Find the flaw

problem:Find all function G from the set of natural numbers to natural numbers such that (g(m) +n)(g(n)+m) is a perfect square for all m,n (natural numbers) .

solution: Lets take g(m) = m+ f(m)

The given expression equals (m+n)2+ (m+n)(f(m) + f(n)) + f(m)f(n)

We see this as a quadratic on (m+n). Since the expression gives perfect square for infinitely many values, we must have its discriminant equal to zero.

That gives f(m)= f(n) hence f is constant

we obtain solutions G(t) = t+ C, obviously C has to be positive

Find flaw in above solution.(No actual solution needed, discuss the flaw)

3 Answers

341
Hari Shankar ·

I can understand the conclusion that if an^2+bn+c is a perfect square for all n, then it has to be of the form (pn+q)2

But with f(m) and f(n) also variables how is this conclusion valid?

Just to check - you are aware that this is IMO 2010, right?

62
Lokesh Verma ·

We see this as a quadratic on (m+n). Since the expression gives perfect square for infinitely many values, we must have its discriminant equal to zero.

I dont think so!

21
Shubhodip ·

Yep

I was aware that this is IMO 2010

I forgot that coefficients are not constant

I was sure of the mistake but could not trace it that time..

Thank u prophet sir, Nishant sir

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