Given nP3 = 9240, find n. (Recall nP3 = n * (n − 1) * (n − 2) for integers n ≥ 3.)
Aptitude
Permutation and Combination
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A20
-
B21
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C22
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D23
Answer
Correct Answer: 22
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Here we invert a cubic-like product n(n − 1)(n − 2). Trying nearby integers quickly identifies the exact match.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- nP3 = 9240.
- nP3 = n(n − 1)(n − 2).
Concept / Approach:Test n = 22 because 222120 seems close to 9240; compute and confirm.
Step-by-Step Solution:
22 * 21 = 462; 462 * 20 = 9240.Therefore n = 22.Verification / Alternative check:n = 21 gives 212019 = 7980; n = 23 gives 232221 = 10626, so 22 is correct.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:20, 21, 23 do not produce 9240 exactly.
Common Pitfalls:Using combinations instead of permutations; forgetting the product spans three consecutive integers.
Final Answer:22