Probability and Stats permutation problem

In summary, the problem at hand involves determining the probability of five people getting off an elevator with seven floors, without any two people getting off on the same floor. The probability of an event can be calculated by dividing the number of event outcomes by the total number of outcomes. In this case, the total number of outcomes is 7^5, as each person can choose from any of the seven floors. However, it is unclear how to calculate the number of event outcomes.
  • #1
billy2908
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0

Homework Statement



So here's the problem. There is an elevator w/ 5 people equally likely to get off at any of the 7 floor.

What is the probability that no two passengers will get off the same floor.


Homework Equations


The probability of event should be P(E)= number of event outcome/ number of total outcome


The Attempt at a Solution



Total outcome should be 7^5 since
for first floor there can be 1,2,3,4, or 5 people getting off
second floor there can be 1,...,5 people getting off etc.

But I am not sure how to calculate the number of event outcomes.
 
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  • #2
Total outcome is 7^5 because the first person can choose any of the seven floors to get off on, the second person can choose any of the seven floors to get off on, etc. If they all have to choose different floors then once the first person has chosen, how many choices are left for the second person?
 

What is a permutation in probability and statistics?

A permutation is an arrangement of a set of objects in a specific order. In probability and statistics, permutations are used to calculate the number of possible outcomes when the order of objects matters.

How do you calculate the number of permutations?

The number of permutations can be calculated using the formula n!/(n-r)!, where n is the total number of objects and r is the number of objects in each arrangement.

What is the difference between a permutation and a combination?

A permutation involves arranging a set of objects in a specific order, while a combination is a selection of objects from a set without considering the order in which they are chosen.

How is the concept of permutations applied in real life?

Permutations are used in various fields such as mathematics, computer science, and finance. In real life, they can be applied in situations where the order of objects matters, such as creating unique passwords or lottery number combinations.

What are some common misconceptions about permutations and probability?

One common misconception is that permutations always involve all objects in a set. However, permutations can also be partial arrangements where not all objects are used. Another misconception is that permutations and combinations are interchangeable, but they are distinct concepts with different calculations and applications.

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