Subcontests
(6)Sequence of symmetric matrices
Given a 3×3 symmetric real matrix A, we define f(A) as a 3×3 matrix with the same eigenvectors of A such that if A has eigenvalues a, b, c, then f(A) has eigenvalues b+c, c+a, a+b (in that order). We define a sequence of symmetric real 3×3 matrices A0,A1,A2,… such that An+1=f(An) for n≥0. If the matrix A0 has no zero entries, determine the maximum number of indices j≥0 for which the matrix Aj has any null entries. what is the first number we cannot make with some dice
A toymaker has k dice at his disposal, each with 6 blank sides. On each side of each of these dice, the toymaker must draw one of the digits 0,1,2,…,9.Determine (in terms of k) the largest integer n such that the toymaker can draw digits on the k dice such that, for any positive integer r≤n, it is possible to choose some of the k dice and form with them the decimal representation of r.Note: The digits 6 and 9 are distinguishable: they appear as 6 and 9.