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1961 IMO Problems/Problem 2

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Problem

Let a, b, and c be the lengths of a triangle whose area is S. Prove that

a^2 + b^2 + c^2 \ge 4S\sqrt{3}

In what case does equality hold?

Solution

Substitute S=\sqrt{s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)}, where s=\frac{a+b+c}{2}

This shows that the inequality is equivalent to a^2b^2+b^2c^2+c^2a^2\le a^4+b^4+c^4.

This can be proven because a^2b^2\le\frac{a^4+b^4}{2}. The equality holds when a=b=c, or when the triangle is equilateral.


1961 IMO (Problems)
Preceded by
Problem 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 Followed by
Problem 3
Looking for a challenging geometry text? Preparing for MATHCOUNTS or the AMC exams? Check out Art of Problem Solving's Introduction to Geometry by Richard Rusczyk.
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