Projective Geometry Cross Ratios

Projective Geometry
Arindam Bhattacharyya, Rohan Goyal

28 May 2020
Everyone, please thank Aditya Khurmi for the beautiful diagrams.
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§1 Completing the plane
To convert the Euclide an plane into the Projective plane, we add points at infinity in
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every direction and a line at infinity passing through all the points at infinity. What this
does is now, we have that every pair of lines now intersect as even parallel lines concur
at l∞ .
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§2 Cross Ratio M
§2.1 Points on a line
XA YA
For four collinear points, define the cross ratio (A, B; X, Y ) as XB ÷ YB. The lengths
here are directed and thus the cross ratio can be negative.
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§2.2 Lines passing through a point
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We can define the cross ratio for 4 concurrent lines a, b, x, y as well. Let the lines concur
at a point P . Then, (a, b; x, y) = ± sin ∠(x,a) sin ∠(y,a)
sin ∠(x,b) ÷ sin ∠(y,b) .
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Infact let line l intersect a, b, x, y at A, B, X, Y respectively.Then (a, b; x, y) = (A, B; X, Y )

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y b x a
P
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Y1
B1
A1
g X1
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f X2
B2
A2 Y2
Figure 1: Cross ratio in a pencil of lines
In the above diagram (a, b; x, y) = (A1 , B1 ; X1 , Y1 ) = (A2 , B2 ; X2 , Y2 )
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Arindam Bhattacharyya, Rohan Goyal (28 May 2020) Projective Geometry
§2.3 Points on a conic

The cross-ratio for 4 points A, B, C, D lying on a conic γ is defined as (A, B; C, D) =
(P A, P B; P C, P D) where P is any point on γ.
In the special case in which the conic is a circle, something more is true.The cross-ratio
XA
for 4 concyclic points A, B, X, Y can be defined as ± XB ÷ YY B
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where the sign is negative
if segments AB and XY intersect and positive otherwise.
Exercise 2.1. Prove that

(A, B; X, Y ) = (X, Y ; A, B) = (B, A; X, Y )−1 = (A, B; Y, X)−1 = (B, A; Y, X)
§3 Preserving cross-ratios
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§3.1 Lines to lines
Given lines l, m and points A, B, C, D on l. Pick any point P not on l,let A0 , B 0 , C 0 , D0
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denote the intersections of lines P A, P B, P C, P D with m.Then
P
(A, B; C, D) = (A0 , B 0 , C 0 , D0 )
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This is called taking a perspectivity at P .
0D
0
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0 B0 C
A
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l A B C D
Figure 2: Perspectivity
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§3.2 Conics to line

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Let A, B, C, D, P lie on the conic γ. In this case we project from γ to a line l not through
P so we get
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P
(A, B; C, D) = (P A, P B; P C, P D) = (P A ∩ l, P B ∩ l; P C ∩ l, P D ∩ l)
P
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A0 D0
0
B C
0
l A B C D
Figure 3: Conics to lines
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§3.3 Conics to Conics

If ABCDA0 B 0 C 0 D0 lie on a conic with AA0 , BB 0 , CC 0 , DD0 are concurrent at some point
P then (A, B; C, D) = (A0 , B 0 ; C 0 , D0 )
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§4 Harmonic Bundles
Now,we come to the most important case of cross-ratios. We say that (A, B; X, Y ) is a
harmonic bundle or harmonic range or simply harmonic if (A, B; X.Y ) = −1.
Furthermore,a cyclic quadrilateral ABXY is a harmonic quadrilateral if (A, B; X, Y ) =
−1
Exercise 4.1. Let A, X, B, Y lie on a line in that order such that (A, B; X, Y ) = −1.Let
M be the midpoint of AB. Show that
1. M X.M Y = (M B)2
2. XY.XM = XA.XB
Note that this can be used to indirectly compute power of point, which can be a major
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help in several problems.
§5 Some Lemmas
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Lemma 5.1 (Ceva-Menelaus)
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Let 4ABC have concurrent cevians AD, BE, CF .Let EF ∩BC = T ,then (B, C; D, T )
is harmonic.
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X
F P
T B D C
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Figure 4: Ceva-Menelaus
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Proof. Let the cevians concur at P and let X = AP ∩ EF .Notice that :

P A
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(E, F ; X, T ) = (B, C; D, T ) = (F, E, X, T )
And we’re done by Exercise 2.1

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Lemma 5.2 (Midpoints and Parallel Lines)

Let M be the midpoint of line segment AB and let P∞ be the point at infinity of
line AB. Then (A, B; M, P∞ ) is a harmonic bundle.
Proof. Left as exercise to the reader.
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Lemma 5.3 (Harmonic Quadrilaterals)

Let Γ be a circle and let P be a point outside Γ let X, Y he points on Γ such that
P X, P Y are tangent to Γ. Let ` be a line through P intersecting Γ at points A and
B. Then AXBY is a harmonic quadrilateral , moreover (A, B; Q, P ) is a harmonic
bundle where Q = AB ∩ XY .
Proof. We again use the same trick. Note that

X Y
(A, B; Q, P ) = (A, B; Y, X) = (A, B; P, Q)
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B
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M E
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T D M C
Figure 5: Harmonic Quadrilaterals

