SOLUTION: Four couples have purchased tickets to the school play. Their seats are next to one another in a single row. If each couple sits side by side, how many arrangements are possible

Algebra ->  Permutations -> SOLUTION: Four couples have purchased tickets to the school play. Their seats are next to one another in a single row. If each couple sits side by side, how many arrangements are possible      Log On


   

Question 858479: Four couples have purchased tickets to the school play. Their seats are next to one another in a single row. If each couple sits side by side, how many arrangements are possible
Answer by Edwin McCravy(20054) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Choose the couple to sit on the far left 4 ways.
Choose the couple to sit next to the far left 3 ways.
Choose the couple to sit next to the far right 2 ways.
Choose the couple to sit on the far right 1 way.
Choose the first couple's arrangement 2 ways. 
(boy on left, girl on right, or girl on left, boy on right).
Choose the 2nd couple's seating arrangement 2 ways.
Choose the 3rd couple's seating arrangement 2 ways.
Choose the 4th couple's seating arrangement 2 ways.

Answer: 4×3×2×1×2×2×2×2 = 384 ways.

Edwin