Question 1
From 8 colors, in how many ways can we select 3 colors for a design?
Step-by-Step Solution:
Concept: This is a combination problem because the order of selection doesn't matter.
Formula: C(n,r) = n! / [r!(n-r)!]
Given:
- n = 8 (total items)
- r = 3 (items to select)
Calculation:
C(8,3) = 8! / [3! × 5!]
= 8! / [6 × 120]
= 40320 / [6 × 120]
= 56
Alternative Method (using simplified calculation):
C(8,3) = (8 × 7 × ... × 6) / 3!
Key Distinction:
- Use COMBINATION when order doesn't matter (selecting)
- Use PERMUTATION when order matters (arranging)
Verification: The answer must be less than 8! since we're selecting, not arranging.
Concept: This is a combination problem because the order of selection doesn't matter.
Formula: C(n,r) = n! / [r!(n-r)!]
Given:
- n = 8 (total items)
- r = 3 (items to select)
Calculation:
C(8,3) = 8! / [3! × 5!]
= 8! / [6 × 120]
= 40320 / [6 × 120]
= 56
Alternative Method (using simplified calculation):
C(8,3) = (8 × 7 × ... × 6) / 3!
Key Distinction:
- Use COMBINATION when order doesn't matter (selecting)
- Use PERMUTATION when order matters (arranging)
Verification: The answer must be less than 8! since we're selecting, not arranging.