Problem

Source: 2017 Saudi Arabia JBMO TST 2.1

Tags: polynomial, algebra



Given a polynomial $f(x) = x^4+ax^3+bx^2+cx$. It is known that each of the equations $f(x) = 1$ and $f(x) = 2$ has four real roots (not necessarily distinct). Prove that if the roots of the first equation satisfy the equality $x_1 + x_2 = x_3 + x_4$, then the same equation holds for the roots of the second equation