2004 AMC 12B Problem 2

Below is the professionally curated solution for Problem 2 of the 2004 AMC 12B, from LIVE by Po-Shen Loh. You can also try the full timed exam, view all 2004 AMC 12B solutions, or check the answer key.

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Concepts:optimization casework

Difficulty rating: 1000

In the expression $c \cdot a^b - d,$ the values of $a, b, c,$ and $d$ are $0, 1, 2,$ and $3,$ although not necessarily in that order. What is the maximum possible value of the result?

$5$

$6$

$8$

$9$

$10$

Solution:

To maximize, set $d = 0.$ With $a, b, c$ taking $1, 2, 3,$ the term $c \cdot a^b$ is largest when $c = 1$ and $a^b = 3^2 = 9.$ This gives $1 \cdot 9 - 0 = 9,$ which beats $2^3 = 8$ and the other assignments.

Thus, the correct answer is D.

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