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Lemma 5.4 (Right angles and angle bisectors)

Let X, A, Y, B lie on line ` in that order and let P be a point not on `. Then any
two of the following three conditions imply the other.
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1. ∠XP Y = 90◦
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2. P X bisects ∠AP B
3. (A,B;X,Y)=-1
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Proof. Left as exercise to the reader.
Lemma 5.5 (Prism lemma)

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Let lines l, m meet at D.Let A, B, C be distinct points on l and A1 , B1 , C1 be

distinct points on m,all different from D. Then AA1 , BB1 , CC1 are concurrent iff
(A, B; C, D) = (A1 , B1 ; C1 , D).
Let’s quickly kill a few problems
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Example 5.6 (APMO 2013/5)

Let ABCD be a quadrilateral inscribed in a circle ω, and let P be a point on the
extension of AC such that P B and P D are tangent to ω. The tangent at C intersects
P D at Q and the line AD at R. Let E be the second point of intersection between
AQ and ω. Prove that B, E, R are collinear.
Proof. Notice that (A, C; B, D) = −1 and (A, E; D, C) = −1, projecting through R from
ω to ω, we get
R
−1 = (A, E; D, C) = (D, RE ∩ ω; A, C)
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Example 5.7
Let ABCD be cyclic and let E = AB ∩ CD, F = AD ∩ BC, G = AC ∩ BD and let
M be the miquel point of ABCD,given OM ⊥ EF prove that M O bisects ∠AM C.
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Proof. So,since we have angle bisectors and right angles, we try a projective approach.
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Note that (B, C; F, EG ∩ BC) = −1[From lemma 5.1].
−1 = (B, C; F, EG∩BC) = (EB, EC; EF, EG) = (A, C; EF ∩AC, G) = (M A, M C; M F, M G)
And we’re done by Lemma 5.4.

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§6 Pole-Polar
Definition 6.1 (Polar). Let P be a point in the plane. Let ω be a circle in the plane
with center O. Let P ∗ be the inverse of P in ω. Then, the polar of P is defined as the
line passing through P ∗ perpendicular to OP .
Similarly, the pole of a line ` is defined as the inverse of the foot of perpendicular from
O to `.
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A
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H2
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Figure 6: Pole-Polar Diagram
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Theorem 6.2 (La Hire)

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P lies on polar of Q iff Q lies on polar of P .

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You can prove this quite easily, just by cyclic quadrilaterals and angle chasing.
Lemma 6.3 (Harmonic Quadrilaterals)

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(Repeating Lemma 5.3) Let B, C be points on a circle ω. Let the tangents from
B, C to ω intersect at T. Now let A be any point on ω then let D = AT ∩ ω and
K = AT ∩ BC. Then we have-
• (AD; BC) = −1
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• (AD; KT ) = −1
The converse is also true.
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Corollary 6.4
If (AC; BD) = −1 and ω is a circle through A and C, then B lies on polar of D
with respect to ω.
Theorem 6.5 (Brokard)

Let ABCD be a cyclic quadrilateral with circumcenter O. Let P = AB ∩ CD, Q =
AD ∩ BC, R = AC ∩ BD then P QR is self polar with respect to (ABCD) i.e P is
pole of QR, Q is pole of P R and R is pole of P Q.
Importantly, O is orthocenter of BC.
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Proof. Let P R ∩ AD = X, P R ∩ BC = Y . Now, by Ceva induced harmonic bundles, we
have (QX; AD) = −1 and (QY ; BC) = −1. Thus, by Corollary 6.4, X, Y lie on polar of
Q but XY is the same line as P R, thus we are done. Same argument follows for other 2
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parts.
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M D
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Q B Y C
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Figure 7: Brokard’s theorem

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§6.1 Duality
Duals are a very powerful tool that give us the power to do crazy stuff. Here’s what we
mean by dual of a theorem in projective geometry: given a theorem, do the following
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replacements:
1. Points ↔ Lines
2. Collinearity ↔ Concurrency
3. Inconic ↔ Circumconic
Due to La Hire, we have this powerful theorem-
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Theorem 6.6 (Duality)

A claim is true iff its dual is true.
Note. As Ritam mentioned that poles and polars may not be the morally correct way
to think about duals, but for the scope of this handout, we are unable to do much more.
You can use wikipedia1 for a more moral approach.
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duality_(projective_geometry)
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§7 Projective Transforms
An authoritative handout can be found https://math.mit.edu/~notzeb/cross.pdf.
Definition 7.1 (RP1 ). RP1 is the real projective line. Its points are of the form [s : t]
where s, t are real numbers. (These are homogenous coordinates,meaning [s : t] and
[ks : kt] are the same).
Definition 7.2 (CP1 ). CP1 is the complex projective line. Its points are of the form
[s : t] where s, t are complex numbers. (These are homogenous coordinates,meaning [s : t]
and [ks : kt] are the same).
Definition 7.3 (RP2 ). RP2 is the real projective plane. Its points are of the form
[p : q : r] where p, q, r are real numbers. (These are also homogenous coordinates).
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Definition 7.4 (Projective Transformation(homography)). A projective transformation
f : P 7→ P is any transformation of the plane P of points that preserves lines i.e. collinear
points remain collinear as well as cross ratio is preserved in this map.
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Exercise 7.5 (For experts). Try proving these:
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• Every homography f : RP1 7→ RP1 is of the form [s : t] 7→ [as + bt
: cs + dt] where
a b
a, b, c, d are reals or as multiplication with a matrix M = with |M | =
6 0
c d
M
• Every homography f : CP1 7→ CP1 is of form f ([s : t]) = [as + bt : cs+ dt]where
a, b, c, d are complex numbers or as multiplication with a matrix M =
a b
with
c d
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|M | =6 0
• Every homography f : RP2 7→ RP2 can be written in form f ([x : y : z] 7→

