area of PQR.
2
MN QR P
QPR = MPN ()
PQR = PMN (QR // MN, )
PRQ = PNM (QR // MN, )
PQR ~ PMN ()
2
PMN 1 PM N
= = M
PQR 2 PQ
PM 1 PQ
= PM = Q R
PQ 2 2
: 2 P
(1) PQ O
(2) O OP = OQ
F
F 1
3
PFQ = 90 () O
M N
PFQ
QPF = 45
Q R
PQ
PF = PQ sin 45 =
2
PQ
(3) P PF PQ MPM =
2
(4) M QR PR NPMN PQR

1 34.48% 2 12.58% 3 32.66% 4 35.40% 5 30.73%
6 30.83% 7 42.19% 8 13.08% 9 25.96% 10 4.26%
1 57.49% 2 35.22% 3 38.06% 4 48.99% 5 53.44%
6 18.62% 7 16.60% 8 6.07% 9 30.77% 10 42.51%
Individual Events
SI P 30 I1 A 12 I2 P 5 I3 45 I4 A 22 IS P 95
*Q
see the remark
120 B 108 Q 12 56 B 12 Q 329
R 11 *C
see the remark
280 R 3 23 C 12 *R
see the remark
6
*S
see the remark
72 D 69 S 17 671 D 7 S 198
Group Events
BD *m
SG q 3 G1 tens digit 1 G2 2 G3 z 6 G4 2 GS 4
CE see the remark
k 1 *P 1031 K 2 *r 540 Q 1 v 6
see the remark see the remark
w 25 k 21 l 45 D 998 R 1 3
3 *SBCD 1 *F2012(7) 1
p 32 see the remark x5 5 F 208
2 see the remark
4 see the remark

x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
P = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30

ADE = 120 (alt. s, AB // ED)
Q = 120
log(1 + F )
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log(1 + F ) log 2121
R= = = 11
log 2 log 2

f (R )
(R 1) f (R 3)
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f (11) 10 9 8 f (8)
S= = = 98 = 72
(11) f (11 3) 10 f (8)
f (R )
(R 1) f (R 3)
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If A is the sum of the squares of the roots of x4 + 6x3 + 12x2 + 9x + 2, find the value of A.
Let f (x) = x4 + 6x3 + 12x2 + 9x + 2 By division,
f (1) = 1 6 + 12 9 + 2 = 0 x 2 + 3x + 1
f (2) = 16 48 + 48 18 + 2 = 0
x 2 + 3 x + 2 x 4 + 6 x 3 + 12 x 2 + 9 x + 2
By factor theorem, (x + 3x + 2) is a factor of f (x).
2
x4 3x3 + 2 x 2
x4 + 6x3 + 12x2 + 9x + 2 = (x + 1)(x + 2)(x2 + 3x + 1)
The roots are 1, 2 and , ; where + = 3, = 1 3 x 3 + 10 x 2 + 9 x
A = (1)2 + (2)2 + 2 + 2 = 5 + ( + )2 2 3x3 + 9 x 2 + 6 x
=5+92 x 2 + 3x + 2
A = 12 x 2 + 3x + 2
Method 2 By the change of subject, let y = x2, then the equation becomes
x4 + 12x2 + 2 = x(6x2 + 9) y 2 + 12 y + 2 = m y (6 y + 9 )
(y2 + 12y + 2)2 y(6y + 9)2 = 0
Coefficient of y4 = 1, coefficient of y2 = 24 36 = 12
If , , and are the roots of x, then 2, 2, 2 and 2 are the roots of y
coefficient of y 3
2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = = 12
coefficient of y 4
Method 3
Let , , and are the roots of x, then by the relation between roots and coefficients,
+ + + = 6 LL (1)
+ + + + + = 12 LL (2)
2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = ( + + + )2 2( + + + + + )
= (6)2 2(12) = 12
I1.2 Let x, y, z, w be four consecutive vertices of a regular A-gon. If the length of the line segment
xy is 2 and the area of the quadrilateral xyzw is a + b , find the value of B = 2a3b.
Let O be the centre of the regular dodecagon. x 2
Let Ox = r = Oy = Oz = Ow y
o
360
xOy = yOz = zOw = = 30 (s at a point) z
12
In xOy, r2 + r2 2r2 cos 30 = 22 (cosine rule)
(2 3 )r2 = 4 r2 =
2 3
4
(
=4 2 + 3 ) O
w
Area of xyzw = area of Oxyzw area of Oxw

1 1 3 1
( )
= 3 r 2 sin 30o r 2 sin 90o = 4 2 + 3 = 2 + 3
2 2 4 2
a = 2, b = 3, B =2 3 = 427 = 108
2 3
I1.3 If C is the sum of all positive factors of B, including 1 and B itself, find the value of C.
108 = 2233
C = (1 + 2 + 22)(1 + 3 + 32 + 33) = 740 = 280
Remark: Original version: CB If C is the sum of all factors L
Note that if negative factors are also included, then the answer will be different.
D
I1.4 If C! = 10 k, where D and k are integers such that k is not divisible by 10, find the value of D.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FG1.3
Method 1 Method 2
When each factor of 5 is multiplied by 2, a trailing We can find the total number of factors of 5 by
zero will appear in n!. division as follow:
The number of factors of 2 is clearly more than 5 2 8 0 Total no. of factors of 5 is
the number of factors of 5 in 280! 5 5 6 56 + 11 + 2 = 69
It is sufficient to find the number of factors of 5. 5 1 1 1 D = 69
5, 10, 15, , 280; altogether 56 numbers, each 2 1
have at least one factor of 5.
25, 50, 75, , 275; altogether 11 numbers, each
have at least two factors of 5.
125, 250; altogether 2 numbers, each have at least
three factors of 5.
Total number of factors of 5 is 56 + 11 + 2 = 69
D = 69
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If the product of the real roots of the equation x2 + 9x + 13 = 2 x 2 + 9 x + 21 is P, find the
value of P.
Let y = x2 + 9x, then the equation becomes y + 13 = 2 y + 21
(y + 13)2 = 4y + 84
y2 + 26y + 169 4y 84 = 0
y2 + 22y + 85 = 0
(y + 17)(y + 5) = 0
y = 17 or y = 5
Check put y = 17 into the original equation: 17 + 13 = 2 17 + 21
LHS < 0, RHS > 0, rejected
Put y = 5 into the original equation: LHS = 5 + 13 = 2 5 + 21 = RHS, accepted
x2 + 9x = 5
x 2 + 9x + 5 = 0
Method 2
Let y = x 2 + 9 x + 21 0
Then the equation becomes y2 8 = 2y y2 2y 8 = 0
(y 4)(y + 2) = 0 y = 4 or 2 (rejected)
x2 + 9x + 21 = 16
x2 + 9x + 5 = 0
= 92 4(5) > 0
25 x 1 2 24
I2.2 If f (x) = x and Q = f + f + L + f , find the value of Q.
25 + P 25 25 25
25 x 251 x 25 + 5 25 x + 25 + 5 251 x
f ( x ) + f (1 x ) = x + 1 x = =1
25 + 5 25 + 5 25 + 5 251 x + 5 25 x + 25
1 2 24
Q = f + f +L+ f
25 25 25
1 24 2 23 12 13
= f + f + f + f + L + f + f = 12
25 25 25 25 25 25
I2.3 If X = (100)(102)(103)(105) + (Q 3) is an integer and R is the units digit of X, find the value
of R.
Reference: 1993 HG6, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1
Let y = 102.5, then
(100)(102)(103)(105) + (12 3)
= (y 2.5)(y 0.5)(y + 0.5)(y + 2.5) + 9
= (y2 6.25)(y2 0.25) + 9
25 169
= y4 6.5y2 + + 9 = y4 6.5y2 +
16 16
2 2 2
13 13 2052 13
= y 2 = 102.52 =
4 4 4 4
420252 13
X= = 10503
4
Method 2 X = (100 )(102)(103)(105) + 9 = (100)(100 + 5)(100 + 2)(100 + 3) + 9
( )( ) ( )2
( )
= 100 2 + 500 1002 + 500 + 6 + 9 = 100 2 + 500 + 6 100 2 + 500 + 9 = (1002 + 500) + 3
I2.4 If S is the sum of the last 3 digits (hundreds, tens, units) of the product of the positive roots of
2012 x log 2012 x = x R , find the value of S.
( )
log 2012 2012 x log 2012 x = log 2012 x 3
+ (log 2012 x ) = 3 log 2012 x

1 2
2
Let y = log2012 x, then 2y2 6y + 1 = 0
3 7
y = log2012 x =
2
3+ 7 3 7
x = 2012 2
or 2012 2
3+ 7 3 7
Product of positive roots = 2012 2012 2 2
= 20123
123 (mod 1000)
= 1728 (mod 1000)
S = sum of the last 3 digits = 7 + 2 + 8 = 17
Individual Event 3
I3.1 In Figure 1, a rectangle is sub-divided into 3
identical squares of side length 1.
If = ABD + ACD, find the value of .
Method 1 (compound angle)
1 1
tan ABD = , tan ACD =
3 2
0 < ABD, ACD < 45 Figure 1
0 < ABD + ACD < 90
tan ABD + tan ACD 1
+1
tan = = 3 1 21 = 1 > 0
1 tan ABD tan ACD 1 3 2
= 45
Method 2 (congruent triangles) L K J A
Draw 3 more identical squares BCFE, CIGH, IDHG
of length 1 as shown in the figure. ALBD, DBEH are
identical rectangles. Join BG, AG.
BE = GH = AD (sides of a square) B C I D
EG = HA = CD (sides of 2 squares)
BEG = 90 = GHA = ADC (angle of a square)
BEG GHA ADC (SAS) 1 1
Let BGE = = GAH (corr. s 's) H

E
AGH = 90 (s sum of ) F G 1
AGB = 180 AGH BGE (adj. s on st. line)

= 180 (90 ) = 90
BG = AG (corr. sides 's)
ABG = BAG (base s isos. )
180o 90o
= = 45 (s sum of )
2
= ABD + ACD
= ABD + GBI (corr. s, s)
= 45 = 45
Method 3 (similar triangles) L K J A
Join AI.
AI = 2 (Pythagoras theorem)
BI 2 AI 2
= = 2, = = 2
AI 2 CI 1 B C I D
AIB = CIA (common )
AIB ~ CIA (2 sides proportional, included )
ACD = BAI (corr. s, ~s)
= ABD + ACD = ABI + BAI
= AID (ext. of )
= 45 (diagonal of a square) = 45
Method 4 (vector dot product) L K J A
Define a rectangular system with BC = i, BL = j.
j
AB = 3i j, AC = 2i j, AI = i j.
AB AI = | AB || AI | cos BAI
cosBAI =
( 3)( 1) + ( 1)( 1) =
2 B i C I D
( 3)2 + ( 1)2 ( 1)2 + ( 1)2 5

2
cos ACD = BAI = ACD
5
= ABD + ACD = ABI + BAI = AID (ext. of ) = 45
Method 5 (complex number) L K J A
Define the Argand diagram with B as the origin, BD
as the real axis, BL as the imaginary axis. z1
Let the complex numbers represented by AB and AC z2
be z1 and z2 respectively.
z1 = 3 + i, z2 = 2 + i B C I D
z1z2 = (3 + i)(2 + i) = 6 1 + (2 + 3)i = 5 + 5i
Arg(z1z2) = Arg(z1) + Arg(z2)
5
= ABD + ACD = tan1 = 45
5
= 45
36 12
I3.2 Let ABC be a triangle. If sin A = , sin B = and sin C = , find the value of , where
13 y
and y are in the lowest terms.
2
36 4 4 3
sin A = = > 0 0 < A < 90 and cos A = 1 =
45 5 5 5
2
12 12 5
sin B = > 0 0 < B < 90 and cos B = 1 =
13 13 13
sin C = sin(180 (A + B)) = sin (A + B) = sin A cos B + cos A sin B
4 5 3 12 56
= + =
5 13 5 13 65
= 56
I3.3 In Figure 2, a circle at centre O has three points on its
circumference, A, B and C. There are line segments OA, OB, AC
and BC, where OA is parallel to BC. If D is the intersection of C
OB and AC with BDC = (2 1) and ACB = , find the
value of . O
AOB = 2 ( at centre twice at circumference)
OBC = 2 (alt. , OA // CB) D (2 - 1)
+ 2 + (2 1) = 180 (s sum of )
3 + 111 = 180
= 23 A B
Figure 2
2012
I3.4 In the expansion of (ax + b) , where a and b are relatively prime positive integers.
If the coefficients of x and x+1 are equal, find the value of = a + b.
Coefficient of x23 = C232012
a 23 b1989 ; coefficient of x24 = C242012 a 24 b1988
2012
C23 a 23 b1989 = C242012 a 24 b1988
C242012
b= a
C232012
2012 24 + 1
b= a
24
24b = 1989a
8b = 663a
Q a and b are relatively prime integers
a = 8, b = 663
= 8 + 663 = 671
Individual Event 4
1 1 1 12
I4.1 If A is a positive integer such that + +L+ = , find the value of A.
1 3 3 5 ( A + 1)( A + 3) 25
1 1 1 1
= for n 0
(n + 1)(n + 3) 2 n + 1 n + 3
1 1 1 1 1 1 12
1 + + L + =
2 3 3 5 A + 1 A + 3 25
1 24
1 =
A + 3 25
1 1
=
A + 3 25
A = 22
I4.2 If x and y be positive integers such that x > y > 1 and xy = x + y + A.
x
Let B = , find the value of B.
y
xy = x + y + 22
xy x y + 1 = 23
(x 1)(y 1) = 23
Q 23 is a prime number and x > y > 1
x 1 = 23, y 1 = 1
x = 24 and y = 2
24
B = = 12
2
I4.3 Let f be a function satisfying the following conditions:
(i) f (n) is an integer for every positive integer n
(ii) f (2) = 2;
(iii) f (mn) = f (m)f (n) for all positive integers m and n and
(iv) f (m) > f (n) if m > n.
If C = f (B), find the value of C.
Reference: 2003 HI1
2 = f (2) > f (1) > 0 f (1) = 1
f (4) = f (22) = f (2)f (2) = 4
4 = f (4) > f (3) > f (2) = 2
f (3) = 3
C = f (12) = f (43) = f (4)f (3) = 43 = 12
I4.4 Let D be the sum of the last three digits of 24017C (in the denary system).
Find the value of D.
24017C = 74712 = 716 = (72)8 = 498 = (50 1)8
= 508 8507 + 56503 + 28502 850 + 1
282500 400 + 1 (mod 1000)
399 601 (mod 1000)
D=6+0+1=7
Method 2 24017C = 74712 = 716
74 = 2401
78 = (2400 + 1)2 = 5760000 + 4800 + 1 4801 (mod 1000)
716 (4800 + 1)2 48210000 + 9600 + 1 9601 (mod 1000)
D=6+0+1=7
Individual Spare (2011 Final Group Spare Event)
the value of P.
(2, 2, 1), (2, 2, 3), (3, 3, 1), (3, 3, 2), (3, 3, 4), (3, 3, 5),
(4, 4, 1), (4, 4, 2), (4, 4, 3), (4, 4, 5), (4, 4, 6), (4, 4, 7),
(5, 5, 1), , (5, 5, 4), (5, 5, 6), (5, 5, 7), (5, 5, 8), (5, 5, 9),
(6, 6, 1), , (6, 6, 9) (except (6, 6, 6))
(7, 7, 1), , (7, 7, 9) (except (7, 7, 7))
(8, 8, 1), , (8, 8, 9) (except (8, 8, 8))
(9, 9, 1), , (9, 9, 8)
(2, 3, 4), (2, 4, 5), (2, 5, 6), (2, 6, 7), (2, 7, 8), (2, 8, 9),
(3, 4, 5), (3, 4, 6), (3, 5, 6), (3, 5, 7), (3, 6, 7), (3, 6, 8), (3, 7, 8), (3, 7, 9), (3, 8, 9),
(4, 5, 6), (4, 5, 7), (4, 5, 8), (4, 6, 7), (4, 6, 8), (4, 6, 9), (4, 7, 8), (4, 7, 9), (4, 8, 9),
(5, 6, 7), (5, 6, 8), (5, 6, 9), (5, 7, 8), (5, 7, 9), (5, 8, 9), (6, 7, 8), (6, 7, 9), (6, 8, 9), (7, 8, 9).
(1, 2, 3), , (1, 2, 9) (7 triples)
(1, 3, 4), , (1, 3, 9) (6 triples)
(1, 4, 5), , (1, 4, 9) (5 triples)
(1, 5, 6), , (1, 5, 9) (4 triples)
(1, 6, 7), (1, 6, 8), (1, 6, 9), (1, 7, 8), (1, 7, 9), (1, 8, 9),
(2, 2, 4), , (2, 2, 9) (6 triples)
(2, 3, 5), , (2, 3, 9) (5 triples)
(2, 4, 6), , (2, 4, 9) (4 triples)
(2, 5, 7), (2, 5, 8), (2, 5, 9), (2, 6, 8), (2, 6, 9), (2, 7, 9),
(3, 3, 6), , (3, 3, 9) (4 triples)
(3, 4, 7), (3, 4, 8), (3, 4, 9), (3, 5, 8), (3, 5, 9), (3, 6, 9), (4, 4, 8), (4, 4, 9), (4, 5, 9).
= (8 + 7 + + 1) + (6 + 5 + + 1) + (4 + 3 + 2 + 1) + (2 + 1) = 36 + 21 + 10 + 3 = 70
Q = 3 log128 2 + 5 log128 2 + 7 log128 2 + + 95 log128 2
3 + 95
= (3 + 5 + + 95) log128 2 = 47 log128 2 = log128 22303 = log128 (27)329 = 329
2
1
12x 4y + 24 = 0 Height = 6, base = 2; area R = 62 = 6
2
1 1
x x3
2
S = x + x 2 1 + 2 = R x + 3 = R3 3R = 216 3(6) = 198
1 1 1
x x x
q=3
4 3x
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4

x y 7
y x 12
x y 7
xy 12
144 144
x x
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
xy 12
Q x y = 7 and x + y = w
w+7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w+7 w7
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
SG.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x + y 2 1 = 0 . Let p = |x| + |y|, find the value
2
of p.
1
2
1 1 3
x= , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Calculate the tens digit of 20112011.
20112011 (10 + 1)2011 mod 10
102011 + + 201110 + 1 11 mod 10
The tens digit is 1.
G1.2 Let a1, a2, a3, be an arithmetic sequence with common difference 1 and
a1 + a2 + a3 + + a100 = 2012. If P = a2 + a4 + a6 + + a100, find the value of P.
100(2a + 99 )
Let a1 = a then = 2012
2
1006
2a + 99 =
25
1006 99 25 1469
2a = =
25 25
50(a + 1 + a + 99 ) 1469
P = a2 + a4 + a6 + + a100 = = 25(2a + 100) = 25 100
2 25
P = 2500 1469 = 1031
Method 2 P = a2 + a4 + a6 + + a100
Q = a1 + a3 + a3 + + a99
P Q = 1 + 1 + 1 + + 1 (50 terms) = 50
But since P + Q = a1 + a2 + a3 + + a100 = 2012
2012 + 50
P= = 1031
2
Remark: the original question , arithmetic progression
The phrases are changed to and arithmetic sequence according to the
mathematics syllabus since 1999.
G1.3 If 90! is divisible by 10k, where k is a positive integer, find the greatest possible value of k.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4
Method 1 Method 2
When each factor of 5 is multiplied by 2, a trailing zero We can find the total number of factors
will appear in n!. of 5 by division as follow:
The number of factors of 2 is clearly more than the number 5 9 0 No. of factors of 5 is 18+3
of factors of 5 in 280! 518 k = 21
It is sufficient to find the number of factors of 5. 33
5, 10, 15, , 90; altogether 18 numbers, each have at
least one factor of 5.
25, 50, 75, altogether 3 numbers, each have at least two
factors of 5.
k = 21
G1.4 In Figure 1, ABC is a right-angled triangle with AB BC. A
If AB = BC, D is a point such that AD BD with AD = 5 and
BD = 8, find the value of the area of BCD.
D
AB = BC = 5 2 + 8 2 = 89 (Pythagoras theorem)
8
Let ABD = , then cos =
89
8
CBD = 90 , sinCBD =
89
B C
1 1 8
SBCD = BDBC sinCBD = 8 89 = 32 Figure 1
2 2 89
Remark: the original question right-angle triangle
It should be changed to right-angled triangle. Furthermore, the
condition AD BD is not specified.
Group Event 2
G2.1 Find the value of 2tan 1tan 2 tan 3 tan 87 tan 88 tan 89.
tan tan(90 ) = 1 for = 1, 2, . 44 and tan 45 = 1
2tan 1tan 2 tan 3 tan 87 tan 88 tan 89 = 2
G2.2 If there are K integers that satisfy the equation (x2 3x + 2)2 3(x2 3x) 4 = 0, find the
value of K.
(x2 3x + 2)2 3(x2 3x) 4 = 0
(x2 3x)2 + 4(x2 3x) 3(x2 3x) = 0
(x2 3x)2 + (x2 3x) = 0
(x2 3x)(x2 3x + 1) = 0
3 5
x = 0, 3 or
2
K = number of integral roots = 2
G2.3 If l is the minimum value of |x 2| + |x 47|, find the value of l.
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2011 FGS.1
|x 2| + |x 47| = |x 2| + |47 x| |x 2 + 47 x| = 45 l = 45
G2.4 In Figure 1, P, B and C are points on a circle P
with centre O and diameter BC. If A, B, C,

D are collinear such that AB = BC = CD,

= APB and = CPD, find the value of A x B
O
x C x D
(tan )(tan ).
Let AB = x = BC = CD, CBP = .
BPC = 90 ( in semi circle), BCP = 90 (s sum of )
BP = x cos , CP = x sin
BAP = , CDP = 90 (ext. of )
x BP x CP
= (sine rule on ABP); = (sine rule on CDP)
sin sin BAP sin sin CDP
x x cos x x sin
= ; =
sin sin ( ) sin cos( + )
sin cos cos sin = cos sin ; cos cos sin sin = sin sin
sin cos = 2 cos sin ; cos cos = 2 sin sin
tan 1
tan = ; tan =
2 2 tan
tan 1 1
(tan )(tan ) = =
2 2 tan 4
Method 2 BPC = 90 ( in semi circle), P
Produce PB to E so that PB = BE.

Produce PC to F so that PC = CF.

A D
Q AB = BC = CD (given) B O C
APCE, BPDF are //-grams (diagonals
bisect each other)
PEC = (alt. s, AP//EC) E F
PFB = (alt. s, PD//BF)

PC PC
In EPC, tan = =
PE 2 PB
PB PB
In BPF, tan = =
PF 2 PC
PC PB 1
(tan )(tan ) = =
2 PB 2 PC 4
Method 3 Lemma A Given a triangle ABC. D is a point A
on BC such that BD : DC = m : n, AD = t.
ABD = , ADC = < 90, ACD = .
Then n cot m cot = (m + n) cot
Proof: Let H be the projection of A on BC. t
h
AH = h, DH = h cot .

BH = cot , CH = h cot
m BD BH DH h cot h cot B m D H n C
= = =
n DC CH + HD h cot + h cot
m(cot + cot ) = n(cot cot )
n cot m cot = (m + n) cot
Lemma B Given a triangle ABC. D is a point on BC such that A
BD : DC = m : n, AD = t.

BAD = , ADC = < 90, CAD = .
Then m cot n cot = (m + n) cot h
Proof: Draw the circumscribed circle ABC.

Produce AD to cut the circle again at E. B m n C
D
BCE = , CBE = (s in the same seg.)
BDE = < 90 (vert. opp. s)
Apply Lemma A on BEC.
m cot n cot = (m + n) cot E
Now return to our original problem P
BPC = 90 ( in semi circle)

Apply Lemma B to APC:

O
x cot x cot 90 = (x + x) cot A x B x C x D
cot = 2 cot (1)
Apply Lemma B to BPC, BPC = 90
x cot x cot 90 = (x + x) cot(90 )
cot = 2 tan (2)
(1)(2): cot cot = 2 cot 2 tan = 4
1
(tan )(tan ) =
4
Remark: the original question BC OPB C
AB = BC = CD AD AB = BC = CD and AD is a line segment
Both versions are not smooth and clear. The new version is as follow:
BC OPB C ABC D AB =
BC = CD If A, B, C, D are collinear such that AB = BC = CD
Group Event 3
7+ 3 7 3
G3.1 Let x = ,y= and 192z = x4 + y4 + (x + y)4, find the value of z.
7 3 7+ 3
x+y=
( ) (
2
7+ 3 + 7 3
=
)
2
2(7 + 3)
= 5; xy = 1
7 3 4
x2 + y2 = (x + y)2 2xy = 52 2 = 23
x4 + y4 = (x2 + y2)2 2(xy)2 = 232 2 = 527
192z = 527 + 54 = 527 + 625 = 1152
z=6
G3.2 In Figure 1, AD, DG, GB, BC, CE, EF and FA are line segments. A
B
If FAD + GBC + BCE + ADG + CEF + AFE +
P
DGB = r, find the value of r. T
Reference: 1992 HI13, 2000 HI5 G
In the figure, let P, Q, R, S, T be as shown. C
S
ATP + BPQ + DQR + ERS + GST =360 (1)
APT + CQP + DRQ + FSR + GTS =360 (2) Q
(sum of ext. of polygon) R F
D
FAD = 180 (ATP + APT) (s sum of )
GBC + BCE = 360 (BPQ + CQP) (s sum of polygon) E
ADG = 180 (DQR + DRQ) (s sum of )

CEF + AFE = 360 (ERS + FSR) (s sum of polygon)
DGB = 180 (GST + GST) (s sum of )
Add these 5 equations up and make use of equations (1) and (2):
r = 1807 2360 r = 540
Remark: The original question FAD + GBC + BCE + ADG + CEF + DGB = r
AFE is missing, the original question is wrong.
k 1
G3.3 Let k be positive integer and f (k) a function that if = 0.k1k2k3, then f (k) = k1k 2 k 3 ,
k
3 1
for example, f (3) = 666 because = 0.666, find the value of D = f (f (f (f (f (112))))).
3
1 112 1 1
0.99 = 1 < =1 < 1 f (112) = 99k 3
100 112 112
1 99k 3 1 1 1
0.998 = 1 < =1 <1 = 0.999 f (f (112)) = 998
500 99k 3 99k 3 1000
f (f (f (112))) = 998 D = f (f (f (f (f (112))))) = 998
G3.4 If Fn is an integral valued function defined recursively by Fn(k) = F1(Fn1(k)) for n 2 where
F1(k) is the sum of squares of the digits of k, find the value of F2012(7).
F1(7) = 72 = 49
F2(7) = F1(F1(7)) = F1(49) = 42 + 92 = 97
F3(7) = 92 + 72 = 130
F4(7) = 12 + 32 + 02 = 10
F5(7) = 1
F2012(7) = 1
Remark: the original question If f is an integer valued function
The recursive function is defined for Fn, not f.
Group Event 4
G4.1 In figure 1, ABC and EBC are two right-angled triangles,
BAC = BEC = 90AB = AC and EDB is the angle bisector
BD
of ABC. Find the value of .
CE
ABC is a right-angled isosceles triangle.
ABC = ACB = 45 (s sum of isos. )
ABD = CBD = 22.5 ( bisector)
Let BC = x
2x
AB = x cos 45 = ; CE = x sin 22.5
2
2x
BD = AB cos 22.5 =
2 cos 22.5o
BD 2x 2
= = =2
CE 2 cos 22.5 x sin 22.5 cos 45o
o o
Method 2 Produce CE and BA to meet at F.

F
AB = AC ABC = ACB = 45
BAC = BEC = 90 (given) A
ABCE is a cyclic quad. (converse, s in the same seg.)
ABD = CBD = 22.5 ( bisector) E
ACF = 22.5 (s in the same seg.) D
CAE = CBE = 22.5 (s in the same seg.)
CE = AE (1) (sides, opp. eq. s)
EAF = 180 90 22.5 = 67.5 (adj. s on st. line) B C
AFE = 180 90 22.5 = 67.5 (s of ACF)
AE = EF (2) (sides, opp. eq. s)
By (1) and (2), CF = 2CE (3)
ACF ABD (A.S.A.)
BD = CF (corr. sides, s)
BD CF 2CE
= = = 2 by (3)
CE CE CE
G4.2 If Q > 0 and satisfies 3Q 1 2Q = 2 , find the value of Q.
Reference: 2002 FG4.3, 2005 FG4.2, 2009 HG9
3Q 1 2Q = 2
3Q |1 2Q| = 2 or 3Q |1 2Q| = 2
3Q 2 = |1 2Q| or 3Q + 2 = |1 2Q|
3Q 2 = 1 2Q or 3Q 2 = 2Q 1 or 3Q + 2 = 1 2Q or 3Q + 2 = 2Q 1
3 1
Q = or 1 or (rejected) or 3 (rejected)
5 5
3 9 6 8
Check: when Q = , LHS = 1 = 2, rejected
5 5 5 5
When Q = 1, LHS = |3 |1 2|| = 2 = RHS accepted
Q=1
1 1 1 1
G4.3 Let xyzt = 1. If R = + + + ,
1 + x + xy + xyz 1 + y + yz + yzt 1 + z + zt + ztx 1 + t + tx + txy
1 1 t
= =
1 + x + xy + xyz 1 + x + xy + t 1 + t + tx + txy
1
1 1 tx
= =
1 + y + yz + yzt 1 + y + tx + tx 1 + t + tx + txy
1 t
1 1 txy
= =
1 + z + zt + ztx 1 + txy + txy + txy 1 + t + tx + txy
1 t tx
t tx txy 1
R= + + + =1
1 + t + tx + txy 1 + t + tx + txy 1 + t + tx + txy 1 + t + tx + txy
G4.4 If x1, x2, x3, x4 and x5 are positive integers that satisfy x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 + x5 = x1x2x3x4x5, that is
the sum is the product, find the maximum value of x5.
The expression is symmetric. We may assume that 1 x1 x2 x3 x4 x5.
If x1 = x2 = x3 = x4 = 1, then 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + x5 = 1111x5 no solution
x1x2x3x4 1 0
x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 = (x1x2x3x4 1)x5
x + x + x3 + x 4
x5 = 1 2
x1 x2 x3 x4 1
When x5 attains the maximum value, the denominator must be 1, i.e. x1x2x3x4 = 2
1+1+1+ 2
Q 1 x1 x2 x3 x4 x1 = 1, x2 = 1, x3 = 1, x4 = 2, max. x5 = =5
2 1
Method 2 We begin from the lowest integer.
Case 1 Let x1 = x2 = x3 = x4 = 1, then 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + x5 = 1111x5 no solution
x +3
Case 2 Let x1 = x2 = x3 = 1 and x4 > 1, then 3 + x4 + x5 = x4x5 x5 = 4
x4 1
When x4 = 2, x5 = 5; when x4 = 3, x5 = 3
When x4 = 4, no integral solution for x5
When x4 = 5, x5 = 2, contradicting that 1 x1 x2 x3 x4 x5.
When x4 > 5, then x5 < x4, which is a contradiction
Case 3 Let x1 = x2 = 1 and x3 > 1, then 2 + x3 + x4 + x5 = x3x4x5
x +4
When x3 = 2, 4 + x4 + x5 = 2x4x5 x5 = 4 > 1 x4 + 4 > 2x4 1 x4 < 5
2 x4 1
When x4 = 2, x5 = 2
When x4 = 3, 4, no integral solution for x5
1 + x 2 + x3 + x 4 1 + 3 x 4
Case 4 1 = x1 < x2 x3 x4 x5, then x5 = <
x 2 x3 x 4 1 4 x4 1
When x2 = x3 = x4 = 2, x5 = 1 < x4, contradiction
When 2 x2 = x3 < x4
1 + 3x4 < 4x4 1
1 + 3 x4
4 x4 1
x + x + x3 + x 4 4 x4
Case 5 2 x1 x2 x3 x4 x5, then x5 = 1 2 <
x1 x2 x3 x4 1 8 x4 1
1 < 4x4
4x4 < 8x4 1
4 x4
8 x4 1
Conclusion: The solution set for (x1, x2, x3, x4, x5) is {(1, 1, 1, 2, 5), (1, 1, 1, 3, 3), (1,1,2,2,2)}.
Maximum for x5 = 5
Group Spare (2011 Final Group Spare Event)
= 1, = 5
If x < 1, |x | + |x | = 1 x + 5 x = 6 2x > 4
If 1 x 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + 5 x = 4
If x > 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + x 5 = 2x 6 > 4
m = min. of |x | + |x | = 4
|x | + |x | |x 1 + 5 x| = 4 m = 4
If , , > 0, then
++ 3
(A.M. G.M.)
3
2 3
4
3
=2>2
4 = (2 2)2
3 2 + 2 = 0
( + 1)(2 2 + 2) = 0
= 1, = 4
|| + || + || = 1 + 1 + 4 = 6
v = min. of || + || + || = 6
of .
y = x + 1 2|x| + 2 x = 3 2|x|
0 |x| 2 3 3 2|x| 1
=3
2 2 2 2
x2 + y2 + z2 + w2 3(x + y + z + w) = 0
2 9 2 9 2 9 2 9
x 3 x + + y 3 y + + z 3 z + + w 3w + = 9
4 4 4 4
2 2 2 2
3 3 3 3
x + y +z +w = 9
2 2 2 2
(2x 3) + (2y 3) + (2z 3) + (2w 3)2 = 36
2 2 2

a , b, c, d = 1, 3, 5
(3, 3, 3, 3) (2) 1
F = (12 + 1)16
= 208
26 1
10-11 1 11 2 (= 5.2) 3 2010 4 20 5 237
5 2
Individual
6 10 7 6 2 8 7 9 36 10 24 3
a = 1006, b = 1002,
10-11 1 2 15 3 5026 4 4 5 1005
c = 998, d = 996, e = 994
Group
6 6 2 7 125751 8 2012 9 99 10 2 3
Individual Events
Reference: 1972 American High School Mathematics Examination Q31, 2015 FI4.1
26 = 64 = 135 1 1 mod 13; 212 1 mod 13
2011 = 12167 + 7
22011 = 212167 + 7 = (212)16727 27 262 12 2 11 mod 13
I2 Given that x2 + y2 = 1, find the maximum value of 2x + 5y2.
2x + 5y2 = 2x + 5(1 x2) = 5x2 + 2x + 5
4ac b 2 4 5 5 2 2 26
The maximum value = = = (= 5.2)
4a 4 5 5
I3 Given that a + b = 2011 2010 and a b = 2011 2010 , find the value of ab.
(Give your answer in surd form)
(a + b)2 (a b)2 = 2011 2010 2011 2010
4ab = 2 2010
1
ab = 2010
2
I4 In ABC, the ratio of the altitudes perpendicular to the three sides AB, BC and CA is 3 : 4 : 5.
If the lengths of the three sides are integers, find the minimum value of AB.
Let AB = c, BC = a, CA = b. By calculating the areas in 3 different ways:
3a = 4b = 5c
a : b : c = 20 : 15 : 12
The minimum value of AB = 20
(2) (1): (m + n)(m n) = 31
m + n = 31 and m n = 1
m = 16, n = 15
x = 152 + 12 = 237
A 0 1+1=2 1+1=2 3+3=6 5+5=10
B 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
C 1 0+1=1 1+2=3 3+2=5 5+6=11
I7 Find the value of 7 12 13 2 12 .

Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
13 2 12 = 12 2 1 12 1 = 12 1 =
2
12 1
7 12 13 2 12 = 7 12 12 1 = 8 2 12
= 6 2 26 2 = 6 2
2
= 6 2
10(10) + 15(5) + 25(5) + 40(10) = 700
Class A uses 7 $100 notes.
I9 The length and the width of a rectangle are integers. If its area is larger than its perimeter by 9,
find the perimeter.
Let the width be x and the length be y.
xy 2(x + y) = 9
x(y 2) 2y + 4 = 13
(x 2)(y 2) = 13
x 2 = 1, y 2 = 13
x = 3, y = 15
The perimeter = 2(3 + 15) = 36
I10 In the figure, ABCD is a trapezium with C = 90. If the area of
the equilateral triangle ABD is 16 3 , find the area of trapezium
ABCD.
1
Area of BCD = area of ABD
2
Area of trapezium = 16 3 + 8 3 = 24 3
Group Events
G1 If (1000 a)(1000 b)(1000 c)(1000 d)(1000 e) = 242, where a, b, c, d and e are even
numbers and a > b > c > d > e, find the values of a, b, c, d and e.
242 = 2632 = 6(2)246
= (1000 1006)(1000 1002)(1000 998)(1000 996)(1000 994)
a = 1006, b = 1002, c = 998, d = 996, e = 994
G2 ab denotes a two digit number with a as tens digit and b as the unit digit. Rab is the
remainder when ab is divided by a + b. Find the maximum value of Rab .
ab = 10a + b = 9a + (a + b)
9a = (a + b)m + Rab , where 0 Rab < a + b
a = 1, ab = 19, maximum possible Rab = 9
The maximum value of Rab is 15.
G3 Given that a, b and c are integers, and a + b = 2011, c a = 2010, a < b. Find the greatest
possible value of a + b + c.
a + b + c = 2011 + c
c = a + 2010
Maximum a = 1005, b = 1006, c = 1005 + 2010 = 3015
Maximum a + b + c = 2011 + 3015 = 5026
G4 Given that n is a positive integer and n4 18n2 + 49 is a prime number, find the value of n.
n4 18n2 + 49 = (n2 7)2 4n2 = (n2 + 2n 7)(n2 2n 7)
n2 + 2n 7 > n2 2n 7
n2 2n 7 = 1 and n2 + 2n 7 is a prime
n2 2n 8 = 0
(n 4)(n + 2) = 0
n = 4 only (verification: n2 + 2n 7 = 17 which is a prime)
4x
G5 Given that f x x , where x is a real number, find the value of
4 2
1 2 3 2009 2010
f f f f f .
2011 2011 2011 2011 2011
Reference: 2004 FG4.1, 2012 FI2.2
4x 41 x 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
f x f 1 x 1
4 x 2 41 x 2 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
1 2 3 2009 2010
f f f f f
2011 2011 2011 2011 2011
1 2010 2 2009 1005 1006
= f f f f f f = 1005
2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011
G6 In the figure below, M is a point on AC, AM = MC = BM = 3. Find the

maximum value of AB + BC. Reference: 2007 HG8
M is the centre of the circle ABC with AC as diameter.
ABC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
Let ACB = x, AB = 6 sin , BC = 6 cos
AB + BC = 6 sin + 6 cos
= 6 2 sin( 45 ) 6 2
The maximum value is 6 2 .
2011!
G7 Given that n! = n(n 1)(n 2) 321 and is an integer, where k is a positive
10k
integer. If S is the sum of all possible values of k, find the value of S.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
When each factor of 5 is multiplied by 2, a trailing zero will appear in n!.
5, 10, 15, , 2010; altogether 402 numbers, each have at least one factor of 5.
25, 50, 75, , 2000; altogether 80 numbers, each have at least two factors of 5.
125, 250, 375, , 2000; altogether 16 numbers, each have at least three factors of 5.
625, 1250, 1875; altogether 3 numbers, each have at least four factors of 5.
Total number of factors of 5 is 402 + 80 + 16 + 3 = 501
2011!
There are 501 trailing zeros of 2011! If is an integer, then k = 1, 2, , 501.
10k
1 501
S = 1 + 2 + + 501 = 501 = 125751
2
G8 Given that a, b, c and d are non-negative integers and
ac + bd + ad + bc = 2011. Find the value of a + b + c + d.
(a + b)(c + d) = 2011, which is a prime number
a + b = 2011 and c + d = 1 or vice versa.
a + b + c + d = 2012
G9 As shown in the figure, ABCD is a convex quadrilateral,
BAC = 27, BCA = 18, BDC = 54, BDA = 36.
The diagonals AC and BD intersect at P. Find CPB.
Reference: 2003 HG8, 2014 FG2.4
Draw a circumscribed circle ABC. B
Produce BD to cut the circle at E. 27 18
A C
BEA = 18 = BCA (s in the same segment) P
BEC = 27 = BAC (s in the same segment)
DAE = 36 18 = 18 (ext. of ADE) 36 54
DCE = 54 27 = 27 (ext. of ADE) D

DA = DE and DC = DE (sides opp. eq. s)
D is the centre of the circle
DA = DB = DC (radii)
DCB = DBC = (180 54) 2 = 63
(s sum of isos. BCD) E
DCP = 63 18 = 45
CPB = 45 + 54 = 99 (ext. of CDP)
G10 As shown in the figure, AC = 3, BC = 4 and

A
C = 90. M is a point on BC such that the
incircles in ABM and ACM are equal. Find the
length of AM.
Let D, F be the centres of the circles, with radii
r, the points of contact be E, G, H, I, J, K as 3-r 3-r
shown. Let AM = x, AB = 5, CH = CE = r.
K
AE = 3 r = AG (tangent from ext. point) G
SABF+SAMF+SBMF+SAMD+SACD+SCMD=SABC F
3 45 2x r 3 4 D E
r J r
2 2 2
r
r(6 + x) = 6 B I
M H
C
6
r= (1)
6 x
In ACM, MG = x + r 3 = MH (tangent from ext. point)
6
MC = x + 2r 3 = x 2 3 by (1)
6 x
=
x 36 x 12 = x 2 3x 6
6 x 6 x
2 2 2
AM AC = MC (Pythagoras Theorem)
2
x 2 3x 6
x 9
2

6 x
(x2 9)(x + 6)2 = (x2 + 3x 6)2
(x2 9)(x2 + 12x +36) = x4 + 6x3 3x2 36x + 36
6x3 + 30x2 72x 360 = 0
x3 + 5x2 12x 60 = 0
x(x2 12) + 5(x2 12) = 0
(x + 5)(x2 12) = 0
AM = x = 2 3
Method 2 Lemma In the figure, given a triangle ABC. A
ADBC, AD = h, O is the centre of the inscribed circle with
1
radius r. s = (a + b + c)
2 R
Area of ABC ah c r h
b
Then r = = Q
s abc O
r
Proof: Area OBC + area OCA + area OAB = Area of ABC
1 1 1 1 r
ar br cr ah
2 2 2 2 B a P D C
Area of ABC ah
r= =
s abc
Let CM = t, then BM = 4 t. Now apply the above lemma to ACM and ABM respectively.
3t
r= (1)
t 3 9t2
34 t
r= (2)
4 t 5 9 t2
3t 34 t
(1) = (2) =
t 3 9t2 9t 9t2
t t 3 9t2

4t 9 t 9t2
2t 4 2t 6 A C A B C D
( )
4 12 2 9 t 2 B D A B C D
t 2 t 3

2 6 9t2
t 26 9 t 2 2t 6
6t 12 t 2 9 t 2 2t 6
t 2 9 t 2 6 4t
(t2 4t + 4)(9 + t2) = 36 48t + 16t2
t4 4t3 + 4t2 + 9t2 36t + 36 = 36 48t + 16t2
t4 4t3 3t2 + 12t = 0
t[t2(t 4) 3(t 4)] = 0
t(t 4)(t2 3) = 0
t = 0 (rejected), 4 (rejected because CM < BC = 4) or 3.
2
AM = AC 2 CM 2 = 32 3 = 2 3
1. Given a straight line L, and two points P and Q lying on the same side of L. Mark a point T on
L so that the sum of the lengths of PT and QT is minimal. (Hint: Consider the reflection image
of P about the line L.)
Reference: 2008 Heat Sample construction Q2
P
Q
P
Q 1 3 1
L
A S B T
4
L 2
2 P1
Figure 1
Figure 2
APB AP1B (S.S.S.)
PBS P1BS (S.A.S.)
PST P1ST (S.A.S.)
PT + QT = P1T + QT
2. The figure shows a line segment AB. D is a fixed point such that A, B, D are not collinear.
Construct a triangle ABC so that C, B and D are collinear and AC BC = BD.
ABD ABD
ABC CB D
AC BC = BD
Remark: The wording in both versions are ambiguous,
so I have changed it.
The original question is:
Figure 2 shows a line segment AB which is a ABC and D is any point not lying on AB. If the
difference between the other two sides of ABC (i.e. AC BC) is equal to BD and C, B and D
are collinear, construct ABC.
2 ABC AB D AB ABC
( AC BC) BD CB D ABC
(1) Join DB and produce it further. C
(2) Join AD. 4
(3) Construct the perpendicular bisector of AD, cutting DB 4
produced at C. Let M be the mid-point of AD.

(4) Join AC, BC.
ABC is the required triangle. B
A
Proof: ACM DCM (S.A.S.) 2
AC = DC (corr. sides, ) M 1
BC = DC BD = AC BD 3
BD = AC BC. D
Discussion: There are some positions on the plane for which ABC is not constructible.
Use B as centre BA as radius to draw a circle.

Let AE be the diameter of this circle. AB = BE.
Draw 2 circles with AB, BE as diameters.
Let the region (including the boundary) bounded
by the circles with AB, BE as diameters be and
respectively.
Let the region inside the great circle with AE as
B
diameter but not in and be . A E
Let the region on or outside the great circle be .
When D lies on , then BD AB
So AC BC AB
AC AB + BC
This inequality violates the triangle law:
The sum of 2 sides of a triangle is larger than the
third side.
i.e. AC AB + BC > AC, which is false.
When D lies on or outside the circle, ABC is not constructible.
When D lies on ,

AC1M DC1M (S.A.S.) C1
C1AM = C1DM (corr. s, )
ADC1 = BAD + ABD (ext. of ABD)
> ABD
D
C1AM = ADC1 > ABD
C1AB > ABD M B
AC1 < BC1 (greater sides opp. greater s) A E
The contradicts to the fact that BD = AC1 BC1
because AC1 = BD + BC1 > BC1
In this case the steps are as follows:
(1) Join DB and produce it further.
(2) Use B as centre, BD as radius to draw a
circle, cutting DB produced at F.
(3) Join AF.
(4) Construct the perpendicular bisector of
AF, cutting DB at C2. Let M2 be the
mid-point of AF.
(5) Join AC2, BC2.
2
ABC2 is the required triangle.
ABC2 = BAF + AFB (ext. of ABF) D
C2
> AFB 5 5
B
= FAC2 (corr. s, ) A 4 E
1
> BAC2 3
M2
AC2 > BC2 (greater sides opp. greater s) F
The triangle ABC is constructible.
When D lies on , relabel D as F and F as D,
the construction steps are shown above.
There is only one possible triangle.
When D lies on the boundary of ,
ADB = 90 ( in semi-circle)
The perpendicular bisector of AD is parallel to
DB. It will not intersect DB produced. D
Suppose DB produced intersects the boundary 4 C3
of at F3. Then the perpendicular bisector of M3 3
AF3 intersects DB at C3. B
ABC3 is the required triangle. A E
Proof: omitted. 2
1
M1
F3

When D lies on , C4
Use B as centre, BD as radius to draw a circle,
cutting DB produced at E on . E
The perpendicular bisector of AD cuts DB
produced at C4. The perpendicular bisector of N
AE cut BD at C5.
We can construct 2 possible triangles B
A
ABC4 and ABC5 satisfying the given E
conditions.
M
C5
D

3. Figure 3 shows a circle of centre C and a line segment MN. P is a point lies inside the circle.
Construct a chord QR with points Q and R on the circumference of the circle so that it passes
through P and its length is equal to that of MN.
(1) Join CP and produce it to 2 ends A, B of the diameter of the
circle as shown. R
6
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of CP, O is the mid-point 4
of CP. A F E 5
D
7
(3) Use O as centre, OC as radius to draw a circle. P
(4) Use A as centre, MN as radius to draw an arc, cutting the Q 8 3 2
given circle at D. O
(5) Join AD. C 1
(6) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AD, E is the mid-point
of AD. AD = MN, CE = CF
(7) Use C as centre, CE as radius to draw an arc, cutting the B
circle in step (3) at F.
(8) Join PF and produce it to cut the circle at Q and R. Then M N
QR is the required chord.
Proof: PFC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
CE = CF (by construction)
QR = AD =MN (chords eq. distance from centre are equal)
Method 2: (Provided by Tsuen Wan Government Secondary School Tam Lok Him)
Let the radius of the given circle be R, the distance between CP be r.
(1) Use M as centre and R as radius to draw an arc, use N as R
centre and R as radius to draw an arc. The two arcs 5
intersect at A.
P
(2) Use A as centre, R as radius to draw a circle C1. The circle 4
C1 must pass through M, N. Q radius = MP
1
(3) Use A as centre, r as radius to draw a circle C2, which cuts

MN at P1. C
(4) On the given circle, use P as centre, MP1 as radius to draw
a circle, which cuts the given circle at Q.
B
(5) Join QP and produce it to cut the given circle at R.
Then QPR is the required chord.
Proof: QP = MP1 (by construction)
CP = AP1 (by construction) P1
M N
CQ = AM (by construction)
CPQ BP1M (S.S.S.) 3 2
height of CPQ = height of BP1M

1
A
QR = MN (chords eq. distance from centre are equal) C1
C2
radius = CP
radius = CR
Remark There are some positions of P inside the circle for which the chord is not constructible.
The circle in step 7 may not cut the circle in step 3. At the limiting position, CQ2 = PQ2 + CP2
4r2 = QR2 + 4CP2 QR = 2 r 2 CP 2
6
4 R
A E 5
D
6
4
7 A E 5
D
P 7
3 P= F
O
2 C
1 C 1
Q
B AD = MN, CE = CF B
M N
For fixed position P, the length of chord must satisfy 2 r 2 CP 2 MN 2r.

1 23.55% 2 26.6% 3 52.16% 4 25.87% 5 60.04%
6 31.34% 7 10.83% 8 70.35% 9 41.22% 10 62.88%
1 22.18% 2 24.69% 3 40.17% 4 43.1% 5 17.57%
6 37.66% 7 11.30% 8 58.16% 9 21.76% 10 3.77%
Individual Events
SI R 30 I1 P 20 I2 P 3 I3 P 7 I4 a 2 IS P 95
S 120 Q 36 Q 5 Q 13 b 1 Q 329
T 11 R 8 R 6 R 5 c 2 *R 6
see the remark
*S 5040 95 + 3 1505 *d
U 72 see the remark
S S 5 see the remark
2 S 198
10
Group Events
SG q 3 G1 a 2 G2 area 40 G3 a 1 G4 P 20 GS see *m
the remark
4
*pairs n 2
k 1 b 3 2550 a+b+c 1 v 6
see the remark
m 3
1
w 25 c 2 x 60 yx r 3 3
2
3 P1
p x 3 P 1 7 *BGHI 6 F 208
2 P2 see the remark
S1.1 Let a, b, c and d be the distinct roots of the equation x4 15x2 + 56 = 0.

x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
R = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30
S1.2 In Figure 1, AD and BE are straight lines with AB = AC and

AB // ED.
If ABC = R and ADE = S, find the value of S.
S = 120
log(1 + F )
S1.3 Let F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2S and T = , find the value of T.
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log(1 + F ) log 2121
T= = = 11
log 2 log 2
S1.4 Let f (x) be a function such that f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) and f (n) 0 hold for all integers n 6.
f (T )
(T 1) f (T 3)
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f (11) 10 9 8 f (8)
U= = = 89 = 72
(11 1) f (11 3) 10 f (8)
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If the average of a, b and c is 12, and the average of 2a + 1, 2b + 2, 2c + 3 and 2 is P, find the
value of P.
a + b + c = 36 (1)
2a + 1 + 2b + 2 + 2c + 3 + 2 2(a + b + c ) + 8 2 36 + 8
P= = = = 20
4 4 4
I1.2 Let 20112011 = aP5 + bP4 + cP3 + dP2 + eP + f, where a, b, c, d, e and f are integers and 0 a,
b, c, d, e, f < P. If Q = a + b + c + d + e + f, find the value of Q.
20 2 0 1 1 2 0 1 1
20 1 0 0 5 6 0 0 LL 11
20 5 0 2 8 0 LL 0
20 2 5 1 4 LL 0
20 1 2 5 LL 14
6 LL 5
a = 6, b = 5, c = 14, d = 0, e = 0, f = 11; Q = 6 + 5 + 14 + 0 + 0 + 11 = 36
I1.3 If R is the unit digit of the value of 8Q + 710Q + 6100Q + 51000Q, find the value of R.
836 6 (mod 10), 7360 1 (mod 10), 6360 6 (mod 10), 536000 5 (mod 10)
836 + 7360 + 63600 + 536000 6 + 1 + 6 + 5 8 (mod 10)
R=8
I1.4 If S is the number of ways to arrange R persons in a circle, find the value of S.
Reference: 1998 FI5.3, 2000 FG4.4
First arrange the 8 persons in a row. Number of permutations = P88 = 8!
Suppose the first and the last in the row are A and H respectively.
Now join the first and the last persons to form a ring.
A can be in any position of the ring. Each pattern is repeated 8 times.
8!
Number of permutations = = 5040
8
Remark: the original version was "arrange R people"
Note that the word "people" is an uncountable noun, whereas the word "persons" is a
countable noun.
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If the solution of the system of equations x + y = P are positive integers,
3 x + 5 y = 13
5 P 13
5(1) (2): 2x = 5P 13 x =
2
13 3P
(2) 3(1): 2y = 13 3P y =
2
5 P 13 13 3P
Q x and y are positive integers > 0 and > 0 and P is odd
2 2
13 13
<P< and P is odd P = 3
5 3
I2.2 If x + y = P, x2 + y2 = Q and x3 + y3 = P2, find the value of Q.

x + y = 3, x2 + y2 = Q and x3 + y3 = 9
(x + y)2 = 32 x2 + y2 + 2xy = 9 Q + 2xy = 9 (1)
(x + y)(x2 + y2 xy) = 9 3(Q xy) = 9 Q xy = 3 (2)
(1) + 2(2): 3Q = 15 Q = 5
I2.3 If a and b are distinct prime numbers and a2 aQ + R = 0 and b2 bQ + R = 0, find the value
of R.
a2 5a + R = 0 and b2 5b + R = 0
a, b are the (prime numbers) roots of x2 5x + R = 0
a + b = 5 (1), ab = R (2)
a = 2, b = 3 R = 6
1 1 1 1
I2.4 If S > 0 and + +L+ = 1 , find the value of S.
S (S 1) (S + 1)S (S + 20)(S + 19 ) R
1 1 1 1 1 1 5
+ +L+ =
S 1 S S S +1 S + 19 S + 20 6
1 1 5
=
S 1 S + 20 6
21 5
=
(S 1)(S + 20) 6
5(S2 + 19S 20) = 126
5S2 + 95S 226 = 0
95 + 13545
S=
10
95 + 3 1505
=
10
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If P is a prime number and the roots of the equation x2 + 2(P+1)x + P2 P 14 = 0 are integers,
find the least value of P.
= 4(P + 1)2 4(P2 P 14) = m2
2
m 2 2
= P + 2P + 1 P + P + 14 = 3P + 15
2
The possible square numbers are 16, 25, 36,
3P + 15 = 16 (no solution); 3P + 15 = 25 (not an integer); 3P + 15 = 36 P = 7
The least possible P = 7
I3.2 Given that x2 + ax + b is a common factor of 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11 and x3 + Px 22.
If Q = a + b, find the value of Q.
Let f (x) = 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11; g(x) = x3 + 7x 22
g(2) = 8 + 14 22 = 0 x 2 is a factor
By division g(x) = (x 2)(x2 + 2x + 11); f (x) = (2x + 1)(x2 + 2x + 11)
a = 2, b = 11; Q = a + b = 13
Method 2
Let f (x) = 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11 = (x2 + ax + b)(cx + d)
g(x) = x3 + 7x 22 = (x2 + ax + b)(px + q)
f (x) 2g(x) = 2x3 + 5x2 + 24x + 11 2(x3 + 7x 22) (x2 + ax + b)[(c 2d)x + d 2q]
5x2 + 10x + 55 (x2 + ax + b)[(c 2d)x + d 2q]
By comparing coefficients of x3 and x2 on both sides:
c = 2d and d 2q = 5
5x2 + 10x + 55 5(x2 + ax + b)
a = 2, b = 11
Q = a + b = 13
I3.3 If R is a positive integer and R3 + 4R2 + (Q 93)R + 14Q + 10 is a prime number, find the
value of R. (Reference: 2004 FI4.2)
Let f (R) = R3 + 4R2 80R + 192
f (4) = 64 + 64 320 + 192 = 0 x 4 is a factor
By division, f (R) = (R 4)(R2 + 8R 48) = (R 4)2(R + 12)
Q f (R) is a prime number
R 4 = 1 R = 5 and R + 12 = 17, which is a prime.
I3.4 In Figure 1, AP, AB, PB, PD, AC and BC are line segments
and D is a point on AB. If the length of AB is R times that of
PB
AD, ADP = ACB and S = , find the value of S.
PD
Consider ADP and ABP.
ADP = ACB = APB (given, s in the same segment AB)
DAP = PAB (Common)
APD = ABP (s sum of )
ADP ~ APB (equiangular)
Let AD = k, AB = 5k, AP = y
PB AB AP
= = (Ratio of sides, ~'s)
PD AP AD
PB 5k y
= =
PD y k
2
y y
=5 = 5
k k
PB
= 5
PD
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Consider the function y = sin x + 3 cos x. Let a be the maximum value of y. Find the value of a
( ) ( )
y = sin x + 3 cos x = 2 sin x 12 + cos x 23 = 2 sin x cos 60o + cos x sin 60o = 2 sin(x + 60)
a = maximum value of y = 2
I4.2 Find the value of b if b and y satisfy |b y| = b + y a and |b + y| = b + a.
From the first equation:
(b y = b + y 2 or y b = b + y 2) and b + y 2 0
(y = 1 or b = 1) and b + y 2 0
When y = 1 b 1 LL (3)
When b = 1 y 1 LL (4)
From the second equation:
(b + y = b + 2 or b + y = b 2) and b + 2 0
(y = 2 or 2b + y = 2) and b 2
When y = 2 and b 2 LL (5)
When 2b + y = 2 and b 2 (y 2 and b 2 and 2b + y = 2) LL (6)
(3) and (5): y = 1, b 1 and y = 2 and b 2 contradiction
(3) and (6): y = 1, b 1 and (y 2, b 2, 2b + y = 2) y = 1 and b = 1.5 and b 1 !!!
(4) and (6): (y 1, b = 1) and (y 2, b 2, 2b + y = 2) y = 4, b = 1 and y 1 !!!
(4) and (5): (b = 1, y 1) and (y = 2, b 2) b = 1 and y = 2
b=1
I4.3 Let x, y and z be positive integers. If |x y|2010 + |z x|2011 = b and c = |x y| + |y z| + |z x|,
Reference: 1996 FI2.3, 2005FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
Clearly |x y| and |z x| are non-negative integers
|x y|2010 + |z x|2011 = 1 (|x y| = 0 and |z x| = 1) or (|x y| = 1 and |z x| = 0)
When x = y and |z x| = 1, c = 0 + |y z| + |z x| = 2|z x| = 2
When |x y| = 1 and |z x| = 0, c = 1 + |y z| + 0 = 1 + |y x| = 1 + 1 = 2
I4.4 In Figure 1, let ODC be a triangle. Given that FH, AB,
AC and BD are line segments such that AB intersects FH
at G, AC, BD and FH intersect at E,GE = 1, EH = c and
FH // OC. If d = EF, find the value of d.
Remark: there are some typing mistakes in the Chinese
old version: AC AD FH // BC
AGE ~ ABC (equiangular)
CE
Let = k, AE = x, AG = t.
AE
BC = k + 1, EC = kx, GB = kt (ratio of sides, ~s)
DEH ~ DBC (equiangular) Method 2
BC k + 1 DB AFG ~ AOB and AGE ~ABC
= = (ratio of sides, ~s)
EH 2 DE d 1 OB
Let DE = 2y DB = (k + 1)y 1 BC
EB = DB DE = (k 1)y DFE ~DOB and DEH ~ DBC
AFG ~ AOB (equiangular) d OB
OB AB 2 BC
FG = d 1, = (ratio of sides, ~s)
FG AG Equating the two equations
OB = (d 1)
(k + 1)t = (d 1)(k + 1) d 1 d
=
t 1 2
DFE ~ DOB (equiangular) d = 2
FE DE
OB DB
d = (d 1)(k + 1)
2y
d=2
(k + 1) y
Individual Spare
the value of P.
(2, 2, 1), (2, 2, 3), (3, 3, 1), (3, 3, 2), (3, 3, 4), (3, 3, 5),
(4, 4, 1), (4, 4, 2), (4, 4, 3), (4, 4, 5), (4, 4, 6), (4, 4, 7),
(5, 5, 1), , (5, 5, 4), (5, 5, 6), (5, 5, 7), (5, 5, 8), (5, 5, 9),
(6, 6, 1), , (6, 6, 9) (except (6, 6, 6))
(7, 7, 1), , (7, 7, 9) (except (7, 7, 7))
(8, 8, 1), , (8, 8, 9) (except (8, 8, 8))
(9, 9, 1), , (9, 9, 8)
(2, 3, 4), (2, 4, 5), (2, 5, 6), (2, 6, 7), (2, 7, 8), (2, 8, 9),
(3, 4, 5), (3, 4, 6), (3, 5, 6), (3, 5, 7), (3, 6, 7), (3, 6, 8), (3, 7, 8), (3, 7, 9), (3, 8, 9),
(4, 5, 6), (4, 5, 7), (4, 5, 8), (4, 6, 7), (4, 6, 8), (4, 6, 9), (4, 7, 8), (4, 7, 9), (4, 8, 9),
(5, 6, 7), (5, 6, 8), (5, 6, 9), (5, 7, 8), (5, 7, 9), (5, 8, 9), (6, 7, 8), (6, 7, 9), (6, 8, 9), (7, 8, 9).
(1, 2, 3), , (1, 2, 9) (7 triples)
(1, 3, 4), , (1, 3, 9) (6 triples)
(1, 4, 5), , (1, 4, 9) (5 triples)
(1, 5, 6), , (1, 5, 9) (4 triples)
(1, 6, 7), (1, 6, 8), (1, 6, 9), (1, 7, 8), (1, 7, 9), (1, 8, 9),
(2, 2, 4), , (2, 2, 9) (6 triples)
(2, 3, 5), , (2, 3, 9) (5 triples)
(2, 4, 6), , (2, 4, 9) (4 triples)
(2, 5, 7), (2, 5, 8), (2, 5, 9), (2, 6, 8), (2, 6, 9), (2, 7, 9),
(3, 3, 6), , (3, 3, 9) (4 triples)
(3, 4, 7), (3, 4, 8), (3, 4, 9), (3, 5, 8), (3, 5, 9), (3, 6, 9), (4, 4, 8), (4, 4, 9), (4, 5, 9).
= (8 + 7 + + 1) + (6 + 5 + + 1) + (4 + 3 + 2 + 1) + (2 + 1) = 36 + 21 + 10 + 3 = 70
Q = 3 log128 2 + 5 log128 2 + 7 log128 2 + + 95 log128 2
3 + 95
= (3 + 5 + + 95) log128 2 = 47 log128 2 = log128 22303 = log128 (27)329 = 329
2
1
12x 4y + 24 = 0 Height = 6, base = 2; area R = 6 2 = 6
2
1 1
x x3
1 1 2
S = x + x 2 1 + 2 = R x + 3 = R3 3R = 216 3(6) = 198
1
x x x
Sample Group Event
Group Event 1 (2009 Final Group Event 1)
q=3
4 3x
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4
x y 7
y x 12

x y 7
xy 12
144 144
x x
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
xy 12
Q x y = 7 and x + y = w
w+7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w+7 w7
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
SG.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x + y 2 1 = 0 .
2
1
2
1 1 3
x= , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 In Figure 1, BC is the diameter of the circle. A is a point on the
circle, AB and AC are line segments and AD is a line segment
perpendicular to BC. If BD = 1, DC = 4 and AD = a, find the
value of a.
ABD ~ CAD (equiangular)
a 4
= (ratio of sides ~s)
1 a
a2 = 1 4
a=2
1
G1.2 If b = 1 , find the value of b.
1
1
1
1
1
1
12
1 1 2 1 1
1 1 = 3; 1 = ; 1 = ; b = 1 + 2 = 3
2 1
1 1 3 1
1 2
2 1 1
1
2
x + 3 y 3z
G1.3 If x, y and z are real numbers, xyz 0, 2xy = 3yz = 5xz and c = , find the value of c.
x + 3 y 6z
2 xy 3 yz 5 xz 2 3 5
= = = = x:y:z=3:5:2
xyz xyz xyz z x y
Let x = 3k, y = 5k, z = 2k
x + 3 y 3z 3k + 15k 6k
c= = =2
x + 3 y 6 z 3k + 15k 12k
G1.4 If x is an integer satisfying log 1 4 (2 x + 1) < log 12 ( x 1) , find the maximum value of x.
log(2 x + 1) log( x 1)
<
1 1
log log
4 2
log(2 x + 1) log( x 1)
<
2 log 2 log 2
log(2x + 1) > 2 log(x 1)
2x + 1 > (x 1)2
x2 4x < 0
0<x<4
The maximum integral value of x is 3.
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, two rectangles with widths 4 and 5
units cross each other at 30. Find the area of the
overlapped region.
Let AB = x, BC = y, ABC = 30
x sin 30 = 5 x = 10
y sin 30 = 4 y = 8
Area = xy sin 30 = 1080.5 = 40
G2.2 From 1 to 100, take a pair of integers (repetitions allowed) so that their sum is greater than
100. How many ways are there to pick such pairs?
(1, 100), (2, 100), , (100, 100) (100 pairs)
(2, 99), , (99, 99) (98 pairs)
(3, 98), , (98, 98) (96 pairs)
...............................................
(49, 52), (50, 52), (51, 52), (52, 52) (4 pairs)
(50, 51), (51, 51) (2 pairs)
2 + 100
Total number of pairs = 2 + 4 + + 100 = 50 = 2550
2
Remark: the original version was "take a pair of numbers"1100
There are infinitely many ways if the numbers are not confined to be integers.
G2.3 In Figure 2, there is a circle with centre O and

radius r. Triangle ACD intersects the circle at
B, C, D and E. Line segment AE has the same
length as the radius. If DAC = 20 and
DOC = x, find the value of x.
AOE = 20 (Given AE = OE, base s isos. )
OED = 20 + 20 = 40 (ext. of AOE)
ODE = OED = 40 (base s isos. )
x = 20 + 40 = 60 (ext. of AOD)
1 2 3 1 6 5 x y z
G2.4 Given that + + = 0 and = 0 . If P = + + , find the value of P.
x y z x y z y z x
8 8
(1) (2): + = 0 y = z
y z
4 4
3(1) + (2): + = 0 x = z
x z
x y z z z z
P= + + = + + = 1
y z x z z z
Group Event 3
G3.1 If a is a positive integer and a2 + 100a is a prime number, find the maximum value of a.
a(a + 100) is a prime number.
a = 1, a2 + 100a = 101 which is a prime number
G3.2 Let a, b and c be real numbers. If 1 is a root of x2 + ax + 2 = 0

and a and b be roots of x2 + 5x + c = 0, find the value of a + b + c.
1 + a + 2 = 0 a = 3
3 + b = 5 b = 2
c = 3b = 6
a+b+c=1
x y 10
G3.3 Let x and y be positive real numbers with x < y. If x + y = 1 and + =
y x 3
and x < y, find the value of y x.
Method 2
(1)2: x + y + 2 xy = 1
x 1 y
1 (x + y ) Let z = , then =
xy = (3) y z x
2
x + y 10
1 10
(2): = (4) (2) becomes z + =
xy 3 z 3
2
3z 10z + 3 = 0
x+ y 10
Sub. (3) into (4): 1 ( x + y )
= (3z 1)(z 3) = 0
3 1
2
z = or 3
6(x + y) = 10(1 x y) 3
16(x + y) = 10 Qx<y
5 x 1
x+y= z= < 1 z = only
8 y 3
1 (x + y ) 1 5 3
xy = = 1 = 1 x
1 13
2 2 8 16 y x y 1
= = =
9 y+ x 1+ x 1+ 1
3
2
xy = y
256 1
25 9 1 Q x + y =1 y x=
(y x)2 = (x + y)2 4xy = = 2
( )( )
64 64 4 1
1 yx= y x y+ x =
yx= 2
2
G3.4 Spilt the numbers 1, 2, , 10 into two groups and let P1 be the product of the first group and
P
P2 the product of the second group. If P1 is a multiple of P2, find the minimum value of 1 .
P2
P1 = kP2, where k is a positive integer.
All prime factors of P2 can divide P1.
10
= 2, 10 must be a factor of the numerator and 5 must a factor of the denominator
5
7 is a prime which must be a factor of the numerator.
Among the even numbers 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, there are 8 factors of 2.
Among the number 3, 6, 9, there are 4 factors of 3.
P 8 7 9 10
Minimum value of 1 = =7
P2 1 2 3 4 5 6
Group Event 4
G4.1 If P = 24 2007 2009 2011 2013 + 10 2010 2010 9 4000 , find the value of P.
Let x = 2010, 2007 = x 3, 2009 = x 1, 2011 = x + 1, 2013 = x + 3
( )( )
P = 24 ( x 3) ( x 1) ( x + 1) ( x + 3) + 10 x 2 9 4000 = 24 x 2 9 x 2 1 + 10 x 2 9 4000
= 24 x 4 10 x 2 + 9 + 10 x 2 9 4000 = 2x 4000 = 20
n
G4.2 If 9x2 + nx + 1 and 4y2 + 12y + m are squares with n > 0, find the value of .
m
9x2 + nx + 1 = (3x + 1)2 n = 6
4y2 + 12y + m = (2y + 3)2 m = 9
n 2
=
m 3
47 4 n
G4.3 Let n and + be positive integers. If r is the remainder of n divided by 15, find
5 47 141
the value of r.
47 4 n 4 n n + 12
+ = + = , which is an integer
5 47 141 5 15 15
n + 12 = 15k, where k is a positive integer
r=3
G4.4 In figure 1, ABCD is a rectangle, and E and F are points on

AD and DC, respectively. Also, G is the intersection of AF
and BE, H is the intersection of AF and CE, and I is the
intersection of BF and CE. If the areas of AGE, DEHF and
CIF are 2, 3 and 1, respectively, find the area of the grey
region BGHI. (Reference: 2014 FI1.1)
Remark: there is a spelling mistake in the English version.
old version : gray region
Let the area of EGH = x, area of BCI = z, area of BGHI = w
1
Area of BCE = (area of ABCD) = area ADF + area BCF
2
x+w+z=3+x+2+1+z
w=6
Area of the grey region BGHI = 6
Group Spare
= 1, = 5
If x < 1, |x | + |x | = 1 x + 5 x = 6 2x > 4
If 1 x 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + 5 x = 4
If x > 5, |x | + |x | = x 1 + x 5 = 2x 6 > 4
m = min. of |x | + |x | = 4
|x | + |x | |x 1 + 5 x| = 4 m = 4
If , , > 0, then
++ 3
(A.M. G.M.)
3
2 3
4
3
=2>2
4 = (2 2)2
3 2 + 2 = 0
( + 1)(2 2 + 2) = 0
= 1, = 4
|| + || + || = 1 + 1 + 4 = 6
v = min. of || + || + || = 6
of .
y = x + 1 2|x| + 2 x = 3 2|x|
0 |x| 2 3 3 2|x| 1
=3
2 2 2 2
x2 + y2 + z2 + w2 3(x + y + z + w) = 0
2 9 2 9 2 9 2 9
x 3 x + + y 3 y + + z 3 z + + w 3w + = 9
4 4 4 4
2 2 2 2
3 3 3 3
x + y +z +w = 9
2 2 2 2
(2x 3) + (2y 3) + (2z 3) + (2w 3)2 = 36
2 2 2

a , b, c, d = 1, 3, 5
(3, 3, 3, 3) (2) 1
F = (12 + 1)16
= 208
4
1 21 2 13 3 4 4 5 3 Spare
09-10 105
Individual 7
6 1 7 8 154 9 2 10 1508 2
13
09-10 1 118 2 11 3 20 4 144 5 0.8 Spare

Group 6 250000 7 4019 8 10105 9 3 10 20 15
Individual Events
I1 In how many possible ways can 8 identical balls be distributed to 3 distinct boxes so that
every box contains at least one ball?
Align the 8 balls in a row. There are 7 gaps between the 8 balls. Put 2 sticks into two of these
gaps, so as to divide the balls into 3 groups.
| |
76
2
I2 If and are the two real roots of the quadratic equation x2 x 1 = 0, find the value of
6 + 8.
Reference 1993 HG2, 2013 HG4
If , are the roots of x2 3x 3 = 0, find 3 + 12.
+ = 1, = 1
2 = + 1
6 = (2)3 = ( + 1)3 = 3 + 32 + 3 + 1
= (2) + 3( + 1) + 3 + 1
= ( + 1) + 6 + 4
= 2 + 7 + 4 = ( + 1) + 7 + 4 = 8 + 5
6 + 8 = 8( + ) + 5 = 8 + 5 = 13
1 1 1 1
I3 If a = + + +L+ , find the value of a. (Reference: 2015 HG1)
5 10 10 15 15 20 100 105
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
a = + + +L+ = 1 + + L + = 1
25 1 2 2 3 3 4 20 21 25 2 2 3 20 21 25 21
20 4
a= =
25 21 105
I4 Given that x + y + z = 3 and x3 + y3 + z3 = 3, where x, y, z are integers. If x < 0, find the value
of y.
Let x = a, where a > 0, then y + z = a + 3 (3), y3 + z3 = a3 + 3 (4)
From (4): (y + z)3 3yz(y + z) = a3 + 3
(a + 3)3 a3 3 = 3yz(a + 3)
a 3 + 9a 2 + 27a + 27 a 3 3 9a 2 + 27a + 24 3a 2 + 9a + 8 8
yz = = = = 3a + (5)
3(a + 3) 3(a + 3) a+3 a+3
yz is an integer a = 1 or 5
Q (y z)2 = (y + z)2 4yz
When a = 1, x = 1, y + z = 4 from (3) and yz = 5 from (5)
(y z)2 = 42 45 = 4 < 0, impossible. Rejected.
When a = 5, y + z = 8 and yz = 16
Solving for y and z gives x = 5, y = 4, z = 4
1 3
I5 Given that a, b, c, d are positive integers satisfying loga b = and logc d = .
2 4
If a c = 9, find the value of b d.
1 3 4
a 2 = b and c 4 = d a = b2 and c = d 3
Sub. them into a c = 9.
4
b2 d 3 = 9
2
2

b + d 3 b d 3 = 9

2 2 2 2
b + d 3 = 3, b d 3 = 3 (no solution, rejected) or b + d 3 = 9, b d 3 = 1
2
b = 5, d = 4 b = 5, d = 8 b d = 3
3
I6 If x 1 y 2 + y 1 x 2 = 1 , where 0 x, y 1, find the value of x2 + y2.

Method 1
Let x = sin A, y = sin B, then 1 y 2 = cos B, 1 x 2 = cos A
The equation becomes sin A cos B + cos A sin B = 1
sin (A + B) = 1
A + B = 90 B = 90 A
x2 + y2 = sin2 A + sin2B = sin2 A + sin2(90 A) = sin2 A + cos2 A = 1
Method 2 x 1 y 2 = 1 y 1 x 2
x2(1 y2) = 1 2y 1 x 2 + y2(1 x2)
2y 1 x 2 = 1 + y2 x2
4y2(1 x2) = y4 2x2y2 + x4 + 2y2 2x2 + 1
x4 + 2x2y2 + y4 2y2 2x2 + 1 = 0
(x2 + y2)2 2(x2 + y2) + 1 = 0
(x2 + y2 1)2 = 0
x2 + y2 = 1
I7. In figure 1, ABCD is a trapezium. The lengths of segments AD, BC
and DC are 12, 7 and 12 respectively. If segments AD and BC are
sin
both perpendicular to DC, find the value of .
sin
Method 1
Draw a perpendicular line from B onto AD.
12 12 12
tan = = 1; tan( + ) = =
12 12 7 5
tan ( + ) tan 125 1 12 5 7
tan = tan[( + ) ] = = = =
1 + tan ( + ) tan 1 + 125 5 + 12 17
7 7 7 1
sin = = = ; sin =
17 2 + 7 2 338 13 2 2
sin 7
=
sin 13
Method 2 ACB = (alt. s, AD // BC)
sin 7 7
= = (Sine law on ABC)
sin AB 13
I8. In Figure 2, ABC is a triangle satisfying x y z and 4x = 7z. If

the maximum value of x is m and the minimum value of x is n,
find the value of m + n.
x = 7k, z = 4k, x + y + z = 180 y = 180 11k
Q x y z 7k 180 11k 4k
18k 180 and 180 15k
12 k 10
84 x = 7k 70
m = 84, n = 70
m + n = 154
I9 Arrange the numbers 1, 2, , n (n 3) in a circle so that adjacent numbers always differ by 1

or 2. Find the number of possible such circular arrangements.
When n = 3, there are two possible arrangements: 1, 2, 3 or 1, 3, 2.
When n = 4, there are two possible arrangements: 1, 2, 4, 3 or 1, 3, 4, 2.
Deductively, for any n 3, there are two possible arrangements:
1, 2, 4, 6, 8, , largest even integer, largest odd integer, , 7, 5, 3 or
1, 3, 5, 7, , largest odd integer, largest even integer, , 6, 4, 2.
I10 If x is the largest integer less than or equal to x, find the number of distinct values in the
12 2 2 2010 2
following 2010 numbers: ,
,, .
2010 2010 2010
Reference: IMO Preliminary Selection Contest - Hong Kong 2006 Q13.
n2
Let f (n) = , where n is an integer from 1 to 2010.
2010
2n + 1
f (n + 1) f (n) =
2010
2n + 1
f (n + 1) f (n) < 1 < 1 n < 1004.5
2010
10052 1005
f (1005) = = = 502.5
2010 2
f (1) = 0, f (2) = 0, , f (1005) = 502, the sequence contain 503 different integers.
On the other hand, when n > 1005, f (n + 1) f (n) > 1
All numbers in the sequence f (1006), , f (2010) are different, total 1005 numbers
503 + 1005 = 1508. The number of distinct values is 1508.
Spare individual
IS In Figure 3, ABC is an isosceles triangle and P is a point on
BC. If BP2 + CP2 : AP2 = k : 1, find the value of k.
Let AB = AC = a, BC = 2 a, BP = x, PC = y, AP = t
Let APC = , APB = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
Apply cosine rule on ABP and ACP
t 2 + y2 a2 t 2 + x2 a2 Figure 3
cos = (1); cos = (2)
2ty 2tx
t 2 + y 2 a2 t 2 + x2 a2
(1) + (2): + =0
2ty 2tx
x(t2 + y2 a2) + y(t2 + x2 a2) = 0
t2(x + y) + xy(x + y) a2(x + y) = 0
(x + y)(t2 + xy a2) = 0
x + y = 0 (rejected, Q x > 0, y > 0) or t2 + xy a2 = 0
t2 + xy = a2 (*)
BP2 + CP2 : AP2 = x2 + y2 : t2 = [(x + y)2 2xy] : t2 = [BC2 2xy] : t2 = (2a2 2xy) : t2
= 2(a2 xy) : t2 = 2t2 : t2 by (*)
k=2
ABC = ACB (base s isosceles triangle)
180 90
o o
= (s sum of )
2
= 45
Rotate AP anticlockwise 90 about the centre at A to AQ. A
AP = AQ and PAQ = 90 (property of rotation)
BAP = 90 PAC = CAQ
Q
AB = AC (given)
ABP ACQ (S.A.S.)
ACQ = ABP = 45 (corr. s s)
BP = CQ (corr. sides s) B P C
PCQ = ACP + ACQ = 90
BP2 + CP2 : AP2 = (CQ2 + CP2) : AP2
= PQ2 : AP2 (Pythagoras theorem)
2
= 1 : cos 45
=2:1
k=2
Group Events
G1 Given that the six-digit number 503xyz is divisible by 7, 9, 11. Find the minimum value of the
three-digit number xyz.
There is no common factor for 7, 9, 11 and the L.C.M. of them are 693.
504 is divisible by 7 and 9. 504504 is divisible by 693.
504504 693 = 503811, 503811 693 = 503118.
The three-digit number is 118.
G2 Find the smallest positive integer n so that 20092009
144 424 L42009
4 3 is divisible by 11.
n copies of 2009

Sum of odd digits sum of even digits = multiples of 11
n(0 + 9) n(2 + 0) = 11m, where m is an integer.
7n = 11m Smallest n = 11.
G3 In figure 1, ABC is a triangle. D is a point on AC such that AB = AD.
If ABC ACB = 40, find the value of x. Reference: 1985 FI2.2
Let ACB = y, then ABC = y + 40
BAC = 180 y y 40 = 140 2y (s sum of ABC)
ADB = ABD =
( )
180o 140o 2 y o
= 20 + y (base s isos. )
Figure 1
2
x = CBD = ADB ACB = 20 + y y = 20 (ext. of BCD)
x = 20
Method 2 Let ACB = y
ADB = x + y (ext. of BCD)
ABD = x + y (base s isosceles ABD)
ABC = x + x + y = 2x + y
ABC ACB = 40
2x + y y = 40
x = 20
G4 In figure 2, given that the area of the shaded region is 35 cm2. If the area
of the trapezium ABCD is z cm2, find the value of z.
Suppose AC and BD intersect at K.
10 12
SBCD = = 60 = SCDK + SBCK = 35 + SBCK SBCK = 25
2
BCK and DCK have the same height but different bases.
BK : KD = SBCK : SDCK = 25 : 35 = 5 : 7 BK = 5t, KD = 7t
BCK ~DAK (equiangular) SBCK : SDAK = BK2 : DK2 = 72 : 52 = 49 :25
ABK and ADK have the same height but different bases.
SABK : SADK = BK : KD = 5 : 7 z = SABCD = 35 + 25 + 49 + 35 = 144
G5 Three numbers are drawn from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Find the probability that the numbers drawn
contain at least two consecutive numbers.
Method 1
Favourable outcomes = {123, 124, 125, 126, 234, 235, 236, 134, 345, 346, 145, 245, 456, 156,
256, 356}, 16 outcomes
16 4
Probability = 6 = = 0.8
C3 5
4
Method 2 Probability = 1 P(135, 136, 146 or 246) = 1 6 = 0.8
C3
G6 Find the minimum value of the following function: f (x) = |x 1| + |x 2| + + |x 1000|,

where x is a real number.
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2011 FGS.1, 2012 FG2.3
Method 1
f (500) = |500 1| + |500 2| + + |500 1000| = (499 + 498 + + 1)2 + 500 = 250000
Let n be an integer, for 1 n 500 and x n,
|x n| + |x (1001 n)| = n x + 1001 n x = 1001 2x 1001 2n
|500 n| + |500 (1001 n)| = 500 n + 501 n = 1001 2n
For 1 n < x 500, |x n| + |x (1001 n)| = x n + 1001 n x = 1001 2n
1000 1000
If x 500, f (x) f (500) = x n 500 n
n =1 n =1
= x n + x (1001 n ) [ 500 n + 500 (1001 n ) ]

500
500
n =1 n =1
500
[1001 2n (1001 2n )] 0
n =1
f (1001 x) = |1001 x 1| + |1001 x 2| + + |1001 x 1000|

= |1000 x| + |999 x| + + |1 x|
= |x 1| + |x 2| + + |x 1000| = f (x)
f (x) f (500) = 250000 for all real values of x.
Method 2 We use the following 2 results: (1) |a b| = |b a| and (2) |a| + |b| |a + b|
|x 1| + |x 1000| = |x 1| + |1000 x| |999| = 999
|x 2| + |x 999| = |x 2| + |999 x| |997| = 997
.................................................................................
|x 500| + |x 501| = |x 500| + |501 x| 1
Add up these 500 inequalities: f (x) 1 + 3 + + 999 = (1 + 999 ) 500 = 250000.
1
2
1 m 1
G7 Let m, n be positive integers such that < < . Find the minimum value of n.
2010 n 2009
Method 1
2009 1 nm 1 2008
= 1 > > 1 =
2010 2010 n 2009 2009
1 2010 n 2009 1
1+ = < < = 1+
2009 2009 n m 2008 2008
1 n m 1
< 1 = <
2009 n m n m 2008
2008 1 m n 2m 1 2007
= 1 > 1 = > 1 =
2009 2009 nm nm 2008 2008
1 2009 n m 2008 1
1+ = < < = 1+
2008 2008 n 2m 2007 2007
1 nm m 1
< 1 = <
2008 n 2m n 2m 2007
1 m 1
Claim: < < for a = 0, 1, 2, , 2008.
2010 a n am 2009 a
Proof: Induction on a. When a = 0, 1, 2; proved above.
1 m 1
Suppose < < for some integer k, where 0 k < 2008
2010 k n km 2009 k
2009 k 1 m n (k + 1)m 1 2008 k
= 1 > 1 = > 1 =
2010 k 2010 k n km n km 2009 k 2009 k
1 2010 k n km 2009 k 1
1+ = < < = 1+
2009 k 2009 k n (k + 1)m 2008 k 2008 k
1 n km m 1
< 1 = <
2009 k n (k + 1)m n (k + 1)m 2008 k
1 m 1
< <
2010 (k + 1) n (k + 1)m 2009 (k + 1)
By MI, the statement is true for a = 0, 1, 2, , 2008
1 m 1
Put a = 2008: < <
2010 2008 n 2008m 2009 2008
1 m
< <1
2 n 2008m
m 2
The smallest possible n is found by =
n 2008m 3
m = 2, n 20082 = 3
n = 4019
1 m 1 n
Method 2 < < 2010 > > 2009 2010m > n > 2009m
2010 n 2009 m
Q m, n are positive integers. We wish to find the least value of n
It is equivalent to find the least value of m.
When m = 1, 2010 > n > 2009, no solution for n.
When m = 2, 4020 > n > 4018
n = 4019
G8 Let a be a positive integer. If the sum of all digits of a is equal to 7, then a is called a lucky
number. For example, 7, 61, 12310 are lucky numbers.
List all lucky numbers in ascending order a1, a2, a3, . If an = 1600, find the value of a2n.
Number of digits smallest, , largest Number of lucky numbers subtotal
1 7 1 1
2 16, 25, , 61, 70 7 7
3 106, 115, , 160 7
205, 214, , 250 6
304, 313, , 340 5

700 1 28
4 1006, 1015, , 1060 7
1105, 1114, , 1150 6
1204, , 1240 5

1600 1 a64 = 1600
2005, , 2050 6

2500 1
3004, , 3040 5

3400 1
4XYZ 4+3+2+1
5XYZ 3+2+1
6XYZ 2+1
7000 1 84
5 100XY 7
10105 1
a128 = 10105
G9 If log4(x + 2y) + log4(x 2y) = 1, find the minimum value of |x| |y|.
(x + 2y)(x 2y) = 4
x2 4y2 = 4
x2 = 4y2 + 4
T = |x| |y| = 4( y 2 + 1) |y|
(
T + |y| = 4 y 2 + 1 )
T2 + y2 + 2|y|T = 4(y2 + 1)
3|y|2 2|y|T + (4 T2) = 0
= 4[T2 (3)(4 T2)] 0
4T2 12 0
T 3
The minimum value of |x| |y| is 3.
G10 In Figure 3, in ABC, AB = AC, x 45. If P and Q

are two points on AC and AB respectively, and AP
= PQ = QB = BC AQ, find the value of x.
Reference:2004 HG9, HKCEE 2002 Q10
Method 1
Join PB. AQP = x (base s isos. )
x o C
= (ext. of BPQ)
2
Let R be the mid point of PB. Join QR and P S
produce its own length to S so that QR = RS. R
Join PS, BS and CS. x
PQBS is a //-gram (diagonals bisect each other) A Q B
PS = PQ = BQ = BS (opp. sides of //-gram)
Q PS // QB
CPS = x (corr. s, PS // AB)
PC = AC AP = AB BQ = AQ
SPC PAQ (S.A.S.)
SC = PQ (corr. sides, 's)
BS = SC = BC
BCS is an equilateral triangle.
SBC = SCB = 60
SCP = AQP = x (corr. s, 's)
xo xo
SBQ = + = x (corr. s, 's)
2 2
In ABC, x + x + x + 60 + 60 = 180 (s sum of )
x = 20
Method 2 Let AP = PQ = QB = BC = t, let AQ = y
AQ = y = 2t cos x = y + t t = AC AP = CP
o
x
= (ext. of BPQ)
2
QPC = 2x (ext. of APQ)
x 3x o
o
BPC = QPC BPQ = 2x =
2 2
o
x
ABC = ACB = 90 (s sum of isos. ABC)
2
xo xo
CBP = ABC PBQ = 90 = 90 x
2 2
CP BC
= (Sine law on BCP)
sin CBP sin BPC
2t cos x o t
=
sin (90 x )
o o
3x o
sin
2
o
3x 1
sin = x = 20
2 2
Method 3 Reflect ABP along PB to RPB

ABP RPB (by construction) R C
Join AR, AB = BR (corr. sides, 's)
AQP = x (base s isos. ) P
x o x
= (ext. of BPQ)
2 A Q B
xo
PBR = (corr. s, 's)
2
xo xo
ABR = ABP + RBP = + = x
2 2
ABR = BAC = x
AC = AB (given)
= BR (corr. sides, 's)
ABR BAC (S.A.S.)
AR = BC (corr. sides, 's)
= AP = PR (given)
APR is an equilateral triangle. (3 sides equal)
PAR = 60 ( of an equilateral triangle)
BAR = 60 + x
xo
ABC = 90 (s sum of isos. ABC)
2
ABC = BAR (corr. s, 's)
o
x
60 + x = 90
2
x = 20
Method 4 Let AP = PQ = QB = BC = t
Use Q as centre, QP as radius to draw an arc, R C
cutting AC at R. QR = QP = t (radius of the arc)
AQP = x (base s isos. ) P t
QPR = 2x (ext. of APQ) t t t
QRP = 2x (base s isos. ) x
BQR = 3x (ext. of AQR) A Q t B
o
3x
QBR = 90 (s sum of isos. QBR)
2
3x o xo
BRC = 90 + x = 90 (ext. of ABR)
2 2
xo
ABC = ACB = 90 = BRC (s sum of isos. ABC)
2
BR = BC = t (sides opp. eq. s)
BQR is an equilateral triangle. (3 sides equal)
BQR = 3x = 60
x = 20
AQP = x (base s isos. ) E
BPQ = PBQ (base s isos. ) t
o
x
= (ext. of BPQ) D
2
QPC = 2x (ext. of APQ) t
x o 3x o
BPC = QPC BPQ = 2x = C
2 2
o
x
2 t P t
As shown, construct two triangles so that
ABC ACD ADE
x t
Join BE, BD, BP. A y Q t B
BCD BQP (S.A.S.)
xo xo
CBD = QBP = ; BDC = BPQ = (corr. s 's)
2 2
BDE = ADE + ADC BDC
xo xo xo
= 90 + 90
2 2 2
o
3x
= 180
2
= 180 BPC
= APB (adj. s on st. line)
BDE = APB (2)
AP = DE (3) (by construction, corr. sides 's)
By (1), (2) and (3), BDE BPA (S.A.S.)
BE = AB = y + t = AE (corr. sides 's)
ABE is an equilateral triangle
BAE = x + x + x = 60 (angle of an equilateral triangle)
x = 20
Method 6 The method is provided by Ms. Li Wai Man D E t C

x
Construct another identical triangle ACD so that
ACD = x, CE = t = EP = PA = AD t
CD = AB and AD = BC t P t
ABCD is a parallelogram (opp. sides equal) t t
x
CE = t = QB and CE // BQ (property of //-gram)
BCEQ is a parallelogram (opp. sides equal and //) A Q t B
EQ = t = PQ = EQ (property of //-gram)
PQE is an equilateral triangle
QPE = x + 2x = 60
x = 20
D
t
o
=
x
(ext. of BPQ)
C
2
QPC = 2x (ext. of APQ) P t
x o 3x o
t
BPC = QPC BPQ = 2x = x t
2 2 A y Q t B
o
x
2
As shown, reflect ABC along AC to ADC
ABC ADD
Join BD, BP, PD.
BCD BQP (S.A.S.)
BP = PD (corr. sides 's)
BDP is an equilateral triangle.
3x o
BPD = 2BPC = 2 = 60
2
x = 20
Spare Group
GS In Figure 4, ABCD is a rectangle. Let E and F be two points on
DC and AB respectively, so that AFCE is a rhombus. If AB = 16
and BC = 12, find the value of EF.
Let AF = FC = CE = EA = t
DE = 16 t = BF
In ADE, 122 + (16 t)2 = t2 (Pythagoras Theorem)
144 + 256 32t + t2 = t2
32t = 400
t = 12.5
In ACD, AC2 = 122 + 162 (Pythagoras Theorem)
AC = 20
A t F16 - tB
G = centre of rectangle = centre of the rhombus
AG = GC = 10 (Diagonal of a rectangle) x
t t 12
Let EG = x = FG (Diagonal of a rhombus) 12 x G
In AEG, x2 + AG2 = t2 (Pythagoras Theorem)
2 2 2
x + 10 = 12.5 D
x = 7.5 16 - tE t C
EF = 2x = 15
1. Figure 1 shows a line segment AB of length 1 unit. Construct
a line segment of length 7 units. Figure 1
Method 1
(1) Draw a line segment AC = 4. P
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC, O is the 7 3
mid-point of AC. AO = OC.
(3) Use O as centre, OA = OC as radius to draw a
semi-circle. A 4 O C
(4) Use C as centre, radius 3 to draw an arc, which
intersects the semi-circle at P.
APC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
(5) Join AP.
AP = 42 32 = 7 (Pythagoras Theorem)
Method 2 P
(1) Draw a line segment ABC, with AB = 1, BC = 7.
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC, O is the
mid-point of AC. AO = OC = 4.
(3) Use O as centre, OA = OC = 4 as radius to draw a A 1 B 7 O C
circle with AC as diameter.
(4) Draw a perpendicular line PBQ ABC. Q
PB = BQ ( from centre bisect chord)
By intersection chord theorem, ABBC = PBBQ
17 = PB2
PB = 7
2. Given that ABC is equilateral. P, Q and R are distinct

points lying on the lines AB, BC and CA such that OP
AB, OQ BC, OR CA and OP = OQ = OR. Figure 2 B
shows the line segment OP. Construct ABC.
In the figure, all circles have equal radii. Q H J
Construct equilateral triangles OHP, OHQ, ORI, OPI, HPJ,

O P
HJB, PIK, IKA. C
Join AB. Produce AR and BQ to meet at C. R I K
Then ABC is the required equilateral triangle.

