Simple Problems Based on Permutations

Master Permutations for CBSE Class 11 Applied Mathematics. Learn fundamental counting principles, factorial notation, and arrangement problems with solutions.

Fundamental Principle of Counting

If an event can occur in m ways and following it, a second event can occur in n ways, then the two events in succession can occur in m × n ways. This principle forms the basis of all permutation problems. It extends to any number of independent events occurring in sequence.

Total ways = n₁ × n₂ × n₃ × ... × n���
Example: Solved Example: Forming 3-digit numbers
Show Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Identify choices for each position. Hundreds place has 9 options (1-9), tens place has 10 (0-9), units place has 10 (0-9).
Step 2: Multiply the choices: 9 × 10 × 10.
Answer: 900

Permutation of n Distinct Objects

A permutation is an ordered arrangement of a set of objects. The number of ways to arrange n distinct objects taken r at a time is denoted by P(n, r). This formula accounts for the importance of the order of selection.

P(n, r) = n! / (n − r)!
Example: Solved Example: Arrange 3 books from 5
Show Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Identify n=5, r=3.
Step 2: Use formula P(5, 3) = 5! / (5-3)! = 120 / 2.
Answer: 60

Permutations with Identical Objects

When some objects are not distinct, the number of arrangements decreases. If there are n objects where n₁ are of one type, n₂ of another, the total arrangements are adjusted by dividing by the factorials of the counts of identical items.

Total arrangements = n! / (n₁! × n₂! × ... × nₖ!)
Example: Solved Example: Arrange letters in 'APPLE'
Show Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Total letters n=5, 'P' repeats 2 times.
Step 2: Calculate 5! / 2! = 120 / 2.
Answer: 60