MathDB
A travelling beetle

Source: 44th International Tournament of Towns, Senior A-Level P4, Fall 2022

February 16, 2023
boardcombinatoricsTournament of Towns

Problem Statement

In a checkered square, there is a closed door between any two cells adjacent by side. A beetle starts from some cell and travels through cells, passing through doors; she opens a closed door in the direction she is moving and leaves that door open. Through an open door, the beetle can only pass in the direction the door is opened. Prove that if at any moment the beetle wants to return to the starting cell, it is possible for her to do that.