Question 1
From a class of 7 students, in how many ways can we select 4 students for a committee?
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 = 7 (total items)
- r = 4 (items to select)
Calculation:
C(7,4) = 7! / [4! × 3!]
= 7! / [24 × 6]
= 5040 / [24 × 6]
= 35
Alternative Method (using simplified calculation):
C(7,4) = (7 × 6 × ... × 4) / 4!
Key Distinction:
- Use COMBINATION when order doesn't matter (selecting)
- Use PERMUTATION when order matters (arranging)
Verification: The answer must be less than 7! 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 = 7 (total items)
- r = 4 (items to select)
Calculation:
C(7,4) = 7! / [4! × 3!]
= 7! / [24 × 6]
= 5040 / [24 × 6]
= 35
Alternative Method (using simplified calculation):
C(7,4) = (7 × 6 × ... × 4) / 4!
Key Distinction:
- Use COMBINATION when order doesn't matter (selecting)
- Use PERMUTATION when order matters (arranging)
Verification: The answer must be less than 7! since we're selecting, not arranging.