Question

Fifteen bicyclists entered a race. In how many different orders can the top five finish so that awards can be given?

pls help !!

Answer 1

They can finish the race in 15 x 14 x 13 x 12 x 11 = 360360 order.

Explanation:

There are 15 bicyclists in the race. The first position would come from the first bicyclist to the 15th. Meaning the first position can be occupied by 15 individuals. The second position can only be occupied by 14 individuals since one person is already first. Same way the third, fourth and fifth positions can be occupied by 13, 12 and 11 individuals respectively.

Therefore, they can finish the race in

15 x 14 x 13 x 12 x 11 = 360360 order.