How many distinct arrangements of the letters in “ARMOUR” are possible? (R appears twice; other letters are distinct.)

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 360

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
When letters repeat, divide the total permutations by factorials of the multiplicities. “ARMOUR” has 6 letters with R repeated twice.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Total letters = 6; multiplicities: R × 2; A,M,O,U each × 1.


Concept / Approach:
Use 6! / 2! for the two indistinguishable R’s.


Step-by-Step Solution:

6! / 2! = 720 / 2 = 360.


Verification / Alternative check:
Any attempt to treat both R’s as distinct would double-count each arrangement.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
720 ignores repeated R; 540 and 300 do not correspond to the correct division.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to divide by 2! for the duplicated letter.


Final Answer:
360

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