# Combinatorics Proof

1. Aug 28, 2004

Hello all

In my calculus book, this problem has been pestering me"

Prove nC(k-1) + nCk = (n+1)Ck, where k > 0 which is read " n choose k-1" + "n choose k"

= n+1C k.

I tried using the formula for the binomial coefficient, but it becomes very messy. I also tried setting k = 1, but then it did not seem like I was actually proving it. Rather I was showing that the statement holds for k > 0. Would I have to use proof my induction? I know that n! = n(n-1)!. Any replies would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks a lot

Last edited: Aug 28, 2004
2. Aug 28, 2004

### Vance

Just expand the left hand side of the given formula and take out (n+1)!/[k!(n+1-k)!], then you will be left with [k/(n+1)]+[(n-k+1)/(n+1)] which is equal to 1.

You're welcome! --lol--

3. Aug 28, 2004

### Wong

To prove it, just remember the defintion of C,

$$C_{k-1}^{n} + C_{k}^{n}$$
$$= \frac {n!} {(k-1)!(n-k+1)!} + \frac {n!}{k!(n-k)!}$$
$$= \frac {n!k} {k!(n-k+1)!} + \frac {n!(n-k+1)}{k!(n-k+1)!}$$
$$= \frac {n!}{k!(n+1-k)!} (k+n-k+1)$$
$$= C_{k}^{n+1}$$

The equation has a verbal interpretation. To choose k things from n+1 things, we can first take away one thing (call it x) from the n+1 things, leaving n things. Then we may either make x one of our k things to be choosen (and in this case we choose k-1 things from the remaining n things), or exclude x as our choice (and in this case we choose all the k things from the remaining n things).

4. Aug 28, 2004