Understanding the Multinomial Coefficient and its Independence in Combinatorics

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The multinomial coefficient is independent of the order in which subsets are selected because it represents the number of ways to partition a set of size N into subsets of specified sizes n1, n2, ..., nk. This independence is rooted in the combinatorial interpretation that the arrangement of subsets does not affect the total count of partitions. While intuitive, this property can be formally proven through combinatorial arguments or algebraic identities. The lack of ordering among subsets reinforces that the multinomial coefficient remains constant regardless of the sequence of selection. Thus, it is a fundamental aspect of combinatorial mathematics.
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Okay I got to wonder about this: Why is the multinomial coefficient independent of if you start by taking out n1, n2, n3 etc. or n2,n1,n3 or n3, n2, n1... etc.. I mean intuitively from actually doing the combinatorics by counting it seems obvious that the order should not matter. But can this be proved or is it taken as an axiom?
 
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Because no matter how you word it, it is the number of ways to partition a set of size N into subsets with respective sizes n1, n2, ..., nk. And there is no "ordering" of the subsets, so you interpret it in any order you like.
 
First trick I learned this one a long time ago and have used it to entertain and amuse young kids. Ask your friend to write down a three-digit number without showing it to you. Then ask him or her to rearrange the digits to form a new three-digit number. After that, write whichever is the larger number above the other number, and then subtract the smaller from the larger, making sure that you don't see any of the numbers. Then ask the young "victim" to tell you any two of the digits of the...

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