Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question involves forming three-digit numbers with specific constraints (odd or even) from a given set of digits, with repetition allowed. The key is to analyze the choices available for each digit's place (hundreds, tens, units), especially the units place which determines if a number is odd or even.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
We will use the fundamental principle of counting. The total number of possibilities is the product of the number of choices for each of the three places.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The set of available digits is {1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8}. Total number of available digits is 6.
Repetition is allowed in both cases.
For Column A: Three-digit ODD numbers
A number is odd if its units digit is an odd number.
From the given set, the odd digits are {1, 5, 7}. There are 3 choices for the units place.
- Units place: 3 choices (1, 5, or 7).
- Tens place: 6 choices (any of the 6 digits, as repetition is allowed).
- Hundreds place: 6 choices (any of the 6 digits).
Total number of odd numbers = (Choices for hundreds) × (Choices for tens) × (Choices for units)
Total odd numbers = 6 × 6 × 3 = 108
For Column B: Three-digit EVEN numbers
A number is even if its units digit is an even number.
From the given set, the even digits are {4, 6, 8}. There are 3 choices for the units place.
- Units place: 3 choices (4, 6, or 8).
- Tens place: 6 choices (any of the 6 digits).
- Hundreds place: 6 choices (any of the 6 digits).
Total number of even numbers = (Choices for hundreds) × (Choices for tens) × (Choices for units)
Total even numbers = 6 × 6 × 3 = 108
Step 4: Final Answer:
Comparing the two quantities:
Quantity A = 108
Quantity B = 108
The two quantities are equal.