Combination of Set

Combination is a mathematical concept that refers to the selection of elements from a collection, where the order of the elements does not affect the result. A combination of set involves choosing a subset of distinct elements from a larger set, with no element being selected more than once. The size of the subset is typically smaller than or equal to the size of the original set.
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Combination of Set Formula

In cases where we want to select elements from a set, we can determine the number of possible combinations using the combination of set formula:
n C r = n ! r ! ( n - r ) !
nCr = Combination of distinct elements taken at a time | n = total number of elements | r = number of elements to choose

Combination of Set Examples

Explore the following Combination of Set examples to learn how to find different ways to choose items in various contexts.
Example 1: Combinations of a Set of Numbers
  • Problem: How many ways can a subset of 2 elements be chosen from the set {1, 2, 3, 4}?
  • Solution: Using combination formula: 4! / [2! × (4 - 2)!] = 6.
  • Answer: There are 6 ways to choose the subset.
Example 2: Combinations of a Set of Letters
  • Problem: How many ways can a subset of 3 letters be chosen from the set {A, B, C, D, E}?
  • Solution: Using combination formula: 5! / [3! × (5 - 3)!] = 10.
  • Answer: There are 10 ways to choose the subset.
Example 3: Combinations of a Set of Colors
  • Problem: How many ways can a subset of 4 colors be selected from the set {Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Black, White}?
  • Solution: Using combination formula: 6! / [4! × (6 - 4)!] = 15.
  • Answer: There are 15 ways to choose the subset.

Combination of Set Exercise

Engage in this Combination of Set exercise to explore the concept of combinations through practical questions. Challenge your skills in determining how to select items.
Que 1: How many ways can a subset of 2 elements be chosen from the set {A, B, C, D}?
Ans 1: 6.
Que 2: How many ways can a subset of 3 elements be selected from the set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}?
Ans 2: 10.
Que 3: How many ways can a subset of 4 elements be chosen from the set {P, Q, R, S, T, U}?
Ans 3: 15.
Que 4: How many ways can a subset of 1 element be selected from the set {X, Y, Z}?
Ans 4: 3.
Que 5: How many ways can a subset of 3 elements be chosen from the set {a, b, c, d, e, f}?
Ans 5: 20.

Combination of Set Calculator FAQ

What is the difference between combinations and permutations in sets?
Combinations focus on selecting items from a set without considering the order of selection, while permutations involve arranging selected items from a set where the order does matter.
Can I have an empty set in combinations?
Yes, an empty set can be part of combinations, but it will not contribute any elements to the combination.
How can combinations of sets be applied in real life?
They can be used in various scenarios, such as forming teams, choosing toppings, or creating diverse product bundles.
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