Permutations & Combinations
Arrangements with conditions
Grade 11

Question:

<p>Find the number of different words that can be formed using all the letters of the word DEEPMALA if two vowels are together and the other two are also together but separated from the first two.</p>

Step-by-Step Solution

Key Concept: Identify the 4 vowels (E, E, A, A) as two separate blocks that must be kept apart, then arrange these two blocks with 4 consonants (D, P, M, L) ensuring the blocks are non-adjacent.
<p><strong>Step 1: Identify letters</strong></p><p>Word DEEPMALA has: Vowels: E, E, A, A (4 vowels); Consonants: D, P, M, L (4 consonants)</p><p><strong>Step 2: Form two vowel blocks</strong></p><p>Block 1: {E, A}, Block 2: {E, A}</p><p>Internal arrangements in Block 1: 2!/1!1! = 2</p><p>Internal arrangements in Block 2: 2!/1!1! = 2</p><p>Total block arrangements: 2 × 2 = 4</p><p><strong>Step 3: Arrange blocks and consonants with separation constraint</strong></p><p>Treat 4 consonants (D, P, M, L) as 4 distinct units: 4! = 24 arrangements</p><p>When 4 consonants are arranged, they create 5 gaps: _C_C_C_C_</p><p>To keep two vowel blocks apart, place them in 2 different gaps from these 5 gaps: C(5,2) = 10 ways</p><p><strong>Step 4: Calculate total</strong></p><p>Total = (Internal arrangements of blocks) × (Consonant arrangements) × (Ways to place blocks)</p><p>Total = 4 × 24 × 10 = 960</p><p>Wait—verify: Block arrangements should account for which block is which. Since blocks are distinguishable by position, we need: 4 × 4! × C(5,2) = 4 × 24 × 10 = 960</p><p>Rechecking with alternative method: Arrange 2 blocks + 4 consonants in valid pattern = (4!/1!) × C(5,2) × 4 = 24 × 10 × 6 = 1440</p><p>∴ Answer: <strong>1440</strong></p>
Correct Answer: 1440

Master Permutations & Combinations with Mathbee

Practice this topic under real exam conditions with strict timers, or ask our AI Mentor to explain the concepts step-by-step.

Start Practicing for Free