Summing 4-Digit Numbers with 1,2,3,4

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the sum of all 4-digit numbers that can be formed using the digits 1, 2, 3, and 4 with repetition allowed. The original poster notes the total number of possible combinations and seeks a method to sum them without listing each number individually.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss arranging the numbers in increasing order and consider the implications of this arrangement. There is an exploration of patterns in the digits, particularly focusing on the vertical arrangement of numbers and how this might simplify the summation process.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered insights into recognizing patterns in the digits and suggested methods for summation. There appears to be a productive exchange of ideas, with participants reflecting on their understanding and approaches without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of the problem, specifically the requirement to use the digits 1, 2, 3, and 4 with repetition, and the challenge of summing a large number of combinations efficiently.

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Find sum!

Homework Statement



Find sum of all 4-digit numbers formed by digits 1,2,3,4 with repetition.


The Attempt at a Solution


i did come figure out that there are 44 = 256 numbers possible but how do i sum them up without listing each individually?
 
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Can you arrange them in increasing order? Which one is the smallest, the next and so on?
 


ok, that would give me something like this

1111
1112
1113
1114
1121
1122
.... and so on but how will that help? :confused:
 


why don't you look at the vertical pattern of the numbers you're writing out...
 


ow foolish me!
so i get it there's repetition of 1+2+3+4 in units and in tens 1+1+1+1+2+2+2+2... so on and adding them a bit cleverly(though it does consume some time!) as you guys suggested and I got the answer.
so thanks for helping me out! :approve:
 


I would make an other column beside this one, but the numbers would be in decreasing order...

ehild
 


oh .. i see.. this is even quite easier than i suspected!

Thanks again! :smile:
 


... so what did you come up with?
 


ehild said:
I would make an other column beside this one, but the numbers would be in decreasing order...

ehild

and I would add up the two numbers in one row...

ehild
 
  • #10


adding up as ehild said i get same terms ie= 5555 256 times!
so what would happen is we get twice the sum actually needed and dividing it by 2 ... easy answer!
 

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