Question:

In how many ways can 8 identical pens be distributed among Aal, Bal, and Cal so that Aal gets at least 1 pen, Bal gets at least 2 pens, and Cal gets at least 3 pens?

Show Hint

To handle "at least" conditions with identical items, just subtract the total required items from the initial total. Then solve the problem for the remaining items as a standard whole-number distribution.
Updated On: Apr 20, 2026
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 6
    (E) 5
  • 5
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
When there are minimum requirements for each person, we first satisfy those requirements by "giving away" the necessary pens. We then distribute the remaining pens using the standard formula.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

1. Total pens = 8.
2. Minimum requirements: - Aal: 1 pen - Bal: 2 pens - Cal: 3 pens 3. Total pens already assigned = $1 + 2 + 3 = 6$ pens.
4. Remaining pens to distribute = $8 - 6 = 2$ pens.
5. Now, we distribute these 2 identical pens among 3 distinct people with no further restrictions ($n=2, r=3$): \[ ^{2+3-1}C_{3-1} = \, ^4C_2 \] 6. Calculate the value: \[ ^4C_2 = \frac{4 \times 3}{2 \times 1} = 6. \]

Step 3: Final Answer:

The pens can be distributed in 6 ways.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0