# Factorial : n!/(n-k)! = n(n-1)(n-2)...(n-k+1) - why?

by michonamona
Tags: factorial, n or nk, nn1n2nk
 P: 122 Why is the equation (A) n!/(n-k)! = n(n-1)(n-2)...(n-k+1) true? For example, let n=4 and k=2, then 4!/2! = 4x3x2x1 / 2x1 = 4x3 = 12. I understand this example, but I can't make the connection with this and the right-hand-side of equation (A). For example, why is our example above not 4!/2! = 4(4-1)(4-2)...(4-2+1). I know this doesn't make any mathematical sense, but I can't understand how the equation on the right-hand-side of (A) is derived. Thanks for your help. M
 Sci Advisor HW Helper Thanks P: 25,158 The equation is an informal shorthand. You aren't supposed to include (n-2) as a factor in the case where n=4 and k=2. You are supposed to STOP at (n-k+1)=3.
 Admin P: 22,651 Adding to what Dick wrote - it may become more obvious when you try to derive the equation. $$\frac {n!} {(n-k)!} = \frac {n \times (n-1) \times (n-2) \times ... \times (n - k + 1) \times (n - k) \times (n - k -1) \times ... \times 3 \times 2 \times 1} {(n-k) \times (n-k-1) \times (n-k-2) \times ... \times 3 \times 2 \times 1}$$ Check what cancels out and what is left. And remember that when n and k are too small it is not possible to explicitly list all these terms.

 Related Discussions General Math 20 General Math 18 Linear & Abstract Algebra 17 Calculus 12 Calculus 7