MathLabs

Problem 2

Consider a convex polyhedron P1P_1 with nine vertices A1,A2,…,A9A_1,A_2,\ldots,A_9. Let PiP_i be obtained from P1P_1 by a translation that moves A1A_1 to AiA_i (i=2,3,…,9i=2,3,\ldots,9). Prove that at least two of P1,P2,…,P9P_1,P_2,\ldots,P_9 have an interior point in common.
Step 1 of 4: Normalize the translations
A1=0,Pi=Ai+P1A_1=0,\qquad P_i=A_i+P_1
Detailed analysis

Translate the coordinate system so that A1=0A_1=0. The translation carrying A1A_1 to AiA_i has vector AiA_i, hence Pi=Ai+P1P_i=A_i+P_1 for i=1,…,9i=1,\ldots,9, with A1=0A_1=0 giving P1P_1 itself.