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[ax + by + cz : dx + ey + f z : gx + hy + iz]) where

 a, b, c, 
d, e, f, g, h, i are reals or
a b c
equivalently multiplication with a matrix M = d e f  with |M | = 6 0
g h i
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If you don’t want to prove, you are free to take these as granted...
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Theorem 7.6
(in CP1 ,RP1 ) There exists a unique homography taking any three points A, B, C to
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any 3 points X, Y, Z
(A, B, C, X, Y, Z on the projective line.)
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Theorem 7.7
There exists a unique homography(in RP2 ) taking any quadrilateral to another(no 3
points collinear).
Try proving these two theorems on your own.

Hint: You can use degrees of freedom of the structures.
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Theorem 7.8
(in RP2 )If ABCD and W XY Z be quadrilaterals with circumconics ω, γ with as-
sumption that (AB; CD)ω = (W X; Y Z)γ . Then there exists a unique homography
that takes ABCD to W XY Z and ω to γ.
Proof. By Theorem 7.2, we have a unique homography that takes (AB; CD) to (W X; Y Z).
Now, consider any point P on ω. Let Q be the image of P under the homography.
Then, (W X; Y Z)γ = (AB; CD)ω = (P A, P B; P C, P D) = (QW, QX; QY, QZ). But if,
(W X; Y Z)γ = (QX, QY ; QW, QZ), then Q must lie on γ and we are done.
Corollary 7.9 (Some special maps)
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(in RP2 )A couple special examples
• Send any circle to itself and take a point P inside it to any other point Q
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inside the circle.
• Preserve a conic while sending any inscribed triangle to another
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§7.1 Projective conditions
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Projective conditions are those conditons which are preserved by projective transforms.
Here are a few examples:
1. Cross-ratios
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2. Collinearity
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3. Concurrence
4. Tangencies
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5. Intersections
Here are a few non-projective conditions:
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1. Lines being perpendicular
2. Lengths being equal

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3. Angles being equal
4. Lines being parallel
5. Points lying on a circle

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6. Triangles being similar/congruent
7. Areas being equal, etc

Although these are non-projective conditions, often these can be converted into projective
conditions by using a suitable lemma.The lines being parallel condition can be converted
to a projective condition by adding another line parallel to both and turning it into a
concurrency condition,the concyclic condition can often be just removed which leads to a
much stronger version of the given problem.
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§8 Other Important theorems
Theorem 8.1 (Pascal’s Thoerem)

Let A, B, C, D, E, F be points on a conica Γ, then we have that AB ∩ DE, BC ∩
EF, CD ∩ F A are collinear.
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Most olympiad problems just care about circles
Proof. Let X = BC∩EF, Y = CD∩F A, Z = AB∩DE, P = AF ∩BC and Q = AB∩CD.

Then, we have the following cross ratio chase-
F D Y
(CX; P B) = (CE; AB)Γ = (QZ; AB) = (C, Y Z ∩ BC; P B)
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Thus, Y Z ∩ BC = X. Done!
Exercise 8.2. Try Pascal’s on point tuples like (A, A, B, C, D, E), (A, A, B, B, C, D),
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(A, A, B, B, C, C) and see what happens.
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Theorem 8.3 (Brianchon’s Theorem)
Given a hexagon(possibly self intersecting) with inconic Γ we have that AD, BE, CF
are concurrent.
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Proof. Take Dual of theorem to get something very familiar.
Theorem 8.4 (Desargue’s Theorem)

Given two perspective triangles A1 B1 C1 , A2 B2 C2 i.e A1 A2 , B1 B2 , C1 C2 are concur-
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rent, then we have that A1 B1 ∩ A2 B2 , B1 C1 ∩ B2 C2 , A1 C1 ∩ A2 C2 are collinear.

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Proof. Take the dual of the perspectivity condition and see what happens.
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Theorem 8.5 (Dual Desargues’s Theorem)

Just the converse of Desargues, i.e. if A1 B1 ∩ A2 B2 , B1 C1 ∩ B2 C2 , A1 C1 ∩ A2 C2 are
collinear then A1 A2 , B1 B2 , C1 C2 are concurrent.
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Proof. You proved Desargues right?

