8 runners compete in a race. In how many ways can the first 3 places be awarded?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. 336
- Step 1: Order matters, so use permutations.
- Step 2: P(8,3) = 8! / 5! = 336.
Answer
336.
Why not the others: 56 ignores the order; 512 would allow the same runner to win several places; 40320 orders all 8 runners.
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