Prove that n.1 + (n-1).2 + (n-2).33.(n-2) + 2.(n-1) + 1.n = n(n+1)(n+2)/6 By

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the equation n.1 + (n-1).2 + (n-2).3 + ... + 2.(n-1) + 1.n = n(n+1)(n+2)/6. Participants explore the validity of substituting n=1 into both sides of the equation and present various approaches to the proof.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant argues that substituting n=1 into the left-hand side (LHS) is incorrect, claiming it leads to a misunderstanding of the terms involved.
  • Other participants counter that substituting n=1 is valid, as it results in both sides equating to 1, thus supporting the equation.
  • A mathematical expression is presented that attempts to derive the equation using summation notation and algebraic manipulation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants disagree on the validity of substituting n=1 into the equation, with some asserting it is permissible and others contesting this approach. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the initial substitution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the interpretation of the terms when n=1 and the implications for the proof. The mathematical steps presented may depend on specific definitions and interpretations of the summation involved.

Arnab Chattar
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Prove that n.1 + (n-1).2 + (n-2).3 ... 3.(n-2) + 2.(n-1) + 1.n = n(n+1)(n+2)/6 By

You can't put n=1 in the L.H.S, when we take p(1) it means the first term i.e. 'n.1' and in the R.H.S n=1 should be put that means p(1) : n.1=1 which is wrong...now can you answer it...please solve it??
 
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Welcome to PF!

HI Arnab! Welcome to PF! :wink:
Arnab Chattar said:
You can't put n=1 in the L.H.S …

Yes we can …

the LHS has n terms, so if n = 1, that's 1 term, and the LHS is 1
.1 = 1 (and the RHS is 1.2.3/6 = 1 also). :smile:
 


Yes, by plugging in n=1, we consider the first term only on LHS and that is = 1
Also substituting n = 1 on RHS, we get 1
Hence, nothing wrong when n=1
 


\begin{aligned}\sum_{k=1}^{n} (n-k+1)k = (n+1)\sum_{k=1}^{n}k-\sum_{k=1}^{n}k^2= (n+1)\left[ \frac{1}{2} n (n+1)\right]-\frac{1}{6}n (n+1) (2 n+1) = \frac{1}{6}n (n+1) (n+2).\end{aligned}
 

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