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Theorem 8.6 (Butterfly Theorem)

Let AB, CD, P Q be chords of a circle concurrent at M . Let X = P Q ∩ AD and
Y = P Q ∩ BC. If M P = M Q then M X = M Y .
Proof. You can do this, try chasing cross ratios or if you don’t want to then just DIT or
take a homography and move on with your life.
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§9 Nukes
Theorem 9.1 (Poncelet’s Porism)

Given two conics γ and ω, let A1 be a point on γ, let the tangent to ω through A1
meet γ at A2 , keep on continuing this process until you end up on An+1 = A1 .If
this process stops, a n − gon is created with circumconic γ and inconic ω.Poncelet’s
porism states that the value of n is independent of the choice of A1 and indpendent
of A1 , the porism always exists iff it exists for one choice of A1 .
§9.1 DIT/DDIT
In this section, we will present the nukes commonly known as DIT and DDIT but before
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that let’s go over some definitions2 :(
Definition 9.2 (Involutions). An involution is a projective tranformation f : P 7→ P
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such that f (f (P ) = P ∀P ∈ P.
Note. In general, involutions refer to any functions f such that f 2 = id but for this
handout we only care about projective transforms that are involutions.
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Note (For experts). We know homographies f : CP1 7→ CP1 are functions of the form
f (z) = az+b
cz+d , involutions are just special cases where a + d = 0.
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Lemma 9.3 (Involutions on lines)
All involution on lines are inversions/negative inversions or reflections.
You can try proving the above note as a hint.

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Corollary 9.4
If P, Q, R, S are points on a line ` such that P 6= S, Q =
6 R then there is a unique
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involution τ on ` satisfying τ (P ) = Q, τ (R) = S.

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You can try to show the uniqueness using the degrees of freedom of an involution and
the fact that atleast one involution exists can be shown directly :d
Finally, we get to the nuke-
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Theorem 9.5 (Desargues Involution Theorem)

Let ABCD be a quadrilateral with circumconic γ and ` be any line in the plane.
Then, there exists a unique involution τ swapping-
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• The two intersections of ` with γ
• ` ∩ AB ↔ ` ∩ CD
• ` ∩ AC ↔ ` ∩ BD
• ` ∩ AD ↔ ` ∩ BC
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Ripped off from https://artofproblemsolving.com/community/c738838h1806500
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Proof. Why would you want to prove a nuke!? okay you weirdo-
Let, X1 = ` ∩ AB, X2 = ` ∩ CD, W1 , W2 = ` ∩ γ, Y1 = ` ∩ AD, Y2 = ` ∩ BC, Z1 =
` ∩ BC, Z2 = ` ∩ AC.
By above corollary, we have a unique involution swapping X1 , X2 and W1 , W2 . Now,
again we chase cross ratios-
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(X2 τ (Y1 ); W2 W1 ) = (X1 Y1 ; W1 W2 ) = (BD; W1 W2 ) = (Y2 X2 ; W1 W2 ) = (X2 Y2 ; W2 W1 )
Thus, we have τ (Y1 ) = Y2 . Similarly, τ (Z1 ) = Z2 and we’re done!
X1
A
B
C
Y1
W1
Z2
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Z1
Y2
W2
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X2
D
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Figure 8: Desargues Involution Theorem

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Theorem 9.6 (Dual Desargues Involution Theorem(DDIT))

Let ABCDEF be a complete quadrilateral with inconic γ and let P be any point
in the plane not on any side of ABCDEF . Then there exists a unique involution τ
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swapping-
• the two tangents from P to γ

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• PA ↔ PC
• PB ↔ PD
• PE ↔ PF
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Proof. It’s just the dual of DIT.
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§10 Contest Examples
Example 10.1 (China TST 2 2017/3)

Let ABCD be a quadrilateral and let l be a line. Let l intersect the lines
AB, CD, BC, DA, AC, BD at points X, X 0 , Y, Y 0 , Z, Z 0 respectively. Given that
these six points on l are in the order X, Y, Z, X 0 , Y 0 , Z 0 , show that the circles with
diameter XX 0 , Y Y 0 , ZZ 0 are coaxial.
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A Y
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X0 M C
Y0
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Figure 9: China TST 2017/3
Proof. By DIT, we have that there is an involution swapping X ↔ X 0 , Y ↔ Y 0 , Z ↔ Z 0

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and we also know that all involutions along a line are just inversions. Let the center
of inversion be O, then OX · OX 0 = OY · OY 0 = OZ · OZ 0 . Thus, O must lie on all
the radical axes. But, all radical axes are perpendicular to `, thus all the circles are
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coaxial.
Example 10.2 (Iran TST 2008/2)

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Suppose that I is incenter of triangle ABC and l0 is a line tangent to the incircle.
Let l be another line such that intersects AB, AC, BC respectively at C 0 , B 0 , A0 . We
draw a tangent from A0 to the incircle other than BC, and this line intersects with
l0 at A1 . B1 , C1 are similarly defined. Prove that AA1 , BB1 , CC1 are concurrent.
Proof. (Due to Telv Cohl, unedited) From Brianchon theorem (for A0 CAC 0 C1 A1 and
B 0 ABA0 A1 B1 ) we get AA1 , BB1 , CC1 , l are concurrent.
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A A1
`
B0
C0 B1
A0 B C
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C1
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Figure 10: Brianchon is too cool
Example 10.3 (APMO 2008/3)

