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What is the sum of all the numbers formed by taking each of the digits 2,3,5,6 and 8 once?
The discussion revolves around calculating the sum of all possible 5-digit numbers formed by using the digits 2, 3, 5, 6, and 8 exactly once. It explores combinatorial reasoning and different approaches to arrive at the total sum.
There is no consensus on the correct total sum, as participants present differing calculations and interpretations of the question. Some methods yield 2880 while others yield 6399936, indicating competing views remain.
The discussion includes various assumptions about the interpretation of the question, particularly regarding whether it pertains to the sum of the numbers formed or the sum of their digits. The calculations also depend on the understanding of permutations and the distribution of digits across different positions.
Originally posted by jamesrc
6399936
Originally posted by jamesrc
If I answered the right question, for all of the 5-digit numbers you can make, each digit appears 24 times in each column, so you can write:
24*(22222+33333+55555+66666+88888)=6399936
Edit: Oh, I thought it was the sum of the numbers made by the combinations, not the sum of their digits.