The discussion centers on understanding the ratio of quadratic roots, particularly in the context of preparation for mathematical Olympiads. Participants emphasize the importance of skills in solving monic quadratics and suggest writing down ratios to solve for coefficients, specifically 'b'. The conversation highlights the necessity of speed and efficiency in problem-solving, indicating that brute force methods may lead to time wastage if not executed quickly.
PREREQUISITESStudents preparing for mathematics Olympiads, educators teaching quadratic equations, and anyone looking to enhance their problem-solving skills in competitive mathematics.
Mathsonfire said:86
tkhunny said:Those are nice problems. If you're prepping for the Olympiad, you will need the skills. If all else fails, brute force it! Of course, if you're not fast enough, you'll waste too much time.
Personally, I wrote down the ratios and solved for b. You could solve for any of the 4 remaining arbitrary coefficients.
They were nice to you and made them both monic quadratics.
Mathsonfire said:I didnt get it