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Let Γ be the circumcircle of a triangle ABC. A circle passing through points A and
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C meets the sides BC and BA at D and E, respectively. The lines AD and CE
meet Γ again at G and H, respectively. The tangent lines of Γ at A and C meet the
line DE at L and M , respectively. Prove that the lines LH and M G meet at Γ.
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We will present two proofs

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B K
G
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L H M
E D
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A O C
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Figure 11: Homgraphy proof
Cheating Proof. Ignore the ACDE cyclic. Let AD ∩ CE = F . Let BF ∩ AC = O. Consider

the projective transformation that preserves (ABC) and takes O to the center
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of Γ. Thus, we get a right angle triangle with AC diameter. BO is median so

DE k AC. Thus, ACML is a rectangle. ∠AHE = ∠ALE = 90 =⇒ ALHE
cyclic. Similarly, CM GD cyclic. Let LH ∩ M G = K. Then, ∠HKG = ∠LKM =
180 − ∠HAB − ∠GCB = ∠180 − ∠HAG =⇒ HAGK cyclic. Thus, K lies on Γ.
Hence, proved.
Pascal’s Proof. Let AC ∩ EM = J By Pascal’s on A, G, M G ∩ Γ, B, C, C, we get that

M G∩Γ = BJ ∩Γ. Similarly, by Pascal’s on A, A, H, GM ∩ΓB, C, we get GM ∩Γ =
BJ ∩ Γ. Thus, we must have that EH, GM concur on Γ.
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H
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B
D
M C
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Figure 12: Pascal proof diagram

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Example 10.4 (AOPS)

Let P QRS be an isosceles trapezium with P Q k RS, and Ω be its circumcircle. Let
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X be a point on the arc P Q or RS of Ω, and Y be a point on the segment P Q.

Also, Let XY ∩ RS = A, P A ∩ SX = B, QA ∩ RX = C. Then Y is the midpoint of
segment P Q if and only if XY , BR, CS are concurrent.
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Proof. (Due to Aditya Khurmi) Let Z = CB ∩ SR and U be the point at infinity of P Q.

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Also, let M = Y C ∩ BS and N = Y B ∩ RC. Now, (P, Q; Y, U ) = (B, C; K, Z). Clearly,
Y is the midpoint of P Q if and only if (P, Q; Y, U ) = −1. Also, (B, C; K, Z) = −1 if and
only if M, N, Z are collinear (as BM, CN, Y K are concurrent cevians of 4Y CB)
Hence, Y is the midpoint of P Q ⇔ M, N, Z are collinear.
Now, 4Y CB and 4XSR are perspective from the line M N Z and so M, N, Z are
collinear ⇔ XY, BR, CS are concurrent, giving the desired result.
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P Y Q
Z
S A R
M N
X
B
K
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Figure 13: AOPS Desargues Instructive Problem
Example 10.5 (Serbia 2017/6)
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Let k be the circumcircle of 4ABC and let ka be A-excircle .Let the two common
tangents of k, ka cut BC in P, Q.Prove that ]P AB = ]CAQ.
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Proof. Let the two tangents intersect at D and let E be the touchpoint of the A-excircle
with BC. Now, from DDIT on quadrilateral AEBC with point Z and conic A-excircle,
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we get (ZA, ZE), (ZB, ZC), (ZP, ZQ) switched by some involution. Projecting onto BC
we get (ZA ∩ BC, E), (B, C), (P, Q) paired by some involution. Now, B,C are paired by
isogonality from A. Now, if we show AZ ∩(ABC) is the A-mixtillinear, touch point we will
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be done as then AZ ∩ BC, E will also be isogonal pairs. Let M be the A − mixtillinear
circle touch point. Then, by Monge’s theorem on the A-excircle, A-mixtillinear circlea
and circumcircle we get desired result.
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P D C
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Figure 14: Scary Diagram
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§11 Contest Practice

It’s not recommended to solve or even attempt all problems. Just pick the ones you like
and look pretty and try to solve them. Some problems are honestly hard so don’t worry
if you are unable to solve.
Problem 11.1 (Canada 1994). Let ABC be an acute triangle. Let AD be the altitude on
BC, and let H be any interior point on AD. Lines BH and CH, when extended, intersect
AC, AB at E and F respectively. Prove that ∠EDH = ∠F DH.
Problem 11.2 (IMO 2012/1). Given triangle ABC the point J is the centre of the
excircle opposite the vertex A. This excircle is tangent to the side BC at M , and to the
lines AB and AC at K and L, respectively. The lines LM and BJ meet at F , and the
lines KM and CJ meet at G. Let S be the point of intersection of the lines AF and
C
BC, and let T be the point of intersection of the lines AG and BC. Prove that M is the
midpoint of ST.
(The excircle of ABC opposite the vertex A is the circle that is tangent to the line
T
segment BC, to the ray AB beyond B, and to the ray AC beyond C.)
Problem 11.3 (Sharygin 2013/7). Let BD be a bisector of triangle ABC. Points Ia , Ic
are the incenters of triangles ABD, CBD respectively. The line Ia Ic meets AC in point
O
Q. Prove that ∠DBQ = 90◦ .
Problem 11.4 (Sloth Blocking Ruler). You have a large sheet of paper in which three
M
marked points A, B, C are collinear in that order. You want to construct line ABC with
your straightedge, but a cute sloth is sleeping peacefully on the paper and obstructing
the segment BC. Determine how to extend ray AB past C without disturbing the sloth
(with straightedge alone).
I
Problem 11.5 (Hong Kong TST 2018/3/2). Given triangle ABC, let D be an inner
point of segment BC. Let P and Q be distinct inner points of the segment AD. Let
al
K = BP ∩ AC, L = CP ∩ AB, E = BQ ∩ AC, F = CQ ∩ AB. Given that KL k EF , find

