Data Management (MDM4U) · Counting and Probability

Permutations of distinct objects

Count ordered arrangements of r objects chosen from n distinct objects using permutations, P(n, r). Unlimited questions, five difficulty levels, and a full worked solution every time — free.

Practice this skill Curriculum: MDM4U-CP2.2

Try one

There are 7 runners in a race. In how many different ways can the top 3 finishers (1st through 3rd) be arranged?

P(7, 3) = 7! / (7 - 3)!

Answer: 210

See one solved, step by step

There are 9 runners in a race. In how many different ways can the top 2 finishers (1st through 2nd) be arranged?

P(9, 2) = 9! / (9 - 2)!
📘 Worked solution
1P(9, 2) = 9 · 8Start at 9 and count down, using 2 factors -- one for each position being filled in order.
2= 72Multiply those 2 factors together.

Ready to master it?

Jump into unlimited practice — your Winny Score tracks you to 100. And if it won't click, a real tutor will make it click: first lesson free.

Start practicing