Given nP3 = 9240, find n. (Recall nP3 = n * (n − 1) * (n − 2) for integers n ≥ 3.)

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 22

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Here we invert a cubic-like product n(n − 1)(n − 2). Trying nearby integers quickly identifies the exact match.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • nP3 = 9240.
  • nP3 = n(n − 1)(n − 2).


Concept / Approach:
Test n = 22 because 222120 seems close to 9240; compute and confirm.


Step-by-Step Solution:

22 * 21 = 462; 462 * 20 = 9240.Therefore n = 22.


Verification / Alternative check:
n = 21 gives 212019 = 7980; n = 23 gives 232221 = 10626, so 22 is correct.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
20, 21, 23 do not produce 9240 exactly.


Common Pitfalls:
Using combinations instead of permutations; forgetting the product spans three consecutive integers.


Final Answer:
22

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