Memorize symmetric polynomial identities. They save precious seconds. Category 3: Geometry – The Diagram is a Trap Problem (Modeled after 2016 National Sprint #28): In rectangle ABCD, AB = 8, BC = 15. Point E lies on side CD such that CE = 5. Lines AE and BD intersect at F. Find the area of triangle BEF.
(\fraca+bab = \frac317 \Rightarrow 17(a+b) = 3ab). Solve for one variable: (17a + 17b = 3ab \Rightarrow 17a = 3ab - 17b = b(3a - 17) \Rightarrow b = \frac17a3a-17). Mathcounts National Sprint Round Problems And Solutions
Triangle BEF: vertices B(8,0), E(3,15), F(24/11, 120/11). Use shoelace formula: Area = 1/2 | x1(y2-y3) + x2(y3-y1) + x3(y1-y2) | = 1/2 | 8(15 - 120/11) + 3(120/11 - 0) + (24/11)(0 - 15) | = 1/2 | 8( (165-120)/11 ) + 3(120/11) + (24/11)(-15) | = 1/2 | 8*(45/11) + 360/11 - 360/11 | = 1/2 | 360/11 | = 180/11. Memorize symmetric polynomial identities
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