A
3. Figure 3 shows a line segment AB. Construct a triangle

ABC such that AC : BC = 3 : 2 and ACB = 60. D
Method 1 C
1 1
2
Step 2 Construct the perpendicular bisectors of AB and AD
respectively to intersect at the circumcentre O. 3
O 5
Step 3 Use O as centre, OA as radius to draw the
circumscribed circle ABD. 3k M 2k
A P 4
B
4
Step 4 Locate M on AB so that AM : MB = 3 : 2 2
4
(intercept theorem)
X
Step 5 The perpendicular bisector of AB intersect the minor
arc AB at X and AB at P. Produce XM to meet the
circle again at C. Let ACM = , AMC = .
APX BPX (S.A.S.)
AX = BX (corr. sides s)
ACX = BCX = (eq. chords eq. angles)
AMC = , BMC = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
2k : sin = BC : sin (180 ) (2) (BCM)
(1) (2): 3 : 2 = AC : BC
Method 2
C
Step 1 Use A as centre, AB as radius to draw an arc PBH. P
Step 2 Draw an equilateral triangle AHP (H is any point on
the arc) APH = 60
5
2
Step 3 Locate M on PH so that PM = PH 2 2
3 B
(intercept theorem) 4 M 1
3
Step 4 Produce AM to meet the arc at B.
2
Step 5 Draw a line BC // PH to meet AP produced at C. A H
ACB = 60 (corr. s, PH // CB)
ABC ~ AMP (equiangular)
AC : CB = AP : PM (ratio of sides, ~'s)
2
=1: =3:2
3
7
D
C
1 1
2 8
8
2
3 6
O 5
3k M 2k
A 2 4 B L 10k 5 N
4

Step 2 Construct the perpendicular bisectors of AB, BD and AD respectively to intersect at the
circumcentre O.
Step 3 Use O as centre, OA as radius to draw the circumscribed circle ABD.
Step 4 Locate M on AB so that AM : MB = 3 : 2 (intercept theorem)
Step 5 Produce AB to N so that BN = 2AB.
Let AM = 3k, MB = 2k, BN = 10k, then AN : NB = 15k : 10k = 3 : 2 (signed distance)
N divides AB externally in the ratio 3 : 2.
Step 6 Construct the perpendicular bisectors of MN to locate the mid-point L.
Step 7 Use L as centre, LM as radius to draw a semi-circle MCN which intersects the circle
ABD at C.
Step 8 Join AC and BC, then ABC is the required triangle.
Proof: Method 3.1
x
D
C
3 2
A(-5,0) M(-2,0) B(0,0) 4

L(4,0) 6 N(10,0)
For ease of reference, assume AM = 3, MB = 2

Introduce a rectangular co-ordinate system with B as the origin, MN as the x-axis.
The coordinates of A, M, B, L, N are (5, 0), (2, 0), (0, 0), (4, 0) and (10, 0) respectively.
Equation of circle MCN: (x + 2)(x 10) + y2 = 0 y2 = 20 + 8x x2 (1)
Let C = (x, y).
CA = (x + 5)2 + y 2 = x 2 + 10 x + 25 + 20 + 8 x x 2 = 18 x + 45 = 3 2 x + 5 by (1)
CB = x 2 + y 2 = x 2 + 20 + 8 x x 2 = 8 x + 20 = 2 2 x + 5 by (2)
CA 3 2 x + 5 3
= =
CB 2 2 x + 5 2
Proof: (method 3.2)

MN = 12k
ML = LN = 6k D
BL = 4k C
Join CM, CN.
T
Draw TL // CN S x
TL intersects AC, MC
R Q P
and BC at S, R and Q
respectively. x
MCN = 90 3k 2k 4k 6k N
A M B L
in semi-circle
T and P are the feet of perpendiculars from A and B onto TL respectively.

MRL = 90 (corr. s TL//CN)
Let CR = x = RM ( from centre bisects chord)
CSR MSR (S.A.S.) and CQR MQR (S.A.S.)
CS = MS and CQ = MQ (*) (corr. sides, s)
LMR ~ LAT (AT // MR, equiangular)
AT : MR = AL : ML (ratio of sides, ~s)
9k
AT = x = 1.5x
6k
ATS ~ CRS (AT // CR, equiangular)
AS : SC = AT : CR (ratio of sides, ~s)
= 1.5x : x
= 3 : 2 (1)
LMR ~ LBP (BP // MR, equiangular)
BP : MR = BL : ML (ratio of sides, ~s)
4k 2x
BP = x =
6k 3
BPQ ~ CRQ (PB // CR, equiangular)
BQ : QC = BP : CR (ratio of sides, ~s)
2x
= :x
3
= 2 : 3 (2)
By (1): AS : SC = 3 : 2 = AM : MB
SM // CB (converse, theorem of equal ratio)
By (2): BQ : QC = 2 : 3 = BM : MA
AC // MQ (converse, theorem of equal ratio)
CSMQ is a parallelogram formed by 2 pairs of parallel lines
By (*), CS = MS and CQ = MQ
CSMQ is a rhombus
Let SCM = = QCM (Property of a rhombus)
Let AMC = , BMC = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
2k : sin = BC : sin (180 ) (4) (sine rule on BCM)
(3) (4): 3 : 2 = AC : BC
P1 C
1 1
4 5
S 22 V
1
Q R 2
T 2 WA 4
5 B
5
3
2 4
U
Step 1 Construct an equilateral triangle PQR. (QR is any length)
Step 2 Produce PQ and PR longer. On PQ produced and PW produced, mark the points S, T,
U, V and W such that PS = ST = TU = PV = VW, where PS is any distance.
Step 3 Join UW.
Step 4 Copy PUW to BAC.
Step 5 Copy PWU to ABC. AC and BC intersect at C.
Proof: By step 1, QPR = 60 (Property of equilateral triangle)
By step 2, PU : PW = 3 : 2
By step 4 and step 5, PUW = BAC and PWU = ABC
PUW ~ CAB (equiangular)
AC : BC = PU : PW = 3 :2 (corr. sides, ~s)
The proof is completed.
Individual Events
2
SI a 16 I1 a 72 I2 A 2 I3 a 3 I4 a * IS a 20
3
see the remark
3 1
b b 9 B 2 b 18 b 2 b
2 3
c 36 c *31 C 200 c 21 c 1 c 4
see the remark
1 3
d 42 d 1984 D 100 d d d 24
9 4
Group Events
17
SG A G1 44.5 G2 p 6 G3 2 G4 m *3 GS n 4
13 see the remark
x *2 Minimum
B 13 m 1 n 66 y 4 2 86975
y see the remark
7 8 8 1
C 46 k 15 x = 3 A+B+C 6 *
2 3 3 3
see the remark
D 30 n 10 478 8 EC 4 4
SI.1 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. If a = 3 2

2009

1
0 3 2 1
3 2

0 3 2
2009
1 a = 3 2

2009

16 = 0 + 16 = 16
SI.2 In the coordinate plane, if the area of the triangle formed by the x-axis, y-axis and the line
3
4
1 3 3
area = b = 4 =
2 4 2
1 1
SI.3 Given that x 2b and x 3 3 c , find the value of c.
x x
1 1 1
x 3 x 2 2 2 9 x 2 2 11
x x x
1 1 1
c x 3 3 x x 2 1 2 3 11 1 = 36
x x x
SI.4 In Figure 1, = c, = 43, = 59 and = d, find the value of d. A

D
BAD + BCD = 180 (opp. s cyclic quad.)
c + d + 43 + 59 = 180
d = 180 43 59 36 = 42 ( c = 36)
B C
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Three cubes with volumes 1, 8, 27 are glued together at their faces. If a is the smallest
possible surface area of the resulting polyhedron, find the value of a.
The lengths of the 3 cubes are 1, 2 and 3 with surface areas 6,
24 and 54 respectively.
As shown in the figure, if the three cubes are glued together,
the faces stuck together are 22, 22, 11, 11, 11 and 11.
The smallest possible surface area is 6 + 24 + 54 4 4 4.
a = 72
a
I1.2 Given that f (x) = x2 + 10x + 9, and 2 x . If b is the difference of the maximum and
9
minimum values of f, find the value of b.
f (x) = x2 + 10x + 9 = (x 5)2 + 34 for 2 x 8
Maximum = f (5) = 34
Minimum = f (2) = f (8) = 25
b = 34 25 = 9
I1.3 Given that p and q are real numbers with pq = b and p2q + q2p + p + q = 70.
If c = p2 + q2, find the value of c.
pq = 9 (1),
and pq(p + q) + (p + q) = 70 (pq + 1)(p + q) = 70 (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): 10(p + q) = 70
p + q = 7 (3)
c = p2 + q2
= (p + q)2 2pq
= 72 29 = 31
Given that p and q are integers with pq = b and p2q + q2p + p + q = 70.
However, pq = 9, p + q = 7, which give no integral solution.
I1.4 There are c rows in a concert hall and each succeeding row has two more seats than the
previous row. If the middle row has 64 seats, how many seats does the concert have?
There are altogether 31 rows. The 16th row is the middle row, which has 64 seats.
...........................................................
The 1st row has 64 215 = 34 seats.
Total number of seats = 2a n 1d
n
2
= 2 34 31 1 2 = 1984
31
2
Method 2
Total number of seats = (1st row + 31st row) + (2nd row + 30th row) + + 16th row
= (64 + 64) + (64 + 64) + + 64 (31 terms) = 1984
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If a, p, q are primes with a < p and a + p = q, find the value of a.
2 is the only prime number which is even. All other primes are odd numbers.
If both a and p are odd, then q must be even, which means that either q is not a prime or q = 2.
Both cases lead to contradiction.
a=2
I2.2 If b and h are positive integers with b < h and b2 + h2 = b(a + h) + ah, find the value of b.
b2 + h2 = 2b + bh + 2h
bh
2
(b + h) 2(b + h) = 3bh < 3

2
(G.M. < A.M., given that b < h)
2
3t 2
Let t = b + h, t2 2t < t2 8t < 0, where t is a positive integer
4
t 8 < 0 t < 8 b + h < 8 2b < b + h < 8 2b < 8 b < 4
b = 1, 2 or 3
When b = 1, 1 + h2 = 2 + h + 2h h2 3h 1 = 0 h is not an integer, rejected
When b = 2, 4 + h2 = 4 + 2h + 2h h2 4h = 0 h = 4
When b = 3, 9 + h2 = 6 + 3h + 2h h2 5h + 3 = 0 h is not an integer, rejected
b=2
Method 2 h2 (b + 2)h + b2 2b = 0
= (b + 2)2 4(b2 2b) = m2, where m is an integer
3b2 + 12b + 4 = m2
3(b 2)2 + 16 = m2
m2 + 3(b 2)2 = 16, both b and m are integers
m = 2, b = 4, h2 6h + 8 = 0 h = 2 or 4, contradicting b < h, reject
m = 4, b = 2, h = 4 (accept)
I2.3 In a (2b + 1)(2b + 1) checkerboard, two squares not lying in the same row are randomly
chosen. If c is the number of combinations of different pairs of squares chosen, find the value
of c.
There are 25 squares. First we count the number of ways of choosing two squares lying in the
same column or the same row: 5C25 + 5C25 = 100
c = 25C2 100 = 200
Method 2 Label the two squares as A, B.
For each chosen square A (out of 25 squares), B has 16 possible positions.
There are 2516 = 400 combinations.
However, A, B may be inter-changed. We have double counted. c = 200.
1 1 1
I2.4 Given that f (x) = c where x is the greatest integer less than or equal to the
x x 2
real number x. If d is the maximum value of f (x), find the value of d.
1 1
Let = a + b, where a is an integer and 0 b < 1.
x 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
x 2 = a x 2 = a x x 2 = a + b 2 a = b 2
1 1 1 1 1
0 b < 1 b b (equality holds when b = 0)
2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1
f (x) = 200 = 200 b 200 = 100
x x 2 2 2
d = 100 (You may verify the result by putting x = 2.)
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is the number of distinct prime factors of 15147, find the value of a.
15147 = 341117
a=3
1 1
I3.2 If x a and x 3 3 b , find the value of b.
x x
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1996FI1.2, 1998 FG5.2
1 1
x 3 x2 2 2 9
x x
1
x2 2 7
x
1
b = x3 3
x
1 1
= x x 2 1 2
x x
= 3(7 1) = 18
x 5 if x is an odd integer

I3.3 Let f (x) = x .
2 if x is an even integer
If c is an odd integer and f (f (f (c))) = b, find the least value of c.
f (c) = c + 5, which is even
c5
f (f (c)) =
2
c5
If is odd, f (f (f (c))) = 18
2
c5
+ 5 = 18
2
c + 5 = 26
c = 21
c5
If is even, f (f (f (c))) = 18
2
c5
= 18
4
c + 5 = 72
c = 67
The least value of c = 21.
x
I3.4 Let f = x2 + x + 1. If d is the sum of all x for which f (3x) = c, find the value of d.
3
f (x) = (3x)2 + 3x + 1
= 9x2 + 3x + 1
f (3x) = 81x2 + 9x + 1
f (3x) = 21
81x2 + 9x + 1 = 21
81x2 + 9x 20 = 0
9 1
d = sum of roots = =
81 9
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square, E is a point and EAB = 30. If the
D C
area of ABCD is six times that of ABE, then the ratio of AE : AB =
a : 1. Find the value of a.
Let AB = AD = 1, AE = a, let the altitude of ABE from E to AB be h.
1 E
1
area of ABCD is six times that of ABE 1 = 6 1 h
2
a
2
1 h 2 30
h= ,a= = 2h = A 1 B
3 sin 30 3
Remark: The original questions is
ABCD E
EAB = 30 ABCD ABE
AE : AB = a : 1 a
In Figure 1, ABCD is a square, E is a point outside the square
and EAB = 30. If the area of ABCD is six times that of
ABE, then the ratio of AE : AB = a : 1. Find the value of a.
In fact, E must lie inside the square.
log 8 a log 27 a log125 a

I4.2 Given that b = , find the value of b.
log 9 log 25 log 2 log15
a log 8 a log 27 a log125 a3 log 2 3 log 3 3 log 5 2
b= = = 3= 2
2 log 3 2 log 5 log 2 log 3 log 5 log 3 log 5 log 2 3
I4.3 Let c be the remainder of 13 + 23 + + 20093 + 20103 divided by b2, find the value of c.
Use the formula 13 + 23 + + n3 = n 2 n 1 ,
1 2
4
1
13 + 23 + + 20093 + 20103 = 2010 2 20112 = 1005220112 = (4251 + 1)2(4502 + 3)2
4
= (4p + 1)(4q + 1) = 4r + 1, where p, q, r are positive integers.
When it is divided by 2 , the remainder is 1, c = 1.
2
I4.4 In Figure 2, EFG is a right-angled triangle. Given that

H is a point on FG, such that GH : HF = 4 : 5 and
GEH = FEH. If EG = c and FG = d, find the value
of d.
Let FEH = = FEH, GH = 4k, FH = 5k, EG = 1
In EGH, tan = 4k (1)
In EFG, tan 2 = 9k (2)
2 tan 2 4k
Sub. (1) into (2): tan 2 = 9k = F
1 tan
2
1 4k
2
P
1 3
9(1 16k2) = 8 k = d = FG = 5k + 4k = 9k = H
12 4
Method 2 Let GEH = = FEH
From P, draw a line segment FP parallel to GE, which G 1 E
intersects with EH produced at P.
FPH = (alt. s, PF // GE)
FPH ~ GEH (equiangular)
GH GE 4 1
= PF = 1.25 (ratio of sides, ~'s)
HF PF 5 PF
FE = PF = 1.25 (sides opp. eq. s)
d = FG = 1.252 1 = 0.75 (Pythagoras Theorem)
Individual Spare
IS.1 Given that a = 19.19 39.19 38.3839.19 . Find the value of m.
2 2
Let x = 19.19, y = 39.19 then x < y and 38.38 = 2x

a = x 2 y 2 2 xy = y x 2 = y x = 39.19 19.19 = 20
IS.2 Given four points R(0, 0), S(a, 0), T(a, 6) and U(0, 6). If the line y = b(x 7) + 4 cuts the
quadrilateral RSTU into two halves of equal area, find the value of b.
y = b(x 7) + 4 represents a family of
straight lines with slope b which always
U(0, 6) T(20, 6)
pass through a fixed point A(7, 4). A(7, 4)
R(0, 0), S(20, 0), T(20, 6) and U(0, 6). C(10, 3)
RSTU is a rectangle whose base is parallel
to x-axis with centre at C(10, 3).
The line joining AC bisect the area of the
3 4 1 R(0, 0) S(20, 0)
rectangle. b = =
10 7 3
1
x2 2x
IS.3 Given that c is the minimum value of f (x) = 2 b . Find the value of c.
2x 2x 1
x2 2x 3
Let y = f (x) = 2
2x 2x 1
2yx2 + 2yx + y = x2 2x 3
(2y 1)x2 + 2(y + 1)x + (y + 3) = 0
For any values of x, the above quadratic equation has real solution.
0
(y + 1)2 (2y 1)(y + 3) 0
y2 + 2y + 1 (2y2 + 5y 3) 0
y2 3y + 4 0
y2 + 3y 4 0
(y + 4)(y 1) 0
4 y 1
c = the minimum of y = 4
IS.4 Given that f (x) = px6 + qx4 + 3x 2 , and p, q are non-zero real numbers.
If d = f (c) f (c), find the value of d.
d = (pc6 + qc4 + 3c 2 ) (pc6 + qc4 3c 2 ) = 6c = 6(4) = 24
5
SG.1 Given tan = , where 180 270. If A = cos + sin , find the value of A.
12
12 5
cos = , sin =
13 13
12 5 17
A = =
13 13 13

SG.2 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. If B = 10 10 10 10 , find the

value of B.
Reference: 2007 FG2.2 x 3 3 3 3 3 3
Let y = 10 10 10
y2 = 10 + 10 10 10 = 10 + y
y2 y 10 = 0
1 41 1 41
y= or (rejected)
2 2
7 1 41
6 41 7 4
2 2
13.5 10 10 10 10 14 ; B = 13
SG.3 Let a b = ab + 10. If C = (12) 3, find the value of C.

12 = 2 + 10 = 12; C = 123 = 36 + 10 = 46
SG.4 In the coordinate plane, the area of the region bounded by the following lines is D square
L1: y 2 = 0
L2: y + 2 = 0
L3: 4x + 7y 10 = 0
L4: 4x + 7y + 20 = 0
D(-8.5, 2) y=2 C(-1, 2)

2
4x + 7y + 20 = 0 4x + 7y - 10 = 0
-5 O 5
-2
y = -2
A(-1.5, -2) B(6, -2)
B(6, 2), C(1, 2), C(8.5, 2).
The area D = |6 (1.5)||2 (2)| = 7.54 = 30
Group Event 1
G1.1 Find the value of sin2 1 + sin2 2 + + sin2 89. (Reference 2012 HG9)
sin2 1 + sin2 89 = sin2 1 + cos2 1 = 1
sin2 2 + sin2 88 = sin2 2 + cos2 2 = 1
...................................................................................
sin2 44 + sin2 46 = sin2 44 + cos2 44 = 1
= 44.5
xz z 2y x x
G1.2 Let x, y and z be positive numbers. Given that . Find the value of .
2z x 2x z y y
xz x z 2y x
It is equivalent to (1) and (2)
2z x y 2x z y
From (2), yz + 2y2 = 2x2 xz (x + y)z = 2(x2 y2)
x + y = 0 (rejected, x > 0 and y > 0) or z = 2(x y) (3)
From (1): xy + yz = 2xz x2 (2x y)z = x2 + xy (4)
Sub. (3) into (4): 2(x y)(2x y) = x2 + xy
2(2x2 3xy + y2) = x2 + xy
3x2 7xy + 2y2 = 0
x 1
(3x y)(x 2y) = 0 = or 2
y 3
When y = 3x, sub. into (3): z = 2(x 3x) = 4x (rejected, x > 0 and z > 0)
x
=2
y
a c e a c e bk dk fk
Method 2 k a = bk, c = dk, e = fk = =k
b d f bd f bd f
x a c e x z z 2 y x 2 x 2 y 2 z
k= = = = = 2 ( x + y + z > 0)
y b d f 2 z x 2 x z y x yz
xz z 2y x x
Remark: The original question is: Given that . Find the value of .
2z x 2x z y y
The question has more than one solution.
G1.3 Find the sum of all real roots x of the equation (2x 4)3 + (4x 2)3 = (4x + 2x 6)3.
Let a = 2x 4, b = 4x 2, a + b = 4x + 2x 6, the equation is equivalent to a3 + b3 = (a + b)3
(a + b)(a2 ab + b2) = (a + b)3
a2 ab + b2 = a2 + 2ab + b2 or a + b = 0
3ab = 0 or 4x + 2x 6 = 0
2x = 4 or 4x = 2 or (2x 2)(2x + 3) = 0
1
x = 2, or 1
2
Sum of all real roots = 3.5
G1.4 In Figure 1, if AB CDF is the midpoint of BE, A = 45,

DF = 3, BD = 4 and AD = n, find the value of n.
Let G be the foot of perpendicular drawn from E onto CF.
BFD = CFE (vert. opp. s)
BF = 5 (Pythagoras Theorem)
EF = 5 (Given F is the midpoint)
BDF = 90 = EGF (by construction)
BDF EGF (A.A.S.)
FG = DF = 3 (corr. sides, s)
EG = 4 (corr. sides, s)
ACD = 45 (s sum of ACD)
ACD is a right-angled isosceles triangle. A
CD = AD = n (sides opp. equal angle)
EG CD EG // AD CEG ~ CAD (equiangular) 45
CG = EG = 4 (ratio of sides, ~'s) n

n = AD = CD = 3 +3 + 4 = 10 E
D 3
4
F
G
B C
A
Method 2
45
Draw EG // CD, which intersects AB at G.
GD = BD = 4 (BF = FE and FD // EG, intercept theorem) n
GE = 2DF = 6 (mid-points theorem) G
E
AGE = 90 (corr. s, EG // CD) D 3
AGE is a right-angled isosceles triangle. 4
F
AG = GE = 6 (sides opp. eq. s)
B C
n = AG + GD = 6 + 4 = 10
Group Event 2
G2.1 If p = 2 22 23 24 29 210 + 211, find the value of p.
p = 2 + 211 (22 + 23 + 24 + + 29 + 210) = 2 + 211

2 2 29 1
= 2 + 211 211 + 22 = 6
2 1
G2.2 Given that x, y, z are three distinct real numbers.
1 1 1
If x y z and m = x2y2z2, find the value of m.
y z x
1 1 1
Let x = k (1), y = k (2), z = k (3)
y z x
1 ky 1 1 y
From (1), x = k = =
y y x ky 1
Sub. into (3): z +

y
=kz=
k 2 1y k
ky 1 ky 1
ky 1
k 1y k = k (k 1)y ky + ky 1 = k(k 1)y k
2 2 2 2
Sub. into (2): y + 2
(k2 1)y2 k(k2 1)y + (k2 1) = 0

k2 1 = 0 or y2 ky + 1 = 0
k k2 4
If k 1 0, then y ky + 1 = 0 y =
2 2
2
The system is symmetric for x, y, z
k k2 4
x or z = , this contradict to the fact that x, y, z are distinct.
2
y2 ky + 1 0
k2 = 1 k = 1 or 1
1
When k = 1, x = k = 1 =
1 y 1
;z=

k 2 1 y k
=
1
y y y ky 1 y 1
y 1 1
xyz = y = 1
y y 1
When k = 1, x = k
1 1
= 1 =
y 1
;z=
k 2 1y k = 1
y y y ky 1 y 1
y 1 1
xyz = y =1
y y 1
m = x2y2z2 = 1
1 1 1 1 yz
Method 2 x y x y x y (1)
y z z y yz
1 1 1 1 zx
y z yz yz (2)
z x x z xz
1 1 1 1 x y
x z zx zx (3)
y x y x xy
yz zx x y
(1)(2)(3): x y y z z x
1
1 2 2 2 m = x2y2z2 = 1
yz xz xy x y z
G2.3 Given that x is a positive real number and x3 = 3 . If k is a positive integer and k < x < k + 1,
x 18

The equation is equivalent to 318x x = 0. Let f (x) = 318x x.
Clearly f (x) is a continuous function.
f (15) = 33 15 = 12 > 0, f (16) = 32 16 = 7 < 0
By intermediate value theorem (or Bolzanos theorem), we can find a real root 15 < x < 16.
k = 15
G2.4 Figure 1 shows the sequence of figures that are made of squares of white and black. Find the
number of white squares in the 95th figure.
1st figure 2nd figure 3rd figure

1st figure = 8 white squares; 2nd figure = 13 squares; 3rd figure = 18 squares
T(1) = 8, T(2) = 8 + 5, T(3) = 8 + 52, , T(95) = 8 + 5(95 1) = 478
Group Event 3
G3.1 Find the smallest prime factor of 101303 + 301101. (Reference: 1999 FIS.1)
Both 101303 and 301101 are odd integers
101303 + 301101 is even
The smallest prime factor is 2.
1
G3.2 Let n be the integral part of 1 . Find the value of n.
1980 1981 2009
1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
(30 terms)
2009 2009 1980 1981 2009 1980 1980
30 1 1 1 30

2009 1980 1981 2009 1980
1980 1 2009 2010
66 1 67
1980 1981 2009
1 1
30 30 30
n = integral part = 66
G3.3 In Figure 1, A = 60, B = D = 90. BC = 2, CD = 3 and
AB = x, find the value of x.
AC2 = x2 + 4 (Pythagoras Theorem on ABC)
AD = AC 3 (Pythagoras Theorem on ACD)
2 2 2
= x2 5
BD2 = x2 + (x2 5) 2x x 2 5 cos 60 (cosine rule on ABD)
BD2 = 22 + 32 223 cos 120 (cosine rule on BCD)
2x2 5 x x 2 5 = 13 + 6
x x 2 5 = 2x2 24
x2(x2 5) = 4x4 96x2 + 576
3x4 91x2 + 576 = 0
(x2 9)(3x2 64) = 0
8 Method 2
x = 3 or
3 BD2 = 22 + 32 223 cos 120
(cosine rule on BCD)
When x = 3, AD = x 2 5 = 2
BD = 19
2 3 1
tan BAC = , tan CAD = = ABC + ADC = 180
3 2 tan BAC A, B, C, D are concyclic
BAC + CAD = 90 (opp. s supp.)
BAD = 60 90 reject x = 3
8 7 AC = x 2 4 = diameter = 2R
When x = , AD = x 2 5 = (converse, in semi-circle, R = radius)
3 3
BD
3 3 3 2 R (Sine rule on ABD)
tan BAC = , tan CAD = sin 60
4 7 19
3
3 3
19 3 x2 4
tan (BAC + CAD) = 4 3 73 3 = = 3 = tan 60 2 3
1 4 7 19
76 = 3x2 + 12
8 8 8 8
x= = 3 x= = 3
3 3 3 3
G3.4 Given that the function f satisfies f (2 + x) = f (2 x) for every real number x and that f (x) = 0
has exactly four distinct real roots. Find the sum of these four distinct real roots.
Let two of these distinct roots be 2 + , 2 + , where and , 0.
f (2 + x) = f (2 x) f (2 + ) = f (2 ) = 0; f (2 + ) = f (2 ) = 0
If = 0, then 0 there are only three real roots 2, 2 + , 2 contradiction, rejected.
0 and 0 The four roots are 2 + , 2 , 2 + , 2 .
Sum of roots = 2 + + 2 + 2 + + 2 = 8
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let a be an integer and a 1. Given that the equation (a 1)x2 mx + a = 0 has two roots
which are positive integers. Find the value of m.
Let the 2 roots be , .
a
=
a 1
a
, are positive integers is a positive integer is a positive integer
a 1
However, a and (a 1) are relatively prime.
a1=1a=2
Put a = 2 into the original equation: x2 mx + 2 = 0
= 2 = 2, = 1 or = 1, = 2
m=+=3
Given that the equation (a 1)x2 mx + a = 0 has two roots which are positive integers. Find
the value of m.
If a = 1, then it is not a quadratic equation, it cannot have 2 positive integral roots.
a
If a is any real number 1, the equality = could not implies a = 2
a 1
e.g. a = 1.5 = 3 0.5x2 mx + 1.5 = 0 x2 2mx + 3 = 0 m = 2 (Not unique)
G4.2 Given that x is a real number and y = x 2 2 x 2 x 2 10 x 34 . Find the minimum value
of y. Reference 2015 HI9
Consider the following problem:
Let P(1, 1) and Q(5, 3) be two points. R(x, 0) is a variable Q(5, 3)
point on x-axis.

2 2
P(1, 1)
If we reflect P(1, 1) along x-axis to P1(1, 1), M(1, 0) is
the foot of perpendicular,
then PMR P1MR (S.A.S.)
y = PR + RQ = P1R + RQ P1Q (triangle inequality) O M (1, 0) R(x, 0) 5
y 5 1 3 1 = 4 2 P1(1, -1)
2 2
G4.3 Given that A, B, C are positive integers with their greatest common divisor equal to 1.
If A, B, C satisfy A log500 5 + B log500 2 = C, find the value of A + B + C.
log500 5A + log500 2B = log500 500C log500 5A2B = log500 500C 5A2B = 53C22C
A = 3C, B = 2C (unique factorization theorem)
A, B, C are relatively prime.
C = 1, A = 3, B = 2
A+B+C=6
G4.4 In figure 1, BEC is a semicircle and F is a point on the
diameter BC. Given that BF : FC = 3 : 1, AB = 8 and AE = 4.
Find the length of EC.
Join BE. It is easy to show that BEF ~ ECF (equiangular)
Let BF = 3k, CF = k
EF : 3k = k : EF (corr. sides, ~'s)
EF = 3 k
BE2 = BF2 + EF2 = 9k2 + 3k2 (Pythagoras Theorem on BEF) BE = 12 k
BEC = 90 ( in semi-circle)
2 2
BE + AE = AB 2
(Pythagoras Theorem on ABE)
12k + 16 = 64 k = 2
2
EC2 = CF2 + EF2 = 22 + 322 (Pythagoras Theorem on CEF)

EC = 4
Method 2
BEC = 90 ( in semi-circle) A
BEA = 90 (adj. s on st. line)
AE 4 1 4
cos BAE =
AB 8 2 8
E
BAE = 60
Let BF = 3k, CF = k, ECB = .
CEF = 90 (s sum of CEF)
CBE = 90 (s sum of BCE) B 3k F k C
BEF = (s sum of BEF)
CEF ~ EBF (equiangular)
CF EF
(corr. sides, ~s)
EF BF
EF2 = k3k EF = 3 k
EF 3k
tan ECF = 3
CF k
ECF = 60
ABE CBE (A.A.S.)
CE = AE = 4 (corr. sides, s)
Group Spare
GS.1 Given that n is a positive integer. If n2 + 5n + 13 is a perfect square, find the value of n.
n2 + 5n + 13 = n2 + 5n + 2.52 2.52 + 13 = (n + 2.5)2 + 6.75 = m2, where m is an integer
m2 (n + 2.5)2 = 6.75 (m + n + 2.5)(m n 2.5) = 6.75 (2m + 2n + 5)(2m 2n 5) =27
2m 2n 5 27 2 m 2 n 5 9
or
2m 2n 5 1 2 m 2n 5 3
n = 4 or n = 1 (rejected, n > 0)
k k 1
2
GS.2 Given that 13 + 23 + + k3 = . Find the value of 11 + 12 + + 24 .

3 3 3
2
11 + 12 + + 24 = 1 + 2 + + 243 (13 + 23 + + 103)
3 3 3 3 3
1 1 1 1
= 24 2 25 2 10 2 112 = 6 2 100 2 10 2 121
4 4 4 4
= 360000 12100 = 347900 = 86975
1 1
4 4
GS.3 If P is an arbitrary point in the interior of the equilateral triangle ABC, find the probability that
the area of ABP is greater than each of the areas of ACP and BCP.
C C
H1 U
H1
E F E F
z1
z1 H
L1 Q1 L1
sy
1 X
P1 y1 R1 s
G G t P
N1 t 1
Y M1
x1
x1
K1 T Z K1
A D B A D B
D, E, F be the mid-points of AB, AC and BC respectively.
The medians CD, BE and AF are concurrent at the centroid G.
It is easy to see that CEG, CFG, AEG, ADG, BDG, BFG are congruent triangles
having the same areas.
P is any point inside the triangle P lies on or inside one of these six congruent triangles.
As shown in the diagram, P1 lies inside BFG. Let the feet of perpendiculars from P1 to AB,
BC, CA be K1, L1, H1 with lengths x1, y1 and z1 respectively.
P1H1 and AF meet at R1, P1K1 intersects BE at M1, and AF at Q1, L1P1 produced meet BE at N1
By the properties on parallel lines, we can easily prove that P1M1N1 and P1Q1R1 are
equilateral triangles. Let P1M1 = P1N1 = N1M1 = t, P1Q1 = P1R1 = Q1R1 = s
Let H and Y be the midpoints of Q1R1 and N1M1 respectively. R1H = 0.5s, YM1 = 0.5t
Let U and T be the feet of perpendiculars from H to AC and AB respectively.
Let X and Z be the feet of perpendiculars from Y to BC and AB respectively.
UH = z1 s + 0.5s cos 60 = z1 0.75s, YZ = x1 t + 0.5t cos 60 = x1 0.75t
HT = x1 + 0.75s, YX = y1 + 0.75t
It is easy to show that AHU AHT, BYX BYZ (A.A.S.)
UH = HT and YZ = YX (corr. sides, s) z1 0.75s = x1 + 0.75s, x1 0.75t = y1 + 0.75t
z1 = x1 + 1.5s, x1 = y1 + 1.5t z1 > x1 > y1
1 1 1
ACz1 > ABx1 > BCy1 area of ACP1 > area of ABP1 > area of BCP1
2 2 2
If P2 lies inside BDG, using a similar method, we can easily prove that
area of ACP2 > area of BCP2 > area of ABP2.
If P3 lies inside ADG, then area of BCP3 > area of ACP3 > area of ABP3.
If P4 lies inside AEG, then C
area of BCP4 > area of ABP4 > area of ACP4.
If P5 lies inside CEG, then
area of ABP5 > area of BCP5 > area of ACP5.
If P6 lies inside CFG, then
area of ABP6 > area of ACP6 > area of BCP6 E
H2
F
In order that the area of ABP is greater than each of the
areas of ACP and BCP, P must lie inside CEG or z2
G
L2
CFG P2
y2
Required probability x2
Area of CEG area of CFG 2 1 A D K2 B
= = =
Area of ABC 6 3
Method 2 Suppose P lies inside BDG. C
Produce AP, BP, CP to intersect BC, CA, AB at L, M, N
respectively.
Let SXYZ denotes the area of XYZ.
S APB S ABM S BPM
=
S APC S ACM S CPM
E F
2 BM AM sin AMB 2 BM PM sin AMB
1 1
=1
2 CM AM sin AMC 2 CM PM sin AMC
1
N
1
BM sin AMB AM PM BM sin AMB G
= 12 =
2 CM sin AMC AM PM CM sin AMC M
BM P
= ( sin AMB = sin (180AMC) = sin AMC)
MC L
A D B
S APB S ABN S APN
=
S BPC S BCN S CPN
1
BN AN sin ANB 12 AN PN sin ANB
= 12
2 BN NC sin BNC 2 NC PN sin BNC
1
1
AN sin ANB BN PN AN sin ANB
= 12 =
2 NC sin BNC BN PN NC sin BNC
AN
= ( sin ANB = sin(180 BNC) = sin BNC)
NC
In order that the area of ABP is greater than each of the areas of ACP and BCP,
BM > MC and AN > NC
P must lie inside CEG or CFG
S S CFG 2 1
Required probability = CEG = =
S ABC 6 3
P ABC ABP ACP BCP

If P is an arbitrary point in the interior of the equilateral triangle ABC, find the probability that
the area of ABP is greater than both of the areas of ACP and BCP.
There is a slight difference between the Chinese version and the English version.
GS.4 How many positive integers m are there for which the straight line passing through points
A(m, 0) and B(0, 2) and also passes through the point P(7, k), where k is a positive integer?
Let the slope of the variable straight line be a. Then its equation is: y = ax + 2
am 2 0 1
It passes through A(m, 0) and P(7, k):
7a 2 k 2
7(1) + m(2): 14 + 2m = km m(k 2) = 14
m = 1, k = 16 or m = 2, k = 9 or m = 7, k = 4 or m = 14, k = 3
Number of positive integral values of m is 4.
2300 113
1 2 2 3 60 4 4 5 (= 28.25) Spare
08-09 9801 4
Individual 2007 3
6 7 9 3 8 7 9 32 10 200
2008 2
1 105 2 2 2 3 9 4 7 5 16 Spare
08-09
Group 2 21 2 8
6 7 4 8 9 10 10 (= 1.6) 16
3 5 5
Individual Events

I1 Let x = 0. 2 3+ 0.00 2 3+ 0.0000 2 3+ 0.000000 2 3+ L , find the value of x .

Reference: 2000 HI1 Let x = 0.1 7+ 0.0 1 7+ 0.00 1 7+ ...
23 23 23
0. 2 3 = ; 0.00 2 3 = ; 0.0000 2 3 = ;
99 9900 990000
23 23 23 23 1 1 23 1 23 100 2300
x= + + + L = 1 + + + L = = =
99 9900 990000 99 100 10000 99 1 100 99 99 9801
1
I2 In Figure 1, a regular hexagon and a rectangle are given. The

vertices of the rectangle are the midpoints of four sides of the
hexagon. If the ratio of the area of the rectangle to the area of the
hexagon is 1 : q, find the value of q.
Let one side of the hexagon be 2a, the height of the rectangle be
x, the length be y.
x = 2a cos 30 = 3a , y = 2a cos 60 + 2a = 3a
Ratio of area = 3a 3a : 6 (2a ) sin 60 o = 3 3 : 6 3 = 1 : 2
1 2
2
q=2
The following method is provided by Mr. Jimmy Pang from Sai E D
Kung Sung Tsun Catholic School (Secondary).
P
Let the hexagon be ABCDEF, the rectangle be PQRS as shown. S
Fold FPQ along PQ to F'PQ. Fold CSR along SR to C'SR. F
C
Fold EDSP along PS to F'C'SP. Fold ABRQ along QR to F' C'
F'C'RQ. Then the folded figure covers the rectangle completely. Q R
Ratio of area = 1 : 2; q = 2
A B
I3 Let 16 sin4 = 5 + 16 cos2 and 0 90, find the value of .

16 sin4 = 5 + 16 (1 sin2 )
16 sin4 + 16 sin2 21 = 0
(4 sin2 3)(4 sin2 + 7) = 0
3 7
sin2 = or (rejected)
4 4
3 3
sin = or (rejected)
2 2
= 60
I4 Let m be the number of positive factors of gcd(2008, 4518), where gcd(2008, 4518) is the
greatest common divisor of 2008 and 4518. Find the value of m.
2008 = 8251; 4518 = 29251
gcd = 2251 = 502
The positive factors are 1, 2, 251, 502; m = 4
I5 Given that x2 + (y 3)2 = 7, where x and y are real numbers. If the maximum value of 5y + x2
is k, find the value of k.
x2 = 7 (y 3)2; sub. into 5y + x2 = 5y + 7 (y 3)2
= 5y + 7 y2 + 6y 9
= y2 + 11y 2 = (y2 11y + 5.52 5.52) 2
= (y 5.5)2 + 30.25 2 = = (y 5.5)2 + 28.25
Maximum value = k = 28.25
Method 2 z = 5y + x2 = y2 + 11y 2
y2 11y + (z + 2) = 0
Discriminant 0 for all real value of y.
(11)2 4(1)(z + 2) 0 121 4z 8 0
113 113
z ;k=
4 4
1
I6 Let f1(x) = and fn(x) = f1(fn1(x)), where n = 2, 3, 4, . Find the value of f2009(2008).
1 x
1 1 1 x x 1
f2(x) = f1(f1(x)) = f1 = = =
1 x 1 1 x 1 x 1
1
x
x 1 1
f3(x) = f1(f2(x)) = f1 = = x , f3n(x) = x for all positive integer n.
x 1 (1 1x )
2008 1 2007
f2009(2008) = f2(f2007(2008)) = f2(f3(669)(2008)) = f2(2008) = =
2008 2008
I7 In Figure 2, ABCDEF is a regular hexagon centred at the point
P. PST is an equilateral triangle. It is given that AB = 6 cm,
QD = 2 cm and PT = 12 cm. If the area of the common part of
the hexagon and triangle is c cm2, find the value of c.
Join PD and CP. CDP is an equilateral triangle, side = 6 cm
QPR + QDR = 60 + 120 = 180
DQPR is a cyclic quadrilateral (opp. sides supp.)
PQD = PRC (ext. , cyclic quad.)
DPQ = 60 DPR = CPR
CP = DP sides of an equilateral triangle
CPR DPQ (AAS)
Shaded area = area of PDQ + area of PDR
= area of CPR + area of PDR = area of CPD
1
= 6 2 sin 60o = 9 3 cm2; c = 9 3
2
Reference: 2006 HI9: Given that the units digit of 7 2006 is C, .....
71 = 7, 72 9 (mod 10), 73 3 (mod 10), 74 1 (mode 10)
72009 = (74)5027 7 mod 10
I9 Given that a and b are integers. Let a 7b = 2 and log2b a = 2, find the value of ab.
(2b)2 = a 4b2 = 7b + 2 4b2 7b 2 = 0 (b 2)(4b + 1) = 0
1
b = 2 or (rejected)
4
a = 7b + 2 = 16; ab = 32
I10 In Figure 3, ABCD is a rectangle. Points E and F lie on CD and AD

respectively, such that AF = 8 cm and EC = 5 cm. Given that the area
of the shaded region is 80 cm2. Let the area of the rectangle ABCD be
g cm2, find the value of g.
Let DF = x cm, DE = y cm
g = xy + (8 + x ) 5 + ( y + 5) 8 + 80
1 1 1
2 2 2
=
1
(xy + 5 x + 8 y + 40 + 200)
2
=
1
[(x + 8)( y + 5) + 200] = 1 g + 100
2 2
g = 200
1
IS Given that a is a negative real number. If = 2 , find the value of a.
a + a 1+ 2
2 2 3
1 = 2a + 1 2a = 2 3a 2a2 = 2 a =
a+2 a+2 2
Group Events
1 1 1 272
G1 If a is a positive integer and + +L+ = , find the value of a.
a(a + 1) (a + 1)(a + 2 ) 2008 2009 30135
1 1 1 1 1 1 272
+ +L+ =
a a + 1 a + 1 a + 2 2008 2009 30135
1 1 272 1 272 1 272 + 15 287 1
= = + = = = ; a = 105
a 2009 30135 a 2009 15 2009 2009 15 3 5 7 41 15 7
2
G2 Let x = 1+ 2 , find the value of x5 2x4 + 3x3 4x2 10x 6.

Reference: 1993 HI9, 2000 HG1, 2001 FG2.1, 2007 HG3
Method 1
x 1 = 2 , (x 1)2 = 2 x2 2x 1 = 0
By division, x5 2x4 + 3x3 4x2 10x 6 = (x2 2x 1)(x3 + 4x + 4) + 2x 2 = 2x 2
( )
= 2 1+ 2 2 = 2 2
Method 2 Divide x5 2x4 + 3x3 4x2 10x 6 by (x 1) successively:

1 1 2 3 4 10 6
1 1 2 2 12 Let y = x 1, the expression in terms of y becomes
1 1 1 2 2 12 18 y5 + 3y4 + 5y3 + 3y2 12y 18
1 1
1
0
0
2
2
0 12
0 5 4
( ) ( ) ( )
3
= 2 + 3 2 + 5 2 + 3 2 12 2 18
2
1 1 3 = 4 2 + 12 + 10 2 + 6 12 2 18
1 1 1 3 3 =2 2
1 2
1 1 2 5
1
1 3
2 1
G3 Given that p and q are integers. If + = 1 , find the maximum value of pq.
p q
1 1 1
Reference 2008 HI3 + = . If 35 < y0 < 50 and x0 + y0 = z0
x y 15
2q + p = pq pq p (2q 2) = 2 (p 2)(q 1) = 2
(p 2, q 1) = (1, 2), (2, 1), (1, 2), (2, 1)
(p, q) = (3, 3), (4, 2), (1, 1), (0, 0) maximum pq = 33 = 9
G4 Given that 0 x 180. If the equation cos 7x = cos 5x has r distinct roots, find the value of r.
7x = 5x + 360n or 7x = 360 5x + 360n
x = 180n or x = 30(n + 1)
n = 0, x = 0 or 30
n = 1, x = 180 or 60
n=2 x = 90
n=3 x = 120
n=4 x = 150
r=7
G5 Let x, y and z be positive integers and satisfy z 28 = x y . Find the value of x + y + z.
( )
2
z 28 = x y z 2 7 = x + y 2 xy x + y = z; xy = 7
x = 7, y = 1; z = 1 + 7 = 8; x + y + z = 16
G6 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square and AM = NB = DE = FC = 1 cm 1 cm E 1 cm H 1 cm F 1 cm
D
and MN = 2 cm. Let the area of quadrilateral PQRS be c cm2, C
DF = 3 cm, AD = CD = 4 cm, AF = 32 + 4 2 cm = 5 cm = DN R
ADF NFD (SAS) AFD = NDF (corr. s 's) 4 cm
S G Q
DS = FS (sides opp. eq. s)
But DSF NSA (ASA) AS = SF = 12 AF = 52 cm P
Let H be the mid point of EF. EH = HF = 1 cm
Suppose SQ intersects PR at G. A M N B
It is easy to show that ADF ~ RHF ~ RGS
FR FH FR 1 5
= = FR = cm (ratio of sides, ~'s)
AF AD 5 cm 3 3
5 5 5
SR = SF RF = cm cm = cm
2 3 6
2
Area RGS SR
2
Area RGS 5
= 6
1
= 5
Area RSG = cm2
Area ADF AF 1 3 4cm 2 6
2
Area of PQRS = 4 area of RSG = 23 cm2, c = 23
Method 2 Let RFH = = PCH = CMB (corr. s and alt. s, //-lines)
HR HP 4 4 8
tan = = = HR = cm; HP = cm
1 cm 2 cm 3 3 3
8 4 4
PR = HP HR = cm = cm
3 3 3
Further, FCQS is a //-gram. SQ = FC = 1 cm (opp. sides, //-gram)
Area of PQRS = 12 PR SQ = 12 43 1 cm2; c = 23
G7 Given that x is a real number and satisfies 22x+8 + 1 = 322x. Find the value of x.
Let y = 2x, y2 = 22x, the equation becomes: 28y2 + 1 = 32y
256y2 32y + 1 = 0 (16y 1)2 = 0 y = 161 2x = 24; x = 4
G8 In Figure 2, ABC is a right angle, AC = BC = 14 cm and
CE = CF = 6 cm. If CD = d cm, find the value of d.
ACD = BCD = 45
We find the area of ACBD in two different ways.
SACBD = SACD + SBCD = SACF + SBCE SCDE SCDF
2 12 14d sin 45o = 2 12 6 14 2 12 6d sin 45o
20d 1
2
= 84 d = 215 2
Method 2 Set up a coordinate system with BC as x-axis, CA as y-axis, and C as the origin.
x y
Equation of AF in intercept form: + = 1 (1)
6 14
Equation of CD is y = x (2)
x y 21 21 21 2
Sub. (2) into (1): + = 1 x = d = sin 45 =
6 14 5 5 5
G9 If there are 6 different values of real number x that satisfies ||x2 6x 16| 10| = f, find the
value of f. (Reference: 2002 FG4.3, 2005 FG4.2, 2012 FG4.2)
Remark: The original solution is wrong. Thanks for Mr. Ng Ka Loks (from EDB) comment.
Absolute values must be non-negative, f 0 (*)
|x2 6x 16| 10 = f
|x2 6x 16| = 10 + f or |x2 6x 16| = 10 f (**)
x2 6x 16 = 10 + f, x2 6x 16 = 10 f, x2 6x 16 = 10 + f, x2 6x 16 = 10 f
x2 6x 26f = 0(1), x2 6x 26+f = 0(2), x2 6x 6f = 0(3), x2 6x 6+f = 0(4)
The respective discriminants are: 1 = 4(35 + f), 2 = 4(35 f), 3 = 4(15 + f), 4 = 4(15 f)
Consider the different values of f ( 0) by table:
f = 0 0 < f < 15 f = 15 15 < f <35 f = 35 35 < f
1 + + + + + +
2 + + + + 0
3 + + + + + +
4 + + 0
Consider the following cases: (I) the equation has 6 real roots and 2 complex roots
From the table, the range of possible values of f is 15 < f < 35.
Sub. 15 < f < 35 into (**):|x2 6x 16| = 10 + f or |x2 6x 16| = 10 f (no solution, RHS<0)
x2 6x 16 = 10 + f or x2 6x 16 = 10 f
x2 6x 26 f = 0(1) or x2 6x 6 + f = 0(4)
Q For 15 < f < 35, 1 > 0, 4 < 0
The equation has only 2 real roots,contradicting to our assumption that there are 6 real roots
(II) The equation has 8 real roots. 6 of these roots are distinct and 2 other roots are the same as
the first 6 roots.
If (1) (2), then 26 f = 26 + f f = 0, if (3) (4), then 6 f = 6 + f f = 0
If (1) (3), then 26 f = 6 f no solution, if (2) (4), then 26 +f = 6 + f no solution
If (1) (4), then 26 f = 6 + f f = 10 (contradict with (*), rejected)
If (2) (3), then 26 +f = 6 f f = 10
If f = 0 the equations are x2 6x 26 = 0 and x2 6x 6 = 0, which have only 4 roots,rejected
If f = 10, the equations are x2 6x 36 = 0, x2 6x 16 = 0 and x2 6x 4 = 0, which have 6
distinct real roots, accepted.
Method 2
The following method is provided by Mr. Jimmy Pang from Sai Kung Sung Tsun Catholic School
(Secondary).
First sketch the graph y = ||x2 6x 16| 10|.
From the graph, draw different horizontal lines.
The line y = 10 cuts y = ||x2 6x 16| 10| at 6 different points.
f = 10
G10 In Figure 3, ABC is a triangle, E is the midpoint of BC, F is a

point on AE where AE = 3AF. The extension segment of BF
meets AC at D. Given that the area of ABC is 48 cm2. Let
the area of AFD be g cm2, find the value of g.
From E, draw a line EG // BD which cuts AC at G.
AE = 3AF AF : FE = 1 : 2; let AE = k, FE = 2k
E is the midpoint of BC BE = EC = t A
SABE = SACE = 12 48 cm2 = 24 cm2 (same base, same height) k D

F
AD : DG = AF : FE = 1 : 2 (theorem of equal ratio) G
2k
DG : GC = BE : EC = 1 : 1 (theorem of equal ratio)
AD : DG : GC = 1 : 2 : 2
B t E t C
SAEG : SCEG = 3 : 2 (same height, ratio of base = 3 : 2)
3 72
SAEG = 24 cm2 = cm2
2+3 5
1 1 72 8 8
ADF ~ AGE SADF = SAEG = cm2 = cm2; g =
9 9 5 5 5
GS Let R be the remainder of 5882009 divided by 97. Find the value of R.

Reference: 2008 FIS.4 the remainder of 5882008 divided by 97
5882009 = (976 +6)2009
Note that 253 = 96 = 97 1 1 (mod 97); 235 = 486 = 975 + 1 1 (mod 97);
66 = (253)(235) 1 (mod 97)
62009 = (66)33465 (1)33424(235) 16 (mod 97); d = 16
HKMO 2009 Geometrical Construction Sample Paper solution

1.
First, we find the locus of a point D which is equidistance to a given angle BAC. (Figure 1)
A A
E
1
D D
2
1
B F C
B C
Figure 1 Figure 2
(1) From D, let E and F be the feet of perpendiculars onto AB and BC respectively. (Fig. 2)
(2) Join BD.
BD = BD (common side)
BED = BFD = 90 (By construction)
DE = DF (given that D is equidistance to AB and BC)
BDE BDF (RHS)
DBE = DBF (corr. s 's)
D lies on the angle bisector of ABC.
In ABC, if P is equidistance to ABC, then P must lie on the intersection of the
three angle bisectors. (i.e. the incentre of ABC.)
Q The three angle bisectors must concurrent at one point
We need to find the intersection of any two angle bisectors.
The construction is as follows:
(1) Draw the bisector of ABC. A
(2) Draw the bisector of ACB.
P is the intersection of the two angle T 3
bisectors. 4 4 S
(3) Join AP. 1 2
P
(4) Let R, S, T be the feet of perpendiculars 4
from P onto BC, AC and AB respectively.

B R C
BPR BPT (A.A.S.)
CPR CPS (A.A.S.)
A
PT = PR = PS (Corr. sides, 's)
APT APS (R.H.S.)
PAT = PAS (Corr. s, 's)
AP is the angle bisector of BAC. 5 P
point.
(5) Using P as centre, PR as radius to draw a B R C
circle.
Note that the 3 ex-centres are equidistance from

AB, BC, CA. I shall draw one ex-centre as A
demonstration.
(1) Extend AB and AC to S and T respectively.
(2) Draw the exterior angle bisectors of ABC
and ACB respectively. The two exterior
4
angle bisectors intersect at I.
(3) Let P, Q, R be the feet of perpendiculars
drawn from I onto to BC, AC and AB B P
C
respectively.
3
(4) Join AI. 2 2
R
(5) IBP IBR (AAS); ICP ICQ (AAS) 3 Q
IP = IQ = IR (corr. sides, 's) 1
3
1
I is equidistance from AB, BC and AC. I
IAR IAQ (R.H.S.) S T
IAR = IAQ (corr. sides, 's)
IA is the interior angle bisector of BAC A
Two exterior angle bisectors and one
interior angle bisector of a triangle are
concurrent.
B P
C
Use I as centre, IP as radius to draw a circle. This
circle touches triangle ABC externally. It is called
R
the escribed circle or ex-circle. Q
I
5
2. L PQ L L T PT QT
(Figure 1)
P
Q
P
Q 1 3 1
L S
A B T
4
L 2
2 P1
Figure 1
Figure 2
APB AP1B (S.S.S.)
PBS P1BS (S.A.S.)
PST P1ST (S.A.S.)
PT + QT = P1T + QT
3. P(P )
C
1
D
P 2
P
A 2 O
1
Figure 2
Figure 1 B
First, we locate the centre of the circle. (Figure 2)
(1) Let AB and CD be two non-parallel chords.
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisectors of AB and CD respectively which intersect at O.
(3) Join OP.
C N 5
(4) Draw the perpendicular bisector of OP, 6
K is the mid-point of OP. 1
(5) Using K as centre, KP as radius to draw D 2
6
a circle, which intersects the given circle 4
at M and N. A O 3 P
1
2 K
(6) Join OM, ON, MP, NP. 6
ONP = 90 = OMP ( in semi-circle)

PM, PN are the required tangents. 6
(converse, tangent radius) B M Figure 3

Method 2
(1) From P, draw a line segment cutting the T
circle at R and Q. (Q lies between P and R 6
R.)
4
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of PR, M 3
which intersects PR at O. 2
7
(3) Use O as centre, OP = OR as radius to Q 5
8
draw a semi-circle PTR. O
(4) From Q (the point between PR), draw a 1
line QT perpendicular to PR, cutting the
8
semi-circle at T.
(5) Join PT. N P
(6) Join TR. Figure 4
(7) Use P as centre, PT as radius to draw an
arc, cutting the given circle at M and N.
(8) Join PM, PN.
PTR = 90 ( in semi-circle)
PQT ~ PTR (equiangular)
PQ PT
PT PR
PQPR = PT2
By (7), PQPR = PT2 = PM2 = PN2
PM and PN are the tangents from external point. (converse, intersecting chords theorem)
Geometrical construction
1. In Figure 1, A, B and C are three fixed non-collinear
points. Construct a circle passing through the given
three points.
The 3 perpendicular bisectors of AB, BC and AC are
concurrent at the circumcentre O. It is sufficient to
locate the circumcentre by any two perpendicular
bisectors.
(1) Join AB, AC and BC.
(2) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AB.
M is the mid-point of AB.
(3) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC.
N is the mid-point of AC.
The two perpendicular bisectors intersect at O.
(4) Use O as centre, OA as radius, draw a circle. Figure 1
AOM BOM (S.A.S.)
AON CON (S.A.S.) A
OB = OA = OC (corr. sides, 's) 4
The circle pass through A, B and C. 1 1
Let L be the mid-point of BC. Join OL. P
BOL COL (S.S.S.) 2 M
R
BLO = CLO (corr. s, 's) O N 3
BLO + CLO = 180 (adj. s on st. line)

S Q
BLO = CLO = 90
B
OL is the perpendicular bisector of BC.
The 3 perpendicular bisectors of AB, BC and L 1
AC are concurrent at a point O. C
2. In Figure 2, AB is the base of a triangle ABC, and the

length of BD is the sum of the lengths of BC and CA.
Given that ABC = 60, construct the triangle ABC. Figure 2
(1) Use A as centre, AB as radius to draw an arc, use B
as centre, BA as radius to draw another arc. The D
two arcs intersect at P. ABP is an equilateral 2
triangle. ABP = 60 P
3
(2) With B as centre, BD as radius, draw an arc,
4
cutting BP produced at D. N C
(3) Join AD.
5
(4) Draw the perpendicular bisector of AD which cuts
BD at C. N is the mid point of AD. 601
(5) Join AC. A B
ANC DNC (S.A.S.)
AC = DC (corr. sides, 's) B D
AC + CB = BC + CD
3. In Figure 3, ABC is an acute angle triangle. P1 is a point

on AC. Construct a triangle P1XY such that X is a point on
AB, Y is a point on BC and the perimeter of P1XY is the
least.
(1) Use A as centre, AC as radius to draw an arc.
(2) Use B as centre, BC as radius to draw another arc.
These two arcs intersect at C.
ABC ABC (S.S.S.)
BAC = BAC (corr. s, s)
(3) Use C as centre, CA as radius to draw an arc
(4) Use B as centre, BA as radius to draw another arc.
These two arcs intersect at A.
ABC ABC (S.S.S.)
ACB = ACB (corr. s, s)
(5) Use A as centre, AP1 as radius to draw 1 5
C' P A
an arc, which cuts AC at P.
2
AX = AX (common side)
AP = AP1 (radii) 8
P1
APX AP1X (S.A.S.) X
PX = P1X (corr. sides, s) 8
(6) Use C as centre, CP1 as radius to draw

B Y C
an arc, which cuts CA at P2. 7
CY = CY (common side)
CP1 = CP2 (radii)
P2 6
CP1Y CP2Y (S.A.S.)
P1Y = P2Y (corr. sides, s) 4 3
A'
(7) Join PP2, which cuts AB at X and BC at Y.

(8) Join P1X, YP2.
The position of P and P2 are fixed irrespective the size and the shape of P1XY.
Perimeter of P1XY = PX + XY + YP2
PX + XY + YP2 is the minimum when P, X, Y, P2 are collinear.
P1XY is the required triangle.
Individual Events
SI A 15 I1 R 30 I2 a 16 I3 m 3 I4 m 3
3 9
B 3 S 120 b n 9 n
2 4
C 4 T 11 c 36 p 2 p 9
D 8 U 72 d 42 q 1141 q 8
Group Events
17 3
SG z 540 G1 q 3 G2 A G3 A 5 G4 P
13 8
1
R 6 k 1 B 13 R 4018 R
2
4 5
k 5 w 25 C 46 Q S 320
5
3
xyz 1 p D 30 T 52 3 Q 1
2

SI.1 Let A = 15tan 44tan45tan46, find the value of A.
Similar question 2012 G2.1
1
A = 15 tan 44 o 1 = 15
tan 44 o
n 2008 's
644 4 7444 8
SI.2 Let n be a positive integer and 20082008L 200815 is divisible by A. If the least possible
value of n is B, find the value of B.
n 2008 's
644 4 7444 8
The necessary condition is: 20082008L 2008 must be divisible by 3.
SI.3 Given that there are C integers that satisfy the equation |x 2| + |x + 1| = B, find the value of C
|x 2| + |x + 1| = 3
If x < 1, 2 x x 1 = 3 x = 1 (rejected)
If 2 < x, x 2 + x + 1 = 3 x = 2 (reject)
1 x 2 only
Q x is an integer, x = 1, 0, 1, 2; C = 4
SI.4 In the coordinate plane, the distance from the point (C, 0) to the straight line y = x is D,
Ax0 + By0 + C
A2 + B 2
40+0 4
The distance from (4, 0) to x y = 0 is D= = =2 2 = 8;D=8
1 + ( 1)
2
2 2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let a, b, c and d be the distinct roots of the equation x4 15x2 + 56 = 0.

x4 15x2 + 56 = 0 (x2 7)(x2 8) = 0
a = 7 , b = 7 , c = 8 , d = 8
R = a2 + b2 + c2 + d2 = 7 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 30
I1.2 In Figure 1, AD and BE are straight lines with AB = AC and

AB // ED. If ABC = R and ADE = S, find the value of S.
S = 120
log(1 + F )
I1.3 Let F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2S and T = , find the value of T.
log 2
2121 1
F = 1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + + 2120 = = 2121 1
2 1
log(1 + F ) log 2121

T= = = 11
log 2 log 2
I1.4 Let f (x) be a function such that f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) and f (n) 0 hold for all integers n 6.
f (T )
(T 1) f (T 3)
f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1) = (n 1)(n 2)f (n 2) =
f (11) 10 9 8 f (8)
U= = = 89 = 72
(11 1) f (11 3) 10 f (8)
Individual Event 2

(
I2.1 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. If a = 3 2 )
2009

+ 16 , find the value of a.
1
0< 3 2 = <1
3+ 2
0< ( 3 2 )
2009
(
< 1 a = 3 2

)
2009

+ 16 = 0 + 16 = 16
I2.2 In the coordinate plane, if the area of the triangle formed by the x-axis, y-axis and the line
3
4
1 3 3
Area = b = 4 =
2 4 2
1 1
I2.3 Given that x = 2b and x 3 3 = c , find the value of c.
x x
1 1 1
x = 3 x 2 2 + 2 = 9 x 2 + 2 = 11
x x x
1 1 1
c = x3 3
= x x 2 + 1 + 2 = 3 (11 + 1) = 36
x x x
I2.4 In Figure 1, = c, = 43, = 59 and = d, find the value of d. A

BAD + BCD = 180 (opp. s cyclic quad.) D
c + d + 43 + 59 = 180
d = 180 43 59 36 = 42 (Q c = 36)
B C
Individual Event 3
4 1
I3.1 Given that = a b . If m = a b, find the value of m.
6+ 2 3+ 2
4 1 4 6 2 1 3 2
=
6+ 2 3+ 2 6+ 2 6 2 3 + 2 3 2
=
(
4 6 2 )

3 2
62 32
(
= 6 2 3 2 )
= 6 3
a = 6, b = 3; m = 6 3 = 3
I3.2 In figure 1, PQR is a right-angled triangle and RSTU is a
rectangle. Let A, B and C be the areas of the corresponding
regions. If A : B = m : 2 and A : C = n : 1, find the value of n.
A : B = 3 : 2, A : C = n : 1 A : B : C = 3n : 2n : 3
Let TS = UR = x, QU = y
PTS ~ TQU ~ PQR (equiangular)
SPTS : STQU : SPQR = A : C : (A + B + C) = 3n : 3 : (5n + 3) Method 2
x2 : y2 : (x + y)2 = 3n : 3 : (5n + 3) Let SR = x, PS = z
y 1 x+ y 5n + 3 Join TR which bisects the area
= (1), = (2) of the rectangle.
x n y 3 A 3 A 3
x 5n + 3 = B =
From (2): +1 = (3) B 2 2
1
y 3 S TPS 3 z 3
5n + 3 = = (4)
Sub. (1) into (3): n +1 = S TSR 1 x 1
3 Q PTS ~ TQU (equiangular)
3n + 3 = 5n + 3 A n z
2
n
( 3n + 3 )
2
= 5n + 3
= =
C 1 x 1
3n + 6 n + 3 = 5n + 3 n = 32 = 9 (by (4))
6 n = 2n n = 9
I3.3 Let x1, x2, x3, x4 be real numbers and x1 x2. If (x1 + x3)(x1 + x4) = (x2 + x3)(x2 + x4) = n 10
and p = (x1 + x3) (x2 + x3) + (x1 + x4) (x2 + x4), find the value of p.
Reference: 2002 HI7, 2006HG6, 2014 HG7
x12 + x1 x3 + x1 x4 + x3 x4 = x22 + x2 x3 + x2 x4 + x3 x4 = 1
x12 x22 + x1 x3 x2 x3 + x1 x4 x2 x4 = 0
(x1 x2)(x1 + x2 + x3 + x4) = 0 x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 = 0 (1)
p = (x1 + x3) (x2 + x3) + (x1 + x4) (x2 + x4)
= (x2 + x3)(x2 + x4) (x1 + x3)(x1 + x4) (by (1), x1 + x3 = (x2 + x4), x2 + x4 = (x1 + x3))
=1+1=2 (given (x1 + x3)(x1 + x4) = (x2 + x3)(x2 + x4) = 1)
I3.4 The total number of students in a school is a multiple of 7 and not less than 1000. Given that
the same remainder 1 will be obtained when the number of students is divided by p + 1, p + 2
and p + 3. Let q be the least of the possible numbers of students in the school, find q.
p + 1 = 3, p + 2 = 4, p + 3 = 5; HCF = 1, LCM = 60
q = 60m + 1, where m is an integer.
Q q 1000 and q = 7k, k is an integer.
60m + 1 = 7k
7k 60m = 1
k = 43, m = 5 satisfies the equation
k = 43 + 60t; 7k 1000 7(43 + 60t) 1000 t 2 Least q = 7(43 + 602) = 1141
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Given that x02 + x0 1 = 0 . If m = x03 + 2 x02 + 2 , find the value of m.
m = x03 + 2 x02 + 2 = x03 + x02 x0 + x02 + x0 1 + 3 = 3
I4.2 In Figure 1, BAC is a right-angled triangle, AB = AC = m cm.
Suppose that the circle with diameter AB intersects the line BC at
D, and the total area of the shaded region is n cm2. Find the value
of n.
AB = AC = 3 cm; ADB = 90 ( in semi-circle)
1 1 1
Shaded area = area of ACD = area of ABC = 3 3 cm2
2 2 2
9
n=
4
log (1)
1
I4.3 Given that p = 4n 2009 , find the value of p.
2
0
1 9
p = 4n 2009 = 4 = 9
2 4
(
I4.4 Let x and y be real numbers satisfying the equation x p + y p = 1 . ) (
2
)2
y
If k = and q is the least possible values of k2, find the value of q.
x3
(x 3)2 + (y 3)2 = 1 (1)
Sub. y = k(x 3) into (1): (x 3)2 + [k(x 3) 3]2 = 1
(x 3)2 + k2(x 3)2 6k(x 3) + 9 = 1
(1 + k2)(x 3)2 6k(x 3) + 8 = 0 (1 + k2)t2 6kt + 8 = 0; where t = x 3
For real values of t: = 4[32k2 8(1 + k2)] 0
k2 8
The least possible value of k2 = q = 8.
Method 2
The circle (x 3)2 + (y 3)2 = 1 intersects with 4
the variable line y = k(x 3) which passes 3.5
through a fixed point (3, 0), where k is the

slope of the line. 3
H
From the graph, the extreme points when the

C B
variable line touches the circle at B and C. 2.5
H(3, 3) is the centre of the circle.

In ABH, ABH = 90 ( in semi-circle)
2
Let HAB = , AH = 3, HB = 1, 1.5
AB = 8 = 2 2 (Pythagoras' theorem)
1
1
tan =
8 0.5
Slope of AB = tan (90 ) = 8

O
Least possible k2 = q = 8
1 2 3 A(3, 0) 4
GS.1 In Figure 1, BD, FC, GC and FE are straight lines.
c + f + e + d +JHD = 360 (s sum of polygon JHDE) H
a + b+ g + BHG + c+f+e+d + JHD = 720 J
a + b + c + d + e + f + g + 180 = 720
z = 540
GS.2 If R is the remainder of 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 divided by 7, find the value of R.
66 + 16 = 7Q1 + 2; 56 + 26 = 7Q2 + 226; 46 + 36 = 7Q3 + 236
2 + 226 + 236 = 2(1 + 64 + 729) = 1588 = 7226 + 6; R = 6
Method 2 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 16 + 26 + 36 +(3)6 + (2)6 + (1)6 mod 7
2(16 + 26 + 36) 2(1 + 64 + 729) mod 7
2(1 + 1 + 1) mod 7 6 mod 7
k
GS.3 If 14! is divisible by 6 , where k is an integer, find the largest possible value of k.
k=5
1 1 1 7
GS.4 Let x, y and z be real numbers that satisfy x + = 4, y + = 1 and z + = .
y z x 3
Method 1 Method 2
1 4y 1
x + y = 4 LL (1)
1
From (1), x = 4 =
y y

1 y
= (4) y + = 1LL (2)
1
x 4y 1 z

y 7
z + x = 3 LL (3)
1 7
Sub. (4) into (3): z + =
4y 1 3
7 y
z= (5) (1)(2): xy + 1 +
x
+
1
=4
3 4y 1 z yz
1 1 1
From (2): = 1 y x y + + =3
z
z yz
1
z= (6) Sub. (2) into the eqt.: x +
x
=3
1 y
xyz
1 7 y
(5) = (6): =
= 3 LL (4 )
x
1 y 3 4y 1 Let a = xyz, then x +
a
1 28 y 7 3 y
= (2)(3): y + = y + = LL (5)
7 y 4 7 1 4
1 y 3(4 y 1)
3 a 3 3 a 3
3(4y 1) = (1 y)(25y 7)
(1)(3): z (4 ) + = z 4 + = LL (6)
z 25 1 25
12y 3 = 25y2 7 + 32y a 3 a 3
25y2 20y + 4 = 0
(4)(5)(6): a 1 + + 4 + =
1 7 1 1 100
(5y 2)2 = 0
2 a 3 a a 3
y=
5
(a + 1)(7a + 3)(4a + 1) = 100
2 1 5 3a 2 3
Sub. y = into (6): z = 2 = which reduces to 28a3 53a2 + 22a + 3 = 0
5 1 5 3
2 5 3 (a 1)2(28a + 3) = 0
Sub. y = into (1): x+ =4x= a = 1
5 2 2
2 5 3
xyz = =1
5 3 2
Method 3 (1)(2)(3) (1) (2) (3):
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 28 22 1
xyz + x + y + z + + + + x + y + z + + + = xyz + =2
xyz = 1
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given some triangles with side lengths a cm, 2 cm and b cm, where a and b are integers and
q=3
4 3x
G1.2 Given that the equation x = has k distinct real root(s), find the value of k.
x x
When x > 0: x2 4 = 3x x2 3x 4 = 0 (x + 1)(x 4) = 0 x = 4
x y 7
G1.3 Given that x and y are non-zero real numbers satisfying the equations = and
y x 12
x y 7
xy 12
144 144
x x
w = 16 + 9 = 25
x y 7
xy 12
Q x y = 7 and x + y = w
w+7 w7
x= ,y=
2 2
w+7 w7
2 2
w2 49 = 576 w =25
x y 7
y x 12
w = x + y = 25 only
1
G1.4 Given that x and y are real numbers and x + y 2 1 = 0 .
2
Reference: 2005 FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2011 FI4.3, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
1
2
1 1 3
x= , y = 1; p = + 1 =
2 2 2
Group Event 2
5
G2.1 Given tan = , where 180 270. If A = cos + sin , find the value of A.
12
12 5
cos = , sin =
13 13
12 5 17
A = =
13 13 13

If B = 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + L , find the value of B.

Reference: 2007 FG2.2 x 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3
Let y = 10 + 10 + 10 + L
y2 = 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + L = 10 + y
y2 y 10 = 0
1 + 41 1 41
y= or (rejected)
2 2
7 1 + 41
6 < 41 < 7 < <4
2 2
13.5 < 10 + 10 + 10 + 10 + L < 14 ; B = 13
G2.3 Let a b = ab + 10. If C = (12) 3, find the value of C.

12 = 2 + 10 = 12; C = 123 = 36 + 10 = 46
G2.4 In the coordinate plane, the area of the region bounded by the following lines is D square
L1: y 2 = 0
L2: y + 2 = 0
L3: 4x + 7y 10 = 0
L4: 4x + 7y + 20 = 0
D(-8.5, 2) y=2 C(-1, 2)

2
4x + 7y + 20 = 0 4x + 7y - 10 = 0
-5 O 5
-2
y = -2
A(-1.5, -2) B(6, -2)
B(6, 2), C(1, 2), C(8.5, 2).
The area D = |6 (1.5)||2 (2)| = 7.54 = 30
Group Event 3
2008 80 + 2009 130 + 2010 180
If A = , find the value of A.
2008 15 + 2009 25 + 2010 35
20083 + 40153
Reference: 2008 FGS.4 Calculate the value of .
2007 3 + 40153
Let a = 2009, b = 130, c = 25
2008 80 + 2009 130 + 2010 180 (a 1)(b 50 ) + ab + (a + 1)(b + 50 )
=
2008 15 + 2009 25 + 2010 35 (a 1)(c 10) + ac + (a + 1)(c + 10)
ab b 50a + 50 + ab + ab + b + 50a + 50
=
ac c 10a + 10 + ac + ac + c + 10a + 10
3ab + 100 3 2009 130 + 100 783610
= = = = 5+ d
3ac + 20 3 2009 25 + 20 150695
where 0 < d < 1; A = 5
G3.2 There are R zeros at the end of 99
1239 99
K 12 K 39 + 1 99
12K 39 , find the value of R.
2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's

99
12 K 39 99 12 K 39 + 1 99
12 K 39 = 1 0{ K0 1 1 0{ K0 1 + 2 0{
K0 1
2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's 2009 of 9 's 2009 of 0 's 2009 of 0's 2009 of 0's
2009
= (10 1) (102009 1) + 2102009 1
= 104018 2102009 + 1 + 2102009 1 = 104018
R = 4018
G3.3 In Figure 1, a square of side length Q cm is inscribed in a
semi-circle of radius 2 cm. Find the value of Q.
2
Q 2
Q2 + = 4 (Pythagoras Theorem) Q
2
2
5Q = 16
4 4 5
Q= =
5 5
G3.4 In Figure 2, the sector OAB has radius 4 cm and AOB is a
right angle. Let the semi-circle with diameter OB be centred
at I with IJ // OA, and IJ intersects the semi-circle at K. If
the area of the shaded region is T cm2, find the value of T.
(Take = 3)
OI = 2 cm, OJ = 4 cm
OI 1
cos IOJ = =
OJ 2
IOJ = 60
SBIJ = Ssector OBJ SOIJ
1 1
= ( 4 2 2 4 sin 60o )cm2
2 3 2
8
= ( 2 3 ) cm2
3
Shaded area = SBIJ SBIK
8 1
= 2 3 2 2 cm2
3 4
5
= 2 3 cm2
3
T =5 2 3
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let P be a real number. If 3 2 P + 1 2 P = 2 , find the value of P.
( 3 2P ) = (2
2
1 2P )2
3 2P = 4 4 1 2P + 1 2P
4 1 2P = 2
4(1 2P) = 1
3
P=
8
G4.2 In Figure 1, let AB, AC and BC be the diameters of the
corresponding three semi-circles. If AC = BC = 1 cm
and the area of the shaded region is R cm2. Find the
value of R.
Reference: 1994 HI9
AB = 2
Shaded area = R cm2 = Scircle with diameter AC 2 Ssegment AC
2 2
1 1 2 1 2 1
R = 1 =
2 2 2 2 2

G4.3 In Figure 2, AC, AD, BD, BE and CF are straight

lines. If A +B +C +D = 140 and a+b + c = S,
CFD = A + C (ext. of )
AEB = B + D (ext. of )
a = A + AEB = A + B + D (ext. of )
c = D + CFD = D + A + C (ext. of )
b + A + D = 180 (s sum of )
a + b + c = A + B + D + 180 (A + D)
+ D + A + C
= A + B + C + D + 180
S = a + b + c = 140 +180 = 320
G4.4 Let Q = log 2+ 22 1
(2 )
2 2 1 , find the value of Q.
(
log 2 3 )
Q=
(
log 2 + 3 )
log 2 3 ( )
log(2 + 3 ) ((22 33 ))
=
=
(
log 2 3 )
1
log
2 3
(
log 2 3 )
=
log 2 3 (
= 1
)
Method 2 Q = log 2+ 3
(2 3 ) ((22 ++ 33 ))
1
= log 2+ 3
( )
2+ 3
= log 2+ 3
(2 + 3 ) = 1
1
12
1 1.8 2 96 3 64 4 5 300
07-08 61
Individual 2007
6 27 7 3 8 9 2 10 3
1004
8 1
1 1 2 34891 3 4 48 5
07-08 9 2
Group 25 4 41
6 1 7 8 3 9 6 10
12 5
Individual Events
I1 In Figure 1, ABC is a triangle, AB = 13 cm, BC = 14 cm and A
AC = 15 cm. D is a point on AC such that BD AC. If CD is longer
than AD by X cm, find the value of X. D
X = CD AD = BC cos C AB cos A
15 2 + 14 2 132 15 2 + 132 14 2 14 2 132
X = 14 13 = 2
2 15 14 2 15 13 30 C B
27 9
X= =
15 5
Method 2
BD2 = 142 CD2 = 132 AD2
142 132 = CD2 AD2
(14 + 13)(14 13) = (CD + AD)(CD AD)
27 9
27 = 15(CD AD) X = =
15 5
I2 Given that a trapezium PQRS with dimensions PQ = 6 cm, QR = 15 cm, RS = 8 cm and

SP = 25 cm, also QR // PS. If the area of PQRS is Y cm2, find the value of Y.
Let the height of the trapezium be h cm (= QW). Q 15 cm
R
From Q, draw QT // RS, which intersect PS at T. 6 cm 8 cm
h cm 8 cm
QRST is a //-gram (2 pairs of //-lines) W
TS = 15 cm, QT = 8 cm (opp. sides, //-gram) P 10 cm T 15 cm S
PT = (25 15) cm = 10 cm
QP2 + QT2 = PT2
PQT = 90 (Converse, Pyth. Theorem)
1 1
6 8 = area of PQT = 10 h , h = 4.8
2 2
15 + 25
Area of the trapezium = Y = 4.8 = 96
2
1 1 1
I3 Given that x0 and y0 are positive integers satisfying the equation + = . If 35 < y0 < 50
x y 15
and x0 + y0 = z0, find the value of z0.
Reference: 2009 HG3
15(x + y) = xy
xy 15xy 15y + 225 = 225
(x 15)(y 15) = 225
(x 15, y 15) = (1, 225), (3, 75), (5, 45), (9, 25), (15, 15), (25, 9), (45, 5), (75, 3), (225, 1)
Q 35 < y0 < 50, y0 15 = 25, x0 15 = 9
y0 = 40 and x0 = 24; z0 = 24 + 40 = 64
a 1 b 3 c 4 ac
I4 Let a, b, c and d be real numbers. If = , = , = and 2 = e, find the value
b 2 c 2 d 5 b +d2
of e.
Method 1
a b 1 3 4a a b c 1 3 4 5a
b = 2a; = c = ; = d=
b c 2 2 3 b c d 2 2 5 3
4a 4
a
ac 3 4 9 12
e= 2 = = 3 = =
b +d 2 2
25 3 61 61
(2a )2 + 5a 4 + 9
3
Method 2 a : b = 1 : 2, b : c = 3 : 2
a:b:c
1:2
3:2
3:6:4
a:b:c:d=3:6:4:5
Let a = 3k, b = 6k, c = 4k, d = 5k
e= 2
ac
=
(3k )(4k ) = 12
b +d 2
(6k )2 + (5k )2 61
I5 In Figure 2, the large rectangle is formed by eight identical small
rectangles. Given that the length of the shorter side of the large
rectangle is 40 cm and the area of the small rectangle is A cm2, 40 cm
find the value of A.

Let the length of a small rectangle be y cm;
the width of a small rectangle be x cm. y y
x x x
Then x + y = 40, y = 3x
y x
x = 10, y = 30
x y y
y
A = xy = 300 y
x
x y x x
I6 In Figure 3, ABC is an equilateral triangle. It is formed by A

several identical equilateral triangles. If there are altogether N
equilateral triangles in the figure, find the value of N.
Total number of equilateral triangles is 27. B C
4 5 3
I7 Let r be the larger real root of the equation + = . Find the value of r.
y +1 y 5 2
8(y 5) + 10(y + 1) = 3(y2 4y 5)
3y2 + 6y 45 = 0
y2 + 2y 15 = 0
(y + 5)(y 3) = 0
y = 5 or 3; r = 3
2007 2007
I8 Let x be a rational number and w = x + + x . Find the smallest possible value of w.
2008 2008
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2004 FG4.2, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2011 FGS.1, 2012 FG2.3
Method 1
2007 2007 2007 2007
If x < , w = x x+ = 2x, w = 2x >
2008 2008 2008 1004
2007 2007 2007 2007 2007 2007
If x< ,w=x+ x+ = , w =
2008 2008 2008 2008 1004 1004
2007 2007 2007 2007
If x, w = x + +x = 2x, w = 2x
2008 2008 2008 1004
2007
The smallest possible value of w is .
1004
2007 2007 2007 2007 2007
w = x+ + x x+ + x =
2008 2008 2008 2008 1004
I9 Let m and n be a positive integers. Given that the number 2 appears m times and the number 4
(( )) (( ))
2 4
2 N 4 N
appears n times in the expansion (2 ) = (4 )
2 4 m
. If k = , find the value of k.
n
2 (2 ) = 4 (4 )
m 1 n 1
2 (2 ) = 2 2(2 )
m 1 2 n 2
2m1 = 22n1 m = 2n
k=2
I10 Find the value of log2(sin2 45) + log2(cos2 60) + log2(tan2 45).
1 1
log 2 + log 2 + log 2 1 = 1 2 + 0 = 3
2 4
Group Events
G1 Given that the decimal part of 5 + 11 is A and the decimal part of 5 11 is B.
Let C = A + B, find the value of C.
3 < 11 < 4; 5 + 11 = 5 + 3 + A = 8 + A
5 11 = 5 (3 + A) = 2 A = 1 + (1 A)
B = 1 A; A + B = 1
C=1
G2 A total number of x candies, x is a positive integer, can be evenly distributed to 851 people as
well as 943 people. Find the least possible value of x.
851 = 2337; 943 = 2341
x = 2337m = 2341n, where m, n are positive integers.
37m = 41n
Q 37, 41 are relatively prime, the minimum m = 41
The least possible value of x = 233741 = 85141 = 34891
G3 In Figure 1, ABCD is a tetrahedron with side length of 2 cm. If the D

volume of the tetrahedron is R cm3, find the value of R.
Let M be the mid point of BC. (BM = MC = 1 cm)
C
ABM ACM (SSS)
AM = 3 cm (Pythagoras Theorem)
A
2 3
O is the centriod of ABC. AO = cm
3
8 B
DO = height of the tetrahedron = AD 2 AO 2 = cm
3 D
1 1 8
Volume = R cm3 = 2 2 sin 60o cm3
3 2 3 C
1
R= 8
3 A O M
8
R=
9 B
G4 Given that x is a positive integer and x < 60. If x has exactly 10 positive factors, find the value
of x.
Method 1
Note that except for the perfect square numbers (say 25), all positive integers have even
numbers of factors. For a number x < 60 which has 10 positive factors, x will be divisible by
as many numbers < 8 as possible. One possible choice would be 48. The positive factors are 1,
2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24 and 48.
Method 2 Express N as unique prime factorization: p1r1 p 2 r2 L p n rn , then the number of
factors is (1 + r1)(1 + r2) (1 + rn) = 10 = 25 n = 2, 1 + r1 = 2, 1 + r2 = 5 r1 = 1, r2 = 4
For prime numbers 2, 3, 5, , 243 = 48 < 60, other combinations will exceed 60.
3
G5 Given that 90 < < 180 and sin = . If A = cos(180 ), find the value of A.
2
1
= 120, A = cos 60 =
2
1
G6 Let x be a positive real number. Find the minimum value of x 2008 x 1004 + 1004
.
x
Let t = x1004, then t2 = x2008
1 1 2 t2 1
x 2008
x + 1004 = t t + = t 1
1004 2
+1
x t t
( )
1
= t 2 1 1 + 1 =
( )
t 2 1 (t 1)
+ 1=
(t 1)2 (t + 1) + 1
t t t
Clearly t = x1004 > 0, (t 1)2(t + 1) 0,

(t 1)2 (t + 1) + 1 0 + 1 = 1, equality holds when t = 1.
t
1
When x = 1, the minimum value of x 2008 x 1004 + 1004
is 1.
x
1
3
1
x + 2008 x = 5
3 3
G7 Let x and y be real numbers satisfying 3
. If z = x + y, find the
7 7
y 4 + 2008 y 4 = 5

value of z.
1 7
Let a = x , b = y . Add up the two equations: a3 + b3 + 2008(a + b) = 0
3 4
2 2
(a + b)(a ab + b ) + 2008(a + b) = 0
(a + b)(a2 ab + b2 + 2008) = 0
a + b = 0 or a2 ab + b2 + 2008 = 0
2
b b2
But a ab + b + 2008 = a + + 2008 2008 0
2 2
2 4
1 7 25
a + b = x + y = 0; z = x + y =
3 4 12
G8 Let R be the remainder of 135791113151719 divided by 4. Find the value of R.
Note that if N and m are positive integers, 0 m 99 and x = 100N + m, then the remainder
when x divided by 4 is the same as that when m is divided by 4.
Product =1(41)(4+1)(421)(42+1)(431)(43+1)(441)(44+1)(451)
=1(4+1)(42+1)(43+1)(44+1)(41)(421)(431) (441)(451)
= (4a + 1)(4b 1), where a, and b are integers.
= 16ab + 4(b a) 1, the remainder is 3.
Method 2 135791113151719 1(1)1(1)1(1)1(1)1(1) 3 mod 4
G9 Given that k, x1 and x2 are positive integers with x1 < x2. Let A, B and C be three points on the
curve y = kx2, with x-coordinates being x1, x1 and x2 respectively. If the area of ABC is 15
square units, find the sum of all possible values of k.
y C(x2,kx2^2)
Q k > 0, the parabola opens upwards with following shape:
1
Area of ABC = AB height
2
1
(x1 + x1 ) (kx 22 kx12 ) = 15
2
kx1(x22 x12) = 15
Possible k = 1, 3, 5, 15
When k = 1, x1 = 1, x2 = 4
When k = 5, x1 = 1, x2 = 2 A(-x1,kx1^2) B(x1,kx1^2) x
Sum of all possible values of k = 1 + 5 = 6
G10 In Figure 2, ABCD is rectangular piece of paper with AB = 4 cm
A E D
and BC = 5 cm. Fold the paper by putting point C onto A to create
a crease EF. If EF = r cm, find the value of r.
Suppose D will be folded to a position D', CDE AD'E
Let O be the mid point of AC. AE = CE, OE = OE, AO = OC,
AOE COE SSS
DO = OE, ODE = OFB, OED = OFB; ODE OFB
B F C
CF = BC BF = AD DE = AE
AECF is a rhombus (4 sides equal)
In ABC, AC2 = 42 + 52 (Pythagoras' Theorem) D'
41 A=C E D
AC = 41 ; AO = (diagonal of a rhombus)
2
Let BF = DE = t
4 O
AE = 5 t = EC = CF = AF
In ABF, 42 + t2 = (5 t)2 = 25 10t + t2 (Pythagoras' Theorem)
9 9 41 C
t = , AF = 5 = B t F 5 -t
10 10 10
In AOF, OF2 = AF2 AO2 (Pythagoras' Theorem)
OF = (4.1)2
41 4 41
=
4 5
41
Method 2 As before, AECF is a rhombus. AC and EF bisect each other at O. AO = .
2
EAO = ACB (alt. s AD // BC)
AOE = 90 = ABC (property of rhombus)
tan EAO = tan ACB
EO 4
=
41 5
2
2 41
EO =
5
4 41
EF = 2EO =
5
Individual Events
SI k 2 I1 A 15 I2 P 3 I3 A 2 I4 P 4 IS a 2
d 1 B 3 Q 4 B 3 Q 300 b 2
a 6 C 4 R 10 C 45 R 2 c 3
50
t D 8 S 112.5 D 7 S 2 3 d 35
11
Group Events
1 5
SG W G1 m 8 G2 z 540 G3 k 33 G4 m 13 GS value 1
2
1
T 29 h 13 R 6 v 6 n 6 x4 4036079
x4
99
S 106 x+y+z 11 k 5 value 106 abc+def 72 cot
20
6023
k 4 Number 72 xyz 1 r 27405 p+q 2 value
6022
SI.1 Let k = 7 13 7 13 , find the value of k.
2
k = 7 13 7 13
2

2
k = 7 13 2 7 2 13 7 13
= 14 2 36 = 2
SI.2 In Figure 1, the straight line passes though the point (k, 3) and
makes an angle 45 with the x-axis. If the equation of is
x + by + c = 0 and d = |1 + b + c|, find the value of d.
y 3
: tan 45
x2
y3=x2
x y + 1 = 0, b = 1, c = 1
d = |1 1 + 1| = 1
SI.3 If x d is a factor of x3 6x2 +11x + a, find the value of a.
f(x) = x3 6x2 +11x + a
f(1) = 1 6 +11 + a = 0
a = 6
a
SI.4 If cos x + sin x = and t = tan x + cot x, find the value of t.
5
6
cos x + sin x =
5
36
(cos x + sin x)2 =
25
36
1 + 2 sin x cos x =
25
11 11
25 50
d = tan x + cot x
sin x cos x
=
cos x sin x
sin 2 x cos 2 x
=
sin x cos x
1 50
=
sin x cos x 11
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let A = 15tan 44tan45tan46, find the value of A.
Similar question: 2012 FG2.1
1
A 15 tan 44 1 = 15
tan 44

n 2008 's

I1.2 Let n be a positive integer and 20082008 200815 is divisible by A.
If the least possible value of n is B, find the value of B.
Reference: 2010 HG2

n 2008 's

The necessary condition is: 20082008 2008 must be divisible by 3.
I1.3 Given that there are C integers that satisfy the equation |x 2| + |x + 1| = B, find the value of C
|x 2| + |x + 1| = 3
If x < 1, 2 x x 1 = 3 x = 1 (rejected)
If 2 < x, x 2 + x + 1 = 3 x = 2 (reject)
1 x 2 only
x is an integer, x = 1, 0, 1, 2; C = 4
I1.4 In the coordinate plane, the distance from the point (C, 0) to the straight line y = x is D,
Ax0 By 0 C
A2 B 2
400 4
The distance from (4, 0) to x y = 0 is D= 2 2 8;D=8
12 1
2
2
2
Method 2
4
y=x
D = 4 sin 45 =
2 (-4, 0)
16
-5
45 O
D= =8
2
D
-2
Individual Event 2
1
1
I2.1 Given that P = 3 6 3 , find the value of P.

