Question 1
From a group of 9 friends, in how many ways can we choose 3 friends to invite?
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 = 9 (total items)
- r = 3 (items to select)
Calculation:
C(9,3) = 9! / [3! × 6!]
= 9! / [6 × 720]
= 362880 / [6 × 720]
= 84
Alternative Method (using simplified calculation):
C(9,3) = (9 × 8 × ... × 7) / 3!
Key Distinction:
- Use COMBINATION when order doesn't matter (selecting)
- Use PERMUTATION when order matters (arranging)
Verification: The answer must be less than 9! 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 = 9 (total items)
- r = 3 (items to select)
Calculation:
C(9,3) = 9! / [3! × 6!]
= 9! / [6 × 720]
= 362880 / [6 × 720]
= 84
Alternative Method (using simplified calculation):
C(9,3) = (9 × 8 × ... × 7) / 3!
Key Distinction:
- Use COMBINATION when order doesn't matter (selecting)
- Use PERMUTATION when order matters (arranging)
Verification: The answer must be less than 9! since we're selecting, not arranging.