all possible values of the ratio BD : DC.
Problem 11.6 (Sharygin 2013/18). Let AD be a bisector of triangle ABC. Points M
ci
and N are projections of B and C respectively to AD. The circle with diameter M N
intersects BC at points X and Y . Prove that ∠BAX = ∠CAY .
ffi
Problem 11.7 (USAJMO 2011/5). Points A, B, C, D, E lie on a circle ω and point P

lies outside the circle. The given points are such that (i) lines P B and P D are tangent
to ω, (ii) P, A, C are collinear, and (iii) DE k AC. Prove that BE bisects AC.
no
Problem 11.8 (Iran MO 2002). Let ABC be a triangle. The incircle of triangle ABC
touches the side BC at A0 , and the line AA0 meets the incircle again at a point P . Let
the lines CP and BP meet the incircle of triangle ABC again at N and M , respectively.
Prove that the lines AA0 , BN and CM are concurrent.
U
Problem 11.9 (AOPS). ABCD is a convex quadrilateral with inscribed incircle O. Let
E, F , G, H and M be the intersection of the straight line pairs (AB, CD), (AC, BD) ,
(AD, BC) ,(OG, EF ), (AC, EF ) respectively. AGB is the angle bisector, cuts AB at K
and M K cuts BC at L.
Prove that HL is the angle bisector of BHC.
Problem 11.10 (China TST 2002/1). Let E and F be the intersections of opposite
sides of a convex quadrilateral ABCD. The two diagonals meet at P . Let O be the foot
of the perpendicular from P to EF . Show that ∠BOC = ∠AOD.
19
Problem 11.11 (Romania TST 2008/4/1). Let ABCD be a convex quadrilateral and
let O ∈ AC ∩ BD, P ∈ AB ∩ CD, Q ∈ BC ∩ DA. If R is the orthogonal projection of O
on the line P Q prove that the orthogonal projections of R on the sidelines of ABCD are
concyclic.
Problem 11.12 (Romania TST 2012/3). Let γ be a circle and l a line in its plane. Let
K be a point on l, located outside of γ. Let KA and KB be the tangents from K to γ,
where A and B are distinct points on γ. Let P and Q be two points on γ. Lines P A and
P B intersect line l in two points R and respectively S. Lines QR and QS intersect the
second time circle γ in points C and D. Prove that the tangents from C and D to γ are
concurrent on line l.
Problem 11.13 (Self-Polar Orthogonality). Let ω be a circle and P, Q be points such
that P lies on the polar of Q w.r.t ω. Prove that the circle with diameter P Q is orthogonal
C
to ω.
Problem 11.14 (Micheal Villiers). Let ABCDEF be a hexagon with opposite sides
T
parallel. Prove that the three lines joining the midpoints of opposites sides are concurrent.
Problem 11.15. Given a complete quadrilateral ABCDEF with ABCD cyclic. Let
M, N be midpoints of AB, CD and P = M N ∩ AC and let Q be the foot of perpendicular
O
from F onto OE. Prove that AM P Q is cyclic.
Problem 11.16 (ISL 2011/G4). Let ABC be an acute triangle with circumcircle Ω.
M
Let B0 be the midpoint of AC and let C0 be the midpoint of AB. Let D be the foot of
the altitude from A and let G be the centroid of the triangle ABC. Let ω be a circle
through B0 and C0 that is tangent to the circle Ω at a point X 6= A. Prove that the
points D, G and X are collinear.
I
Problem 11.17 (ISL 2017 G1). Let ABCDE be a convex pentagon such that AB =
BC = CD, ∠EAB = ∠BCD, and ∠EDC = ∠CBA. Prove that the perpendicular line
al
from E to BC and the line segments AC and BD are concurrent.

Problem 11.18 (ISL 2007 G5). Let ABC be a fixed triangle, and let A1 , B1 , C1
be the midpoints of sides BC, CA, AB, respectively. Let P be a variable point on
ci
the circumcircle. Let lines P A1 , P B1 , P C1 meet the circumcircle again at A0 , B 0 , C 0 ,

respectively. Assume that the points A, B, C, A0 , B 0 , C 0 are distinct, and lines AA0 ,
BB 0 , CC 0 form a triangle. Prove that the area of this triangle does not depend on P .
ffi
Problem 11.19 (USA January TST 2015/3). Let ABC be a non-equilateral triangle
and let Ma , Mb , Mc be the midpoints of the sides BC, CA, AB, respectively. Let S be a
no
point lying on the Euler line. Denote by X, Y , Z the second intersections of Ma S, Mb S,