162
1
6 162 3
P = 3 =3 = 27 = 3
162 6
I2.2 Let a, b and c be real numbers with ratios b : (a + c) = 1 : 2 and a : (b + c) = 1 : P.

abc
If Q , find the value of Q.
a
2b = a + c (1), 3a = b + c (2)
(1) (2): 2b 3a = a b 3b = 4a a : b = 3 : 4
Let a = 3k, b = 4k, sub. into (1): 2(4k) = 3k + c c = 5k
a b c 3k 4k 5k
Q = =4
a 3k
Q Q
I2.3 Let R = 3 2 3 2 . Find the value of R.

4 4
R = 3 2 3 2

= 3 2
2
3 2
2
= 3 2 6 2 3 2 6 2 = 10
I2.4 Let S = (x R)2 + (x + 5)2, where x is a real number. Find the minimum value of S.
S = (x 10)2 + (x + 5)2
= x2 20x + 100 + x2 + 10x + 25
= 2x2 10x + 125
= 2(x2 5x) + 125
= 2(x 2.5)2 + 125 22.52
= 2(x 2.5)2 + 112.5 112.5
The minimum value of S is 112.5.
Method 2
S = (10 x)2 + (x + 5)2
Let a = 10 x, b = x + 5
a + b = 15, which is a constant
a2 + b2 reaches its minimum when a = b = 7.5
Minimum S = 7.52 + 7.52 = 112.5
Individual Event 3
1 3
I3.1 Given that satisfies the equation x2 + px + q = 0, where p and q are rational numbers.
2
If A = |p| + 2|q|, find the value of A.
For an equation with rational coefficients, conjugate roots occur in pairs.
1 3
That is, the other root is .
2
1 3 1 3
+ = p p = 1
2 2
1 3 1 3 1
q q =
2 2 2
1
A = |1| + 2 = 2
2
I3.2 Two bags U1 and U2 contain identical red and white balls. U1 contains A red balls and 2 white
balls. U2 contains 2 red balls and B white balls. Take two balls out of each bag. If the
1
probability of all four balls are red is , find the value of B.
60
U1 contains 2 red and 2 white, total 4 balls. U2 contains 2 red and B white, total 2 + B balls.
2 1 2 1 1
P(all 4 are red) =
4 3 2 B 1 B 60
20 = (2 + B)(1 + B)
B2 + 3B 18 = 0
(B 3)(B + 6) = 0
B=3
I3.3 Figure 1 is formed by three identical circles touching one
another, the radius of each circle is B cm. If the perimeter of
the shaded region is C cm, find the value of C. (Take = 3)
Let the centres of the circles be P,
Q and R respectively.
P
Then PQ = 2B = 6 = QR = PR
PQR is an equilateral . N
P = Q = R = 60 M
Perimeter = 323 3 MN
60 Q L R
= 18 323
360
= 15 = 45
I3.4 Let D be the integer closest to C , find the value of D.

6 = 36 < 45 < 49 = 7 6 < D < 7
6.52 = 42.25 < 45 6.5 < D < 7, D = 7
Method 2
6 = 36 < 45 < 49 = 7 6 < D < 7
|45 36| = 9, |45 49| = 4
45 is closer to 49
45 is closer to 7
D=7
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Given that x and y are real numbers such that |x| + x + y = 10 and |y| + x y = 10. If P = x + y,
2 x y 10
If x 0, y 0; , solving give x = 10, y = 10 (reject)
x 10
2 x y 10
If x 0, y < 0, , solving give x = 6, y = 2
x 2 y 10
y 10
If x < 0, y 0, , reject
x 10
y 10
If x < 0, y < 0; , solving give x = 30, y = 10 (reject)
x 2 y 10
x = 6, y = 2
P=x+y=62=4
I4.2 In Figure 1, the shaded area is formed by two concentric circles
and has area 96 cm2. If the two radii differ by 2P cm and the
large circle has area Q cm2, find the value of Q. (Take = 3)
Let the radii of the large and small circles be R and r respectively.
(R2 r2) = 96 and R r = 8 (1)
(R + r)(R r) = 96 (R + r)8 = 96 R + r = 12 (2)
(2) + (1): 2R = 20 R = 10 Q = (10)2 = 300
I4.3 Let R be the largest integer such that RQ < 5200, find the value of R.
R300 < 5200 R3 < 25, the largest integer is 2.
I4.4 In Figure 2, there are a square ABCD with side length (R 1) cm
and an equilateral triangle AEF. (E and F are points on BC and
CD respectively). If the area of AEF is (S 3) cm2, find the
value of S.
Reference: 1995 HG7
Let AF = x cm = FE = AE
FAE = 60, DAF = BAE = 15
AD = 1 = AF cos 15 = x cos 15 x = sec 15
1 1 1 3 3 1 3 1 3 2
S 3 = x2 sin 60 = = = = =2 3 3; S =2 3
2 2
2 cos 15 2 2 1 cos 30
2 1 2 3 2 2 3
Method 2
Let CE = CF = x cm
D 1 A
Then BE = DF = (1 x) cm
By Pythagoras theorem,
AF = FE 1 + (1 x)2 = x2 + x2
F
2 2x + x2 = 2x2 x 1
x2 + 2x 2 = 0 x2 = 2 2x
x = 1 3
C B
Area of AFE = Area of square area of CEF 2 area of ADF x E
x2 1 1 x x2 2 2x
= 1 2 =x =x = 2x 1
2 2 2 2

= 2 1 3 1= 2 3 3
S 3 =2 3 3; S =2 3
Individual Spare
1 1 1
IS.1 If all the positive factors of 28 are d1, d2, , dn and a = , find the value of a.
d1 d 2 dn
1 1 1 1 1
Positive factors of 28 are 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 28. a = 1 = 2
2 4 7 14 28
1 7
IS.2 Given that x is a negative real number that satisfy = a. If b =x+ , find the value of b
1 2
x
x2
1 x2
=2 2 x + 2 = 2x2 + 4x + 2 2x2 + 3x = 0 x = 1.5 or 0 (reject)
1 xx 2 1
x
x2
b = 1.5 + 3.5 = 2
IS.3 Let and be the two roots of the equation x2 + cx + b = 0, where c < 0 and = 1. Find
the value of c.
= b = 2; ( )2 = 1 ( + )2 4 = 1 (c)2 42 = 1, c = 3
IS.4 Let d be the remainder of (196c)2008 divided by 97. Find the value of d.
[196(3)]2008 = 5882008 = (976 +6)2008
Note that 253 = 96 = 97 1 1 (mod 97); 235 = 486 = 975 + 1 1 (mod 97);
66 = (253)(235) 1 (mod 97)
62008 = (66)33464 (1)3341296 9713 + 35 35 (mod 97)
d = 35
SG.1 In Figure 1, AEFD is a unit square. The ratio of the length of A E B

length of the rectangle BCFE to its width. If the length of AB
is W units, find the value of W.
W 1

1 W 1 D
F
C
1 5
W2 W 1 = 0 W =
2
SG.2 On the coordinate plane, there are T points (x, y), where x, y are integers, satisfying x2+y2 < 10,
find the value of T. (Reference: 2002 FI4.3)
x^2+y^2=10
We first count the number of integral points in the first 2
quadrant:
x = 1; y = 1, 2
x = 2; y = 1, 2 O

= 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1 = 13 -2
T = 44 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1
= 29
SG.3 Let P and P + 2 be both prime numbers satisfying P(P + 2) 2007. If S represents the sum of
such possible values of P, find the value of S.
P2 + 2P 2007 0
(P + 1)2 2008 0
(P + 1 + 2008 )(P + 1 2008 ) 0
(P + 1 + 2 502 )(P + 1 2 502 ) 0
1 2 502 P 1 + 2 502
P is a prime 0 < P 1 + 2 502
22 = 484 < 502 < 529 = 23
43 < 1 + 2 502 < 45
(P, P + 2) = (3, 5), (5, 7), (11, 13), (17, 19), (29, 31), (41, 43)
S = 3 + 5 + 11 + 17 + 29 + 41 = 106
SG.4 It is known that log10(20072006 20062007) = a10k, where 1 a < 10 and k is an integer. Find
the value of k.
> 2006(log 2006 + log 2006) + log 2006
= 4013 log 2006
= 4013 log(2.006103)
= 4013 (log 2.006 + 3)
> 4013 log 2 + 40133 = 4013(log 2 + 3)
> 4013(0.3 + 3) = 13242.9 = 1.32429104
k=4
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that there are three points on the coordinate P(12, 0)
plane: O(0, 0), A(12, 2) and B(0, 8). A reflection of Q(12, 10)
10
OAB along the straight line y = 6 creates PQR. If B(0, 8)

the overlapped area of OAB and PQR is m square
M(4, 6)
5
units, find the value of m.
P(12, 0), Q (12, 10), R(0, 4). R(0, 4)
Suppose AB intersects QR at M(x, 6). A(12, 2)

O 10
Slope of MR = slope of QR
6 4 10 4
x = 4; M(4, 6)
x 12
1
Area of the overlap BMR = (8 4)4 = 8; m = 8
2
G1.2 In Figure 1, ABCD is a parallelogram with BA = 3 cm,

BC = 4 cm and BD = 37 cm. If AC = h cm, find the
value of h.
CD = BA = 3 cm (opp. sides, //-gram)
2
4 2 3 2 37 1
In BCD, cos C = =
2 3 4 2
1
cos B = cos(180 C) = cos C = (int. s AB // DC)
2
In ABC, AC = 32 4 2 2 3 4 cos B = 13 ; h = 13
Method 2 http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/gi/fh7878/public_html/Trigonometry/Apollonius_Theorem.pdf
By Apollonius theorem,
2BA2 + 2BC2 = AC2 + BD2
232 + 242 = h2 + 37
h = 13
151
G1.3 Given that x, y and z are positive integers and the fraction can be written in the form of
44
1
3 . Find the value of x + y + z.
1
x
1
y
z
151 19 1 1 1 1
=3 =3 =3 =3 =3
44 44 44
2 196 1 1
19 2 2
19
6
3 16
x = 2, y = 3, z = 6; x + y + z = 11
G1.4 When 491 is divided by a two-digit integer, the remainder is 59. Find this two-digit integer.
Let the number be 10x + y, where 0 < x 9, 0 y 9.
491 = (10x + y)Q + 59; 59 < 10x + y
491 59 = 432 = (10x + y)Q; 432 = 726; the number is 72.
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, BD, FC, GC and FE are straight lines.
c + f + e + d + JHD = 360 (s sum of polygon JHDE) H
a + b+ g + BHG + c+f+e+d + JHD = 720 J
a + b + c + d + e + f + g + 180 = 720
z = 540
G2.2 If R is the remainder of 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 divided by 7, find the value of R.
66 + 16 = 7Q1 + 2; 56 + 26 = 7Q2 + 226; 46 + 36 = 7Q3 + 236
2 + 226 + 236 = 2(1 + 64 + 729) = 1588 = 7226 + 6; R = 6
Method 2 16 + 26 + 36 + 46 + 56 + 66 16 + 26 + 36 +(3)6 + (2)6 + (1)6 mod 7
2(16 + 26 + 36) 2(1 + 64 + 729) mod 7
2(1 + 1 + 1) mod 7 6 mod 7
k
G2.3 If 14! is divisible by 6 , where k is an integer, find the largest possible value of k.
k=5
1 1 1 7
G2.4 Let x, y and z be real numbers that satisfy x + = 4, y + = 1 and z + = .
y z x 3
Method 1 Method 2
1 4y 1
x y 4 1
From (1), x = 4 = 1
y y

1 y
(4)
y 1 2
1
x 4y 1 z

y 7
z x 3 3
1 7
Sub. (4) into (3): z +
4y 1 3
7 y
z= (5) (1)(2): xy 1
x

1
4
3 4y 1 z yz
1 1 1
From (2): = 1 y x y 3
z
z yz
1
z= (6) Sub. (2) into the eqt.: x
x
3
1 y
xyz
1 7 y
(5) = (6): = Let a = xyz, then x
x
3 4
1 y 3 4y 1
a
1 28 y 7 3 y
= (2)(3): y y 5
7 y 4 7 1 4
1 y 34 y 1

3 a 3 3 a 3
3(4y 1) = (1 y)(25y 7)
(1)(3): z 4 z 4 6
z 25 1 25
12y 3 = 25y2 7 + 32y a 3 a 3
25y2 20y + 4 = 0
(4)(5)(6): a 1 4
1 7 1 1 100
2
(5y 2)2 = 0 y = a 3 a a 3
5
2 1 5 a 17a 34a 1 100
Sub. y = into (6): z = = 3a 2 3
5 1 25 3
2 5 3
which reduces to 28a3 53a2 + 22a + 3 = 0
Sub. y = into (1): x+ =4x = (a 1)2(28a + 3) = 0
5 2 2
2 5 3 a = 1
xyz = = 1
5 3 2
Method 3 (1)(2)(3) (1) (2) (3):
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 28 22 1
xyz x y z x y z xyz 2
xyz = 1
Group Event 3
G3.1 In Figure 1, PQRS is a cyclic quadrilateral, where S is on the
straight line RT and TP is tangent to the circle. If RS = 8 cm,
RT = 11 cm and TP = k cm, find the value of k.
Join PR. SPT = PRS ( in alt. seg.)
STP = PTR (common )
STP ~ PTR (equiangular)
TP TS k 11 8
(ratio of sides, ~ ) ; k = 33
TR TP 11 k
G3.2 The layout in Figure 2 can be used to fold a polyhedron. If

this polyhedron has v vertices, find the value of v.
There are 8 faces. f = 8.
There are 8 equilateral s, no of sides = 83 = 24
Each side is shared by 2 faces. Number of edge e = 12
By Euler formula, v e + f = 2
v 12 + 8 = 2 v = 6
G3.3 For arbitrary real number x, define [x] to be the largest integer less than or equal to x. For
instance, [2] = 2 and [3.4] = 3. Find the value of [1.0088100].
1.0088100 = (1 + 0.008)8100 = 100(1 + 80.008 + 280.0082 + ) 106.4
The integral value = 106
G3.4 When choosing, without replacement, 4 out of 30 labelled balls that are marked from 1 to 30,
there are r combinations. Find the value of r.
30 29 28 27
r = 30C4 = = 27405
1 2 3 4
Remark: If the question is changed to: Choose 4 out of 30 labelled balls that are marked from
1 to 30 with repetition is allowed, there are r combinations. Find the value of r.
We shall divide into 5 different cases:
Case 1: All 4 balls are the same number, 30 combinations
Case 2: XXXY, where X, Y are different numbers, 30C2 = 435 combinations
Case 3 XXYY, where X, Y are different numbers, 30C2 = 435 combinations
Case 4 XXYZ, where X, Y, Z are different numbers, 3029282 = 12180 combinations
Case 5 XYZW, where X, Y, Z, W are different numbers, 30C4 = 27405 combinations
Total number of combinations = 30 + 435 + 435 + 12180 + 27405 = 40485
Group Event 4
G4.1 Regular tessellation is formed by identical regular m-polygons for some fixed m. Find the sum
of all possible values of m.
180 m 2
Each interior angle = (s sum of polygon)
m
Suppose n m-polygons tessellate the space.
180 m 2
n= 360 (s at a point)
m
n(m 2) = 2m
n(m 2) 2m + 4 = 4
(n 2)(m 2) = 4
m 2 = 1, 2 or 4
m = 3, 4 or 6
Sum of all possible m = 3 + 4 + 6 = 13
G4.2 Amongst the seven numbers 3624, 36024, 360924, 3609924, 36099924, 360999924 and
3609999924, there are n of them that are divisible by 38. Find the value of n.
38 = 219, we need to investigate which number is divisible by 19.
192 = 361
3624 = 3610 + 13
36024 = 36100 76 = 100(192) 194
360924 = 361000 76
3609924 = 3610000 76
36099924 = 36100000 76
360999924 = 361000000 76
3609999924 = 3610000000 76
n=6
G4.3 If 208208 = 85a + 84b + 83c + 82d + 8e + f, where a, b, c, d, e, and f are integers and 0 a, b, c,
d, e, f 7, find the value of abc + def.
8208208
8 2 6 0 2 6 0
8 3 2 5 3 2
8 4 0 6 5
8 5 0 6
6 2
a = 6, b = 2, c = 6, d = 5, e = 2, f = 0
abc + def = 72
G4.4 In the coordinate plane, rotate point A(6, 8) about the origin O(0, 0) counter-clockwise for
20070 to point B(p, q). Find the value of p + q.
20070 = 36055 + 270
B(8, 6)
p+q=2
Group Spare
GS.1 Calculate the value of 2008 2007
2007
2007 2008 2007
.
2008 2007 2007
2007 2008
2007
= 2007 20082007 = (1)2007 = 1
1 1
GS.2 If x = 2007 , find the value of x4 + .
x x4
2
1
x = 2007
x
1
x2 2 = 2007
x2
1
x2 = 2009
x2
2
2 1
x 2 = 20092 = 4036081
x
4 1
x +2+ = 4036081
x4
1
x4 + = 4036079
x4
99
GS.3 Given that cos = and 180 < < 270. Find the value of cot .
101
101
sec =
99
tan2 = sec2 1
2
=
101
1
99
1012 99 2
=
99 2
=
101 99 101 99
99 2
400
=
99 2
20
tan =
99
99
cot = (= 4.95)
20
2008 3 4015 3
GS.4 Calculate the value of .
2007 3 4015 3
Let x = 2007.5, then 2x = 4015
3
1
8 x 82 x 3
2008 3 4015 3
=
x 0.53 2 x 3 = 2
=
2 x 13 4 x 3
2007 3 40153 x 0.53 2 x 3 1
3
2 x 1 4 x 3
8 x 82 x 3
2
2 x 1 4 x 2 x 12 4 x 2 x 1 4 x 2
2 x 1 4 x 2 x 12 4 x 2 x 1 4 x 2
=
6 x 14 x 2 4 x 1 8 x 2 4 x 16 x 2
6 x 14 x 2 4 x 1 8 x 2 4 x 16 x 2
=
6 x 112 x 2 1 = 6 x 1
6 x 112 x 2 1 6 x 1
=
6023
=
6022
Individual Events
I1 a 2 I2 a 16 I3 a 1 I4 A 16
1
b 1 b 160 b 17 b
2
3
c 6 c 3 c 8 c
2
50 8
d d d 18 d 6
11 27
Group Events
1+ 5
G1 W G2 R 18434 G3 b 40 G4 x 137
2
12 1
T 29 x 6 t (= 2.4) R
5 2
S 106 y 12100 x 10 3 z 77
k 4 Q 9 S 25 r 6
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let a be a real number and a = 7 + 13 7 13 . Find the value of a.
2
a = 7 + 13 7 13
2

2
a = 7 + 13 2 7 2 13 + 7 13
= 14 2 36 = 2
y
I1.2 In Figure 1, the straight line l passes though the point l
(a, 3), and makes an angle 45 with the x-axis. If the
equation of l is x + my + n = 0 and b = |1 + m + n|, find (a, 3)
the value of b.
y 3
l: = tan 45o
x2
y3=x2
x y + 1 = 0, m = 1, n = 1
b = |1 1 + 1| = 1 45
x
3 2
I1.3 If x b is a factor of x 6x +11x + c, find the value of c.
f (x) = x3 6x2 +11x + c
f (1) = 1 6 +11 + c = 0
c = 6
c
I1.4 If cos x + sin x = and d = tan x + cot x, find the value of d.
5
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1993 HG10, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2014 HG3
6
cos x + sin x =
5
36
(cos x + sin x)2 =
25
36
1 + 2 sin x cos x =
25
11 11
25 50
sin x cos x sin 2 x + cos 2 x 1 50
d = tan x + cot x = + = = =
cos x sin x sin x cos x sin x cos x 11
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Let n = 1 + 3 + 5 +...+31 and m = 2 + 4 + 6 ...+ 32. If a = m n, find the value of a.
a = 2 + 4 + 6 + 32 (1 + 3 + 5 + +31)
= (2 1) + (4 3) + + (32 31)
= 1 + 1 + + 1 = 16
I2.2 If Figure 1, ABCD is a trapezium, AB = 4 cm, EF = a cm, A4 cm B
CD = 22 cm and FD = 8 cm, if the area of ABEF is b cm2,
A 4 cm B
From A, draw a line APQ parallel
to BC, cutting FE at P and DC at Q.
FP = 12 cm, DQ = 18 cm
AFP ~ ADQ F
a cm
E
x x+8
Let AF = x cm = , x = 16 F
16 cm P
E 8 cm
12 18
b=
(4 + 16)16 = 160 8 cm D 22 cm C
2 D 22 cm Q C
I2.3 In Figure 2, ABC is a triangle, AB = AC = 10 cm and C

ABC = b 100. If ABC has c axis of symmetry, find the
value of c. 10 cm
ABC = 160 100 = 60 = ACB = BAC
ABC is an equilateral triangle.
It has 3 axis of symmetry. A
B 10 cm
2 1
I2.4 Let d be the least real root of the cx 3 8x 3
+ 4 = 0 , find the value of d.
2 1 1 1
3 3
3x 8 x + 4 = 0 3x 2 x 2 = 0
3 3

1
2
x3 = or 2
3
8 8
x= or 8, the least real root is .
27 27
Individual Event 3
I3.1 Suppose that a = cos4 sin4 2 cos2 , find the value of a.
a = (cos2 + sin2 )(cos2 sin2 ) 2 cos2
= cos2 sin2 2 cos2 = (sin2 + cos2 ) = 1
I3.2 If xy = 3 and b = x3y + 10a, find the value of b.
b = (xy)3 10 = 33 10 = 27 10 = 17
n+b
I3.3 If there is (are) c positive integer(s) n such that is also a positive integer, find the value
n7
of c.
n + 17 24
=1 +
n7 n7
n 7 = 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, c = 8
I3.4 Suppose that d = log4 2 + log4 4 + log4 8 + ...+ log4 2c, find the value of d.
d = log4 2 + log4 4 + log4 8 + ...+ log4 28
= log4(24828) = log4(21+2+3++8)
36 log 2 36 36 log 2
= log4(2 ) = = = 18
log 4 2 log 2
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In Figure 1, let the area of the closed region bounded by the straight y
line x + y = 6 and y = 4, x = 0 and y = 0 be A square units, find the
y
x + y= 6
value of A. y=4
As shown in the figure, the intersection points x + y= 6
R Q y=4
P(6, 0), Q(2, 4), R(0, 6)
OP = 6, OR = 4, QR = 2 O
x
Area = A =
1
(6 + 2 ) 4 = 16 O P
x
2
Ax 2 4 = 0
If b satisfies the system of equations , find the value of b.
3 + 2( x + [x ]) = 0
16 x 2 4 = 0 1 1
from the first equation x = or .
3 + 2( x + [x ]) = 0 2 2
1 1
Substitute x = into the second equation: LHS = 3 + 2( + 0) = 4 RHS
2 2
1 1
Substitute x = into the second equation: LHS = 3 + 2( 1) = 0 = RHS
2 2
1
b =
2
b
I4.3 Let c be the constant term in the expansion of (2x + )3. Find the value of c.
x
b b3
(2x + )3 = 8 x 3 + 12bx x + 6b 2 +
x x x
1 3
c = the constant term = 6b2 = 6( )2 =
2 2
x
I4.4 If the number of integral solutions of the inequality 2 < c is d, find the value of d.
2
x 3
2 <
2 2
3 x 3
< 2<
2 2 2
2 2 3< x < 2 2 +3
2(1.4) 3 < x < 2(1.4) + 3
0.2 < x < 5.8
x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
d=6
Group Event 1
G1.1 In Figure 1, AEFD is a unit square. The ratio of the length of
A E B
length of the rectangle BCFE to its width. If the length of
AB is W units, find the value of W.
W 1
=
1 W 1 D
F C
1+ 5
W2 W 1 = 0 W =
2
G1.2 On the coordinate plane, there are T points (x, y), where x, y are integers, satisfying
x2 + y2 < 10, find the value of T. (Reference: 2002 FI4.3)
x^2+y^2=10
We first count the number of integral points in the first
2
quadrant:
x = 1; y = 1, 2
x = 2; y = 1, 2 O

= 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1 = 13 -2
T = 4 4 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 1
= 29
G1.3 Let P and P + 2 be both prime numbers satisfying P(P + 2) 2007.
If S represents the sum of such possible values of P, find the value of S.
P2 + 2P 2007 0
(P + 1)2 2008 0
(P + 1 + 2008 )(P + 1 2008 ) 0
(P + 1 + 2 502 )(P + 1 2 502 ) 0
1 2 502 P 1 + 2 502
P is a prime 0 < P 1 + 2 502
22 = 484 < 502 < 529 = 23
43 < 1 + 2 502 < 45
(P, P + 2) = (3, 5), (5, 7), (11, 13), (17, 19), (29, 31), (41, 43)
S = 3 + 5 + 11 + 17 + 29 + 41 = 106
G1.4 It is known that log10(20072006 20062007) = a10k, where 1 a < 10 and k is an integer.
Find the value of k.
> 2006(log 2006 + log 2006) + log 2006
= 4013 log 2006
= 4013 log(2.006103)
= 4013 (log 2.006 + 3)
> 4013 log 2 + 40133
> 40130.3 + 40133 = 13242.9 = 1.32429104
k=4
Group Event 2
G2.1 If R = 12 + 222 + 323 + + 10210, find the value of R.
1024
Similar question: 2005 HI7 If M = [log 2 n ] , find the value of M.
n =1
2R = 12 + 22 + + 92 + 10211
2 3 10
R 2R = 2 + 22 + 23 + + 210 10211
R =
(
a Rn 1 )
10 211 =
(
2 210 1 )
10 2048
R 1 2 1
R = 20480 2(1023) = 18434
G2.2 If integer x satisfies x 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 , find the minimum value of x.
Let y = 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + L (to infinity)
(y 3)2 = 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + L = y
y2 7y + 9 = 0
7 + 13 7 13
y= or
2 2
7 13
Clearly y > 3 and <3
2
7 + 13
y = only
2
7+ 9 7 + 13 7 + 16
5= < < = 5.5
2 2 2
3 + 3 + 3 > 3 + 3 + 1.7 > 3 + 4.41 = 3 + 2.1 = 5.1
5.1 < 3 + 3 + 3 < 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 < 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + L < 5.5

x=6
146410000 12100
G2.3 Let y = , find the value of y.
12099
12100 2 12100
y=
12100 1
12100(12100 1)
=
12100 1
= 12100
G2.4 On the coordinate plane, a circle with centre T(3, 3) passes through the origin O(0, 0). If A is a
point on the circle such that AOT = 45 and the area of AOT is Q square units, find the
value of Q. A P
OT = 3 + 3 = 3 2
2 2
OT = AT = radii
OAT = 45 (side opp. eq. s) T(3, 3)
ATO = 90 (s sum of ) 45
1 1
Q = OT AT = 3 2 = 9
2 2
( )
2
O(0, 0)
Group Event 3
G3.1 In figure 1, MN is a straight line, QON = a, POQ = b
and POM = c. If b : a = 2 : 1 and c : b = 3 : 1, find the
value of b.
b = 2a, c = 3b = 6a
a + b + c = 180 (adj. s on st. line)
a + 2a + 6a = 180 a = 20
b = 2a = 40
50 + 120 + 130 50 130 k
G3.2 It is known that (150 50) (150 120) (150 130) = .
2 2
k
If t = , find the value of t.
1 k 2
The question is equivalent to: given a triangle with sides 50, 120, 130, find its area.
50 2 + 130 2 120 2 5
cos C = =
2 50 130 13
1 50 130 k 12
Using the formula ab sin C = , k = sin C = 1 cos 2 C =
2 2 13
k sin C 12
t= = = tan C =
1 k 2 cos C 5
G3.3 In Figure 2, an ant runs ahead straightly for 5 sec 15 cm from
point A to point B. It then turns 30 to the right and run
5 sec 15 cm to point C. Again it repeatedly turns 30 to the
right and run 5 sec 15 twice to reach the points D and E
respectively. If the distance of AE is x cm, find the value of x.
By symmetry BAE =DEA = [180(5 2) 1503] 2
= 45 ( sum of polygon)
Produce AB and ED to intersect at F.
AFE = 180 45 45 = 90 (s sum of )
By symmetry, BFC = DFC = 45 F D E
BCF = DCF = (360 150) 2 = 105 (s at a pt.) 45 150

45
C
Let AB = y = 5 sec 15 cm = CD = DE, let z = BF. z 105
150
z y
Apply Sine rule on ABC, = y
sin 105 sin 45 B 150 x

z = 2 sin 105 y
y
In AEF, x = (y + z) sec 45 = 2 (y + 2 sin 105 y) 45
(
= y 2 1 + 2 sin 105 )
( )
A
= 5 sec15 2 12 + sin 105 = 10 sec 15 (sin 105 + sin 45)
3
= 10 sec 15(2 sin 75 cos 30) = 20 sec 15cos 15 = 10 3
2 E
D
Method 2
150
Join AC, CE. With similar working steps, BAE =DEA = 45 C
BAC = BCA = 15 = DCE = DEC (s sum of isos. )
150
CAE = 45 15 = 30 = CEA y
AC = CE = 2y cos 15 = 25 sec 15 cos 15 = 10 B

x
150
3
x = 2 AC cos 30 = 20 = 10 3 y
2
A
G3.4 There are 4 problems in a mathematics competition. The scores of each problem are allocated
in the following ways: 2 marks will be given for a correct answer, 1 mark will be deducted
from a wrong answer and 0 mark will be given for a blank answer. To ensure that 3 candidates
will have the same scores, there should be at least S candidates in the competition. Find the
value of S.
We shall tabulate different cases:

case no. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 marks for each question
correct 4 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2
blank 0 1 0 2 0 1 3 2 1 1 4 3 2 1 0 0
wrong 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3 4 1
Total 8 6 5 4 2 3 2 1 0 1 0 1 2 3 4
The possible total marks for one candidate to answer 4 questions are:
8, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4; altogether 12 possible combinations.
To ensure 3 candidates will have the same scores, we consider the worst scenario:
Given that there are 24 candidates. 2 candidates score 8 marks, 2 candidates score 6
marks, ..............., 2 candidates score 4 marks, then the 25th candidate will score the same as
the other two candidates.
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let x be the number of candies satisfies the inequalities 120 x 150. 2 candies will be
remained if they are divided into groups of 5 candies each; 5 candies will be remained if they
are divided into groups of 6 candies each. Find the value of x.
x = 5m + 2 = 6n + 5, where m and n are integers.
5m 6n = 3
53 62 = 15 12 = 3
m = 3, n = 2 is a pair of solution
The general solution is m = 3 + 6t, n = 2 + 5t, where t is any integer.
x = 5m + 2 = 5(3 + 6t) + 2 = 30t + 17
120 x 150 120 30t + 17 150
103 30t 133
3.43 < t < 4.43 t = 4
x = 304 + 17 = 137
G4.2 On the coordinate plane, the points A(3, 7) and B(8, 14) are reflected about the line y = kx + c,
k
where k and c are constants, their images are C(5, 5) and D(12,10) respectively. If R = , find
c
the value of R.
By the property of reflection, the line y = kx + c is the perpendicular bisector of A, C and B, D.
That is to say, the mid points of A, C and B, D lies on the line y = kx + c
M = mid point of A, C = (4, 6), N = mid point of B, D = (10, 12)
y 6 12 6
By two points form, =
x 4 10 4
1
y = x + 2 k = 1, c = 2, R =
2
G4.3 Given that z = 3 456533 is an integer, find the value of z.
70 = 3 343000 < 3 456533 < 3 512000 = 80
By considering the cube of the unit digit, the only possible answer for z is 77.
G4.4 In Figure 1, ABC is an isosceles triangle, AB = BC = 20 cm and
4
tan BAC = . If the length of radius of the inscribed circle of
3
ABC is r cm, find the value of r.
4 3
BAC = BCA ; sin BAC = , cos BAC = .
5 5
3
AC = 220 cos BAC = 40 = 24, the height of ABC from B = 20 sin BAC = 16
5
Area of ABC = 24 16 = 192 = (20 + 20 + 24 )

1 r
2 2
r=6
147 3
05-06 1 250 2 3 6 4 2006 5 60
Individual 242
6 165 7 0 8 3 9 9 10 5
2
1 2 2 1010 3 4 1 5 59
05-06 4
Group 1
6 0 7 4 8 328 9 7 2 10
3
Individual Events
I1 Let 20 + 300 = x + y , where x and y are rational numbers and w = x2 + y2, find the
value of w. Reference 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
20 + 300 = 5 + 15 + 2 5 15
= ( 5 + 15 )
2
= 5 + 15
x = 5, y = 15.
w = 52 +152 = 250
I2 In Figure 1, a regular hexagon is inscribed in a circle with
circumference 4 m. If the area of the regular is A m2, find the
22
value of A. (Take = )
7
Let the radius be r m.
2 7
2r = 4 r = =
11
7
A = area of 6 equilateral triangles each with side = m
11
1 7 7
= 6 sin 60
2 11 11
147 3
=
121 2
147 3
=
242
1 5
I3 Given that = , find the value of x.
3 28
2+
1
1+
x
3 28
2+ =
1 5
1+
x
3 18
=
1 5
1+
x
1 5
1 + =
x 6
1 1
=
x 6
x = 6
2006
I4 Let A = , find the value of A.
20052005 20052004 20052006
2
Let x = 2005, then 20052005 = 200510001=10001x

20052004 = 20052005 1 = 10001x 1
20052006 = 20052005 + 1 = 10001x + 1,
2006
A=
(10001x ) (10001x 1) (10001x + 1)
2
2006
=
(10001x ) (10001x )2 + 1
2
= 2006
I5 Given that 4 sec2 tan2 7 sec + 1 = 0 and 0 180, find the value of .
4 sec2 (sec2 1) 7 sec + 1 = 0
3 sec2 7 sec + 2 = 0
(3 sec 1) (sec 2) = 0
1
sec = or 2
3
1
cos = 3 (rejected) or
2
= 60
I6 Given that w, x, y and z are positive integers which satisfy the equation w + x + y + z = 12. If
there are W sets of different positive integral solutions of the equation, find the value of W.
1 w 9, keep w fixed, we shall find the number of solutions to x + y + z = 12 w ......(1)
1 x 10 w, keep x fixed, we shall find the number of solutions to y + z = 12 w x ......(2)
1 y 11 w x, keep y fixed, the number of solution to z = 12 w x y is 1
9 10 w 11 w x 9 10 w
Total number of solutions =
w=1 x =1
1 = (11 w x )
y =1 w=1 x =1
9
= [(11 w)(10 w) (1 + 2 + L10 w)]
w=1

9

= (11 w)(10 w) (11 w)(10 w)
1
w=1 2
1 1
( )
9 9
= (11 w)(10 w) = 110 21w + w 2
w=1 2 2 w=1
1 9
= 990 21 45 + 10 19
2 6
45 19 45 22
= 22 21 + = = 165
2 3 2 3
Method 2
The problem is equivalent to: put 12 identical balls into 4 different boxes w, x, y and z. Each
box should have at least one ball to ensure positive integral solution.
Align the 12 balls in a row. There are 11 gaps between the 12 balls. Put 3 sticks into three of
| | |
The three boxes contain 2 balls, 5 balls, 4 balls and 1 ball. w = 2, x = 5, y = 4, z = 1.
11 10 9
The number of ways is C311 = = 165
1 2 3
I7 Given that the number of prime numbers in the sequence 1001, 1001001, 1001001001, .....,
100
{100
{1L100 {1 , ...... is R, find the value of R.
2 2 2
1001 = 71113 which is not a prime

Suppose there are n '1's in 100
{100
{1L100
{1 .
2 2 2
If n is divisible by 3, then the number itself is divisible by 3.
3 6 3(n1)
Otherwise, 100 {100{1L100 {1 =1 + 10 + 10 + ..... + 10
2 2 2
10 3n 1 10 3n 1
= =
10 3 1 999
=
10 1 10 + 10 n + 1
n 2n
( )( )
999
99
12 L 39 10 + 10 + 1
2n n
( )
= n
999
11
12L 31 10 + 10 + 1
2n n
( )
= n
111
Q n is not divisible by 3, 11
12 31 and 111 are relatively prime.
L
n
LHS = 100
{100
{1L100
{1 is an integer
2 2 2
RHS is an integer
10 2 n + 10 n + 1
is an integer 1
111
100
{100 {1L100 {1 = product of two integers
2 2 2
100
{100
{1L100
{1 is not a prime number
2 2 2
there are no primes, R = 0

I8 Let x be the largest integer not greater than x, for example, 2.5 = 2. If
( )
B = log 7 462 + log 2 tan 60 o + 9872 , find the value of B.
B = log (462 + log 3 + 9872 )
7 2
= log (462 + log 1 + 9872 )

7 2
= log (462 + 9872 )

7
99 = 9801 < 9872 < 10000

2
9872 = 99 + a, 0 < a < 1

462 + 9872 = 462 + 99 + a
= 561 + a
= 780 + 1 + a
= 7(711 + 3) + 1 + a
= 7211 + 73 + 1 + a
= 73 + 724 + 73 + 1 + a
73 < 462 + 9872 < 74
(
log7 73 < log 7 462 + 9872 < log7 74 )
(
3 < log 7 462 + 9872 < 4 )
log (462 +
7 9872 ) =3
2006
I9 Given that the units digit of 7 is C, find the value of C.
71 = 7, 72 9 (mod 10), 73 3 (mod 10), 74 1 (mode 10)
72006 = (74)50172 9 mod 10
I10 In Figure 2, ABCD is a square with side length equal to 4 cm.
The line segments PQ and MN intersect at the point O. If the
lengths of PD, NC, BQ and AM are 1 cm and the length of
OQ is x cm, find the value of x.
AP = BM = CQ = DN = 3 cm
PMQN is a rhombus (4 sides equal)
PQ MN, PO = OQ, MO = NO (property of rhombus)
MN = PQ = 4 2 + 2 2 = 20 = 2 5 cm
x= 5
Group Events
G1 Let a, b and c are three prime numbers. If a 2, which is a contradiction.
a=2
By trail and error, b = 3, c = 13 = 22 + 32
6n7 8
zeros
G2 If log log log 100L0 = 1, find the value of n.

6n7 8
zeros
log log 100L 0 =10

( )
log 10 =10
n 10
10n = 10 (10 )
10
n = 1010
3
G3 Given that 0 < < 90 and 1 + sin + sin2 + ..... = . If y = tan , find the value of y.
2
1 3
=
1 sin 2
2 = 3 3 sin
1
sin =
3
1 2
y = tan = =
8 4
G4 Consider the quadratic equation x2 (a 2)x a 1 = 0, where a is a real number. Let and
be the roots of the equation. Find the value of a such that the value of 2 + 2 will be the least.
+ = a 2, = a 1
2 + 2 = ( + )2 2
= (a 2)2 2(a 1)
= a2 4 a + 4 + 2 a + 2
= a2 2 a + 6
= (a 1)2+5
2 + 2 will be the least when (a 1)2 = 0
a=1
G5 Given that the sum of k consecutive positive integers is 2006, find the maximum possible
value of k. (Reference: 2004 HG5)
Let the smallest positive integer be x: x + x + 1 + ..... + x + k 1 = 2006, x > 0
k
[2 x + (k 1)] = 2006 k(2x + k 1) = 41759
2
4 17 59
2x + k 1 = , an integer
k
k is an factor of 41759.
Factors of 4012 are 1, 2, 4, 17, 34, 59, 68, 118, 236, 1003, 2006, 4012
When k = 4m + 2, where m is an integer,
(4m + 2)(2x + 4m + 2 1) = 41759
(2m + 1)(2x + 4m + 1) = 21759
L.H.S. is odd and R.H.S. is even reject 2, 34, 118, 2006
4 17 59
2x + k 1 =
k
4 17 59
>k1
k
4012 > k(k 1)
4012 > k 1
64 > k
Possible values of k = 1, 4, 17, 59 only
When k = 1, 1(2x) = 4012 x = 2006
When k = 4, 4(2x + 3) = 4012 x = 500
When k = 17, 17(2x + 16) = 4012 x + 8 = 118 x = 110
When k = 59, 59(2x + 58) = 41759 x + 29 = 34 x = 5
The maximum possible k = 59
G6 Let a, b, c and d be real numbers such that a2 + b2 = c2 + d2 = 1 and ac + bd = 0. If R = ab+ cd,
find the value of R. (Reference: 2002 HI7, 2009 FI3.3, 2014 HG7)
Let a = sin A, b = cos A, c = cos B, d = sin B
ac + bd = 0
sin A cos B + cos A sin B = 0
sin(A + B) = 0
R = ab + cd
= sin A cos A + cos B sin B
1
= (sin 2A + sin 2B)
2
1
= [2 sin(A + B)cos(A B)] = 0
2
Method 2
There is no need to let the sum = 1.
R2 = R2 02 = (ab + cd)2 (ac + bd)2
= a2b2 + c2d2 a2c2 b2d2
= a2(b2 c2) d2(b2 c2)
R2 = (b2 c2)(a2 d2) LLLL (1)
a2 + b2 = c2 + d2 b2 c2 = d2 a2 LLLL (2)
Sub. (2) into (1): R2 = (d2 a2)(a2 d2) = (a2 d2)2
LHS 0, whereas RHS 0
LHS = RHS = 0
R = ab + cd = 0
G7 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square with perimeter equal to 16 cm,
EAF = 45 and AP EF. If the length of AP is equal to R cm, find
the value of R.
(reference: http://www.hkedcity.net/ihouse/fh7878/Geometry/transform/Q5.pdf)
AB = BC = CD = DA = 4 cm
Let BE = x cm, DF = y cm.
Rotate ABE about A in anti-clockwise direction by 90 D y F
G C
Then ABE ADG; GD = x cm, AG = AE (corr. sides 's)
AE = AE (common side)
P
EAG = 90 ( of rotation)
45 E
GAF = 90 45 = 45 = EAF x
A B
AEF AGF (SAS)
AGD = AEP (corr. s. 's)
ADG = 90 = APE (by rotation)
AD = AB (sides of a square)
ADG APE (AAS)
AP = AD = 4 cm (corr. sides 's)
G8 Given that x and y are real numbers and satisfy the system of the equations
100 64
x + y + x y
=9
80 . If V = x2 + y2, find the value of V.
80
+ =9
x + y x y
100 64 80 80
+ =9= +
x+ y x y x+ y x y
20 16
=
x+ y x y
x+ y x y
= =k
5 4
Let x + y = 5k, x y = 4k.
100 64
+ =9
5k 4 k
20 + 16 = 9k
k=4
x + y = 20, x y = 16
x = 18, y = 2
V = 182 + 22 = 328
G9 In Figure 2, given a rectangular box with dimensions 3 cm,

4 cm, and 7 cm respectively. If the length of the shortest
path on the surface of the box from point X to point Y is
K cm, find the value of K.
Unfold the rectangular box as follow. Note Y1

that the face P is identical to the face Q.
There are 3 possible routes to go from X to 4 cm
P
Y:
XY1 = 32 + (4 + 7 ) cm = 130cm
2
XY2 = 4 2 + (3 + 7 ) cm = 116cm
2
XY3 = 7 2 + (3 + 4) cm = 7 2cm
2
7 cm
The length of the shortest path is 7 2 cm.
3 cm 7 cm X 3 cm
4 cm Q
4 cm
Y2 3 cm
3 cm
Y3
7 cm
G10 Given that x is a positive real number which satisfy the inequality |x 5| |2x + 3| 1, find
the least value of x.
Reference: 2001 HG9 ...... |x 3| + |x 5| = 2.......
Case 1: x 1.5
5 x + 2x + 3 1
x 7
Case 2: 1.5 < x 5
5 x 2x 3 1
1
x
3
1
x5
3
Case 3: 5 < x
x 5 2x 3 1
9 x
5<x
1
Combined solution: x 7 or x
3
1
The least positive value of x = .
3
Individual Events
9
I1 a 1 I2 R I3 S 10 I4 k 1
25
1
b S 1 R 30 r 2
2
1 2
C 10 T 1 T 6 s (= )
2 2
D 2 W 5 P 7 +2 w 9
Group Events
G1 k 1 G2 w 45 G3 r 2006 G4 R 12 3
16 7
B z 13 x (=1.75) S 8
15 4
1 1 1
C s z 30 T
4 4 2
15
a 1 t 14 R (= 3.75) W 2013021
4
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If a is a real number satisfying log2 (x + 3) log2 (x + 1) = 1, find the value of a.
x+3
log2 = log2 2
x +1
x + 3 = 2x + 2
x=1a=1
I1.2 In Figure 1, O is the centre of the circle with radius 1 cm. If the
length of the arc AB is equal to a cm and the area of the shaded A
1 cm
sector OAB is equal to b cm , find the value of b. (Take = 3)
2
O a cm
1 1 1
b = rs = 1 1 = 1 cm
2 2 2 B
Figure 1
I1.3 An interior angle of a regular C-sided polygon is 288b, find the value of C.
Each interior angle = 288b = 144
360 o
Each exterior angle = 36 =
C
C = 10
I1.4 Given that C is a root of the equation kx2 + 2x + 5 = 0, where k is a constant.
If D is another root, find the value of D.
1
100k + 20 + 5 = 0 k =
4
2
C + D = sum of roots =
k
10 + D = 8 D = 2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Given that a, b and c are three numbers not equal to 0 and a : b : c = 6 : 3 : 1.
3b 2
If R = , find the value of R.
2a 2 + bc
3(3k )
2
9
Let a = 6k, b = 3k, c = k, then R = =
2(6k ) + (3k )k 25
2
k+R k + 2R
I2.2 Given that = 0 . If S = , find the value of S.
R 2k + R
9 9
k+ =0k=
25 25
9 18
+
k + 2R 25 25
S= = =1
2k + R 18 9
+
25 25
I2.3 Given that T = sin 50(S + 3 tan 10), find the value of T.
sin 10 o
T = sin 50(1 + 3 )
cos 10 o
=
sin 50 o
cos 10 o
(
cos 10 o + 3 sin 10 o )
2 sin 50 o 1 3
= o
cos 10 o + sin 10 o
cos 10 2 2
=
2 sin 50 o
cos 10 o
(
cos 60 o cos 10 o + sin 60 o sin 10 o )
2 sin 50 o cos 50 o sin 100 o
= = =1
cos 10 o cos10 o
T
y=
I2.4 Given that x0 and y0 are real numbers satisfying the system of equations x .
y = x + T
If W = x0+ y0, find the value of W.
1
y =
x
y = x + 1
1
= x + 1 ..........(*)
x
1 1
= x + 1 or = x + 1
x x
1 = x2 + x or 1 = x2 + x
x2 + x 1 = 0 or x2 x + 1 = 0
1 5
x= or no solution
2
1 5
Check: sub. x = into (*)
2
2
LHS = < 0, RHS > 0 (rejected)
1 5
1+ 5 2 5 +1 1 + 5 1+ 5
When x = ; LHS = = ; RHS = +1 = (accepted)
2 1 + 5 2 2 2
1+ 5 1+ 5 1+ 5
y= W = x0 + y0 = + = 5
2 2 2
Individual Event 3
2x 3 A B
I3.1 Given that 2 = + ,where A and B are constants. If S= A2 + B2, find the value of S
x x x 1 x
2 x 3 Ax + B( x 1)
=
x2 x (x 1)x
A + B = 2, B = 3
A = 1, B = 3
S = (1)2 + 32 = 10
I3.2 In Figure 1, ABCD is an inscribed rectangle, AB = (S 2) cm and
D C
AD = (S 4) cm. If the circumference of the circle is R cm, find the
value of R. (Take = 3)
AB = 8 cm, CD = 6 cm
AC = 10 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
A B
R = 10 = 30
Figure 1
R
I3.3 Given that x and y are integers satisfying the equation xy = 21x + 20y 13.
2
If T = xy, find the value of T.
15xy = 21x + 20y 13
(3x 4)(5y 7) = 15
3x 4 = 1 3x 4 = 3 3 x 4 = 5 3 x 4 = 15 3 x 4 = 1
or or or or or
5 y 7 = 15 5 y 7 = 5 5 y 7 = 3 5y 7 = 1 5 y 7 = 15
3 x 4 = 3 3 x 4 = 5 3 x 4 = 15
or or
5 y 7 = 5 5 y 7 = 3 5 y 7 = 1
For integral solution: 3x 4 = 5, 5y 7 = 3
x = 3, y = 2 T = 32 = 6
I3.4 Let a be the positive root of the equation x2 2x T = 0.
T
If P = 3 + , find the value of P.
T
2+
T
2+
T
2+
a
x2 2x 6 = 0
a =1 + 7
6
a2 2a 6 = 0 a2 = 2a + 6 a = 2 +
a
T 6 T 6 T 6
2+ = 2 + = a 2+ = 2+ = a 2+ =2+ =a
a a T a T a
2+ 2+
a T
2+
a
6 6
P =3 + = 1 + 2 + = 1+ a = 1 + 1 + 7 = 2 + 7
a a
Individual Event 4
k 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
I4.1 Let = 1 + + + + 1 + + + + , find the value of k.
4 2 3 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3
1 1 1 1 1 k 1
Let x = 1 + + , y = 1 + + + , then = x(y 1) y(x 1) = x + y = k = 1
2 3 2 3 4 4 4
I4.2 Let x and y be real numbers satisfying the equation y2 + 4y + 4 + x + y + k = 0.
If r = |xy|, find the value of r.

The equation is equivalent to (y + 2)2 + x + y + k = 0
which is a sum of two non-negative numbers.

y + 2 = 0 and x + y + 1 = 0
y = 2 and x 2 + 1 = 0, x = 1
r = |21| = 2
I4.3 In Figure 1, there are eight positive numbers in series. Starting from the 3rd number, each
1
number is the product of the previous two numbers. Given that the 5th number is and the
r
1
8th number is . If the first number is s, find the value of s.
r4
1 1
s
r r4
Let the 2nd number be a, then other numbers are as follows:

1 1
s a sa sa2 s 2 a3 = s 3 a5 s 5 a8 s8a13=
r r4
1
s 2 a3 = ................. (1)
r
1
s8a13= .............. (2)
r4
(2)(1)4: a = 1
1 1 1
Sub. a = 1 into (1): s2 = = ;s>0s=
r 2 2
Let w = 1 + [10s2] + [10s4] + [10s6] + + [10s2n] + , find the value of w.
1 1 1 1
w = 1 + [10 ] + [10 ] + [10 ] + + [10 n ] +
2 4 8 2
=1+5+2+1+0+0+=9
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that k is a real number. If x2 + 2kx 3k2 can be divisible by x 1, find the greatest value
of k.
By factor theorem, 12 + 2k 3k2 = 0
3k2 2k 1 = 0
(3k + 1)(k 1) = 0
1
k = or 1
3
Greatest value of k = 1
x y
+ =1 1 1
G1.2 Given that x = x0 and y = y0 satisfy the system of equations 3x 5y . If B = + , find the
+ =1 x0 y0
5 3
value of B.
x y x y x x y y
+ = + =1 = x=y
3 5 5 3 3 5 3 5
x x 15 16
Sub. x = y into the first equation: + = 1 x = y = B =
3 5 8 15
G1.3 Given that x = 2 + 3 is a root of the equation x2 (tan + cot )x + 1 = 0.
If C = sin cos , find the value of C.
Let the other root be y, (2 + 3 )y = product of roots = 1 y = 2 3
tan + cot = sum of roots = 2 + 3 + 2 3 = 4
sin cos 1 1
+ =4 = 4 C = sin cos =
cos sin sin cos 4
G1.4 Let a be an integer. If the inequality |x + 1| < a 1.5 has no integral solution, find the greatest
value of a.
Q |x+ 1| 0, In order that the equation has no integral solution, it is sufficient that a 1.5 < 0
a < 1.5
Greatest integral value of a = 1
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, PRS is a straight line, PQ = PR = QS and Q
QPR = 30. If RQS = w, find the value of w.

QPR = QSP = 30 (base s isos. )
30
PQS = 120 (s sum of ) P S
R
PQR=PRQ=(18030)2 = 75 (s sum of isos. )
Figure 1
RQS = 120 75 = 45
G2.2 Let f (x) = px7 + qx3 + rx 5, where p, q and r are real numbers.
If f (6) = 3 and z = f (6) Find the value of z. (Reference: 1995 FI1.3)
f (6) = 3 p67 q63 6r 5 = 3
f (6) = p67 + q63 + 6r 5 = (p67 q63 6r 5) 10 = 3 10 = 13
1
20 n
G2.3 If n 0 and s = 2 n + 4 , find the value of s.
2 + 2 2n+2
1 1
20 n 20 n 1
s = 2n
= 2n
=
16 2 + 4 2 20 2 4
2n
G2.4 Given that x and y are positive integers and x + y + xy = 54. If t = x + y, find the value of t.
1 + x + y + xy = 55
(1 + x)(1 + y) = 55
1 + x = 5, 1 + y = 11 or 1 + x = 11, 1 + y = 5
x = 4, y = 10 or x = 10, y = 4
t = 14
Group Event 3
8 2
G3.1 Given that r = 2006 , find the value of r.
2
It is easy to show that r = 2006.
G3.2 Given that 6x+y = 36 and 6x+5y = 216, find the value of x.
x + y = 2 ............. (1)
x + 5y = 3 ........... (2)
7
5(1) (2): 4x = 7 x =
4
G3.3 Given that tan x + tan y + 1 = cot x + cot y = 6. If z = tan(x + y), find the value of z.
tan y + tan x
tan x + tan y + 1 = =6
tan x tan y
5
tan x + tan y = 5; tan x tan y =
6
tan x + tan y 5
tan(x + y) = = = 30
1 tan x tan y 1 56
G3.4 In Figure 1, ABCD is a rectangle, F is the midpoint of CD and A D

BE : EC = 1 : 3. If the area of the rectangle ABCD is 12 cm2 and
the area of BEFD is R cm2, find the value of R. F
Area of BCD = 6 cm 2
B C
3 1 9 E
Area of CEF = 6 cm2 = cm2 Figure 1
4 2 4
9 15
Area of BEFD = (6 ) cm2 = cm2
4 4
Group Event 4
G4.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a parallelogram, BE CD, BF AD, 2 cm
CE = 2 cm, DF = 1 cm and EBF = 60. 1 cm

D E C
If the area of the parallelogram ABCD is R cm2, F

60
EDF = 360 90 90 60 = 120 (s sum of polygon)
BAD = BCD = 180 120 = 60 (int. s //-lines) A B
Figure 1
2
BC = cm = 4 cm = AD
cos 60 o
BE = 2 tan 60 = 2 3 cm
AF = (4 1) cm = 3 cm
3
AB = cm = 6 cm
cos 60 o
Area of ABCD = AB BE = 62 3 cm2 = 12 3 cm2
2 2
1 1
G4.2 Given that a and b are positive real numbers and a + b = 2. If S = a + + b + , find
a b
the minimum value S.
( )2
a b 0 a + b 2 ab 0 1 ab 1 ab ............. (1)
a + b2 = (a + b)2 2ab = 4 2ab 4 2 = 2 ...............(2)
2
1 1
1 2 2 1 ......... (3)
ab a b
2 2
1 1 1 1
S = a + + b + = a2 + b2 + 2 + 2 + 4
a b a b
a +b
2 2
= a2 + b2 + 2 2 + 4
a b
= (a 2 + b 2 )1 + 2 2 + 4
1
a b
2(1 + 1) + 4 = 8 (by (2) and (3))
1 1
G4.3 Let 2x = 7y = 196. If T = + , find the value of T.
x y
Reference: 2001 HI1, 2003 FG2.2, 2004 FG4.3, 2005 HI9
x log 2 = y log 7 = log 196
log196 log196
x= ,y=
log 2 log 7
1 1 log 2 + log 7 log 14 1
T= + = = =
x y log196 log14 2 2
Method 2 (provided by Denny)
1 1
2 = 196 x , 7 = 196 y
1 1 1 1
+
27 = 14 = 196 196 = 196
x y x y
1 1 1
+ =
x y 2
G4.4 If W = 20062 20052 + 20042 20032 + + 42 32 + 22 12, find the value of W.
W = (2006 + 2005)(20062005) + (2004 + 2003)(20042003) + + (4+3)(43) + (2+1)(21)
= 2006 + 2005 + 2004 + + 4 + 3 + 2 + 1
=
2006
(2006 + 1) = 10032007 = 2013021
2
Individual Events (Remark: The Individual Events are interchanged with Group Events)
I1 a 40 I2 a 7 I3 a 1 I4 a 1
*b 1
b 70 b 5 see the 0.0625 or b 9
remark 16
1
C 4 C 35 c 0.5 or c 20
2
d *20 d 6 d 6 d 6
see the remark
Group Events (Remark: The Group Events are interchanged with Individual Events)
7
G1 a 9 G2 a 15 G3 A G4 a 3
4
3 1
b 125 b 999985 b or b 2
3 3
c 5 c 4 c 7 c 6
1 509 100
d 2 or 2.5 d d d 171
2 256 11
Individual Event 1
I1.1 There are a camels in a zoo. The number of one-hump camels exceeds that of two-hump
camels by 10. If there have 55 humps altogether, find the value of a.
Suppose there are x one-hump camels, y two-hump camels.
x y = 10 ........... (1)
x + 2y = 55 ......... (2)
(2) (1) 3y = 45 y = 15
sub. y = 15 into (1): x 15 = 10 x = 25
a = x + y = 25 + 15 = 40
I1.2 If LCM(a, b) = 280 and HCF(a, b) = 10, find the value of b.

HCF LCM = ab
2800 = 40b
b = 70
I1.3 Let C be a positive integer less than b . If b is divided by C, the remainder is 2; when divided
by C + 2, the remainder is C, find the value of C.
C < 70 C 8 ............(1)
70 = mC + 2 ......................(2)
70 = n(C + 2) + C .............(3)
From (2), mC = 68 Q2 < C 8 , C = 4 (C 1, 2, otherwise remainder > divisor !!!)
I1.4 A regular 2C-sided polygon has d diagonals, find the value of d.

n(n 3)
The number of diagonals of a convex n-sided polygon is .
2
85
d= = 20
2
Remark: The following note was put at the end of the original question:
()
(NB: a diagonal is a straight line joining two vertices not on the same side.)
The note is very confusing. As the definition of diagonal is well known, there is no need to
add this note.
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Mr. Chan has 8 sons and a daughters. Each of his sons has 8 sons and a daughters. Each of his
daughters has a sons and 8 daughters. It is known that the number of his grand sons is one
more than the number of his grand daughters and a is a prime number, find the value of a.
Grandsons = 88 + aa = a2 + 64
Grand daughters = 8a + a8 = 16a
a2 + 64 = 16a + 1
a2 16a + 63 = 0
(a 7)(a 9) = 0
a = 7 or a = 9
a is a prime number, a = 7
a 3
I2.2 Let = 2 + b + 3 2 b . Find the value of b.
7
1= 3 2 + b + 3 2 b
3
1 = 3
2 + b + 3 2 b

1 = 2+ b +3 2+ b ( ) (2 b ) + 3(2 + b ) (2 b )
2
3
1
3
1
3
2
3
+2 b
1 = 4 + 3 (4 b ) 3
1
(2 + b ) + 3(4 b) (2 b )
1
3 1
3
1
3
0 = 3 + 3 (4 b ) 3 (2 + b ) + (2 b )
1 1 1
3 3

0 = 1 + (4 b ) 3
1
(4 b )
1
= 1 3
4 b = 1
b=5
I2.3 In Figure 1, find the value of C.
6b+ 5b+ C + C + (C + 20) = 180

115 + 3C + 20 = 180
C = 35
I2.4 Given that P1 , P2 , K , Pd are d consecutive prime numbers.

If P1 + P2 + K + Pd 2 = Pd 1 + Pd = C + 1, find the value of d.
By trial and error 5 + 7 + 11 + 13 = 17 + 19 = 36, d = 6.
Individual Event 3
1 1

x +1
I3.1 Given that a is a positive real root of the equation 2 =8 x 3
. Find the value of a.
1 1 3
1 3
x +1 x +1
2 = 8 2 = 2 x x + 1 = 1
x 3
x
2
x + 2x 3 = 0
(x + 3)(x 1) =0
x = 3 or 1, a = 1 is a real positive root.
I3.2 The largest area of the rectangle with perimeter a meter is b square meter, find the value of b.
The perimeter = 1 m.
Let the length of the rectangle be x m, the width is (1 2 x ) m.
1
2
1 1
2
1
Its area is (1 2 x ) x m2 = x 2 x m2 = x + m2.
1
2 2 4 16
1
b = = 0.0625
16
Remark: The original version is: The area of the largest rectangle
It is ambiguous to define the largest rectangle. It should be changed to The largest area of the
rectangle LL
I3.3 If c = (1234 3 1232 (1234 2 + 2472)) b , find the value of c.

1
c = (1234 3 1232 (1234 2 + 2472)) , let x = 1234
16
= {
1 3
16
[ ]}
x ( x 2 ) x 2 + 2( x + 2 ) = {1
16
(
x 3 (x 2) x 2 + 2 x + 4 )}
= {x 3 (x 3 8)}= =
1 8 1
16 16 2
1 1 1 8
I3.4 If + +L+ = , find the value of d.
(c + 1)(c + 2) (c + 2)(c + 3) (c + d )(c + d + 1) 15
1 1 1 8
+ +L+ =
(c + 1)(c + 2) (c + 2)(c + 3) (c + d )(c + d + 1) 15
1 1 1 1 1 1 8
+ +L+ =
c +1 c + 2 c + 2 c + 3 c + d c + d + 1 15
1 1 8 1 1 8
= 1 1 =
c + 1 c + d + 1 15 2 +1 2 + d +1 15
2 8 2
=
3 15 3 + 2d
2 2
=
15 3 + 2d
3 + 2d = 15
d=6
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If A 2 + B 2 + C 2 = AB + BC + CA = 3 and a = A 2 , find the value of a.
A 2 + B 2 + C 2 = AB + BC + CA = 3 and a = A 2 , find the value of a.
[ ]
2 A 2 + B 2 + C 2 ( AB + BC + CA) = 6 6 = 0
A2 2AB + B2 + B2 2BC + C2 + C2 2AC + A2 = 0
(A B)2 + (B C)2 + (C A)2 = 0 (sum of three non-negative numbers = 0)
AB=BC=CA=0
A=B=C=1
a = A2 = B2 = C2 = 1
I4.2 Given that n and b are integers satisfying the equation 29n + 42b = a. If 5 < b < 10, find the
value b. Method 2
42 = 29 + 13 13 = 42 29 .........(1) b = 6, 7, 8, 9.
29 = 132 + 3 3 = 29 132 .........(2) By trial and error,
13 = 34 + 1 1 = 13 34 .........(3) when b = 9,
Sub. (1) into (2): 3 = 29 (42 29)2 = 293 422 ......(4) 29n + 429 = 1
Sub. (1), (4) into (3) 1 = 42 29 (293 422)4 n = 13
1 = 29(13) + 429 b = 9 satisfies the equation.
n = 13, b = 9
3 5+ 7 c 21 18 15 2 35 + b
I4.3 If = , find the value of c.
3+ 5+ 7 59
3 5 + 7 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
3+ 5+ 7 59
3 + 7 5 3 + 7 5 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
3+ 7+ 5 3+ 7 5 59
( )
2
(
3 + 7 2 5 3 + 7 +5 ) =
c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
( 3+ 7) 5
2
59
3 + 7 + 2 21 2 15 2 35 + 5 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
3 + 7 + 2 21 5 59
15 + 2 21 2 15 2 35 2 21 5 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
5 + 2 21 2 21 5 59
30 21 + 84 12 35 28 15 75 10 21 + 10 15 + 10 35 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
4 21 25 59
20 21 18 15 2 35 + 9 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9
=
59 59
c = 20
( ) ( )(
Method 2 Cross multiplying 59 3 5 + 7 = 3 + 5 + 7 c 21 18 15 2 35 + 9 )
Compare coefficient of 3 : 9 90 + 7c = 59 c = 20
I4.4 If c has d positive factors, find the value of d.

Reference 1993 HI8, 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2002 FG4.1
The positive factors of 20 are 1, 2, 4, 5, 10 and 20.
d=6
Group Event 1
G1.1 Suppose there are a numbers between 1 and 200 that can be divisible by 3 and 7, find the
value of a.
The number which can be divisible be 3 and 7 are multiples of 21. 20021 = 9.5, a = 9
G1.2 Let p and q be prime numbers that are the two distinct roots of the equation x 2 13 x + R = 0 ,
where R is a real number. If b = p 2 + q 2 , find the value of b.
x 2 13 x + R = 0 , roots p and q are prime numbers. p + q = 13, pq = R
The sum of two prime numbers is 13, so one is odd and the other is even, p = 2, q = 11
b = p2 + q2 = 22 + 112 = 125
1 2 cos sin
G1.3 Given that tan = . If c = , find the value of c.
2 sin + cos
1
2+
1 2 cos sin 2 tan 2 =5
tan = . c = = =
2 sin + cos tan + 1 1
+1
2
1 1
G1.4 Let r and s be the two distinct real roots of the equation 2 x 2 + 2 3 x + = 1 . If
x x
d = r + s , find the value of d.
1 1 1 1
2 x 2 + 2 3 x + = 1 , real roots r, s. Let t = x + , then x 2 + 2 = t2 2.
x x x x
2(t2 2) 3t = 1
2t 2 3t 5 = 0
(2t 5)(t + 1) = 0
5
t= or 1
2
1 5 1
x+ = or x + = 1
x 2 x
1 1 5
x = 2 or r = 2, s = d = r + s =
2 2 2
Group Event 2
G2.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a rectangle, AB = 6 cm and BC =

10 cm. M and N are the midpoints of AB and DC
respectively. If the area of the shaded region is a cm2,
find the value of a.
1 1
a = area of rectangle = 6 10 = 15
4 4
G2.2 Let b = 89 + 899 + 8999 + 89999 + 899999 , find the value of b.

b = 89 + 899 + 8999 + 89999 + 899999
= (90 1)+(900 1)+ (9000 1) + (90000 1) + (900000 1)
= 999990 5 = 999985
1
x+
G2.3 Given that 2x + 5y = 3. If c = 4 2 32 y , find the value of c.
1
x+
2x + 5y = 3. c = 4 2 32 y = 2 2 x +1 2 5 y = 2 2 x +5 y +1 = 2 3+1 = 4
1 2 3 4 10
G2.4 Let d = + + + + K + 10 , find the value of d.
2 4 8 16 2
1 2 3 4 10 3 4 5 10
d= + + + + K + 10 , 2d = 1 + 1 + + + + K + 9
2 4 8 16 2 4 8 16 2
3 4 5 10 1 2 3 4 10
2d d = 1 + 1 + + + + K + 9 + + + + K + 10
4 8 16 2 2 4 8 16 2
1 3 2 4 3 5 4 10 9 10
= 1 + (1 ) + ( ) + ( ) + ( ) + ........ + ( 9 9 ) 10
2 4 4 8 8 16 16 2 2 2
1
1
1 1 1 1 1 10 210 5
d=1+ + + + + .......... + 9 =
2 4 8 16 2 1024 1 512
1
2
1023 5 1018 509
= = =
512 512 512 256
Group Event 3
3 7
G3.1 Let 0 < < 45. If sin cos = and A = sin , find the value of A.
16
3 7 7 3
Method 1 2sin cos = t= or (rejected)
8 3 7
3 7 7
sin 2 =
8 tan =
3
2
3 7 7
cos 2 = 1 sin 2 = 1
2 A = sin =
8 4
Method 3
1 1
= 64 63 = 3 7 3 7
8 8 sin cos = =
16 4 4
1 7
1 2 sin2 = sin = 3 7 7 3
8 4 sin = , cos = or sin = , cos =
4 4 4 4
3 7
Method 2 2 sin cos = , 7
8 Q 0 < < 45, sin < cos , sin =
4
3 7
sin 2 = tan 2 = 3 7
8
2t
t = tan , tan 2 = =3 7 4
1 t2 7
2t = 3 7 3 7 t2
3 7 t2 + 2t 3 7 = 0
(3t 7 )( 7 t + 3) = 0 3
G3.2 In figure 1, C lies on AD, AB = BD = 1 cm, ABC = 90 and CBD = 30 .
If CD = b cm, find the value of b.
AB = BD = 1 cm, ABD is isosceles.
BAD = BDA = (180 90 30) 2 = 30 (s sum of isosceles )
BCD is also isosceles.
1
CD = b cm = BC = AB tan BAD = 1 tan 30 cm = cm
3
G3.3 In Figure 2, a rectangle intersects a

circle at points B, C, E and F. Given
that AB = 4 cm, BC = 5 cm and
DE = 3 cm. If EF = c cm, find the
value of c.
AB = 4 cm, BC = 5 cm and DE = 3 cm. EF = c cm B N C

A 4
Draw BG DF, CH DF
2.5 2.5
DG = AB = 4 cm, GH = BC = 5 cm
D 3 E G M H F
EG = DG DE = 4 cm 3 cm = 1cm
Let M be the foot of perpendicular of O on EF
and produce OM to N on BC. O
ON BC (corr. s AC // DF)
BN = NC = 2.5 cm ( from centre bisect chord)
MF = EM ( from centre bisect chords)
= EG+GM = 1 cm+BN = 1cm+ 2.5cm = 3.5 cm
EF = 2EM = 7 cm
G3.4 Let x and y be two positive numbers that are inversely proportional to each other. If x is
increased by 10 %, y will be decreased by d %, find the value of d.
x y = k, x1 = 1.1 x
x1y1 = xy 1.1xy1 = xy
10 y y 1011y 100 100
y1 = , Percentage decrease = 100% = %, d =
11 y 11 11
Group Event 4
G4.1 If a = log 1 0.125 , find the value of a.
2
1
log 3
a = log 1 0.125 =
log 0.125
= 8 = log 2 = 3 log 2 = 3
1 1 log 2 1 log 2
2 log log
2 2
G4.2 Suppose there are b distinct solutions of the equation x 2 x + 1 = 3 , find the value of b.
Reference: 2002 FG.4.3, 2009 HG9, 2012 FG4.2
x 2x + 1 = 3
x |2x + 1| = 3 or x |2x + 1| = 3
x 3 = |2x + 1| or x + 3 = |2x + 1|
x 3 = 2x + 1 or 3 x = 2x + 1 or x + 3 = 2x + 1 or 2x + 1 = x 3
2 4
x = 4 or or 2 or
3 3
2
Check: when x = 4 or , x 3 = |2x + 1| 0, no solution
3
4
When x = 2 or , x + 3 = |2x + 1| 0, accepted
3
There are 2 real solutions.
G4.3 If c = 2 3 3 1.5 6 12 , find the value of c.
c = 2 3 3 1.5 6 12 = 2 3 2 (2 2 3) 6
1
1
3 3 1
2
1 1 + 2 1
+1+1
= 2 3 6 3 2 3 6 = 23 = 6
G4.4 Given that f1 = 0, f2 = 1, and for any positive integer n 3, fn = fn1 + 2fn2. If d = f10, find the
value of d.
The characteristic equation: x2 = x + 2 x2 x 2 = 0 (x + 1)(x 2) = 0 x = 1 or 2
fn = A(1)n + B2n, n = 1, 2, 3, LLL
f1 = A + 2B = 0 LLL (1)
f2 = A + 4B = 1 LLL(2)
1
(1) + (2) 6B = 1, B =
6
1 1
Sub. into (1): A + = 0, A =
3 3
1 1 1 1 513
fn = (1)n + 2n, d = f10 = + 1024 = = 171
3 6 3 6 3
Method 2: f1 = 0, f2 = 1
f3 = f2 + 2f1 = 1 + 0 = 1; f4 = f3 + 2f2 = 1 + 2 = 3
f5 = f4 + 2f3 = 3 + 21 = 5; f6 = f5 + 2f4 = 5 + 23 = 11
f7 = f6 + 2f5 = 11 + 25 = 21; f8 = f7 + 2f6 = 21 + 211 = 43
f9 = f8 + 2f7 = 43 + 221 = 85; f10 = f9 + 2f8 = 85 + 243 = 171 = d
http://twg.hkcampus.net/~twg-htw Page 8
1 2009010 2 7 3 45 4 700 5 6
03-04
3 19
Individual 6 12.5 7 6 8 9 12 10
16 4
1 2475 2 1 3 6 4 32 5 5
03-04
1 5
Group 6 500 7 34.56 8 9 10 10
6 3
Individual Events
I1 Let A = 12 22 + 32 42 + .... + 20032 20042, find the value of A.
Reference: 1997 HI5, 2002 FG2.3, 2015 FI3.2, 2015 FG4.1
A = (12 22) + (32 42) + .... + (20032 20042)
= 3711 ..... 4007, this is an arithmetic series, a= 3, l = 4007=a+(n1)(4), n =1002
3 4007
= 1002 = 2009010
2
I2 If 2003 B 2003 , C is the unit digit of B, find the value of C.
B = 20032003; 31 = 3, 32 = 9, 33 = 27, 34 = 81, 35 = 243; the unit digit repeats for every
multiples of 4. 20032003 = 20034500+3; the unit digit is 7; C = 7.
I3 If x + y + z = 10, x2 + y2 + z2 = 10 and xy + yz + zx = m, find the value of m.
(x + y + z)2 = 102 x2 + y2 + z2 + 2(xy + yz + zx) = 100 10 + 2m = 100 m = 45
I4 Arrange the natural numbers in the following order. In this arrangement, 9 is in the row 3 and
the column 2. If the number 2003 is in the row x and the column y, find the value of xy.
1 2 4 7 11 16 ...
3 5 8 12 17 ...
6 9 13 18 ...
10 14 19 ...
15 20 ...
21 ...
Consider the integers in the first column of each row: 1, 3, 6, 10, ...
They are equivalent to 1, 1 + 2, 1 + 2 + 3, 1 + 2 + 3 + 4, ...
nn 1
The first integer in the nth row = 1+ 2 + 3 + ... + n =
2
nn 1
< 2003 n(n + 1) < 4006
2
6263 = 3906, 6364 = 4032
The greatest possible n = 62
3906 2 = 1953
The 63rd element of the first row = 1954
The 62nd element of the second row = 1955, ......... and so on.
2003 = 1953 + 50; 63 50 + 1 = 14
The 14th element of the 50th row is 2003; x = 50, y = 14
xy = 5014 = 700
I5 Let E = 12 6 3 12 6 3 , find the value of E.
Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
12 6 3 = 9 3 2 9 3 = a b 2 ab = a b = 3 3
12 6 3 = 9 3 2 9 3 = a b 2 ab = a b = 3 3
12 6 3 12 6 3 = 3 3 3 3 = 6
I6 In the figure, O is the centre of the bigger semicircle

with radius 10 cm, OB is the diameter of the smaller
semicircle and C is the midpoint of arc OB and it lies
on the segment OA. Let the area of the shaded region
be K cm2, find the value of K. (Take = 3)
Shaded area = area of sector OAB area of OCB
1 1
= 10 2 10 5 = 12.5
2 4 2
I7 In the figure, let the shaded area formed by the three straight lines
y = x + 3, y = x + 1 and y = 5x + 19 be R, find the value of R.
Intersection points are A(1, 2), B(3,4), C(4, 1).
CAB = 90
1
Area = 8 18 6 sq.unit
2
2
I8 If t = sin 4 cos 2 , find the value of t.
6 6
2
t = sin 4 cos 2
6 6
4 2
1 1
=
2 2
1 1
=
16 4
3
=
16
I9 In the figure, C lies on AE, ABC and CDE are
equilateral triangles, F and G are the mid-points of
BC and DE respectively. If the area of ABC is
24 cm2, the area of CDE is 60 cm2, and the area of
AFG is Q cm2, find the value of Q.
FAC = GCE = 30
AF // CG (corr. s eq.)
Area of AFG = Area of ACF = 12 cm2
(They have the same bases AF and the same height)
I10 If and are the roots of the quadratic equation 4x2 10x + 3 = 0 and k = 2 + 2,
k = 2 + 2
= ( + )2 2
2
5 3
= 2
2 4
19
=
4
Group Events
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 1 2 99
G1 If x ,
2 3 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 100 100 100
1 2 3 4 99 100
x = = 99 = 2475
2 2 2 2 2 4
G2 If z is the positive root of the equation 64x 136x + 69x = 0, find the value of z.
6(4x + 9x) = 136x
x=1
G3 If there are at most k mutually non-congruent isosceles triangles whose perimeter is 25cm and
the lengths of the three sides are positive integers when expressed in cm, find the value of k.
Possible triangles are {7,7,11}, {8,8,9}, {9,9,7}, {10,10,5}, {11,11,3}, {12,12,1}
k=6
G4 Given that a, b are positive real numbers satisfying a3 = 2004 and b2 = 2004. If the number of
integers x that satisfy the inequality a < x < b is h, find the value of h.
123 = 1728, 442 = 1976
a3 = 2004 12 < a < 13; b2 = 2004 44 1), find the least value of R.
Let the smallest positive integer be x. (Reference: 2006 HG5)
x + (x + 1) + ... + (x + R 1) = 1000
2 x R 1 1000
R
2
2000
R(2x + R 1) = 2000 2x + R 1 = , which is an integer.
R
Possible R are: 1,2,4,5,8,10,16,20,25,40,50,80,100,125,250,400,500,1000,2000.
When R = 4m + 2, where m is an integer.
(4m + 2)(2x + 4m + 1) = 2000 (2m + 1)(2x + 4m + 1) = 1000
L.H.S. is odd, R.H.S. is even reject 2, 10, 50, 250.
When R = 4m, where m is an integer.
4m(2x + 4m 1) = 2000 m(2x + 4m 1) = 500 = 4125 m is a multiple of 4
R = multiple of 16 reject 4, 8, 20, 40, 100, 500, 1000
2000
2x + R 1 = > R 1 2000 > R(R 1) 2000 > R 1 45 > R
R
The possible values of R are 1, 5, 16, 25.
When R = 1, 1(2x) = 2000 x = 1000
When R = 5, 5(2x + 4) = 2000 x = 198
When R = 16, 16(2x + 15) = 2000 x = 55
When R = 25, 25(2x + 24) = 2000 x = 28
The least value of R > 1 is 5, x = 198.
198 + 199 + 200 + 201 + 202 = 1000
G6 If a, b and c are positive integers such that abc + ab + bc + ac + a + b + c = 2003, find the
least value of abc.
(a + 1)(b + 1)(c + 1) = 2004 = 22 3 167
abc is the least when the difference between a, b and c are the greatest.
a + 1 = 2, b + 1 = 2, c + 1 = 501
a = 1, b = 1, c = 500
abc = 500
G7 In the figure, ABCD is a trapezium, the segments AB and CD are both perpendicular to BC
and the diagonals AC and BD intersect at X. If AB = 9 cm, BC = 12 cm and CD = 16 cm, and
the area of BXC is W cm2, find the value of W.
Reference: 1993 HI2, 1997 HG3, 2000 FI2.2, 2002 FI1.3, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
ABX ~ CDX
AX : CX = AB : CD = 9 : 16
SABX : SCDX = 92 : 162 = 81 : 256
Let SABX = 81y, SCDX = 256y
Let AX = 9t, CX = 16t ( ABX ~ CDX)
ABX and BCX have the same height.
16t 16
SBCX = SABX = 81 y 144 y
9t 9
SABC = SABX + SBCX
9 12
= 81y + 144y
2
6
y
25
6
SBCX = 144y = 144 = 34.56
25
G8 Let y = log1400 2 + log1400 3 5 + log1400 6 7 , find the value of y.
log 2 3 5 6 7 12 log 2 13 log 5 16 log 7 3 log 2 2 log 5 log 7
y = =
log1400 log1400 6 log1400
log 8 log 25 log 7 log2 4 25 7 log1400 1
y= = = =
6 log1400 6 log1400 6 log1400 6
G9 In the figure, ABC is an isosceles triangle with AB = AC and ABC = 80. If P is a point on
the AB such that AP = BC, ACP = k, find the value of k.
Reference:, 2010 HG10 A
ACB = 80 = ACB (base s isos. )
BPC = (20 + k) (ext. of APC) P
AP CP
(1) (sine rule on ACP)
sin k sin 20
BC CP
(2) (sine rule on BCP)
sin 20 k sin 80

80
sin 20 k

sin 80 cos10 1
(1) (2): =
=
sin k
sin 20 2 sin 10 cos10 2 sin 10

B C
2 sin(20 + k) sin 10 = sin k
cos(10 + k) cos(30 + k) = sin k
cos(10 + k) = sin(60 k) + sin k
cos(10 + k) = 2 sin 30 cos(30 k)
cos(10 + k) = cos(30 k)
10 + k = 30 k
k = 10
Method 2
Rotate A 60 in anti-clockwise direction about P as shown. A
APQ is an equilateral triangle. Join QC.
ACB = 80 = ACB (base s isos. ) Q
QAP = 60 = AQP (s of an equilateral ) P
QAC = 60 + 20 = 80 = ACB
QA = AP = BC (given)
AC = AC (common)
ACB CAQ (S.A.S.)
AQC = ABC = 80 (corr. s s)
CQP = 80 60 = 20 = CAP
CP = CP (common)
80
AP = QP (by construction)
APC QPC (S.S.S.)
ACQ = BAC = 20 (corr. s ACB CAQ) B C
ACP = QCP = 10 (corr. s APC QPC)
G10 Suppose P(a, b) is a point on the straight line x y + 1 = 0 such that the sum of the distance
between P and the point A(1,0) and the distance between P and the point B(3,0) is the least,
find the value of a + b.
Regard x y + 1 = 0 as mirror. 4.0
y
C(1,2) is the mirror image of A(1,0). x-y+1=0

Sum of distance is the least 3.0
P(a, b) lies on BC. C(-1,2)

2.0
P(a, b) lies on x y + 1 = 0
b=a+1
P(a,b)
1.0
mPB mBC
x
a 1 2 -4.0 -3.0 -2.0 -1.0 1.0
A(1,0) 2.0 3.0
B(3,0) 4.0 5.

a 3 4 -1.0
2a 2 = a 3
-2.0
1 4
a , b
3 3 -3.0
5
a+b= -4.0
3
Individual Events
I1 a 6 I2 P *2 I3 a 2 I4 a 2 IS P 84
see the remark
b 2+4 2 Q 6 b 9 b 11 Q 8
1 3
c 7 R 56 c c 462 R
24 4
7
d 11 S 2352 d d *334 S 1+ 2
18 see the remark
Group Events
G1 a 47 G2 a 2 G3 a 10 G4 P 500 GS a 16
b 101 b 4.5 b 0 Q 15 b 1
1
c 43 c 15 c 2005 R c 12
2
d 0 d 1 d 2005 S 1 d 9
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Given that there are a positive integers less than 200 and each of them has exactly three
positive factors, find the value of a.
If x = rs, where r and s are positive integers, then the positive factors of x may be 1, r, s and x.
In order to have exactly three positive factors, r = s = a prime number.
Possible x = 4, 9, 25, 49, 121, 169. a = 6.
I1.2 If a copies of a right-angled isosceles triangle with hypotenuse 2 cm can be assembled to
form a trapezium with perimeter equal to b cm, find the least possible value of b. (give the
answer in surd form).
or
The perimeter = 6 + 2 2 8.8 or 2 + 4 2 7.7

The least possible value of b = 2 + 4 2
4
I1.3 If sin(c2 3c + 17) = , where 0 < c2 3c + 17 < 90 and c > 0, find the value of c.
b2
4 1
sin(c2 3c + 17) =
24 2 2 2
2
c 3c + 17 = 45
c2 3c 28 = 0
(c 7)(c + 4) = 0
c = 7 or 4 (rejected)
I1.4 Given that the difference between two 3-digit numbers xyz and zyx is 700 c, where x > z.
If d is the greatest value of x + z, find the value of d.
xyz zyx = 700 c
100x + 10y + z (100z + 10y + x) = 700 7
99x 99z = 693
xz=7
Possible answers: x = 8, z = 1 or x = 9, z = 2
d is the greatest value of x + z = 9 + 2 = 11
Individual Event 2
I2.1 In Figure 1, ABCD is a square, M is the mid-point of AD and N is the
mid-point of MD. If CBN : MBA = P : 1, find the value of P.
Let ABM = , CBM = P. Let AB = 4, AM = 2, MN = 1 = ND.
1
tan
2
2 tan 2 12 4
tan 2 tan P , P = 2
1 tan
2
1
1 2
2
3
I2.2 Given that ABCD is a rhombus on a Cartesian plane, and the co-ordinates of its vertices are
A(0, 0), B(P, 1), C(u, v) and D(1, P) respectively. If u + v = Q, find the value of Q.
ABCD is a rhombus, It is also a parallelogram
By the property of parallelogram, the diagonals bisect each other
Mid point of B, D = mid point of AC
1 2 2 1 0 u 0 v
, ,
2 2 2 2
u = 3, v = 3 Q = u + v = 6
I2.3 If 1 + (1 + 2) + (1 + 2 + 3) + + (1 + 2 + 3 + + Q) = R, find the value of R.
R = 1 + (1 + 2) + (1 + 2 + 3) + + (1 + 2 + 3 + + 6)
R = 1 + 3 + 6 + 10 + 15 + 21 = 56
I2.4 In the figure, EBC is an equilateral triangle, and A, D lie on EB E
and EC respectively. Given that AD//BC, AB = CD = R and AC
BD. If the area of the trapezium ABCD is S, find the value of S. A D
ABC = BCD = 60, AC intersects BD at J, AC BD. x x
J
ACD DBA (S.A.S.) 56 56
AC = BD (corr. sides, s) y y
JBC = 60 ABD = JCB
B C
JBC = JCB = 45 E
BJ = CJ = y, AJ = AC y = BD y = DJ = x
JAD = JDA = 45, ADC = 120 A D
56 x y
Apply sine formula on ACD, J
sin 45 sin 120 56 56
x + y = 28 6 , area = x y 2 sin 90 7846 2352

1 1
28 3
2 2
Method 2 EBC = 60 = ECB B 28 C
F G 28
Draw AF BC and DG BC, cutting BC at F and G.
BF = CG = 56 cos 60 = 28
AF = DG = 56 sin 60 = 28 3
AC intersects BD at J, AC BD.
ACD DBA (S.A.S.)
JBC = 60 ABD = JCB
JBC = JCB = 45
CF = AF cot 45 = 28 3
FG = CF CG = 28 3 1= AD
Area of the trapezium ABCD = S =

28 3 1 2 28 2

28 3 = 2352
2
Individual Event 3
1 1 2
I3.1 Let x1 and x3.If a is the real root of the equation 2 ,find the value of a
x 1 x 3 x 1
1 2 1 1 2 x 1
2
x 3 x 1 x 1 x 3 x 1 x 1
1 1 x 1 1

x 3 x 1 x 1 x3 x 1
x +1 = x 3 x = 2 = a
a 1
I3.2 If b > 1f (b) = and g(b) = 1 + . If b satisfies the equation
log 2 b log 3 b
|f(b) g(b)| + f(b) + g(b) = 3, find the value of b.
Similar question: 2007 HI9
2 log 2 log 3 2 log 2 log 3 log 4 3b log 12 4 b2
1 1 3 2 log log
log b log b log b log b log b log b 3b 12
4 b2
log log
3b 12
4 b2 4 12
log log or log log 2
3b 12 3b b
b3 = 16 or b = 9
4 b2
When b3 = 16, (b3)2 = 256 < 1728 = 123 b2 < 12 log log < 0 rejected.
3b 12
4 b2 81
When b = 9, log = log = log > 0 accepted.
3b 12 12
Method 2
x y x y
Remark Define the maximum function of x, y as: Max(x, y) =
2
x y x y
Similarly, the minimum function of x, y is: Min(x, y) =
2
a 2 log 2 log 4 1 log b log 3 log 3b
f(b) = , g(b) =1+ =
log 2 b log b log b log 3 b log b log b log b
The given equation is equivalent to 2 Max(f(b), g(b)) = 3
log 4 log 3b 4
If f(b) > g(b), i.e. b< , then the equation is 2f(b) = 3
log b log b 3
3
2 log 4 4 4
3 log 16 = log b3 b3 = 16 < 1 <
log b 3 27
27 < 4, which is a contradiction; rejected
If f(b) g(b), the equation is equivalent to 2 g(b) = 3
2 log 3b
i.e. 3 log 9b2 = log b3 9b2 = b3 b = 9
log b
x02
I3.3 Given that x0 satisfies the equation x2 5x + (b 8) = 0. If c = , find the value of c.
x04 x02 1
x2 5x + 1 = 0, x2 + 1 = 5x, x4 + 2x2 + 1 = 25x2, x4 + x2 + 1 = 24x2
x2 x2 1
c = 4 02 = 02 =
x0 x0 1 24 x 0 24
I3.4 If 2 and 216c are the roots of the equation px2 + dx = 1, find the value of d.
2 and 9 are roots of px2 + dx 1 = 0
1 1
Product of roots = = 29 p =
p 18
d 7
Sum of roots = = 2+9 18d = 7 d =
p 18
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Let a be a real number.
If a satisfies the equation log2(4x + 4) = x + log2(2x+1 3), find the value of a.
log2(4x + 4) = log2 2x + log2(2x+1 3)
4x + 4 = 2x(2x+1 3)
(2x)2 + 4 = 2(2x)2 32x
0 = (2x)2 32x 4
(2x 4)(2x + 1) = 0
2x = 4, x = 2 = a
I4.2 Given that n is a natural number.
If b = n3 4an2 12n + 144 is a prime number, find the value of b. (Reference: 2011 FI3.3)
Let f (n) = n3 8n2 12n + 144
f (6) = 63 862 126 + 144 = 216 288 72 + 144 = 0
f (6) is a factor
By division, f (n) = (n 6)(n 6)(n + 4)
b = n3 8n2 12n + 144 , it is a prime n 6 = 1, n = 7, b =11
I4.3 In Figure 1, S1 and S2 are two different inscribed squares of the right-angled triangle ABC.
If the area of S1 is 40b + 1, the area of S2 is 40b and AC + CB = c, find the value of c.
Reference: American Invitation Mathematics Examination 1987 Q15
A A
F E y
c b Q c
b
h
440
441 x S
C D B C P B
a a
Add the label D, E, F, P, Q, R, S as shown. CDEF, PQRS are squares.

