Question

How many different signals can be made by displaying five flags all at one time on a flagpole? The flags differ only in color: two are red, two are white, and ine is blue. BTW this is a permutation problem.

Answer 1

30 different signals

(n = no. of objects)

(r = no. of objects selected)

Explanation:

this is a permutation problem so use the formula:

5P5 / 2! 2! 1! <- its 5 P 5 because there are 5 flags, 2 red, 2 white, and 1 blue

[5! / (5 - 5)!] / 2 x 2 x 1 <- the permutation formula is: n! / (n - r)!

= 120 / 4

= 30

(i know this was like 6 years ago but just in case someone needs the correct answer)