6 runners compete in a race. In how many ways can the first 3 places be awarded?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. 120

  1. Step 1: Order matters, so use permutations.
  2. Step 2: P(6,3) = 6! / 3! = 120.
Answer
120.
Why not the others: 20 ignores the order; 216 would allow the same runner to win several places; 720 orders all 6 runners.

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