Let DE = x, SR = y, then x = 441 = 21, y = 440 . Let BC = a, AC = b, AB = c = a 2 b 2 .
Let the height of the triangle drawn from C onto AB be h, then ab = ch = 2 area of .....(*)
bx x ab
AFE ~ ACB: x= = 21 .................(1)
b a ab
height of CSP from C h h y h ch
CSP ~ CAB: y= = 440
SP c y c ch
ab ab a 2 b 2
By (*), = 440 440 2 ......(2)
ab a ab b 2
c
c
From (1) ab = 21(a + b) ............ (3), sub. (3) into (2):
21a b a b 2ab 21a b a b 42a b 21 a b 42a b

2 2 2
440
a b 2 ab a b 2 21a b a b 21
Cross multiplying and squaring both sides:
440[(a + b)2 42(a + b) + 441] = 441[(a + b)2 42(a + b)]
(a + b)2 42(a + b) 440441 = 0
(a + b 462)(a + b + 420) = 0
AC + CB = a + b = 462
I4.4 Given that 241c + 214 = d2, find the positive value of d. Method 3
d = 241462 + 214 = 111556
2
Observe the number
d = 111556 patterns:
Reference: 342 = 1156
Divide 111556 into 3 groups of numbers 11, 15, 56. 3342 = 111556
Find the maximum integer p such that p2 11 p = 3 33342 = 11115556
11 p2 = 2 ................................
3+3=6 d = 334
Find the maximum integer q such that (60 + q)q 215 Also, 332 = 1089
q=3 3332 = 110889
215 633 = 26 33332 = 11108889
60 + q + q = 66 .....................................
Find the maximum integer r such that (660 + r)r 2656 34 = 12
r=4 3334 = 1122
d = 334 333334 = 111222
Method 2: d2 = 241462 + 214 = 111556 33333334 = 11112222
3002 = 90000 < 111556 < 160000 = 4002 300 < d < 400 .....................................
3302 = 108900 < 111556 < 115600 = 3402 330 < d < 340
The unit digit of d2 is 6 the unit digit of d is 4 or 6
3352 = 112225 d = 334
or 111556 is not divisible by 3, but 336 is divisible by 3
d = 334
Remark: Original question: , find the value of d. d = 334

IS.1 In figure 1, ABC is an acute triangle, AB = 15, AC = 13, and its
altitude AD = 12. If the area of the ABC is P, find the value of P.
BD = 15 2 12 2 = 9
CD = 132 12 2 = 5
P = area of = 9 5 12 = 84
1
2
IS.2 Given that x and y are positive integers. If x4 + y4 is divided by x + y, the quotient is P + 13
and the remainder is Q, find the value of Q.
x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q, 0 Q < x + y
Without loss of generality, assume x y,
x4 < x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q < 98(x + y) 98(2x) = 196x
x3 < 196
x5
On the other hand, x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q = x3(x + y) y(x3 y3)
(x3 97)(x + y) = y(x3 y3) + Q
RHS 0 LHS 0 x3 97
x5
x=5
Next, x4 + y4 = 97(x + y) + Q = y3(x + y) + x(x3 y3)
(97 y3)(x + y) = x(x3 y3) Q
(97 y3)(x + y) > x(x3 y3) (x + y)
(98 y3)(x + y) > 0
98 > y3
4 y ........... (1)
0 Q 0 x4 + y4 97(x + y)
97(5 + y) 625 + y4
97y 140 + y4 ............... (2)
By trial and error, y = 1 and y = 4 satisfies (2)
So there are two possible pairs (x, y) = (5, 1) or (5,4).
54 + 14 = 626 = (5 + 1)104 + 2, the quotient is not 97.
54 + 44 = 881 = (5 + 4)97 + 8, Q = 8
12
IS.3 Given that the perimeter of an equilateral triangle equals to that of a circle with radius cm.
Q
If the area of the triangle is R2 cm2, find the value of R.
12
Radius of circle = cm = 1.5 cm circumference = 21.5 cm = 3 cm
8
Side of the equilateral triangle = cm
1 3 2 2 3
Area of the triangle = 2 sin 60 cm2 = cm R =
2 4 4
3 1
IS.4 Let W = ,S=W+ , find the value of S.
2R 1
W
1
W
W
1 1 2
W = 2, S = 2 + S2 2S 1 = 0, S = , S > 0, S = 1 + 2 only
S 2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that a is an integer. If 50! is divisible by 2a, find the largest possible value of a.
2, 4, 6, 8, , 50 are divisible by 2, there are 25 even integers.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
4, 8, , 48 are divisible by 4, there are 12 multiples of 4.
32 is the only multiple of 32.
a = 25 + 12 + 6 + 3 + 1 = 47
G1.2 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x. For example, [2.5] = 2.
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
If b = 100 , find the value of b.
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
100
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79 11 12 13 14
= 100
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 12 13 14
= 100 1
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 100 12 100 13 100 14 100
= 100 +
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
1176+1277+1378+1479 <11100+12100+13100+14100<2(1176+1277+1378+1479)
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
1 2
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
11 77 12 78 13 79 14 80
101 100 102 , b = 101
11 76 12 77 13 78 14 79
G1.3 If there are c multiples of 7 between 200 and 500, find the value of c.
200
= 28.6, the least multiple of 7 is 729 = 203
7
500
= 71.4, the greatest multiple of 7 is 771 = 497
7
497 = a + (c 1)d = 203 + (n 1)7; c = 43
x
G1.4 Given that 0 x0 and x0 satisfies the equation sin x 1 1 sin x sin . If d = tan x0,
2 2

2
2 x
sin x 1 1 sin x sin
2
1 cos x
1 + sin x + 1 sin x 2 1 sin 2 x
2
2(2 2 cos x) = 1 cos x
cos x = 1
x0 = 0
d = tan x0 = 0
Group Event 2
5
G2.1 If the tens digit of 55 is a, find the value of a.
5
55 = 125, the tens digit = a = 2
Remark Original question: If the tenth-place digit , this is the position of the first digit to
the right of the decimal point.
G2.2 In Figure 1, ABC is a right-angled triangle, AB = 3cm,
AC = 4 cm and BC = 5 cm. If BCDE is a square and the area of
ABE is b cm2, find the value of b.
3
cos B =
5
3 9
Height of ABE from A = AB cos B = 3
5 5
1 9 9
b = 5
2 5 2
G2.3 Given that there are c prime numbers less than 100 such that their unit digits are not square
numbers, find the values of c.
The prime are: {2, 3, 5, 7, 13, 17, 23, 37, 43, 47, 53, 67, 73, 83, 97}
c = 15
G2.4 If the lines y = x + d and x = y + d intersect at the point (d 1, d), find the value of d.
x = (x + d) + d
x=0=d1
d=1
Group Event 3
G3.1 If a is the smallest real root of the equation x x 1 x 2 x 3 1 71 , find the value of a.
Let t = x + 1.5, then the equation becomes t 1.5t 0.5t 0.5t 1.5 1 71
2 9 2 1
t t 1 71
4 4
2
5 9 5 25 5
t 4 t 2 1 71 t 4 t 2 71 t 2 71
2 16 2 16 4
5 289 17 17
t 2 71 t 2 t= or t =
4 4 2 2
17 3
x = t 1.5 = = 7 or 10, a = the smallest root = 10
2 2
G3.2 Given that p and q are prime numbers satisfying the equation 18p + 30q = 186.
p
If log 8 = b 0, find the value of b.
3q 1
18p + 30q = 186 3p + 5q = 31
Note that the number 2 is the only prime number which is even.
3p + 5q = 31 = odd number either p = 2 or q = 2
p 2 1
If p = 2, then q = 5; b = log 8 = log 8 log 8 < 0 (rejected)
3q 1 3 5 1 16
p 7
If q = 2, then p = 7; b = log 8 = log 8 0
3q 1 3 2 1
G3.3 Given that for any real numbers x, y and z, is an operation satisfying
(i) x 0 = 1, and
(ii) (x y) z = (z xy) + z.
If 12004 = c, find the value of c.
c = 1 2004 = (10) 2004 = (20040)+ 2004 = 1 + 2004 = 2005
G3.4 Given that f (x) = (x4 + 2x3 + 4x 5)2004 + 2004. If f

3 1 = d, find the value of d.
x 3 1

(x + 1)2 = 3
2
x2 + 2x 2 = 0
By division, x4 + 2x3 + 4x 5 = (x2 + 2x 2)(x2 + 2) 1 = 1

d = f 3 1 = f(x) = (x4 + 2x3 + 4x 5)2004 + 2004 = (1)2004 + 2004 = 2005
Group Event 4
4x 1 2 1000
G4.1 If f x and P = f f f , find the value of P.
4 2
x
1001 1001 1001
4x 41 x 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
f x f 1 x x 1
4 2 41 x 2 4 4 2 4 x 2 41 x
1 2 1000
P= f f f
1001 1001 1001
1 1000 2 999 500 501
= f f f f f f = 500
1001 1001 1001 1001 1001 1001
G4.2 Let f (x) = |x a| + |x 15| + |x a 15|, where a x 15 and 0 < a < 15.
If Q is the smallest value of f (x), find the value of Q.
Reference: 1994 HG1, 2001 HG9, 2008 HI8, 2008 FI1.3, 2010 HG6, 2011 FGS.1, 2012 Final G2.3
f (x) = x a + 15 x + 15 x + a = 30 x 30 15 = 15 = Q
1 1
G4.3 If 2m = 3n = 36 and R = , find the value of R.
m n
Reference: 2001 HI1, 2003 FG2.2, 2004 FG4.3, 2005 HI9, 2006 FG4.3
log 2m = log 3n = log 36
m log 2 = n log 3 = log 36
log 36 log 36
m= ;n=
log 2 log 3
1 1 log 2 log 3 log 6 log 6 1
= = = =
m n log 36 log 36 log 36 2 log 6 2
G4.4 Let [x] be the largest integer not greater than x, for example, [2.5] = 2.
1 1 1
If a 1 2 2 and S = [a], find the value of a.
2 3 2004 2
1 1 1 1 1 1
1 < a 1 2 2 < 1
2 3 2004 2
1 2 2 3 2003 2004
1 1 1 1 1
= 11
2 2 3 2003 2004
1
= 2 <2
2004
S = [a] = 1
Group Event (Spare)

GS.1 For all integers n, Fn is defined by Fn = Fn1 + Fn2, F0 = 0 and F1 = 1.
If a = F5 + F4 + + F4 + F5, find the value of a.
F2 = 0 + 1 = 1, F3 = 1 + 1 = 2, F4 = 1 + 2 = 3, F5 = 2 + 3 = 5
F1 + 0 = 1 F1 = 1, F2 + 1 = 0 F2 = 1, F3 + (1) = 1 F3 = 2,
F4 + 2 = 1 F4 = 3, F5 + (3) = 2 F5 = 5
a = F5 + F4 + + F4 + F5 = 5 3 + 2 1 + 1 + 0 + 1 + 1 + 2 + 3 + 5 = 16
GS.2 Given that x0 satisfies the equation x2 + x + 2 = 0. If b = x04 + 2x03 + 3x02 + 2x0 +1, find the
value of b.
By division, b = x04 + 2x03 + 3x02 + 2x0 +1
= (x02 + x0 + 2)(x02 + x0) + 1 = 1
GS.3 Figure 1 shows a tile. If C is the minimum number of tiles

required to tile a square, find the value of C.
C = 12
GS.4 If the line 5x + 2y 100 = 0 has d points whose x and y coordinates are both positive integers,
(x, y) = (18, 5), (16, 10), (14, 15), (12, 20), (10, 25), (8, 30), (6, 35), (4, 40), (2, 45)
d=9
1
1 *8 2 3 9 4 6 5 8
02-03 see the remark
2
Individual 3
6 7 8 8 55 9 9 10 4
4
63 3 5
1 2 2 3 3 4 5 1
02-03 2525 4
Group 9
6 7 10 8 40 9 20.56 10 10
8
I1 Let f be a function such that for all integers m and n, f(m) is an integer and f(mn) = f(m) f(n).
It is given that f(m) > f(n) when 9 > m > n, f(2) = 3 and f(6) > 22, find the value of f(3).
f(4) = f(2)f(2) = 9
22
f(6) = f(2)f(3) = 3f(3) > 22 f(3) >
3
22 22
Q3<4 < f(3) < f(4) < f(3) < 9
3 3
Remark: The old version of the question was:
Let f be a function such that for all integers m and n, f(m) is an integer and f(mn) = f(m) f(n). It
is given that f(m) > f(n) when m > n, f(2) = 3 and f(6) > 22, find the value of f(3).
The old version of the question was wrong because it can be proved that f(15) > f(16).
Proof: f(4) = f(2)f(2) = 9
22
f(6) = f(2)f(3) = 3f(3) > 22 f(3) >
3
22 22
Q3<4 < f(3) < f(4) < f(3) < 9
3 3
f(8) = f(4)f(2) = 27; f(16) = f(8)f(2) = 81
f(9) = f(3) f(3) = 64; f(12) = f(4)f(3) = 72
1
f(9) < f(10)< f(12) 64 <f(10)< 72 64 <f(2)f(5)< 72 64 <3f(5)< 72 21 < f(5)< 24
3
f(5) = 22 or 23 f(15) = f(3) f(5) = 8f(5) = 176 or 184 > 81 = f(16), which is a contradiction
1
I2 If P = , find the value of P log2 P.
4
P log2 P = log 2 = log 2 2 2 = ( 2 ) =

1 1 1 1 1
4 4 4 4 2
2
99999 x + 1
I3 If 0 x 1, find the maximum value of log10 .
1000
1 99999 x + 1
0 99999x 99999 1 99999x + 1 100000 100
1000 1000
2
99999 x + 1 99999 x + 1
3 log10 2 log10 9
1000 1000
I4 Given that a quadratic equation a(x + 1)(x + 2) + b(x + 2)(x + 3) + c(x + 3)(x + 1) = 0 has
a
roots 0 and 1, and k = , find the value of k.
b
Put x = 0, 2a + 6b + 3c = 0 .................(1)
Put x = 1, 6a + 12b + 8c = 0 3a + 6b + 4c = 0 .................(2)
3(2) 4(1): a 6b = 0
a
k= =6
b
I5 There are n persons in the classroom. If each person in the classroom shakes hands exactly
once with each other person in the classroom and there are altogether 28 handshakes. Find the
value of n.
n(n 1)
There are altogether nC2 hand-shaking: = 28 n = 8
2
1 sin kx
I6 If for any 0 < x < , cot x cot x , where k is a constant, find the value of k
1
sin x (sin x )
2 4
4
cos 14 x cos x sin kx

sin 4 x sin x 1
sin x (sin x )
1
4
cos 14 x sin x cos x sin 14 x sin kx

(sin 4 x)(sin x )
1
(sin 14 x)(sin x )
sin (x 14 x ) sin kx

(sin 14 x)(sin x ) (sin 14 x)(sin x )
3
k=
4
I7 In Figure 1, AB is a diagonal of the cube and AB = 12 cm. If the
volume of the cube is M cm3, find the value of M.
Let the side length of the square be x cm
x2 + x2 + x2 = AB2 = 12
x=2
M = 23 = 8
I8 In Figure 2, a square with area equal to 25 cm2 is divided into 25 small
squares with side length equal to 1 cm. If the total number of different
squares in the figure is K, find the value of K.
K = total number of squares = 1 + 4 + 9 + 16 + 25 = 55
I9 It is given that the 6-digit number N = x1527 y is a multiple of 4, and the remainder is 5 when
N is divided by 11. Find the value of x + y.
N is a multiple of 4 the last two digit of N must be divisible by 4 y = 2 or 6
When N is divided by 11, the remainder is 5 (N 5) is divisible by 11
When y=2, (N5)= x15267 , it is divisible by 11 x+5+6 (1+2+7) = 11m x = 10 rejected
When y = 6, (N5)= x15271 , it is divisible by 11 x+5+7 (1+2+1) = 11m x = 3
x+y=3+6=9
I10 The sides of a triangle have lengths 7.5 cm, 11 cm and x cm respectively. If x is an integer,
find the minimum value of x.
Triangle inequality gives: 7.5 + 11 > x, 7.5 + x > 11, 11 + x > 7.5
18.5 > x, x > 3.5 and x > 3.5
3.5 < x < 18.5
For integral value of x, the minimum value is 4.
Group Events
1 1 1 1
G1 If k = + + +L+ , find the value of k.
4 5 6 5 6 7 6 7 8 99 100 101
1

1
=
(r + 2) r = 2 1
r (r + 1) (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 ) r (r + 1)(r + 2 )
1 1 1
Put r = 4, = 2
4 5 5 6 45 6
1 1 1
Put r = 5, = 2
5 6 6 7 5 6 7
.........................................................
1 1 1
Put r = 99, = 2
99 100 100 101 99 100 101
1 1 1 1
Add up these equations, k = + + +L+
4 5 6 5 6 7 6 7 8 99 100 101
1 1 1 1 504 63
= = =
2 4 5 100 101 2 10100 2525
G2 Suppose xy + xy = 2 2 and xy xy = k, where x > 1 and y > 0, find the value of k.
2 2
1 1 1 1 1
xy + y
= 2 2 x y + y = 8 x2y + 2y + 2 = 8 x2 y + 2 y 2 = 4 x y y = 4
x x x x x
y y 1
k = x x = xy y = 2
x
G3 In Figure 1, A : B : C = 3 : 2 : 1,
a : b : c = 2 : k : 1, find the value of k.
Let A = 3t, B = 2t, C = t
3t + 2t + t = 180 (s sum of )
t = 30, A = 90, B = 60, C = 30
By sine formula, a : b : c = sin 90 : sin 60 : sin 30
3 1
=1: : = 2 : 3 :1, k = 3
2 2
G4 In Figure 1, AMC and ANB are straight lines, NMC = NBC= 90,
AB = 4, BC = 3, areas of AMN and ABC are in the ratio 1 : 4. Find
the radius of the circle BNMC.
It is easy to show that AMN ~ ABC (equiangular)
2
Area of AMN MN 1
= =
Area of ABC BC 4
MN 1 AN AN 1
= = = , AN = 2.5
BC 2 AC 5 2
NB = AB AN = 4 2.5 = 1.5
3 3 5
NC = diameter = 1.5 2 + 32 = 5 , radius =
2 4
G5 If the equation x2 + ax + 3b a + 2 = 0 has real root(s) for any real number a, find the
maximum value of b.
= a2 4(3b a + 2) = a2 + 4a 8 12b 0
(a + 2)2 12(1 + b) 0
12(1 + b) 0, b 1
G6 Suppose the parabola y = 4x2 5x + c intersects the x-axis at (cos , 0) and (cos , 0)
respectively. If and are two acute angles of a right-angled triangle, find the value of c.
+ = 90 = 90
5 5 5
cos + cos = cos + cos(90 ) = cos + sin =
4 4 4
25 25 9 c 9
(cos + sin )2 = cos2 + 2 sin cos + cos2 = sin cos = = , c =
16 16 32 4 8
2
G7 Suppose the straight line y + 3x 4 = 0 intersects the parabola y = x at points A and B
respectively. If O is the origin, find the area of OAB.
Sub. y = 4 3x into y = x2; x2 = 4 3x x2 + 3x 4 = 0 (x 1)(x + 4) = 0 x = 1 or 4
When x = 1, y = 1; when x = 4, y = 16
1 1 1
Area of OAB = = 10
2 4 16
G8 In Figure 3, AC = BC = CD, ACB = 80.
If ADB = x, find the value of x. Reference 2011 HG9, 2014 FG2.4
We can use C as the centre, AC = BC = CD as the radius to draw a
circle to pass through A, B, D.
1
x = ACB = 40 ( at centre twice at ce)
2
G9 In Figure 4, the sector ABC is one quarter of a circle with radius
4 cm. Suppose the areas of the two shaded parts are equal. Let
the area of the trapezium ABCD be A cm2, find the area of A.
(Take = 3.14)
Let AD = x cm
Area of ABD = area of sector ABC
4 x = (4 ) x = 2
1 1 2
2 4
A = (4 + x ) 4 = 2(4 + 23.14) = 20.56
1
2
G10 In Figure 5, the area of DEF is 30 cm2. EIF, DJF and DKE D
are straight lines. P is the intersection point of DI and EK.

Let EI : IF = 1: 2, FJ : JD = 3 : 4, DK : KE = 2 : 3. Let the
K
area of DFP be B cm2, find the value of B. P
J
Let EI = t, IF = 2t, DK = 2x, KE = 3x
Draw a line IM on DE and parallel to KF.
EM EI 1
= =
E F
By the theorem of equal ratio, I
MK IF 2
D
EM = x, MK = 2x
DP : PI = DK : KM = 2x : 2x = 1:1 (Theorem of equal ratio) x
2 K
Area of DIF = Area of DFE = 20 cm2 2x P
3 J
1 M
Area of DFP = Area of DIF = 10 cm2 B = 10
2 E F
t I 2t
Individual Events
I1 P 5 I2 P 23 I3 P 4 I4 P 12
2
Q 4 Q 4 Q 33 Q
3
R 1 R 8 R 3 R 4
S 62 S 8 S 3 2 S 144
Group Events
180
G1 a 29 G2 a 12 G3 a 334501 G4
7
1 1
b 7 b 6 b b
3 5
c 100 c 16 c 1+ 2 c 10
44 1+ 5
d 206 d d 3 d
125 2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let P be the unit digit of 32003 52002 72001. Find the value of P.
32003 72001 is an odd number, and the unit digit of 52002 is 5; P = 5
I1.2 If the equation (x2 x 1)x+P1 = 1 has Q integral solutions, find the value of Q.
The equation is (x2 x 1)x+4 = 1
Either x2 x 1 = 1 .........(1) or x + 4 = 0 ........(2) or (x2 x 1 = 1 and x + 4 is even) ......(3)
(1): x = 2 or 1; (2): x = 4; (3): x = 0 or 1 and x is even x = 0 only
Conclusion: x = 4, 1, 0, 2
Q=4
I1.3 Let x, y be real numbers and xy = 1.
1 1
If the minimum value of 4 + 4 is R, find the value of R.
x Qy
1 1 1 1 1 1
4
+ 4 = 4 + 4 2 4 4 = 1 = R (A.M. G.M.)
x Qy x 4y x 4y
I1.4 Let xR, xR+1, , xK (K > R) be K R + 1 distinct positive integers and xR + xR+1++ xK = 2003.
If S is the maximum possible value of K, find the value of S. (Reference: 2004 HI4)
x1 + x2 + + xK = 2003
For maximum possible value of K, x1 = 1, x2 = 2, , xK1 = K 1
1 + 2 + + K 1 + xK = 2003
(K 1)K + x = 2003, x K
K K
2
2003
(K 1)K + K
2
4006 K2 + K
K2 + K 4006 0

K 1 1 + 4 4006 K 1 + 1 + 4 4006 0
2 2

1 + 1 + 4 4006
0K
2
1 + 1 + 4 4006 1 + 4 4006
= 4006 0.5 3969 0.5 = 632 0.5 = 62.5
2 2
Maximum possible K = 62 = S
1 + 2 + + 62 = 1953 = 2003 50; 1 + 2 + + 61 + 112 = 2003
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If the 50th power of a two-digit number P is a 69-digit number, find the value of P.
(Given that log 2 = 0.3010, log 3 = 0.4771, log 11 = 1.0414.)
Reference: 1995 HG5 37 100 157-digit number, 37 15 n-digit .
P50 = y, 10 < P 99, 1068 y <1069
1
P= y 50 ; 106850 < P < 106950
1.34 < log P < 1.38
log 22 = log 2 + log 11 = 1.3424; log 24 = 3log2+log3=1.3801
log 22 < log P < log 24, P = 23
I2.2 The roots of the equation x2 + ax P + 7 = 0 are and , whereas the roots of the equation
x2 + bx r = 0 are and . If the positive root of the equation (x2+axP+7) + (x2+bxr) = 0
is Q, find the value of Q.
+ = a, = 16; = b, ()() = r
b = a, r = 16
(x2 + ax P + 7) + (x2 + bx r) = 0 is equivalent to (x2 + ax 16) + (x2 ax 16) = 0
2x2 32 = 0
x = 4 or 4
Q = positive root = 4
I2.3 Given that ABC is an isosceles triangle, AB = AC = 2 , and D1, D2, , DQ are Q points on
BC. Let mi = ADi2 + BDiDiC. If m1 + m2 + m3 + + mQ = R, find the value of R.
Reference: 2010 HIS
As shown in the figure, AB = AC = 2
BD = x, CD = y, AD = t, ADC = A
Apply cosine formula on ABD and ACD
t2 + y2 2
cos = t
2ty

( )
cos 180 =
o t 2 + x2 2
2tx
B x D y C
since cos(180 ) = cos

Add these equations and multiply by 2txy:
x(t2 + y2 2) + y(t2 + x2 2) = 0
(x + y)t2 + (x + y)xy 2(x + y) = 0
(x + y)(t2 + xy 2) = 0
t2 + xy 2 = 0
AD2 + BDDC = 2
R = m1 + m2 + m3 + m4 = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 8
Method 2
Let BD = x, CD = y, AD = t, ABC = = ACD, A E
BAD = , CAD = .
Rotate AD anticlockwise about A to AE so that 2
t 2
DAE = BAC.

CAE = DAE = BAD = x y
B D C
By the property of rotation, AE = AD = t.
CAE BAD (S.A.S.)
CE = BD = x (corr. sides, s)
ACE = ABD = (corr. s, s)
DAE + DCE = + + 2 = 180 (s sum of )
2 = 180 ( + ) LLL (*)
The area of ADCE = SADE + SCE = the area of ABC
t sin ( + ) + xy sin 2 = 2 sin ( + )
1 2 1 1 2
2 2 2
t sin( + ) + xy sin[180 ( + )] = 2 sin( + ) by (*)
2
Q sin[180 ( + )] = sin( + ) t2 + xy = 2
AD2 + BDDC = 2
R = m1 + m2 + m3 + m4 = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 8
I2.4 There are 2003 bags arranged from left to right. It is given that the leftmost bag contains R
balls, and every 7 consecutive bags contains 19 balls altogether. If the rightmost bag contains
S balls, find the value of S.
The leftmost bag contains 8 balls.
Starting from left to right, the total number of balls from 2nd bag to the 7th bag is 11.
The number of balls in the 8th bag is therefore 8.
Similarly, the number of balls in the 15th bag, 22th bag, 29th bag, are all 8.
2003 = 7 286 + 1, the rightmost bag should have the same number of balls as the leftmost
bag.
S=8
Individual Event 3
wxyz = 4
I3.1 Given that and w > 0. If the solution of w is P, find the value of P.
w xyz = 3
From (2), xyz = w 3.............(3), sub. into (1)
w(w 3) = 4
w2 3w 4 = 0
w = 4 or w = 1 (rejected)
P=4
I3.2 Let [y] represents the integral part of the decimal number y. For example, [3.14] = 3.

( P
)
If 2 + 1 = Q, find the value of Q. (Reference: HKAL PM 1991 P1 Q11, 2005 HG5)

Note that 0 < 2 1 < 1 and 0 < ( 2 1)4 < 1
4 2
( 2 + 1)4 + ( 2 1)4 = 2( 2 + 6 2 + 1) = 2(4 + 12 + 1) = 34
33 < ( 2 + 1)4 < 34

( 4

)
Q = 2 + 1 = 33
6 x02 + y02
I3.3 Given that x0y0 0 and Qx02 22 3 x0y0 + 11y02 = 0. If = R, find the value of R.
6 x02 y02
33x02 22 3 x0y0 + 11y02 = 0
3x02 2 3 x0y0 + y02 = 0
( 3 x0 y0)2 = 0
y0 = 3 x0
6 x 2 + y02 6 x02 + 3 x02
R = 02 = =3
6 x0 y02 6 x02 3 x02
I3.4 The diagonals AC and BD of a quadrilateral ABCD are perpendicular to each other.
Given that AB = 5, BC = 4, CD = R. If DA = S, find the value of S. D
Reference 1994 FG10.1-2, 2001 FG2.2
Suppose AC and BD intersect at O. 3 S
Let OA = a, OB = b, OC = c, OD = d. d
a2 + b2 = 52 ..........(1)
b2 + c2 = 42...........(2) C
c
A
2 2 2 O a
c + d = 3 ...........(3)
2 2 2
d + a = S ..........(4) b
(1) + (3) (2): S2 = d2 + a2 = 52 + 32 42 = 18
4
S=3 2 5
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Suppose the 9-digit number 32 x35717 y is a multiple of 72, and P = xy, find the value of P.
72 = 89, the number is divisible by 8 and 9. (Reference: 2001 FG1.3)
17 y is divisible by 8, i.e. y = 6.
3 + 2 + x + 3 + 5 + 7 + 1 + 7 + 6 = 9m, where m is an integer.
34 + x = 9m, x = 2
P = xy = 26 = 12
P
I4.2 Given that the lines 4x + y = , mx + y = 0 and 2x 3my = 4 cannot form a triangle. Suppose
3
that m > 0 and Q is the minimum possible value of m, find Q.
2
Slope of L1 = 4, slope of L2 = m, slope of L3 =
3m
2 1
If L1 // L2: m = 4; if L2 // L3: m2 = (no solution); if L1// L3: m = (rejected, Q m > 0)
3 6
4 x + y = 4 LL(1)

If they are concurrent: mx + y = 0 LL(2)
2 x 3my = 4LL(3)

4 4m
Solve (1), (2) gives: x = ;y =
4m 4m
2 4 3m( 4m )
Sub. into (3): =4
4m 4m
3m2 + m 2 = 0
(m + 1)(3m 2) = 0
2
m= (rejected 1, Q m > 0)
3
2
Minimum positive m =
3
I4.3 Given that R, x, y, z are integers and R > x > y > z. If R, x, y, z satisfy the equation
495Q
2R + 2x + 2y + 2z = , find the value of R.
16
495 23 165 5 1 1
2R + 2x + 2y + 2z = = = 20 + = 24 + 22 + + 3
16 8 8 2 2
R=4
I4.4 In Figure 1, Q is the interior point of ABC. Three straight lines passing through Q are
parallel to the sides of the triangle such that FE // AB, GK // AC and HJ // BC. Given that the
areas of KQE, JFQ and QGH are R, 9 and 49 respectively. If the area of ABC is S, find
the value of S.
It is easy to show that all triangles are similar.
By the ratio of areas of similar triangles,
S KQE : S JFQ : S QGH = (QE)2 : (FQ)2 : (GH)2
4 : 9 : 49 = (QE)2 : (FQ)2 : (GH)2
QE : FQ : GH = 2 : 3 : 7
Let QE = 2t, FQ = 3t, GH = 7t
AFQG and BEQH are parallelograms.
AG = 3t, BH = 2t (opp. sides of //-gram)
AB = 3t + 7t + 2t = 12t
2
SABC = 4
12
= 144 = S
2
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that n and k are natural numbers and 1 < k < n. If
(1 + 2 + 3 + L + n ) k = 10 and
n 1
n + k = a, find the value of a.
n(n + 1)
k = 10n 10 n2 19n + 2(10 k) = 0
2
= 281 + 8k, n is an integer is a perfect square.
281 + 8k = 289, 361, 441, ... k = 1, 10, 20, ... Given 1 < k < n, k = 10, 20, ...
when k = 10, n = 19; a = n + k = 29; when k = 20, n = 20 rejected.
G1.2 Given that (x 1)2 + y2 = 4, where x and y are real numbers. If the maximum value of 2x + y2
is b, find the value of b.
2x + y2 = 2x + 4 (x 1)2
= x2 + 2x 1 + 2x + 4
= x2 + 4x + 3
= (x2 4x + 4) + 7
= (x 2)2 + 7 7 = b
G1.3 In Figure 1, ABC is an isosceles triangle and
AB = AC. Suppose the angle bisector of B meets
AC at D and BC = BD + AD. Let A = c, find the
value of c.
Let AB = n = AC; AD = q, BD = p, CD = n q
ABD = x = CBD; ACB = 2x.
Let E be a point on BC such that BE = p, EC = q
Apply sine formula on ABD and BCD. A
n q p+q nq c q
= ; =
sin ADB sin x sin BDC sin x n D
p
Q sin ADB = sin BDC n-q
Dividing the above two equations x
x 2x
n q B E C
= p+q
p+q nq
AB EC
= and ABC = ECD = 2x
BC CD
ABC ~ ECD (2 sides proportional, included angle)
CDE = 2x (corr. s, ~ s)
BED = 4x (ext. of CDE)
BDE = 4x (BD = BE = p, base s, isos. )
ADB = 3x (ext. of BCD)
2x + 3x + 4x = 180 (adj. s on st. line ADC)
x = 20
c = 180 4x = 100 (s sum of ABC)
Method 2 A
Claim c > 90 c q
Proof: Otherwise, either c < 90 or c = 90
If c < 90, then locate a point E on BC so that BE = n n D
ABD EBD (S.A.S.) p
DE = q (corr. sides s) n-q
x q q
DEB = c (corr. s s) x 2x
Locate a point F on BC so that DF = q B n F E C
DEF is isosceles p q
DFE = c (base s isos. ) (1)

ABD = x = CBD, ACB = 2x (2)
Consider ABC and FCD
BAC = c = CFD (by (1))
ABC = 2x = FCD (by (2))
CF : FD = BA : AC (cor. sides, ~s)
CF : FD = 1 : 1 (QABC is isosceles)
CF = FD = q
BF = BC CF = (p + q) q = p
Q BF = p = BD
BDF is isosceles
BFD = BDF (base s isos. )
180 o x
= (s sum of )
2
< 90
180 = BFD + EFD < 90 + 90 = 180, which is a contradiction
If c = 90, we use the same working steps as above, with E = F.
BE = n = BF = p
BDF is isosceles
180 o x
c = 90 = BFD = < 90, which is a contradiction
2
Conclusion: c > 90 A
Locate a point F on BC so that BF = n
ABD FBD (S.A.S.) q
DF = q (corr. sides s) n c D
DFB = c (corr. s s) p
DFC = 180 c < 90 (adj. s on st. line) n-q
Locate a point E on FC so that DE = q
x q q
x 2x
DEF is isosceles B n F E C
DEF = 180 c (base s isos. s) p q
DEC = c (adj. s on st. line) (3)
ABD = x = CBD; ACB = 2x (4)
Consider ABC and ECD
BAC = c = CED (by (3))
ABC = 2x = ECD (by (4))
ABC ~ ECD (equiangular)
CE : ED = BA : AC (cor. sides, ~s)
CE : ED = 1 : 1 (QABC is isosceles)
CE = ED = q
BE = BC CE = (p + q) q = p
Q BE = p = BD
BDE is isosceles
BED = BDE = 180 c (base s isos. )
In BDE, x + 2(180 c)= 180 (s sum of ) x = 2c 180 (5)
In ABC, c + 4x = 180 (s sum of ) (6)
Sub. (5) into (6), c + 4(2c 180) = 180
c = 100
G1.4 Given that the sum of two prime numbers is 105. If the product of these prime numbers is d,
2 is the only prime number which is an even integer.
The sum of two prime number is 105, which is odd
One prime is odd and the other prime is even
One prime is odd and the other prime is 2
One prime is 103 and the other prime is 2
d = 2103 = 206
Group Event 2
G2.1 Given that the equation ax(x + 1) + bx(x + 2) + c(x + 1)(x + 2) = 0 has roots 1 and 2.
If a + b + c = 2, find the value of a.
Expand and rearrange the terms in descending orders of x:
(a + b + c)x2 + (a + 2b + 3c)x + 2c = 0
2x2 + (a + b + c + b + 2c)x + 2c = 0
2x2 + (b + 2c + 2)x + 2c = 0
It is identical to 2(x 1)(x 2) = 0
b + 2c + 2 = 6; 2c = 4
Solving these equations give c = 2, b = 12, a = 12
x+ y
G2.2 Given that 48x = 2 and 48y = 3. If 8 1 x y = b, find the value of b.

Take logarithms on the two given equations:
x log 48 = log 2, y log 48 = log 3
log 2 log 3
x= ; y=
log 48 log 48
log 48 + log 48
log 2 log 3
x+ y
=
1 x y 1 log 48 log 48
log 2 log 3
log 2 + log 3
=
log 48 log 2 log 3
x+ y
log 6
= b = 8 1 x y
log 8
x+ y
x+ y
log b = log 8 1 x y = log 8
1 x y
log 6
= log 8 = log 6 b = 6
log 8
G2.3 In Figure 1, the square PQRS is inscribed in
ABC. The areas of APQ, PBS and QRC
are 4, 4 and 12 respectively. If the area of the
square is c, find the value of c.
Let BC = a, PS = x, the altitude from A onto
BC = h.
1 8
Area of BPS = x BS = 4 BS =
2 x
1 24
Area of CQR = x CR = 12 CR =
2 x
8 24 32
BC = BS + SR + RC = + x + = x + ..........(1)
x x x
Area of APQ = x(h x ) =4 h = + x ...........(2)
1 8
2 x
1
Area of ABC = h BC = 4 + 4 + 12 + x2 = 20 + x2 ...............(3)
2
18 32
Sub. (1) and (2) into (3): + x x + = 20 + x2
2 x x
2 2 2 4
(8 + x )(x + 32) = 40x + 2x
x4 + 40x2 + 256 = 40x2 + 2x4
x4 = 256
c = area of the square = x2 = 16
4 7
G2.4 In ABC, cos A = and cos B = . If cos C = d, find the value of d.
5 25
3 24
sin A = , sin B =
5 25
cos C = cos(180 A B) = cos(A + B) = cos A cos B + sin A sin B
4 7 3 24 44
= + =
5 25 5 25 125
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let f be a function such that f(1) = 1 and for any integers m and n, f(m + n) = f(m) + f(n) + mn.
f (2003)
If a = , find the value of a.
6
f(n+1) = f(n) + n + 1 = f(n1) + n + n + 1 = f(n2) + n1 + n + n+1 == 1 + 2 + + n + n+1
n(n + 1)
f(n) =1 + 2 + + n =
2
f (2003) 2004 2003
= = 334501
6 12
3
3
1
12 x2 + x 2 3
G3.2 Suppose x + x 2
= 3, b = 2 , find the value of b.
x + x 2 2
(x 1
2
+x
12
) =9
2
(
x + x 1 = 7 x + x 1 )
2
= 49 x 2 + x 2 = 47
(x 1
2
+x
12
)(x + x ) = 3 7 x
1
3
2
+x
32 1
+ x2 + x
12 3
= 21 x 2 + x
32
=18
3
3
x + x 3 18 3 1
2 2
b= 2 = =
x + x 2 2 47 2 3
n
G3.3 Given that f(n) = sin , where n is an integer. If c = f(1) + f(2) + + f(2003), find the value
4
of c.
f(1) + f(2) + f(3) + f(4) + f(5) + f(6) + f(7) + f(8)
1 1 1 1
= +1+ +0 1 +0=0
2 2 2 2
and the function repeats for every multiples of 8.
1 1
c = f(2001) + f(2002) + f(2003) = +1+ =1+ 2
2 2
2 x + 1, when x < 1
G3.4 Given that f(x) = 2 . If d is the maximum integral solution of f(x) = 3, find
x 2 x, when x 1
the value of d.
When x 1, f(x) = 3 x2 2x = 3 x2 2x 3 = 0 x = 3 or 1 (rejected)
When x < 1, 2x + 1 = 3 2x = 2 x = 1
d=3
Group Event 4
G4.1 In Figure 1, AE and AD are two straight lines and E
AB = BC = CD = DE = EF = FG = GA. C
If DAE = , find the value of .
AFG = = ACB (base s isos. ) G
CBD = 2 = FGE (ext. of )
FEG = 2 = BDC (base s isos. )
DFE = 3 = DCE (ext. of ) A B F D
ADE = 3 = AED (base s isos. )
+ 3 + 3 = 180 (s sum of )
180
=
7
G4.2 Suppose P(x) = a0 + a1x + a2x2 + + a8x8 is a polynomial of degree 8 with real coefficients
1
a0, a1, , a8. If P(k) = when k = 1, 2, , 9, and b = P(10), find the value of b.
k
1
P(k) = , for k = 1, 2, , 9.
k
Let F(x) = x P(x) 1, then F(k) = k P(k) 1 = 0, for k = 1, 2, , 9.
F(x) is a polynomial of degree 9 and the roots are 1, 2, , 9.
F(x) = x P(x) 1 = c(x 1)(x 2) (x 9)
c( x 1)( x 2 )L( x 9 ) + 1
P(x) = , which is a polynomial of degree 8.
x
Compare the constant term of c(x 1)(x 2) (x 9) + 1 = 0 :
c9! + 1 = 0
1
c = P(x) =
(x 1)(x 2)L(x 9) + 9!
9! 9! x
9!+9! 1
P(10) = =
9!10 5
G4.3 Given two positive integers x and y, xy (x + y) = HCF(x, y) + LCM(x, y), where HCF(x, y)
and LCM(x, y) are respectively the greatest common divisor and the least common multiple of
x and y. If c is the maximum possible value of x + y, find c.
Without loss of generality assume x y.
Let the H.C.F. of x and y be m and x = ma, y = mb where the H.C.F. of a, b is 1.
L.C.M. of x and y = mab. a b.
xy (x + y) = HCF + LCM m2ab m(a + b) = m + mab
ab (m 1) = a + b + 1
1 1 1
m1= + +
a b ab
1 1 1
1m1= + + 3
a b ab
m = 2, 3 or 4
1 1 1
when m = 2, + + = 1 a + b + 1 = ab ab a b 1 = 0
a b ab
ab a b + 1 = 2
(a 1)(b 1) = 2
a = 3, b = 2, m = 2, x = 6, y = 4, c = x + y = 10
1 1 1
When m = 3, + + = 2 a + b + 1 = 2ab 2ab a b 1 = 0
a b ab
4ab 2a 2b + 1 = 3
(2a 1)(2b 1) = 3
a = 2, b = 1, m = 3, x = 6, y = 3, c = x + y = 9
1 1 1
When m = 4, + + = 3 a + b + 1 = 3ab 3ab a b 1 = 0
a b ab
9ab 3a 3b + 1 = 4
(3a 1)(3b 1) = 4
a = 1, b = 1, m = 4, x = 4, y = 4, c = x + y = 8
Maximum c = 10
G4.4 In Figure 2, ABC is an equilateral triangle, points M and N
are the midpoints of sides AB and AC respectively, and F is
the intersection of the line MN with the circle ABC.
MF
If d = , find the value of d.
MN
Let O be the centre, join AO.
Suppose MN intersects AO at H.
Produce FNM to meet the circle at E.
Then it is easy to show that:
MN // BC (mid-point theorem)
AMO ANO (SSS)
AMH ANH (SAS) A
AO MN and MH = HN ( s)
EH = HF ( from centre bisect chords) a
Let EM = t, MN = a, NF = p. M H N
t = EH MH = HF HN = p E a F
t p
By intersecting chords theorem, a
O
AN NC = FN NE
a2 = p(p + a) B C
2a
p2 + ap a2 = 0
2
p p
+ 1 = 0
a a
p 1+ 5 1 5
= or (rejected)
a 2 2
MF a + p
d= =
MN a
1+ 5
=1+
2
1+ 5
=
2
5
1 2 180 3 8 4 93324 5 7.5
01-02 42
Individual 2
6 120 7 8 3 9 4.5 10 23
3
1 360 2 221 3 18 4 43 5 7
01-02
9
Group 6 65 7 8 48 9 28 10 8
20
Individual Events
I1 There are 9 cards, numbered from 1 to 9, in a bag. If 3 cards are drawn together at random,
find the probability that all are odd. (Express your answer in the simplest fraction.)
5 4 3 5
P(all are odd) = =
9 8 7 42
I2 Given a3 = 150b and a, b are positive integers, find the least value of b.
150 = 2352
For the least value of b, a3 = 233353
b = 22325 = 180
a b
I3 Suppose cos 15 = and a, b are natural numbers. If a + b = y, find the value of y.
4
cos 15 = cos (60 45)
= cos 60 cos 45 + sin 60 sin 45
1 2 3 2 2 6
=
2 2 2 2 4
y=a+b=2+6=8
I4 Each of the digits 2, 3, 4, 5 can be used once and once only in writing a four-digit number.
Find the sum of all such numbers.
A number starting with 2 may be 2345, 2354, 2435, 2453, 2534, 2543. So there are 6
numbers starting with 2. Similarly, there are 6 numbers starting with 3, 6 numbers starting
with 4, 6 numbers starting with 5.
The sum of all possible thousands-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 1000 = 84000
Similarly the sum of all possible hundreds-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 100 = 8400,
the sum of all possible tens-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 100 = 840,
the sum of all possible units-digits are: (62 + 63 + 64 + 65) 100 = 84.
The sum of all possible numbers are: 84000 + 8400 + 840 + 84 = 93324
I5 In ABC, DE // BC, FE // DC, AF = 2, FD = 3 and A
DB = X. Find the value of X.

AE : EC = 2 : 3 (theorem of eq. ratio)
AD : DB = 2 : 3 (theorem of eq. ratio) F
DB = 2 3 = 7.5
3
E
2 D
C
B
I6 If the lengths of the sides of a cyclic quadrilateral are 9, 10 C

D
10, 10 and 21 respectively, find the area of the cyclic
quadrilateral. (Reference: 2014 HI5) 10
9
Let AB = 21, BC = 10 = CD, DA = 9, join AC.
AC2 = 212 + 102 22110 cos B ...............(1)
A B
AC2 = 92 + 102 2910 cos D ...................(2) 21
(1) = (2): 541 420 cos B = 181 180 cos D .......(3)
cos D = cos B
(3): (420 + 180) cos B = 541 181
3
cos B =
5
2
3 4
sin B = sin D = 1
5 5
Area of the cyclic quadrilateral = area of ABC + area of ACD
1 4 1 4
= 21 10 9 10
2 5 2 5
1 4
= 30 10
2 5
= 120
I7 If
a b c d 3 , find the value of a c b d .
b c d a a b c d
Reference: 2006 HG6, 2009 FI3.3, 2014 HG7
a b c d 3 ............(1)
b c d a
ac bc ad + bd = 3bd 3cd 3ab + 3ac
3ab bc ad + 3cd = 2ac + 2bd
ab bc ad + cd = 2ac 2ab 2cd + 2bd ...........(2)
a c b d = ab bc ad cd = 2ac ab cd bd by (2)
a b c d ac bc ad bd ac bc ad bd
2b c d a 2
= = by (1)
a b c d 3
I8 When the expression x3 + kx2 + 3 is divided by x + 3, the remainder is 2 less than when
divided by (x + 1). Find the value of k.
Let f(x) = x3 + kx2 + 3
f (1) f (3) = 2
1 + k + 3 (27 + 9k + 3) = 2
k=3
I9 Given that the perimeter of a sector of a circle is 18. When the radius is r, the area of the
sector attains the maximum value, find the value of r.
Let be the angle (in radians) subtended at centre, A be the area of the sector.
2r r 18

1 2
A 2 r
18 2r
r

A 1 r 2
2
1 2 18 2r
A r
2 r
= r(9 r)
= (r 4.5)2 + 4.52
When the area is a maximum, r = 4.5
1 1
I10 Given f x x 2 2 , find the value of f(5).
x x
2
1 1 1
f x x2 2 + 2 2 = x 2
x x x
f(x) = x 2
2
f(5) = 23
Group Events
G1 A bag of sweets is distributed to three persons A, B and C. The numbers of sweets obtained by
A, B and C are in the ratios of 5 : 4 : 3 respectively. If the sweets are re-distributed to A, B, C
according to the ratios 7 : 6 : 5 respectively, then one of them would get 40 more sweets than
his original number. Find the original number of sweets obtained by this person.
3 9 5 10
5 + 4 + 3 = 12; 7 + 6 + 5 = 18; , ; C would get more.
12 36 18 36
Let the original number of sweets be x.
10 9
x 40
36 36
x = 1440
3
C originally obtained 1440 = 360 sweets.
12
G2 Given that a, b, c are three consecutive odd numbers and b3 = 3375, find the value of ac.
b3 = 3375 = 3353
b = 15
a=b2
c=b+2
ac = (b 2)(b + 2)
= b2 4
= 225 4 = 221
G3 Let p be the area of the polygon formed by the
inequality |x| + |y| 3 in the Cartesian plane. Find the
value of p. 2
The graph is shown on the right. x - y = -3 x+y=3
The polygon formed by the inequality is the shaded
region.
1
p = shaded area = 4 32 = 18
2
x + y = -3 x-y=3
-2
G4 Find the remainder of 72003 100. (Reference: 1989 HG6)

71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401; the last 2 digits repeats for every multiples of 4.
72003 = 74500+3, the last 2 digits is 43.
G5 If real numbers x, y satisfy the equation x2 + y2 + 3xy = 35, find the maximum value of xy.
35 = x2 2xy + y2 + 5xy = (x y)2 + 5xy 5xy
7 xy, equality holds when x = y.
The maximum value of xy = 7.
A
G6 In figure 1, points A, B, C, D, E are on a circle with A

centre at O.
Given DEO = 45, AOE = 100, ABO = 50, B
BOC = 40, and ODC = x, find the value of x.
50
AOB = 180 250 = 80 (s sum of )
DOE = 180 245 = 90 (s sum of ) O
100 40
COD = 360 40 80 100 90 (s at a pt.)
= 50 C
x = (180 50) 2 = 65 (s sum of ) E 45
x = 65
x
G7 20 balls are put into 2 bags with 10 balls in each bag. The balls in each bag are labeled
numbers 1 to 10, all balls in one bag are white and all balls in the other bag are black. If one
ball is drawn from each of two bags, find the probability that the number of the white ball is
greater than that of the black ball.
Let the number shown on the white ball drawn be x, and the number shown on the black ball
drawn be y. To find P(x > y).
By symmetry, P(x > y) = P(x < y)
Further, P(x > y) + P(x > y) + P(x = y) = 1
1 1
2P(x > y) + 10 =1
10 10
9
P(x > y) =
20
G8 In figure 2, PQ, PO1, O1Q are diameters
of semi-circles C1, C2, C3 with centres at C1
C4
O1, O2, O3 respectively, and the circle C4
touches C1, C2, and C3 . If PQ = 24, find
the area of circle C4. (Take = 3). C2 C3
O1O2 = O1O3 = 6
Let the centre of C4 be O4, the radius = r.
O4O1 PQ
O3O4 = r + 6; O1O4 = 12 r P O2 O1 O3 Q
(12 r)2 + 62 = (r + 6)2 (Pythagoras Theorem on O1O3O4)

144 24r + r2 + 36 = r2 + 12r + 36
r=4
Area of C4 = (42) = 48
G9 Given that a and b are positive integers satisfying the equation ab a b = 12, find the value
of ab.
Reference: 1987 FG10.4, 2012 FI4.2
ab a b + 1 = 13
(a 1)(b 1) = 13
a 1 = 13, b 1 = 1
a = 14, b = 2
ab = 28
1
G10 Given that A is a right angle in triangle ABC, sin 2 C cos 2 C , AB 40 and BC = x,
4
1
sin 2 C cos 2 C
4
1
sin2C (1 sin2 C) =
4
5
sin C =
8
B + C = 90
5 40
cos B = sin C =
8 x
x=8
Individual Events
99
I1 P 40 I2 P I3 P 12 I4 P 4
100
Q 72 Q 1 Q 1 Q 8
R 648 R 3 R 615 R 4
1
S 40.5 S S 60 S 10
12
Group Events
G1 a 21 G2 a 24 G3 a 2005 G4 a 4032
b 2.5 b 52 b 2 b 2
c 19 c 2005003 c 649 c 1
d 300 d 3 d 8 d 2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 In the following figure, ABCD is a square of length
10 cm. AEB, FED and FBC are straight lines. The area of A D
AED is larger than that of FEB by 10 cm . If the area
2
of DFB is P cm2, find the value of P.

Let the area of BDE be x.
Then area of AED + x (area of BEF + x) = 10 E
area of ABD area of BDF = 10
1 F
1010 area of BDF = 10 B C
2
area of BDF = 40
Method 2
Area of ADE area of BFE = 10 (given)
Area of ADE + area of AEF area of BFE area of AEF = 10
Area of ADF area of AFB = 10
1
10 10 area of DFB = 10 Area of DFB = 50 10 = 40
2
I1.2 Workman A needs 90 days to finish a task independently while workman B needs Q days for
the same task. If they only need P days to finish the task when working together, find the
value of Q.
1 1 1

90 Q 40
Q = 72
I1.3 In the following figure, ABCD, the area of trapezium ABCD is D
R cm . Given that the areas of ABE and CDE are Q cm and A
2 2
4Q cm2 respectively, find the value of R.

Reference: 1993 HI2, 1997 HG3, 2000 FI2.2, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
E
It is easy to show that ABE ~ CDE (equiangular)
Q : 4Q = (AB)2 : (CD)2 AB : CD = 1 : 2
B
AE : EC = AE : EC = BE : ED = 1 : 2 (ratio of sides, ~ 's)
SAEB : SAED = BE : ED = 1 : 2 (the 2 s have the same heights) C
SAED = 2Q
SAEB : SBEC = AE :EC = 1:2 (the 2 s have the same heights)
SBEC = 2Q
SABCD = Q + 4Q + 2Q + 2Q = 9Q = 648
R = 648
I1.4 In the following figure, O is the centre of the circle, HJ and IK are
diameters and HKI = S. J
K
1
Given that HKI + HOI + HJI = R, find the value of S.
4
S
1
S+2S+S = 648 O
4
4S=162 ( at centre = 2 at ce)
S = 40.5
H I
Individual Event 2
1 1 1 1
I2.1 Given that P = , find the value of P.
1 2 2 3 3 4 99 100
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
P =1
2 2 3 3 4 99 100
1 99
= 1 =
100 100
99 99 2 99 3
I2.2 Given that 99Q = P (1 + + + +), find the value of Q.
100 100 2 100 3
99 99 99 2 99 3
99Q = (1 + + + +)
100 100 100 2 100 3
99 1
= 99
100 1 10099
Q=1
2 x 2 2 Rx R
I2.3 Given that x and R are real numbers and Q for all x, find the maximum
4x2 6x 3
value of R.
4x2 + 6x + 3 = (2x + 1.5)2 + 0.75 > 0
2 x 2 2 Rx R
1
4x2 6x 3
2x2 + 2Rx + R 4x2 + 6x + 3
2x2 + 2(3 R)x + 3 R 0
0
(3 R)2 2(3 R) 0
(3 R)(1 R) 0
1R3
The maximum value of R = 3
I2.4 Given that S = log144 R 2 + log144 2 R R , find the value of S.
1
log 2 16 log 3 2 log 2 log 3 log12 log12 1
S= 3 2

log144 log144 6 log144 6 log12 12 log12 12
Method 2
S = log144 R 2 + log144 2 R R
= log144( 3 2 6 3 )
= log144( 6 12 )
1
= log144( 12 144 ) =
12
Individual Event 3
I3.1 A rectangular piece of paper is folded into the A
1
following figure. If the area of ABC is
3 B
of the area of the original rectangular piece of P cm
paper, find the value of P. 4 cm
BC = P 4, AC = 10, ACB = 90 C
P 4 10 1 P 10
2 3 10 cm
P = 12
P x
I3.2 If Q is the positive integral solution of the equation (4 + 4x) 35(2x + 2x) + 62 = 0, find
2
the value of Q.
Let t = 2x + 2x, then t2 = 4x + 4x + 2
4x + 4x = t2 2
The equation becomes 6(t2 2) 35t + 62 = 0
6t2 35t + 50 = 0
(2t 5)(3t 10) = 0
5 10
t = or
2 3
5 10
2x + 2x = or 2x + 2x =
2 3
1 5 1 10
2x x or 2 x x
2 2 2 3
2(2 ) + 2 = 5(2 ) or 3(2 ) + 3 = 10(2x)
x 2 x x 2
2(2x)2 5(2x) + 2 = 0 or 3(2x)2 10(2x) + 3 = 0

(22x 1)(2x 2) = 0 or (32x 1)(2x 3) = 0
1 1
2x = , 2, or 3
2 3
For positive integral solution x = 1; Q = 1
I3.3 Let [a] be the largest integer not greater than a. For example, [2.5] = 2.
If R = [ 1 ] + [ 2 ] + + [ 99Q ], find the value of R.
R = [ 1 ] + [ 2 ] + + [ 99 ] = 1 1 1 2

2 3

3 9

9
5 times 7 times 19 times
R = 31 + 52 + 73 + + 199
R = (21+1)1 + (22+1)2+(23+1)3 + + (29+1)9
R = 212 + 1 + 222 + 2 + 232 + 3 + + 292 + 9
R = 2(12 + 22 + 32 + + 92) + (1 + 2 + 3 + + 9)
R = 2 99 12 9 1
1 1 99 = 31019 + 45 = 570 + 45 = 615
6 2
I3.4 In a convex polygon, other than the interior angle A, the sum of all the remaining interior
angles is equal to 4R. If A = S, find the value of S.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1990 FG10.3-4, 1992 HG3, 2013 HI6
4615 + S = 180(n 2)
S = 180(n 2) 2460
The polygon is convex
S < 180. S = 180(14) 2460 = 60
Individual Event 4
5 1
I4.1 Given that f (x) = (x2 + x 2)2002 + 3 and f = P, find the value of P.
2 2
5 1
x=
2 2
2x = 5 1
(2x + 1) = 5
(2x + 1)2 = 5
4x2 + 4x 4 = 0
x2 + x = 1
f (x) = (x2 + x 2)2002 + 3 = (1 2)2002 + 3 = 1 + 3 = 4
I4.2 In the following figure, ABCD is a rectangle. E and F are A
D
points on AB and BC respectively. The areas of triangles
P
AED, EBF and FCD are P, 3 and 5 respectively. If the
E
area of EFD is Q, find the value of Q.
Let AE = x, CF = y, AD = b, CD = a. 5
3
Then BE = a x, BF = b y
Given the area of ADE = 4 bx = 8 ..(1) B F C
the area of CDF = 5 ay = 10.(2)
The area of BEF = 3 (a x)(b y) = 6
ab bx ay + xy = 6 ..(3)
Sub. (1), (2) into (3) ab 8 10 + xy = 6
80
Sub. (1), (2) into the equation again: ab 18 6
ab
Solving for ab, ab = 20 or 4 (rejected)
The area of DEF = 20 3 4 5 = 8
Q=8
I4.3 It is given that x and y are positive integers. If the number of solutions (x, y) of the inequality
x2 + y2 Q is R, find the value of R. (Reference: 2007 FG1.2)
x2 + y2 8
(x, y) = (1, 1), (1, 2), (2, 1), (2, 2)
R=4
I4.4 It is given that and are roots of the equation x2 ax + a R = 0, where a is real.
If the minimum value of ( + 1)2 + ( + 1)2 is S, find the value of S.
x2 ax + a 4 = 0; + = a, = a 4
(+1)2 + (+1)2 = 2 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 + 1
= ( + )2 2 + 2( + ) + 2
= a2 2(a 4) + 2a + 2 = a2 + 10 10
The minimum value is S = 10.
Group Event 1
G1.1 Assume that the curve x2 + 3y2 = 12 and the straight line mx + y = 16 intersect at only one
point. If a = m2, find the value of a.
Sub. y = 16 mx into x2 + 3y2 = 12
x2 + 3(16 mx)2 = 12
x2 + 3(256 32mx + m2x2) = 12
(1 + 3m2)x2 96mx + 756 = 0
The straight line is a tangent = (96m)2 4(1 + 3m2)756 = 0
576m2 189(1 + 3m2) = 0
64m2 21(1 + 3m2) = 0
m2 = 21
a = 21
G1.2 It is given that x + y = 1 and x2 + y2 = 2. If x3 + y3 = b, find the value of b.
(x + y)2 = 1 x2 + y2 + 2xy = 1
2 + 2xy = 1
1
xy =
2
3 3
b=x +y
= (x + y)(x2 + y2 xy)
1 5
= 1(2 + ) =
2 2
G1.3 In the following figure, AC = AD = AE= ED =DB A
and BEC = c. Given that BDC = 26 and
ADB = 46, find the value of c.
B
ADE is an equilateral triangle.
DAE = ADE = AED = 60 E
BD = DE and BDE = 46 + 60 = 106
BED = (180 106)2 = 37 (s sum of )
AEB = 60 37 = 23 C
ADC = 26 + 46 = 72 D
AC = AD and ADC = 72 = ACD (base , isos. )
CAD = 180 722 = 36 (s sum of )
AC = AE and CAE = 36 + 60 = 96
AEC = (180 96)2 = 42 (s sum of )
CED = 60 42 = 18
BCE = 60 18 23 = 19
c = 19
G1.4 It is given that 4 cos4 + 5 sin2 4 = 0, where 0 < < 360. If the maximum value of is
4 cos4 + 5 sin2 4 = 0 4 cos4 + 5(1 cos2 ) 4 = 0 4 cos4 5 cos2 + 1 = 0
(4cos2 1)(cos2 1) = 0
1
cos2 = or 1
4
1 1
cos = , , 1 or 1.
2 2
= 60, 300, 120, 180, 240.
The maximum value of = 300
d = 300
Group Event 2
G2.1 It is given that the lengths of the sides of a triangle are 6, 8, and 10.
If the area of the triangle is a, find the value of a.
62 + 82 = 36 + 64 = 100 = 102
It is a right angled triangle.
The area of the triangle = 6 8 2 = 24
a = 24
1 1
G2.2 Given that f x x 3 3 and f (4) = b, find the value of b.
x x
1
Let y = x
x
1
y2 2 = x 2
x2
1 1 1
x3 x x 2 1 2
x
3
x x
= y(y2 3) = y3 3y
f (y) = y3 3y
b = f(4) = 43 3(4) = 52
G2.3 Given that 20022 20012 + 20002 19992 + + 42 32 + 22 12 = c, find the value of c.
Reference: 1997 HI5, 2004 HI1, 2015 FI3.2, 2015 FG4.1
c = (2002+ 2001)(2002 2001) + (2000 + 1999)(2000 1999) ++ (4+3)(43) + (2+1)(21)
c = 4003 + 3999 + + 7 + 3
4003 3
= 1001 = 2005003
2
G2.4 PQRS is a square, PTU is an isosceles triangle, and
TPU = 30. Points T and U lie on QR and RS P Q
respectively. The area of PTU is 1. If the area of PQRS is
Let PT = a = PU
1 2 T
a sin 30 1
2
a=2
PSU PQT (RHS)
Let PS = x = PQ; SU = y = QT S U R
SPU = QPT = 30 (corr. s )
3
x = PU cos 30 = 2 3
2
2
d = area of PQRS = 3 = 3
Group Event 3
2002 3 4 2002 2 6006
G3.1 If = a, find the value of a.
2002 2 2002
a=

2002 2002 2 4 2002 3
20022002 1
=
2002 12002 3
2002 1
= 2005
x
G3.2 It is given that the real numbers x and y satisfy the relation y .
2x 1
1 1
If the minimum value of 2
2 is b, find the value of b.
x y
1 2 x 1
2
1 1
2 = 2
x 2
y x x2
4x 2 4x 2
=
x2
4x 2 4x 2
Let T =
x2
2 2
Tx = 4x 4x + 2
(T 4)x2 + 4x 2 = 0
= 42 + 42(T 4) 0
2+T40
T2
The minimum value is 2
b=2
G3.3 Suppose two different numbers are chosen randomly from the 50 positive integers 1, 2, 3, ,
50, and the sum of these two numbers is not less than 50. If the number of ways of choosing
these two numbers is c, find the value of c.
Possible combinations may be: (1, 49), (1, 50),
(2, 48), (2, 49), (2, 50),
(3, 47), (3, 48), (3, 49), (3, 50),
.................................................
(24, 26), (24, 27), , (24, 50),
(25, 26), (25, 27), , (25, 50),
(26, 27), , (26, 50)
..................................
(49, 50)
Total number of combinations = (2 + 3 + + 25) + 25 + (24 + 23 + + 1)
= (1 + 2 + + 24)2 + 24 + 25
= 2524 + 49 = 649
G3.4 Given that x y = 1 + 5 , y z = 1 5 . If x2 + y2 + z2 xy yz zx = d, find the value of d.
2d = (x y)2 + (y z)2 + (z x)2 = (1 + 5 )2 + (1 5 )2 + [(z y) (x y)]2
2d = 1 + 2 5 + 5 + 1 2 5 + 5 + [1 + 5 (1 + 5 )]2 = 12 + 4 = 16
d=8
Group Event 4
G4.1 If a is the sum of all the positive factors of 2002, find the value of a.
Reference 1993 HI8, 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2005 FI4.4
2002 = 271113
The positive factors may be 2a7b11c13d, where 0 a, b, c, d 1 are integers.
The sum of all positive factors are (1 + 2)(1 + 7)(1 + 11)(1 + 13) = 381214 = 4032 = a
2 x xy 3 y
G4.2 It is given that x > 0, y > 0 and x ( x y ) 3 y ( x 5 y ) . If b = ,
x xy y
x( x y) 3 y ( x 5 y)
x + xy = 3 xy + 15y
x 2 xy 15y = 0
x 3 y
x 5 y 0
x 5 y and x = 25y
2 x xy 3 y 50 y 25 y 2 3 y 58 y
b= = = =2
x xy y 25 y 25 y 2 y 29 y
b=2
G4.3 Given that the equation | |x 2| 1| = c has only 3 integral solutions, find the value of c.
Reference: 2005 FG4.2, 2009 HG9, 2012 FG4.2
|x 2| 1 = c
|x 2| = 1c
In order that it has only 3 integral solutions
c=1
1 1 1 1
G4.4 If d is the positive real root of the equation x 2 2 2 2 2 ,
2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 2
x 2 2 2 2
2 2 2 2
1 1 1
x 2 2 2 2 4
2 2 2
1 1 1
x 2 2 2 2
2 2 2
1 1 2
2 2 x 2 2 4

11
x2 2 2
22
1 2
x 24
2
1 2
x 2
2
x2 = 4
x = 2
d = the positive real root = 2
00-01 1 2 2 33 3 17 4 47 5 4
Individual 6 147 7 3.5 8 75 9 9 10 36
60 7
1 2 36 3 10 4 8 5
00-01 11 9
Group 3
6 7 7 2 8 120 9 3 10
11
Individual Events
1 1
I1 + .
If 4a = 25b = 10, find the value of
a b
Reference: 2003FG2.2, 2004 FG4.3, 2005 HI9, 2006 FG4.3
log 4a = log 25b = log 10
a log 4 = b log 25 = 1
1 1
+ = log 4 + log 25 = log (425) = log 100 = 2
a b
Method 2
1 1
a b
4 = 10 , 25 = 10
1 1
425 = 10 a 10 b
1 1
+
102 = 100 = 10 a b
1 1
+ =2
a b
I2 In figure 1, ABC is a straight line, AB = AD,
BDC = 38, CD is a tangent to the circle ABD.
Let BCD = x, find the value of x.
BAD = BDC = 38 ( in alt. segment)
ADB = ABD (base s isosceles )
= (180 38) 2 (s sum of )
= 71
x = ABD BDC = 71 38 = 33 (ext. of )
I3 If p = 10x 4xy 5x2 y2 8, where x and y are real numbers, find the largest value of p.
p = x2 + 10x 8 (4x2 + 4xy + y2)
= 17 (x 5)2 (2x + y)2
17 = the largest value
I4 If the following three straight lines intersect at one point, find the value of c.
L1: 6x + 6y 19 = 0 (1)
L2: 18x + 12y + c = 0 (2)
L 3 : 2x + 3y 8 = 0 (3)
(1) 2(3): 2x 3 = 0 x = 1.5 (4)
5
Sub. x = 1.5 into (3): 3 + 3y 8 = 0 y =
3
5
Sub. x = 1.5, y = into (2): 27 + 20 + c = 0
3
c = 47
I5 It is known that 2 6 cos2 = 7 sin cos , find the largest value of tan .
2(sin2 + cos2 ) 6 cos2 = 7 sin cos
2 sin2 7 sin cos 4 cos2 = 0
Divide the equation by cos2 : 2 tan2 7 tan 4 = 0
(2 tan + 1)(tan 4) = 0
1
tan = or 4
2
The largest value of tan = 4
I6 The total cost for 88 tickets was $ 293 . Because the printing machine was not functioning
well, the first and the last digits of the 5-digit number were missing. If the cost for each ticket
is $P, where P is an integer, find the value of P.
Let the total cost of 88 tickets be 10000a + 2930 + b, where a, b are integers between 0 and 9.
88P = 10000a + 2930 + b
= (88113 + 56)a + (8833 + 26) + b
= 88(113a + 33) + 56a + 26 + b
56a + 26 + b = multiple of 88
One possible guess is a = 1, b = 6
P = 113 + 33 + 1 = 147
I7 If p is the positive real root of 2x3 + 7x2 29x 70 = 0, find the value of p.
Let f(x) = 2x3 + 7x2 29x 70.
f(2) = 16 + 28 + 58 70 = 0
(x + 2) is a factor
f(5) = 250 + 175 + 145 70 = 0
(x + 5) is a factor
By comparing coefficients, f(x) = (x + 2)(x + 5)(2x 7) = 0
The positive root is 3.5, p = 3.5
I8 Two persons A, B can complete a task in 30 days when they work together. If they work
together for 6 days and then A quits, B needs 40 days more in order to complete the task. If
1
the proportion of the task A can finish each day is , find the value of q.
q
Suppose B can finish the task alone in p days.
1 1 1
Then + = ............(1)
p q 30
1 1 40
6 + + = 1 ...............(2)
p q p
1 1 1
From (1): = ..........(3)
p 30 q
6 1 1
Sub. (3) into (2): + 46 = 1
q 30 q
23 40
1 =
15 q
8 40
=
15 q
q = 75
I9 Let a, b, c be three distinct constants. It is given that

a2 b2 c2 p + qx + rx 2
+ +
(a b )(a c )(a + x ) (b c )(b a )(b + x ) (c a )(c b )(c + x ) (a + x )(b + x )(c + x )
where p, q r are constants, and s = 7p + 8q + 9r, find the value of s.
Theorem If , , are three distinct roots of dx2 + ex + f = 0, then d = e = f = 0.
Proof: The quadratic equation has at most two distinct roots. If , , are three distinct roots,
then it is identically equal to 0. i.e. d = e = f = 0.
Now multiply the given equation by (a + x)(b + x)(c + x):

a 2 (b + x )(c + x ) b 2 (a + x )(c + x ) c 2 (a + x )(b + x )
+ + p + qx + rx 2
(a b )(a c ) (b c )(b a ) (c a )(c b )
Put x = a, b, c respectively.
a 2 = p qa + ra 2 a 2 (r 1) qa p = 0
2 2
b = p qb + rb b (r 1) qb p = 0
2
c 2 = p qc + rc 2 c 2 (r 1) qc p = 0

a, b and c are three distinct roots of (r 1)x2 qx p = 0
By the above theorem, p = 0, q = 0, r = 1.
s = 7p + 8q + 9r = 9
I10 In figure 2, ABEF, BCDE are two squares,

BE = 6 cm, and AE and CE are the arcs
drawn with centres F and D respectively. If
the total area of the shaded parts is S cm2,
find the value of S. (Assume = 3.)
Radii of the two quadrants = 6
The two unshaded triangles are identical,
base = height = 6 sin 45 = 3 2
Shaded area = area of 2 quadrants area of 2 unshaded s
= 2
( )
62 3 2 2
= 36
4 2

Group Events
G1 The time on the clock face is now one oclock. After p minutes, the minute hand overlaps with
the hour hand, find the minimum value of p.
In one hour, the minute hand rotated 360, the hour hand rotated 30.
So the minute hand is 330 faster than the hour hand for every hour (= every 60 minutes).
At one o'clock, the minute hand is 30 behind of the hour hand.
After p minutes, the minute hand will catch up the hour hand.
p 60
By ratio, o
=
30 330 o
60
p=
11
G2 In how many ways can 10 identical balls be distributed into 3 different boxes such that no box
is to be empty?
Reference: 2006 HI6, 2010 HI1, 2012 HI2
Align the 10 balls in a row. There are 9 gaps between the 10 balls. Put 2 sticks into two of
| |
98
2
G3 Let x = 3 5 + 3 + 5 and y = x2, find the value of y.
2
y = 3 5 + 3 + 5

=3 5 +3+ 5 + 2 9 5
= 6 + 22 = 10
4a 2 2 4 8 16
G4 If + + + + , find the value of a.
1 x 16
1 x 1+ x 1+ x 2
1+ x 4
1 + x8
4a 2 2 4 8 16
+ + + +
1 x 16
1 x 1+ x 1+ x 2
1+ x 4
1 + x8
4 4 8 16
+ + +
1 x 2
1+ x 2
1+ x 4
1 + x8
8 8 16
+ +
1 x 4
1+ x 4
1 + x8
16 16 32
+
1 x 1 + x 1 x16
8 8
a=8
G5 In figure 1, ADE is a right circular cone. Suppose the cone is
divided into two parts by a cut running parallel to the base and
1
made of the way up, the ratio of the slant surface of the small
4
cone ABC to that of the truncated base BCDE is 1 : k, find the
value of k. (Reference: 2000 FG5.3)
curved surface area of small cone : that of large cone
= 32 : 42 = 9 : 16
curved surface area of small cone : that of the frustum
7 7
= 9 : (16 9) = 9 : 7 = 1 : k=
9 9
G6 If a ten-digit number 2468m2468m is divisible by 3, find the maximum value of m.

2 + 4 + 6 + 8 + m + 2 + 4 + 6 + 8 + m = 3k
40 + 2m = 3k
2m = 2, 8 or 14
m = 1, 4, or 7
Maximum = 7
4
G7 Find the area enclosed by the x-axis and the straight
lines x 3y = 0, x + y 4 = 0.
From the figure, the vertices of the enclosed area are x + y -4 = 0
(0,0), (4, 0), (3, 1) 2
1
The area = 4 1 = 2 A(3, 1)
2 x - 3y = 0
B(4, 0)
G8 In figure 2, PQR is a triangle, S is the mid-point of PQ,

RQ = PS = SQ, and RQS = 2RPS. Let PSR = x,
Let RPS = y, RQS = 2y (given)
QRS = QSR = 90 y (s sum of isos. )
PRS = QSR SPR = 90 y y = 90 2y
PRQ = PRS +QRS = 90 2y+90y = 180 3y
Apply sine formula on PQR
PQ RQ R
=
sin PRQ sin QPR
M N
2 1
=
( )
sin 180 o 3 y o sin y o y y
y
2 sin y = 3 sin y 4 sin3 y P S Q

2
4 sin y = 1
sin y = 0.5, y = 30
x = 180 (90 y) = 120 (adj. on st. line)
Method 2 Let RPS = y, RQS = 2y (given)
Let M and N be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from S on PR and Q from RS respectively.
QSN QRN (R.H.S.)
RQN = y = SQN (corr. s 's)
PSM QSN QRN (A.A.S.)
MS = NS = NR (corr. sides 's)
MS 1
sin MRS = = ; MRS = 30, MSR = 60 (s sum of MRS)
RS 2
90 y + 60 + 90 y = 180 (adj. on st. line PSQ)
y = 30
x = PSR = 90 y + 60 = 120
G9 If x satisfies the equation |x 3| + |x 5| = 2, find the minimum value of x.

Method 1
Case 1: x 3, 3 x + 5 x = 2, x = 3
Case 2: 3 < x 5, x 3 + 5 x = 2, always true, 3 < x 5
Case 3: 5 < x, x 3 + x 5 = 2, x = 5, no solution
Combined solution: 3 x 5
The minimum value of x = 3
Method 2
2 = |x 3| + |5 x| |x 3 + 5 x| = 2
Equality holds when x 3 and 5 x
the minimum value of x = 3
G10 3 shoes are chosen randomly from 6 pairs of shoes with different models, find the probability
that exactly two out of the three shoes are of the same model.
In order that exactly two out of the three shoes are of the same model, either
1
Case 1 the first two chosen shoes are of the same model. (Probability = 1 ) or
11
10 1 1
Case 2 the last two chosen shoes are of the same model. (Probability = 1 = ) or
11 10 11
10 1 1
Case 3 the first and the 3rd chosen shoes are of the same model. (Probability = 1 = )
11 10 11
1 1 1 3
Required probability = + + =
11 11 11 11
Individual Events
I1 P 1 I2 P 12 I3 P 4 I4 P 35
Q 4 Q 14 Q 7 Q 10
R 2 R 1 R 14 R 10
S 32 S 2 S 34 S 222
Group Events
G1 a 4 G2 a 2 G3 a 3 G4 a 3840
b 1001 b 3 b 20 b 1
c 8 c 333333 c 14 c 3
d 3 d 46 d 15 d 1853
Individual Event 1
I1.1 a, b and c are the lengths of the opposite sides A, B and C of the ABC respectively.
a b
If C = 60 and + = P, find the value of P.
b+c a+c
c2 = a2 + b2 2abcos 60 = a2 + b2 ab a2 + b2 = c2 + ab
a b a (a + c ) + b(b + c )
P= + =
b+c a+c (b + c )(a + c )
a 2 + ac + b 2 + bc ab + ac + bc + c 2
P= = =1
ab + ac + bc + c 2 ab + ac + bc + c 2
I1.2 Given that f(x) = x2 + ax + b is the common factor of x3 + 4x2 + 5x + 6 and 2x3 + 7x2 + 9x + 10
If f(P) = Q, find the value of Q.
Let g(x) = x3 + 4x2 + 5x + 6; h(x) = 2x3 + 7x2 + 9x + 10
g(3) = 27 + 36 15 + 6 = 0, (x + 3) is a factor of g(x); by division, g(x) = (x + 3)(x2 + x + 2)
h(2.5)= 31.25+43.7522.5+10 = 0, (2x+5) is a factor of h(x); by division, h(x) = (2x+5)(x2+x+2)
f(x) = common factor = (x2 + x + 2)
Q = f(P) = f(1) = 1 + 1 + 2 = 4
1 1 Q a b
I1.3 Given that + = and + = R, find the value of R.
a b a+b b a
1 1 4
+ =
a b a+b
(a + b)2 = 4ab
a2 + 2ab + b2 = 4ab
a2 2ab + b2 = 0
(a b)2 = 0
a=b
a b
R= + =2
b a
a+b = R
I1.4 Given that 2 and a3 + b3 = S, find the value of S.
a + b = 12
2
a + b = 2 LL (1)
2
a + b = 12LL (2)
2
(1)2 (2): 2ab = 8

ab = 4

a + b = 2
S = a3 + b3 = (a + b)(a2 ab + b2) = 2(12 + 4) = 32
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Suppose P is an integer and 5 < P < 20. If the roots of the equation
x2 2(2P 3)x + 4P2 14P + 8 = 0 are integers, find the value of P.
= 4(2P 3)2 4(4P2 14P + 8) = m2
2
m 2 2
= 4P 12P + 9 4P + 14P 8 = 2P + 1

2
Q 5 < P < 20 11 < 2P + 1 < 41
The only odd square lying in this interval is 25
2P + 1 = 25 = 52
P = 12
I2.2 ABCD is a rectangle. AB = 3P + 4, AD = 2P + 6. A B
AE and CF are perpendiculars to the diagonal BD.
If EF = Q, find the value of Q. F
3
AB = 40, AD = 30, BD = 50, let ADB = , cos =
5
3 E
DE = AD cos = 30 = 18 = BF
5
EF = 50 18 18 = 14 D C
1
I2.3 There are less than 4Q students in a class. In a mathematics test, of the students got grade
3
1
A, of the students got grade B, half of the students got grade C, and the rest failed. Given
7
that R students failed in the mathematics test, find the value of R.
4Q = 56, let the number of students be x, then x is divisible by 2, 3 and 7.
i.e. x is divisible by 42, as x < 56, so x = 42
1 1 1
R = number of students failed in mathematics = 42 1 = 1; R = 1
3 7 2
1
I2.4 [a] represents the largest integer not greater than a. For example, 2 = 2.
3
Given that the sum of the roots of the equation [3x + R ] = 2 x +
3
is S, find the value of S.
2
Reference: 1994 HG9
3 3
[3x + 1] = 2x + 3x + 1 = 2x + + a, where 0 a < 1
2 2
1 1 3
a=x 0 x < 1 2.5 2x + < 4.5
2 2 2
3 3
Q2x + is an integer 2x + = 4 or 3
2 2
x = 0.75 or 1.25
S = 0.75 + 1.25 = 2
Individual Event 3
I3.1 ABCD is a trapezium such that ADC = BCD = 60 and
1
AB = BC = AD = CD. If this trapezium is divided into P
2
equal portions (P > 1) and each portion is similar to
trapezium ABCD itself, find the minimum value of P.
From the graph, P = 4 A B
D C
I3.2 The sum of tens and unit digits of (P + 1)2001 is Q. Find the value of Q.
52001 = 100a + 25, where a is a positive integer.
Q = 2 + 5 = 7.
I3.3 If sin 30 + sin2 30 + + sinQ 30 = 1 cosR 45, find the value of R.

1 1 1 1 1
+ 2 + 3 +L+ 7 = 1 R
2 2 2 2 2
1 1
1 7
= 1 R
2 22
R = 14
1 1
I3.4 Let and be the roots of the equation x2 8x + (R + 1) = 0. If and are the roots
2
2
of the equation 225x2 Sx + 1 = 0, find the value of S.
x2 8x + 15 = 0, = 3, = 5
1 1 1 1 34 S
+ 2= + = =
2
9 25 225 225
S = 34
Individual Event 4
2 2 1 2 2 1
I4.1 Let a 3 + b 3 = 17 , x = a + 3a 3 b 3 and y = b + 3a 3 b 3 . If P = (x + y ) 3 + (x y ) 3 , find the value of P.
1 2 2
2
2 2
P = a + 3a 3 b 3 + 3a 3 b 3 + b + a 3a 3 b 3 + 3a 3 b 3 b
2 1 1 2 3 2 1 1 2 3

3 2 3 2
= a 3 + b 3 1
1 1 3 1 3
+ a 3 b3

2 2
P = a 3 + b 3 + a 3 b 3
1 1 1 1

2 1 1 2 2 1 1 2
= a + 2a b + a + a 2a 3 b 3 + a 3
3 3 3 3 3
= 2 a 3 + a 3
2 2

= 217.5 = 35
I4.2 If a regular Q-sided polygon has P diagonals, find the value of Q.
The number of diagonals = QC2 Q = 35
Q (Q 1)
Q = 35
2
Q2 3Q 70 = 0
Q = 10
Q Q Q Q x6 + y6
I4.3 Let x = + and y = . If R = , find the value of R.
2 2 2 2 40
R=
(x )(
+ y2 x4 + y4 x2 y2
2
)
40

2 2
Q
+ Q + Q Q Q + Q + Q Q Q + Q Q Q
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

=
40
2
Q
2 2

2
Q Q + Q
Q 2 + 2
2 2 2 2

=
40
=
2
(
10 5 + 3 5
= 10
)
40
I4.4 [a] represents the largest integer not greater than a. For example, [2.5] = 2.
2001 2001 2001
If S = + + +L, find the value of S.
R R2 R3
=
2001 2001 2001
S + + +L
10 100 1000
= 200 + 20 + 2 + 0 + = 222
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that (a + b + c)2 = 3(a2 + b2 + c2) and a + b + c = 12, find the value of a.
Sub. (2) into (1), 122 = 3(a2 + b2 + c2)
a2 + b2 + c2 = 48 (3)
(a + b + c)2 = a2 + b2 + c2 + 2(ab + bc + ca)
122 = 48 + 2(ab + bc + ca)
ab + bc +ca =48
2[a2 + b2 + c2 (ab + bc + ca)] = (a b)2 + (b c)2 + (c a)2
2[48 48] = 0 = (a b)2 + (b c)2 + (c a)2
a=b=c
a + b + c = 3a = 12
a=4
12 22 1000 2
G1.2 Given that b
1 1 1
+ +L+ = 2 + +L+ , find the value of b
1 3 3 5 1999 2001 1 3 3 5 1999 2001
1 1 1 1 r2 1 1 1 1
Note that = and = +
(2r 1) (2r + 1) 2 2 r 1 2r + 1 (2r 1) (2r + 1) 4 8 2r 1 2r + 1
= 1 + + L +
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1000
+ +L+ = 1 =
1 3 3 5 1999 2001 2 3 3 5 1999 2001 2 2001 2001
12 22 1000 2
= + 1 + + + L + +
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
+ +L+ (1000 terms)
1 3 3 5 1999 2001 4 8 3 4 8 3 5 4 8 1999 2001
1000 1 1 1 1 1 1 1000 1 1
= + 1 + + L + = + 1
4 8 3 3 5 1999 2001 4 8 2001
1 250 2002
= 2501 +
1000 1 2000 250
= + = 250 + =
4 8 2001 2001 2001 2001
1000 250 2002
The given equation becomes: b = 2 b = 1001
2001 2001
G1.3 A six-digit number 1234xy is divisible by both 8 and 9. Given that x +y = c, find the value of c.
The number formed by last 3 digits must be divisible by 8 and the sum of digits must be
divisible by 9. i.e. 400 + 10x + y is divisible by 8 and 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + x + y = 9m
10x + y = 8n (1); x + y = 9m 10 (2)
(1) (2): 9x = 8n 9m + 9 + 1
n = 1 or 10
When n = 1, (1) has no solution; when n = 10, x = 8, y = 0; c = x + y = 8
G1.4 Suppose logx t = 6, logy t = 10 and logz t = 15. If logxyz t = d, find the value of d.
log t log t log t
= 6, = 10, = 15
log x log y log z
log x 1 log y 1 log z 1
= , = , =
log t 6 log t 10 log t 15
log x log y log z 1 1 1 10 1
+ + = + + = =
log t log t log t 6 10 15 30 3
log x + log y + log z 1
=
log t 3
log xyz 1
=
log t 3
log t
d= =3
log xyz
Group Event 2
x 2 4x + 5
G2.1 Given that x = 7 4 3 and = a , find the value of a.
x 2 4x + 3
Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 1999 HG3, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
Reference: 1993 HI9, 2000HG1, 2007 HG3, 2009HG2
x = 7 4 3 = 4 2 12 + 3
2 2
= 4 2 4 3+ 3
= ( 4 3 )
2
= 4 3=2 3
3 = 2 x
3 = (2 x)2
x2 4x + 1 = 0
x 2 4x + 5 x 2 4x + 1 + 4
a= 2 = =2
x 4x + 3 x 2 4x + 1 + 2
G2.2 E is an interior point of the rectangle ABCD. Given that the lengths
D C
of EA, EB, EC and ED are 2, 11 , 4 and b respectively, find the
value of b. b 4
Reference: 1994 FG10.1-2, 2003 FI3.4
P, Q R, S be the foot of perpendiculars drawn from E onto AB, BC, 2 11
E
CD, DA respectively. A B
Using Pythagoras Theorem, it can be proved that
p2 + s2 = 4 ..............(1)
D R C
p2 + q2 = 11 ............(2)
q2 + r2 = 16 ............(3) b r 4
2 2 2
r + s = b .............(4) s q
2
S Q
(1) + (3) (2) (4): 0 = 4 + 16 11 b 2 p E 11
b=3 A B
P
G2.3 Given that 111111222222 = c(c + 1), find the value of c.

