MathDB
7 steps to guess the number

Source: Argentina 2001 OMA L3 p1

May 12, 2024
combinatoricsnumber theory

Problem Statement

Sergio thinks of a positive integer SS, less than or equal to 100100. Iván must guess the number that Sergio thought of, using the following procedure: in each step, he chooses two positive integers AA and BB less than 100100, and asks Sergio what is the greatest common factor between A+SA+ S and BB. Give a sequence of seven steps that ensures Iván guesses the number SS that Sergio thought of.
Clarification:In each step, Sergio correctly answers Iván's question.