Maths Olympiad Prep

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Combinatorics Difficulty 6.7 National olympiad Find the answer

The digits of a calculator (with the exception of 0) are shown in the form indicated by the figure below, where there is also a button ``+":
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Two players AA and BB play in the following manner: AA turns on the calculator and presses a digit, and then presses the button ``+". AA passes the calculator to BB, which presses a digit in the same row or column with the one pressed by AA that is not the same as the last one pressed by AA; and then presses + and returns the calculator to AA, repeating the operation in this manner successively. The first player that reaches or exceeds the sum of 31 loses the game. Which of the two players have a winning strategy and what is it?

A number or a short expression. Spacing and $ signs are ignored.

Solution

To determine which player has a winning strategy in the given game, we need to analyze the possible moves and outcomes strategically. The setup on the calculator presents us with a logical and combinatorial game theory problem. The key to solving this is to determine which player can force a win by controlling the game flow.

### Strategy Analysis

1. Game Setup Description:

- The calculator is arranged in a 3x3 grid (ignoring the digit '0'), and moves are restricted to same-row or same-column digits, except the last digit pressed.
- The target is to avoid being the first player to reach or exceed a sum of 31.

2. Initial Strategy:

- Player AA starts by selecting any digit and then presses "+". The choice of this initial digit influences the subsequent moves available to both players.
- Player BB, having knowledge of AA's move, selects a digit in the same row or column, ensuring it is different from the last digit chosen by AA.

3. Player B's Winning Strategy:

- Response Moves for Player B:
- Player BB aims to maintain symmetry and control over the game's pace. By always keeping the sum defensive and avoiding reaching 31, BB can enforce decisions on AA.
- For each number XX chosen by AA, player BB should choose 10X10-X, thus keeping increments under controlled pace.

4. Ensuring the Opponent Exceeds 31:

- The sum of choices by AA and responding moves by BB should always land just under critical thresholds (e.g., 10, 20, 30) before passing the calculator back to AA.
- Player BB uses mirroring tactics to settle AA into a sum of 31, forcing AA into a position of inevitability.

### Conclusion

Through a strategic understanding of move responses and taking advantage of symmetrical gameplay, Player BB can maintain control over the game. Given that Player BB does not begin the game and can choose responses tactically to restrict Player AA's winning paths, Player BB possesses a definitive strategy to win.

Thus, the answer is:
Player B has a winning strategy. \boxed{\text{Player } B \text{ has a winning strategy.}}

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Source: Omni-MATH, licensed Apache-2.0. Statement and solution reproduced as published; topic and difficulty added by this site.