Question

When should I use combinations vs permutation?

a) Combinations for ordered arrangements, permutations for unordered arrangements
b) Combinations for unordered arrangements, permutations for ordered arrangements
c) Combinations for both ordered and unordered arrangements
d) Permutations for both ordered and unordered arrangements

Answer 1

Combinations are used for unordered arrangements where the order of elements does not matter, while permutations are used for ordered arrangements where the sequence of elements is significant.

Step-by-step explanation:

In mathematics, when solving problems, we use combinations when we are dealing with unordered arrangements where the order does not matter, and permutations when we are dealing with ordered arrangements where the order of items is important. As such, the correct answer to the question is 'b) Combinations for unordered arrangements, permutations for ordered arrangements.'

For example, if you are selecting a committee of 3 people out of 10, and the order in which they are chosen does not matter, you would use combinations. However, if you are seating those 3 people in a specific order around a table, you would use permutations since their positions at the table make a difference.