SOLUTION: Hi, How many combinations of numbers from 2 through 15 can be created from a base of 3000 numbers? I keep maxing out my calculators (and brain) with this. Exponential answer is pr

Algebra ->  Permutations -> SOLUTION: Hi, How many combinations of numbers from 2 through 15 can be created from a base of 3000 numbers? I keep maxing out my calculators (and brain) with this. Exponential answer is pr      Log On


   



Question 613190: Hi,
How many combinations of numbers from 2 through 15 can be created from a base of 3000 numbers? I keep maxing out my calculators (and brain) with this. Exponential answer is preferred.

A practical way to look at this is to think of something like 3000 genes and how many possible combinations linking as few as 2, and as many as 15 genes in a string.
Thanks!

Answer by scott8148(6628) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
3000C15 + 3000C14 + 3000C13 + ... + 3000C4 + 3000C3 + 3000C2

1.06E40 (approx)

more than 99% is from the 1st term


this was calculated with a TI-30XA ... probably a $10 calculator ... if they still make them
___ it has the nCr and nPr functions built in