Reference 1996 FG7.2 111aaa = b(b + 1)
111111222222 = 111111000000 + 222222
= 1111111000000 + 2111111
= 1111111000002
111111222222 = 1111113333334 = 333333 333334
c = 333333
G2.4 Given that cos 16 = sin 14 + sin d and 0 < d < 90, find the value of d.
sin d = cos 16 sin 14
sin d = sin 74 sin 14
sin d = 2 cos 88 sin 30
sin d = cos 44 = sin 46
d = 46
Group Event 3
G3.1 Given that the solution of the equation 3 x + 1 + 3 x + 6 = 4 x 2 + 4 x + 3 is a, find the
value of a.
3x + 6 4 x 2 = 4 x + 3 3x + 1
( 3x + 6 4 x 2 ) =(
2
4 x + 3 3x + 1 )2
3x + 6 + 4 x 2 2 12 x 2 + 18 x 12 = 4 x + 3 + 3x + 1 2 12 x 2 + 13x + 3
12 x 2 + 18 x 12 = 12 x 2 + 13x + 3
12x2 + 18x 12 = 12x2 + 13x + 3
x=3
G3.2 Suppose the equation x2y x2 3y 14 = 0 has only one positive integral solution (x0, y0). If
x0 + y0 = b, find the value of b.
(y 1)x2 = 3y + 14
3 y + 14 3 y 3 + 17 17
x2 = = =3+ =3+1
y 1 y 1 y 1
y = 18, x = 2
b = 20
G3.3 ABCD is a cyclic quadrilateral. AC and BD intersect
at G. Suppose AC =16 cm, BC = CD = 8 cm,
BG = x cm and GD = y cm. If x and y are integers and
x + y = c, find the value of c.
B
As shown in the figure, let CG = t, AG = 16 t.
Let CBG = , ACB = .

x 8
Then CAB = (eq. chords eq. s) A G
Then BCG ~ ACB (equiangular) 16-t
t : 8 = 8 : 16 (ratio of sides, ~s) y t C
t=4
It is easy to see that ADG ~ BCG (equiangular)
8
(16 t) : y = x : t (ratio of sides, ~s)
(16 4)4 = xy
D
xy = 48
Assume that x and y are integers, then possible pairs
of (x, y) are (1,48), (2, 24), ...., (6, 8), ..., (48, 1).
Using triangle inequality x + t > 8 and 8 + t > x in
BCG, the only possible combinations are:
(x, y) = (6, 8) or (8, 6)
c = x + y = 14
log 0.5
1
G3.4 Given that 5 log 30
= d , find the value of d.
3
1
log 30 log 5 + log 0.5 log = log d
3
10
log (310) log +(log 2)(log 3) = log d
2
(log 3 + 1)(1 log 2) + log 2 log 3 = log d
log 3 + 1 log 3 log 2 log 2 + log 2 log 3 = log d
3 10
log d = log 3 + 1 log 2 = log
2
d = 15
Group Event 4
n
G4.1 x1 = 2001. When n > 1, x n = . Given that x1x2x3x10 = a, find the value of a.
x n 1
2
x2 = x1x2 = 2
x1
4
x4 = x3x4 = 4
x3
6
x6 = x5x6 = 6
x5
8
x8 = x7x8 = 8
x7
10
x10 = x9x10 = 10
x9
Multiply these equations gives a = x1x2x3x10 = 246810 = 32120 = 3840
G4.2 Given that the unit digit of 13 + 23 + 33 + + 20013 is b, find the value of b.
Arrange the numbers in groups of 10 in ascending order, the unit digit of sum each group is
the same (except the last number, 20013).
13 + 23 + L + 103 1 + 8 + 7 + 4 + 5 + 6 + 3 + 2 + 9 + 0 (mod 10)
5 (mod 10)
1 + 2 + L + 20003 + 20013 200(5) + 1 (mod 10)
3 3
So b = 1
G4.3 A and B ran around a circular path with constant speeds. They started from the same place and
at the same time in opposite directions. After their first meeting, B took 1 minute to go back to
the starting place. If A and B need 6 minutes and c minutes respectively to complete one
round of the path, find the value of c.
1 1 c+6
In one minute, A and B ran + = of the total distance.
6 c 6c
6c
They will meet at the first time after minutes.
c+6
6c
After 1 more minute, (i.e. total time elapsed = + 1 minutes), B retuned to the starting
c+6
point. So 1
6c
+ 1 = 1
c + 6 c
6c + c + 6 = c2 + 6c
c2 c 6 = 0
(c 3)(c + 2) = 0
c=3
G4.4 The roots of the equation x2 45x + m = 0 are prime numbers. Given that the sum of the
squares of the roots is d, find the value of d.
Let the roots be , . + = 45, = m
The sum of two prime numbers + = 45
= 2, = 43 (2 is the only even prime number)
d = 2 + 2 = 4 + 432 = 1853
170
1 2 3 3 10 4 35 5 540
99-00 891
Individual 1
6 190 7 8 428571 9 24 10 0
3
99-00 1 3 2 5 3 6 4 10 5 10
Group 6 60 7 0.93 8 421 9 12 10 0
Individual Events

I1 Let x 0.17 0.017 0.0017 ... , find the value of x . (Reference: 2009 HI1)
17 17 17 17 1
0.17 = ; 0.017 = ; 0.0017 = , It is an infinite geometric series, a = , r =
99 990 9900 99 10
17 17 17
x=
99 990 9900
17 1 1
= 1
99 10 100
17 10 170
= =
99 9 891
I2 Solve the following equation:
1 1 1 1 1 1 1

x 12 x 1x 2 x 2 x 3 x 3x 4 x 10x 11 x 11x 12 4
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

x 12 x 1 x 2 x 2 x 3 x 3 x 4 x 10 x 11 x 11 x 12 4
1 1

x 1 4
x=3
I3 Using digits 0, 1, 2, and 5, how many 3-digit numbers can be formed, which are divisible by 5?
(If no digit may be repeated.)
Possible numbers are: 105, 120, 125, 150, 205, 210, 215, 250, 510, 520.
Altogether 10 numbers.
I4 Figure 1 represents a 4 3 rectangular spiderweb. If a North D C

spider walks along the web from A to C and it always
walks either due East or due North. Find the total number A East B
of possible paths. Figure 1
D(1) C(35)
Reference: 1983 FI4.1, 1998 HG6, 2007 HG5 4 10 20
The numbers at each of the vertices of in the following
1
3 6 10 15
figure show the number of possible ways.
So the total number of ways = 35 1
2 3 4 5
A(1) 1 1 1 B(1)
I5 In Figure 2, let A+B+C+D+E+F+G = x, find A

the value of x.
Reference: 1992 HI13, 2012 FG3.2 B P V
G
In the figure, let P, Q, R, S, T, U, V be as shown.
AVP + BPQ + CQR + DRS + EST + FTU+GUV=360 Q U
(sum of ext. of polygon)
A = 180 (AVP + BPQ) (s sum of ) C
F
B = 180 (BPQ + CQR) (s sum of ) R
C = 180 (CQR + DRS) (s sum of ) T
D = 180 (DRS + EST) (s sum of ) S
E = 180 (EST + FTU) (s sum of ) D E
F = 180 (FTU + GUV) (s sum of )
G = 180 (GUV + AVP) (s sum of )
A+B+C+D+E+F+G =1807 2360
x = 540
I6 Twenty straight lines were drawn on a white paper. Among them, no two or more straight
lines are parallel; also no three or more than three straight lines are concurrent. What is the
maximum number of intersections that these 20 lines can form?
2 lines give at most 1 intersection.
3 lines give at most 3 intersections.
4 lines give at most 6 intersections. (6 = 1 + 2 + 3)
.................................................................................
1 19
20 lines give at most 1 + 2 + 3 + + 19 intersections = 19 = 190 intersections
2
I7 In a family of 2 children, given that one of them is a girl, what is the probability of having
another girl? (Assuming equal probabilities of boys and girls.)
Sample space = {(girl, boy), (girl, girl), (boy, girl)} and each outcome is equal probable.
1
P(another child is also a girl) =
3
I8 A particular 6-digit number has a unit-digit 1. Suppose this unit-digit 1 is moved to the
place of hundred thousands, while the original ten thousand-digit, thousand-digit,
hundred-digit, are moved one digit place to the right. The value of the new 6-digit number
is one-third of the value of the original 6-digit number. Find the original 6-digit number.
(Reference: 1986 FG8) Let the original number be: abcde 1 , and the new number be: 1abcde .
3 1abcde = abcde1
3(100000 + 10000a + 1000b + 100c + 10d + e) = 100000a+10000b + 1000c + 100d + 10e + 1
Compare the unit digit: e = 7 with carry digit 2 to the tens digit
Compare the tens digit: d = 5 with carry digit 1 to the hundreds digit
Compare the hundreds digit: c = 8 with carry digit 2 to the thousands digit
Compare the thousands digit: b = 2 with no carry digit to the ten-thousands digit
Compare the ten-thousands digit: a = 4 with carry digit 1 to the hundred-thousands digit
The original number is 428571
12 sin 2 48 12 sin 2 42
sin 330 tan 135 sin 2 48 sin 2 42 tan 180
12 sin 2 48 12 sin 2 42 12 sin 2 48 12 cos 2 48 12
= = =24
sin 330 tan 135 sin 2 48 sin 2 42 tan 180 1 1
1 sin 48 sin 42 0
2 2 2
2
I10 Find the shortest distance between the line 3x y 4 = 0 and the point (2, 2).
Ax 0 By 0 C 3 2 2 4
d= = =0
A B
2 2
3 2 12
Method 2 Sub. (2, 2) into 3x y 4 = 0, LHS = 32 2 4 = 0 = RHS
(2, 2) lies on the line, the shortest distance = 0
Group Events
a 5 3a 4 3a 3 a 2
G1 If a is a root of x2 + 2x + 3 = 0, find the value of .
a2 3
Reference: 1993 HI9, 2001 FG2.1, 2007 HG3, 2009 HG2
Divide (a5 + 3a4 + 3a3 a2) by (a2 + 2a + 3), quotient = a3 + a2 2a, remainder = 6a

a 5 3a 4 3a 3 a 2 a 2 2a 3 a 3 a 2 2a 6a
a2 3
=

a 2 2a 3 2 a
6a
= = 3
2a
G2 There are exactly n roots in the equation (cos2 1)(2 cos2 1) = 0, where 0 < < 360.
Find the value of n.
1 1
cos = 1, 1, or .
2 2
= 180, 45, 315, 135, 225

n=5
41 = 4, 42 = 16, 43 = 64, 44 = 256,
So the unit digit of 20042006 is 6.
G4 Let x = |y m| + |y 10| + |y m 10|, where 0 < m < 10 and m y 10. Find the minimum
value of x.
x = y m + 10 y + 10 y + m = 20 y 20 10 = 10
The minimum = 10
G5 There are 5 balls with labels A, B, C, D, E respectively and there are 5 pockets with labels A,
B, C, D, E respectively. A ball is put into each pocket. Find the number of ways in which
exactly 3 balls have labels that match the labels on the pockets.
First choose any 3 bags out of five bags. Put the balls according to their numbers. The
remaining 2 balls must be put in the wrong order.
The number of ways is 5C3 = 10.
G6 In Figure 1, PQR is an equilateral triangle,
PT = RS; PS, QT meet at M; and QN is
perpendicular to PS at N. Let QMN = x, find
the value of x.
PT = RS (given)
QPT = 60 = PRS ( of an equilateral )
PQ = PR (side of an equilateral )
PQT RPS (SAS)
PTQ = PSR (corr. s )
R, S, M, T are concyclic (ext. = int. opp. )
QMN= x =TRS =60 (ext. , cyclic quad.)
x = 60
G7 In Figure 2, three equal circles are tangent to P C Q

each other, and inscribed in rectangle PQRS,
QR
find the value of . (Use 3 1.7 and give
SR
the answer correct to 2 decimal places)
O1
Let the radii of the circles be r.
Suppose the 3 circles touch the rectangle at A,
B and C. Join O1O2, O2O3, O1O3, O1C, O2A,
O3B as shown. Then O1O2 = O2O3 = O1O3 = 2r
O1C = O2A = O3B = r
O1O2O3 is an equilateral O2 O3
QR = O1C + O1O2 sin 60 + O2A
3
= r + 2r + r = r(2 + 3 )
2 S B
QR A R
r 2 3 2 1.7 37
SR = 4r, = = = 0.93
SR 4r 4 40
G8 The sum of two positive integers is 29, find the minimum value of the sum of their squares.
Let the two numbers be a and b.
a2 + b2 = a2 + (29 a)2 = 2a2 58a + 841 = 2(a 14.5)2 + 420.5
a and b are integers, the minimum is attained when a = 15, b = 14
The minimum value of a2 + b2 = 152 + 142 = 225 + 196 = 421
G9 Let x = 3 3 and y = 3 3 , find the value of x2(1 + y2) + y2.

x2(1 + y2) + y2 = 3 3 1 3 3 3 3
= 3 3 4 3 3 3
= 12 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 = 12
Method 2
x2(1 + y2) + y2 = (x2 + 1)(y2 + 1) 1

= 3 3 1 3 3 1 1
= 16 3 1 = 12
G10 There are nine balls in a pocket, each one having an integer label from 1 to 9. A draws a ball
randomly from the pocket and puts it back, then B draws a ball randomly from the same
pocket. Let n be the unit digit of the sum of numbers on the two balls drawn by A and B, and
P(n) be the probability of the occurrence of n. Find the value of n such that P(n) is the
maximum.
P(1) = P((2,9), (3,8), (4,7), (5,6), (6,5), (7,4), (8,3), (9,2))
P(2) = P((1,1), (3,9), (4,8), (5,7), (6,6), (7,5), (8,4), (9,3))
P(3) = P((1,2), (2,1), (4,9), (5,8), (6,7), (7,6), (8,5), (9,4))
P(4) = P((1,3), (2,2), (3,1), (5,9), (6,8), (7,7), (8,6), (9,5))
P(5) = P((1,4), (2,3), (3,2), (4,1), (6,9), (7,8), (8,7), (9,6))
P(6) = P((1,5), (2,4), (3,3), (4,2), (5,1), (7,9), (8,8), (9,7))
P(7) = P((1,6), (2,5), (3,4), (4,3), (5,2), (6,1), (8,9), (9,8))
P(8) = P((1,7), (2,6), (3,5), (4,4), (5,3), (6,2), (7,1), (9,9))
P(9) = P((1,8), (2,7), (3,6), (4,5), (5,4), (6,3), (7,2), (8,1))
P(0) = P((1,9), (2,8), (3,7), (4,6), (5,5), (6,4), (7,3), (8,2), (9,1))
When n = 0, P(n) is a maximum.
Individual Events
SI P 6 I1 P 25 I2 P 16 I3 P 1 I4 P 2 I5 P 2
Q 7 Q 8 Q 81 Q 2 Q 12 Q 1
R 2 R 72 R 1 R 3996 R 12 R 1
S 9902 S 6 S 333332 S 666 S 2 S 0
Group Events
SG a 1 G1 a 243 G2 a 9025 G3 a 3994001 G4 a 504 G5 a 729000
b 15 b 25 b 9 b 5 b 3 b 12
c 80 c 4 c 6 c 3 c 60 c 26
d 1 d 3 d 40 d 38 d 48 d 3
Sample Individual Event (1999 Individual Event 3)
SI.1 For all integers m and n, m n is defined as m n = mn + nm. If 2 P = 100, find the value
of P.
2P + P2 = 100
64 + 36 = 26 + 62 = 100, P = 6
SI.2 If 3 13Q + 6 P + 1 3 13Q 6 P 1 = 3 2 , where Q > 0, find the value of Q.
( 13Q + 37
3 3 13Q 37 = 2)
3
13Q + 37 3 3 (13Q + 37 ) 13Q 37 +3 3 (13Q 37 ) 13Q + 37 (13Q 37) = 2

23 23
24 = 3 (13Q ) 37 2 3 13Q + 37 (13Q )2 37 2 3 13Q 37

2 3
24 = 3 (13Q ) 37 2 (Q 3 13Q + 37 3 13Q 37 = 3 2 )

2 3
2;
13824 = [(13Q)2 1369] 2
6912 + 1369 = 169 Q2
Q2 = 49 Q = 7
Method 2 3 13b + 37 3 13b 37 = 3 2 ,
3
8 2 3 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 16, 13b 37 = 2, no solution
3
27 2 3 8 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 54, 13b 37 = 16, no solution
3
64 2 3 27 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 128, 13b 37 = 54 b = 7
SI.3 In figure 1, AB = AC and KL = LM. If LC = Q 6 cm and A
KB = R cm, find the value of R.
Draw LN // AB on BM.
BN = NM intercept theorem K
L
LN = LC = Q 6 cm = 1 cm (sides opp. eq. s)
B N C M
R cm = KB = 2 LN = 2 cm (mid point theorem)
SI.4 The sequence {an} is defined as a1 = R, an+1 = an + 2n (n 1). If a100 = S, find the value of S.
a1= 2, a2 = 2 + 2, a3 = 2 + 2 + 4,
a100 = 2 + 2 + 4 + + 198
= 2 + (2 + 198) 99 = 9902= S
1
2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Let [x] represents the integral part of the decimal number x.
1 2 7
Given that [3.126] + [3.126+ ]+[3.126+ ]++[3.126+ ] = P, find the value of P.
8 8 8
1 2 7
P = [3.126] + [3.126+ ]+[3.126+ ]++[3.126+ ]
8 8 8
= 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 4 = 25
a2 b2 c2
I1.2 Let a + b + c = 0. Given that + + = P 3Q, find the value of Q.
2a 2 + bc 2b 2 + ac 2c 2 + ab
a2 b2 c2 Method 2
a = b c + +
2a 2 + bc 2b 2 + ac 2c 2 + ab a2 b2 c2
= 2
(b + c )2 +
b2
+
c2 Q 2 + +
2a + bc 2b 2 + ac 2c 2 + ab
=253Q
2b + 5bc + 2c 2 2b 2 bc c 2 2c 2 bc b 2 The above is an identity which holds for all
a2 b2 c2 values of a, b and c, provided that a+b+ c = 0
= + +
(2b + c )(b + 2c ) (2b + c )(b c ) (b + 2c )(c b ) Let a = 0, b = 1, c = 1, then
=
(b + c ) (b c ) + b 2 (b + 2c ) c 2 (2b + c )
2 1 1
0 + + = 25 3Q.
(2b + c )(b + 2c )(b c ) Q =
2 2
8
=
(b + c ) (b c ) + b 3 c 3 + 2bc(b c )
2
(2b + c )(b + 2c )(b c )

=
(b c )(b 2 + 2bc + c 2 + b 2 + bc + c 2 + 2bc )
(2b + c )(b + 2c )(b c )
=
(2b + 5bc + 2c 2 )
2
= 1 = 25 3Q Q = 8
(2b + c )(b + 2c )
I1.3 In the first quadrant of the rectangular co-ordinate plane, all
integral points are numbered as follows,

Given that point (Q1,Q) is numbered as R, find the value of R.

point (0, 8) is numbered as 65, point (1, 8) is numbered as 66, point (2, 8) is numbered as 67

(Q1, Q) = (7, 8) is numbered as 72
R
I1.4 When x + y = 4, the minimum value of 3x2 + y2 is , find the value of S.
S
72
3x2 + y2 = 3x2 + (4 x)2 = 4x2 8x + 16 = 4(x 1)2 + 12, min = 12 = ;S=6
S
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If log2(log4 P) = log4(log2 P) and P 1, find the value of P.
=
log 2 log 4
=
log 2 2 log 2
2 log(log4 P) = log(log2 P)
log(log4 P)2 = log(log2 P)
(log4 P)2 = log2 P
2
log P log P
=
log 4 log 2
log P 1
P 1, log P 0 =
(2 log 2) 2
log 2
log P = 4 log 2 = log 16
P = 16
I2.2 In the trapezium ABCD, AB // DC. AC and BD intersect at O. A B
The areas of triangles AOB and COD are P and 25
respectively. Given that the area of the trapezium is Q, find the O
value of Q.
Reference 1993 HI2, 1997 HG3, 2002 FI1.3, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
AOB ~ COD (equiangular) D C
area of AOB OA
2 2
16 OA
= ; =
area of COD OC 25 OC
OA : OC = 4 : 5
area of AOB 4
= (the two triangles have the same height, but different bases.)
area of BOC 5
5
Area of BOC = 16 = 20
4
Similarly, area of AOD = 20
Q = the area of the trapezium = 16 + 25 + 20 + 20 = 81
I2.3 When 1999Q is divided by 7, the remainder is R. Find the value of R.
199981 = (7285+4)81
= 7m + 481
= 7m + (43)27
= 7m + (79+1)27
= 7m + 7n + 1, where m and n are integers
R=1
I2.4 If 111111111111 222222 = (R + S)2 and S > 0, find the value of S.
111111111111 222222 = (1 + S)2
111111(1000001 2) = (1 + S)2
111111999999 = (1 + S)2
32 1111112 = (1 + S)2
1 + S = 333333
S = 333332
Individual Event 3
I3.1 Given that the unit digit of 1+2+3+...+1997+1998+1999+1998+1997+...+3+2+1 is P, find the
value of P.
1+2+3+...+1997+1998+1999+1998+1997+...+3+2+1
= 2(1 + 2 + + 1998) + 1999
= (1 + 1998)1998 +1999
P = unit digit = 1
1 1
I3.2 Given that x + = P. If x6 + 6 = Q, find the value of Q.
x x
1
x+ =1
x
2
1
x + = 1
x
1
x2 + 2 = 1
x
3
2 1
x + 2 = 1
x
1 1
x 6 + 6 + 3 x 2 + 2 = 1
x x
1
x6 + 6 = 2
x
Q=2
Q Q Q R
I3.3 Given that + +L+ = , find the
Q + 2Q 2Q + 3Q 1998Q + 1999Q Q + 1999Q
value of R.
2 2 2 R
+ +L+ =
2+ 4 4+ 6 3996 + 3998 2 + 3998
4 2 6 4 3998 3996 R
2 + +L+ =

42 64 3998 3996 2 + 3998
R
3998 2 =
3998 + 2
( )(
R = 3998 2 3998 + 2 = 3996 )
I3.4 Let f (0) = 0; f (n) = f (n 1) + 3 when n = 1, 2, 3, 4, . If 2f (S) = R, find the value of S.
f (1) = 0 + 3 = 3, f (2) = 3 + 3 = 32, f (3) = 33, , f (n) = 3n
R = 3996 = 2f (S) = 23S
S = 666
Individual Event 4
1 1
I4.1 Suppose a + =b+ 2 , where a 1, b 1, and a b + 2 0.
a +1 b 1
Given that ab a + b = P, find the value of P.
1 1
ab+2+ =0
a +1 b 1
1
(a b + 2)[1 ]=0
(a + 1)(b 1)
ab + b a 2 = 0
P=2
I4.2 In the following figure, AB is a diameter of the circle. C and D

divide the arc AB into three equal parts. The shaded area is P.
If the area of the circle is Q, find the value of Q.
Area of ACD = area of OCD
(same base, same height) and COD = 60
Shaded area = area of sector COD = 2
area of the circle = 6 2 = 12
I4.3 Given that there are R odd numbers in the digits of the product of the two Q-digit numbers
111111 and 999999, find the value of R.
Note that 99 11 = 1089; 999111 = 110889.
Deductively, 999999999999 111111111111 = 111111111110888888888889
R = 12 odd numbers in the digits.
I4.4 Let a1, a2, , aR be positive integers such that a1 < a2 < a3 < < aR-1 < aR. Given that the
sum of these R integers is 90 and the maximum value of a1 is S, find the value of S.
a1 + a2 + + a12 = 90
a1 + (a1 + 1) + (a1 + 2) + + (a1 + 11) 90
12a1 + 55 90
a1 2.9167
S = maximum value of a1 = 2
Individual Event 5
1
1 2 4 + 2 4 8 + 3 6 12 + L + 1999 3998 7996 3
I5.1 If = P, find the value of P.
13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3
1
1 2 4 + 2 4 8 + 3 6 12 + L + 1999 3998 7996 3
P =
13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3
( )
1
1 2 4 13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3 3
=
13 + 2 3 + 33 + L + 1999 3
1
3
=8 = 2
I5.2 If (x P)(x 2Q) 1 = 0 has two integral roots, find the value of Q.
(x 2)(x 2Q) 1 = 0
2
x 2(1 + Q)x + 4Q 1 = 0
Two integral roots is perfect square
= 4[(1 + Q)2 (4Q 1)]
= 4(Q2 2Q + 2)
= 4(Q 1)2 + 4
It is a perfect square Q 1 = 0, Q = 1
Method 2
(x 2)(x 2Q) = 1
(x 2 = 1 and x 2Q = 1) or (x 2 = 1 and x 2Q = 1)
(x = 3 and Q = 1) or (x = 1 and Q = 1)
Q=1
I5.3 Given that the area of the ABC is 3Q; D, E and F are
the points on AB, BC and CA respectively such that
1 1 1
AD = AB, BE = BC, CF = CA. If the area of DEF
3 3 3
is R, find the value of R.
R = 3 area ADF area BDE area CEF
= 3 ( 12 AD AF sin A + 12 BE BD sin B + 12 CE CF sin C )
=3 1
2
(c3 23b sin A + 23c a3 sin B + 23a b3 sin C )
=3 2
9
(12 bc sin A + 12 ac sin B + 12 ab sin C )
=3 2
9
(3 area of ABC)
= 3 92 9 = 1
I5.4 Given that (Rx2 x + 1)1999 a0 + a1x + a2x2 + + a3998x3998 .
If S = a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3997, find the value of S.
(x2 x + 1)1999 a0 + a1x + a2x2 + + a3998x3998
compare coefficients of x3998 on both sides, a3998 = 1
Put x = 1, 11999 = a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3998
S = a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3997
= (a0 + a1 + a2 + + a3998) a3998
=11=0

SG.1 Let x * y = x + y xy, where x, y are real numbers. If a = 1 * (0 * 1), find the value of a.
0*1=0+10=1
a = 1 * (0 * 1)
=1*1
=1+11=1
SG.2 In figure 1, AB is parallel to DC, ACB is a right angle, D C
BCD = 135 A B
BD BC
=
sin 135 sin D
AB sin 45
sin D
1
sin D = ; D = 30
2
CBD = 180 135 30 = 15 (s sum of BCD)
b = 15
SG.3 Let x, y be non-zero real numbers. If x is 250% of y and 2y is c% of x, find the value of c.
x = 2.5y ..............(1)
c
2y = x .........(2)
100
c
sub. (1) into (2): 2y = 2 .5 y
100
c = 80
SG.4 If logp x = 2, logq x = 3, logr x = 6 and logpqr x = d, find the value of d.

log x log x log x
=2; = 3; =6
log p log q log r
= ; = ; =
+ + = + + =1
log pqr
=1
log x
log x
=1
log pqr
d = logpqr x = 1
Group Event 1
G1.1 Given that when 81849, 106392 and 124374 are divided by an integer n, the remainders are
equal. If a is the maximum value of n, find a.
81849 = pn + k (1)
106392 = qn + k (2)
124374 = rn + k (3)
(2) (1): 24543 = (q p)n (4)
(3) (2): 17982 = (r q)n (5)
(4): 243 101 = (q p)n
(5): 243 74 = (r q)n
a = maximum value of n = 243
1 3 1+ 3
G1.2 Let x = and y = . If b = 2x2 3xy + 2y2, find the value of b.
1+ 3 1 3
b = 2x 3xy + 2y = 2x 4xy + 2y2 + xy = 2(x y)2 + xy
2 2 2
2
1 3 1+ 3 1 3 1+ 3
= 2 +

1+ 3 1 3 1+ 3 1 3
( ) ( )
2
1 3 2 1+ 3 2
= 2 +1
1 3

2
4 3
= 2 + 1 = 25

2
G1.3 Given that c is a positive number. If there is only one straight line which passes through point
A(1, c) and meets the curve C: x2 + y2 2x 2y 7 = 0 at only one point, find the value of c.
The curve is a circle.
There is only one straight line which passes through point A and meets the curve at only one
point the straight line is a tangent and the point A(1, c) lies on the circle.
(otherwise two tangents can be drawn if A lies outside the circle)
Put x = 1, y = c into the circle.
1 + c2 2 2c 7 = 0
c2 2c 8 = 0
(c 4)(c + 2) = 0
c = 4 or c = 2 (rejected)
G1.4 In Figure 1, PA touches the circle with centre O at A.

If PA = 6, BC = 9, PB = d, find the value of d.
It is easy to show that PAB ~ PCA
PA PC
= (ratio of sides, ~'s)
PB PA
6 9+d
=
d 6
36 = 9d + d2
d2 + 9d 36 = 0
(d 3)(d + 12) = 0
d = 3 or 12 (rejected)
Group Event 2
G2.1 If 191 is the difference of two consecutive perfect squares, find the value of the smallest
square number, a.
Let a = t2, the larger perfect square is (t +1)2
(t + 1)2 t2 = 191
2t + 1 = 191
t = 95
a = 952 = 9025
1
G2.2 In Figure 2(a), ABCD is a rectangle. DE:EC = 1: 5, and DE = 12 4 . BCE is folded along the
side BE. If b is the area of the shaded part as shown in Figure 2(b), find the value of b.
A D C
F G
E A D
60
E
30
B C
B
Let DE = t, then CE = 5t. Suppose BC intersects AD at F, CE intersects AD at G.
BC = BC' = AD = 5t tan 60 = 5 3 t
CED = 60, ABC = 30, CFG = 60, CGF = 30
AF = 6t tan 30 = 2 3 t, DG = t tan 60 = 3 t
FG = 5 3 t 2 3 t 3 t = 2 3 t
CF = 2 3 t cos 60 = 3 t, CG = 2 3 t cos 30 = 3t
1 3 3 2 3 3
Area of CFG = 3t 3t = t = 12 =9
2 2 2
2
G2.3 Let the curve y = x 7x + 12 intersect the x-axis at points A and B, and intersect the y-axis at
C. If c is the area of ABC, find the value of c.
x2 7x + 12 = (x 3)(x 4)
The x-intercepts of 3, 4.
Let x = 0, y = 12
c = (4 3) 12 = 6 sq. units
1
2
G2.4 Let f (x) = 41x2 4x + 4 and g(x) = 2x2 + x. If d is the smallest value of k such that
f (x) + kg(x) = 0 has a single root, find d.
41x2 4x + 4 + k(2x2 + x) = 0
(41 2k)x2 + (k 4)x + 4 = 0
It has a single root = 0 or 41 2k = 0
41
(k 4)2 4(41 2k)(4) = 0 or k =
2
41
k2 8 + 16 1641 + 32k = 0 or k =
2
41
k2 + 24k 640 = 0 or k =
2
41
k = 16 or 40 or , d = the smallest value of k = 40
2
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let a = 1997 1998 1999 2000 + 1 , find the value of a.
Let t = 1998.5, then 1997 = t 1.5, 1998 = t 0.5, 1999 = t + 0.5, 2000 = t + 1.5
1997 1998 1999 2000 + 1 = (t 1.5) (t 0.5) (t + 0.5) (t + 1.5) + 1
= (t 2
) ( ) 9 1
2.25 t 2 0.25 + 1 = t 2 t 2 + 1
4 4
2
10 25 5
4
= t t2 + = t 2 = t2 1.25
4 16 4
= 1998.5 1.25 = (2000 1.5)2 1.25
2
= 4000000 6000 + 2.25 1.25 = 3994001

G3.2 In Figure 3, A and B are two cones inside a 20
cylindrical tube with length of 20 and diameter
of 6. If the volumes of A and B are in the ratio 6
A B
3:1 and b is the height of the cone B, find the
value of b.
32 (20 b ) : 3 2 b = 3 : 1
1 1
3 3
20 b = 3b
b=5
10 10
G3.3 If c is the largest slope of the tangents from the point A , to the circle C: x2 +y2 =1,
2 2
10 10
Let the equation of tangent be y = c x

2 2
cx y +
10
(1 c ) = 0
2
Distance form centre (0, 0) to the straight line = radius
00+ 10
(1 c )
2
=1
c 2 + ( 1)2
5
(1 c )2 = c 2 + 1
2
5 10c + 5c2 = 2c2 + 2
3c2 10c + 3 = 0
(3c 1)(c 3) = 0
1
c = or 3. The largest slope = 3.
3
G3.4 P is a point located at the origin of the coordinate plane. When a dice is thrown and the
number n shown is even, P moves to the right by n. If n is odd, P moves upward by n. Find
the value of d, the total number of tossing sequences for P to move to the point (4, 4).
Possible combinations of the die:
2,2,1,1,1,1. There are 6C2 permutations, i.e. 15.
4,1,1,1,1. There are 5C1 permutations, i.e. 5.
2,2,1,3. There are 4C2 2 permutations, i.e. 12.
4,1,3. There are 3! permutations, i.e. 6.
Total number of possible ways = 15 + 5 + 12 + 6 = 38.
Group Event 4
G4.1 Let a be a 3-digit number. If the 6-digit number formed by putting a at the end of the number
504 is divisible by 7, 9, and 11, find the value of a.
Reference: 2010 HG1
Note that 504 is divisible by 7 and 9. We look for a 3-digit number which is a multiple of 63
and that 504000 + a is divisible by 11. 504504 satisfied the condition.
8 + 64 2 8 64 2
G4.2 In Figure 4, ABCD is a rectangle with AB = and BC = . BE

and BF are the arcs of circles with centers at C and A respectively. If b is the total area of the
shaded parts, find the value of b.
AB = AF, BC = CE
Shaded area = sector ABF rectangle ABCD + sector BCE

= AB 2 AB BC + BC 2
4 4
2 2

8 + 64 2 8 + 64 2 8 64 2 8 64 2
= +
4 4
=
8 + 64 2
+
8 64 2 (
64 64
2
)
4 2

16
2
= =41=3=b
4 2
G4.3 In Figure 5, O is the centre of the circle and B

c = 2y. Find the value of c.
BOC = 2c ( at centre twice at ce)
y + y + 2c = 180 (s sum of OBC)
2y + 2c = 180
O
c + 2c = 180
y
c = 60 c
A C
G4.4 A, B, C, D, E, F, G are seven people sitting around a circular table. If d is the total number of
ways that B and G must sit next to C, find the value of d.
Reference: 1998 FI5.3, 2011 FI1.4
If B, C, G are neighbours, we can consider these persons bound together as one person. So,
there are 5 persons sitting around a round table. The number of ways should be 5!. Since it is
a round table, every seat can be counted as the first one. That is, ABCDE is the same as
BCDEA, CDEAB, DEABC, EABCD. Therefore every 5 arrangements are the same. The
number of arrangement should be 5! 5 = 4! = 24. But B and G can exchange their seats.
Total number of arrangements = 24 2 = 48.
Group Event 5
G5.1 If a is the smallest cubic number divisible by 810, find the value of a.
Reference: 2002 HI2
810 = 2345
a = 233653 = 729000
G5.2 Let b be the maximum of the function y = |x2 4| 6x (where 2 x 5), find the value of b.
When 2 x 2, y = 4 x2 6x = (x + 3)2 + 13
Maximum value occurs at x = 2, y = (2 + 3)2 + 13 = 12
When 2 x 5, y = x2 4 6x = (x 3)2 13
Maximum value occurs at x = 5, y = 9
Combing the two cases, b = 12
G5.3 In Figure 6, a square-based pyramid is cut into

two shapes by a cut running parallel to the base x
2
and made of the way up. Let 1 : c be the
3
ratio of the volume of the small pyramid to that
of the truncated base, find the value of c.
Reference: 2001 HG5
2x
The two pyramids are similar.
3
volume of the small pyramid x 1
= =
volume of the big pyramid 3 x 27
c = 27 1 = 26
G5.4 If cos6 + sin6 = 0.4 and d = 2 + 5 cos2 sin2 , find the value of d.
(cos2 + sin2 )(cos4 sin2 cos2 + cos4 ) = 0.4
cos4 + 2 sin2 cos2 + cos4 3 sin2 cos2 = 0.4
(cos2 + sin2 )2 3 sin2 cos2 = 0.4
1 0.4 = 3 sin2 cos2
sin2 cos2 = 0.2
d = 2 + 5 cos2 sin2 = 2 + 50.2 = 3
98-99 1 1 2 8 3 56 4 405 5 100000

Individual 6 2401 7 9 8 36 9 11 10 9
1 1
98-99 1 3 2 24 3 4 5 6
2 2
Group
6 12 7 4 8 7 9 12 10 135
Individual Events
I1 The circumference of a circle is 14 cm. Let X cm be the length of an arc of the circle, which
1
subtends an angle of radian at the centre. Find the value of X.
7
Let r be the radius of the circle.

2r = 14
r=7
1
X = r = 7 = 1
7
I2 In Figure 1, ABCDEF is a regular hexagon with area equal to

3 3 cm2. Let X cm 2 be the area of the square PQRS, find the value
of X.
Area of the hexagon = 6areas of AOB
1 3 3
3 3 = 6 OB 2 sin 60o = OB 2
2 2
2
OB = 2
Area of the square = (2OB)2 = 42 = 8
I3 8 points are given and no three of them are collinear. Find the number of triangles formed by
using any 3 of the given points as vertices.
The number of triangles formed
8 7 6
= 8C3 = = 56
1 2 3
I4 In Figure 2, there is a 3 3 square.
Let a + b + + i = X, find the value of X.
Reference:

c = e = g = 45
a + i = 90, b + f = 90, d + h = 90
a + b + + i = 453 + 903 = 405
X = 405
I5 How many integers n are there between 0 and 106, such that the unit digit of n3 is 1?
13 = 1, the unit digit of n must be 1
There are 106 10 = 100000 possible integers.
I6 Given that a, b, c are positive integers and a c = 100
Possible pairs of (a, b): (2, 99), (3, 98), (3, 99), (4, 97), (4, 98), (4, 99), ,
(50, 51), (50, 52), , (50, 99), ....................................
(98, 99)
Total number of triangles = 1 + 2 + + 48 + 49 + 48 + + 2 + 1
1 + 49
= 49 2 49 = 2401
2
I7 A group of youngsters went for a picnic. They agreed to share all expenses. The total amount
used was $288. One youngster had no money to pay his share, and each of the others had to
pay $4 more to cover the expenses. How many youngsters were there in the group?
Let the number of youngsters be n.
288 288
=4
n 1 n
72 = n2 n
n=9
I8 A two-digit number is equal to 4 times the sum of the digits, and the number formed by
reversing the digits exceeds 5 times the sum of the digits by 18. What is the number?
Let the unit digits of the original number be x and the tens digit by y.
10y + x = 4(x + y) ..............(1)
10x + y 5(x + y) = 18 ......(2)
From (1), 6y = 3x x = 2y ..........(3)
Sub. (3) into (2): 20y + y 5(2y + y) = 18
y = 3, x = 6
The number is 36.
I9 Given that the denominator of the 1001th term of the following sequence is 46, find the
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4
numerator of this term. , , , , , , , , , ,
2 3 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 5
Suppose the numerator of the 1001th term is n.
1 + 2 + 3 + + 44 + n = 1001, n 45
1
(45)(44) + n = 1001
2
n = 1001 990 = 11
I10 In the following addition, if the letter S represents 4, what digit does the letter A SEE
represent? SEE
3E + 4 = 10a + Y .........(1), where a is the carry digit in the tens digit. 4EE SEE
4E + a = 10b + 4 ......(2), where b is the carry digit in the hundreds digit. 4EE + YES
43 + Y + b = 10E + A ..........(3) 4EE EASY
From (3), E = 1 or 2 + YE4
When E = 1, (1) Y = 7, a = 0, (2) b = 0, (3) A = 9 EA4Y
When E = 2, (2) a = 1, Y = 0 reject because YE4 is a 3-digit number.
A=9
Group Events
G1 If a is a prime number and a2 2a 15 < 0, find the greatest value of a.
(a + 3)(a 5) < 0
a<5
The greatest prime number is 3.
G2 If a : b : c = 3 : 4 : 5 and a + b + c = 48, find the value of a b c.
a = 3k, b = 4k, c = 5k; sub. into a + b + c = 48
3k + 4k + 5k = 48
k=4
a = 12, b = 16, c = 20
a b c = 12 16 20 = 24
G3 Find the value of log 3 + 5 + 3 5 .

Reference: 1993 FI1.4, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1

log 3 + 5 + 3 5 = log
6+2 5
+
6 2 5

= log
(1 + 5 )2
+ ( 5 1)
2

2 2
2

1+ 5 + 5 1
= log

( )
= log 2 5 = log 2 5 = log 10 = 1
2
2 2
G4 Find the area enclosed by the straight line x + 4y 2 = 0 and the two coordinate axes.
1 1 1 1
x-intercept = 2, y-intercept = ; the area = 2 =
2 2 2 2
G5 Natural numbers are written in order starting from 1 until 198th digit as shown
1234567891
1444 4201112
444 L . If the number obtained is divided by 9, find the remainder.
L4
3
198 digits
123456789 has 9 digits

101112139899 has 902 = 180 digits
12345678910119899100101102 has 198 digits.
1 + 2 + 3 + +9 = 45, 11+12++19 is also divisible by 9,...,
91+92++99 is divisible by 9.
10 + 20 + + 90 is divisible by 9
the remainder is the same as 100101102 divided by 9.
1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 2 = 6, the remainder is 6.
G6 The average of 2, a, 5, b, 8 is 6. If n is the average of a, 2a+1, 11, b, 2b+3, find the value of n.
2 + a + 5 + b + 8 = 30 .........(1), a + 2a + 1 + 11 + b + 2b + 3 = 5n .............(2)
From (1): a + b = 15
(2) 5n = 3a + 3b + 15 = 3(a + b) + 15 = 315 + 15 = 60
n = 12
G7 If p = 2x2 4xy + 5y2 12y + 16, where x and y are real numbers, find the least value of p.
p = 2x2 4xy + 2y2 + 3y2 12y + 16 = 2(x y)2 + 3(y2 4y + 4) + 4 = 2(x y)2 + 3(y 2)2 + 4
p 4, the least value of p is 4.

31 = 3, 32 = 9, 33 = 27, 34 = 81, the unit digit of 34m is 1, where m is any positive integer.
333335 = 333483+3 = (3334)833333 = (...1)83(...33) = ...7, the unit digit is 7.
G9 In Figure 1, MON = 20, A is a point on OM, OA = 4 3 ,
D is a point on ON, OD = 8 3 , C is any point on AM, B is
any point OD. If l = AB + BC + CD, find the least value of
l.
Reflect the figure along the line OM, then reflect the figure
between MON1 along the line ON1.
NOM2 = 320 = 60 M2
l = AB + BC + CD = AB1 + B1C + CD
l = A2B1 + B1C + CD
N1
l is the shortest when A2, B1, C, D are collinear. C2
By cosine formula on OA2D,
D1
Shortest l =A2D = (4 3 ) + (8 3 ) 2(4 3 )(8 3 )cos 60
2 2 o A2
B1 C
M
= 48 + 192 96 = 12 A
60
O N
B D
G10 In figure 2, P is a point inside the square ABCD, PA = a,

A D
PB = 2a, PC=3a (a > 0). If APB=x, find the value of x
Reference: 2014 HG4 a
Rotate APB by 90 in anti-clockwise direction about B.
Let P rotate to Q, A rotate to E. P
APB EQB (by construction)
EQ = a, BQ = 2a = PB. Join AQ.
PBQ = 90 (Rotation) 2a 3a
ABQ = 90 ABP = PBC
ABQ CBP (SAS)
B C
AQ = CP = 3a (corr. sides s)
Q PBQ = 90 (Rotation) A D
PQ2 = PB2 + QB2 (Pyth. Theorem)
a
= (2a)2 + (2a)2 = 8a2
AP2 + PQ2 = a2 + 8a2 = 9a2 P
AQ2 = (3a)2
AP2 + PQ2 = AQ2
2a 3a
APQ = 90
Q
QPBQ = 90 and PB = QB
a 2a
BPQ = 45
APB = 45 + 90 = 135 E B C
Individual Events
I1 P 4 I2 a 8 I3 a 6 I4 a 23 I5 a 2 IS a 2
Q 8 b 10 b 7 b 2 b 1 spare b 770
R 11 c 1 c 2 c 2 c 0 c 57
S 10 d 2000 d 9902 d 8 d 6 d 58
Group Events
G1 a 1 G2 a 1 G3 a 2 G4 a 4 G5 P 35 GS P 4
b 15 b 0 b 7 b 0 Q 6 spare Q 6
c 80 c 13 c 0 c 3 R 11 R 35
d 1 d 5 d *6 d 3 S 150 S 8
see the remark
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If the interior angles of a P-sided polygon form an Arithmetic Progression and the smallest
and the largest angles are 20 and 160 respectively. Find the value of P.
P
Sum of all interior angles = (20 + 160) = 180(P 2)
2
90P = 180P 360
P=4
1
I1.2 In ABC, AB = 5, AC = 6 and BC = p. If = cos 2A, find the value of Q.
Q
(Hint: cos 2A = 2 cos2 A 1)
62 + 52 4 2 3
cos A = =
2 65 4
2
cos 2A = 2 cos A 1
2
3 1
= 2 1 =
4 8
Q=8
R
I1.3 If log2 Q + log4 Q + log8 Q = , find the value of R.
2
R
= log2 8 + log4 8 + log8 8
2
3 11
=3+ +1=
2 2
R = 11
11
I1.4 If the product of the numbers R and is the same as their sum, find the value of S.
S
11 11
11 = 11 +
S S
110
= 11
S
S = 10
Individual Event 2
x+ yz x y+z x+ y+z
I2.1 If x, y and z are positive real numbers such that = = and
z y x
( x + y ) ( y + z ) (z + x )
a= , find the value of a.
xyz
Reference: 1992 HG2
x+ yz x y+z x+ y+z
Let = k, = k, = k.
z y x
x + y z = kz LL(1)

x y + z = ky LL(2 )
x + y + z = kxLL(3)

(1) + (2) + (3): x + y + z = k(x + y + z)
k=1
From (1), x + y = 2z, (2): x + z = 2y, (3): y + z = 2x
(x + y ) ( y + z ) (z + x ) 8 xyz
a= = =8
xyz xyz
I2.2 Let u and t be positive integers such that u + t + ut = 4a + 2. If b = u + t, find the value of b.
u + t + ut = 34 1 + u + t + ut = 35
(1 + u)(1 + t) = 35
1 + u = 5, 1 + t = 7
u = 4, t = 6
b = 4 + 6 = 10
I2.3 In Figure 1, OAB is a quadrant of a circle and semi-circles are drawn on OA
and OB. If p, q denotes the areas of the shaded regions, where x
p = (b 9) cm2 and q = c cm2, find the value of c.
p = 1, let the area of each of two unshaded regions be x cm2
Let the radius of each of the smaller semicircles be r. The radius of the quadrant is 2r. x
r 2
; 2x + p + q = area of the quadrant = (2r ) = r 2
1 2
x + q = area of one semi-circle =
2 4
2(1) = (2), 2x + 2q = 2x + p + q q = p; c = 1
1
I2.4 Let f0(x) = and fn(x) = f0(fn1(x)), n = 1, 2, 3, . If f2000(2000) = d, find the value of d.
cx
Reference: 2009 HI6
1 1 1 1 x x 1 1
f0(x) = , f1(x) = f0( )= = = = 1
1 x 1 x 1 1 x
1
x x x
1 1
f2(x) = f0( 1 ) = = x, which is an identity function.
x 1 (1 1x )
So f5(x) = f2(x) = x, , f2000(x) = x; f2000(2000) = 2000 = d

I3.1 For all integers m and n, m n is defined as: m n = mn + nm.
If 2 a = 100, find the value of a.
Reference: 1990 HI4
2a + a2 = 100
64 + 36 = 26 + 62 = 100
a=6
I3.2 If 3 13b + 6a + 1 3 13b 6a 1 = 3 2 , where b > 0, find the value of b.
( 13b + 37
3 3
)3
13b 37 = 2
13b + 37 3 3 (13b + 37 ) 13b 37 +3 3 (13b 37 ) 13b + 37 (13b 37) = 2
23 23
24 = 3
(13b)2 37 2 3 13b + 37 3 (13b ) 37 2 3 13b 37
2
24 = 3
(13b)2 37 2 2 ;
3
(Q 3 13b + 37 3 13b 37 = 3 2 )
13824 = [(13b)2 1369] 2
6912 + 1369 = 169 b2
b2 = 49
b=7
Method 2 3 13b + 37 3 13b 37 = 3 2 ,
3
8 2 3 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 16, 13b 37 = 2, no solution
3
27 2 3 8 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 54, 13b 37 = 16, no solution
3
64 2 3 27 2 = 3 2 13b + 37 = 128, 13b 37 = 54
b=7
I3.3 In figure 2, AB = AC and KL = LM. If LC = b 6 cm and
A
KB = c cm, find the value of c.
Reference: 1992 HG6
Draw LN // AB on BM. K
L
BN = NM intercept theorem
B M
LN = LC = b 6 cm = 1 cm (sides opp. eq. s) N C
c cm = KB = 2 LN = 2 cm (mid point theorem)
I3.4 The sequence {an} is defined as a1 = c, an+1 = an + 2n (n 1). If a100 = d, find the value of d.
a1= 2, a2 = 2 + 2, a3 = 2 + 2 + 4, ,
a100 = 2 + 2 + 4 + + 198
= 2 + (2 + 198) 99 = 9902 = d
1
2
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Mr. Lee is a years old, a < 100.
If the product of a and his month of birth is 253, find the value of a.
253 = 1123
11 = his month of birth and a = 23
I4.2 Mr. Lee has a + b sweets. If he divides them equally among 10 persons, 5 sweets will be
remained. If he divides them equally among 7 persons, 3 more sweets are needed. Find the
minimum value of b.
10m + 5 = 7n 3 = 23 + b
7n 10m = 8
By trial and error n = 4, m = 2
23 + b = 74 3 = 25
b=2
I4.3 Let c be a positive real number. If x2 + 2 c x + b = 0 has one real root only, find the value of c
x2 + 2 c x + 2 = 0
= 4(c 2) = 0
c=2
I4.4 In figure 3, the area of the square ABCD is equal to d. If E, F, G, H are the A E B
mid-points of AB, BC, CD and DA respectively and EF = c, find the value of d. H F
Area of EFGH = c2 = 22 = 4
Area of ABCD = 2 area of EFGH = 8 D
G
C
d=8
Individual Event 5
I5.1 If 144p = 10, 1728q =5 and a = 122p3q, find the value of a.
a = 122p3q = 144p 1728q = 10 5 = 2
4 4 a
I5.2 If 1 + 2 = 0, b = , find b.
x x x
2
2 2
1 = 0 ; x = 2, b = = 1
x 2
I5.3 If the number of real roots of the equation x2 bx + 1 = 0 is c, find the value of c.
x2 x + 1 = 0
= 12 4 < 0
c = number of real roots = 0
I5.4 Let f (1) = c + 1 and f (n) = (n 1) f (n 1), where n > 1. If d = f (4), find d.
f (1) = 1
f (2) = f (1) = 1
f (3) = 2f (2) = 2
f (4) = 3f (3) = 32 = 6

IS.1 If a is the smallest prime number which can divide the sum 311 + 513, find the value of a.
311 is an odd number
513 is also an odd number
So 311 + 513 is an even number, which is divisible by 2.
1
IS.2 For all real number x and y, x y is defined as: x y = .
xy
If b = 4 (a 1540), find the value of b.

1 1
a 1540 = =
2 1540 3080
3080
b = 4 (a 1540) = = 770
4
IS.3 W and F are two integers which are greater than 20. If the product of W and F is b and the
sum of W and F is c, find the value of c.
WF = 770LL (1)

W + F = c LL(2)
770 = 2235
W = 22, F = 35
c = 22 + 35 = 57
d 1 1 1
IS.4 If = 1 2 1 2 L 1 2 , find the value of d.
114 2 3 c
Reference: 1986 FG10.4, 2014 FG3.1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 2 1 2 L1 2 = 1 1 L1 1 + 1 + L1 +
2 3 57 2 3 57 2 3 57
1 2 56 3 4 58 1 58 58
= L L = =
2 3 57 2 3 57 57 2 114
d = 58
Group Event 1 (2000 Final Sample Group Event)

G1.1 Let x * y = x + y xy, where x, y are real numbers. If a = 1 * (0 * 1), find the value of a.
0*1=0+10=1
a = 1 * (0 * 1)
=1*1
=1+11=1
G1.2 In figure 1, AB is parallel to DC, ACB is a right angle, D C
BCD = 135 A B
BD BC
=
sin 135 sin D
AB sin 45
sin D
1
sin D = ; D = 30
2
CBD = 180 135 30 = 15 (s sum of BCD)
b = 15
G1.3 Let x, y be non-zero real numbers. If x is 250% of y and 2y is c% of x, find the value of c.
x = 2.5y ..............(1)
c
2y = x .........(2)
100
c
Sub. (1) into (2): 2y = 2 .5 y
100
c = 80
G1.4 If logp x = 2, logq x = 3, logr x = 6 and logpqr x = d, find the value of d.
log x log x log x
=2; = 3; =6
log p log q log r
= ; = ; =
+ + = + + =1
log pqr
=1
log x
log x
=1
log pqr
d = logpqr x = 1
Group Event 2
G2.1 If a = x4 + x4 and x2 + x + 1 = 0, find the value of a.
x2 + x +1
=0
x
1
x + = 1
x
2
x + = 1
1
x
1
x 2 + 2 = 1
x
2
x 2 +
1
=1
x2
1
a = x4 + = 1
x4
G2.2 If 6b + 6b+1 = 2b + 2b+1 + 2b+2, find the value of b.
6b(1 + 6) = 2b(1 + 2 + 4)
b=0
G2.3 Let c be a prime number. If 11c + 1 is the square of a positive integer, find the value of c.
11c + 1 = m2
m2 1 = 11c
(m + 1)(m 1) = 11c
m 1 = 11 and m + 1 = c
m = 13
G2.4 Let d be an odd prime number. If 89 (d + 3)2 is the square of an integer, find the value of d.
Q d is odd, d + 3 must be even, 89 (d + 3)2 must be odd.
89 = (d + 3)2 + m2
By trial and error, m = 5, 89 = 82 + 52
d+3=8
d=5
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let a be the number of positive integers less than 100 such that they are both square and cubic
numbers, find the value of a.
1998 HG4
The positive integers less than 100 such that they are both square and cubic numbers are:
1 and 26 = 64 only, so there are only 2 numbers satisfying the condition.
G3.2 The sequence {ak} is defined as: a1 = 1, a2 = 1 and ak = ak1 + ak2 (k > 2)
If a1 + a2 + + a10 = 11 ab , find the value of b.
a1 = 1, a2 = 1, a3 = 2, a4 = 3, a5 = 5, a6 = 8, a7 = 13, a8 = 21, a9 = 34, a10 = 55
a1 + a2 + + a10 = 1 + 1 + 2 + 3 + 5 + 8 + 13 + 21 + 34 + 55 = 143 = 1113 = 11a7
b=7
G3.3 If c is the maximum value of log(sin x), where 0 < x < , find the value of c.
0 < sin x 1
log(sin x) log 1 = 0
c=0
G3.4 Let x 0 and y 0. Given that x + y = 18. If the maximum value of x + y is d, find the
value of d. (Reference: 1999 FGS.2)
x+y= ( )
2
x + y 2 xy
( x+ y )
2 x+ y
= 18 + 2 xy 18 + 2 = 36 (GM AM)
2
x + y 6 = d (It is easy to get the answer by letting x = y in x + y = 18)
Remark The original question is Given that x + y = 18. If the maximum value of x+ yL
x + y is undefined for x < 0 or y < 0.
Group Event 4
G4.1 If a tiles of L-shape are used to form a larger similar figure (figure 2) 1
without overlapping, find the least possible value of a.
From the figure, a = 4. 1
2
1
G4.2 Let , be the roots of x2 + bx 2 = 0. If > 1 and < 1, and b is an integer, find the value
of b.
1 > 0 and + 1 < 0
( 1)( + 1) < 0
+ 1 < 0
<3
( )2 < 9
( + )2 4 < 9
b2 + 8 < 9
1 < b < 1
Q b is an integer
b=0
c+4
G4.3 Given that m, c are positive integers less than 10. If m = 2c and 0.m& c& = , find the value
m+5
of c.
10m + c c + 4
0.m& c& = =
99 m+5
20c + c c + 4
=
99 2c + 5
7c c + 4
=
33 2c + 5
14c2 + 35c = 33c + 132
14c2 + 2c 132 = 0
7c2 + c 66 = 0
(7c + 22)(c 3) = 0
c=3
G4.4 A bag contains d balls of which x are black, x + 1 are red and x + 2 are white. If the
1
probability of drawing a black ball randomly from the bag is less than , find the value of d.
6
x 1
<
3x + 3 6
x 1
<
x +1 2
2x < x + 1
x<1
x=0
d = 3x + 3 = 3
Group Event 5
G5.1 If the roots of x2 2x P = 0 differ by 12, find the value of P.
+ = 2, = P
= 12
( )2 = 144
( + )2 4 = 144
4 + 4P = 144
P = 35
G5.2 Given that the roots of x2 + ax + 2b = 0 and x2 + 2bx + a = 0 are both real and a, b > 0.
If the minimum value of a + b is Q, find the value of Q.
a2 8b 0 and 4b2 4a 0
a2 8b and b2 a
a4 64b2 64a
a4 64a 0
a(a3 64) 0
a3 64
a4
Minimum a = 4, b2 a
b2 4 minimum b = 2
Q = minimum value of a + b = 4 + 2 = 6
G5.3 If R2000 < 53000, where R is a positive integer, find the largest value of R.
(R2)1000 < (53)1000
R2 < 53 = 125
R < 125 < 12
The largest integral value of R = 11
G5.4 In figure 3, ABC is a right-angled triangle and BH AC.
If AB = 15, HC = 16 and the area of ABC is S, find the A
value of S. H
Reference: 1998 FG1.3 15
It is easy to show that ABH ~ BCH ~ ACB. 16
Let ABH = = BCH
In ABH, BH = 15 cos
B C
In BCH, CH = BH tan 16 tan = 15 cos
16 sin = 15 cos2 16 sin = 15 15 sin2
15 sin2 + 16 sin 15 = 0
(3 sin + 5)(5 sin 3) = 0
3 3
sin = ; tan =
5 4
4
BC = AB tan = 15 = 20
3
1
Area of ABC = 15 20 = 150 = S
2
Group Event (Spare)

GS.1 If a number N is chosen randomly from the set of positive integers, the probability of the unit
P
digit of N4 being unity is , find the value of P.
10
4
If the unit digit of N4 is 1, then the unit digit of N may be 1, 3, 7, 9. So the probability =
10
P=4
GS.2 Let x 0 and y 0. Given that x + y = 18. If the maximum value of x + y is d, find the
value of d.
x+y= ( )
2
x + y 2 xy
( x+ y )
2 x+ y
= 18 + 2 xy 18 + 2 = 36 (G.M. A.M.)
2
x+ y 6=d
GS.3 If the roots of x2 2x R = 0 differs by 12, find the value of R.

+ = 2, = R
= 12
( )2 = 144
( + )2 4 = 144
4 + 4R = 144
R = 35
GS.4 If the product of a 4-digit number abSd and 9 is equal to another 4-digit number dSba,
Reference: 1987 FG9, 1994HI6
a = 1, d = 9, Let the carry digit in the hundred digit be x. Then 9S + 8 = 10x + b .........(1)
9b + x = S ...........(2); x = S 9b ...............(3)
Sub. (3) into (1): 9s + 8 = 10(S 9b) + b 8 = S 89b
S = 8, b = 0
1
97-98 1 2 2 40 3 12 4 3 5
Individual 2
6 466 7 19 8 3 9 2 10 744
1 2 2 12 3 27 4 64 5 14
97-98
1
Group 6 14 7 8 1 9 20 10 19
2
Individual Events
I1 Given that x3 5x2 + 2x + 8 is divisible by (x a) and (x 2a), where a is an integer, find the
value of a.
Let f (x) = x3 5x2 + 2x + 8
f (1) = 1 5 2 + 8 = 0 x + 1 is a factor
f (2) = 8 20 + 4 + 8 = 0 x 2 is a factor
f (x) = (x + 1)(x 2)(x 4)
a=2
I2 Given that 8, a, b form an A.P. and a, b, 36 form a G.P. If a and b are both positive numbers,
find the sum of a and b.
8+b
a= (1); b2 = 36a (2)
2
Sub. (1) into (2): b2 = 18(8 + b)
b2 18b 144 = 0
(b + 6)(b 24) = 0
b = 6 (rejected) or b = 24
8 + 24
a= = 16
2
a + b = 40
x x
I3 Find the smallest real root of the following equation: = .
(x 4)(x + 3) (x + 4)(x 6)
x(x + 4)(x 6) = x(x 4)(x + 3)
x(x2 2x 24) = x(x2 x 12)
0 = x(x + 12)
x = 0 or 12
The smallest root = 12
I4 In figure 1, ABCD is a square. E is a point on AB such that BE = 1 and A E

B
CE = 2. Find the area of the square ABCD.
BC2 = 22 12 (Pythagoras theorem on BCE)
Area of the square = BC2 = 3
D C
I5 If 2x + 3 = 2 + 2 + 2 + L , find the value of x.
(2 x + 3)2 = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + L = 2 + (2 x + 3)
2
4x + 12x + 9 = 2x + 5
4x2 + 10x + 4 = 0
2x2 + 5x + 2 = 0
(2x + 1)(x + 2) = 0
1
x = or 2
2
Q 2x + 3= 2 + 2 + 2 + L > 0
1
x 2, x = only
2
I6 Given that n is a positive integer which is less than 1000. If n is divisible by 3 or 5, find the
number of possible values of n. (Reference: 1993 FG8.3-4, 1994 FG8.1-2, 2015 FI3.1)
Number of possible n = 333 + 199 66 = 466
I7 In figure 2, ABCD is a rectangle with CD = 12. E is a point on
CD such that DE = 5. M is the mid-point of AE and P, Q are
points on AD and BC respectively such that PMQ is a straight
line. If PM : MQ = 5 : k , find the value of k.
Draw a straight line HMG // CD (H lies on AD, G lies on BC)
AH = HD (Intercept theorem) A B
PHM ~ QGM (equiangular)
AHM ~ ADE (equiangular)
P M
PM : MQ = HM : MG (ratio of sides, ~'s) H G
1
= DE : (HG HM) (ratio of sides, ~'s) Q
2
5 7 C
= 2.5 : (12 2.5) = 5 : 19 (opp. sides, rectangle) D E
k = 19
I8 Find the last digit of the value of 620 512 8.
61 = 6, 62 = 36, , the last digit of 620 is 6, the last digit of 512 is 5.
The last digit if the number is 6 5 8 (mod 10) = 7 = 3 (mod 10)
x+2 x 1 5
I9 Let a be the positive root of the equation + = , find the value of a.
x 1 x+2 2
Cross multiplying: 2(x + 2 + x 1) = 5 ( x 1)( x + 2)
4(4x2 + 4x + 1) = 25(x2 + x 2)
9x2 + 9x 54 = 0
9(x 2)(x + 3) = 0
a=x=2
I10 Find the sum of all positive factors of 240.
240 = 2435
Positive factors are in the form 2a3b5c, 0 a 4, 0 b, c 1, a, b, c are integers.
Sum of positive factors = (1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + 24)(1 + 3)(1 + 5) = 3146 = 744
Group Events
1 1
G1 If x + = 2 , find the value of x 3 + 3 .
x x
2
1 1
x + 2 = x + 2= 2
2
x x
1 1 1
x3 + 3
= x + x 2 1 + 2 = 2(2 1) = 2
x x x
G2 In Figure 1, ABC is a triangle. AD and BE are the bisectors of the E
exterior angles A and B respectively meeting CB and AC C
produced at D and E. Let AD = BE = AB and BAC = a. Find
the value of a. Reference: 1986
A B
180o a o ao
BAD = = 90o (adj. s on st. line, bisector)
2 2
180o BAD ao
ABD = = 45o + (s sum of ABD) D
2 4
ABD ao
CBE = = 22.5o + (vert. opp. s, bisector)
2 8
ABE = ABC + CBE = 180 ABD + CBE
ao ao ao
= 135o + 22.5o + = 157.5o
4 8 8
AEB = a (base s isosceles )
ao
a + a + 157.5o = 180 (s sum of ABE)
8
a = 12
G3 If 6 a 4 and 3 b 6, find the greatest value of a2 b2.
0 a2 36 and 9 b2 36
36 a2 b2 27
The greatest value = 27.
G4 Let a, b, c be integers such that a2 = b3 = c. If c > 1, find the smallest value of c.
Let a = k3, b = k2, c = k6
c>1k>1
The smallest k = 2
The smallest c = 26 = 64
G5 In figure 2, the area of the parallelogram ABCD A D

is 120. M and N are the mid-points of AB and
BC respectively. AN intersects MD and BD at P
points P and Q respectively. Find the area of M
BQPM.
Produce DM and CB to meet at R. Q
Let BC = 2a. Then BN = NC = a (mid-point)
B C
AQD ~ BQN (equiangular) N
A D
BQ BN
= (ratio of sides, ~s) P
QD AD M 2t
Q
1
=
t
(N = mid-point, opp. sides of //-gram) a a
2 R 2a B N C
1
Area of ABD = 120 = 60
2
2
Area of AQD = ABD = 40
3
2
Area of BQN BN 1
= =
Area of AQD AD 4
1
Area of BQN = 40 = 10 ..(1)
4
As M is the mid-point, AMD BMR (ASA)
RM = MD (corr. sides s) (2)
Also APD ~ NPR (equiangular)
DP AD
PR NR
2a 2
= = (opp. sides of //-gram, corr. sides s) ..(3)
3a 3
Combine (2) and (3)
2 1
PD = RD ; MD = RD
5 2
1 2 1
MP = MD PD = RD RD = RD
2 5 10
1
RD
MP 10 1
= = ..(4)
PD 2 4
RD
5
1
Area of AMD = 120 = 30
4
1 1
By (4): Area of AMP = Area of AMD = 30 = 6 (5)
5 5
1
Area of ABN = 120 = 30
4
Area of BQPM = Area of ABN Area of AMP Area of BQN
= 30 6 10 = 14 (by (1) and (5))
G6 In figure 3, find the number of possible paths from point A to

point B following the direction of arrow heads.
Reference 1983 FI4.1, 2000 HI4, 2007 HG5 A 1 1 1 1
The numbers at each of the vertices of in the
4 4
following figure show the number of 1 2 3
possible ways. 1
3 6 10
So the total number of ways = 14 B 14 Figure 3
G7 Find the smallest real root of the equation (x 2)(2x 1) = 5.

2x2 5x 3 = 0
(2x + 1)(x 3) = 0
1
x = or 3
2
1
The smallest real root is .
2
G8 In figure 4, four circles with radius 1 touch each other inside a
square. Find the shaded area. (Correct your answer to the nearest
integer.)
The line segments joining the four centres form a square of sides = 2
Shaded area = 22 12 1
G9 In figure 5, ABCD is a square and points E, F, G, H are the

H
mid-points of sides AB, BC, CD, DA respectively, find the number of A D
right-angled triangles in the figure. (Reference: 1995 HG8)
Let the shortest side of the smallest right-angled triangle be 1.
Then AE = 2 , EH = 2, AB = 2 2 , AC = 4 E G
We count the number of right-angled triangles with different
hypotenuses.
Hypotenuse Number of triangles B C
F
2 8
2 4
2 2 4
4 4
Total number of triangles = 20
G10 A test is composed of 25 multiple-choice questions. 4 marks will be awarded for each correct
answer and 1 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer. A pupil answered all questions
and got 70 marks. How many questions did the pupil answer correctly?
Suppose he answer x questions correctly and 25 x question wrongly.
4x (25 x) = 70
x = 19
Individual Events
2 *1
SI a I1 a I2 a 38 I3 a 10 I4 p 15 I5 a 4
3 see the remark
b 0 b 2 b 104 b 27 q 4 b 5
c 3 c 4 c 100 c 23 r 57 c 24
d 6 d 24 d 50 d 26 s 3 d 57
Group Events
SG a 10 G1 p 4 G2 a 1110 G3 a 90 G4 a 0.13717421 G5 a 4290 GS s 6
b 73 q 3 b 1 b 1 b 90 b 18 b 10
665
c 55 r 2 c 0 c 0 c c 67 c 81
729
d 16 a 9 d 6 d 1 d 50 d 30 d 50
3 1 7 2 3
SI.1 Given that + = and = 6 are simultaneous equations in a and u. Solve for a.
a u 2 a u
11 33
3(1) + (2): =
a 2
2
a=
3
SI.2 Three solutions of the equation px + qy + bz = 1 are (0, 3a, 1), (9a, 1, 2) and (0, 3a, 0). Find
3aq + b = 1

9ap q + 2b = 1
3aq = 1

Sub. (3) into (1): 1 + b = 1
b=0
SI.3 Find c so that the graph of y = mx + c passes through the two points (b + 4, 5) and (2, 2).
52 1
4 ( 2 ) 2
1
2
c=3
SI.4 The solution of the inequality x2 + 5x 2c 0 is d x 1. Find d.
x2 + 5x 6 0
(x + 6)(x 1) 0
6 x 1
d = 6
Individual Event 1
1 2 1
I1.1 If a is the maximum value of sin 3 cos 2 , find the value of a.
2 2
1 sin 3 1 and 1 cos 2 1
1 2 1 1 1
sin 3 and cos 2
2 2 2 2
1 2 1 1 1
sin 3 cos 2 + = 1 = a,
2 2 2 2
Maximum occur when sin2 3 = 1 and cos 2 = 1
i.e. 3 = 90 + 180n and 2 = 360m + 180, where m, n are integers.
= 30 + 60n = 180m + 90 60n = 180m + 60 n = 3m + 1; let m = 1, n = 4, =270
Remark: the original question is
1 2 1
If a is the maximum value of sin + cos 3 , find the value of a.
2 2
Maximum occur when sin2 = 1 and cos 3 = 1
i.e. = 90 + 180n and 3 = 360m, where m, n are integers.
= 90 + 180n = 120m 3 + 6n = 4m, LHS is odd and RHS is even, contradiction.
The question was wrong because we cannot find any to make the expression a maximum.
x+ y =2

I1.2 If xy z 2 = a , find the value of b.
b = x + y + z

(2), xy = 1 + z2 > 0; together with (1) we have x > 0 and y > 0
by A.M. G.M. in (1) x + y 2 xy 2 2 1 + z 2
After simplification, 0 z2 z = 0
(3): b = x + y + z = 2 + 0 = 2
I1.3 In the figure, BD = b cm, DC = c cm and area of
A
1
ABD = area of ABC, find the value of c.
3
Let the common height be h cm
1 1 1
BD hcm = BC hcm
2 3 2
B D C
1
2 = (2 + c) c = 4
3
I1.4 Suppose d is the number of positive factors of 500 + c, find the value of d.
Reference 1993 HI8, 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 2002 FG4.1, 2005 FI4.4
500 + c = 504 = 23327
A positive factor is in the form 2i3j7k, where 0 i 3, 0 j 2, 0 k 1
The total number of positive factors are (1 + 3)(1 + 2)(1 + 1) = 24
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If A(1, 3), B(5, 8) and C(29, a) are collinear, find the value of a.
83 a 8
5 1 29 5
a 8 5
=
24 4
a 8 = 30
a = 38
I2.2 In the figure, PA touches the circle ABC at A, PBC is a C

straight line, AB = PB, ACB = a. If ABP = b, find
the value of b. a
B
BAP = a = 38 ( in alt. seg.) b
BPA = 38 (base s isos. )
A P
38 + 38 + b = 180 (s sum of )
b = 104
2
I2.3 If c is the minimum value of the quadratic function y = x + 4x + b, find the value of c.
2
y = x + 4x + 104 = (x + 2)2 + 100 100 = c
I2.4 If d = 1 2 + 3 4 + c, find the value of d.
Reference: 1991 FSI.1
d = (1 2) + (3 4) + + (99 100)
= 1 1 1 (50 times)
= 50
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If {p, q} = q a + p and {2, 5} = 52, find the value of a.
{2, 5} = 5 a + 2 = 52
a = 10
37
I3.2 If a, , b is an arithmetic progression, find the value of b.
2
a + b 37
=
2 2
b = 27
2 2
I3.3 If b c = 200, find the value of c.
2
272 c = 200
c2 = 729 200 = 529
c = 23
I3.4 Given that in the figure, BC // DE, BC : DE = 10 : c A

and AF : FG = 20 : d, find the value of d.
By similar triangles, AF : AG = AC : AE = BC : DE B C
F
20 : (20 + d) = 10 : 23
d = 26 D E
G
Individual Event 4
10 x 3 y y+x
I4.1 Given that = 2 and p = , find the value of p.
x + 2y yx
10x 3y = 2(x + 2y)
8x = 7y
y+x
p=
yx
8 y + 8x
=
8 y 8x
8y + 7 y
= = 15
8y 7 y
I4.2 Given that a b and ax = bx. If p + q = 19(a b)x, find the value of q.
a b and ax = bx x = 0
p + q = 19(a b)x
15 + q = 19
q=4
I4.3 Given that the sum of q consecutive numbers is 222, and the largest of these consecutive
numbers is r, find the value of r.
The smallest integer is r q + 1
q
(r q + 1 + r ) = 222
2
2(2r 3) = 222
r = 57
I4.4 If tan2(r + s) = 3 and 0 r + s 90, find the value of s.
tan2(57 + s) = 3
57 + s = 60
s=3
Individual Event 5
I5.1 If the sum of roots of 5x2 + ax 2 = 0 is twice the product of roots, find the value of a.
+ = 2
a 2
= 2
5 5
a=4
I5.2 Given that y = ax2 bx 13 passes through (3, 8), find the value of b.
8 = 4(3)2 b(3) 13
b=5
I5.3 If there are c ways of arranging b girls in a circle, find the value of c.
Reference: 2000 FG4.4, 2011 FI1.4
First arrange the 5 girls in a line, the number of ways = 54321 = 120
Next, join the first girl and the last girl to form a circle. There are 5 repetitions.
The number of ways = c = 120 5 = 24
c
I5.4 If straight lines and 3 circles are drawn on a paper, and d is the largest numbers of points of
4
intersection, find the value of d.
For the 3 circles, there are 6 intersections.
If each straight line is drawn not passing through these intersections, it intersects the 3 circles
at 6 other points. The 6 straight lines intersect each other at 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 points.
d = the largest numbers of points of intersection = 6 + 66 + 15 = 57
Sample Group Event

SG.1 If a is the smallest positive integer which gives remainder 1 when divided by 3 and is a
multiple of 5, find the value of a. (Reference: 1997 FG5.1)
a = 5k = 3m + 1
SG.2 In the following diagram, FA//DC and FE//BC. Find the

A B
value of b.
Join AD and CF. 73

Let CFE = x, AFC = y x
F
BCF = x (alt. s, FE // BC) y C
DCF = y (alt. s, FA // DC) b
BCD = x + y D
E
BAD = 180 x y = ADE (opp. cyclic quad.)
AB // ED (alt. s eq.)
b = 73 (alt. s AB // ED)
SG.3 If c is a 2 digit positive integer such that sum of its digits is 10 and product of its digit is 25,
find the value of c. (Reference: 1997 FG5.3)
c = 10x + y, where 0 < x <10, 0 y < 10.

x + y = 10
xy = 25
SG.4 Let S1, S2,, S10 be the first ten terms of an A.P., which consists of positive integers.
10
[2a + (10 1)t ] = 55
2
2a + 9t = 11
d = (S10S8)+(S9S7)++ (S3 S1)
= [a + 9t (a + 7t)] + [a + 8t (a + 6t)] + + (a+2ta)
d = 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t
= 16t = 16
Group Event 1
G1.1 If the area of a given sector s = 4 cm2, the radius of this sector r = 2 cm and the arc length of
this sector A = p cm, find the value of p.
1
By the formula A = rs , where A is the sector area, r is the radius and s is the arc length
2
4 = (2 ) p
1
2
p=4
a b c 2b + c
G1.2 Given that = = and a + b + c 0. If q = , find the value of q.
2b + c 2c + a 2a + b a
a b c
Let = = =k
2b + c 2c + a 2a + b
a = (2b + c)k; b = (2c + a)k; c = (2a + b)k
a + b + c = (2b + c + 2c + a + 2a + b)k
a + b + c = (3a + 3b + 3c)k
1
k=
3
2b + c 1
q= = =3
a k
G1.3 Let ABC be a right-angled triangle, CD is the altitude on AB, AC = 3, A
5
DB = , AD = r, find the value of r.
2
3 AC 9
AD = AC cos A = =5
AB 2 + AD
D
5
AD + AD2 = 9
2
2AD2 + 5AD 18 = 0
(2AD + 9)(AD 2) = 0 B C
AD = r = 2
G1.4 If x3 + px2 + qx + 17 (x + 2)3 + a, find the value of a.
Compare the constant term: 17 = 8 + a
a=9
Group Event 2
137
G2.1 If = 0.12& 34& , find the value of a.
a
137 234 999 + 234 1233 137
= 0.12& 34& = 0.1 + = = =
a 9990 9990 9990 1110
a = 1110
G2.2 If b = 199919981998 199819991999 + 1, find the value of b.
b = 199919981001 199819991001 + 1 = 1
x = 3 t 2
G2.3 If the parametric equation can be transformed into x2 + y2 + cx + dy + 6 = 0, find
y = t 3
the values of c and d.
(1)2 + (2)2 : x2 + y2 = 6t + 12 = 6(y + 3) + 12
c = 0, d = 6
Group Event 3
G3.1 In ABC, ABC = 2ACB, BC = 2AB. If BAC = a, find
A
the value of a.
Reference: 2001 HG8 c
Let ACB = , ABC = 2 (given)
AB = c, BC = 2c
BAC = 180 2 (s sum of ) 2
c 2c B 2c C
=
By sine formula,
(
sin sin 180 o 3 )
sin 3 = 2sin
3 sin 4 sin3 = 2 sin
4 sin2 1 = 0
1
sin = ; = 30, BAC = 180 3 = 90; a = 90
2
Method 2 Let ACB = , ABC = 2 (given) A
Let S be the mid-point of BC.
Let N and M be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from S on
AC and B from AS respectively. c M N

BSM BAM (RHS)
RQN = = SQN (corr. s, 's)
B c S c C
CSN BSM BAM (AAS)
NS = MS = AM (corr. sides 's)
NS 1
sin NAS = = ; NAS = 30;
AS 2
ASN = 60 (s sum of ASN)
90 + 60 + 90 = 180 (adj. s on st. line BSC)
= 30
BAC = 180 3 = 90 (s sum of ABC); a = 90
1 x2
G3.2 Given that x + = 2 , 4 = b, find the value of b.
x x + x2 +1
2
1 1 1
x + = 2 x + 2 + 2 = 2 x + 2 = 0 (remark: x is a complex number)
2 2
x x x
2
x 1
b= 4 = 2 =1
x + x + 1 x + 1 + x12
2
G3.3 If the number of positive integral root(s) of the equation x + y + 2xy = 141 is c,
2x + 2y + 4xy = 282 2x + 2y + 4xy + 1 = 283, which is a prime number
(2x + 1)(2y + 1) = 1283
2x + 1 = 1, 2y + 1 = 283
Solving the above equations, there is no positive integral roots; c = 0
G3.4 Given that x + y + z = 0, x2 + y2 + z2 = 1 and d = 2(x4 + y4 + z4), find the value of d.
1
(x + y + z)2 = 0 x2 + y2 + z2 + 2(xy + yz + zx) = 0 xy + yz + zx =
2
1 1 1
(xy + yz + zx)2 = x2y2 + y2z2 + z2x2 + 2xyz(x + y + z) = x2y2 + y2z2 + z2x2 =
4 4 4
1
(x2 +y2 + z2)2 = 1 x4 + y4 + z4 + 2(x2y2 + y2z2 + z2x2) = 1 d = 21 2 = 1
4
Group Event 4
G4.1 If 0.1& + 0.02& + 0.003& ++ 0.000000009& = a, find the value of a (Give your answer in decimal)
1 2 3 9 100000000 + 20000000 + 3000000 + L + 9
a= + + +L+ =
9 90 900 900000000 900000000
123456789 13717421
a= = = 0.13717421
900000000 100000000
G4.2 The circle in the figure has centre O and radius 1, A and B are
Area of shaded part 2
points on the circle. Given that =
Area of unshaded part 3 + 2 O
and AOB = b, find the value of b. 1
Area of shaded part 2 2 b
= =
Area of the circle 2 + 3 + 2 4 A B
(1) 360 2 (1) sin b 2 b
2 b 1 2 o
= 2sin b = 2; b = 90
(1) 4
2
90
G4.3 A sequence of figures S0, S1, S2, are constructed as follows. S0 is obtained by removing the
middle third of [0,1] interval; S1 by removing the middle third of each of the two intervals in
S0; S2 by removing the middle third of each of the four intervals in S1; S3, S4, are obtained
similarly. Find the total length c of the intervals removed in the construction of S5 (Give your
answer in fraction).
|( )| S0
1 2
0 1
3 3
|( )( )( )| S1
1 2 1 2 7 8
0 1
9 9 3 3 9 9
|( )( )( ) ( )( )( )( )| S2
2
The total length in S0 =
3
1 4
9 9
1 8
27 27
1 64
Deductively, the total length in S5 = 26 6
=
3 729
64 665
The total length removed in S5 = 1 =
729 729
G4.4 All integers are coded as shown in the following table. If the sum of all integers coded from
101 to 200 is d, find the value of d.
Integer 3 2 1 0 1 2 3
Code 7 5 3 1 2 4 6
Sum of integers code as 102, 104, , 200 is 51 + 52 + + 100
Sum of integers code as 101, 103, , 199 is 50 51 99
Sum of all integers = 1 + 1 + + 1 (50 times) = 50
Group Event 5
G5.1 If 123 + 234 + 345 ++ 101112 = a, find the value of a.
a = n(n + 1)(n + 2 )(n + 3)
1
4
= 10(11)(12 )(13) = 4290
1
4
G5.2 Given that 5x + 5x = 3. If 53x + 53x = b, find the value of b.
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1996FI1.2, 2010 FI3.2
(5x + 5x)2 = 9
52x + 2 + 52x = 9
52x + 52x = 7
b = 53x + 53x
= (5x + 5x)(52x 1 + 52x)
= 3(7 1) = 18
G5.3 Given that the roots of equation x2 + mx + n = 0 are 98 and 99 and y = x2 + mx + n. If x takes
on the values of 0, 1, 2, , 100, then there are c values of y that can be divisible by 6. Find
the value of c.
m = 98 99 = 197; n = 9899 = 49336, which is divisible by 6
y = x2 197x + 9899
= x2 + x 198x + 49336
= x(x + 1) 6(33x + 4933)
If y is divisible by 6, then x(x + 1) is divisible by 6
One of x, x + 1 must be even. If it is divisible by 6, then one of x, x + 1 must be divisible by 3.
We count the number of possible x for which y cannot be divisible by 6
These x may be 1, 4, 7, 10, , 97, 100; totally 34 possible x.
c = 101 34 = 67
G5.4 In the figure, ABCD is a square, BF // AC, and
F
AEFC is a rhombus. If EAC= d, find the
value of d. D C
Reference HKCEE Mathematics 1992 P2 Q54
From B and E draw 2 lines h, k AC
h
h = k (QBF // AC)
Let AB = x, CAB = 45 k E
x
k = x sin 45 = =h
2 A x B
AC = x cos 45
= 2 x = AE (QAEFC is a rhombus)
h
sin EAC =
AE
x
2 1
= =
2x 2
d = 30
Group Spare Event

GS.1 In the figure, there are two common
tangents. These common tangents meet the
circles at points A, B, C and D. If AC =9 cm,
BD = 3 cm, BAC = 60 and AB = s cm,
find the value of s.
Produce AB and CD to meet at E.
AE = CE, BE = DE (tangent from ext. pt.)
EAC and EBD are isosceles triangles
ECA = BAC = 60 (base s isos. )
AEC = 60 (s sum of )
EBD = EDB = 60 (s sum of , base s isos. )
EAC and EBD are equilateral triangles
EB = BD = 3 cm, EA = AC = 9 cm (sides of equilateral triangles)
s=93=6
GS.2 In the figure, ABCD is a quadrilateral, where the interior angles
A, B and D are all equal to 45. When produced, BC is
perpendicular to AD. If AC = 10 and BD = b, find the value of b.
reflex BCD = 360 45 45 45 = 225 (s sum of polygon)
BCD = 360 225 = 135 (s at a point)
Produce BC to meet AD at E, AEB = 90 (given)
BAE = 45 = ABE (given) B
ABE and CDE are right angled isosceles triangles
Let AE = x, DE = y, then BE = x, CE = y, BC = x y x-y
C
In ACE, x2 + y2 = 102 (1) (Pythagoras theorem) 10
y
CD = y 2 + y 2 = 2 y (Pythagoras theorem) A x E y D
Apply cosine rule on BCD
BD2 = (x y)2 + 2y2 2(x y) 2 y cos 135
BD2 = x2 2xy + y2 + 2y2 + 2(x y)y = x2 + y2 = 102

BD = b = 10
GS.3 If logc 27 = 0.75, find the value of c.
c0.75 = 27
( )
4
c = 33 3 = 81
GS.4 If the mean, mode and median of the data 30, 80, 50, 40, d are all equal, find the value of d.
30 + 80 + 50 + 40 + d d
Mean = = 40 + = mode
5 5
By trial and error, d = 50
96-97 1 30 2 18 3 1854 4 4 5 5050

Individual 6 4:1 7 0 8 30 9 17 10 2
1
1 10000 2 3 1:6 4 25 5 4
96-97 50
Group 1
6 24 7 7 8 8 9 30 10
12
Individual Events
I1 Let n be a positive integer. If n2 = 29p + 1, where p is a prime number, find the value of n.
29p = n2 1
29p = (n + 1)(n 1)
29 and p are prime number
29 = n + 1, p = n 1 or 29 = n 1 or p = n + 1
Solving the two systems of equations: p = 27 or p = 31
27 is not a prime number p = 27 is rejected
p = 31, n = 30
1 5
I2 If the width of a rectangle is increased by m, its area will be increased by m2. If its
3 3
1 9
length is decreased by m, its area will be decreased by m2. Let the area of the rectangle
2 5
be x m2, find the value of x.
Let the width of the rectangle be a m, its length be b m.
1 5
a 3 b x 3 ab b x 1
1 5
3 3

a b 1 x 9 ab a x 9 2
1
2 5 2 5
1 5 1 5
x 3 b x 3 3 b 3
ab = x
1
x a x 9 1 a 9
2 5 2 5
18
a= ,b=5
5
x = ab = 18
I3 If s is the sum of all positive factors of 1234, find the value of s.
1234 = 2617 and 617 is a prime number
All positive factors are 1, 2, 617, 1234.
Sum of all positive factors = s = 1 + 2 + 617 + 1234 = 1854
1 x2 2x 3 x5
I4 Let x , find the value of 2 .
x x 1 x 3x 6
1
x x2 = 1 x = 1 or 1
x
x2 2x 3
However, is undefined for x = 1
x 1
Put x = 1 into
x2 2x 3
2
x5
=
12 2 1 3 1 5
= 4
x 1 x 3x 6 11 1 3 1 6
2
I5 Find the value of 12 22 + 32 42 + + 992 1002.

