A finite number of parallel segments in the plane are given with the property that for any three of the segments there is a line intersecting each of them. Prove that there exists a line that intersects all the given segments.
Solution
1. Setup and Assumptions:
Suppose there are parallel segments in the plane, all parallel to the x-axis. Assume that the segments are ordered such that is above for all , and is the left endpoint while is the right endpoint of the segment.
2. **Initial Line **:
Consider a line that joins and for some . We choose such that all points (for ) are either on or to the right of . This is possible because if any lies to the left of , we can choose and repeat the process until all are to the right of .
3. **Position of Relative to **:
Now, if there exists an such that lies to the right of , then there would be no line passing through the segments , which contradicts the given condition. Therefore, all (for ) must lie to the left of .
4. **Line **:
Next, consider a line that joins and for some . We choose such that all points (for ) lie to the left of .
5. **Position of Relative to **:
If there exists a (for ) that lies to the left of , we consider a line that joins and for some . We choose such that all points (for ) lie to the right of . If no such exists, let .
6. **Final Line **:
Now, all (for ) lie to the right of , and all (for ) lie to the left of . Thus, intersects all the segments .
Therefore, we have shown that there exists a line that intersects all the given segments.