Mc S with the nine-point circle. Prove that AX, BY , CZ are concurrent.
Problem 11.20 (RMM 2012/6). Let ABC be a triangle and let I and O denote its
incentre and circumcentre respectively. Let ωA be the circle through B and C which is
U
tangent to the incircle of the triangle ABC; the circles ωB and ωC are defined similarly.
The circles ωB and ωC meet at a point A0 distinct from A; the points B 0 and C 0 are
defined similarly. Prove that the lines AA0 , BB 0 and CC 0 are concurrent at a point on
the line IO.
Problem 11.21 (ISL 2004/G8). Given a cyclic quadrilateral ABCD, let M be the
midpoint of the side CD, and let N be a point on the circumcircle of triangle ABM .
AN AM
Assume that the point N is different from the point M and satisfies BN = BM . Prove
that the points E, F , N are collinear, where E = AC ∩ BD and F = BC ∩ DA.
20
Problem 11.22 (MOP 2013). Let ABC be an acute scalene triangle, and let H be a
point inside it such that AH ⊥ BC. Rays BH and CH meet AC and AB at E, F. Prove
that if quadrilateral BFEC is cyclic then H is in fact the orthocenter of ABC.
Problem 11.23 (ELMOSL 2012/3). ABC is a triangle with incenter I. The foot of the
perpendicular from I to BC is D, and the foot of the perpendicular from I to AD is P .
Prove that ∠BP D = ∠DP C.
Problem 11.24 (Aatman Supkar). The feet of B, C angle bisectors on 4ABC are E, F
respectively. The common tangents to (ABC) and the A-excircle meet (ABC) at
G, H with G closer to B. Prove that E, F, G, H are collinear.
Problem 11.25 (Sharygin 2012/20). Point D lies on side AB of triangle ABC. Let ω1
and Ω1 , ω2 and Ω2 be the incircles and the excircles (touching segment AB) of triangles
C
ACD and BCD. Prove that the common external tangents to ω1 and ω2 , Ω1 and Ω2
meet on AB.
T
Problem 11.26 (Sharygin 2013/20). Let C1 be an arbitrary point on the side AB of
triangle ABC. Points A1 and B1 on the rays BC and AC are such that ∠AC1 B1 =
∠BC1 A1 = ∠ACB. The lines AA1 and BB1 meet in point C2 . Prove that all the lines
O
C1 C2 have a common point.
Problem 11.27 (SORY P6). Let ABC be a triangle with incenter I. Let the incircle
be tangent to the sides BC, CA, AB at D, E, F respectively. Let P be the foot of the
M
perpendicular from D onto EF. Assume that BP, CP intersect the sides AC, AB in
Y, Z respectively. Finally, let the rays IP, Y Z meet the circumcircle of 4ABC in R, X
respectively.
I
Prove that the tangent from X to the incircle and the line RD meet on the circumcircle
of 4ABC.
al
Problem 11.28 (RMM 2013/3). Let ABCD be a quadrilateral inscribed in a circle ω.

The lines AB and CD meet at P , the lines AD and BC meet at Q, and the diagonals
AC and BD meet at R. Let M be the midpoint of the segment P Q, and let K be the
ci
common point of the segment M R and the circle ω. Prove that the circumcircle of the
triangle KP Q and ω are tangent to one another.
ffi
Problem 11.29 (Taiwan TST Quiz 3/3/2 2015). In a scalene triangle ABC with incenter
I, the incircle is tangent to sides CA and AB at points E and F . The tangents to the
circumcircle of triangle AEF at E and F meet at S. Lines EF and BC intersect at T .
Prove that the circle with diameter ST is orthogonal to the nine-point circle of triangle
no
BIC.
Problem 11.30. Let ABC triangle with orthic triangle DEF . Let T = EF ∩ BC.
Let perpendicular to BC at B meet DF at X. Similarly define Y . Prove that X, Y, T
U
collinear.
Problem 11.31 (USATSTST 2016/6). Let ABC be a triangle with incenter I, and
whose incircle is tangent to BC, CA, AB at D, E, F , respectively. Let K be the foot of
the altitude from D to EF . Suppose that the circumcircle of 4AIB meets the incircle at
two distinct points C1 and C2 , while the circumcircle of 4AIC meets the incircle at two
distinct points B1 and B2 . Prove that the radical axis of the circumcircles of 4BB1 B2
and 4CC1 C2 passes through the midpoint M of DK.
21
Problem 11.32 (ISL 2012/G8). Let ABC be a triangle with circumcircle ω and ` a
line without common points with ω. Denote by P the foot of the perpendicular from the
center of ω to `. The side-lines BC, CA, AB intersect ` at the points X, Y, Z different
from P . Prove that the circumcircles of the triangles AXP , BY P and CZP have a
common point different from P or are mutually tangent at P .
C
T
O
I M
al
ci
ffi
no
U
22
§12 Conclusion/Post-Lecture/References
The problems towards the end are quite hard so don’t worry if you have trouble solving
them and the theory on projective geo can get a bit much if you have no previous intro
and study from such an abridged document. Feel free to ask us any doubts.
Some resources we really liked and used extensively to prepare this handout can be found
here-
• Euclidian Geometry in Mathematical Olympiads by Evan Chen
• Lemmas in Olympiad Geometry by Pohoata, Korsky, Andreescu
• Geometry of Conics by Akopyan, Zaslavsky
C
• http://services.artofproblemsolving.com/download.php?id=YXR0YWNobWVudHMvZS9jLzYzYWY3
=&rn=ZGVzYXJndWVzLWludm9sdXRpb24tdGhlb3JlbS5wZGY=
T
• https://artofproblemsolving.com/community/c738838h1806500
• https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G75rxI_yrRQI8kkdeJ9XwqWpBV3ZHMJI/view
O
• https://math.mit.edu/~notzeb/cross.pdf
• http://yufeizhao.com/olympiad/cyclic_quad.pdf
M
• https://cjquines.com/files/pascals.pdf
• http://e.math.hr/afine/planegeo.pdf
I
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homography
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duality_(projective_geometry)
al
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_projective_line
• Various posts on AoPS

