1973 USAMO Problems/Problem 1

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Problem

Two points $P$ and $Q$ lie in the interior of a regular tetrahedron $ABCD$. Prove that angle $PAQ<60^o$.

Solution

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See also

1973 USAMO (ProblemsResources)
Preceded by
First Question
Followed by
Problem 2
1 2 3 4 5
All USAMO Problems and Solutions

Let the side length of the regular tetrahedron be {$a$}. Link and extend AP to meet the plane containing triangle BCD at E; link AQ and extend it to meet the same plane at F. We know that E and F are inside triangle BCD and that ∠PAQ = ∠EAF

Now let’s look at the plane containing triangle BCD with points E and F inside the triangle. Link and extend EF on both sides to meet the sides of the triangle BCD at I and J, I on BC and J on DC. We have ∠EAF < ∠IAJ

But since I and J are on the sides and not on the vertices, IJ {$a$}, ∠IAJ < ∠BAD = 60°. Therefore, ∠PAQ < 60°.