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This is a Test of Mathematics Solution Subjective 56 (from ISI Entrance). The book, Test of Mathematics at 10+2 Level is Published by East West Press. This problem book is indispensable for the preparation of I.S.I. B.Stat and B.Math Entrance.

Also visit: I.S.I. & C.M.I. Entrance Course of Cheenta

## Problem

Show that the number of ways in which four distinct integers can be chosen from 1,2,…n $(n \ge 7)$ such that no two are consecutive is equal to $\displaystyle{\binom{n-3}{4}}$.

## Solution:

suppose we chose a>b>c>d four integers from 1,2,…n such that no two are consecutive.So d<c-1<b-2<a-3.

Now d,(c-1),(b-2),(a-3) are four distinct integers from 1,2,…(n-3),which may be consecutive or not.

So number of ways to chose four numbers such that no two are consecutive from 1,2,…n = number of ways to chose four distinct numbers from 1,2,…(n-3).

Now number of ways to chose 4 ways from 1,2,…(n-3) = $\displaystyle{\binom{n-3}{4}}$.

Conclusion: Number of ways to chose four distinct integers from 1,2,…n such that no two are consecutive is $\displaystyle{\binom{n-3}{4}}$