Problem

Source: Italy MO 2023 P5

Tags: algebra, inequalities proposed



Let $a, b, c$ be reals satisfying $a^2+b^2+c^2=6$. Find the maximal values of the expressions a) $(a-b)^2+(b-c)^2+(c-a)^2$; b) $(a-b)^2 \cdot (b-c)^2 \cdot (c-a)^2$. In both cases, describe all triples for which equality holds.