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smc

number theory senior

Problem

Let the product , each factor written in base , equals in base . Let , each term expressed in base . Then , in base , is
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
Solution
Converting everything into base , we have . Looking ahead, the constant term of the polynomial will be . By the Rational Root Theorem, the only possible integer roots are . Bases do not have a as a digit. Testing gives a solution that works. Therefore, we are working in base . Adding the units place in base , , so we carry the to get a total of , which is option .
Final answer
B