Problem

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Tags: combinatorics proposed, combinatorics



Suppose a table with one row and infinite columns. We call each $1\times1$ square a room. Let the table be finite from left. We number the rooms from left to $\infty$. We have put in some rooms some coins (A room can have more than one coin.). We can do $2$ below operations: $a)$ If in $2$ adjacent rooms, there are some coins, we can move one coin from the left room $2$ rooms to right and delete one room from the right room. $b)$ If a room whose number is $3$ or more has more than $1$ coin, we can move one of its coins $1$ room to right and move one other coin $2$ rooms to left. $i)$ Prove that for any initial configuration of the coins, after a finite number of movements, we cannot do anything more. $ii)$ Suppose that there is exactly one coin in each room from $1$ to $n$. Prove that by doing the allowed operations, we cannot put any coins in the room $n+2$ or the righter rooms.