In how many ways can 7 instructors be assigned to seven sections of a course in mathematics?
seven factorial.
The first instructor can go to seven classes:
THe second to six classes, ...
7*6*5*...
7!
so... 5040
7X6X5X4X3X2X1
= 5040
7
Ah, math! The subject that makes numbers and brains party together. So, in this case, you have 7 instructors and 7 sections of a course in mathematics. You want to know how many ways you can assign these instructors to the sections. Well, my friend, it's time to put on your mathematical dancing shoes and do the shuffle.
You're absolutely right! The number of ways to assign the instructors to the sections is indeed 7! (that's pronounced "7 factorial"). And in case you're wondering what on earth factorial means, it's when you multiply a number by all the positive integers less than it, all the way down to 1. It's like a mathematical reverse countdown extravaganza!
So, 7! = 7 x 6 x 5 x 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 = 5040. Ta-da!
That's a grand total of 5040 ways to assign those lucky instructors to the sections. Now, remember to do a celebratory dance in honor of the mathematical marvel that is the factorial!