Probability

[davidleung808]

A group of eight friends is having a video game tournament. I dunno, maybe it’s Super Smash Bros. or whatever it is I see people play in the L-Lounge down there. Whatever it is, how many different ways could first and second place be awarded to the top two finishers in the tournament?

 

[Dr.Peterson]

What thoughts do you have?

How many ways can the first place by awarded? How many ways could the second place then be awarded?

 

[davidleung808]

Hi Dr. Peterson,

I use the Fundamental Counting Principle to find the number of ways I can arrange the first place and second place.

8 * 7 = 56

Thus, I can arrange the first award and second award in 56 ways. There are 56 different possible permutations. Am I correct?

 

[pka]

I use the Fundamental Counting Principle to find the number of ways I can arrange the first place and second place.
8 * 7 = 56 Thus, I can arrange the first award and second award in 56 ways. There are 56 different possible permutations.

Well that was almost trivial was it not?

 

[Steven G]

Hi Dr. Peterson,

I use the Fundamental Counting Principle to find the number of ways I can arrange the first place and second place.

8 * 7 = 56

Thus, I can arrange the first award and second award in 56 ways. There are 56 different possible permutations. Am I correct?

Try listing them and see if you get 56 permutations

 

[Dr.Peterson]

I use the Fundamental Counting Principle to find the number of ways I can arrange the first place and second place.

8 * 7 = 56

Thus, I can arrange the first award and second award in 56 ways. There are 56 different possible permutations. Am I correct?

Sounds good. I suspected you wouldn't need more than a hint.

 

[davidleung808]

Sounds good. I suspected you wouldn't need more than a hint.

Dr. Peterson,

Thank you.