Reference: 2002 FG2.3, 2004 HI1, 2015 FI3.2, 2015 FG4.1
12 22 + 32 42 + + 992 1002 = (12 22) + (32 42) + + (992 1002)
= (1 + 2)(1 2) + (3 + 4)(3 4) ++ (99 + 100)(99 100)
= 3 7 199 (sum of 50 terms of A.P., common difference = 4)
3 199
= 50
2
= 5050
x y
I6 If yz : zx : xy 1 : 2 : 3, find : .
yz zx
xyz xyz xyz
yz : zx : xy 1 : 2 : 3 : : 1:2:3
x y z
1 1 1
: : =1:2:3
x y z
1 1
x:y:z=1: :
2 3
x:y:z=6:3:2
Let x = 6k, y = 3k, z = 2k
x y 6k 3k 1
: = : =1: =4:1
yz zx 3k 2k 2k 6k 4
I7 Find the real roots of the equation: x(x + 1)(x2 + x + 1) = x.
x = 0 or (x + 1)(x2 + x + 1) = 1
x = 0 or x3 + 2x2 + 2x + 1 = 1
x = 0 or x3 + 2x2 + 2x = 0
x = 0 or x2 + 2x + 2 = 0
x = 0 or no solution ( = 22 42 = 4 < 0)
I8 There are 6 students in a class. Everyone sends one Christmas card to each of the rest of the
class. Find the total number of cards sent out by the class.
The total number of cards sent out = 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = 30
I9 If 2x2 8x + k 2(x 2)2 + 9, find the value of k.
Put x = 0, k = 2(2)2 + 9 = 17
I10 If the ten-digit number 1357p1357p is divisible by 9, find the value of p.
1 + 3 + 5 + 7 + p + 1 + 3 + 5 + 7 + p = 9m, where m is an integer.
32 + 2p = 9m (*)
1 + 24 = 9
32 + 2128 = 932
p = 128, m = 32 is a solution to (*)
General solution is p = 128 + 9k, m = 32 + 2k, where k is an integer.
0p9
0 128 + 9k 9
128 119
k
9 9
2 2
14 k 13
9 9
k = 14
p = 128 914 = 2
Group Events
G1 If a1, a2, a3, and b1, b2, b3, are arithmetic sequences, where a1 = 25, b1 = 75 and
a100 + b100 = 100. Find the sum of the first 100 terms of the sequence a1 + b1, a2 + b2, .
an = 25 + (n 1)d1, bn = 75 + (n 1)d2
a100 + b100 = 100 25 + 99d1 + 75 + 99d2 = 100
99d1 + 99d2 = 0
d1 + d2 = 0
an + bn = 25 + (n 1)d1 + 75 + (n 1)d2
= 100 + (n 1)(d1 + d2)
= 100
Let sn = sum of the first n terms of a1 + b1, a2 + b2,
s100 = (a1 + b1) + (a2 + b2) + + (a100 + b100)
= 100 + 100 + + 100 = 10000
2x
G2 If f (x) = and x1 = 1, xn = f (xn1), find x99 . (Reference: 1999 FI2.4)
x2
2 2
x2 = =
1 2 3
2 2 1 2
x3 = 2 3 = =
3
2 2 4
2 1 2
x4 = 1 2 =
2
2 5
2
Claim: xn = for n = 1, 2, 3,
n 1
Proof: n = 1, 2, 3, 4, proved above.
2
Suppose xk = for some positive integer k.
k 1
2 2 4 2
xk+1 = 2 k 1 = =
k 1
2 2k 4 k 2
By M.I., it is true for all positive integer n.
2 1
x99 = =
100 50
G3 ABCD is a trapezium, where AB // DC and D C
area of DCE : area of DCB 1 : 3,

E
find area of DEC : area of ABD.
Reference 1993 HI2, 2000 FI2.2, 2002 FI1.3, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2 A B
DCE and DCB have the same base

DE : DB = 1 : 3 DE : EB = 1 : 2
DCE ~ BAE area of DCE : area of BAE = 1 : 4
ADE and ABE have the same base
Area of ADE : area of ABE = DE : EB = 1 : 2
Area of ABD : area of ABE = 3 : 2
1 3 1
area of DEC : area of ABD = = = 1 : 6
4 2 6
222
G4 Let x be a positive integer. If x 1 1 1 is divisible by 3, find the least possible
333
value of x.
222
x 1 1 1 = 3m, where m is an integer.
333
22 2
2 x 1 1 9m
33 3
42 5
x 2 9m
33 3
4(2x 5) = 9(9m + 2)
8x 81m = 38 (*)
8(10) 81(1) = 1
8(380) 81(38) = 38
x = 380, m = 38 is a solution to (*)
General solution is x = 380 + 81k, m = 38 + 8k, where k is an integer.
For the least positive integral value of x, 380 + 81k > 0
380 56
k> =4
81 81
The least integral value of k = 5
x = 380 + 815 = 25
G5 Pipe A alone takes 20 hours to fill a tank and pipe B takes 5 hours to fill the same tank alone.
If pipes A and B together take x hours to fill the tank, find the value of x.
1 1 1
=
x 20 5
1 1
=
x 4
x=4
G6 Each interior angle of a regular polygon exceeds the exterior angle by 150. Find the number
of sides of the polygon. Reference: 1989 HI3
sides.
180 n 2 360
x= ,y=
n n
x = y + 150
180 n 2 360
= + 150
n n
180(n 2) = 360 + 150n
18n 36 = 36 + 15n
n = 24
1 1
G7 If x 3 , find the value of x 2 2 . (Reference: 1989 HI1)
x x
2
1
x 9
x
1
x2 2 2 9
x
1
x2 2 = 7
x
G8 Five numbers are in arithmetic progression. If the largest number is 7 times the smallest one
and the average of the five numbers is 32, find the smallest number.
Let the five numbers be 32 2d, 32 d, 32, 32 + d, 32 + 2d
32 + 2d = 7(32 2d)
16d = 192 d = 12
The smallest number = 32 2(12) = 8
G9 In the figure, three identical circles with radius r cm are tightly enclosed

in a triangle. If the perimeter of the triangle is 180 180 3 cm, find r.
6r tan 60 + 6r = 180 180 3
( 3 + 1)r = 30(1 + 3 )
r = 30
G10 Two fair dice are thrown. Find the probability that the sum is less than 5 and at least one die is
a 2.
Favourable outcome ={(2, 1), (2, 2), (1, 2)}
3 1
Probability = =
36 12
Individual Events
2
I1 a I2 a 12 I3 P 8 I4 n 9 I5 a 6
3
b 0 b 36 Q 12 b 3 b 30
c 3 c 12 R 4 c 8 c 4
d 6 d 5 S 70 d 62 d 4
Group Events
Group
G1 a 180 G2 a 1 G3 m 3 G4 a 99999919 G5 a 10 a 4
Spare
b 7 b 2 b 1 b 1 b 9 k 2
c 9 c 1 c 1.6 c 2 c 55 d 8.944
25
d 4 d 120 d 2 d 1891 d 16 r
24
3 1 7 2 3
I1.1 Given that + = and = 6 are simultaneous equations in a and u. Solve for a.
a u 2 a u
11 33
3(1) + (2): =
a 2
2
a=
3
I1.2 Three solutions of the equation px + qy + bz = 1 are (0, 3a, 1), (9a, 1, 2) and (0, 3a, 0). Find
3aq + b = 1

9ap q + 2b = 1
3aq = 1

Sub. (3) into (1): 1 + b = 1

b=0
I1.3 Find c so that the graph of y = mx + c passes through the two points (b + 4, 5) and (2, 2).
52 1
4 ( 2 ) 2
1
2
c=3
I1.4 The solution of the inequality x2 + 5x 2c 0 is d x 1. Find d.
x2 + 5x 6 0
(x + 6)(x 1) 0
6 x 1
d = 6
Individual Event 2
12 12 + 2 2 5 12 + 2 2 + 3 2 7 12 + 2 2 + 32 + 4 2
I2.1 By considering: =1, = , = , = 3 , find a such that
1 1+ 2 3 1+ 2 + 3 3 1+ 2 + 3 + 4
12 + 2 2 + L + a 2 25
= .
1+ 2 +L+ a 3
12 3 12 + 2 2 5 12 + 2 2 + 3 2 7 12 + 2 2 + 32 + 4 2 9
The given is equivalent to: = , = , = , =
1 3 1+ 2 3 1+ 2 + 3 3 1+ 2 + 3 + 4 3
and 21 + 1 = 3, 22 + 1 = 5, 23 + 1 = 7, 24 + 1 = 9; so 2a + 1 = 25
a = 12
I2.2 A triangular pyramid is cut from a corner of a cube with
side length a cm as the figure shown. If the volume of the
pyramid is b cm3, find b.
1 1 1 a 12 a 1
b = base area height = 2 a
3 3 2 2
1 3 1
= a = 12 3 = 36
48 48
I2.3 If the value of x2 + cx + b is not less than 0 for all real number x, find the maximum value of c
x2 + cx + 36 0
= c2 4(36) 0
c 12
The maximum value of c = 12.
I2.4 If the unit digit of 19971997 is c d, find d.
19971997 71997 74(499)+1 7 (mod 10)
The unit digit of 19971997 is 7
12 d = 7
d=5
Individual Event 3
I3.1 The average of a, b c and d is 8. If the average of a, b, c, d and P is P, find P.
a+b+c+d
=8
4
a + b + c + d = 32
a+b+c+d + P
=P
5
32 + P = 5P
P=8
I3.2 If the lines 2x + 3y + 2 = 0 and Px + Qy + 3 = 0 are parallel, find Q.
2 8
Their slopes are equal: =
3 Q
Q = 12
I3.3 The perimeter and the area of an equilateral triangle are Q cm and 3R cm2 respectively.
Find R.
Perimeter = 12 cm, side = 4 cm
1
Area = 4 2 sin 60 o = 4 3
2
R=4
I3.4 If (1 + 2 + + R)2 = 12 + 22 + + R2 + S, find S.
(1 + 2 + 3 + 4)2 = 12 + 22 + 32 + 42 +S
100 = 30 + S
S = 70
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If each interior angle of a n-sided regular polygon is 140, find n.
Each exterior angle is 40 (adj. s on st. line)
360 o
= 40 o
n
n=9
I4.2 If the solution of the inequality 2x2 nx + 9 < 0 is k < x < b, find b.
2x2 9x + 9 < 0
(2x 3)(x 3) < 0
3
<x<3
2
b=3
I4.3 If cx3 bx + x 1 is divided by x + 1, the remainder is 7, find c.
f (x) = cx3 3x + x 1
f (1) = c + 3 1 1 = 7
c=8
1 1
I4.4 If x + = c and x 2 + 2 = d , find d.
x x
1
x+ =8
x
2
1
x + = 64
x
1
x 2 + 2 + 2 = 64
x
d = 62
Individual Event 5
I5.1 The volume of a hemisphere with diameter a cm is 18 cm3, find a.
2
1 a
4 = 18
2 2
a=6
I5.2 If sin 10a = cos(360 b) and 0 < b < 90, find b.
sin 60 = cos(360 b)
360 b = 330
b = 30
I5.3 The triangle is formed by the x-axis and y-axis and the line bx + 2by = 120. If the bounded
area of the triangle is c, find c.
30x + 60y = 120
x + 2y = 4
x-intercept = 4, y-intercept = 2
1
c = 42= 4
2
I5.4 If the difference of the two roots of the equation x2 (c + 2)x + (c + 1) = 0 is d, find d.
x2 6x + 5 = 0
(x 1)(x 5) = 0
x = 1 or 5
d=51=4
Group Event 1
G1.1 In the given diagram, A + B + C + D + E = a, find a. A

In APQ, B + D = AQP (1) (ext. of ) E Q P
B
C + E = APQ (2) (ext. of )
A+B + C + D +E = A + AQP +APQ (by (1) and (2))
= 180 (s sum of )
D C
a = 180
G1.2 There are x terms in the algebraic expression x6 + x6 + x6 + + x6 and its sum is xb. Find b.
xx6 = xb
x7 = xb
b=7
3c 1
G1.3 If 1 + 3 + 32 + 33 + +38 = , find c.
2
39 1 3c 1
=
2 2
c=9
G1.4 16 cards are marked from 1 to 16 and one is drawn at random. If the chance of it being a
1
perfect square number is , find d.
d
Reference: 1995 HI4
Perfect square numbers are 1, 4, 9, 16.
4 1
Probability = =
16 d
d = 4.
Group Event 2
G2.1 If the sequence 1, 6 + 2a, 10 + 5a, forms an A.P., find a.
1 + 10 + 5a
6 + 2a =
2
12 + 4a = 11 + 5a
a=1
1
G2.2 If (0.002540)b = , find b.
100
b
1 1
40 =
400 100
1 1
b
= 2
10 10
b=2
3 1
G2.3 If c is an integer and c 3 + 3c + + 3 = 8 , find c.
c c
3
1
c + = 8
c
1
c+ =2
c
c2 2c + 1 = 0
c=1
G2.4 There are d different ways for arranging 5 girls in a row. Find d.
First position has 5 choices; 2nd position has 4 choices, , the last position has 1 choice.
d = 54321 = 120
Group Event 3
G3.1 Let m be an integer satisfying the inequality 14x 7(3x 8) < 4(25 + x).
Find the least value of m.
14x 21x + 56 < 100 + 4x
44 < 11x
4 < x
m = 3
G3.2 It is given that f ( x ) = x 3 2 x 2 + x 3 + 3 x 2 + 5 x + 7 4 x . If f(2) = b, find b.
1 2
3 3
f (x) = x3 + x2 + x + 7
b = f(2) = 8 + 4 2 + 7 = 1
x y
G3.3 It is given that log = 0.5 and log = 0.1 . If log xy = c, find c.
2 5
x y
log + log = 0.5 + 0.1
2 5
log xy 1 = 0.6
c = log xy = 1.6
G3.4 Three prime numbers d, e and f which are all less than 10, satisfy the two conditions d + e = f
and d < e. Find d.
Possible prime numbers are 2, 3, 5, 7.
d = 2, e = 3, f = 5
Group Event 4
G4.1 It is given that a = 1039710009, find a.
a = (100 + 3)(100 3)10009
= (10000 9)(10000 + 9)
= 100000000 81
a = 99999919
G4.2 It is given that 1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4 = 0. If b = 2 + x + x2 + x3 + x4 + + x1989, find b.
b = 1 + (1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4) + x5(1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4)+ + x1985(1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4) = 1
G4.3 It is given that m and n are two national numbers and both are not greater that 10. If c is the
1 1
number of pairs of m and n satisfying the equation mx = n, where < x < , find c.
4 3
1 m 1 n n
< < <m<
4 n 3 4 3
4 m n > 0

3m n < 0
3m < n < 4m
1 m 3 3m < n < 4m 410 = 40
Possible n = 4, 5, 6, , 10
4 4
4 3
5 5
4 3
6 6
4 3
7 7 2
when n = 7, < m < m = 2, x =
4 3 7
8 8
4 3
9 9
4 3
10 10 3
when n = 10, < m < m = 3, x =
4 3 10
c = 2 (There are 2 solutions.)
G4.4 Let x and y be real numbers and define the operation * as x*y = pxy + q + 1.
It is given that 1*2 = 869 and 2*3 = 883. If 2*9 = d, find d.
p + q + 1 = 869

8 p + q + 1 = 883
(2) (1): 7p = 14
p = 2, q = 866
d = 229 + 866 + 1 = 1891
Group Event 5
G5.1 If a is a positive multiple of 5, which gives remainder 1 when divided by 3, find the smallest
possible value of a. (Reference: 1998 FSG.1)
a = 5k = 3m + 1
52 = 33 + 1
G5.2 If x3 + 6x2 + 12x + 17 = (x + 2)3 + b, find b.
(x + 2)3 + b = x3 + 6x2 + 12x + 8 + b
b=9
G5.3 If c is a 2 digit positive integer such that sum of its digits is 10 and product of its digit is 25,
find c. (Reference: 1998 FSG.3)
c = 10x + y, where 0 < x < 10, 0 y < 10.
x + y = 10
xy = 25
G5.4 Let S1, S2,, S10 be the first ten terms of an A.P., which consists of positive integers.
10
[2a + (10 1)t ] = 55
2
2a + 9t = 11
d = (S10 S8) + (S9 S7) + + (S3 S1)
= [a + 9t (a + 7t)] + [a + 8t (a + 6t)] + + (a + 2t a)
d = 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t + 2t = 16t = 16
Group Spare
GS.1 ABCD is a parallelogram and E is the midpoint of CD. If the ratio of the area of the triangle
ADE to the area of the parallelogram ABCD is 1 : a, find a.
1:a=1:4
a=4
GS.2 ABCD is a parallelogram and E is the midpoint of CD.
A B
AE and BD meet at M. If DM : MB = 1 : k, find k.
It is easy to show that ABM ~ EDM (equiangular)
DM : MB = DE : AB = 1 : 2 M
k=2
D 1 E 1 C
GS.3 If the square root of 5 is approximately 2.236, the square root of 80 with the same precision is
d. Find d.
80 = 16 5 = 4 5 = 42.236 = 8.944
GS.4 A square is changed into a rectangle by increasing its length by 20% and decreasing its width
by 20%. If the ratio of the area of the rectangle to the area of the square is 1 : r, find r.
Let the side of the square be x
Ratio of areas = 1.2x0.8x : x2
25
= 0.96 : 1 = 1 :
24
25
r=
24
1 0 2 x6 x3 + 1 3 24 4 11 5 29
95-96
229 31
Individual 6 (2, 2) 7 216 8 =2 9 40 10 (xy)(yz)(zx)
99 99
1 49
1 6 2 3 3 cm 3 91 4 5
95-96 5 100
Group 365
6 432 7 400 8 9 6 10 5
38
Individual Events
I1 Find x if 4x3 = 8x2.
22(x 3) = 23(x 2)
2(x 3) = 3(x 2)
x=0
1 x x 1 1
2
I2 If f , find f (x3).
x
2
x x
1 x
Let y = , then xy = 1 + x
x
1
x=
y 1
1 1
f (y) = 1 2
x x
= 1 y 1 y 1
2
= y + y2 2y + 1
= y2 y + 1
f (y3) = y6 y3 + 1
f (x3) = x6 x3 + 1
I3 By considering n! = n(n 1) (n 2) 321, find the number of trailing zeros of 100!.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1994 FG7.1, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
I4 What is the largest integral value n that satisfies the inequality n200 < 5300 ?
Reference: 1999 FG5.3, 2008 FI4.3
n2 < 53 = 125
n < 125 < 144 = 12
The largest integral n = 11
I5 A set of 110 stamps of the denominations of $0.1, $3, $5 worth $100 in total.
Find the number of $3 stamps in the set of stamps.
Suppose there are x $0.1 stamps, y $3 stamps, (110 x y) $5 stamps; where x and y are
integers.
0.1x + 3y + 5(110 x y) = 100
x + 30y + 50(110 x y) = 1000
49x + 20y = 4500 (*)
49 = 202 + 9 (1) 9 = 49 202 (1)
20 = 92 + 2 (2) 2 = 20 92 (2)
9 = 24 + 1 (3) 1 = 9 24 (3)
Sub. (1) into (2): 2 = 20 (49 202)2 (4)
2 = 205 492 (5)
Sub. (1) and (5) into (3): 1 = (49 202) (205 492)4
1 = 499 2022
Multiply by 4500: 4940500 + 20(99000) = 4500
x = 40500, y = 99000 is a particular solution to (*)
The general solution is x = 40500 20m, y = 99000 + 49m, where m is an integer.
x > 0 and y > 0 and 110 x y > 0
40500 20m > 0 and 99000 + 49m > 0 and 110 (40500 20m) (99000 + 49m) > 0
20
2025 > m > 2020 and 58610 > 29m
49
20 1
2025 > m > 2020 and 2021 > m
49 29
m = 2021; y = 99000 + 492021 = 29
Method 2 (*) can be written as 49x = 20(225 y)
x is divisible by 20 and 225 y is divisible by 49
x 225 y y 110 x y
80 196 29 1
y = 29
I6 For any value of m, a straight line y = mx + 2m + 2 passes through a fixed point P. Find the
coordinates of P. Reference: 1990 HI5, 1991 HI6
Put m = 0, y = 2
Put m = 1 and y = 2 x = 2
The coordinates of P is (2, 2).
I7 How many 3-digit numbers can be made from the figures 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 when repetitions are
allowed?
The number of 3-digit numbers = 63 = 216
I8 Express 2.3 1 as a fraction.
Let a = 2.3 1
100a = 231.3 1
100a a = 229
229 31
a= =2
99 99
I9 If x and y are positive integers and x y = 5, find the least value of x2 y2 + 5.

x y = 5 x = 5 + y (1)
Sub. (1) into x2 y2 + 5 = (5 + y)2 y2 + 5
= 30 + 10y
y 1 30 + 10y 40
The least value of x2 y2 + 5 is 40.
I10 Factorize x2(y z) + y2(z x) + z2(x y).
Let f (x, y, z) = x2(y z) + y2(z x) + z2(x y)
f (x, y, z) = f (y, z, x) = f (z, x, y)
f (x, y, z) is a cyclic expression of order 3.
f (x, x, z) = x2(x z) + x2(z x) + z2(x x) = 0
(x y) is a factor
By symmetry, (y z) and (z x) are factors
f (x, y, z) = k(x y)(y z)(z x)
Compare the coefficients of x2y: k = 1
k = 1
x2(y z) + y2(z x) + z2(x y) = (x y)(y z)(z x)
Group Events
G1 In the figure, the quadratic curve y = f (x) cuts the x-axis
at the two points (1, 0) and (5, 0) and the y-axis at the
point (0, 10). Find the value of p.
f (x) = k(x 1)(x 5)
It passes through (0, 10) f (0) = 10
10 = k(0 1)(0 5) k = 2
f (x) = 2(x 1)(x 5)
f (4) = p = 2(4 1)(4 5) = 6
G2 In the figure, O is the centre of the base circle of a cone
and the points A, B, C and O lie in the same plane. An ant
walks from A to B on the surface of the cone. Find the
length of the shortest path from A to B.
Let the vertex of the cone be V.
If we cut the curved surface of the cone along OA, a
sector VACA is formed with C as the mid-point of AA .
Let AVB = (in degree), then AVB =
ACA = circumference of the base = 4 cm
V
2
2 6 = 4 6 cm
360 6 cm
3 cm
= 60
The shortest distance = the line segment AB B A
A'
By cosine rule, AB2 = [32 + 62 2(3)(6) cos 60] cm2
AB = 3 3 cm 4cm
C
G3 When a sum of $7020, in the form of ten-dollar notes, is divided equally among x persons,
$650 remains. When this sum $650 is changed to five-dollar coins and then divided equally
among the x persons, $195 remains. Find x.
Suppose each person gets a pieces of ten-dollar notes and b five-dollar coins.
7020 = 10ax + 650 (1), a, x are positive integers and x > 65
650 = 5bx + 195 (2), b, x are positive integers and x > 1955 = 39
From (1): 637 = ax (3)
From (2): 91 = bx (4)
From (3): 637 = 791 = 7713
The only positive factor of 91 is 91 which is greater than 65.
x = 91
G4 In a shooting competition, according to statistics, A misses one in every 5 shoots, B misses
one in every 4 shoots and C misses one in every 3 shoots. Find the probability of obtaining
successful shoots by A, B but not C.
4 3 1 1
Probability = =
5 4 3 5
1 1 1 1 1 1
G5 Given that , find the value of .
nn 1 n n 1 2 3 3 4 99 100
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 49
= = =
2 3 3 4 99 100 2 3 3 4 99 100 2 100 100
1
G6 If 3 is added to a 3-digit number A, the sum of the digits of the new number is of the value
3
of the sum of digits of the original number A. Find the sum of all such possible numbers A.
Let A = 100a + 10b + c
New number = 100a + 10b + c + 3
1
If c 6, a + b + c + 3 = (a + b + c)
3
2(a + b + c) + 9 = 0, no solution
If new number = 100a + 10(b + 1) + c + 3 10 = 100a + 10(b + 1) + c 7, c 7
1
a + b + 1 + c 7 = ( a + b + c)
3
2(a + b + c) 18 = 0
a+b+c=9
a b c A
1 0 8 108
1 1 7 117
2 0 7 207
If a 8, b = 9 and c 7, new number = 100(a + 1) + c 7
1
a + 1 + c 7 = (a + b + c)
3
2(a + c) 18 = 9
2(a + c) = 27, no solution
If a = 9, b = 9 and c 7, new number = 1000 + c 7
1
1 + c 7 = ( a + b + c)
3
3c 18 = 18 + c
c = 18, rejected
Sum of all possible A = 108 + 117 + 207 = 432
G7 In the figure, the side of each smaller square is 1 unit long. Find the
sum of the area of all possible rectangles (squares included) that can
be formed in the figure.
Sum of areas = 16 + 242 + 163 + 84 + 94 + 126 + 68 + 49 + 412 + 16 = 400
G8 If prime numbers a, b are the roots of the quadratic equation x2 21x + t = 0, find the value of
b a
.
a b
Reference: 1996FG7.1, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2, 2012 HI6
a + b = 21; ab = t
a, b are prime numbers and 21 is odd
a = 2, b = 19
t = ab = 38
b a a b
2 2
a b 2ab = 212 2 38 = 365
2
= =
a b ab ab 38 38
G9 Find the value of x such that the length of the
path APB in the figure is the smallest.
Reference: 1983 FG8.1, 1991 HG9, 1993 HI1
Let the straight line segment DPE be as shown
in the figure.
Reflect A along DE to A. Then ADP ADP
APB = AP + PB
It is the shortest when A, P, B are collinear.
In this case, APD = BPE (vert. opp. s)
APD ~ BPE (equiangular)
DP : AD = PE : BE (ratio of sides, ~ s) B
A
x 14 x
3 cm
4 cm
3 4
x cm P
4x = 42 3x D E
x=6 14 cm
A'
G10 Find the unit digit of the sum 12 + 22 + 32 + 42 + + 1234567892.

Reference 2012 HI1
Sum of unit digits from 12 to 102 = 1 + 4 + 9 + 6 + 5 + 6 + 9 + 4 + 1 + 0 = 25
Required unit digit = unit digit of 123456795 5 (mod 10)
Individual Events
7 11
I1 a 3 I2 a 9 I3 a 5 I4 a I5 a ISpare a 17
2 16
b 18 b 3 b 3 b 2 b 2 b 9
10
c 36 c 4 c 2 c 10 c c 1
21
5 9 23
d d 15 d 16 d d d 258
36 10 28
Group Events
G6 a 7 G7 a 2 G8 a 8 G9 a 2 G10 a 1003001
*see the remark
b 7 b 333 b 4 b 2 b 10
c 12 c 1 c 7 c 39923992 c 35
3
d 757 d 9 d d 885 d 92
2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is exactly the same in length as the perimeter of a
regular hexagon. The ratio of the areas of the triangle and the hexagon is 2 : a, find the value
of a. Reference: 2014 FI4.3
x = 2y
equilateral triangles.
1 1 x y
Ratio of areas = x 2 sin 60 o : 6 y 2 sin 60 o = 2 : a
2 2
2 2
x : 6y = 2 : a
(2y)2 : 6y2 = 2 : a
a=3
I1.2 If 5x + 5x = a and 53x + 53x = b, find the value of b.
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1998 FG5.2, 2010 FI3.2
(5x + 5x)2 = 32
52x + 2 + 52x = 9
52x + 52x = 7
b = (5x + 5x)(52x 1 + 52x)
= 3(7 1) = 18
I1.3 The figure shows an open cylindrical tube (radius = 1 cm) with a
hemispherical bottom of radius 1 cm. The height of the tube is b cm and
the external surface area of the tube is c cm2. Find the value of c.
c = 2rl + 2r2 = 2(1)(17) + 2(12) = 36
c = 36
c
I1.4 Two fair dice are thrown. Let d be the probability of getting the sum of scores to be . Find
6
the value of d.
5
Sum = 6, d = P(6) = P((1,5), (2, 4), (3, 3), (4, 2), (5, 1)) = .
36
Individual Event 2
1 1
I2.1 It is given that m, n > 0 and m + n = 1. If the minimum value of 1 + 1 + is a, find the
m n
value of a.
(m + n)2 = 1
m2 + n2 + 2mn = 1
m2 + n2 = 1 2mn
(m n)2 0
m2 2mn + n2 0
1 2mn 2mn 0
1 1
mn 4
4 mn
1 1 (1 + m )(1 + n ) 1 + m + n + mn 1 +1 + mn 2
1 + 1 + = = = = + 1 24 + 1 = 9
m n mn mn mn mn
I2.2 If the roots of the equation x2 (10 + a) x + 25 = 0 are the square of the roots of the equation
x2 + bx = 5, find the positive value of b. (Reference: 2001 FI3.4)
x2 19x + 25 = 0, roots = , ; + = 19, = 25
x2 + bx = 5, roots r, s; r + s = b, rs = 5
Now r2 = , s2 =
19 = + = r2 + s2 = (r + s)2 2rs = b2 2(5)
b2 = 9
Method 2 Replace x by x in x2 + bx = 5
x+b x=5
b x=5x
b2x = 25 10x + x2
x2 (10 + b2)x + 25 = 0, which is identical to x2 19x + 25 = 0
I2.3 If (xy 2)b1 + (x 2y)b1 = 0 and c = x2 + y2 1, find the value of c.
Reference: 2005FI4.1, 2006 FI4.2, 2009 FG1.4, 2013 FI1.4, 2015 HG4, 2015 FI1.1
(xy 2)2 + (x 2y)2 = 0
xy = 2 and x = 2y
2y2 = 2
y = 1, x = 2
c = x2 + y2 1 = 4 + 1 1 = 4
I2.4 If f (x) is a polynomial of degree two, f (f (x)) = x4 2x2 and d = f (c), find the value of d.
Let f (x) = px2 + qx + r
f (f (x)) = p(px2 + qx + r)2 + q(px2 + qx + r) + r x4 2x2
Compare coefficient of x4: p = 1
Compare coefficient of x3: 2q = 0 q = 0
Compare the constant: r2 + qr + r = 0 r = 0 or r + q + 1 = 0 (1)
Compare coefficient of x: 2qr + q2 = 0 q = 0 or 2r + q = 0 (2)
Sub. q = 0 into (1): r = 0 or 1
But q = 0, r = 1 does not satisfy 2r + q = 0 in (2)
(p, q, r) = (1, 0, 0) or (1, 0, 1)
Sub. (p, q, r) = (1, 0, 0) into f (f (x)) = x4 2x2 x4, which is a contradiction rejected
Sub. (p, q, r) = (1, 0, 1) into f (f (x)) = x4 2x2 (x2 1)2 1
RHS = x4 2x2 + 1 1 = LHS
f (x) = x2 1; d = f (4) = 42 1 = 15
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is a real number and 2a3 + a2 275 = 0, find the value of a.
Let f (a) = 2a3 + a2 275; 275 = 5511 2a 2 + 11a + 55
f (5) = 2125 + 25 275 = 0 a 5 2a 3 + a 2 275
f (a) = (a 5)(2a2 + 11a + 55)
2a 3 10a 2
of 2a + 11a + 55 is 11 4(2)(55) < 0
2 2
11a 2
a=5
11a 2 55a
55a 275
55a 275
I3.2 Find the value of b if 32353833b1 = 27a.

32+5+8+(3b1) = 335
Q 2 + 5 + 8 = 15
3b 1 = 8
b=3
I3.3 Find the value of c if logb(bc 8) = 2 c.
log3(3c 8) = 2 c
3c 8 = 32c
9
Let y = 3c; then 32c = 323c =
y
9
y8=
y
y2 8y 9 = 0
(y 9)(y + 1) = 0
y = 9 or 1
3c = 9 or 1 (rejected)
c=2
I3.4 If [(4c)c]c = 2d, find the value of d.
[(42)2]2 = 2d
48 = 2d
216 = 2d
d = 16
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In the figure, the area of the shaded region is a. Find
the value of a.
Equation of the other straight line is x + y = 3
The intersection point is (1, 2)
y-intercept of y = x + 1 is 1
Shaded area = area of big triangle area of small
= 3 3 (3 1) 1 =
1 1 7
2 2 2
I4.2 If 8b = 4a 43, find the value of b.
8b = 43.5 43 = 43(2 1) = 64; b = 2
10000
I4.3 Given that c is the positive root of the equation x2 100b + = 0, find the value of c.
x2
x4 200x2 + 10000 = 0
(x2 100)2 = 0
x = 10
1 1 1
I4.4 If d = + +L+ , find the value of d.
1 2 2 3 (c 1) c
1 1 1
d= + +L+
1 2 2 3 9 10
1 1 1 1 1
= 1 + + L +
2 3 4 9 10
1 9
= 1 =
10 10
Individual Event 5
I5.1 Four fair dice are thrown. Let a be the probability of getting at least half of the outcome of the
dice to be even. Find the value of a.
P(at least half of the outcome of the dice to be even)
= P(even, even, odd, odd) + P(even, even, even, odd) + P(even, even, even, even)
1 1 1 11
= 6 + 4 + =
16 16 16 16
I5.2 It is given that f (x) = x 2 (81) x and g(x) = 4 log10 (14x) 2 log10 49.
3 1
8
Find the value of b = f {g[16(1 a)]}.
11
g[16(1 a)] = g[16(1 )] = g(5)
16
= 4 log 70 2 log 49
= 4 log 70 4 log 7 = 4 log 10 = 4
b = f (g(5)) = f (4) = (4 ) (81) 4 = 6 9 2 = = 2
3 2 1 1 6
8 3
1 1 1 1
I5.3 Let c = 2 + + +L+ , find the value of c.
b 1 (2b ) 1 (3b ) 1
2 2
(10b )2 1
1 1 1 1
Hint: 2 =
x 1 2 x 1 x + 1
1 1 1 1 1 1 11 1 11 1 1 1 1
c= 2 + 2 + 2 +L+ 2 = 1 + + + L +
2 1 4 1 6 1 20 1 2 3 2 3 5 2 5 7 2 19 21
1 1 10
= 1 =
2 21 21
I5.4 In the following diagram, PC is a tangent to the circle (centre
O) at the point P, and ABO is an isosceles triangle,
10
AB = OB, PCO = c (= ) and d = QPC, where c, d are
21
22
radian measures. Find the value of d. (Take = )
7
Q AB = OB, let BAO = AOB = (base s, isos. )

Join OP. OPC = (tangent radius)
2
QOA = OP (radii), OPA = (base s, isos. )

In APC, + + + c = (s sum of )
2
10 11 10 23 23
2 = = = =
2 21 7 21 21 42
23
COQ = = (vert. opp. s)
42
23
Join AQ. QAO = = ( at centre twice at ce)
2 84
d = BAO + QAO ( in alt. segment)
23 23 23
=+ = + =
2 42 84 28
Spare Event (Individual)

IS.1 From the following figure, determine the number of
routes a from A to D.
a = 232 + 12 + 1 + 21 = 17
IS.2 If sin(2b + 2a) = cos(6b 16), where 0 < b < 90, find the value of b.
cos(90 2b 34) = cos(6b 16)
56 2b = 6b 16
72 = 8b
b=9
IS.3 The lines (bx 6y + 3) + k(x y + 1) = 0, where k is any real constant, pass through a fixed
point P(c, m), find the value of c.
The fixed point is the intersection of 9x 6y + 3 = 0 (1) and x y + 1 = 0 (2)
(1)3 2(2): x 1 = 0
x=1c=1
IS.4 It is known that d2 c = 257259. Find the positive value of d.
d2 1 = 257259
= (258 1)(258 + 1)
= 2582 1
d = 258
Group Event 6
G6.1 The number of eggs in a basket was a. Eggs were given out in three rounds. In the first round
half of egg plus half an egg were given out. In the second round, half of the remaining eggs
plus half an egg were given out. In the third round, again, half of the remaining eggs plus half
an egg were given out. The basket then became empty. Find a.
a 1 1 a 1 1 1 a 1 1 a 1 1 1
+ + + + + + = a
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
3 1 a 1 1 a 1 1 a 1 1 a
+ + + =
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
a 1 a 1 1 a 1 1
3 + + + = a
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
a 1
6 + a 1 + a 1 + 1 = 2a
2 2
a 1
3 = 0
2 2
a=7
G6.2 If p q = 2; p r = 1 and b = (r q)[(p q)2 + (p q)(p r) + (p r)2]. Find the value of b.
b = [p q (p r)][(p q)2 + (p q)(p r) + (p r)2]
= (2 1)[22 + 21 + 12]
= 23 13 = 7
G6.3 If n is a positive integer, m2n = 2 and c = 2m6n 4, find the value of c.
c = 2m6n 4
= 2(m2n)3 4
= 223 4 = 12
G6.4 If r, s, t, u are positive integers and r5 = s4, t3 = u2, t r = 19 and d = u s, find the value of d.
Reference: 1998 HG4
1 1 2 10 4 12
Let w = u 15 , v = s 15 , then t = u 3 = u 15 = w10 , r = s 5 = s 15 = v12
t r = 19 w10 v12 = 19
(w5 + v6)(w5 v6) = 191
Q 19 is a prime number, w5 + v6 = 19, w5 v6 = 1
Solving these equations give w5 = 10, v6 = 9 w5 = 10, v3 = 3
u = w15 = 1000, s = v15 = 35 = 729
d = u s = 1000 243 = 757
Group Event 7
G7.1 If the two distinct roots of the equation ax2 mx + 1996 = 0 are primes, find the value of a.
Reference: 1996 HG8, 2001 FG4.4, 2005 FG1.2, 2012 HI6
m 1996
Let the roots be , . + = , =
a a
1996 = 4499 and 499 is a prime
a = 1, 2, 4, 499, 998 or 1996
When a = 2, = 998; = 2, = 499 (accepted)
When a = 499, = 4, = 2, = 2 (not distinct roots, rejected)
Remark: the original question is:
If the two roots of the equation ax2 mx + 1996 = 0 are primes, find the value of a.
a = 2 or 499 (Not unique solution)
G7.2 A six-digit figure 111aaa is the product of two consecutive positive integers b and b + 1, find
the value of b.
Reference: 2001 FG2.3 Given that 111111222222 = c(c + 1)
111222 = 111000 + 222 = 1111000 + 2111 = 1111002 = 1113334 = 333334; b = 333
G7.3 If p, q, r are non-zero real numbers;

1 1 1 1 1 1
p2 + q2 + r2 = 1, p + + q + + r + + 3 = 0 and c = p + q + r, find the largest
q r r p p q
value of c.
p 2 (r + q ) + q 2 ( p + r ) + r 2 (q + p ) + 3 pqr
The second equation becomes: =0
pqr
p2(c p) + q2(c q) + r2(c r) + 3pqr = 0
c(p2 + q2 + r2) (p3 + q3 + r3 3pqr) = 0
c (p + q + r)(p2 + q2 + r2 pq qr pr) = 0
c c[1 (pq + qr + pr)] = 0
c(pq + qr + pr) = 0
c
[(p + q + r)2 (p2 + q2 + r2)] = 0
2
c(c2 1) = 0
c = 0, 1 or 1
Maximum c = 1
G7.4 If the unit digit of 714 is d, find the value of d.

71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401; the unit digits repeat in the pattern 7, 9, 3, 1,
714 = (74)3 72 d = 9
Group Event 8 In this question, all unnamed circles are unit circles.
G8.1 If the area of the rectangle ABCD is a + 4 3 , find the value of a.
The lines joining the centres form an equilateral triangle, side = 2.
AB = 2 + 2 sin 60 = 2 + 3
BC = 4
Area of ABCD = (2 + 3 )4 = 8 + 4 3
a=8
G8.2 If the area of the equilateral triangle PQR is 6 + b 3 , find the
value of b.
Reference: 1997 HG9
PQ = 2 + 2 tan 60 = 2 + 2 3
Area of PQR =
1
2
( 2
) (
2 + 2 3 sin 60 o = 2 1 + 2 3 + 3
2
)
3
6+b 3=6+4 3
b=4
G8.3 If the area of the circle EFG is

(c + 4 3 ) , find the value of c.
3
P
Let the centre be O, the equilateral triangle formed by the lines
joining the centres be PQR, the radius be r.
O
2 2+ 3
r = OE = OP + PE = 1 sec 30 + 1 = +1 = Q R
3 3
Area of circle =
(2 + 3 ) = (7 + 4 3 )
2
3 3
c=7
G8.4 If all the straight lines in the diagram below are common tangents
to the two circles, and the area of the shaded part is 6 + d, find the
value of d.
There are three identical shaded regions.
One shaded part = area of rectangle area of semi-circle

= 2 1 (1) = 2
1 2
2 2
3
Total shaded area = 3 2 = 6
2 2
3
d =
2
Group Event 9
G9.1 If (1995)a + (1996)a + (1997)a is divisible by 10, find the least possible integral value of a.
The unit digit of (1995)a + (1996)a + (1997)a is 0.
For any positive integral value of a, the unit digit of 1995a is 5, the unit digit of 1996a is 6.
The unit digit of 1997a repeats in the pattern 7, 9, 3, 1,

5 + 6 + 9 = 20
So the least possible integral value of a is 2.
G9.2 If the expression (x2 + y2)2 b(x4 + y4) holds for all real values of x and y, find the least
possible integral value of b.
b(x4 + y4) (x2 + y2)2 = b(x4 + y4) (x4 + y4 + 2x2y2) = (b 1)x4 2x2y2 + (b 1)y4
If b = 1, the expression = 2x2y2 which cannot be positive for all values of x and y.
If b 1, discriminant = (2)2 4(b 1)2 = 4(1 b2 + 2b 1) = 4b(b 2)

In order that the expression is always non-negative, (b 1) > 0 and discriminant 0
b > 1 and 4b(b 2) 0
b > 1 and (b 0 or b 2)
b 2, the least possible integral value of b is 2.
G9.3 If c = 199619971997 199519961996, find the value of c.

c = 199619971001 199519961001 = 10011996(1997 1995)
= 39921001 = 39923992
G9.4 Find the sum d where
1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 58 58 59
d = + + +L+ + + + +L+ + + +L+ +L+ + +
2 3 4 60 3 4 5 60 4 5 60 59 60 60
Reference: 1995 HG3
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 1 2 59
d = + + + + + + + + + +L+ + +L+
2 3 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 60 60 60
1 32 43 54 6059
= + 2 + 2 + 2 +L+ 2
2 3 4 5 60
1 2 3 4 59
= + + + +L+
2 2 2 2 2
= (1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + L + 59 )
1
2
1 1
= 60 59 = 885
2 2
Group Event 10
2
G10.1 It is given that 3456 = 19 1
2
4567 = 29 1
5678 = 412 1
6789 = 552 1
If a2 = 1000100110021003 + 1, find the value of a.
19 = 45 1; 29 = 56 1; 41 = 67 1; 55 = 56 1
a2 = (10011002 1)2 1 + 1 = (10011002 1)2
a = 1003002 1 = 1003001
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 10
G10.2 Let f(x) = x + x + x + x + x + x + x + x + x + 1. When f(x ) is divided by f(x), the
remainder is b. Find the value of b.
Consider the roots of f (x) = x9 + x8 + x7 + x6 + x5 + x4 + x3 + x2 + x + 1 = 0
x10 1
f (x) can be rewritten as = 0, where x 1
x 1
There are 9 roots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9: where i10 = 1and i 1 for 1 i 9
Let f (x10) = f (x) Q(x) + a8 x8 + a7x7 + a6x6 + a5x5 + a4x4 + a3x3 + a2x2 + a1x + a0.
f(i10) = f(i) Q(i) + a8 i8 + a7i7 + a6i6 + a5i5 + a4i4 + a3i3 + a2i2 + a1i+ a0, 1 i 9
f(1) = 0Q(i) + a8 i8 + a7i7 + a6i6 + a5i5 + a4i4 + a3i3 + a2i2 + a1i+ a0 for 1 i 9
a8 i8 + a7i7 + a6i6 + a5i5 + a4i4 + a3i3 + a2i2 + a1i+ a0 = 10 for 1 i 9
i (1 i 9) are the roots of a8 x8 + a7x7 + a6x6 + a5x5 + a4x4 + a3x3 + a2x2 + a1x + a0 10 = 0
Since a polynomial of degree 8 has at most 8 roots and it is satisfied by i for 1 i 9.
a8 x8 + a7x7 + a6x6 + a5x5 + a4x4 + a3x3 + a2x2 + a1x + a0 10 must be a zero polynomial.
a8 = 0, a7 = 0, a6 = 0, a5 = 0, a4 = 0, a3 = 0, a2 = 0, a1 = 0, a0 = 10
The remainder when f (x10) is divided by f (x) is a0 = 10.
f(x10) = x90 + x80 + x70 + x60 + x50 + x40 + x30 + x20 + x10 + 1
= x90 1 + x80 1 + x70 1+ x60 1 + x50 1 + x40 1 + x30 1 + x20 1 + x10 1 + 10
= (x10 1)g1(x) + (x10 1)g2(x) + (x10 1)g3(x) + + (x10 1)g9(x) + 10
where g1(x) = x80 + x70 + + x10 + 1, g2(x) = x70 + x60 + + x10 + 1, , g9(x) = 1
f(x10) = (x10 1)[g1(x) + g2(x) + + g9(x)] + 10
= f (x)(x 1)[g1(x) + g2(x) + + g9(x)] + 10
Clearly f (1) = 10.
By remainder theorem, f (x) = (x 1)Q(x) + 10, where Q(x) is a polynomial
f (x10) = (x10 1)Q(x10) + 10
= (x 1)(x9 + x8 + x7 + x6 + x5 + x4 + x3 + x2 + x + 1)Q(x10) + 10
= f (x)(x 1)Q(x10) + 10
p 7 p 11
G10.3 The fraction is in its simplest form. If < < where q is the smallest possible
q 10 q 15
positive integer and c = pq. Find the value of c.
Reference 2005 HI1, 2010 HG7
7 p 11 7 p 11
< < 1 > 1 > 1
10 q 15 10 q 15
3 q p 4 10 q 15
> > < <
10 q 15 3 q p 4
1 q 3 1 3 p 2q 3
< 3< < <
3 q p 4 3 q p 4
3 p 2q 1
= 3p 2q = 1, q p = 2
q p 2
7 5 11
Solving the equations gives p = 5, q = 7, < < , c = 35
10 7 15
G10.4 A positive integer d when divided by 7 will have 1 as its remainder; when divided by 5 will
have 2 as its remainder and when divided by 3 will have 2 as its remainder. Find the least
possible value of d.
d = 7m + 1 = 5n + 2 = 3r + 2
7m 5n = 1 (1)
5n = 3r (2)
From (2), n = 3k, r = 5k
Sub. n = 3k into (1), 7m 5(3k) = 1
7m 15k = 1
14 + 15 = 1 A possible solution is m = 2, k = 1
m = 2 + 15t, k = 1 + 7t
When t = 1, m = 13, k = 6, n = 18, r = 30.
The least possible value of d = 3(30) + 2 = 92
2 11 4
1 1111111 2 3 0, 2 4 5
94-95 3 450 3
Individual 1
6 5 7 1 8 7 9 10 12
6
45
1 1 2 132 3 4 45 5 24
94-95 2
Group 2
6 5130 7 2 3 3 8 8 9 124 10
3
Individual Events
I1 Find the square root of 1234567654321.
Observe the pattern 112 = 121; 1112 = 12321, 11112 = 1234321,
1234567654321 = 11111112
1234567654321 = 1111111 (7 digits)
1 x
I2 Given that f , find the value of f (2).
x 1 x
2
1 1
2
f (2) = f 1 = 2 2 =
2 1 2 3
1
I3 Solve 32x + 9 = 10(3x).

Let y = 3x, then y2 = 32x
y2 + 9 = 10y
y2 10y + 9 = 0
(y 1)(y 9) = 0
y = 1 or y = 9
3x = 1 or 3x = 9
x = 0 or 2
I4 A three-digit number is selected at random. Find the probability that the number selected is a
perfect square.
The three-digit numbers consists of {100, 101, , 999}, altogether 900 numbers.
Favourable outcomes = {100, 121, , 961} = {102, 112, , 312}, 22 outcomes
22 11
P(perfect squares) = =
900 450
1
I5 Given that sin x + cos x = and 0 x , find tan x.
5
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1993 G10, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4, 2014 HG3
1
(sin + cos )2 =
25
1
sin2 + 2 sin cos + cos2 =
25
1
1 + 2 sin cos =
25
12
sin cos =
25
25 sin cos = 12(sin2 + cos2 )
12sin2 + 25 sin cos + 12cos2 = 0
(3 sin + 4 cos )(4 sin + 3 cos ) = 0
4 3
tan = or
3 4
4 4 3
Check when tan = , then sin = , cos =
3 5 5
4 3 1
LHS = sin + cos = + = = RHS
5 5 5
3 3 4
When tan = , then sin = , cos =
4 5 5
3 4 1
LHS = sin + cos = = RHS
5 5 5
4
B = tan =
3
I6 How many pairs of positive integers x, y are there satisfying xy 3x 2y = 10?
xy 3x 2y + 6 = 10 + 6
(x 3)(y 2) = 16
x3 y2 16 x y
1 16 4 18
2 8 5 10
4 4 7 6
8 2 11 4
16 1 19 3
There are 5 pairs of positive integers.
I7 x, y are positive integers and 3x + 5y = 123. Find the least value of |x y|.
x = 41, y = 0 is a particular solution of the equation.
The general solution is x = 41 5t, y = 3t, where t is any integer.
|x y| = |41 5t 3t| = |41 8t|
The least value is |41 85| = 1.

Note that 71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401.
Also, 74n+1 7 (mod 10), 74n+2 9 (mod 10), 74n+3 3 (mod 10), 74n 1 (mod 10)
1997913 7913 (mod 10) 7912 +1 74(228)+1 7 (mod 10)
The remainder is 7.
I9 Area of ADE
In figure 1, if BC = 3DE, find the value of r where r = .
Area of BDC
ADE ~ ABC
2
Area of ADE 1 1
=
Area of ABC 3 9
Area of ADE 1 1
= (1)
Area of BCED 9 1 8
AE : AC = DE : BC = 1 : 3 (ratio of sides, ~)
AE : EC = 1 : 2
ADE and CDE have the same height with base ratio 1 : 2
Area of ADE AE 1
= (2)
Area of CDE CE 2
Area of ADE 1 1
r= = by (1) and (2)
Area of BDC 8 2 6
I10 A, B, C, D are points on the sides of the right-angled triangle PQR as
shown in figure 2. If ABCD is a square, QA = 8 and BR = 18, find AB.
Let BRC = , then DQA = 90 (s sum of )
DAQ = 90 ( of a square), QDA = (s sum of )
BC = BR tan = 18 tan = AD (opp. sides of square)
QA = 8 = AD tan = 18 tan2
2
tan =
3
2
AB = BC = 18 tan = 18 = 12
3
Method 2
It is easy to show that PDC ~ AQD ~ BCR (equiangular)
Let AB = AD = BC = CD = x
PD : PC : x = 8 : x : QD = x : 18 : CR (cor. sides, ~s)
x2 = 818
AB = x = 12
Group Events
G1 Find the number of positive integral solutions of the equation x3 + (x + 1)3 + (x + 2)3 = (x + 3)3
Expand: x3 + x3 + 3x2 + 3x + 1 + x3 + 6x2 + 12x + 8 = x3 + 9x2 + 27x + 27
2x3 12x 18 = 0
x3 6x 9 = 0; let f (x) = x3 6x 9
f (3) = 27 18 9 = 0 x 3 is a factor.
By division, (x 3)(x2 + 3x + 3) = 0
3 3
x = 3 or (rejected)
2
There is one positive integral solution x = 3.
G2 In figure 1, ABCD is a quadrilateral whose diagonals intersect at O.
If AOB = 30, AC = 24 and BD = 22,
find the area of the quadrilateral ABCD.
1
The area = 24 22 sin 30
2
= 132
1 2 3 n 1 n 1
G3 Given that = ,
n n n n 2
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 9
find the value of + + ++ . Reference: 1996 FG9.4
2 3 3 4 4 4 10 10
1 1 2 1 2 3 1 9

2 3 3 4 4 4 10 10
1 2 3 4 9
=
2 2 2 2 2
1 2 9 45
=
2 2
G4 Suppose x and y are positive integers such that x2 = y2 + 2000, find the least value of x.
x2 y2 = 2000 = 12000
= 21000
= 4500
= 5400
= 8250
= 10200
= 16125
= 20100
= 2580
= 4050
(x + y)(x y) = 2000
x and y are positive integers
x + y and x y are also positive integers
x>y
x is the least when y is the largest
The difference between x and y is the largest
x + y = 50, x y = 40
Solving, x = 45
G5 Given that 37100 is a 157-digit number, and 3715 is an n-digit number. Find n.
Let y = 37100, then log y = log 37100 = 156 + a, where 0 a < 1
100 log 37 = 156 + a
15 log 37 =
15
156 a
100
log 3715 = 23.4 + 0.15a
23 < log 3715 < 24
3715 is a 24 digit number.
n = 24.
G6 Given that 12 + 22 + 32 + + n2 =
n
n 12n 1 ,
6
find the value of 1921 + 1822 + 1723 + + 139.
1921 + 1822 + 1723 + + 139
= (20 1)(20 + 1) + (20 2)(20 + 2) + (20 3)(20 + 3) + + (20 19)(20 + 19)
= (202 12) + (202 22) + (202 32) + + (202 192)
= 202 + + 202 (19 times) (12 + 22 + 32 + + 192)
= 19400
19
2039
6
= 7600 2470
= 5130
G7 In figure 2, ABCD is a square where AB = 1 and CPQ is an equilateral
triangle. Find the area of CPQ.
Let AQ = AP = x.
Then BQ = DP = (1 x)
By Pythagoras Theorem,
CP = CQ 1 + (1 x)2 = x2 + x2
2 2x + x2 = 2x2
x2 + 2x 2 = 0 x2 = 2 2x
x = 1 3
Area of CPQ = Area of square area of APQ 2 area of CDP
x2 1 1 x x2 2 2x
=1 2 =x =x = 2x 1
2 2 2 2

= 2 1 3 1= 2 3 3
1 1
Method 2 Area of CPQ = PQ 2 sin 60 x 2 x 2
2 2

2
3

=
3x 2

3 1 3 2 3
2 3 3
2 2
G8 The number of ways to pay a sum of $17 by using $1 coins, $2 coins and $5 coins is n. Find n.
(Assume that all types of coins must be used each time.)
Suppose we used x + 1 $1 coins, y + 1 $2 coins, z + 1 $5 coins, where x, y, z are non-negative
integers. Then (x + 1) + 2(y + 1) + 5(z + 1) = 17
x + 2y + 5z = 9
(x, y, z) = (9, 0, 0), (7, 1, 0), (5, 2, 0), (3, 3, 0), (1, 4, 0), (4, 0, 1), (2, 1, 1), (0, 2, 5).
Altogether 8 ways.
G9 In figure 3, find the total number of triangles in the 33 square.
Reference: 1998 HG9
There are 36 smallest triangles with length = 1

Altogether 124 triangles.
G10 In figure 4, the radius of the quadrant and the diameter of the large
semi-circle is 2. Find the radius of the small semi-circle.
Let the radius of the smaller semi-circle be r cm.
Let A, D, E be the centres of the quadrant, the larger and the smaller
semi-circles respectively.
BAC = 90
DE intersects the two semicircles at F. B
AE = EC = 1 cm r cm
BD = DF = r cm D
AC = AB = 2 cm F
AD = (2 r) cm, DE = (1 + r) cm (2 - r) cm
AD2 + AE2 = DE2 (Pythagoras theorem) A
12 + (2 r)2 = (1 + r)2 C 1 cm E 1 cm
1 + 4 4r + r2 = 1 + 2r + r2
2
r=
3
Individual Events
1 1
I1 a I2 x 0 I3 a I4 r 3 I5 a 2
2 2
b 3 2 y 3 b 8 s 4 b 2
c 3 z 2 c 2 t 5 c 12
1
d 1 w d 120 u 41 d 16 3
6
Group Events
1
G6 a 5 G7 a G8 V 1 G9 A 9 G10 a 4
2
b 2 b 2 2 V 0 B 6 b 13
1
c c 700 r 3 C 8 c 16
4
1 1
d d 333 V 35 D 2 d
1995 10
Individual Event 1
1
I1.1 Find a, if a = log 1 .
4
2
1
2
1 1 1
a = log 1 = log 1 =
4
4
2 4 2
I1.2 In the figure, AB = AD = DC = 4, BD = 2a. B
Find b, the length of BC.
Let ADB = , CDB = 180 (adj. s on st. line) 4 2a
a 1 A C
In ABD, cos = = 4 D 4
4 8
Apply cosine formula on BCD.
b2 = (2a)2 + 42 2(2a)4cos(180 )
1
b2 = 1 + 16 24(cos ) = 17 + 8 = 18
8
b =3 2
I1.3 It is given that f (x) = px3 + qx + 5 and f (7) = 2 b + 1. Find c, if c = f (7).
p(7)3 + q(7) + 5 = 2 3 2 + 1 = 7
[p(7)3 + q(7)] = 2
c = f (7)
= p(7)3 + q(7) + 5
= 2 + 5 = 3
I1.4 Find the least positive integer d, such that dc + 1000 is divisible by 10 + c.
d3 + 1000 is divisible by 13
1377 = 1001 = 1000 + 13
d=1
Individual Event 2
x x
I2.1 If = , find x.
(x 1)(x 4) (x 2)(x 3)
Reference: 1998 HI3
x = 0 or (x 1)(x 4) = (x 2)(x 3)
x = 0 or x2 5x + 4 = x2 5x + 6
x = 0 or 4 = 6
x=0
I2.2 If f (t) = 352t and y = f (x), find y.
y = f (0) = 3520 = 3
I2.3 A can finish a job in y days, B can finish a job in (y + 3) days. If they worked together, they
can finish the job in z days, find z.
1 1 1 1
= + =
z 3 6 2
z=2
I2.4 The probability of throwing z dice to score 7 is w, find w.
6 1
P( sum of 2 dice = 7) = P((1,6), (2,5), (3,4), (4,3), (5,2), (6, 1)) = =
36 6
1
w=
6
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a = sin 30 + sin 300 + sin 3000, find a.
1 3 1 3 3 1
a= + sin(3608 + 120) = + =
2 2 2 2 2 2
x+ y z+x y+z
I3.2 It is given that = = and x + y + z = 36a. Find the value of b, if b = x + y .
2 3 4
x + y = 2k (1)
z + x = 3k (2)
y + z = 4k (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(x + y + z) = 9k
1
2(36)( ) = 9k
2
k=4
b=x+y
= 2k
= 2(4) = 8
I3.3 It is given that the equation x + 6 + 8k = k(x + b) has positive integral solution.
Find c, the least value of k.
x + 6 + 8k = k(x + 8)
(k 1)x = 6
If k = 1, the equation has no solution
6
If k 1, x =
k 1
The positive integral solution, 6 must be divisible by k 1.
The least positive factor of 6 is 1, c = 2
I3.4 A car has already travelled 40% of its journey at an average speed of 40c km/h. In order to
make the average speed of the whole journey become 100 km/h, the speed of the car is
adjusted to d km/h to complete the rest of the journey. Find d.
Let the total distance be s.
s
= 100
0 .4 s 0 .6 s
+
40(2 ) d
1 3 1
+ =
200 5d 100
120 1
=
200d 200
d = 120
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In triangle ABC, B = 90, BC = 7 and AB = 24. If r is C
the radius of the inscribed circle, find r.
Let O be the centre of the inscribed circle, which touches
B A
BC, CA, AB at P, Q, R respectively.
OP BC, OQ AC, OR AB (tangent radius) C7 -r
Q
7-r
ORBP is a rectangle (it has 3 right angles) r
r 24 - r
P O
BR = r, BP = r (opp. sides of rectangle) r r
B r R 24 - r A
CP = 7 r, AR = 24 r
AC2 = AB2 + BC2 (Pythagoras Theorem)
= 242 + 72 = 625
AC = 25
CQ = 7 r, AQ = 24 r (tangent from ext. point)
CQ + AQ = AC
7 r + 24 r = 25
r=3
I4.2 If x2 + x 1 = 0 and s = x3 + 2x2 + r, find s.
By division, s = x3 + 2x2 + 3 = (x + 1)(x2 + x 1) + 4 = 4
I4.3 It is given that F1 = F2 = 1 and Fn = Fn1 + Fn2, where n 3. If Ft = s + 1, find t.
Ft = 4 + 1 = 5
F3 = 1 + 1 = 2, F4 = 2 + 1 = 3, F5 = 3 + 2 = 5
t=5
I4.4 If u = t (t + 1)(t + 2)(t + 3) + 1 , find u.
Reference: 1993 HG6, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3
u = 5 6 7 8 + 1 = 40 42 + 1
= (41 1) (41 + 1) + 1 = 412 1 + 1
u = 41
Individual Event 5
1
3
I5.1 It is given that log7(log3(log2 x)) = 0. Find a, if a = x .
log3(log2 x) = 1
log2 x = 3
x = 23 = 8
1
a = x3 = 2
a P
I5.2 In the figure, PQ is a diagonal of the cube and PQ = .
2
Find b, if b is the total surface area of the cube.
Let the length of the cube be x. PQ = 1
x2 + x2 + x2 = 1 (Pythagoras Theorem)
3x2 = 1 Q
The total surface area = b = 6x2 = 2
I5.3 In the figure, L1 and L2 are tangents to the three L1
circles. If the radius of the largest circle is 18 and
the radius of the smallest circle is 4b, find c, W
where c is the radius of the circle W.
Let the centres of the 3 circles be A, B, C as
shown in the figure.
L1 touches the circles at D, E, F as shown. L2
AD L1, WE L1, BF L1 (tangent radius)
Let AB intersects the circle W at P and Q. F
AD = AP = 4b = 8, EW = WQ = PW = c E
QB = BF = 18 (radii of the circle) D
Draw AG // DE, WH // EF as shown G
8 c-8
H
18 - c
EW // FB (int. supp.) A 8 P
c
W
c
Q 18
B
AWG = WBH (corr. s EW // FB)
AG GW, WH HB (by construction)
AGW ~ WHB (equiangular)
GW = c 8, BH = c + 18 (opp. sides of rectangle)
c 8 18 c
= (ratio of sides, ~ )
c + 8 c + 18
(c 8)(c + 18) = (c + 8)(18 c)
c2 + 10c 144 = c2 + 10c + 144
2c2 = 2(144)
c = 12
I5.4 Refer to the figure, ABCD is a rectangle. AE BD and A D
c
BE = EO = . Find d, the area of the rectangle ABCD.
6
BO = 4 = OD = AO = OC (diagonal of rectangle) O
AE2 = OA2 OE2 = 42 22 = 12 (Pythagoras Theorem)
E
AE = 2 3 B C
ABD CDB (R.H.S.)
d = 2area of ABD
2 (4 + 4 ) 2 3
=
2
= 16 3
Group Event 6
G6.1 2a9b is a four digit number and its thousands digit is 2, its hundreds digit is a, its tens digit is
9 and its units digit is b, find a, b.
2a9b = 2000 + 100a + 90 + b
If a = 0, 9b = 2090 + b
93 = 729, 94 = 6561
No solution for a
a > 0 and 0 b 3, 2000 + 100a + 90 + b is divisible by 2
b = 0 or 2
If b = 0, 2a = 2090 + 100a
210 = 1024, 211 = 2048, 212 = 4096 and 0 a 9
No solution for a
b = 2, 2000 + 100a + 92 is divisible by 9
2 + a + 9 + 2 = 9m, where m is a positive integer
a = 5, b = 2
Check: 2592 = 3281 = 2592 = 2000 + 100(5) + 90 + 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
G6.2 Find c, if c = 1 + + + + 1 + + + + .
2 3 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3
1 1 1 1 1 1
Let x = 1 + + , y = 1 + + + , then c = x(y 1) y(x 1) = x + y =
2 3 2 3 4 4
G6.3 Find d, if
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
d = 1 + + + L + + + L + 1 + + + L + + + L +
2 3 1994 2 3 1995 2 3 1995 2 3 1994
1 1 1 1 1 1
x = 1+ + +L+ , y =1 + + + L +
2 3 1994 2 3 1995
d = x(y 1) y(x 1)
1
= x + y =
1995
Group Event 7
G7.1 Let p, q, r be the three sides of triangle PQR. If p4 + q4 + r4 = 2r2(p2 + q2),
find a, where a = cos2 R and R denotes the angle opposite r.
p2 + q2 r 2
cos R =
2 pq
a = cos2 R
=
(p 2
+ q2 r 2 )
2
4 p 2q2
p 4 + q 4 + r 4 + 2 p 2 q 2 2 p 2 r 2 2q 2 r 2
=
4 p2q 2
=
( )
2r 2 p 2 + q 2 + 2 p 2 q 2 2 p 2 r 2 2q 2 r 2
4 p2q 2
2 p 2q2 1
= 2 2=
4p q 2
G7.2 Refer to the diagram, P is any point inside the square OABC and b is the A B (1, 1)
minimum value of PO + PA + PB + PC, find b.

PO + PA + PB + PC OB + AC (triangle inequality)
P
C
= 2 OB O
= 2 12 + 12
b =2 2
G7.3 Identical matches of length l are used to
arrange the following pattern, if c denotes the
}
total length of matches used, find c.
1st row = 4 25
1st row + 2nd row = 4 + 6 = 10
. rows
1st + 2nd + 3rd = 4 + 6 + 8 = 18
.................................................. .
c = 1st + + 25th row .
= 4 + 6 + 8 + + [4 + (25 1)2] . . .
n[2a + (n 1)d ]
=
2
25[2(4 ) + (24 )(2 )]
=
2
= 700
G7.4 Find d, where d = 111111 222 .
111111 222 = 111(1001 2)
= 111999
= 32 1112
= 3332
d = 333
Group Event 8
Rectangles of length l and breadth b where l, b are positive integers,
are drawn on square grid paper. For each of these rectangles, a
diagonal is drawn and the number of vertices V intersected (excluding
the two end points) is counted (see figure).
G8.1 Find V, when l = 6, b = 4.
Intersection point = (3, 2)
V=1 l=b=3
G.8.2 Find V, when l = 5, b = 3 V=2
As 3 and 5 are relatively prime, there is no intersection V = 0
G8.3 When l = 12 and 1 < b < 12, find r, the number of different values of b that makes V = 0?
b = 5, 7, 11 are relatively prime to 12.
The number of different values of b = 3
G8.4 Find V, when l = 108, b = 72.
H.C.F. (108, 72) = 36, 108 = 363, 72 = 362
Intersection points = (3, 2), (6, 4), (9, 6), , (105, 70)
V = 35
Group Event 9
A, B, C, D are different integers ranging from 0 to 9 and A A B C
Find A, B, C and D. B A C B
If A = 0, then B 1, (AABC) (BACB) < 0 rejected D A C D
A > 0, consider the hundreds digit:
If there is no borrow digit in the hundreds digit, then A A = A
A = 0 rejected
There is a borrow digit in the hundreds digit. Also, there is a borrow digit in the thousands digit
10 + A 1 A = A
A=9
Consider the thousands digit: A 1 B = D
B + D = 8 (1)
Consider the units digit:
If C < B, then 10 + C B = D
10 + C = B + D
10 + C = 8 by (1)
C = 2 (rejected)
C > B and there is no borrow digit in the tens digit
Consider the tens digit: 10 + B C = C
10 + B = 2C (2)
Consider the units digit, Q C > B C B = D
C=B+D
C = 8 by (1)
Sub. C = 8 into (2)
10 + B = 16
B=6
Sub. B = 6 into (1), 6 + D = 8
D=2
A = 9, B = 6, C = 8, D = 2
Group Event 10 y
Lattice points are points on a rectangular
coordinate plane having both x- and
y-coordinates being integers. A moving point
P is initially located at (0, 0). It moves 1 unit
along the coordinate lines (in either
directions) in a single step.
G10.1 If P moves 1 step then P can reach a
different lattice points, find a. x
(1, 0), (1, 0), (0, 1), (0, 1)
a=4
G10.2 If P moves not more than 2 steps then
P can reach b different lattice points,
find b.
(1, 0), (1, 0), (0, 1), (0, 1),
(1, 1), (1, (1, 1), (1, 1), (1, 1)
(2, 0), (2, 0), (0, 2), (0, 2), (0, 0)
b = 13
G10.3 If P moves 3 steps then P can reach c
different lattice points, find c.
(1, 0), (1, 0), (0, 1), (0, 1), (3, 0), (2, 1), (1, 2), (0, 3), (1, 2), (2, 1), (3, 0), (2, 1),
(1, 2), (0, 3), (1, 2), (2, 1); c = 4 + 12 = 16
G10.4 If d is the probability that P lies on the straight line x + y = 9 when P advances 9 steps, find d.
Total number of outcomes = 4 + 12 + 20 + 28 + 36 = 100
Favourable outcomes = {(0,9), (1,8), (2,7), , (9,0)}, number = 10
1
Probability =
10
4
93-94 1 9 2 3 256 4 6 5 30:15:10:6
Individual 9
6 8 7 3 8 6.8 9 6 10 28
1 16
1 2 972 cm2 3 100 4 5 9
93-94 5 3
Group 1 56
6 27 7 17 8 9 9 10
2 113
Individual Events
1 1 1
I1 Suppose log3 p = 1 + + + + L to an infinite number of terms. Find p.
2 4 8
Reference: 2012 HI5
1 a 1
log 3 p = = 2 (sum to infinity of a G.P. = , a = 1, r = )
1 1 r 2
1
2
p = 32 = 9
I2 Two numbers are drawn from the set of numbers 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. Find the
probability that the sum of these two numbers is even.
P(sum = even) = P(odd + odd or even + even)
= P(odd + odd) + P(even + even)
4 3 5 4
= +
9 8 9 8
32 4
= =
72 9
2 * (2 * (2 * 2))
I3 Given a * b = a b , find the value of .
((2 * 2) * 2) * 2
2*2 = 22 = 4
2*(2*2) = 24 = 16; (2*2)*2 = 42 = 16
2*(2*(2*2)) = 216; ((2*2)*2)*2 = 162 = 28
2 * (2 * (2 * 2)) 216
= 8 = 28 = 256
((2 * 2) * 2) * 2 2
I4 If loga x = 2 and 2a + x = 8, find a + x.

x = a2 .
2a + a2 = 8
a2 + 2a 8 = 0
(a + 4)(a 2) = 0
a = 4 (rejected, because 4 cannot be the base) or a = 2
x = a2 = 4
a+x=2+4=6
I5 If a : b = 2 : 1, b : c = 3 : 2 and c : d = 5 : 3, find a : b : c : d.
a : b = 30 : 15, b : c = 15 : 10, c : d = 10 : 6
a : b : c : d = 30 : 15 : 10 : 6
I6 A, B, C, D are different integers ranging from 0 to 9 and

A B C D
9
D C B A
Find C.
Reference: 1987 FG9
Consider the thousands digit.
9A = D
A = 1, D = 9
Q there is no carry digit in the hundreds digit
B=0
Consider the tens digit.
9C + 8 0 (mod 10)
9C 2 (mod 10)
C=8
I7 Find the last digit of the number 31993.

31 = 3, 32 = 9, 33 = 27, 34 = 81
The pattern of unit digit repeat for every multiples of 4.
31993 = (34)4983 13 (mod 10)
I8 In figure 1, CD bisects BCA, BE // CA, BC = 10, CA = 15

and CD = 10.2. Find the length of DE.
Let BCD = = ACD (angle bisector)
BED = (alt. s, AC // EB)
BE = BC = 10 (sides opp. equal angles)
Let CAD = = EBD (alt. s, AC // EB)
(Figure 1)
ACD ~ BED (equiangular)
DE 10
= (ratio of sides, ~)
10.2 15
DE = 6.8
I9 In figure 2, XY = 3, YZ = 4 and ZX = 5. Semi-circles are

Y
constructed with M, N, O as centres as shown where M, N,
O are mid-points of XY, YZ and ZX respectively. Find the
sum of the shaded areas. (Reference: 2009 FG4.2) M N
Sum of the shaded areas
= Ssemi-circle XMY + Ssemi-circle YNZ + SXYZ Ssemi-circle XYZ
X Z
3 4 1 5
2 2 2 O
= + + 3 4 (Figure 2)
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
=6
I10 In figure 3, O is the centre of the circle, OE = DE and B
AOB = 84. Find a if ADE = a.
DOE = a (base s isos. ODE) E
OEB = 2a (ext. of ODE) A

84
D
OBE = 2a (base s isos. OBE) O
BOE = 180 4a (s sum of OBE)
84 + 180 4a + a = 180 (adj. s on st. line) (Figure 3)
a = 28
G1 Find the least value of x so that |1 2x| + |1 3x| + |1 5x| = 1.

1 Method 2
When x < , 1 2x + 1 3x + 1 5x = 1
5 By triangle inequality |a| + |b| |a + b|
1 |1 2x| + |1 3x| + |1 5x|
x= (rejected)
5 |1 2x + 1 3x + 5x 1| = 1
1 1 Equality holds when 1 2x, 1 3x and 5x 1
When x , 1 2x + 1 3x + 5x 1 = 1
5 3 1 1 1
i.e. x and x and x
1 1 2 3 5
0=0 x
5 3 1 1
i.e x
1 1 3 5
When < x , 1 2x + 3x 1 + 5x 1 = 1
3 2 1
The minimum value of x = .
1 5
6x = 2 x = (rejected)
3
1
When < x, 2x 1 + 3x 1 + 5x 1 = 1
2
2
x= (rejected)
5
1
The least value of x = .
5
G2 A solid cube with edges of length 9 cm is painted completely on the outside. It is then cut into
27 congruent little cubes with edges 3 cm. Find the total area of the unpainted faces of these
cubes.
There are 6 cubes each painted with 1 side. Number of unpainted surfaces = 5/cube
There is 1 cube which is unpainted.
Total area of the unpainted faces = (83 + 124 + 65 + 16) 32 cm2 = 972 cm2
Method 2 Total surface area of the 27 little cubes = 27632 cm2 = 1458 cm2
Total area of painted surface = 692 cm2 = 486 cm2
The total area of the unpainted faces of these cubes = (1458 486) cm2 = 972 cm2
G3 In a race of 2000 m, A finishes 200 m ahead of B and 290 m ahead of C. If B and C continue
to run at their previous average speeds, then B will finish x metres ahead of C. Find x.
Let the speeds of A, B C be a m/s, b m/s, c m/s respectively.
Suppose A, B, C finishes the race in t1 s, t2 s, t3 s.
at1 = 2000
bt1 + 200 = 2000 bt1 = 1800 (1)
ct1 + 290 = 2000 ct1 = 1710 (2)
c 1710 19
(2) (1): = = (3)
b 1800 20
2000
t2 = (4)
b
x = 2000 ct2
c
= 2000 2000 by (4)
b
c 19
= 2000 1 = 2000 1 by (3)
b 20
1
= 2000 = 100
20
G4 Given that the perimeter of an equilateral triangle inscribed in a circle is 12. Find the area of
the circle in terms of .
The length of the triangle = 4
Let the radius of the circumscribed circle be r.
2r cos 30 = 4
4
r=
3
2
4 16
The area of the circle = =
3 3
G5 Given that x > 0 and y > 0, find the value of y if (log3 x )(log x 2 x )(log 2 x y ) = log x x 2 .
log x log 2 x log y log x 2

By the change of base formula, = =2
log 3 log x log 2 x log x
log y = 2 log 3
y=9
G6 There are n rectangles in figure 1. Find n.
Let the length and the width of the smallest rectangle be a and b
respectively.
Number of the smallest rectangles = 7
Number of rectangles with dimension 2ab = 5 (Figure 1)
Number of rectangles with dimension 3ab = 3
Total number of rectangles = 7 + 4 + 1 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 3 + 2 + 1 = 27
G7 The base of a triangle is 80 cm and one of the base angles is 60. The sum of the lengths of
the other two sides is 90 cm. The length of the shortest side of this triangle is a cm. Find a.
Let B = 60, BC = 80 cm, AB = c cm, AC = b cm, then b + c = 90.
By cosine rule, b2 = (90 c)2 = 802 + c2 2c80 cos 60
8100 180c = 6400 80c
1700 = 100c
c = 17, b = 90 17 = 73
The shortest side is 17 cm (a = 17).
G8 A student on a vacation of d days observed that:
(i) it rained 7 times, morning or afternoons;
(ii) when it rained in the afternoon, it was clear in the morning;
(iii) there were 5 clear afternoons;
(iv) there were 6 clear mornings.
What is the value of d?
Suppose it rained in the morning for x days, rained in the afternoon in y days and the number
of clear days (both in the morning and the afternoon) be z.
x + y = 7 (1)
x + z = 5 (2)
y + z = 6 (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(x + y + z) = 18
d=x+y+z=9
G9 [a] denotes the greatest integer not greater than a. For example, [1] = 1, [ 2 ] = 1 ,
1
[ 2 ] = 2 . If [5 x] = 3 x + , find the value of x.
2
1 1
[5 x] = 3 x + 5x = 3x + + a, where 0 a < 1
2 2
1 1
a = 2x 0 2x < 1
2 2
1 3
2x <
2 2
3 9
3x <
4 4
5 1 11
3x + <
4 2 4
1 1
Q 3x + is an integer 3x + = 2
2 2
1
x=
2
1 1 2
G10 Given that = .
n n + 2 n ( n + 2)
1 1 1 1 1
Find the value of a if a = + + +L+ +L+ .
1 3 3 5 5 7 n ( n + 2) 111 113
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
a = 1 + + + L +
2 3 3 5 5 7 111 113
1 1
= 1
2 113
56
=
113
Individual Events
5
SI a 2 I1 a 6 I2 A I3 a 6 I4 a 8 I5 A 1
16
b 54 b 12 B 60 b *9 b 10 B 36
see the remarks
1
c 2 c 10 C 15 c 16 c 3 C
2
d 1 d 20 D 68 d 48 d 203 D 50
Group Events
1
SG a 19 G6 a 4, G7 a 24 G8 a 56 G9 A 2 G10 a 10
2
b 8 b 16 b 1024 b 83 B 1 b 37
1 3 1
c c c 2 c 256 C 4 c
50 7 16
d 200 d 186 d 1 d 711040 D 9 d 4
SI.1 The sum of two numbers is 40, their product is 20. If the sum of their reciprocals is a, find a.
x + y = 40; xy = 20
1 1
a=
x y
x y
=
xy
40
= =2
20
SI.2 If b cm2 is the total surface area of a cube of side (a 1) cm, find b.
b = 6(2 + 1)2 = 54
SI.3 One ball is taken at random from a bag containing (b 4) white balls and (b + 46) red balls. If
c
is the probability that the ball is white, find c.
6
There are 50 white balls and 100 red balls.
50 1 2 c
P(white ball) =
150 3 6 6
c=2
1 2
2 sin 60 d 3
2
3d 3
d=1
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The equation x2 ax + (a + 3) = 0 has equal roots. Find a, if a is a positive integer.
= (a)2 4(a + 3) = 0
a2 4a 12 = 0
(a 6)(a + 2) = 0
a = 6 or a = 2 (rejected)
I1.2 In a test, there are 20 questions. a marks will be given to a correct answer and 3 marks will be
deducted for each wrong answer. A student has done all the 20 questions and scored 48 marks.
Find b, the number of questions that he has answered correctly.
6b 3(20 b) = 48
9b = 108
b = 12
I1.3 If x : y 2 : 3, x : z 4 : 5, y : z b : c, find c.
x:y:z=4:6:5
y : z = 6 : 5 = 12 : 10
c = 10
I1.4 Let P(x, d) be a point on the straight line x + y = 22 such that the slope of OP equals to c (O is
the origin). Determine d.
x + d = 22
x = 22 d
d
mOP = =c
x
d
10
22 d
d = 220 10d
d = 20
Individual Event 2
3
I2.1 In square PQRS, Y is the mid-point of the side QR and PX = PQ . P X Q
4
If A is the ratio of the area of the shaded triangle to the area of the
square, find A. Y
Let PQ = 4x, PX = 3x, QX = x, QY = YR = 2x
A=
4 x 2 12 4 x3x 12 x2 x 12 4 x2 x S R
4 x 2
5
=
16
I2.2 A man bought a number of ping-pong balls where a 16A% sales tax is added. If he did not
have to pay tax he could have bought 3 more balls for the same amount of money. If B is the
total number of balls that he bought, find B.
Let the price of 1 ping-pong ball be x. Sales tax = 5%
Bx(1 + 5%) = (B + 3)x
21
B= B + 3
20
21B = 20B + 60
B = 60
I2.3 Refer to the diagram, find C. R S
C
PQS = C (s in the same segment)
B
C + 45 = B (ext. of )
45
C = 60 45 = 15 Q P
I2.4 The sum of 2C consecutive even numbers is 1170. If D is the largest of them, find D.
30
2 D 30 1 2 1170
2
D = 68
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If 183a8 is a mu1tiple of 287, find a.
287 = 741 and 26147 = 18298
183a8 18298 = 10(a + 1), a multiple of 7
a=6
183a8
Method 2 The quotient should be a two digit number.
287
183
The first digit of (approximate value) is 6. The last digit must be 4 ( 74 = 28)
3
28764 = 18368
a=6
I3.2 The number of positive factors of a2 is b, find b.
Reference 1993 HI8, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2002 FG4.1, 2005 FI4.4
Remark: The original question is: The number of factors of a2 , which may include
negative factors.
62 = 2232
Factors of 36 are in the form 2x3y, where 0 x 2, 0 y 2.
The number of factors = (1 + 2)(1 + 2) = 9
I3.3 In an urn, there are c balls, b of them are either black or red, (b + 2) of them are either red or
white and 12 of them are either black or white. Find c.
Suppose there are x black balls, y red balls, z white balls.
x + y = 9 (1)
y + z = 11 (2)
z + x = 12 (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(x + y + z) = 32
c = x + y + z = 16
I3.4 Given f (3 + x) = f (3 x) for all values of x, and the equation f (x) = 0 has exactly c distinct
roots. Find d, the sum of these roots.
Let one root be 3 + .
f (3 + ) = 0 = f (3 )
3 is also a root.
3++3=6
Sum of a pair of roots = 6
There are 16 roots, i.e. 8 pairs of roots
Sum of all roots = 86 = 48
Individual Event 4
I4.1 The remainder when x6 8x3 + 6 is divided by (x 1)(x 2) is 7x a, find a.
Let f (x) = x6 8x3 + 6
f (1) = 1 8 + 6 = 7 a
a=8
I4.2 If x2 x + 1 = 0 and b = x3 3x2 + 3x + a, find b.
b = x(x2 x + 1) 2(x2 x + 1) + 10
= 10
I4.3 Refer to the diagram, find c. E
C
Reference: 1989 FG10.2 A b 15
ADE ~ ABC, AD : AB = 10 : 15 = 2 : 3 9
D
c
AD : DB = 2 : 1
G F B
BD : AB = 1 : 3
BDF ~ BAG, c : 9 = 1 : 3
c=3
I4.4 If c boys were all born in June 1990 and the probability that their birthdays are all different is
d
, find d.
225
29 28 d
P(3 boys were born in different days) = 1
30 30 225
d = 203
Individual Event 5
4 4 2
I5.1 Given 1 2 0 . If A = , find A.
x x x
2
2
1 0
x
2
A= =1
x
I5.2 If B circular pipes each with an internal diameter of A cm carry the same amount of water as a
pipe with an internal diameter 6 cm, find B.
(1)2B = (6)2
B = 36
I5.3 If C is the area of the triangle formed by x-axis, y-axis and the line Bx + 9y = 18, find C.
36x + 9y = 18
1
x-intercept = , y-intercept = 2
2
1 1 1
C = 2=
2 2 2
I5.4 Fifteen square tiles with side 10C units long are arranged as P
shown. An ant walks along the edges of the tiles, always
keeping a black tile on its left. Find the shortest distance D that
the ant would walk in going from P to Q.
Q
Length of a square = 10C = 5 P
As shown in the figure, D = 10(10C) = 50

SG.1 If x*y = xy + 1 and a = (2*4)*2, find a.
2*4 = 2(4) + 1 = 9
(2 * 4)*2 = 9*2 = 9(2) + 1 = 19
SG.2 If the bth prime number is a, find b.

List the prime number in ascending order: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19.
b=8
1 1 1 1
SG.3 If c = 1 1 1 1 , find c in the simplest fractional form.
2 3 4 50
1 2 3 49 1
c =
2 3 4 50 50
SG.4 If d is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of radius 10, find d.

Diameter = 20 = diagonal of the square
Let the side of the square be x.
By Pythagoras Theorem, 2x2 = 202 = 400
d = x2 = 200
Group Event 6
G6.1 If log2 a 2 loga 2 = 1, find a.
log a 2 log 2
1
log 2 log a
(log a)2 2 (log 2)2 = log 2 log a
(log a)2 log 2 log a 2 (log 2)2 = 0
(log a 2 log 2)(log a + log 2) = 0
log a = 2 log 2 or log 2
1
a = 4 or
2
G6.2 If b = log3[2(3 + 1)(32 + 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1], find b.

b = log3[(3 1)(3 + 1)(32 + 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3[(32 1)(32 + 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3[(34 1)(34 + 1)(34 + 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3[(38 1)(38 + 1) + 1]
= log3(316 1 + 1) = 16
G6.3 If a 31-day month is taken at random, find c, the probability that there are 5 Sundays in the
month.
1st day = Sunday 29th day = 5th Sunday
1st day = Saturday 30th day = 5th Sunday
1st day = Friday 31st day = 5th Sunday
3
Probability =
7
G6.4 A group of 5 people is to be selected from 6 men and 4 women. Find d, the number of ways
that there are always more men than women.
3 men and 2 women, number of combinations = C36 C24 = 120
4 men and 1 woman, number of combinations = C46 C14 = 60
5 men, number of combinations = C56 = 6
Total number of ways = 120 + 60 + 6 = 186
Group Event 7
G7.1 There are a zeros at the end of the product 123100. Find a.
Reference: 1990 HG6, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
a = 24
G7.2 Find b, if b is the remainder when 199810 is divided by 104.

199810 = (2000 2)10
10
= Ck10 200010k 2 k
k 0
9
= Ck10 200010k 2 k 210
k 0
210 mod 104 ( C910 2000109 21 = 10000m, where m is an integer)

1024 mod 104
b = 1024
G7.3 Find the largest value of c, if c = 2 x + 2 x 1 and x > 1.

(c + x 2)2 = 4(x 1)
c2 + x2 + 4 + 2cx 4x 4c = 4x 4
x2 + 2(c 4)x + (c2 4c + 8) = 0
For real values of x, 0
4(c 4)2 4(c2 4c + 8) 0
c2 8c + 16 c2 + 4c 8 0
8 4c
c2
The largest value c = 2
Method 2
Let y = x 1 , then y2 = x 1
x = y2 + 1
c = 2 (y2 + 1) + 2y = 2 (1 y)2 2
The largest value of c = 2.
3 2d
G7.4 Find the least value of d, if 2 3.
5
3 2d
3 23
5
3 2d
5 1
5
25 3 2d 5
28 2d 2
14 d 1
The least value of d = 1
Group Event 8
G8.1 From 1 to 121, there are a numbers which are multiplies of 3 or 5. Find a.
Number of multiples of 3 or 5 = a = 40 + 24 8 = 56
G8.2 From 1 to 121, there are b numbers which are not divisible by 5 nor 7. Find b.
Number of multiples of 5 or 7 = 24 + 17 3 = 38
Number which are not divisible by 5 nor 7 = 121 38 = 83
From the digits 1, 2, 3, 4, when each digit can be used repeatedly, 4-digit numbers are formed. Find
G8.3 c, the number of 4-digit numbers that can be formed.
c = 44 = 256
G8.4 d, the sum of all these 4-digit numbers.
Reference: 2002 HI4
There are 256 different numbers
1, 2, 3, 4 each appears 64 times in the thousands, hundreds, tens and units digit.
d = [1000(1 + 2 + 3 + 4) + 100(1 + 2 + 3 + 4) + 10(1 + 2 + 3 + 4) + 1 + 2 + 3 + 4]64
= 1111(10)64 = 711040
Group Event 9
A, B, C, D are different integers ranging from 0 to 9 and A B A
Find A, B, C and D. A B A
(ABA)2 = (CCDCC) < 100000 C C D C C
(ABA) < 100000 < 316
A = 1, 2 or 3
When A = 1, then A2 = 1 = C contradict that A and C must be different rejected
When A = 2, C = 4
(202 + 10B)2 = 44044 + 100D
40804 + 4040B + 100B2 = 44044 + 100D
4040B + 100B2 = 3240 + 100D
404B + 10B2 = 324 + 10D
B = 1, 414 = 324 + 10D
D=9
When A = 3, C = 9
(303 + 10B)2 = 99099 + 100D
91809 + 6060B + 100B2 = 99099 + 100D
606B + 10B2 = 729 + 10D
B = 1, 616 = 729 + 10D
no solution for D
A = 2, B = 1, C = 4, D = 9
Group Event 10
In rectangle ABCD, AD 10, CD 15, P is a point inside the rectangle such that PB 9, PA 12.
Find (Reference: 2001 FG2.2, 2003 FI3.4)
G10.1 a, the length of PD and
A 15
AP2 + BP2 = 122 + 92 = 144 + 81 = 225 = 152 = AB2 B

APB = 90 (Converse, Pythagoras theorem)
9 3 4 12 9
Let ABP = , then cos = = , sin = 10 10
15 5 5
P
BAP = 90 (s sum of )
DAP = D
C
PBC = 90
3
a = PD = 10 2 12 2 2 10 12 (Cosine rule on ADP)
5
a = 10
G10.2 b, the length of PC.

4
b = CP = 10 2 9 2 2 10 9 = 37
5
sin 20 cos 20 cos 40 cos 60 cos 80

G10.3 It is given that sin 2 = 2 sin cos . Find c, if c = .
sin 160
2 sin 20 cos 20 cos 40 cos 60 cos 80 2 sin 40 cos 40 cos 60 cos 80
C= =
2 sin 160 4 sin 160
2 sin 80 cos 60 cos 80 sin 160 12 1
= = =
8 sin 160 8 sin 160 16
tan A tan B
G10.4 It is given that tan(A + B) = . Find d, if
1 tan A tan B
d = (1 + tan 21)(1 + tan 22)(1 + tan 23)(1 + tan 24).
tan A tan B
If A + B = 45, 1 = tan(A + B) =
1 tan A tan B
1 tan A tan B = tan A + tan B
2 = 1 + tan A + tan B + tan A tan B
(1 + tan A)(1 + tan B) = 2
d = (1 + tan 21) (1 + tan 24)(1 + tan 22)(1 + tan 23)
= 22 = 4
3
92-93 1 34 2 121 3 2 4 5 720
Individual 5
6 11260 7 11 8 80 9 13 10 9
1 2 km 2 45 3 6 4 211 5 9
92-93
13
Group 6 7 7 26 8 2 3 9 70 10
3
Individual Events
I1 X is a point on the line segment BC as shown in figure 1. D
A
If AB 7, CD 9 and BC 30 , find the minimum value of AX + XD. 9
7
Reference: 1983 FG8.1, 1991 HG9, 1996 HG9
B C
Reflect point A along BC to A. X
30
By the property of reflection.
AB BC and AB = 7 (Figure 1)
Join AD, which cuts BC at X.
ABX ABX (S.A.S.)
AX + XD = AX + XD
This is the minimum when A, X, D are collinear.
Draw AE // BC which intersects DC produced at E.
Then AE DE (corr. s, BC // AE)
AE = 30 and CE = 7 (opp. sides, rectangle)
AD2 = 302 + (7 + 9)2 = 1156 AD = 34
The minimum value of AX + XD = 34
I2 In quadrilateral ABCD, AD // BC, and AC, BD intersect at O (as shown A D
in figure 2). Given that area of BOC 36, area of AOD 25,
determine the area of the quadrilateral ABCD. O
Reference: 1997 HG3, 2000 FI2.2, 2002 FI1.3, 2004 HG7, 2010HG4, 2013 HG2
B C
AOD ~ COB (equiangular)
(Figure 2)
AO 2 area of AOD 25

OC 2 area of BOC 36
AO 5

OC 6
5 5
Area of AOB = area of BOC = 36 = 30
6 6
6 6
Area of COD = area of AOD = 25 = 30
5 5
Area of quadrilateral ABCD = 25 + 30 + 36 + 30 = 121
I3 In figure 3, ABCD is a square of side 8( 2 1) . Find the radius of the A B

small circle at the centre of the square.
Let AC and BD intersect at O. AC BD.
Let H, K be the centres of two adjacent circles touch each other at E.
The small circle touches one of the other circles at P.
(Figure 3)
HE = EK =
CD
4

= 2 2 1 = KP, HK = 4 2 1 C
A
D
B
OH = OK = HK cos 45 = 2 2 2

OP = OK KP = 2 2 2 2 2 1 = 2 O
The radius = 2 P
H E K
D C
I4 Thirty cards are marked from 1 to 30 and one is drawn at random. Find the probability of
getting a multiple of 2 or a multiple of 5.
Let A be the event that the number drawn is a multiple of 2.
B be the event that the number drawn is a multiple of 5.
A B is the event that the number drawn is a multiple of 10.
P(A B) = P(A) + P(B) P(A B)
15 6 3
=
30 30 30
18 3
= =
30 5
I5 The areas of three different faces of a rectangular box are 120, 72 and 60 respectively. Find its
volume.
Let the lengths of sides of the box be a, b, c, where a > b > c.
ab = 120 (1)
bc = 60 (2)
ca = 72 (3)
(1)(2) (3): (abc)2 = (6062)2
abc = 720 The volume is 720.
n(n 1)(2n 1)
I6 For any positive integer n , it is known that 12 + 22 + + n2 = . Find the value
6
of 122 + 142 + 162 + + 402. (Reference: 1989 HG3)
122 + 142 + 162 + + 402 = 4 6 2 7 2 82 20 2

= 4 12 20 2 12 52
202141 5611
= 4
6 6
= 4(2870 55) = 11260
I7 If x and y are prime numbers such that x2 y2 = 117, find the value of x.
(x + y)(x y) = 117 = 3213
Without loss of generality, assume x y.
x + y = 117, x y = 1 (1)
or x + y = 39, x y = 3 (2)
or x + y = 13, x y = 9 (3)
From (3), x = 11, y = 2 x = 11
I8 If m is the total number of positive divisors of 54000, find the value of m.

