Probability solve the expression P(2n+4,3) = 2/3P(n+4,4) for n

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves solving the expression P(2n + 4, 3) = 2/3P(n + 4, 4) for n, where P(x, y) denotes the number of permutations of x objects taken y at a time. Participants are exploring the implications of this equation within the context of permutations and factorials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to manipulate the equation using the factorial definitions of permutations. There are discussions about the validity of the original poster's calculations and the need for clarity in defining P(x, y). Some participants express confusion about how to proceed with the manipulation of the factorial expressions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing feedback on the original poster's work and questioning the steps taken. There is a recognition of the need for further clarification and exploration of the mathematical manipulations involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that n is a natural number (n Є N). There is a noted lack of consensus on the correctness of the original calculations, and some participants are questioning the assumptions made in the problem setup.

six789
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i just want to confirm if my anser is right...
this is the problem:

solve the expression for n Є N

P(2n + 4, 3) = 2/3P(n+4, 4)

this is my work:

(2n +4)!/(n-3)! = (2/3(n+4)!)/(n-4)!
-2(n-2)!/(n-3)! = -2/3(n-4)!/(n-4)!
-2/(n-3)! = -2/3
-2 = -2/3(n-3)
-2 = -2n/3 +6/3
-2 = -2n/3 +2
-6 = -2n +2
-8 = -2n
n=4
 
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if by P(x,y) you mean # of permutations of x objects taken y at a time,
so the formula for P(x,y) = x!/(x-y)!
then no, your solution doesn't work.
P(2n + 4, 3) = 2/3P(n+4, 4)
this is my work:
(2n +4)!/(n-3)! = (2/3(n+4)!)/(n-4)!
P(2n+4,3) = (2n+4)!/((2n+4) - 3)! = (2n+4)!/(2n+1)!
same mistake on the other side of the equation.
plus, you should at least say what P(x,y) is, otherwise
no one knows what you're asking about.
 
permutations

qbert said:
P(2n+4,3) = (2n+4)!/((2n+4) - 3)! = (2n+4)!/(2n+1)!

ok, i get what you mean, but how can i manipulate this, is seems i cannot cancel it... help again
 
Last edited:


this wat i did...

(2n+4)!/((2n+4)-3)! = (2/3(n+4)!)/((n+4)-4)!
(2n+4)!/(2n+1)! = (2/3(n+4)!)/(n)!

i don't know wat do do next, I am soo stuck, since you cannot cancel any of them, so should i cross multiply it?
 

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