Difference between revisions of "2024 SSMO Relay Round 1 Problems/Problem 2"

(Created page with "==Problem== Let <math>T = TNYWR.</math> A circular necklace is called <math>interesting</math> if it has <math>T</math> black beads and <math>T</math> white beads. A move con...")
 
 
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==Solution==
 
==Solution==
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Every time we reverse a section, we can "fix" the position of at least one bead. When only two beads are out of place, we can "fix" their positions with only one move. So, the answer is <math>2T-1.</math> Since <math>T = 360,</math> we have <math>2T-1 = \boxed{719}.</math>
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~SMO_Team

Latest revision as of 14:43, 10 September 2025

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

Every time we reverse a section, we can "fix" the position of at least one bead. When only two beads are out of place, we can "fix" their positions with only one move. So, the answer is $2T-1.$ Since $T = 360,$ we have $2T-1 = \boxed{719}.$

~SMO_Team