Reference 1994 FI3.2, 1997 HI3, 1998 HI10, 1998 FI1.4, 2002 FG4.1, 2005 FI4.4
54000 = 243353
Positive divisors are in the form 2x3y5z where x, y, z are integers and 0 x 4, 0y3, 0z3
Total number of positive factors = 544 = 80
I9 If a is a real number such that a 2 a 1 0 , find the value of a 4 2a 3 3a 2 2a 10 .
Reference: 2000 HG1, 2001 FG2.1, 2007 HG3, 2009 HG2 a2 a 3
By division algorithm, a 2 a 1 a 4 2a 3 3a 2 2a 10
a 4 2a 3 3a 2 2a 10 a 4 a3 a 2
= (a2 a 1)(a2 a + 3) + 13
a 3 4a 2 2a
= 13
a3 a2 a
3a 2 3a 10
3a 2 3a 3
13
I10 In figure 4, BDE and AEC are straight lines, AB 2, BC 3, B
ABC 60 , AE : EC 1 : 2. If BD : DE 9 : 1 and area of
a 3
DBA = , find the value of a.
20 D
1 2 3 3 3
Area of ABC = AB BC sin 60 = 3 = A C
2 2 2 2 E
1 3 (Figure 4)
Area of ABE = area of ABC =
3 2
9 9 3
Area of ABD = area of ABE =
10 20
a=9
Group Events
G1 A car P is 10 2 km north of another car Q. The two P
P 4 km/h 3 km/h
4 km/h
cars start to move at the same time with P moving
C
south-east at 4 km/h and Q moving north-east at 3 A
5 km/h
10 2 km B
km/h. Find their smallest distance of separation in km. 10 2 km
Consider the relative velocity.
Q G
Keep Q fixed, the velocity of P relative to Q is 5 km/h
3 km/h Q
distance diagram velocity diagram
in the direction of PB, where BPQ = .
Let APB = , APQ = 45
3 4
sin = , cos =
5 5
sin = sin(45 ) = sin 45 cos cos 45 sin
1 4 1 3 1
= =
2 5 2 5 5 2
When the course of PB is nearest to Q (i.e at G),
1
The shortest distance is GQ = PQ sin = 10 2 = 2 km
5 2
G2 If , are the roots of the equation x2 3x 3 = 0, find 3 + 12.
2 3 3 = 0
3 = 32 + 3 = 3(3 + 3) + 3 = 12 + 9
+ = 3, = 3
3 + 12 = 12 + 9 + 12
= 123 + 9 = 45
G3 As shown in figure 1, the area of ABC is 10. D, E, F are C
points on AB, BC and CA respectively such that AD : DB
2 : 3, and area of ABE area of quadrilateral BEFD. F E
Find the area of ABE.
Join DE. Area of ADE = area of DEF
A B
ADE and DEF have the same base and the same height D
DE // AC (Figure 1)
BE : EC = BD : DA = 3 : 2 (theorem of equal ratio)
BE 3
Area of DEF = Area of ABC = 10 =6
BC 3 2
G4 What is the maximum number of regions produced by drawing 20 straight lines on a plane?
2 lines: maximum number of regions = 4 = 2 + 2
3 lines: maximum number of regions = 7 = 2 + 2 + 3
4 lines: maximum number of regions = 11 = 2 + 2 + 3 + 4
..............................................................................................
21
20 lines, maximum number of regions = 2 + 2 + 3 + + 20 = 1 20 = 211
2
G5 The product of 4 consecutive positive integers is 3024. Find the largest integer among the four.
Let the four integers be x, x + 1, x + 2, x + 3.
Reference 1993 HG6, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3, 2013HI5
x(x + 1)(x + 2)(x + 3) = 3024 Method 2
(x2 + 3x)(x2 + 3x + 2) = 3024 3024 + 1 = 3025 = 552
(x2 + 3x)2 + 2(x2 + 3x) + 1 = 3025 3024 = 552 12 = (55 1)(55 + 1)
2 2 2
(x + 3x + 1) = 55 3024 = 5456 = 6978
x2 + 3x + 1 = 55 or x2 + 3x + 1 = 55
The largest integer is 9.
x2 + 3x 54 = 0 or x2 + 3x + 56 = 0
(x 6)(x + 9) = 0 or no real solution
x>0x=6
The largest integer = 9
G6 Find the sum of all real roots of the equation (x + 2)(x + 3)(x + 4)(x + 5) = 3.
Reference 1993 HG5, 1995 FI4.4, 1996 FG10.1, 2000 FG3.1, 2004 FG3.1, 2012 FI2.3, 2013 HI5
Let t = x + 3.5 Method 2
(t 1.5)(t 0.5)(t + 0.5)(t + 1.5) = 3 (x + 2)(x + 5)(x + 3)(x + 4) = 3
5 2 9 (x2 + 7x + 10)(x2 + 7x + 12) = 3
t t 3 0
4
2 16 Let y = x2 + 7x
2
2 5 (y + 10)(y + 12) = 3
t 4 0 y2 + 22y + 117 = 0
4
(y + 9)(y + 13) = 0
2 5 2 5 When y = 9 = x2 + 7x
t 2 t 2 0
4 4 x2 + 7x + 9 = 0
When y = 13 = x2 + 7x
2 13 13
t = t = x2 + 7x + 13 = 0
4 2
= 49 52 < 0, no solution
7 13 Sum of roots = 7
x = t 3.5 =
2
Sum of real roots = 7
G7 If a is an integer and a7 = 8031810176, find the value of a.
1280000000 = 207 < 8031810176 < 307 = 21870000000
Clearly a is an even integer.
27 8, 47 4, 67 6, 87 2 (mod 10)
a = 26
x 2 xy y 2 3 x 3 y 1
G8 If x and y are real numbers satisfying and x > y > 0,
xy 1
find the value of x. Reference: 2010 FI1.3, 2013 FI4.4
Let t = x + y, (1) becomes (x + y)2 3 3(x + y) = 1
t2 3t 4 = 0
(t + 1)(t 4) = 0
t = 1 (rejected) or t = 4
x + y = 4 and xy = 1
x and y are the roots of u2 4u + 1 = 0
x =2 3
G9 Each side of a square is divided into four equal parts and straight lines
are joined as shown in figure 2. Find the number of rectangles which
are not squares. (Reference: 2013 FI1.1)
Number of rectangles including squares = C25 C25 = 100
Number of squares = 16 + 9 + 4 + 1 = 30
Total number of rectangles which are not squares = 100 30 = 70
(Figure 2)
5
G10 If 0 90 and cos sin = , find the value of cos + sin .
3
Reference: 1992 HI20, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4, 2014 HG3
cos sin 2 5
9
5
1 2 sin cos =
9
4
2 sin cos = 0
9
2 9 sin cos = 0
2(sin2 + cos2 ) 9 sin cos = 0
2 tan2 9 tan + 2 = 0
9 65 9 65
tan = or
4 4
9 65 9 65 4
4
3 13 5 3 13 5
,

5 65 5
Original equation LHS = cos sin = =

3 13 5
3
(reject)
9 65 9 65 4
4
3 13 5 3 13 5
,

5
Original equation LHS = cos sin =
3
9 65 4 13
cos + sin =
+

3 13 5 3 13 5
=
3
Method 2
cos > sin < 45 2 < 90
cos sin 2 5
9
5
1 2 sin cos =
9
4 65
sin 2 = cos 2 = 2 < 90
9 9
cos sin cos sin 5

cos sin
3
cos2 sin2 =
5
cos sin
3
65
= cos 2 =
5
cos sin
9 3
65 5 13
cos + sin = =
9 3 3
Method 3
cos sin 2 5
9
5
1 2 sin cos =
9
4
2 sin cos =
9
13
1 + 2 sin cos =
9
13
9
cos sin 2 13
9
13 13
cos + sin = or
3 3
0 90
cos + sin > 0
13
cos + sin =
3
Individual Events
I1 a 2 I2 a 136 I3 a 4 I4 a 8 I5 a 20
b 2 b 2620 b 24 b 9 b 2
c 2 c 100 c 50 c 4 c 257
d 1 d 50 d 500 d 54 d 7
Group Events
G6 p 2 G7 a 36 G8 m 2 G9 a 9 G10 a 50
m 8 b 18 d 3 b 3 b 10
r 1 c 2 n 96 x 11 c 15
s 2 d 6 s 95856 y 10 d 60
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Given that 72x = 36 and 7x = 6

a

7x = 6
7x = 6
a

2 = 61
a=2
I1.2 Find the value of b if log2{log2[log2(2b) + a] + a} = a.
log2{log2[log2(2b) + 2] + 2} = 2
log2[log2(2b) + 2] + 2 = 22 = 4
log2[log2(2b) + 2] = 2
log2(2b) + 2 = 22 = 4
log2(2b) = 2
2b = 22 = 4
b=2
I1.3 If c is the total number of positive roots of the equation
(x b) (x 2) (x + 1) = 3(x b) (x + 1), find the value of c.
(x 2) (x 2) (x + 1) 3(x 2) (x + 1) = 0
(x 2) (x + 1) [(x 2) 3] = 0
(x 2) (x + 1) (x 5) = 0
x = 2, 1 or 5
Number of positive roots = c = 2
I1.4 If 3 2 2 c d , find the value of d.
Reference: 1999 HG3, 2001 FG2.1, 2011 HI7, 2015 FI4.2, 2015 FG3.1
3 2 2 = 1 2 2 2
= 1 2 2 2
2 2
= 2 1 = 2 1
2
d=1
Individual Event 2
4 14
I2.1 If sin = , find a, the area of the quadrilateral.
5
Let the height be h.
4 h
tan = =
3 6
h=8 20
Area =
1
14 20 8 = 136
2
I2.2 If b = 1262 a2, find b.
b = 1262 a2
= (126 136)(126 + 136) = 2620
I2.3 Dividing $(3000 + b) in a ratio 5 : 6 : 8, the smallest part is $c. Find c.
Sum of money = $(3000 2620) = $380
5 5
c= 380 = 380 = 100
568 19

I2.4 In the figure, AP bisects BAC. Given that AB c, BP d,
PC 75 and AC 150, find d.
150
Let BAP = = CAP, APC = , BPC = 180 c
d 100 75 150
(1) and (2)

sin sin 180

sin sin
d P 75
C
(1) (2) d = 50
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is the remainder when 2614303940317 is divided by 13, find a.
2614303939000 = 1321100303000
2614303940317 = 1321100303000 + 1317 =1321100303000 + 1313 + 4
a=4
I3.2 Let P(x, b) be a point on the straight line x + y = 30 such that slope of OP a (O is the origin).
Determine b. (Reference: 1994 FI1.4)
x + b = 30
x = 30 b
b
mOP = =4
30 b
b = 120 4b
b = 24
I3.3 Two cyclists, initially (b + 26) km apart travelling towards each other with speeds 40 km/h
and 60 km/h respectively. A fly flies back and forth between their noses at 100 km/h. If the fly
flied c km before crushed between the cyclists, find c.
The velocity of one cyclist relative to the other cyclist is (40 + 60) km/h = 100 km/h.
Distance between the two cyclists = (24 + 26) km = 50 km
50 1
Time for the two cyclists meet = h= h
100 2
1
The distance the fly flied = 100 km = 50 km
2
c = 50
I3.4 In the figure, APK and BPH are straight lines. A
If d area of triangle HPK, find d.
BAP = KHP = 30 (given) 30 75
APB = KPH (vert. opp. s) 60 H
c
ABP ~ HKP (equiangular) 30
HK 50 P

60 75
B
HK = 40
1 K
d = 50 40 sin 30 = 500
2
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Given that the means of x and y, y and z, z and x are respectively 5, 9, 10. If a is the mean of x,
y, z, find the value of a.
x y yz zx
5 (1); 9 (2); 10 (3)
2 2 2
(1) + (2) + (3): x + y + z = 24
a=8
I4.2 The ratio of two numbers is 5 : a. If 12 is added to each of them, the ratio becomes 3 : 4. If b
is the difference of the original numbers and b > 0, find the value of b.
Let the two numbers be 5k, 8k.
5k 12 3

8k 12 4
20k + 48 = 24k + 36
4k = 12
k=3
5k = 15, 8k = 24
b = 24 15 = 9
I4.3 PQRS is a rectangle. If c is the radius of the smaller circle, 25

find the value of c. S I R
Let the centres of the two circles be C and D, with radius 9
9
and c respectively.
Suppose the circles touch each other at E. J 9 C 18
Further, assume that the circle with centre at C touches SR, 9-c 9 + c
E D
PS, PQ at I, J and G respectively. Let the circle with centre at F 16 - c c H
c c
D touches PQ, QR at K and H respectively. P G K Q
Join CI, CJ, CG, CED, DF, DK, DH.
CI SR, CJ PS, CG PQ, DK PQ, DH PR (tangent radius)
DK // HQ (corr. s eq.)
FDK = 90 (corr. s, DK // HQ)
DFGK is a rectangle (3 angles = 90)
DFG = 90 (s sum of polygon)
DFC = 90 (adj. son st. line)
C, E, D are collinear ( the two circles touch each other at E)
CI = CJ = CG = CE = 9 (radii of the circle with centre at C)
DH = DK = DE = c (radii of the circle with centre at D)
CD = c + 9
FG = DK = c (opp. sides of rectangle DFGK)
CF = 9 c
FD = GK (opp. sides of rectangle DFGK)
= PD PG KQ
= 25 9 c (opp. sides of rectangle)
= 16 c
CF + DF2 = CD2 (Pythagoras theorem)
2
(9 c)2 + (16 c)2 = (9 + c)2

81 18c + c2 + 256 32c + c2 = 81 + 18c + c2
c2 68c + 256 = 0
(c 4)(c 64) = 0
c = 4 or 64 (> 18, rejected)
I4.4 ABCD is a rectangle and CEF is an equilateral triangle, F
ABD = 6c, find the value of d.
Reference: HKCEE MC 1982 Q51 d
D C
ABD = 24 (given)
CAB = 24 (diagonals of rectangle)
AEB = 132 (s sum of ) E
CED = 132 (vert. opp. s)
6c
CEF = 60 ( of an equilateral triangle) A B
DEF = 132 60 = 72
ED = EC = EF (diagonals of rectangle, sides of equilateral )
DEF is isosceles (2 sides equal)
EFD = EDF (base s isos. )
d = (180 72) 2 = 54 (s sum of isos. )
Individual Event 5
I5.1 Two opposite sides of a rectangle are increased by 50% while the other two are decreased by
20%. If the area of the rectangle is increased by a%, find a.
Let the length and width be x and y respectively.
1.5x 0.8y = 1.2xy
a = 20
I5.2 Let f (x) = x3 20x2 + x a and g(x) = x4 + 3x2 + 2. If h(x) is the highest common factor of f (x)
and g(x), find b = h(1).
Reference: 1992 HI5
f (x) = x3 20x2 + x 20 = (x2 + 1)(x 20)
g(x) = x4 + 3x2 + 2 = (x2 + 1)(x2 + 2)
h(x) = H.C.F. = x2 + 1
b = h(1) = 2
I5.3 It is known that b16 1 has four distinct prime factors, determine the largest one, denoted by c
216 1 = (2 1)(2 + 1)(22 + 1)(24 + 1)(28 + 1) = 3517257
c = 257
I5.4 When c is represented in binary scale, there are d 0s. Find d.
257(x) = 100000001(ii)
d=7
Group Event 6
The following shows the graph of y = px2 + 5x + p. A (0, 2), y
1
B ,0 , C (2, 0), O (0, 0). N R
2
G6.1 Find the value of p.
x
1 O B M C
y = p x x 2 A
2
1
It passes through A(0, 2): 2 = p 2 .
2
p = 2
9
G6.2 If is the maximum value of y, find the value of m.
m
y = 2x2 + 5x 2
9 4 2 2 5 2
=
m 4 2
m=8
G6.3 Let R be a point on the curve such that OMRN is a square. If r is the x-coordinate of R, find
the value of r.
R(r, r) lies on y = 2x2 + 5x 2
r = 2r2 + 5r 2
2r2 4r + 2 = 0
r=1
G6.4 A straight line with slope 2 passes through the origin cutting the curve at two points E and
7
F. If is the y-coordinate of the midpoint of EF, find the value of s.
s
Sub. y = 2x into y = 2x2 + 5x 2
2x = 2x2 + 5x 2
2x2 7x + 2 = 0
Let E = (x1, y1), F = (x2, y2).
7
x1 + x2 =
2
7 y1 y 2 2 x1 2 x2 7
= = = (x1 + x2) =
s 2 2 2
s = 2
Group Event 7
OABC is a tetrahedron with OA, OB and OC being mutually
perpendicular. Given that OA OB OC 6x. C
G7.1 If the volume of OABC is ax3, find a.
ax3 = 6 x 6 x = 36x3
1 1 2
3 2 O B
a = 36
G7.2 If the area of ABC is b 3x 2 , find b. A
AB = BC = AC = 6 x 2 6 x 2 = 6x 2
ABC is equilateral
BAC = 60
Area of ABC = b 3x 2 =
1
2
2

6 x 2 sin 60 = 18 3 x 2
b = 18
G7.3 If the distance from O to ABC is c 3 x , find c.
By finding the volume of OABC in two different ways.
1
3

18 3 x 2 c 3 x 36 x 3
c=2
d
G7.4 If is the angle of depression from C to the midpoint of AB and sin = , find d.
3
1
3

18 3 x 2 c 3 x 36 x 3
Let the midpoint of AB be M.

OM AB OA OB
OC = 6x,
2 2
6 x 2 OM 6 x
2
OM = 3 2 x
CM = OM 2 OC 2
= 3 2 x 6 x
2 2
= 3 6x
d OC
sin = =
3 CM
6x 6
= =
3 6x 3
d=6
Group Event 8
Given that the equation x2 + (m + 1)x 2 = 0 has 2 integral roots ( + 1) and ( + 1) with < and
m 0. Let d = .
G8.1 Find the value of m.
( + 1)( + 1) = 2
+ 1 = 1, + 1 = 2 or + 1 = 2, + 1 = 1
(, ) = (2,1), (3,0)
When (, ) = (3, 0), sum of roots = ( + 1) + ( + 1) = (m + 1) m = 0 (rejected)
When (, ) = (2, 1), sum of roots = ( + 1) + ( + 1) = (m + 1) m = 2
G8.2 Find the value of d.
d = = 1 (2) = 3
Let n be the total number of integers between 1 and 2000 such that each of them gives a remainder
of 1 when it is divided by 3 or 7.
G8.3 Find the value of n.
These numbers give a remainder of 1 when it is divided by 21.
They are 1, 21 + 1, 212 + 1, , 2195 + 1 (= 1996)
n = 96
G8.4 If s is the sum of all these n integers, find the value of s.
s = 1 + 22 + 43 + + 1996 =
1
1 1996 96 = 95856
2
Group Event 9
BC, CA, AB are divided respectively by the points X, Y, Z
in the ratio 1 : 2. Let
area of AZY : area of ABC 2 : a and
area of AZY : area of XYZ 2 : b.
G9.1 Find the value of a.
2
area of AZY = area of ACZ (same height)
3
2 1
= area of ABC (same height)
3 3
a=9
G9.2 Find the value of b.
2 2
Similarly, area of BZX = area of ABC; area of CXY = area of ABC
9 9
area of XYZ = area of ABC area of AZY area of BZX area of CXY
1
= area of ABC
3
2 1
2 : b = area of AZY : area of XYZ = :
9 3
b=3
x
A die is thrown 2 times. Let be the probability that the sum of numbers obtained is 7 or 8 and
36
y
be the probability that the difference of numbers obtained is 1.
36
G9.3 Find the value of x.
Favourable outcomes are (1, 6), (2, 5), (3, 4), (4, 3), (5, 2), (6,1), (2,6), (3,5), (4,4), (5,3), (6,2)
x
P(7 or 8) =
36
x = 11
G9.4 Find the value of y.
Favourable outcomes are (1, 2), (2, 3), (3, 4), (4, 5), (5, 6), (6,5), (5, 4), (4, 3), (3, 2), (2, 1).
y
P(difference is 1) =
36
y = 10
Group Event 10
ABCD is a square of side length 20 5 x . P, Q are midpoints of DC D P
C
and BC respectively.
G10.1 If AP ax, find a.
AP = AD 2 DP 2 Q

2
= 20 5 x 10 5 x = 50x
2

a = 50 A B
G10.2 If PQ = b 10 x , find b.
PQ = CP 2 CQ 2 = 10 10 x
b = 10
G10.3 If the distance from A to PQ is c 10 x , find c.
c 10 x = AC distance from C to PQ
1
= 20 5 x 2 10 5 x
2
= 15 10 x
c = 15
d
G10.4 If sin = , find d.
100
1
2
1

Area of APQ = AP AQ sin = PQ c 10 x
2

50 x sin 10 10 x 15 10 x
1 2 1
2 2
d 3
sin = =
100 5
d = 60
1 100 2 3 3 4 4 60 5 20
6 C 7 10 8 4 9 5 10 16
91-92
11 12 12 35 13 1620 14 32 15 128
Individual
9 4
16 3 17 10 18 19 8 20
10 3
91-92 1 102 2 1 3 52 4 191 5 5

Group 6 10 7 42 8 3 9 1 10 7
Individual Events
If log10 x 3log10 x 4 0 and x > 1, find x.

4 2
I1
[(log10 x)2 4][(log10 x)2 + 1] = 0

log10 x = 2 or 2
1
x = 100 or (rejected)
100
28 x 15 y 19 xy
I2 If and xy 0 , find x.
18 x 21y 2 xy
28 15
y x 19 (1)
18 21
2 (2)
y x
286
7(1) + 5(2): 143
y
y=2
15
Put y = 2 into (1): 14 + = 19
x
x=3
I3 An integer a lying between 0 and 9 inclusive is randomly selected. It is known that the
p
probability that the equation x2 ax + 3 = 0 has no real root is , find p.
10
a2 12 < 0
0 a 2 3 3.46
a = 0, 1, 2 or 3
p=4
cos x 5 cos x 2 . Determine the largest possible
1 1
I4 x is an acute angle satisfying
2 2
value of x.
1 1 1
cos x cos x
2 2 2
1
cos x
2
x 60
The largest value of x is 60.
I5 Let f (x) be the highest common factor of x4 + 64 and x3 + 6x2 + 16x + 16, find f (2).
x4 + 64 = x4 + 16x2 + 64 16x2 = (x2 + 8)2 (4x)2 = (x2 + 4x + 8)(x2 4x + 8)
g(x) = x3 + 6x2 + 16x + 16
g(2) = 8 + 24 32 + 16 = 0
x + 2 is a factor of g(x).
By division, g(x) = (x + 2)(x2 + 4x + 8)
H.C.F. = f (x) = x2 + 4x + 8
f (2) = 22 + 4(2) + 8 = 20
I6 A fruit merchant divides a large lot of oranges into four classes: A, B, C, D. The number of
oranges in class A and class B doubles that in class C while the number of oranges in class B
and class D doubles that in class A. If 7 oranges from class B are upgraded to class A, class A
will then contain twice as many oranges as class B. It is known that one of the four classes
contains 54 oranges. Determine which one class it belongs to.
A + B = 2C (1)
B + D = 2A (2)
A + 7 = 2(B 7)
A = 2B 21 (3)
Sub. (3) into (1) and (2)
2B 21 + B = 2C
3B 21 = 2C (4)
B + D = 2(2B 21)
3B 42 = D (5)
(4) (5) 21 = 2C D (6)
If A = 54, from (3), B = 37.5 (reject)
If B = 54, from (4), C = 70.5 (reject)
If D = 54, from (6), C = 37.5 (reject)
If C = 54, from (4), B = 43; from (5), D = 87; from (3), A = 65
Answer C
n n
I7 Given that n is a positive integer, find ALL the real roots of x 2 10 2 0 .
x 10 0
2 n 1
2
2 n 1
2
x 10 x 10 0
2 n 1 2 n 1 2 n 1 2 n 1
x 10 x 10 x
2 n 1 2 n 1 2n 2 2n 2 2

10 2 x 10 x 10 0
x = 10
I8 If n is an integer randomly selected from 1 to 100, and the probability that the unit digit of
3
5678n is greater than 3 is , find x.
x
8 = 8, 8 = 64, 8 = 512, 8 = 4096, 85 = 32768
1 2 3 4

P(unit digit > 3) = 1 P(unit digit 3)
= 1 P(n = 3, 7, 11, , 99)
3
=
4
x=4
I9 In ABC, AB 8 cm, BC 6 cm and ABC 90. If the bisector of ACB cuts AB at R and
CR 3 a cm, find a.
Let BR = x cm, then AR = (8 x) cm.
Let D be the foot of perpendicular drawn from R onto AC C
CR = CR (common sides)
BCR = DCR = (given)

CBR = CDR = 90 (by construction)
BCR DCR (A.A.S.) 6 cm D
DR = x cm (corr. sides, s) 3 a
CD = BC = 6 cm (corr. sides, s)
AC = 10 cm (Pythagoras theorem) B A
R
AD = (10 6) cm = 4 cm
In ADR, x2 + 42 = (8 x)2 (Pythagoras theorem) 8 cm
16 = 64 16x
x=3
CR = 32 6 2 cm = 45 cm = 3 5 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
a=5
I10 In figure 1, arc BD is 4 times the arc AC, DEB 80 and D
ADC x, find x.
BAD 4x (s arcs) x
x + 4x = 80 (ext. of ADE)
x = 16 E 80
A B
(Figure 1) ()
C
I11 In figure 2, ABCD is a square. EDF is a straight line. M is the E
C
mid-point of AB. If the distances of A, M and C from the line EF are G
5 cm, 11 cm and x cm respectively, find x.
x
2a D
Let K, L and G be the feet of perpendiculars drawn from A, M, C
onto EF respectively. AK = 5 cm, ML= 11 cm, CG = x cm
Let CD = 2a cm, AM = a cm, BM = a cm.
From A, draw AJ ML, then AKLJ is a rectangle. 11 J
B
JL = 5 cm (opp. sides of rectangle) a M
L
a K
MJ = (11 5) cm = 6 cm A 5
(Figure 2) ()
It is easy to show that AMJ ~ DCG F
CG : MJ = CD : AM (ratio of sides, ~s)

x : 6 = 2a : a
x = 12
I12 In the figure, AB = AC = 2BC and BC = 20 cm. If BF is perpendicular to AC A
and AF = x cm, find x.

Let ABC = = ACB (base s isosceles )
AB = AC = 40
1
BC
2 10 1
cos =
AC 40 4
1
CF = BC cos 20 5 F
4
B C
AF = AC CF = 40 5 = 35 cm 20 cm
x = 35
I13 Figure 4 shows a figure obtained by producing the sides of a

13-sided polygon. If the sum of the marked angles is n, find n.
Consider the 13 small triangles outside.
Let the marked angles be x1, x2, , x13.
angle sum of 13 triangles = 13180 = 2340
x1 + x2 + + x13 + 2(sum of ext. of polygon) = 2340
x1 + x2 + + x13 = 2340 720 = 1620
n = 1620
I14 In figure 5, PQ is a diagonal of the cube. If PQ 4 cm and the total surface area
of the cube is x cm2, find x. (Reference: 1995 FI5.2, 2003 HI7)
Let the length of one side = a cm
a2 + a2 + a2 = 42 Pythagoras theorem
16 (Figure 5)
a2 =
3
x = 6a2 = 32
I15 If (3x 1)7 a1x 7 a2 x 6 a3 x 5 a8 , find the value of a1 a2 a3 a8 .
Put x = 1, 27 = a1 a2 a3 a8
a1 a2 a3 a8 = 128
I16 A(1, 1), B(a, 0) and C(1, a) are the vertices of the triangle ABC. Find the value of a if the area
of ABC is 2 square units and a > 0.
1 1
1 a 0
=2
2 1 a
1 1
|a2 + 1 a a| = 4
a2 2a + 1 = 4 or a2 2a + 1 = 4
a2 2a 3 = 0 or a2 2a + 5 = 0
(a 3)(a + 1) = 0 or no solution
a = 3 ( a > 0)
I17 If N 212 58 , find the number of digits of N. (Reference: 1982 FG10.1, 2012 HI4)
N = 24 108 = 16108
Number of digits = 10
ac
I18 If a : b 3 : 4 and a : c 2 : 5, find the value of .
a b2
2
a : b : c = 6 : 8 : 15
a = 6k, b = 8k, c = 15k
ac 6k 15k 90 9
= = =
a b
2 2
6k 8k 100 10
2 2
I19 A rectangular piece of paper of width 6 cm is folded such that one corner A 6 cm
D
touches the opposite side as shown in figure 6. If 30 and DE x cm,
find x. Reference American High School Mathematics Examination 1972 Q30
DE = DE = x cm common sides F
x cm
DFE = DCE = 90 by fold paper
EDF = EDC = by fold paper
DEF DEC (A.A.S.) B E C
x
CE = EF = x sin cm = x sin 30 cm = cm Method 2
2 Let BE = a cm
CED = FED = 60 (corr. s, s) DEF DEC (A.A.S.)
BEF = 180 260 = 60 (adj. s on st. line) CED = FED = 60 (corr. s, s)
x 1 x BEF = 60 (adj. s on st. line)
BE = EF cos 60 = = cm
2 2 4 EF = a cos 60 = 2a = CE = 6 a
BE + EC = BC = AD (opp. sides of rectangle) a=2
x x x sin 30 = 6 a
+ =6
4 2 x=8
x=8
1
I20 If sin x cos x and 0 x , find tan x.
5
Reference: 1993 HG10, 1995 HI5, 2007 HI7, 2007 FI1.4, 2014 HG3
sin x cos x 2 1
25
1
1 + 2 sin x cos x =
25
24
+ 2 sin x cos x = 0
25
12 + 25 sin x cos x = 0
12(sin2 x + cos2 x) + 25 sin x cos x = 0
(3 sin x + 4 cos x)(4 sin x + 3 cos x) = 0
4 3
tan x = or
3 4
4 4 3 1
When tan x = , sin x = , cos x = ; original equation LHS = sin x + cos x =
3 5 5 5
3 3 4 1
When tan x = , sin x = , cos x = ; original equation LHS = sin x + cos x = (reject)
4 5 5 5
4
tan x =
3
Group Events
G1 A, B, C are three men in a team. The age of A is greater than the sum of the ages of B and C
by 16. The square of the age of A is greater than the square of the sum of the ages of B and C
by 1632. Find the sum of the ages of A, B and C.
A = B + C + 16 (1)
A2 = (B + C)2 + 1632 (2)
From (1), sub. B + C = A 16 into (2):
A2 = A2 32A + 256 + 1632
A = 59
B + C = 59 16 = 43
A + B + C = 59 + 43 = 102
abc abc abc
G2 a, b, c are non-zero real numbers such that .
c b a
(a b)(b c)(c a )
If x and x < 0, find the value of x. (Reference: 1999 FI2.1)
abc
ab ac bc
1 1 1
c b a
ab ac bc
=k
c b a
a + b = ck (1)
a + c = bk (2)
b + c = ak (3)
(1) + (2) + (3): 2(a + b + c) = (a + b + c)k
a + b + c = 0 or k = 2
ab ac bc
x= = k3 < 0 (given)
c b a
k = 2 is rejected
a+b+c=0
a + b = c
ab
= 1
c
k = 1
x = (1)3 = 1
G3 An interior angle of an n-sided convex polygon is x. The sum of the other interior angles is
2468. Find x.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1990 FG10.3-4, 2002 FI3.4, 2013HI6
2468 = 18013 + 128
x = 180(n 2) 18013 + 128
x = 180(n 15) + 128
x < 180
x = 128
G4 When a positive integer N is divided by 4, 7, 9, the remainders are 3, 2, 2 respectively. Find

the least value of N.
Reference: 1990 HG2
N = 4a + 3 (1)
N = 7b + 2 (2)
N = 9c + 2 (3), where a, b, c are integers
7b + 2 = 9c = 2
b = 9k, c = 7k for some integer k
(1) = (2): 4a + 3 = 7b + 2
7b 4a = 1
b = 3, a = 5 is a particular solution
The general solution is b = 3 + 4t, a = 5 + 7t for all real numbers t
3 + 4t = 9k
k = 3, t = 6 is the smallest set of integral solution
N = 4(5 + 76) + 3 = 191
G5 Find the remainder when 101991 is divided by 7. Method 2
1001 = 7143 10 7 3; 102 7 2
103 = 7143 1 103 7 6; 104 7 4
101991 = (103)663102 105 7 5; 106 7 1
= (7143 1)663100 The remainders pattern repeats for every
= (7m 1)(98 + 2) multiples of 6.
2 5 mod 7 101991 = (106)331105
The remainder is 5.
G6 In the figure, BD = DC, AP = AQ. A

If AB = 13 cm, AC = 7 cm and AP = x cm, find x.
From D, draw a parallel line DE // QA
7 cm
D is the mid-point of BC. 13 cm
E
BE = EA (intercept theorem) C
= 13 2 = 6.5 cm P
DE = 7 2 = 3.5 cm (mid-point theorem on ABC) D Q
APQ = AQP (base s. isos. , AP = AQ)
= EDP (corr. s, AQ // ED) B
PE = DE (side opp. equal s)
= 3.5 cm
AP = AE + EP = 6.5 + 35 = 10 cm
x = 10
1 1 1
G7 In the figure, BL = BC, CM = CA and AN = AB. If the areas
3 3 3
of PQR and ABC are 6 cm2 and x cm2 respectively, find x.
Reference American High School Mathematics Examination 1952 Q49
Denote [ABC] = area of triangle ABC.
Draw BEQF // BM // GC, GHRD // CN // FA, FJPG // AL // DB
as shown. AC intersects GF at J, BC intersects DG at H, AB
intersects DF at E.
Then AQPF, QRGP are congruent parallelograms. A
BDQR, RQFP are congruent parallelograms. CGRP, PRDQ are

F
congruent parallelograms. N
Q
AQF, PFQ, QRP, RQD, DBR, GPR, PGC are congruent s.
E J
D
Consider triangles AFJ and CPJ: R P

M
AF = QP (opp. sides of //-gram)

= RG (opp. sides of //-gram) B L H C
= PC (opp. sides of //-gram) G
AF // PC (by construction)
AFCP is a parallelogram (Two sides are eq. and //)
AJ = JC diagonal of a //-gram
AJF = CJP vert. opp. s
AFJ = CPJ alt. s AF // PC
AFJ CPJ (AAS)
Areas [CPJ] = [AFJ]
In a similar manner, [BRH] = [CGH], [AQE] = [BDE]
[ABC] = [PQR] + [AQC] + [CPQ] + [BRA]
= [PQR] + [AQPF] + [CPRG] + [BRQD]
= 7 [PQR] ( they are congruent triangles, so areas equal)
= 7 6 = 42
Method 2
By considering the areas of ACL and ABL
1 AC AL sin CAL
2
2
1 AB AL sin BAL

2
1
AC sin CAL
= 2 ...... (1)
AB sin BAL
By considering the areas of AMR and ABR
1
AM AR sin CAL MR
2
1 AB AR sin BAL

2
BR
AM sin CAL MR

AB sin BAL BR
2 AC sin CAL
MR
3

AB sin BAL BR
2 MR MR 4
By (1), 2 ......... (2)
3 BR BR 3
By considering the areas of ACN and BCN
1
AC CN sin ACN 1 AC sin ACN 1
2
1 BC CN sin BCN
...... (3)
2
2 BC sin BCN 2
By considering the areas of MCP and BCP

1 CM CP sin ACN
MP
2
1 BC CP sin BCN

2
BP
CM sin ACN MP

BC sin BCN BP
1 AC sin ACN
MP
3

BC sin BCN BP
1 1 MP
By (3),
3 2 BP
MP 1
......... (4)
BP 6
By (2) and (4), MP : PR : RB = 1 : 3 : 3
Let s stands for the area, x = area of ABC.
x
sABL = sBCM = sACN =
3
1 x x 1
and sANQ = sBLR = sCMP = (NQ = QC = 1 : 6 NQ = CN)
7 3 21 7
The total area of ABC: x = sABL + sBCM + sACN + sPQR 3 sANQ
x x x x
x = + + + 6 3
3 3 3 21
1
0=6 x
7
x = 42
Method 3 (Vector method)
Let AC = c , AB = b
Suppose BR : RM = r : s

r 23 c sb c 2b
By ratio formula, AR ; AL
rs 3
s 2r
rs 3r s
AR // AL 2
1
(their coefficients are in proportional)
3 3
3s = 4r
r:s=3:4
Suppose BP : PM = m : n, let CB = a

na m 13 c a 2 c
By ratio formula, CP ; CN
mn 3
n 3 m n
m
CP // CN m1 n (their coefficients are in proportional)
3
2
3
6n = m
m:n=6:1
r : s = 3 : 4 and m : n = 6 : 1
MP : PR : RB = 1 : 3 : 3
The remaining steps are similar, so is omitted.
G8 ABC is an equilateral triangle of side 12 cm, and P is any point A

inside the triangle (as shown in figure 3). If the sum of the
perpendicular distances from P to the three sides AB, BC and CA is
x cm, find x.
Reference 2005 HG9, 2015 HG2 P
Let the distance from P to AB, BC, CA be h1, h2, h3 respectively.
1
2
12h1
1
2
12h2
1
2
12h3 =area of ABC =
1
2

2
12 sin 60 3 3 B C
Figure 3
x = h1 + h2 + h3 = 3
G9 A sphere of radius r cm can just be covered on a table by a V
8r 2
conical vessel of volume cm3 (as shown in figure 4).
3
Determine the largest possible value of r.
Let the vertex of the cone be V, Q is the centre of the sphere, O h cm
is the centre of the base, AOB is the diameter of the base. VQO Q
r cm
are collinear and VQO AOB. r cm

Let OBQ = , the height be h cm and the base radius be R cm
R = r cot A O R cm B
r tan 2
h = R tan 2 =
tan
2 r tan 2 8r 2
r cot
1

3 tan 3
8 tan 8 tan
3 3
r= = = 4 tan2 (1 tan2 )
tan 2 2 tan
1 tan 2
2
1 4 1 2
r = 1 4 tan tan = 1 4 tan
2
4 2
r1
1
r is the maximum when tan2 =
2
In this case < 45, which is possible.
G10 a, b, c, d are four numbers. The arithmetic means of (i) a, b, c; (ii) b, c, d; (iii) a, b, d are
respectively 13, 15 and 17. If the median of a, b, c and d is c + 9, find the largest possible
value of c.
a + b + c = 313 = 39 (1)
b + c + d = 315 = 45 (2)
a + b + d = 317 = 51 (3)
(2) (1): d a = 6 (4) d > a
(3) (1): d c = 12 (5) d > c
a=d6
and c = d 12
The three numbers are d 12, d 6 and d in ascending order.
If b d 12, then the median is c + 9
2(d 12 + 9) = d 12 + d 6
6 = 18 reject
If d 12 < b d 6, then the median is c + 9
2(d 3) = b + d 6 b = d reject
If d 6 < b < d, then the median is c + 9
2(d 3) = b + d 6
b = d reject
If d b, then the median = c + 9
2(d 3) = d 6 + d accept
From (1), b = 39 a c
= 39 (d 6) (d 12)
= 45 d d + 12
= 57 2d
bd
57 2d d
19 d
c = d 12 19 12 = 7
The largest possible value of c is 7.
Individual Events
SI A 20 I1 n 10 I2 a 48 I3 a 2 I4 A 40 I5 a 45
B 4 a 25 b 144 b 3 B 6 b 15
C 5 z 205 c 4 c 12 C 198 c 12
5
D S 1 d 572 d 140 D 7 d 2
2
Group Events
SG 2550 G6 a 1 G7 a 8 G8 A 2 G9 x 6 G10 c 3
2452 b 52 b 10 b 171 y 6 a 2
P 2501 c 13 area 116 c 3 T10 200 b 5
Q 10001 d 3 tan 2 d 27 n 19 d 5
SI.1 Given A = (bm)n + bm+n. Find the value of A when b 4, m n 1.
A = (41)1 + 41+1 = 4 + 16 = 20
SI.2 If 2A = B10 and B > 0, find B.
220 = 410
B=4
20 B 45
SI.3 Solve for C in the following equation: C.
C
20 4 45
C
C
125 = C3
C=5
SI.4 Find D in the figure.
5
D = C sin 30 = C
2
D
30
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If the sum of the interior angles of an n-sided polygon is 1440, find n.
180(n 2) = 1440
n = 10
I1.2 If x2 nx + a = 0 has 2 equal roots, find a.
(10)2 4a = 0
a = 25
I1.3 In the figure, if z = p + q, find z. A
ACB = 180 p (opp. s cyclic quad.)
a
ABC = 180 q (opp. s cyclic quad.)
180 p + 180 q + a = 180 (s sum of ) P p
z = p + q = 180 + a = 205 q Q
B C
I1.4 If S = 1 + 2 3 4 + 5 + 6 7 8 + + z, find S.
Reference: 1985 FG7.4, 1988 FG6.4, 1990 FG10.1, 1991 FSI.1
S = 1 + (2 3 4 + 5) + (6 7 8 + 9) + + (202 203 204 + 205) = 1
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If ar = 24 and ar4 = 3, find a.
ar 4 3 1
r3 = = =
ar 24 8
1
r=
2
ar = 24
1
a = 24
2
a = 48
2
a a
I2.2 If x x 2 x b , find b.
4 2
(x + 12)2 = x2 + 24x + 144

b = 144
b
I2.3 If c = log2 , find c.
9
144
c = log2 = log2 16 = 4
9
I2.4 If d = 12c 1422, find d.
d = 124 1422
= 1442 1422
= (144 + 142)(144 142)
= 2(286) = 572
Individual Event 3
sin 15 1
I3.1 If a = tan 2 15 , find a.
cos 75 sin 75
2
sin 15
a= sec 2 15 tan 2 15
sin 15
=1+1=2
I3.2 If the lines ax + 2y + 1 = 0 and 3x + by + 5 = 0 are perpendicular to each other, find b.
a 3
1
2 b
b = 3
c
I3.3 The three points (2, b), (4, b) and (5, ) are collinear. Find c.
2
c
The three points are (2, 3), (4, 3) and (5, ), so their slopes are equal.
2
3 3 2c 3

42 54
c
3=3
2
c = 12
1 1 1 1 1
I3.4 If : : 3 : 4 : 5 and : 9c : d, find d.
x y z x y yz
1 1 1
x:y:z= : :
3 4 5
20 15 12
= : :
60 60 60
= 20 : 15 : 12
x = 20k, y = 15k, z = 12k
1 1 1 1
: :
x y y z 20k 15k 15k 12k
= 27 : 35
= 108: 140 = 9c : d
d = 140
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In the figure, the area of PQRS is 80 cm2.
If the area of QRT is A cm2, find A.
QRT has the same base and same height as the parallelogram PQRS.
1
A = 80 = 40
2
8A
I4.2 If B = log 2 , find B.
5
8 40
B = log 2
5
= log2 64
= log2 26 = 6
1 1
I4.3 Given x = B. If C = x 3 3 , find C.
x x
1
x =6
x
1 1
x2 2
= ( x )2 2
x x
= 62 2 = 34
1
C = x3
x3
1 1
= x x 2 2 1
x x
= 6(34 1) = 198
I4.4 Let (p, q) qD + p. If (C, 2) 212, find D.
2D + C = 212
2D = 212 198 = 14
D=7
Individual Event 5
I5.1 Let p, q be the roots of the quadratic equation x2 3x 2 = 0 and a = p3 + q3. Find a.
p + q = 3, pq = 2
a = (p + q)(p2 pq + q2)
= 3[(p + q)2 3pq]
= 3[32 3(2)] = 45
I5.2 If AH a, CK 36, BK 12 and BH b, find b. A
ABH ~ CBK (equiangular)

b 45
(ratio of sides, ~s) K
12 36 P
b = 15
B C
H
I5.3 Find c. L

b 20
152 + 202 = 252 c
ML LN (converse, Pythagoras theorem)
M N
1 1 25
Area of MNL = 1520 = 25c
2 2
c = 12
I5.4 Let 2 x 23 2 x 1 c and d 2 x 23 2 x 1 . Find d.
Reference: 2014 HG1
cd 2 x 23 2 x 1 2 x 23 2 x 1
12d = (2x + 23) (2x 1) = 24
d=2
Sample Group Event Reference HKCEE Mathematics 1990 Paper 1 Q14

Consider the following groups of numbers:
(2)
(4, 6)
(8, 10, 12)
(14, 16, 18, 20)
(22, 24, 26, 28, 30)

SG.1 Find the last number of the 50th group.
2 = 21
6 = 2(1 + 2)
12 = 2(1 + 2 + 3)
20 = 2(1 + 2 + 3 + 4)
30 = 2(1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5)
The last number of the 50th group
= 2(1 + 2 + + 50)
= 2 50 1 50 = 2550
1
2
SG.2 Find the first number of the 50th group.
There are 50 numbers in the 50th group.
SG.3 Find P if the sum of the numbers in the 50th group is 50P.
2452 + 2454 + + 2550 = 50P
50 2452 2550 50 P
1
2
P = 2501
SG.4 Find Q if the sum of the numbers in the 100th group is 100Q.
The last number in the 100th group = 2(1 + 2 + + 100) = 2 100 1 100 = 10100
1
2
9902 + 9904 + + 10100 = 100P
100 9902 10100 100 P

1
2
P = 10001
Group Event 6
As shown in the figure, ABC and XYZ are equilateral triangles and X
are ends of a right prism. P is the mid-point of BY and BP 3 cm,
XY 4 cm. Y Z
CP
G6.1 If a = , find a.
PX
P A
CP = 3 4 cm = 5 cm = PX (Pythagoras theorem)
2 2
B C
a=1
G6.2 If CX = b cm, find b.
CX = 6 2 4 2 cm = 52 cm (Pythagoras theorem)
b = 52
c
G6.3 If cosPCX = , find c.
5
52 2 13
cosPCX = =
5 5
c = 13
2 d
G6.4 If sinPCX = , find d.
5
12
sin2PCX = 1 cos2PCX =
25
2 3
sinPCX =
5
d=3
Group Event 7
Given that OABC is a parallelogram. B(4, b)
G7.1 Find a. A(a, 9)
a 0 = 4 12
a = 8
G7.2 Find b.
b1=90 C(12, 1)

b = 10
G7.3 Find the area of OABC. O(0, 0)
0 0
1 12 1
Area = 2 = 116
2 4 10
0 0
G7.4 Find tan .
OC = 145
5
OB = 116 2
BC = 12 42 1 102 = 145
1
2 2 2
145 116 145 1
cos =

2 145 116
=

5
tan = 2
Method 2
1 0 1
mOC =
12 0 12
10 0 5
mOB =
40 2
5
1
tan = 2 5 121 = 2
1 2 12
Group Event 8
G8.1 The area of an equilateral triangle of side A cm is 3 cm2. Find A.
1 2
A sin 60 3
2
A=2
A
G8.2 If 19 243 5 b , find b.
b = 19 35 5 = 171
G8.3 The roots of the equation x3 173x2 + 339x + 513 = 0 are 1, b and c. Find c.
1 + 171 + c = sum of roots = 173
c=3
G8.4 The base of a triangular pyramid is an equilateral triangle of side 2c cm.
If the height of the pyramid is 27 cm, and its volume is d cm3, find d.
d = 6 2 sin 60 27 = 27
1 1
3 2
Group Event 9
If the area of a regular hexagon ABCDEF is 54 3 cm2 and AB x cm, AC y 3 cm,
G9.1 find x.
The hexagon can be cut into 6 identical equilateral triangles
6 x 2 sin 60 54 3
1
2
x=6
G9.2 find y.
ABC = 120
AC2 = (x2 + x2 2x2 cos 120) cm2
1
= [62 + 62 2(6)2 ] cm2
2
= 362 cm2
y 3 =6 3
y=6
G9.3 - G9.4 (Reference: 1991 FG8.1-2)
Consider the following number pattern:
T1 = 2 T2 = 8 T3 = 18 T4 = 32
G9.3 Find T10.
8 2 = 6, 18 8 = 10, 32 18 = 14
T1 = 2, T2 = 2 + 6, T3 = 2 + 6 + 10, T4 = 2 + 6 + 10 +14
22 10 1 4 = 200
10
T10 =
2
G9.4 If Tn = 722, find n.
22 n 1 4 722
n
2
n2 = 361
n = 19
Group Event 10
The following shows the graph of y = ax2 + bx + c. y
G10.1 Find c.
x = 0, y = c = 3 3
G10.2 Find a.
1 x
y = a(x + )(x 3) 1 O 3
2
2
Sub. x = 0, y = 3
3
a= 3
2
a = 2
G10.3 Find b.
1 b
3 = sum of roots =
2 2
b=5
2
G10.4 If y = x + d is tangent to y = ax + bx + c, find d.
Sub. y = x + d into y = ax2 + bx + c
2x2 + 5x + 3 = x + d
2x2 4x + d 3 = 0
= (4)2 4(2)(d 3) = 0
4 2d + 6 = 0
d=5
1 4 2 2 3 488 4 17 5 4
90-91 6 6 7 72.8 8 243 9 8 10 50
Individual 11 4 12 6 13 17 14 13 15 73
16 338350 17 192 18 7 19 10 20 45
90-91 1 9 2 98 3 10 4 32767 5 174

Group 6 6 7 1601 8 41 9 25 10 110
Individual Events
I1 Find the value of log3 14 log3 12 + log3 486 log3 7.
log3 14 log3 12 + log3 486 log3 7
14 486
= log 3
12 7
= log 3 81 = 4
I2 A scientist found that the population of a bacteria culture doubled every hour. At 4:00 pm, he
found that the number of bacteria was 3.2108. If the number of bacteria in that culture at
noon on the same day was N107, find N.
N10724 = 3.2108
16N = 32
N=2
1 1
I3 If x 8 , find the value of x3 3 .
x x
2
1
x 64
x
1
x 2 2 62
x
1 1 1
x3 3 = x x 2 1 2
x x x
= 8(62 1) = 488
I4 If the equations 2x + 3y + a = 0 and bx 2y + 1 = 0 represent the same line, find the value of
6(a + b).
2 3 a

b 2 1
3 4
a = , b =
2 3
6(a + b) = 9 8 = 17
I5 A boy walks from home to school at a speed of 2 metres per second and runs back at x metres
2
per second. His average speed for the whole journey is 2 metres per second. Find x.
3
Let the distance between his home and the school be d m.
2d 2
2
d d 3

2 x
4x 8

x2 3
3x = 2x + 4
x=4
ax 2by
I6 The straight line = 2a+ b passes through a fixed point P. Find the x-coordinate of P.
3 5
x 2y
a 2 b 1
3 5
Put b = 0, a = 1, x = 6
I7 If the diameter of a sphere is increased by 20%, its volume will be increased by x %. Find x.
Let the radius be r.
When the diameter is increased by 20%, the radius is also increased by 20%
Percentage increase in volume
1.2r r 3
4 3 4
=3 3 100% = 72.8%
4 3
r
3
x = 72. 8
I8 If log7[log5(log3 x)] = 0, find x.
log5(log3 x) = 1
log3 x = 5
x = 35 = 243
7 8x A B
I9 If for all real numbers x where x 1 and x 2, find A + B.
(1 x)(2 x) 1 x 2 x
7 8x A(2 x) + B(1 x)
2A + B = 7 (1)
A + B = 8 (2)
(1) (2): A = 1
Put A = 1 into (2): B = 9
A+B=8
I10 The marked price of an article is p% above its cost price. At a sale, the shopkeeper sells the
article at 20% off the marked price. If he makes a profit of 20%, find p.
Let the cost be $x.
(1 + p%)x(1 20%) = (1 + 20%)x
1 + 0.01p = 1.5
p = 50
I11 If a < 0 and 22a+4 652a + 4 = 0, find a.
16(2a)2 65(2a) + 4 = 0
(162a 1)(2a 4) = 0
1
2a = or 4
16
a < 0 a = 4
I12 If one root of the equation (x2 11x 10) + k(x + 2) = 0 is zero, find the other root.
Put x = 0, 10 + 2k = 0
k=5
x2 6x = 0
The other root is 6.
I13 [x] denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to x . For example, [6] 6 , [8.9] 8, etc.

If 4 1 4 2 4 n = n + 2, find n. (Reference 1989 HI6)
1= 1, 2 = 1, , 15 = 1; 16 = 2, , 80 = 2; 81= 3
4 4 4 4 4 4
If n 15, 1 2 n = n
4 4 4
If 16 n 80, 1 2 n = 15 + 2(n 15) = 2n 15

4 4 4
2n 15 = n + 2
n = 17
I14 a, b are two different real numbers such that a2 = 6a + 8 and b2 = 6b + 8. Find the value of
2 2
4 4
.
a b
Reference: 1989 HG1
a + b = 6; ab = 8
2 2
4 4 1 1
= 16 2 2
a b a b
=
16 a b 2ab
2

ab 2
16 6 2 2 8
= = 13

82
I15 312 1 is divisible by an integer which is greater than 70 and smaller than 80. Find the integer.
312 1 = (36 + 1)(36 1) = (32 + 1)(34 32 + 1)(32 1)(34 + 32 + 1)
= 1073891
The integer is 73.
I16 It is known that

23 13 3 12 3 1 1
33 23 3 22 3 2 1
43 33 3 32 3 3 1

1013 1003 3 1002 3 100 1
Find the value of 12 22 32 1002 .
Add up these 100 equations: 1013 1 = 3(12 + 22 + 1002) +
3
1 100 100 + 100
2
1030301 1 = 3(12 + 22 + 1002) + 15150 + 100
12 + 22 + 1002 = 338350
I17 In figure 1, PQ PR 8 cm and QPR 120 . A, D are P

the mid-points of PQ, PR respectively. If ABCD is a
rectangle of area x cm2 , find x. A D
Fold PAD along AD, QAB along AB, RCD along DC.
1 Q R
It is easy to show the area of ABCD = area of PQR B C
2
(Figure 1)
1 1
= 88sin 120 = 8 3 = 192 x = 192
2 2
I18 In figure 2, XA 10 cm, AB 2 cm, XD 8 cm and

B
DC x cm. Find the value of x. A
XAD = XCB (ext. , cyclic quad.)
X
AXD = CXB (common)
D
XDA = XBC (ext. , cyclic quad.)
XAD ~ XCB (equiangular) C
XA : XD = XC : XB (ratio of sides, ~) (Figure 2)
10(10 + 2) = 8(8 + x)
x=7
I19 In figure 3, AB AC 6 cm and BC 9.6 cm. If the A
diameter of the circumcircle of ABC is x cm, find x.
9.6 2
cos B = = 0.8
6
B C
sin B = 0.6
(Figure 3)
b
By sine rule, = 2R
sin B A 6 cm
6 cm
6
2R = = 10
0.6 B C
4.8 cm 4.8 cm
E
Method 2 Let the perpendicular bisector of BC intersects O
the circumscribed circle at A and D. E is the mid point of
BC, O is the centre of the circle.
AE = 3.6 cm (Pythagoras Theorem) D
AEED = BEEC (intersecting chords theorem)
ED = 6.4 cm
AD = 10 cm
x = 10
I20 In figure 4, ABC = 90, AK BC and E, F are the mid-points of A
AC, KB respectively. If AFE = x, find x.
Let AE = y = EC, AK = t = BC, KF = n = FB. A
Draw EG // CB, cutting AB at G.
AG = GB (intercept theorem) E
t
y
GB = t 2n
1 K
2 K F
GF = t 2n n = t
1 1 G E
n x B C
2 2
1 F y (Figure 4)
GE = t (mid point theorem) n
2
EGF = 90 (int. s, EG // CB)
EGF is a right-angled isosceles triangle B t C
x = 45
Group Events
G1 Find the unit digit of 13577890. (Reference 1990 HI11)
71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401
13577890 (74)197272 9 mod 10
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 x
G2 If , find x.
2 6 12 20 30 42 2450 100
1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 6 12 20 30 42 2450
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
=
1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 49 50
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= 1
2 2 3 3 4 49 50
1 49 98
= 1 = =
50 50 100
x = 98
a b c
G3 , and are three proper fractions in their simplest form, where a, b and c are positive
3 4 6
integers. If c is added to the numerator of each fraction, then the sum of the fractions formed
will be equal to 6. Find the value of a + b + c.
a b c
, and are three proper fractions in their simplest form
3 4 6
a = 1 or 2, b = 1 or 3, c = 1 or 5 (1)
ac bc cc
6
3 4 6
4(a + c) + 3(b + c) + 2(2c) = 72
4a + 3b + 11c = 72 (2)
a = 2, b = 3, c = 5 is a solution
a + b + c = 10
G4 Study the Pascals triangle shown below: Find the sum of all the numbers from Row 1
Row 1 1 to Row 15.
Row 2 1 1
Row 3 1 2 1
Row 4 1 3 3 1
Row 5 1 4 6 4 1
Row 6 1 5 10 10 5 1

0
Sum of the first row = 2
Sum of the second row = 21
Sum of the third row = 22
...........................................
Sum of the fifteen row = 214
215 1
Sum of all numbers from row 1 to row 15 = 20 + 21 + + 214 = = 32767
2 1
G5 In the multiplication 5568, each of the above boxes represents

an integer from 1 to 9. If the integers for the nine boxes above are all different, find the
number represented by .
5568 = 26329 = 17432 = 9658
= 174
G6 Find the remainder when 19971990 1991 is divided by 1996.
19971990 1991 = (1996 + 1)1990 1991
= 1996m + 1 1991 (Binomial theorem, m is an integer)
= 1996(m 1) + 6
The remainder is 6.
1
G7 Find the least positive integral value of n such that n n 1 .
80
1
n n 1
80
n n 1 n n 1

1
n n 1 80
.
1 1

n n 1 80
80 < n n 1 < 2 n
40 < n
1600 < n
The least positive integral value of n = 1601.
G8 One of the solutions of the equation 32 x 59 y 3259 in positive integers is given by
(x, y) (100, 1). It is known that there is exactly one more pair of positive integers (a, b)
(a 100 and b 1) such that 32a 59b 3259 . Find a. (Reference: 1989 HG4)
32 y y1
59 x2 x1
32 y 1
= 2
59 x2 100
y2 = 1 32t, x2 = 100 + 59t
100 1
t
59 32
t is an integer t = 0 or 1
When t = 1, x2 = 41, y2 = 33
Another positive integral solution is (41, 33)
a = 41
G9 In figure 1, XY is a diameter of a cylindrical glass, 48 cm X Y

in base circumference. On the outside is an ant at A, 2 cm
2 cm
below X and on the inside is a small drop of honey at H, 5 cm
A
5 cm below Y. If the length of the shortest path for the ant
H
to reach the drop of honey is x cm, find x. (Neglect the
thickness of the glass.)
Reference: 1983 FG8.1, 1993 HI1, 1996 HG9
Cut the cylinder along a plane through XY perpendicular
to the base. Unfold the curved surface of the A 24 cm C
2 cm
semi-cylinder as a rectangle as shown. X Y
P 5 cm
The length of semi-circular arc of the rim XY = 24 cm
When the ant climbs over the rim somewhere at P, and H
then to H, then AX = 2 cm, YH = 5 cm.

For the shortest distance from A to H, A, P, H must be
collinear. Let C be the foot of perpendicular drawn from A
onto HY produced. Then AXYC is a rectangle.
AC = 24 cm, CH = (2 + 5)cm = 7 cm
x2 = 242 + 72 (Pythagoras theorem)
x = 25
G10 In figure 2, two chords AOB, COD cut at O. If the
C B
tangents at A and C meet at X, the tangents at B and D
meet at Y and AXC = 130, AOD = 120, BYD = k, O
find k. A
D
XC = XA (tangent from ext. point)
XAC is an isosceles triangle
XAC = XCA (base s isosceles )
180 130 (Figure 2)
= = 25 (s sum of XAC)
2
ADC = XAC = 25 ( in alt. segment)
DAO = 180 120 25 = 35 (s sum of AOD)
BDY = DBY = 35 ( in alt. segment)
BYD = 180 35 35 = 110 (s sum of BDY)
k = 110
Individual Events
SI a 50 I1 a 15 I2 a 124 I3 a 7 I4 a 11 I5 a 1080
b 10 b 3 b 50 b 125 b 5 n 21
c 5 c 121 n 12 c 40 *c 9 x 25
see the remark
d 2 d 123 d 10 d 50 d 5 K 6
Group Events
Area of
SG a 64 G6 M 4 G7 n 5 G8 H5 61 G9 BDF 30 G10 A 3
Area of
b 7 N 5 c 2 a 3 FDE
75 B 1
Area of
h 30 z 4 x 60 t 12 ABC
28 C 5
k 150 r 70 y 20 m 7 x 44 D 7
SI.1 If a = 1 + 2 3 + 4 5 + 6 + 100, find a.
a = (1 + 2 3 + 4) + (5 + 6 7 + 8) + + (97 + 98 99 + 100)
= 2 + 2 + + 2 (25 terms) = 50
SI.2 The sum of the first b positive odd numbers is 2a. Find b.
1 + 3 + + (2b 1) = 2a = 100
b
2 2b 1 100
2
b2 = 100
b = 10
SI.3 A bag contains b white balls and 3 black balls. Two balls are drawn from the bag at random.
c
If the probability of getting 2 balls of different colours is , find c.
13
The bag contains 10 white balls and 3 black balls.
10 3 5 c
P(2 different colours) = 2 = =
13 12 13 13
c=5
SI.4 If the lines cx + 10y = 4 and dx y = 5 are perpendicular to each other, find d.
5 d
1
10 1
d=2
Individual Event 1
I1.1 In the figure, ABC is an equilateral triangle and BCDE is a C D
square. If ADC = a, find a. a
ACD = (60 + 90) = 150

A
AC = CD
CAD = a (base, s isos. )
B E
a + a + 150 = 180 (s sum of )
a = 15
I1.2 If rb = 15 and br4 = 125a, where r is an integer, find b.
brr3 = 15r3 = 12515
r3 = 125
r=5
rb = 15
b=3
I1.3 If the positive root of the equation bx2 252x 13431 = 0 is c, find c.
3x2 252x 13431 = 0
x2 84x 4477 = 0, 4477 = 111137 and 84 = 121 + 37
(x 121)(x + 37) = 0
x = c = 121
y 1
I1.4 Given x # y = x y . If d = 10 # c, find d.
x
d = 10 # c
121 1
= 10 121
10
= 12 + 111 = 123
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If a2 1 = 123125 and a > 0, find a.
a2 1 = (124 1) (124 + 1)
= 1242 1
a = 124
I2.2 If the remainder of x3 16x2 9x + a when divided by x 2 is b, find b.
b = 23 16(2)2 9(2) + 124 = 50
I2.3 If an n-sided polygon has (b + 4) diagonals, find n.
C 2n n = 50 + 4
n(n 3) = 108
n2 3n 108 = 0
(n 12)(n + 9) = 0
n = 12
I2.4 If the points (3, n), (5, 1) and (7, d) are collinear, find d.
12 1 d 1

35 7 5
d 1 = 11
d = 10
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If the 6-digit number 168a26 is divisible by 3, find the greatest possible value of a.
1 + 6 + 8 + a + 2 + 6 = 3k, where k is an integer.
The greatest possible value of a = 7
I3.2 A cube with edge a cm long is painted red on all faces. It is then cut into cubes with edge
1 cm long. If the number of cubes with all the faces not painted is b, find b.
Reference: 1994 HG2
The number of cubes with all the faces not painted is b = (7 1 1)3 = 125
I3.3 If (x 85)(x c) x2 bx + 85c, find c.
(x 85)(x c) x2 (85 + c)x + 85c
85 + c = b = 125
c = 40
I3.4 In the figure, AB is a diameter of the circle. Find d. D
Label the vertices as shown. d
CAB = d ( in the same segment)

A B
c + d = 90 ( in semi-circle) c
d = 50
C
Individual Event 4
1 1
I4.1 Given x = 3. If a = x2 + 2 , find a.
x x
1
a = (x )2 + 2
x
= 9 + 2 = 11
I4.2 If f (x) = log2 x and f (a + 21) = b, find b.
b = f (11 + 21) = f (32)
= log2 32 = log2 25 = 5
8b 1 1
I4.3 If cos = , where is an acute angle, and c = , find c.
41 sin tan
40
cos =
41
9 9
sin = , tan =
41 40
41 40
c= =9
9 9
Remark: Original question was ....... where is a positive acute angle ..........
Acute angle must be positive, the words "a positive" is replaced by "an".
d
I4.4 Two dice are tossed. If the probability of getting a sum of 7 or c is , find d.
18
P(sum = 7 or 9) = P(7) + P(9)
6 4 5
= =
36 36 18
d=5
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In Figure 1, if the sum of the interior angles is a,
find a.
a = 180(8 2) (s sum of polygon)
a = 1080
I5.2 If the nth term of the arithmetic progression 80, 130, 180, 230, 280, is a, find n.
First term = 80, common difference = 50
80 + (n 1)50 = 1080
n = 21
I5.3 In Figure 2, AP : PB 2 : 1.
C
If AC 33 cm, BD n cm, PQ x cm, find x. Q
D
From B, draw a line segment FGB // CQD, cutting AC, PQ at F
and G respectively.
B
CDBF, BDQG are parallelograms (2 pairs of // lines) P
A
CF = QG = DB = 21 cm (opp. sides //-gram)
AF = (33 21)cm = 12 cm
BPG ~ BAF (equiangular)
PG PB
(ratio of sides, ~s) C
AF AP PB Q D
PG 1

12 cm 3 F G
PG = 4 cm A P B
PQ = PG + GQ = (4 + 21) cm = 25 cm
x = 25
sin 65 tan 2 60
I5.4 If K = , find K.
tan 30 cos 30 cos x
sin 65 tan 2 60
K=
tan 30 cos 30 cos 25
=

sin 65 3
2
=6
1
3
2
3
sin 65
Sample Group Event

SG.1 The height of an equilateral triangle is 8 3 cm and the area of the
triangle is a 3 cm2. Find a.
Let the length of a side be x cm. x
In the figure, x sin 60 = 8 3 8 3
x = 16 60
1
Area = x 2 sin 60
2
1 3
= 16 2 =a 3
2 2
a = 64
n 10 10
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 b
SG.2 Given that , and . Find b.
x 1 x 1 2 3 n x4 x 2 x4 x 1 18
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1 1 b
= =
2 9 18
b=7
SG.3-SG.4 A boy tries to find the area of a parallelogram by multiplying together the lengths of two
adjacent sides. His answer is double the correct answer. If the acute angle and the obtuse
angle of the figure are h and k respectively,
Reference: 1989 HI7
SG.3 find h.
Let the two adjacent sides be x and y.
xy = 2xy sin h
1
sin h =
2
h = 30
SG.4 find k.
k = 180 30 = 150 (int. s, // lines)
Group Event 6
G6.1-6.2 A 2-digit number x has M as the units digit and N as the tens digit. Another 2-digit number
y has N as the units digit and M as the tens digit. If x > y and their sum is equal to eleven
times their differences,
G6.1 find M. G6.2 find N.
x = 10N + M, y = 10M + N
x>yN>M>0
x + y = 11(x y)
10N + M + 10M + N = 11(10N + M 10M N)
M + N = 9N 9M
10M = 8N
5M = 4N
M is a multiple of 4 and N is a multiple of 5.
N = 5, M = 4
G6.3 The sum of two numbers is 20 and their product is 5.
If the sum of their reciprocals is z, find z.
x + y = 20 and xy = 5
1 1 x y
z= = =4
x y xy
G6.4 In the figure, the average of p and q is 121 + z. Find r.
The exterior angle of r is 180 r (adj. s on st. line)
p + q + (180 r) = 360 (sum of ext. s of polygon) r
p + q r = 180 (1) q
pq
= 121 + z = 125
2
p + q = 250 (2) p
Sub. (2) into (1): 250 r = 180
r = 70
Group Event 7
G7.1 5 printing machines can print 5 books in 5 days.
If n printing machines are required in order to have 100 books printed in 100 days, find n.
100 printing machines can print 100 books in 5 days.
5 printing machines can print 100 books in 100 days
n=5
G7.2 If the equation x2 + 2x + c = 0 has no real root and c is an integer less than 3, find c.
= 22 4c < 0
c > 1 and c is an integer less than 3
c=2
G7.3-G7.4 Chicken eggs cost $0.50 each, duck eggs cost $0.60 each and goose eggs cost $0.90
each. A man sold x chicken eggs, y duck eggs, z goose eggs and received $60. If x, y, z
are all positive numbers with x + y + z = 100 and two of the values x, y, z are equal,
G7.3 find x. G7.4 find y.
0.5x + 0.6y + 0.9z = 60
5x + 6y + 9z = 600 (1)
x + y + z = 100 (2)
If x = z, then 14x + 6y = 600
7x + 3y = 300 (3) and 2x + y = 100 (4)
(3) 3(4): x = 0 (rejected)
If x = y, then 11x + 9z = 600 (5) and 2x + z = 100 (6)
9(6) (5): 7x = 300, x is not an integer, rejected.
(1) 5(2): y + 4z = 100 (7)
If y = z, then y = z = 20, x = 60
Group Event 8
Reference: 1992 FG9.3-4
G8.1-G8.2 Consider the following hexagonal numbers :
H1 = 1 H2 = 7 H3 = 19
G8.1 Find H5.
H2 H1 = 61, H3 H2 = 12 = 62
H4 H3 = 18 = 63
H4 = 19 + 18 = 37
H5 H4 = 64 = 24
H5 = 24 + 37 = 61
G8.2 If Hn = an2 + bn + c, where n is any positive integer, find a.
H1 = a + b + c = 1 (1)
H2 = 4a + 2b + c = 7 (2)
H3 = 9a + 3b + c = 19 (3)
(2) (1): 3a + b = 6 (4)
(3) (2): 5a + b = 12 (5)
(5) (4): 2a = 6
a=3
G8.3 If p : q 2 : 3, q : r 4 : 5 and p : q : r 8 : t : 15 , find t.
p : q : r = 8 : 12 : 15
t = 12
1 1 1 1
G8.4 If : = 4 : 3 and : 3 : m, find m.
x y x y x
1 1
x:y= : =3:4
4 3
1 1 1 1
: : =3:7
x y x 3 4 3
m=7
Group Event 9
G9.1-G9.3 A
In the figure, BC is parallel to DE.
If AB : BC : BF : CF : FE 5 : 4 : 2 : 3 : 5
B C
and the area of BCF is 12, find
G9.1 the area of BDF, F
G9.2 the area of FDE,
G9.3 the area of ABC. D E
G9.1 BCF ~ EDF (equiangular)
DF : EF : DE = CE : FB : BC (ratio of sides, ~s)
5 5
DF = 3 = 7.5, DE = 4 = 10
2 2
7 .5
The area of BDF = 12 = 30
3
5
G9.2 The area of FDE = 30 = 75
2
5
G9.3 The area of CEF = 12 = 30
2
The area of BCED = 12 + 30 + 30 + 75 = 147
ABC ~ ADE (equiangular)
Area of ABC : area of ADE = BC2 : DE2 = 42 : 102 = 4 : 25
Let the area of ABC be y
y : (y + 147) = 4 : 25
4y + 588 = 25y
21y = 588
y = Area of ABC = 28
G9.4 If the volume of a sphere is increased by 72.8%, then the surface area of the sphere is
increased by x%. Find x.
Let the original radius of the sphere be r and the new radius be R
R = r 1 72.8%
4 3 4 3
3 3
3
R 3
= 1.728 = 1.2

r
R = 1.2r
x = 20
Group Event 10
In the attached division 1 D E
G10.1 find A, 2 1 5 A 7 B 9 C
G10.2 find B, F G H
G10.3 find C, J 5 K 9
G10.4 find D. L 5 M 5
N 4 P
FGH = 215 Q R S
D5 1 D E
D = 5, 7, 9 2 1 5 A 7 B 9 C
2155 = 1055 L5M 5 (rejected) 2 1 5
2157 = 1505 = L5M 5 (accepted) J 5 K 9
2159 = 1935 L5M 5 (rejected) L 5 M 5
D = 7, L = 1, M = 0 N 4 P
Q R S
J = 1, A = 3 1 7 E
E = 2, 3 or 4 2 1 5 A 7 B 9 C
2 1 5
N 4 P = QRS
J 5 K 9
2152 = 430 N 4 P (rejected) 1 5 0 5
2153 = 645 = N 4 P (accepted) N 4 P
2154 = 860 N 4 P (rejected) Q R S
E=3
215173 = 37195 1 7 3
A = 3, B = 1, C = 5, D = 7 2 1 5 3 7 1 9 5
2 1 5
1 5 6 9
1 5 0 5
6 4 5
6 4 5
1 5 2 2 3 7 4 6 5 (2, 4)
6 4 7 120 8 7 9 100 10 109
89-90 11 9 12 0 13 2519 14 2 15 10 days
Individual
9
16 5 17 2 13 18 1:2 19 20 58.5
20
1 275 2 73 3 2 4 0 5 1783
89-90
125 5
Group 6 26 7 = 15 8 4:1 9 7 10 2
8 8
Individual Events
1 1 1 1 1
I1 Find the value of + + .
3 8 8 7 7 6 6 5 5 2
1 1 1 1 1
+ +
3 8 8 7 7 6 6 5 5 2
=3+ 8 ( 8+ 7 + ) ( ) (
7+ 6 6+ 5 + ) ( 5+2 )
=5
I2 If b < 0 and 22b+4 202b + 4 = 0, find b.
Let y = 2b, then y2 = 22b, the equation becomes 16y2 20y + 4 = 0
4y2 5y + 1 = 0
(4y 1)(y 1) = 0
1
y = 2b = or y = 1
4
b = 2 or 0
Q b < 0 b = 2 only
I3 If f (a) = a 2 and F(a, b) = a + b2, find F(3, f (4)).
Reference: 1985 FI3.3, 2013 FI3.2, 2015 FI4.3
f (4) = 4 2 = 2
F(3, f (4)) = F(3, 2) = 3 + 22 = 7
I4 For positive integers a and b, define a#b = ab + ba. If 2#w = 100, find the value of w.
2w + w2 = 100 for positive integer w.
By trail and error, 64 + 36 = 100
w = 6.
I5 a and b are constants. The straight line 2ax + 3by = 4a + 12b passes through a fixed point P
whose coordinates do not depend on a and b. Find the coordinates of P.
2ax + 3by = 4a + 12b 2a(x 2) + 3b(y 4) = 0
Put b = 0 x = 2,
Put a = 0 y = 4
P(2, 4)
I6 The sines of the angles of a triangle are in the ratio 3 : 4 : 5. If A is the smallest interior angle
x
of the triangle and cos A = , find the value of x.
5
Let a = 3k, b = 4k, c = 5k.
a2 + b2 = (3k)2 + (4k)2 = (5k)2 = c2
b 4
cos A = =
c 5
x=4
Reference: 1986 FG10.1, 1989 HI15
(1) + (2) (3): 2y = 10 y = 5
(1) + (3) (2): 2x = 8 x = 4
(2) + (3) (1): 2z = 12 z = 6
xyz = 120
I8 If , are the roots of the equation 2x2 + 4x 3 = 0 and 2, 2 are the roots of the equation
x2 + px + q = 0, find the value of p.
+ = 2
3
=
2
p = (2 + 2) = ( + )2 + 2
= (2)2 3 = 7
x3
I9 If x log10 x = and x > 10, find the value of x.
100
Take log on both sides, log xlog x = 3 log x log 100
(log x)2 3 log x + 2 = 0
(log x 1)(log x 2) = 0
log x = 1 or log x = 2
x = 10 or 100
Q x > 10 x = 100 only
I10 Given that a0 = 1, a1 = 3 and a n2 an1an+1 = (1)n for positive integers n. Find a4.
Put n = 1, a12 a0 a 2 = (1)1 32 a2 = 1 a2 = 10
Put n = 2, a 22 a1a3 = (1) 2 102 3a3 = 1 a3 = 33
Put n = 3, a32 a 2 a 4 = (1) 3 332 10a4 = 1 a4 = 109
Reference 1991 HG1
71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401
2137754 (74)18872 9 mod 10
2
1 1
I12 If r + = 3 , find r 3 + 3 .
r r
1
r+ = 3
r
2
1 1
r + 2 =r + 2 = 3 2 = 1
2
r r
1 1 1
r 3 + 3 = r + r 2 1 + 2
r r r
= 3 (1 1) = 0
I13 A positive integer N, when divided by 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2, leaves remainders 9, 8, 7, 6,
5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 respectively. Find the least value of N.
Reference: 1985 FG7.2, 2013FG4.3
N + 1 is divisible by 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2.
The L.C.M. of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 is 2520.
1 cos 45 sin 70 cos 60 tan 40
I14 If = , find the value of A.
A cos 340 sin 135 tan 220
1 cos 45 cos 20 cos 60 tan 40
=
A cos 20 cos 45 tan 40
1
= cos 60 =
2
A=2
I15 If 10 men can make 20 tables in 5 days, how many days are required to make 60 tables by 15
men?
20 2
1 man can make = table in 1 day.
10 5 5
2
15 men can make 15 = 6 tables in one day.
5
They can make 60 tables in 10 days
I16 In figure 1, the exterior angles of the triangle are in the ratio
x : y : z = 4 : 5 : 6 and the interior angles are in the ratio z'
z
x : y : z = a : b : 3. Find the value of b.
Let x = 4k, y = 5k, z = 6k
y'
4k + 5k + 6k = 360 (sum of ext. of polygon) x y
15k = 360 x'
k = 24 (Figure 1)
x = 96, y = 120, z = 144
x = 84, y = 60, z = 36 (adj. s on st. line)
x:y:z=7:5:3
b=5
I17 In ABC, C = 90 and D, E are the mid-points of BC and A

CA respectively. If AD = 7 and BE = 4, find the length of
AB. (See figure 2.)
Let BD = x = DC, AE = y = EC E
x2 + (2y)2 = 72 (1)
(2x)2 + y2 = 42 (2)
4(1) (2): 15y2 = 180 y2 = 12 B D C
4(2) (1): 15x2 = 15 x2 = 1 (Figure 2)
AB2 = (2x)2 + (2y)2 = 4 + 48
AB = 52 = 2 13
I18 Figure 3 shows 3 semi-circles of diameters a, 2a and 3a
respectively. Find the ratio of the area of the shaded part to
that of the unshaded part.
a 3
2
Area of the shaded part = a 2 = a 2

2 2 2 8
a a a
3a 3 6
2
Area of the unshaded part = a 2 = a 2 (Figure 3)

2 2 8 8
The ratio = 3 : 6 = 1 : 2
1 1 1 1
I19 Find the value of + + +L+ .
2 3 3 4 4 5 19 20
1 1 1 1
+ + +L+
2 3 3 4 4 5 19 20
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= + + +L+
2 3 3 4 4 5 19 20
1 1 9
= =
2 20 20
I20 In figure 4, C = 90, AD = DB and DE is perpendicular C
to AB. If AB = 20 and AC = 12, find the area of the E
quadrilateral ADEC.
BDE ~ BCA (equiangular) A B
D
BD : DE : BE = 16 : 12 : 20 (ratio of sides, ~s) (Figure 4)
DE =7.5, BE = 12.5
CE = 16 12.5 = 3.5
1 1
SADEC = 10 7.5 + 12 3.5 = 58.5
2 2
Method 2
BDE ~ BCA (equiangular)
2 2
BD 10 1
SBDE = S ABC = 12 16 = 37.5
BC 16 2
1
SADEC = 12 16 37.5 = 58.5
2
Group Events
1 1 1 1 1 1
G1 If + = 5 and 2 + 2 = 13 , find the value of 5 + 5 .
a b a b a b
2
(1)2 (2): = 12
ab
1
ab = (4)
6
From (1): (a + b )
1
= 5 (5)
ab
Sub. (4) into (5): 6(a + b) = 5
5
a+b= (6)
6
From (4) and (6), a and b are roots of 6t2 5t + 1 = 0
(2t 1)(3t 1) = 0
1 1
t= or
2 3
1 1
5
+ 5 = 25 + 35
a b
= 32 + 243 = 275
G2 There are N pupils in a class.
When they are divided into groups of 4, 1 pupil is left behind.
Find the least value of N.
Reference: 1992 HG4
N = 4p + 1 (1), p is an integer
N = 5q + 3 (2), q is an integer
N = 7r + 3 (3), r is an integer
(3) (2): 7r = 5q
r = 5k, q = 7k, where k is an integer
N = 35k + 3 = 4p + 1
4p 35k = 2
By trial and error,
p = 18, k = 2 is a solution
N = 73
G3 The coordinates of A, B, C and D are (10, 1), (1, 7), (2, 1) and (1, 3) respectively. AB and CD
AP
meet at P. Find the value of .
PB
Reference: 1989 HG5
y 1 1 7
Equation of AB: =
x 10 10 1
2x + 3y 23 = 0 (1)
y 1 3 1
Equation of CD: =
x + 2 1+ 2
2x 3y + 7 = 0 (2)
(1) + (2): 4x 16 = 0
x=4
(1) (2): 6y 30 = 0
y=5
AP
Let =r
PB
10 + r
4=
1+ r
4 + 4r = 10 + r
r=2
G4 Find the remainder when 21989 + 1 is divided by 3.
21989 + 1 = (3 1)1989 + 1 = 3m 1 + 1, binomial theorem, m is an integer.
The remainder is 0.
Method 2
21 + 1 = 3 0 mod 3, 22 + 1 = 5 2 mod 3, 23 + 1 0 mod 3, 24 + 1 2 mod 3
The pattern of the remainder repeats for every multiples of 2.
21989 + 1 21 + 1 0 mod 3
the remainder = 0
G5 Euler was born and died between 1700 A.D. and 1800 A.D. He was n + 9 years old in n3 A.D.
and died at the age of 76. Find the year in which Euler died.
Suppose he was born in x years after 1700 A.D.
1700 + x + n + 9 1 = n3 (1)
113 = 1331, 123 = 1728, 133 > 1800
n = 12, x = 1728 1700 12 9 + 1 = 8
1700 + x + 76 1 = 1783
He was died in A.D. 1783.
G6 Let N! denotes the product of the first N natural numbers, i.e. N! = 123N.
If k is a positive integer such that 30! = 2k an odd integer, find k.
Reference: 1994 FG7.1, 1996 HI3, 2004 FG1.1, 2011 HG7, 2012 FI1.4, 2012 FG1.3
2, 4, 6, 8, , 30 each has at least one factor of 2. Subtotal = 15
4, 8, , 28 each has at least 2 factors of 2. Subtotal = 7
8, 16, 24 each has at least 3 factors of 2. Subtotal = 3
16 has 4 factors of 2. Subtotal = 1
Total number of factors of 2 = 15 + 7 + 3 + 1 = 26
9 y
G7 The graph of the parabola y = x 2 4 x cuts the
4 9
y = x2 4x
x-axis at A and B (figure 1). If C is the vertex of the 4
parabola, find the area of ABC.
Let the roots be , , where > .
A
AB = = ( + )2 4 B O
x
9
= 42 + 4 =5
4 C
9
4 ( 4 )
2
4ac b 2
=
4 25
Minimum = =
4a 4 4 (Figure 1)
1 25 125
Area of ABC = 5 =
2 4 8
G8 In figure 2, FE // BC and ED // AB. If AF : FB = 1 : 4 , find
A
the ratio of area of EDC : area of DEF.
Reference: 1989 HI17 F E
DEF FBD (A.S.A.)
Let SDEF = x = SFBD (where S stands for the area) B D C
2
S AEF 1 1 (Figure 2)
= = (1)
S ACB 1 + 4 25
AE : EC = AF : FB = 1 : 4 (theorem of equal ratio)
Q DE // AB
2
S CDE 4 16
= = (2)
S CBA 1 + 4 25
Compare (1) and (2) SAEF = k, SCDE = 16k, SABC = 25k
k + 16k + x + x = 25k
x = 4k
area of DEF : area of ABC = 16 : 4 = 4 : 1
G9 In the attached multiplication (figure 3), the letters O, L, Y, M, P, I, A O L Y M P I A D

and D represent different integers ranging from 1 to 9. Find the integer D
represented by A. OOOO O OOOO
12 = 1, 22 = 4, 32 = 9, 42 = 16, 52 = 25, 62 = 36, 72 = 49, 82 = 64, 92 = 81
Possible (D,O) = (2,4), (3,9), (4,6), (7,9), (8,4), (9,1)
When D = 9, O = 1, (OLYMPIAD) = 1111111119 = 12345679
A= 7
G10 Three circles, with centres A, B and C respectively, touch one P
another as shown in figure 4. If A, B and C are collinear and PQ
is a common tangent to the two smaller circles, where PQ = 4,
find the area of the shaded part in terms of .
B A C
Let the radii of the 3 circles with centres A, B and C be a, b, c.
2b + 2c = 2a a = b + c (1)
By intersecting chords theorem, 2c2b = 22
bc = 1 (2)
Shaded area = a2 b2 c2 Q
= [a2 (b2 + c2)] (Figure 4)
= [a2 (b + c)2 + 2bc]
= (a2 a2 + 2) by (1) and (2)
= 2
Individual Events
SI h 4 I1 a 5 I2 p 3 I3 a 1000 I4 a 5 I5 a 17
k 32 b 4 q 36 b 8 b 12 b 5
p 3 c 10 k 12 c 16 c 4 c 23
q 16 d 34 m 150 d 1 d 12 d 9
Group Events
SG a 2 G6 a 150 G7 C 47 G8 A 2 G9 S 1000 G10 A 1584
b 3 b 10 K 2 B 3 K 98 k 14
p 60 k 37.5 A 1 C 7 t 20 x 160
q 136 d 6 B 5 k 9 d 5 n 15
h
SI.1 Given that 3x2 4x + = 0 has equal roots, find h.
3
h
= (4)2 4(3) =0
3
h=4
SI.2 If the height of a cylinder is doubled and the new radius is h times the original, then the new
Let the old height be x, old radius be r, then the old volume is r2x.
The new height is 2x, the new radius is 4r,
then the new volume is (4r)2(2x) = 32r2x
k = 32
SI.3 If log10 210 + log10k log1056 + log1040 log10120 + log1025 = p, find p.
210 32 40 25
p = log10
56 120
= log10 1000 = 3
p cos A q
SI.4 If sin A = and = , find q.
5 tan A 15
3
sin A =
5
cos A q
=
tan A 15
cos 2 A q
=
sin A 15
1 sin 2 A 1 ( 53 ) 16 q
2
= 3
= =
sin A 5 15 15
q = 16
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Find a if 2t + 1 is a factor of 4t2 + 12t + a.
Let f(t) = 4t2 + 12t + a
2
1 1 1
f = 4 + 12 + a = 0
2 2 2
a=5
I1.2 K denotes the nonnegative square root of K, where K 0. If b is the root of the equation
a x = x 3, find b.
( )
2
5 x = (x 3)2
5 x = x2 6x + 9
x2 5x + 4 = 0
x = 1 or 4
When x = 1, LHS = 2 1 = RHS
When x = 4, LHS = 1 = RHS.
x=b=4
20
I1.3 If c is the greatest value of , find c.
b + 2 cos
20 20 10
= =
b + 2 cos 4 + 2 cos 2 + cos
10
c = the greatest value = = 10
2 1
I1.4 A man drives a car at 3c km/h for 3 hours and then 4c km/h for 2 hours. If his average speed
for the whole journey is d km/h, find d.
Total distance travelled = (303 + 402) km = 170 km
170
d= = 34
3+ 2
Individual Event 2
1
I2.1 If 0 < 360, the equation in : 3 cos + = 4 has p roots. Find p.
cos
3 cos2 + 1 = 4 cos
3 cos2 4 cos + 1 = 0
1
cos = or 1
3
p=3
1 1
I2.2 If x = p and x 3 3 = q , find q.
x x
2
1 1
x =3; x =9
x x
1
x 2 + 2 = 11
x
1
q = x3 3
x
1 1
= x x 2 + 1 + 2
x x
= 3(11 + 1) = 36
I2.3 A circle is inscribed in an equilateral triangle of perimeter A
2
q cm. If the area of the circle is k cm , find k.
12 cm
Let the equilateral triangle be ABC, the centre of the
12 cm E
inscribed circle is O, which touches the triangle at D and
O
E, with radius r cm
Perimeter = 36 cm r cm
Each side = 12 cm
B 12 cm D C
ACB = 60 (s of an equilateral )
ODC = 90 (tangent radius)
OCD = 30 (tangent from ext. pt.)
CD = 6 cm (tangent from ext. pt.)
r = 6 tan 30 = 2 3
( ) 2
Area of circle = 2 3 cm2 = 12 cm2
k = 12
I2.4 Each interior angle of a regular polygon of k sides is m. Find m.
Angle sum of 12-sides polygon = 180(12 2) = 1800
Each interior angle = m = 1800 12 = 150
m = 150
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If 998a + 1 = 9992, find a.
998a = 9992 1
= (999 1)(999 + 1)
= 9981000
a = 1000
I3.2 If log10a = log2b, find b.
log10 1000 = log2b
log2 b = 3
b = 23 = 8
I3.3 The area of the triangle formed by the x-axis, the y-axis and the line 2x + y = b is c sq. units.
Find c.
2x + y = 8; x-intercept = 4, y-intercept = 8
1
c = area = 4 8 = 16
2
I3.4 If 64t2 + ct + d is a perfect square, find d.
64t2 + 16t + d has a double root
= 162 464d = 0
d=1
Individual Event 4
I4.1 Solve the equation 2a+1 + 2a + 2a1 = 112 in a.
1
2a(2 + 1 + ) = 112
2
2a = 32
a=5
Method 2
112 = 64 + 32 + 16 = 26 + 25 + 24
a=5
I4.2 If a is one root of the equation x2 bx + 35 = 0, find b.
One root of x2 bx + 35 = 0 is 5
52 5b + 35 = 0
b = 12
b c
I4.3 If sin = , where 180 < < 270, and tan = , find c.
15 3
12 4
sin = =
15 5
4
tan =
3
c=4
1
I4.4 The probability of getting a sum of c in throwing two dice is . Find d.
d
P(sum = 4) = P((1,3), (2, 2), (3, 1))
3 1 1
= = =
36 12 d
d = 12
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In the figure, find a. 12
a2 82 = 122 + 92 (Pythagoras Theorem)
8 9
a = 17
I5.2 If the lines ax + by = 1 and 10x 34y = 3 are perpendicular to each other, find b.
17x + by = 1 is perpendicular to 10x 34y = 3
17 10
= 1
b 34
b=5
I5.3 If the bth day of May in a year is Friday and the cth day of May in the same year is Tuesday,
where 16 < c < 24, find c.
5th May is a Friday
9th May is Tuesday
16th May is Tuesday
23rd May is Tuesday
c = 23
I5.4 c is the dth prime number. Find d.
The first few prime numbers are: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23
23 is the 9th prime number
d=9

Let the 2 numbers be x, y.
x + y = 50, xy = 25
1 1
a= +
x y
x+ y
=
xy
50
= =2
25
2x + 2y + 1 = 0 is to 3x + by + 5 = 0
2 3
= 1
2 b
b = 3
Let the length of one side be x cm.
1 2
x sin 60 o = 100 3
2
x = 20
p = 60
Let f(x) = x3 2x2 + 60x + q
f(2) = 8 8 120 + q = 0
q = 136
Group Event 6
(68 3
)( )
65 3 32 3 + 18 3
G6.1 If a =
(32 32 18 + 18 ) (68 + 68 65 + 65 ) , find a.
2 2 2 2
(32 + 18)(32 32 18 + 18 ) (68 65)(68 + 68 65 + 65 )

2 2 2 2
a=
(32 32 18 + 18 ) (68 + 68 65 + 65 )
2 2 2 2
= 503 = 150
G6.2 If the 3 points (a, b), (10, 4) and (20, 3) are collinear, find b.
b+4 3+ 4
150 10 20 10
b = 10
G6.3 If the acute angle formed by the hands of a clock at 4:15 is k, find k.
Reference 1984 FG7.1, 1985 FI3.1, 1987 FG7.1, 1989 FI1.1, 2007 HI1
1
k = 30 + 30 = 37.5
4
G6.4 In the figure, PQ = 10, RS = 15, QS = 20. If XY = d, find d. R
Reference: 1985 FI2.4, 1989 HG8 P
1 1 1 25 1
= + = = X 15
d 10 15 150 6 10
d
d=6
Q Y S
20
Group Event 7
G7.1 2 apples and 3 oranges cost 6 dollars.
4 apples and 7 oranges cost 13 dollars.
16 apples and 23 oranges cost C dollars. Find C.
Let the cost of one apple be $x and one orange be $y.
2x + 3y = 6 (1)
4x + 7y = 13 (2)
(2) 2(1): y = 1, x = 1.5
C = 16x + 23y = 24 + 23 = 47
6 cos + 5 sin
G7.2 If K = and tan = 2, find K.
2 cos + 3 sin
sin
6 cos
cos
+ 5 cos
K= sin
2 cos
cos
+ 3 cos
6 + 5 tan
=
2 + 3 tan
6 + 5 2
= =2
2 + 3 2
G7.3 and G7.4 A, B are positive integers less than 10 such that 21A104 11 = 2B8016 9.
G7.3 Find A.
11 and 9 are relatively prime, 21A104 is divisible by 9.
2 + 1 + A + 1 + 0 + 4 = 9m
8 + A = 9m
A=1
G7.4 Find B.
2B8016 is divisible by 11.
2 + 8 + 1 (B + 0 + 6) = 11n
11 (B + 6) = 11n
B=5
Group Event 8
In the multiplication shown, the letters A, B, C and K (A < B) represent different A C

) B C
integers from 1 to 9. K K K
(Hint: KKK = K111.)
G8.1 Find A.
12 = 1, 22 = 4, 32 = 9, 42 = 16, 52 = 25, 62 = 36, 72 = 49, 82 = 64, 92 = 81
Possible K = 1, 4, 5, 6, 9
100K + 10K + K = 111K = 337K, 37 is a prime number
Either 10A + C or 10B + C is divisible by 37
10B + C = 37 or 74
When B = 3, C = 7, K = 9
999 37 = 27
A=2
G8.2 Find B.
B=3
G8.3 Find C.
C=7
G8.4 Find K.
K=9
Group Event 9
G9.1 If S = ab 1 + a b and a = 101, b = 9, find S.
S = (a 1)(b + 1) = 10010 = 1000
K
G9.2 If x = 1.98& 9& and x 1 = , find K.
99
89
x = 1.9 +
990
K 9 89
x1= = +
99 10 990
9 99 + 89 980 98
= = =
990 990 99
K = 98
G9.3 The average of p, q and r is 18. The average of p + 1, q 2, r + 3 and t is 19. Find t.
p+q+r
= 18
3
p + q + r = 54
p +1+ q 2 + r + 3 + t
= 19
4
p + q + r + 2 + t = 76
54 + 2 + t = 76
t = 20
) ) )
G9.4 In the figure, QR , RP , PQ are 3 arcs, centres at X, Y and Z
Z
respectively, touching one another at P, Q and R. If ZQ = d,
XR = 3, YP = 12, X = 90, find d. d P
Q 12
XZ = 3 + d, XY = 3 + 12 = 15, YZ = 12 + d
XZ2 + XY2 = YZ2 (Pythagoras theorem)
X 3 R Y
(3 + d)2 + 152 = (12 + d)2
9 + 6d + d2 + 225 = 144 + 24d + d2
18d = 90
d=5
Group Event 10
G10.1 If A = 1 + 2 3 + 4 + 5 6 + 7 + 8 9 + + 97 + 98 99, find A.

