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1995 IMO Problems/Problem 1

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Problem

Let A,B,C,D be four distinct points on a line, in that order. The circles with diameters AC and BD intersect at X and Y. The line XY meets BC at Z. Let P be a point on the line XY other than Z. The line CP intersects the circle with diameter AC at C and M, and the line BP intersects the circle with diameter BD at B and N. Prove that the lines AM,DN,XY are concurrent.


Solution

Since M is on the circle with diameter AC, we have \angle AMC=90 and so \angle MCA=90-A. We simlarly find that \angle BND=90. Also, notice that the line XY is the radical axis of the two circles with diameters AC and BD. Thus, since P is on XY, we have PN\cdotPB=PM\cdot PC and so by the converse of Power of a Point, the quadrilateral MNBC is cyclic. Thus, 90-A=\angle MCA=\angle BNM. Thus, \angle MND=180-A and so quadrilateral AMND is cyclic. Let the circle which contains the points AMND be cirle O. Then, the radical axis of O and the circle with diameter AC is line AM. Also, the radical axis of O and the circle with diameter BD is line DN. Since the pairwise radical axes of 3 circles are concurrent, we have AM,DN,XY are concurrent as desired.

See also

Want to learn how to tackle those tough AMC/AIME/Olympiad counting and probability problems? Check out Art of Problem Solving's Intermediate Counting & Probability by David Patrick.
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