2024 SSMO Relay Round 1 Problems/Problem 2

Problem

Let $T = TNYWR.$ A circular necklace is called $interesting$ if it has $T$ black beads and $T$ white beads. A move consists of cutting out a segment of consecutive beads and reattaching it in reverse. It is possible to change any $interesting$ necklace into any other $interesting$ necklace using at most $x$ moves. Find $x$. (Note: Rotations and reflections of a necklace are considered the same necklace).

Solution