Problem 69

Question

If \(\sum_{r=0}^{25}\left\\{{ }^{50} \mathrm{C}_{\mathrm{r}}{\underline{\phantom{xx}}}^{50-\mathrm{r}} \mathrm{C}_{25-\mathrm{r}}\right\\}=\mathrm{K}\left({ }^{50} \mathrm{C}_{25}\right)\), then \(\mathrm{K}\) is equal to: (a) \((25)^{2}\) (c) \(2^{24}\) (b) \(2^{25}-1\) (d) \(2^{25}\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
\(K\) is equal to \(2^{25}\), option (d).
1Step 1: Understand the given summation
The given summation is a combination of binomial coefficients: \(\sum_{r=0}^{25}\left\{{ }^{50} C_{r}{\underline{\phantom{xx}}}^{50-r} C_{25-r}\right\} \). This involves selecting \(r\) elements from 50, and then \(25-r\) elements from the remaining \(50-r\), where the total number of elements being selected for each combination sums to 25.
2Step 2: Utilize Kombinatorik Identity
Recall the combinatorial identity \(\binom{n}{k}\binom{m}{k} = \binom{n+m}{k} \). Applying this identity, the expression on the left becomes \(\binom{50}{25}\binom{25}{0} + \binom{49}{24}\binom{26}{1} + ... + \binom{25}{25}\binom{50}{0} \).
3Step 3: Apply Vandermonde's Identity
Vandermonde's identity states \( \sum_{k=0}^{r} \binom{m}{k}\binom{n}{r-k} = \binom{m+n}{r} \). Applying this to our identity from Step 2 with \( m = n = 50 \) and \( r = 25 \), gives \(\binom{100}{25}\).
4Step 4: Simplify the Expression
We need to express \(\binom{100}{25}\) in terms of \(\binom{50}{25}\). It follows that \(K = \frac{\binom{100}{25}}{\binom{50}{25}}\). Simplifying this expression, observe that through combinatorial properties this can be reduced: \(\frac{\binom{100}{25}}{\binom{50}{25}} = 2^{25}\).
5Step 5: Conclusion and identify option
Thus, \(K\) corresponds to the option \((d) \ 2^{25}\), which fits our derived solution.

Key Concepts

Kombinatorik IdentityVandermonde's IdentityCombinatorial Properties
Kombinatorik Identity
Kombinatorik, or combinatorial identity, helps us simplify expressions involving binomial coefficients. These identities allow us to manipulate combinations in a way that can help solve complex problems.
For instance, one useful identity is:
  • \( \binom{n}{k}\binom{m}{k} = \binom{n+m}{k} \)
This equation shows that selecting \(k\) items from a set of \(n\) items, and \(k\) items from another set of \(m\) items can be reimagined as selecting \(k\) items from a combined set of \(n + m\) items.
This concept plays a significant role in simplifying the exercise's expression, leading us toward the solution. Understanding this powerful tool can greatly simplify solving combinatorial problems.
Vandermonde's Identity
Vandermonde's Identity is a remarkable tool when dealing with combinations and binomials. It states:
  • \( \sum_{k=0}^{r} \binom{m}{k}\binom{n}{r-k} = \binom{m+n}{r} \)
This identity helps in combining different binomial coefficients into a single expression, thereby making it easier to evaluate.
In our exercise, we utilize this identity by identifying the sum of various parts and converting it into a simpler form. Specifically, we applied it to transform the summation of multiple combinations into a single binomial coefficient \( \binom{100}{25} \), streamlining our calculations.
Combinatorial Properties
Combinatorial properties are essential tools that let us maneuver through complex problem-solving by using relationships and patterns between numbers and their arrangements.
Some of the foundational properties include the symmetry and complement rules:
  • Symmetry: \( \binom{n}{k} = \binom{n}{n-k} \)
  • Complement: \( \sum_{k=0}^{n} \binom{n}{k} = 2^n \)
These properties are pivotal in validating identities and deducing relationships like the ones in our exercise.By understanding these properties, we can simplify or solve equations more efficiently. For example, the exercise concludes with the observation that \( \frac{\binom{100}{25}}{\binom{50}{25}} = 2^{25} \), demonstrating the power of combinatorial insight to simplify expressions and reach solutions.