2019 AMC 12A Problem 8
Problem 8 of 25EasierCounting & Probability
For a set of four distinct lines in a plane, there are exactly distinct points that lie on two or more of the lines. What is the sum of all possible values of
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Solution
The values and occur when all four lines are parallel or all four are concurrent. Three parallel lines crossed by a fourth give points. Three concurrent lines together with a fourth line not through their common point give One parallel pair with no three concurrent gives and four lines in general position give
The value is impossible. Once two lines meet at a third line not through creates at least one new intersection; a fourth distinct line must then create another new point. If every remaining line passes through there is only one intersection point instead. Thus the achievable values are whose sum is
Thus, the correct answer is D.