A = (1 + 2 3) + (4 + 5 6) + (7 + 8 9) + + (97 + 98 99)
3 + 96
A = 0 + 3 + 6 + + 96 = 32 = 9916 = 1584
2
G10.2 If log10(k 1) log10(k2 5k + 4) + 1 = 0, find k.
10(k 1) = k2 5k + 4
k2 15k + 14 = 0
k = 1 or 14
When k = 1, LHS is undefined rejected

When k = 14, LHS = log10 13 log10(14 1)(14 4) + 1 = RHS
k = 14
G10.3 and G10.4 One interior angle of a convex n-sided polygon is x. The sum of the remaining
interior angles is 2180.
Reference: 1989 HG2, 1992 HG3, 2002 FI3.4, 2013 HI6
G10.3 Find x.
2180 + x = 180(n 2) (s sum of polygon)
2160 + 20 + x = 18012 + 20 + x = 180(n 2)
Q x < 180
20 + x = 180
x = 160
G10.4 Find n.
n 2 = 12 + 1
n = 15
1
1 7 2 2 3 24 4 5 12 km/h
2
88-89 6 45 7 45 8 4 9 2 10 12
Individual 5
11 12 147 13 3 14 2 15 24
12
16 12 17 6 : 25 18 24 19 230 20 12
9 3
1 2 7 3 6585 4 (12, 20) 5
88-89 20 2
Group 12
6 43 7 480 8 9 5 10 110768
5
Individual Events
1 1
I1 Given that x + = 3 , find x 2 + 2 .
x x
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1984 FG10.2, 1985 FI1.2, 1987 FG8.2, 1990 HI12, 1997 HG7
2
1 1
x + 2 = x + 2
2
x x
2
=3 2=7
I2 If x # y = xy 2x, find the value of 2 # 3.
2 # 3 = 2 3 2 2 = 2
I3 Find the number of sides of a regular polygon if an interior angle exceeds an exterior angle by
150. (Reference 1997 HG6)
sides.
180o (n 2 ) 360o
x= ,y=
n n
x = y + 150
180o (n 2 ) 360o
= + 150
n n
180(n 2) = 360 + 150n
18n 36 = 36 + 15n
n = 24
I4 Find the value of b such that 10 log10 9 = 8b + 5 .
9 = 8b + 5
1
b=
2
I5 A man cycles from P to Q with a uniform speed of 15 km/h and then back from Q to P with a
uniform speed of 10 km/h. Find the average speed for the whole journey.
Let the distance between P and Q be x km.
x x
Total distance travelled = 2x km. Total time = + hour.
15 10
2x
Average speed = km/h
x x
+
15 10
2
= = 12 km/h
2+3
30
I6 [x] denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to x. For example, [3] = 3, [5.7] = 5.
If [ 51]+ [ 5 2 ]+ L + [ 5 n ] = n + 14 , find n.
Reference 1991 HI13
[ 1]= 1, [ 2 ]= 1, , [ 31]= 1; [ 32 ]= 2, , [ 242 ]= 2; [ 243 ]= 3
5 5 5 5 5 5
If n 31, [ 1 ]+ [ 2 ]+ L + [ n ] = n
5 5 5
If 32 n 242, [ 1 ]+ [ 2 ]+ L + [ n ] = 31 + 2(n 31) = 2n 31

5 5 5
2n 31 = n + 14
n = 45
I7 A boy tries to find the area of a parallelogram by multiplying together the lengths of two
adjacent sides. His answer is 2 times the correct area. If the acute angle of the
parallelogram is x, find x. (Reference: 1991 FSG.3-4)
Let the lengths of two adjacent sides be a and b, where the angle between a and b is x.
ab = 2ab sin x o
1
sin x =
2
x = 45
I8 If the points A (8, 6), B (2, 1) and C (4, c) are collinear, find c.
Reference: 1984 FSG.4, 1984 FG7.3, 1986 FG6.2, 1987 FG7.4
mCB = mBA
c 1 1 6
=
4+2 2+8
c = 4
I9 The graphs of x2 + y = 8 and x + y = 8 meet at two points. If the distance between these two
points is d , find d.
From (1), y = 8 x2 (3)
From (2), y = 8 x (4)
(3) = (4): 8 x = 8 x2
x = 0 or 1
When x = 0, y = 8; when x = 1, y = 7
Distance between the points (0, 8) and (1, 7) = 12 + (7 8) = 2
2
d=2
I10 The sines of the three angles of a triangle are in the ratio 3 : 4 : 5. If A is the smallest interior
x
angle of the triangle and tan A = , find x.
16
Reference: 1990 HI6
Let a = 3k, b = 4k, c = 5k.
a2 + b2 = (3k)2 + (4k)2 = (5k)2 = c2
a 3 12
tan A = = =
b 4 16
x = 12
I11 Two dice are thrown. Find the probability that the sum of the two numbers shown is greater
than 7. (Reference: 2002 HG7)
P( sum > 7) = P(sum = 8 or 9 or 10 or 11 or 12)
5 4 3 2 1
= + + + +
36 36 36 36 36
15 5
= =
36 12
6 1
Method 2 P(7) = =
36 6
P(2, 3, 4, 5, 6) = P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
P(2, 3, 4, 5, 6) + P(7) + P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12) = 1
5
2P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12) = 1 P(7) =
6
5
P(8, 9, 10, 11, 12) =
12
2 x + 1 , if x 3
I12 F is a function defined by F ( x) = 2 . Find F (F (3) ) .
3 x , if x > 3
F(3) = 23 + 1 = 7
F(F(3)) = F(7) = 372 = 147
x 14

I13 If (a b c ) y = ax + by + cz and (1 2 3) y = 26 , find y. (Reference: 1986 FI3.4)
z 2

14

(1 2 3) y = 14 + 2y + 6 = 26 y = 3
2

I14 If = , find B.
=
sin 37 sin 45 cos 60 sin 60 1
= = cos 60 =
sin 60 sin 45 sin 37 2
B=2
(1) + (2) (3): 2y = 6 y = 3
(1) + (3) (2): 2x = 2 x = 1
(2) + (3) (1): 2z = 16 z = 8
xyz = 24
I16 , are the roots of the equation x2 10x + c = 0. If = 11 and > , find the value of
.
+ = 10
= ( + )2 4
= 10 2 4( 11) = 12
I17 In figure 1, FE // BC and ED // AB. If AF : FB = 3 : 2, find the A

ratio area of DEF : area of ABC. Reference: 1990 HG8
DEF FBD (A.S.A.) F E
Let SDEF = x = SFBD (where S stands for the area)
2
S AEF 3 9 B C
= = (1) D
S ACB 2 + 3 25
AE : EC = AF : FB = 3 : 2 (theorem of equal ratio) (Figure 1)
Q DE // AB
2
S CDE 2 4
= = (2)
S CBA 2 + 3 25
Compare (1) and (2) SAEF = 9k, SCDE = 4k, SABC = 25k
9k + 4k + x + x = 25k
x = 6k
area of DEF : area of ABC = 6 : 25
I18 In figure 2, a regular hexagon ABCDEF is inscribed in a circle A F
centred at O. If the distance of O from AB is 2 3 and p is the
perimeter of the hexagon, find p.
2 3
Let H be the foot of perpendiculars drawn from O onto AB.
AOB = 360 6 = 60 (s at a point) B O E
AOH = 30
1
AH = OH tan 30 = 2 3 =2
3 C D
AB = 4 (Figure 2)
Perimeter = 64 = 24
I19 In figure 3, ABCD and ACDE are cyclic quadrilaterals. Find the A
value of x + y.
Reference: 1992 FI2.3 B
x 50
ADC = 180 x (opp. s cyclic quad.)
ACD = 180 y (opp. s cyclic quad.) y E
180 y + 180 x + 50 = 180 (s sum of )
x + y = 230
(Figure 3) C D
I20 Find the value of a in figure 4. A
AOB ~ DOC (equiangular) 2
C
a 6 4
=
4 2 O a
4
a = 12 B
6
(Figure 4) D
Group Events
G1 Given a and b are distinct real numbers satisfying a2 = 5a + 10 and b2 = 5b + 10. Find the
1 1
value of 2 + 2 .
a b
a + b = 5; ab = 10
1 a 2 + b 2 (a + b ) 2ab 5 2 2( 10 ) 9
2
1
+ = = = =
a 2 b2 a 2b 2 (ab )2 ( 10)2 20
G2 An interior angle of an n-sided convex polygon is x while the sum of other interior angles is
800. Find the value of n. (1990 FG10.3-4, 1992 HG3, 2002 FI3.4, 2013 HI6)
800 = 1804 + 80
Q 0 < x < 180
800 + x = 1805 = 180(n 2)
n=7
n(n + 1)(2n + 1)
G3 It is known that 12 + 22 + + n2 = for all positive integers n.
6
Find the value of 212 + 222 + + 302.
Reference: 1993 HI6
212 + 222 + + 302 = 12 + 22 + + 302 (12 + 22 + + 202)
1 1
= 303161 202141 = 9455 - 2870 = 6585
6 6
G4 One of the positive integral solutions of the equation 19x + 88y = 1988 is given by (100, 1).
Find another positive integral solution. (Reference: 1991 HG8)
19 y y1
88 x2 x1
19 y 1
= 2
88 x2 100
y2 = 1 19t, x2 = 100 + 88t
25 1
<t <
22 19
Q t is an integer t = 0 or 1
When t = 1, x2 = 12, y2 = 20 another positive integral solution is (12, 20).
AP
G5 The line joining A(2, 3) and B(17, 23) meets the line 2x y = 7 at P. Find the value of .
PB
Reference: 1990 HG3
y 3 23 3
Equation of AB: = 3y = 4x + 1 (2)
x 2 17 2
From (1): y = 2x 7 (3)
Sub. (3) into (2): 3(2x 7) = 4x + 1 x = 11
Sub. x = 11 into (3): y = 2(11) 7 = 15
The point of intersection is P(11, 15).
AP 11 2 3
= =
PB 17 11 2
G6 Find the remainder when 72047 is divided by 100.

Reference: 2002 HG4
71 = 7, 72 = 49, 73 = 343, 74 = 2401
The last 2 digits repeats for every multiples of 4.
72047 = 74511+3
The last 2 digits is 43.
G7 If log2[log3(log7 x)] =log3[log7(log2 y)] =log7[log2(log3 z)] = 0, find the value of x + y + z.
log2[log3(log7 x)] = 0
log3(log7 x) = 1
log7 x = 3
x = 73 = 343
log3[log7(log2 y)] = 0
log7(log2 y) = 1
log2 y = 7
y = 27 = 128
log7[log2(log3 z)] = 0
log2(log3 z) = 1
log3 z = 2
z = 32 = 9
x + y + z = 343 + 128 + 9 = 480
G8 In figure 1, AB // MN // CD. If AB = 4, CD = 6 and MN = x, D
find the value of x. B
Reference: 1985 FI2.4, 1990 FG6.4 N 6
AMN ~ ACD (equiangular) 4
x AM x
6 AC A M C
CMN ~ CAB (equiangular) (Figure 1)
x MC
4 AC
x x AM + MC 12
(1) + (2): + = = 1 x =
6 4 AC 5
G9 In figure 2, B = 90, BC = 3 and the radius of the inscribed A
circle of ABC is 1. Find the length of AC.
Let the centre be O. Suppose the circle touches BC at P, AC at Q
and AB at R respectively. Let AB = c and AC = b. Q
OP BC, OQ AC, OR AB (tangent radius) O
OPBR is a rectangle OPBR is a square. R 1
BP = BR = 1 (opp. sides of rectangle) 1
CP = 3 1 = 2 B C
CQ = CP = 2 (tangent from ext. point) P 3
Let AR = AQ = t (tangent from ext. point)
32 + (1 + t)2 = (2 + t)2 (Pythagoras theorem)
9 + 1 + 2t + t2 = 4 + 4t + t2
6 = 2t
t = 3 AC = 2 + 3 = 5
G10 In the attached division (see figure 3), the *8*

dividend in (a) is divisible by the divisor in line
(b) ......... * * * ) * * * * * * ......... (a)
(b). Find the dividend in line (a). (Each asterisk
* is an integer from 0 to 9.) ****
Relabel the * as shown. ***
Let a = (a18a3)x,
***
b = (b1b2b3)x
c = (c1c2c3c4c5c6)x ****
d = (d1d2d3d4)x ****
e = (e1e2e3)x a1 8 a3
f = (f1f2f3)x
(b) ......... b1 b2 b3 ) c1 c2 c3 c4 c5 c6 ......... (a)
g = (g1g2g3g4)x
Q 8b = e and a1b = d, a3b = g 4-digit numbers d1 d2 d3 d4
a1 = 9 and a3 = 9 and d = g e1 e2 e3
d = 9b > 1000 and f = 8b < 999 f1 f2 f3
112 b 124 (1)
b1 = 1, d1 = 1 g1 g2 g3 g4
b2 = 1 or 2, f1 = 8 or 9, d2 = 0 or 1 g1 g2 g3 g4
c1 = 1 9 8 9
e1 f1 = 1
(b) ......... 1 b2 b3 ) 1 c2 c3 c4 c5 c6 ......... (a)
f1 = 8 and e1 = 9
8b = (8f2f3)x < 900 1 d2 d3 d4
b < 112.5 (2) e1 e2 e3
Combine (1) and (2) f1 f2 f3
b = 112
c = 989112 = 110768 1 d2 d3 d4
1 d2 d3 d4
Individual Events
SI a 900 I1 a 35 I2 a 7 I3 8 I4 t 13 I5 a 30
b 7 b 7 b 3 b 16 s 4 b 150
c 3 c 10 c 9 A 128 a 3 n 12
d 5 d 2 d 5 d 7 c 12 k 24
Group Events
SG a 2 G6 n 8 G7 G 1 G8 y 7 G9 x 40 G10 a 6
b 9 k 5 D 8 k 96 y 3 x 3
p 23 u 35 L 2 a 1 k 8 k 2
k 3 a 1 E 5 m 2 r 5 y 4

Find a.
Reference: 1984 FSI.1 1987 FSG.3
a = 1080 180 = 900
SI.2 The sum of the interior angles of a convex b-sided polygon is a. Find b.
a = 900 = 180(b 2)
b=7
SI.3 If 27b1 = c18, find c.
33(71) = c18
c=3
3 = c = logd 125
d3 = 125
d=5
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The obtuse angle formed by the hands of a clock at 10:30 is (100 + a). Find a.
Reference 1984 FG7.1, 1985 FI3.1, 1987 FG7.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
1 1
From 10:00 to 10:30, the hour-hand had moved 360 = 15.
12 2
100 + a = 180 60 + 15 = 135 a = 35
I1.2 The lines ax + by = 0 and x 5y + 1 = 0 are perpendicular to each other. Find b.
35 1
= 1
b 5
b=7
I1.3 If (b + 1)4 = 2c+2, find c.
84 = 2c+2
23(4) = 2c+2
c = 10
I1.4 If c 9 = logc (6d 2), find d.
10 9 = 1 = log10 (6d 2)
6d 2 = 10
d=2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 If 1000a = 852 152, find a.
1000a = (85 + 15)(85 15) = 10070
a=7
I2.2 The point (a, b) lies on the line 5x + 2y = 41. Find b.
5(7) + 2b = 41
b=3
I2.3 x + b is a factor of x2 + 6x + c. Find c.
Put x = 3 into x2 + 6x + c = 0
(3)2 + 6(3) + c = 0
c=9
I2.4 If d is the distance between the points (c, 1) and (5, 4), find d.
d2 = (9 5)2 + (1 4)2 = 25
d=5
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If + = 11, = 24 and > , find .
and are the roots of the equation x2 11x + 24 = 0
(x 3)(x 8) = 0
Q>=8
b
I3.2 If tan = , 90 < < 180 and sin = , find b.
15 34
In the figure, P = (8, 15)
P(8, -15)
r2 = 82 + (15)2 (Pythagoras theorem) 2
r = 17 r
8 16 8
sin = =
17 34
N -15 O
b = 16
I3.3 If A is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of diameter b, find A.
Reference: 1984 FG10.1, 1985 FSG.4
E D
BC = 16 cos 45 = 8 2
( ) 2
A = 8 2 = 128 16
45
B C
I3.4 If x2 + 22x + A (x + k)2 + d, where k, d are constants, find d.

x2 + 22x + 128 (x + 11)2 + 7
d=7
Individual Event 4
I4.1 The average of p, q, r is 12. The average of p, q, r, t, 2t is 15. Find t.
p + q + r = 36
p + q + r + t + 2t = 75
3t = 75 36 = 39
t = 13
1 1
I4.2 k is a real number such that k4 + 4 = t + 1, and s = k2 + 2 . Find s.
k k
1
k4 + 4 = 14
k
1
k4 + 2 + 4 = 16
k
1
(k2 + 2 )2 = 16
k
1
s = k2 + 2 = 4
k
I4.3 M and N are the points (1, 2) and (11, 7) respectively. P(a, b) is a point on MN such that
MP : PN = 1 : s. Find a.
MP : PN = 1 : 4
4 + 11
a= =3
1+ 4
I4.4 If the curve y = ax2 + 12x + c touches the x-axis, find c.
y = 3x2 + 12x + c
= 122 4(3)c = 0
c = 12
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In the figure, find a. (Reference: 1997 FG1.1) P
T
Label the vertices A, B, C, D, E, P, Q, R, S, T as shown. a
AEP = 40 + 45 = 85 (ext. of SQE) 30 E
A
EAP = 30 + 35 = 65 (ext. of TRA) Q
In AEP, 85 + 65 + a = 180 (s sum of ) D 45
a = 30 B
C 35
40
S R
I5.2 If sin(a + 210) = cos b, and 90 < b < 180, find b.
3
sin 240 = = cos b
2
b = 150
I5.3 Each interior angle of an n-sided regular polygon is b. Find n.
360
= 30 (sum of exterior angles of polygon)
n
n = 12
I5.4 If the nth day of March in a year is Friday. The kth day of March in the same year is Wednesday,
where 20 < k < 25, find k.
k = 24
Sample Group Event

SG.1 If 2at2 + 12t + 9 = 0 has equal roots, find a.
(12)2 4(2a)(9) = 0
a=2
SG.2 If ax + by = 1 and 4x + 18y = 3 are parallel, find b.
2 4
=
b 18
b=9
SG.3 The b th prime number is p. Find p.
2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23, 29,
p = 23
4 sin + 3 cos
SG.4 If k = and tan = 3, find k.
2 sin cos
Reference: 1986 FG10.3, 1987 FG8.1, 1989 FG10.3, 1990 FG7.2
k=
(2 sin cos ) cos
4 tan + 3
=
2 tan 1
4(3) + 3
= =3
2(3) 1
Group Event 6
n(n 1)
Number of diagonals = C2n n = n = 20
2
n2 3n 40 = 0
(n 8)(n + 5) = 0
n=8
k
G6.2 Two dice are thrown. The probability of getting a total of n is . Find k.
36
Total = 8
Favourable outcomes = {(2, 6), (3, 5), (4, 4), (5, 3), (6, 2)}
5
P(total = 8) =
36
k=5
G6.3 A man drives at 25 km/h for 3 hours and then at 50 km/h for 2 hours.
His average speed for the whole journey is u km/h. Find u.
25 3 + 50 2
u= = 35
3+ 2
G6.4 If ab = ab + 1 and (2a)3 = 10, find a.
2a = 2a + 1
(2a)3 = (2a + 1)3 = 3(2a + 1) + 1 = 10
6a + 4 = 10
a=1
Group Event 7
In the attached calculation, different letters represent different integers G O L D E N
ranging from 1 to 9.
J
If the letters O and J represent 4 and 6 respectively, find
D E N G O L
G7.1 G.
G7.2 D. 1 4 L 8 E N
G7.3 L. 6
G7.4 E.
8 E N 1 4 L
Carry digit in the 100000 digit is 2
G = 1, D = 8
Carry digit in the hundreds digit is 3 1 4 2 8 5 7
E=5
6
Carry digit in the tens digit is 4
8 5 7 1 4 2
N = 7, L = 2
G = 1, D = 8, L = 2, E = 5
Group Event 8
14
G8.1 If y is the greatest value of , find y.
5 + 3 sin
2 5 + 3 sin 8
14 14 14

8 5 + 3 sin 2
y=7
G8.2 In the figure, 100 cos = k. Find k.
Hypotenuse = 25
k = 100 cos( 180) y
24
= 100 = 96
25
24
2
G8.3 When 3x + 4x + a is divided by x + 2, the remainder is 5. Find a.
3(2)2 + 4(2) + a = 5
a=1
1
G8.4 The solution for 3t2 5t 2 < 0 is < t < m. Find m.
3
(3t + 1)(t 2) < 0
1
<t<2
3
m=2
Group Event 9
G9.1 In the figure, BAC = 70 and FDE = x. Find x. A
AFC = 90 = ADC (given)
F E
ACDF is a cyclic quad (converse, s in the same seg.)
BDF = BAC = 70 (ext. , cyclic quad.) H
AEB = 90 = ADB (given)
ABDE is a cyclic quad (converse, s in the same seg.)
CDE = BAC = 70 (ext. , cyclic quad.) B D C
FDE = 180 BDF CDE (adj. s on st. line)
= 180 70 70 = 40
x = 40
G9.2 A cuboid is y cm wide, 6 cm long and 5 cm high. Its surface area is 126 cm2. Find y.
2(5y + 6y + 56) = 126
11y = 33
y=3
1
G9.3 If log9(log2 k) = , find k.
2
log2 k = 9 = 3
k = 23 = 8
G9.4 If a : b = 3 : 8, b : c = 5 : 6 and a : c = r : 16, find r.
a : b : c = 15 : 40 : 48
a : c = 15 : 48 = 5 : 16
r=5
Group Event 10
6 3
G10.1 If = 3 a + 6 , find a.
3 2 2 3
(
6 3 3 2 +2 3 )
= 3 a +6
18 12
3 6 +6 =3 a +6
a=6
G10.2 In the figure, find x.
Reference: 1994 FI4.3 9
By similar triangles 6
b
6 : 9 = a : (a + b) a 1
a = 2k, b = k x
x : 1 = (a + b) : b = 3 : 1
x=3
6 cos 2 + 2 sin cos + sin 2
cos 2 + sin cos + sin 2
(6 cos 2
)
+ 2 sin cos + sin 2 cos 2
k=
(cos 2
)
+ sin cos + sin 2 cos 2
6 + 2 tan + tan 2
=
1 + tan + tan 2
6 + 2(2 ) + 2 2
= =2
1 + 2 + 22
G10.4 If y =
( ) (
3 2k 4 2k 2 )
, find y.
2 k 2 k 1
y=
( ) (
3 2k 4 2k 2 )
2 k 2 k 1
3 1
= =4
1 12
Individual Events
SI a 900 I1 P 100 I2 k 4 I3 h 3 I4 a 18 I5 a 495
b 7 Q 8 m 58 k 6 r 3 b 2
9
p 2 R 50 a 2 m 4 M x 99
4
15
q 9 S 3 b 3 p w 1 Y 109
16
Group Events
SG p 75 G6 x 125 G7 M 5 G8 S 27 G9 p 60 G10 n 18
q 0.5 n 10 N 6 T 135 t 10 k 22
a 9 y 1000 a 8 A 9 K 43 t 96
168
m 14 K 1003 k 4 B 0 C 9 h
25
Find a.
a = 1080 180 = 900
a = 900 = 180(b 2)
b=7
SI.3 If 8b = p21, find p.
87 = p21
221 = p21
p=2
SI.4 If p = logq 81, find q.
2 = p = logq 81 and q > 0
q2 = 81
q=9
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If N(t) = 10018t and P = N(0), find P.
P = 100180 = 100
I1.2 A fox ate P grapes in 5 days, each day eating 6 more than on the previous day.
If he ate Q grapes on the first day, find Q.
Q + (Q + 6) + (Q + 12) + (Q + 18) + (Q + 24) = P = 100
5Q + 60 = 100
Q=8
25 1
I1.3 If Q% of is % of R, find R.
32 Q
25 8 1
= R
32 100 100 8
R = 50
50
I1.4 If one root of the equation 3x2 ax + R = 0 is and the other root is S, find S.
9
50 R 50
S = product of roots = =
9 3 3
S=3
Individual Event 2
a b 3 4
I2.1 If = ad bc and = k, find k.
c d 2 k
3k 8 = k
k=4
I2.2 If 50m = 542 k2, find m.
50m = 542 42 = (54 + 4)(54 4) = 5850
m = 58
I2.3 If (m + 6)a = 212, find a.
(58 + 6)a = 212
64a = 212
26a = 212
a=2
I2.4 A, B and C are the points (a, 5), (2, 3) and (4, b) respectively. If AB BC, find b.
A(2, 5), B(2, 3), C(4, b).
AB is parallel to y-axis
BC is parallel to x-axis
b=3
Individual Event 3
3 2 21 h
I3.1 If , find h.
2 7 3 25
3 2 7 3 2 21 h

2 7 3 2 7 3 25
2 21 3 2 21 h
h=3
I3.2 The given figure shows a circle of radius 2h cm, centre O. B

If AOB = , and the area of sector AOBP is k cm2, find k.
P
3 O A
2
2 3 k
1
2 3
k=6
I3.3 A can do a job in k days, B can do the same job in (k + 6) days.
If they work together, they can finish the job in m days. Find m.
1 1 1

m k k 6
1 1 1

m 6 12
m=4
I3.4 m coins are tossed. If the probability of obtaining at least one head is p, find p.
P(at least one head) = 1 P(all tail)
4
1 15
=1 =
2 16
Individual Event 4
t
I4.1 If f (t) = 2 , and f (a) = 4, find a.
3
a
f (a) = 2 = 4
3
a = 18
I4.2 If a + 9 = 12Q + r, where Q, r are integers and 0 < r < 12, find r.
18 + 9 = 27 = 122 + 3 = 12Q + r
r=3
I4.3 x, y are real numbers. If x + y = r and M is the maximum value of xy, find M.
x+y=3
y=3x
xy = x(3 x) = 3x x2 = (x 1.5)2 + 2.25
9
M = 2.25 =
4
8
I4.4 If w is a real number and 22w 2w M = 0, find w.
9
8 9
22w 2w = 0
9 4
(2 ) 2w 2 = 0
w 2
(2w + 1)(2w 2) = 0
w=1
Individual Event 5
177
I5.1 If 0.35 7 , find a.
a
3
0.35 7 = 0.05 7
10
3 57
=
10 990
297 57
=
990
354 59 177
= = =
990 165 495
177
=
a
a = 495
I5.2 If tan2 a + 1 = b, find b.
b = tan2 495 + 1
= tan2(1803 45) + 1
=1+1=2
I5.3 In the figure, AB AD, BAC = 26 + b, BCD = 106. B
If ABC = x, find x.
1
BCA = DCA = BCD = 53 (eq. chords eq. s) C
2
BAC = 28 A
x = ABC = 180 28 53 = 99 (s sum of )
x = 99
D
m p 3 x
I5.4 If h k hm kn hp kq and 1 2 11 Y , find Y.
n q 4 5
1 3 2 4 x 2 5 11 Y
Y = 109
Sample Group Event (1984 Group Event 7)

SG.1 The acute angle between the 2 hands of a clock at 3:30 p.m. is p. Find p.
1 1
12 2
p = 180 90 15 = 75
SG.2 In ABC, B C p. If q sin A, find q.
B C 75, A 180 75 75 = 30
1
q = sin 30 =
2
SG.3 The 3 points (1, 3), (2, 5), (4, a) are collinear. Find a.
95 a 3
=2
4 2 4 1
a=9
SG.4 The average of 7, 9, x, y,17 is 10. If the average of x +3, x +5, y + 2, 8 and y + 18 is m, find m.
7 9 x y 17
= 10
5
x + y = 17
x 3 x 5 y 2 8 y 18
m=
5
2 x y 36
=
5
= 14
Group Event 6
G6.1 In the figure, the bisectors of B and C meet at I. A
If A = 70 and BIC = x, find x.
Let ABI = b = CBI, ACI = c = BCI
2b + 2c + 70 = 180 (s sum of ) I
b + c = 55
In BCI, b + c + x = 180 (s sum of ) B C
x = 180 55 = 125
G6.2 A convex n-sided polygon has 35 diagonals. Find n.
C2n n 35
nn 3
35
2
n2 3n 70 = 0
(n 10)(n + 7) = 0
n = 10
G6.3 If y = ab a + b 1 and a 49, b 21, find y.
y = (a + 1)(b 1) = (49 + 1)(21 1) = 5020 = 1000
G6.4 If K = 1 + 2 3 4 + 5 + 6 7 8 + + 1001 + 1002, find K.
K = 1 + (2 3 4 + 5) + (6 7 8 + 9) + + (998 999 1000 + 1001) + 1002 = 1003
Group Event 7 (Similar Questions 1985 FG8.1-2, 1990 FG7.3-4)

M, N are positive integers less than 10 and 8M420852 9 N9889788 11.
G7.1 Find M.
8M420852 is divisible by 11
8 + 4 + 0 + 5 (M + 2 + 8 + 2) is divisible by 11
5 M = 11k
M=5
G7.2 Find N.
N9889788 is divisible by 9
N + 9 + 8 + 8 + 9 + 7 + 8 + 8 = 9t
N=6
x y
G7.3 The equation of the line through (4, 3) and (12, 3) is 1 . Find a.
a b
y 3 3 3

x4 4 12
3x 12 + 4y 12 = 0
3x + 4y = 24
x y
1
8 6
a=8
G7.4 If x + k is a factor of 3x2 + 14x + a, find k. (k is an integer.)
3(k)2 + 14(k) + 8 = 0
3k2 14k + 8 = 0
(3k 2)(k 4) = 0
2
k = 4 (reject )
3
Group Event 8
3
G8.1 If log9 S = , find S.
2
3
S = 9 2 = 27
G8.2 If the lines x + 5y = 0 and Tx Sy = 0 are perpendicular to each other, find T.
1 T
1
5 27
T = 135
The 3-digit number AAA, where A 0, and the 6-digit number AAABBB satisfy the following
equality: AAA AAA + AAA = AAABBB.
G8.3 Find A.
A(111) A(111) + A(111) = A(111000) + B(111)
111A2 + A = 1000A + B
Consider the thousands digit: 9 < A2 81
A = 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
When A = 4: 11116 + 4 = 4000 + B (rejected)
When A = 5: 11125 + 5 = 5000 + B (rejected)
When A = 6: 11136 + 6 = 6000 + B (rejected)
When A = 7: 11149 + 7 = 7000 + B (rejected)
When A = 8: 11164 + 8 = 8000 + B (rejected)
When A = 9: 11181 + 9 = 9000 + B
A=9
G8.4 Find B.
B=0
Group Event 9
G9.1 The area of an equilateral triangle is 50 12 . If its perimeter is p, find p.
p
Each side =
3
2
1 p
sin 60 50 12 100 3
2 3
p = 60
G9.2 The average of q, y, z is 14. The average of q, y, z, t is 13. Find t.
q yz
= 14
3
q + y + z = 42
q y z t
13
4
42 t
= 13
4
t = 10
G9.3 If 7 24x 4x2 K + A(x + B)2, where K, A, B are constants, find K.
Reference: 1984 FI2.4, 1985 FG10.2, 1986 FG7.3, 1987 FSI.1
7 24x 4x2 4(x2 + 6x) + 7 4(x + 3)2 + 43
K = 43
34 n 9n 4
G9.4 If C = , find C.
27 2 n 2
34 n 32 n8
C= =9
36 n6
Group Event 10
G10.1 Each interior angle of an n-sided regular polygon is 160. Find n.
360
20
n
n = 18
th th
G10.2 The n day of May in a year is Friday. The k day of May in the same year is Tuesday, where
20 < k < 26. Find k.
18th May is Friday
22nd May is Tuesday
k = 22
In the figure, AD BC, BA CA, AB 7, BC 25, AD h A

and CAD = .

7 h
D
B C
25
G10.3 If 100 sin = t, find t.
AC2 + 72 = 252 (Pythagoras theorem)
AC = 24
ACD = 90 (s sum of )
ABC = (s sum of )
24
t = 100 sin = 100 = 96
25
G10.4 Find h.
1 1
Area of ABC = 7 24 25h
2 2
168
h=
25
Method 2
In ABD,
h = AB sin
24 168
=7 =
25 25
Individual Events
SI a 10 I1 A 380 I2 r 3 I3 x 30 I4 a 8 I5 a 1968
b 280 B 70 x 1 a 6 b 17 b 2
c 400 n 60 y 15 c 8 d 287 c 25
d 120 m 5 p 40 f(4) 63 K 280 d 95
Group Events
SG A 10 G6 p 60 G7 A 75 G8 A 2 G9 A 1 G10 A 20
B 4 k 100 B 3 B 52 B 0 B 30
C 900 N 9 C 2 N 5 C 8 C 2
D 18 M 999999 D 5 K 16 D 9 D 18

SI.1 If x2 8x + 26 (x + k)2 + a, find a.
Reference: 1984 FI2.4, 1985 FG10.2, 1986 FG7.3, 1988 FG9.3
x2 8x + 26 (x 4)2 + 26 16
a = 10
SI.2 If sin a = cos b, where 270 < b < 360, find b.
sin 10 = cos b
cos b = cos 80
b = 360 80 = 280
SI.3 X sold an article to Y for $b at a loss of 30%. If the cost price of the article for X is $c, find c.
c(1 30%) = 280
c = 400
SI.4 3c o
In the figure, O is the centre of the circle. If ACB = and
10
AOB = d, find d. O
ACB = 120 A B
reflex AOB = 240 ( at centre twice at ce)
AOB = 120 (s at a point) C
d = 120
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If A = 11 + 12 + 13 + + 29, find A.
A=
1
(11 + 29) 19 = 380
2
I1.2 If sin A = cos B, where 0 < B < 90, find B.
sin 380 = cos B
sin 20 = cos B
B = 70
I1.3 In the given figure, PQR = B, PRQ = 50. If QSR = n, find n. Q
PQR = 70
QPR = 60 (s sum of )
n = 60 (s in the same segment)
P R
S
I1.4 n cards are marked from 1 to n and one is drawn at random. If the chance of it being a
1
multiple of 5 is , find m.
m
Favourable outcome = {5, 10, , 60}
1 12 1
= =
m 60 5
m=5
Individual Event 2
I2.1 The volume of a sphere with radius r is 36, find r.
4 3
r = 36
3
r=3
I2.2 If rx + r1x = 4 and x > 0, find x.
3
3x + = 4 (It is straight forward by guessing x = 1)
3x
(3x)2 43x + 3 = 0
(3x 1)(3x 3) = 0
3x = 1 or 3
x = 0 (rejected, as x > 0) or 1
I2.3 In a : b = 5 : 4, b : c = 3 : x and a : c = y : 4, find y.
a : b : c = 15 : 12 : 4
a : c = 15 : 4
y = 15
I2.4 In the figure, AB is a diameter of the circle. APQ and RBQ Q
are straight lines.
y
If PAB = 35, PQB = y and RPB = p, find p. P
ABR = 35 + y = 50 (ext. of )
p
APR = ABR = 50 (s in the same segment) A 35
B
p + 50 = 90 ( in semi-circle)
p = 40
R
Individual Event 3
I3.1 In the figure, find x.
x + 20 + 2x + 10 + 2x = 180 (s sum of ) (2x + 10)
x = 30
(x + 20) 2x
I3.2 The coordinates of the points P and Q are (a, 2) and (x, 6) respectively.
If the coordinates of the mid-point of PQ is (18, b), find a.
1
(a + 30) = 18
2
a=6
I3.3 A man travels from X to Y at a uniform speed of a km/h and returns at a uniform speed of
2a km/h. If his average speed is c km/h, find c.
Let the distance between X and Y be s km.
2s 2
c= s s =1 1 =8
a + 2a 6
+ 12
I3.4 If f (y) = 2y2 + cy 1, find f (4).
f (4) = 2(4)2 + 8(4) 1 = 63
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If the curve y = 2x2 8x + a touches the x-axis, find a.
= (8)2 4(2)a = 0
a=8
I4.2 In the figure, AB is a diameter of the circle.
If AC = 15, BC = a and AB = b, find b.
ACB = 90 ( in semi-circle)
b2 = 152 + 82 (Pythagoras theorem) A
b
B
b = 17
a
15
C
I4.3 The line 5x + by + 2 = d passes through (40, 5). Find d.
d = 5(40) + 17(5) + 2 = 287
I4.4 X sold an article to Y for $d at a profit of 2.5%.
If the cost price of the article for X is $K, find K.
K = 287(1 + 2.5%) = 280
Individual Event 5
a
I5.1 Let x = 19.8& 7& . If 19.8& 7& = , find a. (Hint: 99x = 100 x x)
99
99x = 100 x x = 1987 + 0.8& 7& 19. 8& 7& = 1968
1968
x=
99
a = 1968
I5.2 If f (y) = 4 sin y and f (a 18) = b, find b.
b = f (a 18) = f (1950)
= 4 sin 1950
= 4 sin(3605 + 150)
= 4 sin 150 = 2
3 2 21 + 3
I5.3 If = , find c.
b 7 3 c
3 2 7 + 3 2 21 + 3
=
2 7 3 2 7+ 3 c
c = 4(7) 3 = 25
I5.4 In the figure, ST is a tangent to the circle at P. M
If MQP = 70, QPT = c and MRQ = d, find d. R
d
MRP = 70 (s in the same segment)
PRQ = c = 25 ( in alt. segment) 70 Q
c
d = 70 + 25 = 95 S
P
T
Sample Group Event

SG.1 If 100A = 352 152, find A.
100A = (35 15)(35 + 15) = 1000
A = 10
SG.2 If (A 1)6 = 27B, find B.
(10 1)6 = 27B
312 = 33B
B=4
SG.3 In the given diagram, the sum of the three marked angles is C. Find C.
Reference: 1984 FSI.1, 1989 FSI.1
C = 1080 180 = 900
SG.4 If the lines x + 2y + 1 = 0 and 9x + Dy + 1 = 0 are parallel, find D.
1 9
=
2 D
D = 18
Group Event 6
G6.1 If , are the roots of x2 10x + 20 = 0, and p = 2 + 2, find p.
+ = 10, = 20
p = ( + )2 2
= 102 2(20) = 60
G6.2 The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is p. If its area is k 3 , find k.
Length of one side = 20
1
202 sin 60o = k 3
2
k = 100
G6.3 Each interior angle of an N-sided regular polygon is 140. Find N.
360o
= 40 (sum of ext. s of polygon)
N
N=9
G6.4 If M = (102 + 101 + 12)(102 12)(102 101 + 12), find M.
M = (102 + 101 + 12)(10 1)(10 + 1)(102 101 + 12)
= (103 1)(103 + 1)
= 106 1 = 999999
Group Event 7
G7.1 The acute angle formed by the hands of a clock at 3:30 p.m. is A. Find A.
Reference 1984 FG7.1, 1985 FI3.1, 1989 FI1.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
1 1
12 2
A = 180 90 15 = 75
G7.2 If tan(3A + 15) = B , find B.
tan(225 + 15) = B
B=3
G7.3 If log10AB = C log1015, find C.
log10 (753) = C log10 15
log10 225 = C log10 15
C=2
G7.4 The points (1, 3), (4, 9) and (2, D) are collinear. Find D.
D9 93
=
2 4 4 1
D 9 = 4
D=5
Group Event 8
5 sin + 4 cos
G8.1 If A = and tan = 2, find A.
3 sin + cos
A=
(3 sin + cos ) cos
5 tan + 4
=
3 tan + 1
5(2 ) + 4
= =2
3(2 ) + 1
1 1
G8.2 If x + = 2A, and x 3 + 3 = B, find B.
x x
Reference: 1983 FG7.3, 1984 FG10.2, 1985 FI1.2, 1989 HI1, 1990 HI12, 2002 FG2.2
1
x+ = 4
x
1
x2 + 2
= 42 2 = 14
x
1
B = x3 +
x3
1 1
= x + x 2 1 + 2
x x
= 4(14 1) = 52
G8.3 There are exactly N values of satisfying the equation cos3 cos = 0, where 0 360.
Find N.
cos (cos + 1)(cos 1) = 0
cos = 0, 1 or 1
= 90, 270, 180, 0, 360
N=5
G8.4 If the Nth day of May in a year is Thursday and the Kth day of May in the same year is Monday,
where 10 < K < 20, find K.
5th May is Thursday
9th May is Monday
16th May is Monday
K = 16
Group Event 9
In the given multiplication, different letters represent different integers ranging A B C D
from 0 to 9. 9
G9.1 Find A. D C B A
G9.2 Find B.
1 B C 9
G9.3 Find C.
G9.4 Find D. 9
Reference: 1994 HI6 9 C B 1
As there is no carry digit in the thousands digit multiplication, A = 1, D = 9
Consider the tens digit: 9C + 8 B (mod 10) (1)
As there is no carry digit in the thousands digit, let the carry digit in the
hundreds digit be x.
9B + x = C and B, C are distinct integers different from 1 and 9
B = 0, C = x
Sub. B = 0 into (1): 9C + 8 0 (mod 10)
9C 2 (mod 10)
C=8
A = 1, B = 0, C = 8, D = 9
Group Event 10
G10.1 The average of p, q, r and s is 5. The average of p, q, r, s and A is 8. Find A.
p + q + r + s = 20
p + q + r + s + A = 40
A = 20
G10.2 If the lines 3x 2y + 1 = 0 and Ax + By + 1 = 0 are perpendicular, find B.
3 20
= 1 B = 30
2 B
G10.3 When Cx3 3x2 + x 1 is divided by x + 1, the remainder is 7. Find C.
C(1) 3 1 1 = 7
C=2
G10.4 If P, Q are positive integers such that P + Q + PQ = 90 and D = P + Q, find D.
(Hint: Factorise 1 + P + Q + PQ)
WLOG assume P Q, 1 + P + Q + PQ = 91
(1 + P)(1 + Q) = 191 = 713
1 + P = 1 P = 0 (rejected)
or 1 + P = 7 P = 6
1 + Q = 13 Q = 12
D = 6 + 12 = 18
Individual Events
SI a 1080 I1 a 6 I2 h 4 I3 m 2900 I4 n 39 I5 a 36
b 8 b 2 k 32 x 12 m 78 b 48
c 3 c 7 p 3 y 12.5 p 4 p 4
d 64 d 16 *q 16 n 34.5 q 7 q 6
see the remark
Group Events
SG a 2 G6 p 7 G7 r 2 G8 A 4 G9 C 93 G10 P 10
b 3 q 5 s 7 B 2 n 6 x 9
p 60 r 96 a 5 C 8 S 5000 k 2
1 11
q 136 t 18 p = 0.5 D 5 d 17 S
2 20

SI.1 In the given figure, the sum of the four marked angles is a. Find a.
Sum of interior angles of a quadrilateral = 360
angle sum of four vertices = 4360 = 1440
a = 1440 360 = 1080
180(b 2) = 1080 = 1806
b=8
SI.3 If b5 = 32c, find c.
85 = 32c 215 = 25c
c=3
SI.4 If c = log4 d, find d.
3 = log4 d
d = 43 = 64
Individual Event 1
I1.1 The given figure shows a circle of radius 18 cm, centre O. B
P
If AOB = and the length of arc APB is a cm, find a.
3
O A
a = 18
3
a=6
I1.2 If the solution of the inequality 2x2 ax + 4 < 0 is 1 < x < b, find b.
2x2 6x + 4 < 0
2(x2 3x + 2) < 0
2(x 1)(x 2) < 0
1<x<2
b=2
I1.3 If b(2x 5) + x + 3 5x c, find c.
2(2x 5) + x + 3 5x c
c=7
I1.4 The line through (2, 6) and (5, c) cuts the x-axis at (d, 0). Find d.
They have the same slope
06 76
=
d 2 52
d 2 = 18
d = 16
Individual Event 2
h
I2.1 If the equation 3x2 4x + = 0 has equal roots, find h.
3
= ( 4 ) 4(3) = 0
2 h
3
h=4
I2.2 If the height of a cylinder is doubled and the new radius is h times the original, then the new
Let the original radius be r, the original height be p. Then the new radius is 4r, the new height
is 2p.
(4r)2(2p) = kr2p
k = 32
I2.3 If log10210 + log10k log1056 + log1040 log10120 + log1025 = p, find p.
210 32 40 25
p = log10
56 120
= log10(10425)
=3
p cos A q
I2.4 If sin A = and = , find q.
5 tan A 15
3
sin A =
5
cos A q
=
tan A 15
cos 2 A q
=
sin A 15
1 sin 2 A 1 ( 53 ) 16 q
2
= 3
= =
sin A 5 15 15
q = 16
Remark: A type-writing mistake is found in the original version:
p cos A q
If sin A = and = , find q.
3 tan A 15
p
Using the given condition: sin A = = 1
3
We arrives at the conclusion that A = 180n + 90, where n is an integer.
cos A
So that will be undefined because the denominator becomes undefined.
tan A
As HKMO 1990 Final Sample Individual Event is the same as HKMO 1986 Final Individual
Event, the error is found and corrected.
Individual Event 3
I3.1 The monthly salaries of 100 employees in a company are as shown:
Sa1aries ($) 6000 4000 2500
No. of employees 5 15 80
If the mean salary is $m, find m.
6000 5 + 4000 15 + 2500 80
m=
5 + 15 + 80
290000
= = 2900
100
I3.2 If 8 sin2(m + 10) + 12 cos2(m + 25) = x, find x.
x = 8 sin2 3000 + 12 cos2 2925
= 8 sin2(3608 +120) + 12 cos2(3608 + 45)
2
3
2
= 8 sin 120 + 12 cos 45 = 8

2 2
+ 12 1 = 12
2
2
I3.3 In the figure, AP // CR // BQ, AC = x, CB = 12, AP = 10, B
12
BQ = 15 and CR = y. Find y. C
Reference: 1991 FI5.3 x
15
Draw ADE // PRQ, cutting CR at D, BQ at E respectively. A
APRD, APQE are //-grams y
10
DR = 10 = EQ (opp. sides, //-gram)
CD = y 10, BE = 15 10 = 5
ACD ~ ABE (equiangular) P R Q
(y 10) : 12 = 5 : 24 (ratio of sides, ~s)
y = 12.5 B
C 12
12 y - 10 5
A
E
D 15
10 y
P R Q
I3.4 Define (a, b, c)(p, q, r) = ap + bq + cr, where a, b, c, p, q, r are real numbers.

If (3, 4, 5)(y, 2, 1) = n, find n.
n = 3y 8 + 5
= 3(12.5) 3
= 34.5
Individual Event 4
1 = 12
1 + 3 = 2 2
I4.1 It is known that . If 1 + 3 + 5 + + n = 202, find n.
1 + 3 + 5 = 3 2
1 + 3 + 5 + 7 = 4 2
1 + 3 + 5 + + (2m 1) = m2 = 202
m = 20
n = 2(20) 1 = 39
I4.2 If the lines x + 2y = 3 and nx + my = 4 are parallel, find m.
1 n
=
2 m
1 39
=
2 m
m = 78
I4.3 If a number is selected from the whole numbers 1 to m, and if each number has an equal
p
chance of being selected, the probability that the number is a factor of m is , find p.
39
Let S be the sample space, n(S) = 78
Favourable outcomes = {1, 2, 3, 6, 13, 26, 39, 78}
p 8
=
39 78
p=4
I4.4 A boy walks from home to school at a speed of p km/h and returns home along the same route
24
at a speed of 3 km/h. If the average speed for the double journey is km/h, find q.
q
Let the distance of the single journey be x km.
24 2x
= x x
q 4
+3
24 24
=
q 7
q=7
Individual Event 5
a
I5.1 A die is rolled. If the probability of getting a prime number is , find a.
72
Favourable outcomes = {2, 3, 5}
a 3
= a = 36
72 6
I5.2 In the figure, x = a, y = 44, z = 52 and w = b. Find b.
x + w + y + z = 180 (s in the same segment, s sum of ) x
36 + b + 44 + 52 = 180 w
b = 48
z y
I5.3 A, B are two towns b km apart. Peter cycles at a speed of 7 km/h from A to B and at the same
time John cycles from B to A at a speed of 5 km/h. If they meet after p hours, find p.
p = 48(5 + 7) = 4
I5.4 The base of a pyramid is a triangle with sides 3 cm, p cm and 5 cm. If the height and volume
of the pyramid are q cm and 12 cm3 respectively, find q.
32 + 42 = 52 the triangle is a right-angled triangle (Converse, Pythagoras theorem)
1
Base area = 34 cm2 = 6 cm2
2
1
Volume = 6q cm3 = 12 cm3 q = 6
3
Sample Group Event

Reference: 1983 FG6.3, 1984 FSG.1, 1985 FSI.1
x + y = 50 and xy = 25
1 1 x+ y
a= + = =2
x y xy
Reference: 1983 FG9.3, 1984 FSG.3, 1985 FI4.1, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
a b
= 1 b = 3
2 3
Reference: 1984FI4.4, 1985 FSI.4, 1987 FG6.2, 1988 FG9.1
p
Each side = cm
3
2
1 p
sin 60o = 100 3
2 3
p = 60
(2)3 2(2)2 + 60(2) + q = 0
q = 136
Group Event 6
G6.1 If 123456789 = a10p where p is a positive integer and 1 a < 10, find p.
123456789 = 1.2345104 6.789103 = a107,
where a = 1.23456.789
1.26.8 = 8.16
1 a < 10
p=7
G6.2 If (p, q), (5, 3) and (1, 1) are collinear, find q.
q 3 3 ( 1)
=
75 5 1
q3=2
q=5
7
G6.3 If tan = , 90 < < 180 and 100 cos = r, find r.
24
In the figure, r2 = 72 + (24)2 (Pythagoras theorem)
P(7, -24)
r = 25 2
r
r = 100 cos 7
24
= 100 N -24 O
25
= 96
G6.4 The average of x, y, z is 10. The average of x, y, z, t is 12. Find t.
x + y + z = 30
x + y + z + t = 48
t = 18
Group Event 7
G7.1 In the figure, QR, RP, PQ are 3 arcs, centres at A, B, C C
respectively, touching one another at R, P, Q. If AR = r, RB = 6,
4
QC = 4, A = 90 , find r. P

Q
AQ = r, CP = 4, BP = 6
AB = r + 6, AC = r + 4, BC = 4 + 6 = 10 6
B
AB2 + AC2 = BC2 A r R
(r + 6)2 + (r + 4)2 = 102
2r2 + 20r 48 = 0
r2 + 10r 24 = 0
(r 2)(r + 12) = 0
r=2
G7.2 M, N are the points (3, 2) and (9, 5) respectively.
If P(s, t) is a point on MN such that MP : PN = 4 : r, find s.
MP : PN = 4 : 2 = 2 : 1
3 1 + 9 2
s= =7
2 +1
G7.3 x2 + 10x + t (x + a)2 + k, where t, a, k are constants. Find a.
x2 + 10x + t (x + 5)2 + t 25
a=5
G7.4 If 9p+2 = 240 + 9p, find p.
819p = 240 + 9p
809p = 240
9p = 3
1
p=
2
Group Event 8
In the given multiplication, different letters represent different integers 1 A B C D E
whose possible values are 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. (Reference: 2000 HI8)
3
G8.1 Find A.
G8.2 Find B. A B C D E 1
G8.3 Find C. 1 A B C D 7
G8.4 Find D.
3
E = 7 and the carry digit is 20. A B C D 7 1
3D + 2 7 (mod 10) 1 A B C 5 7
D = 5 and the carry digit is 10
3
A B C 5 7 1
3C + 1 5 (mod 10) 1 A B 8 5 7
C = 8 and the carry digit is 20.
3
A B 8 5 7 1
3B + 2 8 (mod 10) 1 A 2 8 5 7
B = 2 and there is no carry digit.
3
A 2 8 5 7 1
3A 2 (mod 10) 1 4 2 8 5 7
A = 4 and the carry digit is 10.
3
3+1=4
A = 4, B = 2, C = 8, D = 5 4 2 8 5 7 1
Group Event 9
G9.1 7 oranges and 5 apples cost $13. 3 oranges and 4 apples cost $8. 37 oranges and 45 apples
cost $C. Find C.
Let the cost of an orange be $x and the cost of an apple be $y.
7x + 5y = 13 (1)
3x + 4y = 8 (2)
12
4(1) 5(2): 13x = 12 x =
13
17
7(2) 3(1): 13y = 17 y =
13
12 37 + 17 45
C = 37x + 45y = = 93
13
G9.2 There are exactly n values of satisfying the equation (sin2 1)(2 sin2 1) = 0,
where 0 360. Find n.
1
sin = 1,
2
= 90, 270, 45, 135, 225, 315
n=6
G9.3 If S = ab + a b 1 and a = 101, b = 49, find S.
S = (a 1)(b + 1) = 10050 = 5000
G9.4 If d is the distance between the points (13, 5) and (5, 10), find d.
d= (13 5)2 + [5 ( 10)]2 = 17
Group Event 10
G10.1 If b + c = 3 (1), c + a = 6 (2), a + b = 7 (3) and P = abc, find P.
(1) + (2) (3): 2c = 2 c = 1
(1) + (3) (2): 2b = 4 b = 2
(2) + (3) (1): 2a = 10 a = 5
P = 125 = 10
G10.2 The medians AL, BM, CN of ABC meet at G. If the A
area of ABC is 54 cm2 and the area of ANG is x cm2.
Find x.
N M
1
QBL : LC = 1 : 1 area of ABL = 54 cm2 = 27 cm2
2 G
2
QAG : GL = 2 : 1 area of ABG = 27cm2 = 18 cm2 B L
C
3
1
QAN : NB = 1 : 1 area of ANG = 18 cm2 = 9 cm2
2
x=9
3 sin + 5 cos
2 sin + cos
k=
(3sin + 5 cos ) cos
(2 sin + cos ) cos
3 tan + 5
=
2 tan + 1
3 3 + 5
= =2
23 +1
1 1 1 1
G10.4 If S = 1 2
1 2 1 2 L1 2 , find S.
2 3 4 10
Reference: 1999 FIS.4, 2014 FG3.1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
S = 1 1 1 L1 1 + 1 + 1 + L1 +
2 3 4 10 2 3 4 10
1 2 3 9 3 4 5 11
= L L
2 3 4 10 2 3 4 10
1 11 11
= =
10 2 20
Individual Events
SI a 2 I1 a 5 I2 a 125 I3 a 4 I4 a 2 I5 t 8
b 54 b 0 b 15 b 16 b 10 u 135
c 2 c 9 c 3 c 199 c 96 v 45
d 1 d 2 d 16 d 4 d 95 w 70
Group Events
SG s 19 G6 x 8 G7 M 100 G8 M 5 G9 A 60 G10 k 15
n 8 y 25 N 59 N 2 r 3 C 6
1 24
K d 4 x x 170 n 20 R 8
50 5
12
A 200 h S 1 y 5000 x 3240 A 243
5
SI.1 The sum of two numbers is 40, and their product is 20.
Reference: 1983 FG6.3, 1984 FSG.1, 1986 FSG.1
x + y = 40 and xy = 20
1 1 x+ y
a= + = =2
x y xy
SI.2 If b cm2 is the total surface area of a cube of side (a + 1) cm, find b.
Similar Questions: 1984 FI3.2, 1984 FG9.2
a+1=3
b = 632 = 54
SI.3 One ball is taken at random from a bag containing b 4 white balls and b + 46 red balls.
c
If is the probability that the ball is white, find c.
6
There are b 4 = 50 white balls and b + 46 = 100 red balls
50 2
P(white ball) = = c=2
50 + 100 6
Reference: 1984FI4.4, 1986 FSG.3, 1987 FG6.2, 1988 FG9.1
1
d 3 = c 2 sin 60o = 3
2
d=1
Individual Event 1
I1.1 Find a if a = log 5
(125)(625) .
25
5 53 4
a = log5 = log5 55
52
a=5
2
1 1
I1.2 If r + = a 2 and r 3 + 3 = b, find b.
r r
2
1 1 1
r + = r + 2 + 2 = 3 r + 2 = 1
2 2
r r r
1 1 1 1
b = r 3 + 3 = r + r 2 1 + 2 = r + (1 1) = 0
r r r r
3
I1.3 If one root of the equation x + cx + 10 = b is 2, find c.
Put x = 2 into the equation: 8 + 2c + 10 = 0
c = 9
I1.4 Find d if 9d+2 = (6489 + c) + 9d. (Reference: 1986 FG7.4)
819d = 6480 + 9d
809d = 6480 9d = 81
d=2
Individual Event 2
I2.1 Find a in the following sequence: 1, 8, 27, 64, a, 216,
13, 23, 33, 43, a, 63,
a = 53 = 125
I2.2 In Figure 1, AC = CD and CAB ABC = (a 95). C
If BAD = b, find b. (Reference: 2010 HG3)
Let CAD = = CDA (base s isosceles )
CAB = b + D
CAB ABC = 30 ABC = b + 30
BAD + ABC = CDA (ext. of )
A B
b + b + 30 = b = 15
I2.3 A line passes through the points (1, 1) and (3, b 6). If the y-intercept of the line is c, find c.
b6=9
c9 9 1
=
0 3 3 ( 1)
c=3
I2.4 In Figure 2, AB = c + 17, BC = 100, CD = 80. D
If EF = d, find d. (Reference: 1989 HG8, 1990 FG6.4)
Let BF = x, then FC = 100 x. A
BEF ~ BDC (equiangular)
CEF ~ CAB (equiangular) E
x 100 100 x 100
= (1), = (2)
d 80 d 3 + 17
100 1 1 B C
(1) + (2): = 100 + d = 16 F
d 80 20
Individual Event 3
o
1
I3.1 The acute angle formed by the hands of a clock at 2:15 is 18 + a . Find a.
2
Reference: 1984 FG7.1, 1987 FG7.1, 1989 FI1.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
1 1
From 2:00 to 2:15, the hour-hand had moved 360 = 7.5
12 4
The minute hand had moved 90
18.5 + a = 90 (60 + 7.5) = 22.5
a=4
I3.2 If the sum of the coefficients in the expansion of (x + y)a is b, find b.
Put x = 1 and y = 1, then b = (1 + 1)4 = 16
I3.3 If f (x) = x 2, F(x, y) = y2 + x and c = F(3, f(b)), find c.
Reference: 1990 HI3, 2013 FI3.2, 2015 FI4.3
f (b) = 16 2
= 14
c = F(3, 14)
= 142 + 3
= 199
I3.4 x, y are real numbers. If x + y = c 195 and d is the maximum value of xy, find d.
x+y=4
y=4x
xy = x(4 x) = (x 2)2 + 4 d
d=4
Individual Event 4
I4.1 If the lines x + 2y + 3 = 0 and 4x ay + 5 = 0 are perpendicular to each other, find a.
Reference: 1983 FG9.3, 1984 FSG.3, 1986 FSG.2, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
1 4
= 1
2 a
a=2
I4.2 In Figure 1, ABCD is a trapezium with AB parallel to DC and D
ABC = DCB = 90. If AB = a, BC = CD = 8 and b
AD = b, find b. A 8
Draw a line segment AE // BC, cutting DC at E.
BAE = 90 = AEC (int. s, AE // BC) a
ABCE is a rectangle
AE = 8, CE = a = 2 (opp. sides, //-gram) B 8 C
DE = 8 a = 6 D
b2 = 82 + 62 = 100 (Pythagoras theorem on ADE)
b = 10
b 8
A E
a
B C
8
A
b
I4.3 In Figure 2, BD = , DE = 4, EC = 3. If the area of AEC is 24
2
and the area of ABC is c, find c.
ABD, ADE and ACE have the same height.
5+4+3 B
D E
The area of ABC = c = 24 = 96 C
3
I4.4 If 3x3 2x2 + dx c is divisible by x 1, find d.
3 2 + d 96 = 0
d = 95
Individual Event 5
I5.1 If 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + + t = 36, find t.
1
t(t + 1) = 36
2
t = 8 or 9 (rejected)
2
I5.2 If sin u = and 90 < u < 180, find u.
t
1
sin u =
2
u = 135
I5.3 In Figure 1, ABC = 30 and AC = (u 90) cm. A
If the radius of the circumcircle of ABC is v cm, find v.
135 90 (u 90) cm
= 2v (Sine formula)
sin 30o
v = 45
B C
I5.4 In Figure 2, PAB is formed by the 3 tangents of the circle
R
with centre O. If APB = (v 5) and AOB = w, find w.
B
APB = 40
O
OT PA, OS AB, OR PB (tangent radius)
ROT = 360 4090 90 = 140 (s sum of polygon) S
P A T
ROB = SOB, TOA = SOA (tangent from ext. pt.)
AOB = 140 2 = 70
w = 70

SG.1 If a*b = ab + 1, and s = (2*4)*2, find s.
2*4 = 24 + 1 = 9
s = (2*4)*2 = 9*2
= 92 + 1 = 19
SG.2 If the nth prime number is s, find n.
2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19
n=8
1 1 1 1
SG.3 If K = 1 1 1 L1 , find K in the simplest fractional form.
2 3 4 50
Reference: 1984 FG9.1, 1986 FG10.4
1 2 3 49 1
K = L =
2 3 4 50 50
SG.4 If A is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of radius 10, find A.
E D
Reference: 1984 FG10.1, 1989 FI3.3
10 O
BC = 20 cos 45 = 10 2
( )2
45
A = 10 2 = 200 B C
Group Event 6
G6.1 The average of p, q, r is 4. The average of p, q, r, x is 5. Find x.
p + q + r = 12
p + q + r + x = 20
x=8
G6.2 A wheel of a truck travelling at 60 km/h makes 4 revolutions per second.
y
If its diameter is m, find y.
6
60000 50
60 km/h = m/s = m/s
3600 3
y 50
4 =
6 3
y = 25
d
G6.3 If sin(55 y) = , find d.
x
d 1
sin 30 = =
8 2
d=4
G6.4 In the figure, BA AC and AN BC. If AB = 3, AC = d,
A
AN = h, find h.
Reference: 1992 FI5.3 d
3
h
BC2 = 32 + 42 (Pythagoras theorem)
BC = 5
B N C
1 1
Area of ABC = 5h = 34
2 2
12
h=
5
Group Event 7
783 + 22 3
G7.1 Let M = . Find M.
78 2 78 22 + 22 2
Similar questions: 1984 FG6.1
783 + 22 3
M=
78 2 78 22 + 22 2
=
(78 + 22)(782 78 22 + 222 )
782 78 22 + 22 2
= 100
G7.2 When the positive integer N is divided by 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2, the remainders are 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1
respectively. Find the least value of N.
N + 1 is divisible by 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2.
The L.C.M. of 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2 is 60.
The least value of N is 59.
G7.3 A man travels 10 km at a speed of 4 km/h and another 10 km at a speed of 6 km/h. If the
average speed of the whole journey is x km/h, find x.
20 24
x = 10 10 =
4
+ 6 5
G7.4 If S = 1 + 2 3 4 + 5 + 6 7 8 + + 1985, find S.
S = 1 + (2 3 4 + 5) + (6 7 8 + 9) + + (1982 1983 1984 + 1985) = 1
Group Event 8
M, N are positive integers less than 10 and 258024M8 9 = 2111110N 11.

G8.1 Find M.
11 and 9 are relatively prime 258024M8 is divisible by 11
2 + 8 + 2 + M (5 + 0 + 4 + 8) is divisible by 11
M 5 = 11k
M=5
G8.2 Find N.
2111110N is divisible by 9
2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + N = 9t
N=2
G8.3 A convex 20-sided polygon has x diagonals. Find x.
x = C220 20
20 19
= 20
2
= 170
G8.4 If y = ab + a + b + 1 and a = 99, b = 49, find y.

y = (a + 1)(b + 1)
= (99 + 1)(49 + 1)
= 5000
Group Event 9
G9.1 The lengths of the 3 sides of LMN are 8, 15 and 17 respectively.
If the area of LMN is A, find A.
82 + 152 = 64 + 225 = 289 = 172
LMN is a right-angled triangle
8 15
A= = 60
2
G9.2 If r is the length of the radius of the circle inscribed in N
LMN, find r. E
Reference: 1989 HG9 17
r 8
Let O be the centre and the radius of the circle be r, which O r D
r
touches the triangle at C, D and E.
L 15 C M
OC LM, OD MN, OE LN (tangent radius)
ODMC is a rectangle (which consists of 3 right angles)
OC = r = OD (radii)
OCMD is a square.
CM = MD = r (opp. sides, rectangle)
LC = 15 r, ND = 8 r
LE = LC = 15 r, NE = ND = 8 r (tangent from ext. pt.)
LE + NE = LN
15 r + 8 r = 17
r=3
G9.3 If the rth day of May in a year is Friday and the nth day of May in the same year is Monday,
where 15 < n < 25, find n.
3rd May is Friday
17th May is Friday
20th May is Monday
n = 20
G9.4 If the sum of the interior angles of an n-sided convex polygon is x, find x.
x = 180(20 2) = 3240 (s sum of polygon)
Group Event 10
G10.1 The sum of 3 consecutive odd integers (the smallest being k) is 51. Find k.
k + k + 2 + k + 4 = 51
k = 15
G10.2 If x + 6x + k (x + a) + C, where a, C are constants, find C.
2 2

x2 + 6x + 15 (x + 3)2 + 6
C=6
p q r p
G10.3 If = = = 2 and R = , find R.
q r s s
p
R=
s
p q r
=
q r s
= 23 = 8
3n 9 n +1
G10.4 If A = , find A.
27 n 1
3n 9 n +1
A=
27 n 1
3n 32 n + 2
=
33n 3
= 36 = 243
Individual Events
1
SI a 900 I1 a 10 I2 a (=0.5) I3 a 7 I4 a 15 I5 a 80
2
b 7 b 1 b 5 b 6 b 8 b 4
1
c 2 c 4 c 10 x (=0.5) c 4 N 10
2
d 9 d 5 d 15 y 1 d 12 x 144
Group Events
1
SG a 2 G6 p 10 G7 p 75 G8 M 1 G9 x G10 A 50
100
*136 1
b q 15 q (=0.5) N 6 A 52 S 2
see the remark
2
c 6 r 24 a 2 R 8 m 501 n 7
d 7 s 27 m 14 Y 2 P 36 d 5
SI.1 In the given diagram, the sum of the three marked angles is a. Find a.
Reference: 1987 FSG.3, 1989 FSI.1
a = 1080 180 = 900
a = 900 = 180(b 2)
b=7
SI.3 If 8b = c21, find c.
87 = c21
221 = c21
c=2
2 = c = logd 81 and d > 0
d2 = 81
d=9
Individual Event 1
I1.1 If 100a = 352 152, find a.
100a = (35 + 15)(35 15) = 5020 = 1000
a = 10
I1.2 If (a 1)2 = 34b, find b.
92 = 34b
4b = 4
b=1
I1.3 If b is a root of x2 + cx 5 = 0, find c.
Put x = 1 into the equation: 1 + c 5 = 0
c=4
I1.4 If x + c is a factor of 2x2 + 3x + 4d, find d.
x + 4 is a factor
d = 5
Individual Event 2
1 1
I2.1 If , are roots of x2 10x + 20 = 0, find a, where a = .

+ = 10, = 20
1 1 10 1
a= = = =
20 2
I2.2 If sin = a (0 < < 90), and 10 cos 2 = b, find b.
1
sin =
2
= 30
b = 10 cos 60 = 5
I2.3 The point A(b, c) lies on the line 2y = x + 15. Find c.
Put x = b = 5, y = c into the line: 2c = 5 + 15
c = 10
I2.4 If x2 cx + 40 (x + k)2 + d, find d.
Reference: 1985 FG10.2, 1986 FG7.3, 1987 FSI.1, 1988 FG9.3
x2 10x + 40 (x 5)2 + 15
k = 5, d = 15
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a is the remainder when 2x3 3x2 + x 1 is divided by x + 1, find a.
a = 2(1)3 3(1)2 1 1 = 7
I3.2 If b cm2 is the total surface area of a cube of side (8 + a) cm, find b.
Similar Questions: 1984 FG9.2, 1985 FSI.2
8+a=1
b=6
I3.3 One ball is taken at random from a bag containing b + 4 red balls and 2b 2 white balls.
If x is the probability that the ball is white, find x.
There are b + 4 = 10 red balls and 2b 2 = 10 white balls
1
x=
2
I3.4 If sin = x (90 < < 180) and tan( 15) = y, find y.
1
sin =
2
= 150
y = tan( 15) = tan 135 = 1
Individual Event 4
I4.1 In figure 1, DE // BC. If AD 4, DB 6, DE 6 and BC a, find a. A
ADE ~ ABC (equiangular) 4
a 10 D E
(ratio of sides, ~s) 6
6 4 6
a = 15 B C
a
a b
I4.2 is an acute angle such that cos = . If tan = , find b.
17 15 17
b
2 2 2
b = 17 15
b=8
15
3 2
I4.3 If c = b , find c.
c3 = 82 = 64 = 43
c=4
I4.4 The area of an equilateral triangle is c 3 cm2. If its perimeter is d cm, find d.
Reference: 1985 FSI.4, 1986 FSG.3, 1987 FG6.2, 1988 FG9.1
d
Each side = cm
3
2
1 d
sin 60 c 3 4 3
2 3
d = 12
Individual Event 5
I5.1 In Figure 2, find a.
100 + (180 a) + 50 + 110 = 360 (sum of ext. of ) 100 a
a = 80
50
110
a
I5.2 If b = log 2 , find b.
5
b
2 = 16
b=4
I5.3 A piece of string, 20 m long, is divided into 3 parts in the ratio of b 2 : b : b + 2. If N m is
the length of the longest portion, find N.
b2:b:b+2=2:4:6=1:2:3
3
N = 20 = 10
1 2 3
I5.4 Each interior angle of an N-sided regular polygon is x. Find x.
180 10 2
x= = 144
10
Sample Group Event

SG.1 The sum of 2 numbers is 20, their product is 10. If the sum of their reciprocals is a, find a.
Reference: 1983 FG6.3, 1985 FSI.1, 1986 FSG.1
x + y = 20 and xy = 10
1 1 x y
a= = =2
x y xy
SG.2 12 1 = 02, 22 1 = 13, 32 1 = 24, , b2 1 = 135137. If b > 0, find b.
Reference: 1983 FI10.1, 1991 FI2.1
135137 = (136 1)(136 + 1) = 1362 1
b = 136
Remark The original question is:
12 1 = 02, 22 1 = 13, 32 1 = 24, , b2 1 = 135137, find b.
b = 136 or 136, there are 2 different answers!
SG.3 If the lines x + 2y + 1 = 0 and cx + 3y + 1 = 0 are perpendicular, find c.
Reference: 1983 FG9.3, 1985 FI4.1, 1986 FSG.2, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
1 c
1 c = -6
2 3
SG.4 The points (2, 1), (0, 1), (c, d) are collinear. Find d.
Reference: 1984 FG7.3, 1986FG6.2, 1987 FG7.4, 1989 HG8
d 1 1 1

6 02
d=7
Group Event 6
213 113
G6.1 If p = , find p. (Similar questions: 1985 FG7.1)
212 2111 112
p=
213 113
=
21 11212 2111 112 = 10
212 2111 112 212 2111 112
G6.2 If p men can do a job in 6 days and 4 men can do the same job in q days, find q.
10 men can do a job in 6 days.
1 man can do a job in 60 days
4 men can do a job in 15 days q = 15
G6.3 If the qth day of March in a year is Wednesday and the rth day of March in the same year is
Friday, where 18 < r < 26, find r. (Reference: 1985 FG9.3, 1987 FG6.4, 1988 FG10.2)
24th March is Friday r = 24
G6.4 If a*b = ab + 1, and s = (3*4)*2, find s. (Reference: 1985 FSG.1)
3*4 = 34 + 1 = 13
s = (3*4)*2 = 13*2 = 132 + 1 = 27
Group Event 7 (1988 Sample Group Event)

G7.1 The acute angle between the 2 hands of a clock at 3:30 a.m. is p. Find p.
Reference: 1985 FI3.1 1987 FG7.1, 1989 FI1.1, 1990 FG6.3, 2007 HI1
At 3:00 a.m., the angle between the arms of the clock = 90
1 1
From 3:00 a.m. to 3:30 a.m., the hour-hand had moved 360 = 15.
12 2
p = 180 90 15 = 75
G7.2 In ABC, B C p. If q sin A, find q.
B C 75, A 180 75 75 = 30
1
q = sin 30 =
2
G7.3 The 3 points (1, 3), (a, 5), (4, 9) are collinear. Find a.
Reference: 1984 FSG.4, 1986FG6.2, 1987 FG7.4, 1989 HG8
95 93
=2
4 a 4 1
a=2
G7.4 The average of 7, 9, x, y, 17 is 10. If m is the average of x + 3, x + 5, y + 2, 8, y +18, find m.
7 9 x y 17
= 10
5
x + y = 17
x 3 x 5 y 2 8 y 18
m=
5
2 x y 36
= = 14
5
Group Event 8
In the addition shown, each letter represents a different digit ranging from S E N D
zero to nine. It is already known that + M O R E
S = 9, O = zero, E = 5. M O N E Y
Find the numbers represented by
(i) M, (ii) N, (iii) R, (iv) Y
Consider the thousands digit and the ten thousands digits.
0 S, M 9, 9 + M = 10M + 0 or 9 + M + 1 = 10M + 0
M = 1 and there is no carry digit.
Consider the hundreds digit. 5 + 0 + 1 = N
N = 6 and there is a carry digit.
For the tens digit. 6 + R = 10 + 5
R = 9 (same as S, rejected) or 6 + R + 1 = 10 + 5
R=8
There is a carry digit in the unit digit
D + 5 = 10 + Y, (D, Y) = (7, 2) Y = 2
M = 1, N = 6, R = 8, Y = 2
Group Event 9
1 1 1 1
G9.1 If x = 1 1 1 1 , find x in the simplest fractional form.
2 3 4 100
Reference: 1985 FSG.3, 1986 FG10.4
1 2 3 99 1
x = =
2 3 4 100 100
G9.2 The length, width and height of a rectangular block are 2, 3 and 4 respectively. Its total
surface area is A, find A.
Similar Questions: 1984 FI3.2, 1985 FSI.2
A = 2(23 + 34 + 24) = 52
G9.3 The average of the integers 1, 2, 3, ... , 1001 is m. Find m.
m=
1
1 2 3 1001
1001
1 1 1001 1001
= = 501
1001 2
G9.4 The area of a circle inscribed in an equilateral triangle is 12. If
P is the perimeter of this triangle, find P.
Let the radius be r and the centre be O.
O
r2 = 12
r =2 3 r
30
P
The length of one side of the equilateral triangle is .
3
P
= 2r cot 30
3
= 2 3r = 12
P = 36
Group Event 10
G10.1 If A is the area of a square inscribed in a circle of diameter 10,
find A. E D
Let the square be BCDE. 10
BC = 10 cos 45 = 5 2
2
A = 5 2 = 50 45
B C
1 1
G10.2 If a = 2, and S = a 3 3 , find S.
a a
Reference: 1998 HG1
2
1 1
a 2 =a 2 = 4 2 = 2
2
a a
1
S = a3 3
a
1 1
= a a 2 1 2
a a
= 2(2 1) = 2
nn 1
Number of diagonals = C2n n = n 14
2
n2 3n 28 = 0
(n 7)(n + 4) = 0
n=7
G10.4 If d is the distance between the 2 points (2, 3) and (1, 7), find d.
d= 2 12 3 7 2 = 5
Individual Events
no. of
I1 a 1800 I2 I3 a 10 I4 routes 6 I5 a x2 + 2x + 1
b 12 b 10 b 2 b 2
c 8 missing c 30 c 3 c 2
1600
d d 90 angle 57 d 1000
3
Group Events
5
G6 a R G7 sum 360 G8 AC 15 m G9 a G10 A 3578
4
b 80 SABC 5 cm2 x 60 step 2 N 10
1 1
c a3 + 3 18 2x 1 c 6 OAB 56
2 a
8 144
d 6 d 220 Probability X 46
9 343
Individual Event 1
I.1.1 In the following figure, the sum of the marked angles is a, find a.
Angle sum of a triangle = 180, angles sum of 2 triangles = 360
Angle at a point = 360, angles sum at 6 vertices = 6360 = 2160
a = 2160 360 = 1800
I.1.2 The sum of the interior angles of a regular b-sided polygon is a. Find b.
180(b 2) = 1800
b = 12
I1.3 Find c, if 2b = c4.
212 = (23)4 = 84
c=8
b
I1.4 Find d, if = k and c : d = k : 100.
c
12 3
k= =
8 2
3
8:d= : 100
2
8 : d = 3: 200
200 1600
d= 8=
3 3
Individual Event 3
I3.1 If a = 1.8 5.0865 + 1 0.0865 1.8, find a.
a = 1.8 (5 + 0.0865) + 1 0.0865 1.8 = 9 + 1 = 10
I3.2 In the diagram shown, OH = OK = a units and OABC is a H
rectangle. AC = b units. What is b?
b = OB = OH = a = 10 B
A
O C K
I3.3 In the expression shown, what is c when it is expanded to the x0
(b2)
term with x as the numerator? x1
b 2 = 10 2 = 8 2 +
x2
T(1) = 2, T(2) = 6, T(3) = 10, this is an arithmetic sequence with 6+
x3
first term = 2, common difference = 4. 10 +
LLLLL
T(8) = 2 + (8 1)4 = 30 14 +
L
x (b 2 )
c+
O
I3.4 As shown a rabbit spends c minutes in travelling from A
to B along half circle. With the same speed, it spends d
minutes in travelling from A B D along half circles.
What is d?
Radius of the smaller circle = 1 O A(1,0) D
Radius of the larger circle = 2 B
(0,0) (3,0)
Circumference of the smaller semi-circle A B =
Circumference of the larger semi-circle B D = 2
+ 2
Speed = = d = 3c = 90
c d
Individual Event 4
I4.1 The figure shows a board consisting of nine squares. A counter originally Y
on square X can be moved either upwards or to the right one square at a
time. By how many different routes may the counter be moved from X to
Y? X
Reference: 1998 HG6, 2000 HI4, 2007 HG5
By adding numbers on the right as shown (Pascal triangle), the number of 1 3 6
different routes = 6 1 2 3
1 1 1

I4.2 Given 2a = b tan . Find b.
3
12 = b 3
b = 2
pq
I4.3 Given that p * q = , find c if c = (a + b) * (b a).
p
4+8
c = (6 2)*(2 6) = 4*(8) = =3
4
I4.4 A wire of c cm is bent to form a sector of radius 1 cm. What is the 3 cm
angle of the sector in degrees (correct to the nearest degree)?
Let the angle at centre be radians.
2 + 1 = 3 B C
o O 1 cm
180
= 1 radian = 57.3 = 57 (correct to the nearest degree)

Individual Event 5
I5.1 If a(x + 1) = x3 + 3x2 + 3x + 1, find a in terms of x.
a(x + 1) = (x + 1)3
a = (x + 1)2 = x2 + 2x + 1
I5.2 If a 1 = 0, then the value of x is 0 or b, what is b?
a = 1 1 = (x + 1)2
x2 + 2x = 0 x = 0 or 2 b = 2
I5.3 If pc4 = 32, pc = b2 and c is positive, what is the value of c?
pc4 = 32 (1)
pc = (2)2 = 4 (2)
(1)(2): c3 = 8
c=2
I5.4 P is an operation such that P(AB) = P(A) + P(B).
P(A) = y means A = 10y. If d = AB, P(A) = 1 and P(B) = c, find d.
P(A) = 1 A = 101 = 10
P(B) = c B = 102 = 100
d = AB = 10100 = 1000
Group Event 6
G6.1 The table shows the results of the operation * on P, Q, * P Q R S
R, S taken two at a time. P Q R S P
Let a be the inverse of P. Find a. Q R S P Q
P*S = P = S*P, Q*S = Q = S*Q, R*S = R = S*R, R S P Q R
S*S = S S P Q R S
The identity element is S.
P*R = S = R*P, the inverse of P is R.
G6.2 The average of and is 105, the average of , and

is b. Find b.
( + )2 = 105 + = 210 (1)
180 + = (adj. s on st. line, ext. of )

= + 180 (2)
Sub. (1) into (2): = 210 180 = 30
b = (210 + 30)3 = 80
G6.3 The sum of two numbers is 10, their product is 20. The sum of their reciprocal is c. What is c?
Reference 1984 FSG.1, 1985 FSGI.1, 1986 FSG.1
x + y = 10 (1)
x y = 20 (2)
1 1 x + y 10 1
c= + = = =
x y xy 20 2
G6.4 It is given that 90 = 9.49, to 2 decimal places.
If d < 7 0.9 < d + 1, where d is an integer, what is d?
7 0.9 = 0.7 90 = 0.79.49 (correct to 2 decimal places)
= 6.643
d=6
Group Event 7
G7.1 Find 3 + 6 + 9 + + 45.
The above is an arithmetic series with first term = 3, common difference =3, no. of terms =15.
S15 = (3 + 45) = 360
15
2
G7.2 In the figure shown, ACDE is a square and AC = BC, A E
ACB = 90. Find the area of ABC if the area of ACDE is
10 cm2.
ABC CED ECA (S.A.S.)
1
The area of ABC = area of ACDE = 5 cm2
2 B D
C
1 1
G7.3 Given that a + = 3 . Evaluate a 3 + 3 .
a a
Reference: 1996 FI1.2, 1998 FG5.2, 2010 FI3.2
2
1
a + = 9
a
1
a2 + 2 = 7
a
1 1 1
a 3 + 3 = a + a 2 1 + 2
a a a
= 3(7 1) = 18
n
1 1 1 1 1
G7.4 Given that = + + + L + .
y =1 y 1 2 3 n
10 10
1 1
Find y 2 y 1 . (Express your answer in fraction.)

y =3 y =3
10 10
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
y 2 y 1 = 1 + 2 + 3 + L + 8 2 + 3 + L + 9

y =3 y =3
1 8
= 1 =
9 9
Group Event 8
G8.1 Peter is standing at A and John is at C. The A
distance between B and D is 12 m. What is the
7m D
shortest distance between John and Peter?
B 12 m 2m
Reference: 1991 HG9, 1993 HI1, 1996 HG9 C
AC = (7 + 2)2 + 122 m = 15 m
G8.2 The following figure shows a part of the graph
y = sin 3x. What is the x-coordinate of P?
sin 3x = 0
3x = 180
x = 60
G8.3 If f (x) = x2, then express f (x) f (x 1) in terms of x.

f (x) f (x 1) = x2 (x 1)2 = 2x 1
G8.4 If mnp, nmp, mmp and nnp are numbers in base 10 composed of the digits m, n and p, such
that: mnp nmp = 180 and mmp nnp = d. Find d.
100m + 10n + p (100n + 10m + p) = 180
100(m n) 10(m n) = 180
mn=2
d = mmp nnp
= 100m + 10m + p (100n + 10n + p)
= 110(m n)
= 220
Group Event 9
3
G9.1 If sin = , a = tan 2 + 1 , find a.
5
9 16
cos2 = 1 sin2 = 1 =
25 25
sin 2 259 9
tan2 = = =
cos 2 16
25 16
9 5
a = tan 2 + 1 = +1 =
16 4
1 1
G9.2 Examine the following proof carefully: To prove > .
8 4
Steps
1 3>2
1 1 1
2 Multiply both sides by log , then 3 log > 2 log
2 2 2
3 2
1 1
3 log > log
2 2
3 2
1 1
4 >
2 2
1 1
>
8 4
Which step is incorrect?
1
Step 2 is incorrect because log < 0.
2
1 1 1
Multiply both sides by log , then 3 log < 2 log .
2 2 2
G9.3 If the lines 2y + x + 3 = 0 and 3y + cx + 2 = 0 are perpendicular, find the value of c.
Reference: 1984 FSG.3, 1985 FI4.1, 1986 FSG.2, 1987 FG10.2, 1988 FG8.2
Product of slopes = 1
1 c
= 1
2 3
c = 6
G9.4 There are 4 red balls and 3 black balls in a box. If 3 balls are chosen one by one with
replacement, what is the probability of choosing 2 red balls and 1 black ball?
2
4 3 144
P(2 red, 1 black) = 3 =
7 7 343
Group Event 10
G10.1 1 1 = 0 2
2
22 1 = 1 3
32 1 = 2 4
42 1 = 3 5

A2 1 = 3577 3579
If A > 0, find A.
Reference: 1984 FSG..2, 1991 FI2.1
A2 1 = (3578 1) (3578 + 1)
A = 3578
G10.2 The sides of an N-sided regular polygon are produced to form
a star. If the angle at each point of that star is 108, find
N. (For example, the star of a six-sided polygon is given as
shown in the diagram.)
Consider an isosceles triangle formed by each point. The
vertical angle is 108.
180o 108o
Each of the base angle = = 36
2 6-sided regular polygon.
36N = 360 (sum of ext. s of polygon) N = 10
G10.3 A, P, B are three points on a circle with centre O.
P
If APB = 146, find OAB.
146
Add a point Q as shown in the diagram. B
AQB = 180 146 = 34 (opp. s cyclic quad.)
AOB = 234 = 68 ( at centre twice at ce) A
O
OA = OB = radii
OAB = OBA (base s isos. )
180o 68o Q
= = 56 (s sum of )
2
G10.4 A number X consists of 2 digits whose product is 24. By reversing the digits, the new number
formed is 18 greater than the original one. What is X? (Reference: 1991 FG6.1-2)
Let the tens digit of X be a and the units digit be b.
X = 10a + b, reversed number = 10b + a
24
ab = 24 b = (1)
a
10b + a (10a + b) = 18 b a = 2 (2)
24
Sub. (1) into (2): a=2
a
24 a2 = 2a
a2 + 2a 24 = 0
(a 4)(a + 6) = 0
b=6
X = 46
Individual Event 3
I3.1 Find a in the figure.
4 4 1 2
a 10 21 32
1 5 2 3 4 5 5 6
(1 5) + 4 = 9 (2 3) + 4 = 10 (4 5) + 1 = 21 (5 6) + 2 = 32.
a=9
sin (4b )
o
I3.2 Find b if = a (0 < 4b < 90)
cos(4b )
o
tan (4b) = 3
4b = 60 b = 15
3 7 c b
I3.3 Find c from the sequence: , , , .
12 34 56 78
3 7 c 15
, , ,
12 34 56 78
12 + 22 = 34, 34 + 22 = 56, 56 + 22 = 78
3 + 4 = 7, 7 + 4 = 11, 11 + 4 = 15
c = 11
I3.4 In the figure, O is the centre, B and C are points on the

circumference. BOC = 3c, OBC = d. Find d. C
BCO = d (base s isos. )
d
2d + 33 = 180 (s sum of ) 3c
d = 73.5 DB O
Individual Event 4
log a 3
I4.1 Find x if x = where a > 0 and a 1.
log a 2
log a 3 3 log a 3
x= = =
log a 2 2 log a 2
I4.2 If y 1 = log x + log 2 log 3, find y.
3
y 1 = log + log 2 log 3
2
3 2
y = log + 1 = log 1 + 1 = 1
2 3
I4.3 What is Z if log 2 Z y = 3?
log2 Z = 3 Z = 23 = 8
I4.4 Find log z y .
log8 1 = 0
Individual Event 5
I5.1 Let the sum of the marked angles be a. Find a.
The figure shows two equilateral triangles inscribed in a
regular hexagon.
Each interior angle of the hexagon = 120
Each angle of an equilateral triangle = 60
Each marked angle = (120 60) 2 = 30
There are 12 marked angles.
a = 1230 = 360
o
D
I5.2 ACE = . Find b.
a
10
DCE = 180 20 70 = 90 (s sum of ) B
ACE = 36 20
30
ACD = 90 36= 54 A 60
ACB = 180 30 60 = 90 (s sum of ) b
b = 90 54 = 36 70
E C
I5.3 If HK = KL, LM = MN, HK // MN, find c. H
KHL = b = 36 (base s isos. )
LKH = 180 36 36 = 108 (s sum of ) N
LMN = 180 108 = 72 (int. s, NM // HK)
MNL = c (base s isos. )
c + c + 72 = 180 (s sum of ) c b
c = 54 M L K
I5.4 TQF is a semi-circle. Find d. Q
TQF = 90 (s in semi-circle)
c + d = 90 (s sum of )
54 + d = 90
d = 36
c d
T F
Group Event 6
Let log 2 = a, log 3 = b, log 5 = c.
G6.1 Express log 6 in terms of a, b and c.

log 6 = log 2 + log 3 = a + b
G6.2 Evaluate 3.5 a + 3.5 c.

3.5 a + 3.5 c = 3.5 log 2 + 3.5 log 5
= 3.5 log(25) = 3.5
log 30
G6.3 Express in terms of a, b and c.
log 15
log 30 log 3 + log10 b +1 log 30 log 2 + log 3 + log 5 a + b + c
= = or = =
log 15 log 3 + log10 log 2 b + 1 a log 15 log 3 + log 5 b+c
2
G6.4 Express (log 15) log 15 in terms of a, b and c.
(log 15)2 log 15 = log 15(log 15 1) = (log 3 + log 10 log 2) (log 3 log 2)
= (b a + 1)(b a)
OR (log 15)2 log 15 = log 15(log 15 1) = (log 3 + log 5) (log 3 + log 5 1) = (b+c)(b+c1)
Group Event 7
G7.1 Figure 1 shows a cone and a hemisphere.
OB = 12 cm, r = 10 cm. Express the surface area of the solid in terms
of .
The surface area = 2r2 + rL = 320 cm2
Figure 1
G7.2 What is the volume of the hemisphere shown in figure 1? Give your answer in terms of .
2 2000 3
Volume = r3 = cm
3 3
G7.3 In figure 2, a right circular cone stands inside a right cylinder of same
base radius r and height h. Express the volume of the space between
them in terms of r and h.
1
Volume of space = r2h r2h
3
2 2
= r h
3
Figure 2
G7.4 Find the ratio of the volume of the cylinder to that of the cone.
1
Ratio = r2h : r2h = 3 : 1
3
Group Event 8
Given that: 1 stands for A
2 stands for B
1 2 3

4 5 6
25 stands for Y
7 8 9
26 stands for Z
G8.1 What number does the code stand for?
stands for 23485
G8.2 Put stands for zero. Calculate the following and give the answer in code.
( )( ) +
= 2040 + 19 30 = 789
=
G8.3 3 8 18 9 19 20 13 1 19 stands for a word. What is it?
3 = C, 8 = H, 18 = R, 9 = I, 19 = S, 20 = T, 13 = M, 1 = A, 19 = S
The number stands for CHRISTMAS
G8.4 Decode the following message: ( ) ( )
There are two words in the message.
( ) ( ) = (10 15 9 14) (21 19) = JOIN US
Group Event 9
G9.1 Find A from the sequence: 0, 3, 8, A, 24, 35,
12 1, 22 1, 32 1, 42 1, 52 1, 62 1, A = 42 1 = 15
G9.2 The roots of the equation x2 Ax + B = 0 are 7 and C. Find B and C.
x2 15x + B = 0
7 + C = 15 C = 8
B = 7C = 56
G9.3 If log7 B = log7 C + 7X; find X.
log7 56 = log7 8 + 7X
7X = log7 (56/8) = log7 7 = 1
X=0
Group Event 10
G10.1 How many digits are there in the number N if N = 212 58?
Reference: 1992HI17, 2012 HI4
N = 212 58 = 24108 = 16108
There are 10 digits.
48
G10.2 If (2 1) is divisible by two whole numbers between 60 and 70, find them.
248 1 = (224 + 1)(224 1) = (224 + 1)(212 + 1)(212 1) = (224 + 1)(212 + 1)(26 + 1)(26 1)
Smaller number = 26 1 = 63, larger number = 26 + 1 = 65.
1 1 1 1
G10.3 Given 2 2 9 9 , 3 3 8 8 . What is the greatest number?
1 1 1 2 1 1 1 3
2 2 9 9 = 2 2 3 9 ; 33 88 = 33 2 8
(2 )
1 2 1 1 1
2 2 39 28 9 72
512 72
= = = <1
(3 )
1 3 1 1
6561
3 2
3 8 8 72
39
1 1
33 88 is the greatest.

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1982-2016

Hongkong Mathematics Olympiad

2016 Heat Individual (Sample Paper) answer

For positive integral roots, k 2 is a positive factor of 8 and k + 2 is a positive factor of 6.

Let P(2, 3) and Q(7, 9) be two points. R(x, 0) is a variable point

Let y = sum of distances = x 2 9 x 7 81

then PMR PMR (S.A.S.)

The minimum value of x 2 4 x 13 x 2 14 x 130 is 13. P'(2, -3)

I15 In figure 2, AE = 14, EB = 7, AC = 29 and BD = DC = 10.

Suppose BD and CE intersect at the centriod G.

= 1 : 2. FA and FB intersect EC at G and H respectively.

Produce CE to meet BA produced at I. Let DF = k, CF = 2k.

I15 {an} an+2 = an+1 an a2 = 1 a3 = 1 a2016

and Q is a point on CP. It is known that BQ CP,

solving yields y = 5 (since y > 0). B(9, -y)

G3 a1, a2, a3, Sn = a1 + a2 + + an n

G5 AOB = 15XY OA PQR A

Reflect O, S, T, U, C along OD to give O, L, M, N, E. M W C

AOC = COD = DOE = AOB = 15, BOE = 60 L

Substituting x = 2015 yields

= 2016 + 4000000 + 60000 + 225

The construction steps are as follows:

1 730639 2 201499 3 22 4 232 5 1016064

(A.M. G.M., equality holds when b = 8, a + c = 8)

1 2 2014 4 2014 3 8 2014 7

Let y = sum of distances = x 2 9 x 7 81

If we reflect P(2, 3) along x-axis to P(2, 3), M(2, 0) is the foot 4

CDG = CIH (ext. , cyclic quad.)

Clearly E is the point of inversion of E w.r.t. C4.

211 2 x 289 23x

(9) + (10): 11(y x)(y + x) 2xy(y x) = 23(y x)

Hongkong Mathematics Olympiad

I1.2 If is the sum of all digits of the product 11111

Reference: 2000 FI4.4

= the sum of all digits = 9 + 98 + 9 = 90

I1.4 If n is a positive integer and f (n) = 2n + 2n1 + 2n2 + + 22 + 21 + 1,

= 7m + 7158 + 5, where m is an integer

numbers neither divisible by 5 nor 7 numbers not divisible by 5 or not

Reference: 1997 HI5, 2002 FG2.3, 2004 HI1, 2015 FG4.1

Product of roots = 10 log 7

Q3(corre ct)Q4(corre ct)

116r2 1680r 900 = 0 29r2 420r 225 = 0

G2.4 In the figure below, there are 4 identical circles placed

In ADU, DAU = 30, DU = 1, DU AU, E F

I2 Given that a = 2014x + 2011, b = 2014x + 2013 and c = 2014x + 2015.

I3 As shown in Figure 1, a point T lies in an equilateral

I6 Let n be a positive integer and n < 1000. If (n2014 1) is divisible by (n 1)2,

I10 Given that ABC is an acute triangle, where A > B > C.

G2 Figure 1 shows a ABC, AB = 32, AC = 15 and

G4 As shown in Figure 2, ABCD is a square. P is a point lies in

G6 As shown in Figure 3, X, Y and Z are points on

(1) (2): a2 b2 + (a b)c + (a b)d = 0

= 3 < 0, no solution or tan x =

OT = OR = OS (Corr. sides, 's)

OBT = OBS (Corr. s, 's) A

The three angle bisectors are concurrent at one

A suggested solution to the Chinese version is given as follows:

The unit digit of 3, 32, 33, 34 are 3, 9, 7, 1 respectively.

I3.3 In the figure, triangle ABC has ABC = 2, AB = AD and

I3.4 For the sequence 1, 2, 1, 2, 2, 1, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, , determine the sum of the first

D is the midpoint of the base BC, AD BC, AD = 8

G2.2 If Sn = 1 2 + 3 4 + + (1)n1 n, where n is a positive integer,

G2.4 In the figure, vertices of equilateral triangle ABC are

G3.3 In the figure, ABCD is a square, ADE is an