Combinatorics problem, apples and pears

In summary: Yes, I can see that with the help of a quick sketch that the given answer counts the same pairs multiple times and is thus incorrect. Thanks for the clarity.
  • #1
Lord Anoobis
131
22

Homework Statement


There are 15 different apples and 10 different pears. How many ways are there for Jack to pick an apple or a pear and then for Jill to pick an apple and a pear?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Let apples be A and pears P. Since Jack chooses either an apple or pear, he has 25 possibilities. This leaves Jill to choose a pair from either:
14A, 10P or
15A, 9P

So Jill's choices = 25[14(10) + 15(9)] = 6875

Which is rather far from the given answer of 15[10(14 + 9)] = 3450 and I do not see how this was arrived at. What am I doing wrong here?
 
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  • #2
Does it make a difference what Jack chooses. You have assumed not.

Does it make a difference who chooses first? If not, could you double check your answer by letting Jill choose first?
 
  • #3
PeroK said:
Does it make a difference what Jack chooses. You have assumed not.

Does it make a difference who chooses first? If not, could you double check your answer by letting Jill choose first?

If Jill chose first the answer would be 150. The problem does specify that jack goes first so we can discount this option.
As for whether Jack's choice makes a difference, I thought the 14A, 10P and 15A, 9P split dealt with that?
 
  • #4
Lord Anoobis said:
If Jill chose first the answer would be 150. The problem does specify that jack goes first so we can discount this option.
As for whether Jack's choice makes a difference, I thought the 14A, 10P and 15A, 9P split dealt with that?

If Jack chooses, say, the first apple, then you have calculated 140 + 135 options for Jill, which is almost twice the options she has if she chose first. And the same for all Jack's choices.

In particular the 140 includes apple 2 and pear 1 and the 135 included this option again, but also choices with apple 1, which shouldn't be possible.

note that it makes no difference who chooses first. Think about it.
 
  • #5
PeroK said:
If Jack chooses, say, the first apple, then you have calculated 140 + 135 options for Jill, which is almost twice the options she has if she chose first. And the same for all Jack's choices.

In particular the 140 includes apple 2 and pear 1 and the 135 included this option again, but also choices with apple 1, which shouldn't be possible.

note that it makes no difference who chooses first. Think about it.

So in fact Jill only has 150 distinct pairs available, regardless of Jack's selection?
 
  • #6
Lord Anoobis said:
So in fact Jill only has 150 distinct pairs available, regardless of Jack's selection?
At most 150. And always less than 150 if Jack chooses first.
 
  • #7
PeroK said:
At most 150. And always less than 150 if Jack chooses first.
Yes, I can see that with the help of a quick sketch that the given answer counts the same pairs multiple times and is thus incorrect. Thanks for the clarity.
 

Related to Combinatorics problem, apples and pears

1. What is combinatorics?

Combinatorics is a branch of mathematics that deals with the study of counting, arrangements, and combinations of objects or events. It is used to solve problems related to counting and arranging various objects or events.

2. Can you explain the "apples and pears" combinatorics problem?

The "apples and pears" combinatorics problem is a classic example of a counting problem. It involves calculating the number of ways in which a certain number of apples and pears can be arranged in a row or group.

3. What are the key concepts in combinatorics?

The key concepts in combinatorics include permutations, combinations, and the multiplication and addition principles. Permutations refer to the number of ways in which objects can be arranged in a specific order, while combinations refer to the number of ways in which objects can be selected without considering their order. The multiplication and addition principles are used to solve more complex counting problems.

4. How is combinatorics used in real life?

Combinatorics has many practical applications in fields such as computer science, statistics, and economics. It is used in data analysis, cryptography, and designing experiments. In everyday life, combinatorics can be used to solve problems related to arranging objects, scheduling events, and making decisions involving multiple options.

5. What are some common strategies for solving combinatorics problems?

Some common strategies for solving combinatorics problems include creating a systematic approach, using visual aids such as diagrams or tables, breaking down a problem into smaller parts, and considering all possible scenarios. It is also important to carefully read and understand the problem and to use relevant formulas or principles.

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