Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Permutations and combinations

Permutations and combinations — practice question

(a)[1]

Find how many distinct arrangements are possible using the $9$ letters in the word CELESTIAL.

(b)[2]

Find the number of distinct arrangements of the $9$ letters in the word CELESTIAL for which the first letter is $C$, the fifth letter is $T$ and the last letter is $E$.

(c)[4]

Find the probability that a randomly selected arrangement of the $9$ letters in the word CELESTIAL does not place the two $E$s together.

(d)[3]

Select five letters at random from the $9$ letters in the word CELESTIAL. Find the number of distinct selections if the $5$ letters contain at least one E and no more than one L.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Correct evaluation gives $\dfrac{9!}{2!2!}=90\,720$.

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI