What is the solution to a problem involving integers on an icosahedron?

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    2016
In summary, an icosahedron is a three-dimensional shape with 20 faces, each of which is an equilateral triangle. Integers are whole numbers that can be used to label the vertices or edges of an icosahedron. The problem involving integers on an icosahedron may involve finding the sum, product, or difference of integers on the vertices or edges. The solution to this problem will involve using mathematical operations and properties to manipulate the integers and arrive at a final answer. Additionally, there are real-life applications for understanding the properties of an icosahedron and how integers relate to it, such as in architecture, chemistry, and crystallography.
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Ackbach
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Here is this week's POTW:

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In honor of Opalg's http://mathhelpboards.com/geometry-11/ask-height-icosahedron-18151.html, here is another problem involving icosahedrons:

On each face of a regular icosahedron is written a nonnegative integer such that the sum of all $20$ integers is $39$. Show that there are two faces that share a vertex and have the same integer written on them. (Recall that an icosahedron has $12$ vertices.)

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Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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Congratulations to kiwi for his correct answer, which follows:

Assume that no two faces with a common vertex have the same number written on them.

Consider any vertex. If we sum the integers on the 5 faces that involve this vertex the sum must be at least 0+1+2+3+4=10.

Doing this for all 12 vertices and summing (recognizing that every face will be counted more than once) we get a total of 120.

Now each face is triangular so it's integer was included for each of three vertices. Since no two faces with a common vertex have the same number written on them the total must be at least 120/3 = 40.

We are told that the total is 39 so we have a contradiction so two faces with a common vertex must have the same number on them.
 

Related to What is the solution to a problem involving integers on an icosahedron?

1. What is an icosahedron?

An icosahedron is a three-dimensional shape with 20 faces, each of which is an equilateral triangle.

2. How do integers relate to an icosahedron?

Integers are whole numbers that can be used to label the vertices or edges of an icosahedron.

3. What is the problem involving integers on an icosahedron?

The problem may involve finding the sum, product, or difference of integers on the vertices or edges of an icosahedron.

4. What is the solution to this problem?

The solution will vary depending on the specific problem, but it will involve using mathematical operations and properties to manipulate the integers and arrive at a final answer.

5. Are there any real-life applications for this problem?

Yes, understanding the properties of an icosahedron and how integers relate to it can be useful in fields such as architecture, chemistry, and crystallography.

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