ci
§12.1 Acknowledgements
ffi
• Thanks to Aatman and Ritam as well for conducting this awesome camp despite
the current situation.
• Thanks to Shourya and Aatman for proofreading the handout.

no
• Thanks to Bhavya Tiwari for his helpful suggestions as well.
• Special thanks to Anant Mudgal and Rishabh Dhiman for clearing our doubts while
U
making this handout.
• Special thanks to Ritam for his careful reading, insights and help in this handout.
• Thanks to Aditya Khurmi for all the beautiful diagrams and help.
• Thanks to Evan Chen for his very cool sty file which we used shamelessly and
for immense help in our understanding of the theory through OTIS and his book
EGMO :)
23

Projective Geometry Cross Ratios

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Projective Geometry Cross Ratios

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Projective Geometry

Arindam Bhattacharyya, Rohan Goyal

Everyone, please thank Aditya Khurmi for the beautiful diagrams.

Infact let line l intersect a, b, x, y at A, B, X, Y respectively.Then (a, b; x, y) = (A, B; X, Y )

Figure 1: Cross ratio in a pencil of lines

In the above diagram (a, b; x, y) = (A1 , B1 ; X1 , Y1 ) = (A2 , B2 ; X2 , Y2 )

§2.3 Points on a conic

Exercise 2.1. Prove that

§3.2 Conics to line

Figure 3: Conics to lines

§3.3 Conics to Conics

Proof. Let the cevians concur at P and let X = AP ∩ EF .Notice that :

(E, F ; X, T ) = (B, C; D, T ) = (F, E, X, T )

And we’re done by Exercise 2.1

Lemma 5.2 (Midpoints and Parallel Lines)

Proof. Left as exercise to the reader.

Lemma 5.3 (Harmonic Quadrilaterals)

Proof. We again use the same trick. Note that

Figure 5: Harmonic Quadrilaterals

Lemma 5.4 (Right angles and angle bisectors)

Proof. Left as exercise to the reader.

Lemma 5.5 (Prism lemma)

Let lines l, m meet at D.Let A, B, C be distinct points on l and A1 , B1 , C1 be

Let’s quickly kill a few problems

Example 5.6 (APMO 2013/5)

−1 = (B, C; F, EG∩BC) = (EB, EC; EF, EG) = (A, C; EF ∩AC, G) = (M A, M C; M F, M G)

And we’re done by Lemma 5.4.

Theorem 6.2 (La Hire)

P lies on polar of Q iff Q lies on polar of P .

Lemma 6.3 (Harmonic Quadrilaterals)

The converse is also true.

Theorem 6.5 (Brokard)

Figure 7: Brokard’s theorem

Due to La Hire, we have this powerful theorem-

Theorem 6.6 (Duality)

• Every homography f : RP2 7→ RP2 can be written in form f ([x : y : z] 7→

[ax + by + cz : dx + ey + f z : gx + hy + iz]) where

Try proving these two theorems on your own.

Corollary 7.9 (Some special maps)

• Preserve a conic while sending any inscribed triangle to another

1. Lines being perpendicular

2. Lengths being equal

3. Angles being equal

4. Lines being parallel

5. Points lying on a circle

6. Triangles being similar/congruent

7. Areas being equal, etc

§8 Other Important theorems

Theorem 8.1 (Pascal’s Thoerem)

Proof. Let X = BC∩EF, Y = CD∩F A, Z = AB∩DE, P = AF ∩BC and Q = AB∩CD.

Theorem 8.4 (Desargue’s Theorem)

rent, then we have that A1 B1 ∩ A2 B2 , B1 C1 ∩ B2 C2 , A1 C1 ∩ A2 C2 are collinear.

Theorem 8.5 (Dual Desargues’s Theorem)

Proof. You proved Desargues right?

Theorem 8.6 (Butterfly Theorem)

Theorem 9.1 (Poncelet’s Porism)

You can try proving the above note as a hint.

involution τ on ` satisfying τ (P ) = Q, τ (R) = S.

Theorem 9.5 (Desargues Involution Theorem)

• The two intersections of ` with γ

Thus, we have τ (Y1 ) = Y2 . Similarly, τ (Z1 ) = Z2 and we’re done!

Figure 8: Desargues Involution Theorem

Theorem 9.6 (Dual Desargues Involution Theorem(DDIT))