Heptagon Challenge: Proving $\dfrac{1}{2}<\dfrac{S_Q+S_R}{S_P}<2-\sqrt{2}$

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In summary, the Heptagon Challenge is a mathematical problem that involves proving an inequality for a heptagon using advanced geometric and algebraic techniques. This problem is important as it provides insights into the properties of heptagons and their relationship to other shapes. While there may not be any direct real-world applications, the skills and techniques used to solve this problem can be applied to other mathematical and scientific problems. As of now, the solution to the Heptagon Challenge remains unknown, but progress has been made in recent years, contributing to the advancement of mathematical knowledge and techniques.
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Let $P_1P_2P_3P_4P_5P_6P_7,\,Q_1Q_2Q_3Q_4Q_5Q_6Q_7,\,R_1R_2R_3R_4R_5R_6R_7$ be regular heptagons with areas $S_P,\,S_Q$ and $S_R$ respectively. Let $P_1P_2=Q_1Q_3=R_1R_4$. Prove that $\dfrac{1}{2}<\dfrac{S_Q+S_R}{S_P}<2-\sqrt{2}$
 
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\coordinate[label=above:$P_5$] (D) at (0.54,2.92);
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Let $P_1P_2=a,\,P_1P_3=b,\,P_1P_4=c$. By the Ptolomeus thoerem for the quadrangle $P_1P_3P_4P_5$ it follows that $ab+ac=bc$, i.e. $\dfrac{a}{b}+\dfrac{a}{c}=1$. Since $\triangle P_1P_2P_3\equiv \triangle Q_1Q_2Q_3$, then $\dfrac{Q_1Q_2}{Q_1Q_3}=\dfrac{a}{b}$ and hence $Q_1Q_2=\dfrac{a^2}{b}$.

Analogously $R_1R_2=\dfrac{a^2}{c}$. Therefore, $\dfrac{S_Q+S_R}{S_P}=\dfrac{a^2}{b}+\dfrac{a^2}{c}$. Then $\dfrac{a^2}{b}+\dfrac{a^2}{c}>\dfrac{1}{2}\left(\dfrac{a}{b}+\dfrac{a}{c}\right)^2=\dfrac{1}{2}$ (equality is not possible because $\dfrac{a}{b}\ne\dfrac{a}{c}$.

On the other hand

$\dfrac{a^2}{b^2}+\dfrac{a^2}{c^2}=\left(\dfrac{a}{b}+\dfrac{a}{c}\right)^2-\dfrac{2a^2}{bc}=1-\dfrac{2a^2}{bc}$---(1)

By the Sine theorem, we get

$\dfrac{a^2}{bc}=\dfrac{\sin^2 \dfrac{\pi}{7}}{\sin^2 \dfrac{\pi}{7}\sin^2 \dfrac{4\pi}{7}}=\dfrac{1}{4\cos\dfrac{2\pi}{7}\left(1+\cos\dfrac{2\pi}{7}\right)}$

Since $\cos\dfrac{2\pi}{7}<\cos \dfrac{\pi}{4}=\dfrac{\sqrt{2}}{2}$, then $\dfrac{a^2}{bc}>\dfrac{1}{4\dfrac{\sqrt{2}}{2}\left(1+\dfrac{\sqrt{2}}{2}\right)}=\sqrt{2}-1$. From here and from (1), we get the right hand side inequality of the problem.
 

FAQ: Heptagon Challenge: Proving $\dfrac{1}{2}<\dfrac{S_Q+S_R}{S_P}<2-\sqrt{2}$

What is the Heptagon Challenge?

The Heptagon Challenge is a mathematical problem that involves proving the inequality $\dfrac{1}{2}<\dfrac{S_Q+S_R}{S_P}<2-\sqrt{2}$, where $S_P$, $S_Q$, and $S_R$ are the areas of three specific regions within a heptagon.

What is a heptagon?

A heptagon is a polygon with seven sides and seven angles. It is also known as a septagon.

What is the significance of the inequality in the Heptagon Challenge?

The inequality in the Heptagon Challenge is significant because it is a mathematical statement that has not yet been proven. It is also believed to have connections to other mathematical concepts, making it a challenging and intriguing problem for mathematicians.

What is the current progress on solving the Heptagon Challenge?

As of now, the Heptagon Challenge remains unsolved. Some progress has been made in finding upper and lower bounds for the inequality, but a complete proof has not been found yet.

Why is the Heptagon Challenge important?

The Heptagon Challenge is important because it represents a significant unsolved problem in mathematics. Solving it would not only provide a solution to the specific inequality, but it could also lead to new insights and discoveries in the field of mathematics.

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