Why Does the Binomial Theorem Solution Differ from the Book's Answer?

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The discussion revolves around understanding discrepancies between a student's solution to a binomial theorem problem and the book's answer, which is nx. Participants emphasize the importance of recognizing the average of outcomes in the expansion of (x+y)^n and how to manipulate binomial coefficients effectively. Key insights include using the sum of geometric series and the concept of expected values to simplify calculations. The conversation highlights the need for practice with small values of n to grasp the underlying principles better. Ultimately, the focus is on clarifying the connection between the binomial expansion and the expected value in probability contexts.
  • #31
Thanks, this ended up helping a lot =)

and sorry for digging up an old thread!
 
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  • #32
gaganspidey said:
This is what I've been able to work out :

\sum_{r=0}^{n} r C^n_r x^r y^{n-r} <--------(given)

= \frac{n!}{(r-1)!(n-1-(r-1)!} x^r y^{n-r} <---------(cancelling the r's & adding & subtracting 1 & regrouping them)

= \frac{(nx)}{x} \frac{(n-1)!}{(r-1)!(n-1-(r-1)!} x^r y^{n-r} <-------(separating n & multiplying & dividing by x)

= (nx) C^{n-1}_{r-1} x^{r-1}y^{n-r} <-------( The R.H.S)

= nx(y+x)^{n-1} <--------(The L.H.S)

= nx <--------(Substuting the value x+y=1)


I think something's not right above, but what is it ?

Hmm, just a question: The solution seems impeccable, but what happened to the sigma notation after the first line?
 

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