Consider the integers a1,a2,a3,a4,b1,b2,b3,b4 with ak≠bk for all k=1,2,3,4. If {a1,b1}+{a2,b2}={a3,b3}+{a4,b4}, show that the number |(a1−b1)(a2−b2)(a3−b3)(a4−b4)| is a square. Note. For any sets A and B, we denote A+B={x+y|x∈A,y∈B}.
Source: 2006 Romania JBMO TST 5.2
Tags: number theory
Consider the integers a1,a2,a3,a4,b1,b2,b3,b4 with ak≠bk for all k=1,2,3,4. If {a1,b1}+{a2,b2}={a3,b3}+{a4,b4}, show that the number |(a1−b1)(a2−b2)(a3−b3)(a4−b4)| is a square. Note. For any sets A and B, we denote A+B={x+y|x∈A,y∈B}.