Combinatorics is the branch of mathematics where the main problem is to count the number of ways of arranging or choosing objects from a fixed set.
A simple combinatorics problem is as follows. There are a large number of socks in a drawer. The socks come in three colors: blue, white, and black. You must draw the socks out of the drawer blindly (not knowing the color). How many socks must you draw before getting two of the same color?
The answer is four. By the time you have taken 4 socks, you are guaranteed to have at least two of the same color.
This book is the textbook for the graduate level mathematics class I will be taking this spring. I am working on a MS in Mathematics at Texas A&M University through their online program.
Tell us what Combinatorics is in relatively plain English.
ReplyDeleteCombinatorics is the branch of mathematics where the main problem is to count the number of ways of arranging or choosing objects from a fixed set.
ReplyDeleteA simple combinatorics problem is as follows. There are a large number of socks in a drawer. The socks come in three colors: blue, white, and black. You must draw the socks out of the drawer blindly (not knowing the color). How many socks must you draw before getting two of the same color?
The answer is four. By the time you have taken 4 socks, you are guaranteed to have at least two of the same color.
This book is the textbook for the graduate level mathematics class I will be taking this spring. I am working on a MS in Mathematics at Texas A&M University through their online program.