Finding Coefficient of x^8y^5 using Binomial Theorem

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SUMMARY

The coefficient of \(x^8y^5\) in the expansion of \((x+y)^{13}\) is determined using the binomial theorem, yielding a result of 1287. The calculation involves the binomial coefficient \(\binom{13}{5}\), which simplifies to \(\frac{13 \cdot 12 \cdot 11 \cdot 10 \cdot 9}{120}\). The discussion clarifies the correct application of the theorem and addresses a misunderstanding regarding the variable \(n\), which represents the exponent in the binomial expression.

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  • Understanding of the binomial theorem and its applications
  • Familiarity with binomial coefficients and their calculations
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
  • Knowledge of non-negative integers and their properties
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  • Practice calculating binomial coefficients using Pascal's triangle
  • Explore advanced topics such as multinomial expansions
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Students studying algebra, particularly those learning about the binomial theorem, as well as educators looking for clear examples of binomial coefficient calculations.

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Homework Statement



Use the binomial theorem to find the coefficient of ##x^8y^5## in ##(x+y)^{13}##.

Homework Equations



We know 13 - 5 = 8 , so we have ##\binom{n}{5}x^{n-5}y^5 = \binom{13}{5}x^8y^5##

##\binom{13}{5} = \frac{13 \cdot 12 \cdot 11 \cdot 10 \cdot 9 \cdot 8!}{5!8!} = \frac{13 \cdot 12 \cdot 11 \cdot 10 \cdot 9}{120} = \frac{154440}{120} = 1287##

So ##1287x^8y^5##

This is the first time I work with the binomial theorem so I'm not sure , any thoughts on my result?

thank you!
 
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I don't see why you introduced "n" there.
The solution is right.
 
mfb said:
I don't see why you introduced "n" there.
The solution is right.

sorry this was a brain cramp on my part.The book I'm reading introduced the binomial theorem as followed: If ##n## is a non-negative integer , then ##(x+y)^n = \binom{n}{0}x^n + \binom{n}{1}x^{n-1}y + \binom{n}{2}x^{n-2}y^2 + \binom{n}{3}y^3 + \cdots + \binom{n}{n-1}xy^{n-1}+\binom{n}{n}y^n##.For some reasons I forgot to connect ##n## to ##(x+y)^n## and ##\mathbb{N}##.

thank you!
 

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