MathDB
Interesting problem - Choose no fewer than n/4 squares

Source: IMO LongList 1979 - P13

May 29, 2011
combinatorics unsolvedcombinatorics

Problem Statement

The plane is divided into equal squares by parallel lines; i.e., a square net is given. Let MM be an arbitrary set of nn squares of this net. Prove that it is possible to choose no fewer than n/4n/4 squares of MM in such a way that no two of them have a common point.