How many 3-digit numbers can be formed from the digits 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 assuming that (i) repetition of the digits is allowed? (ii) repetition of the digits is not allowed?

Explanation

(i) When repetition of digits is allowed:
No. of ways of choosing firsy digits = 5
No. of ways of choosing second digit = 5
No. of ways of choosing third digit = 5
Therefore, total possible numbers `= 5 xx 5 xx 5 = 125`
(ii) When repetition of digits is not allowed:
No. of ways of choosing first digit = 5
No. of ways of choosing second digit = 4
No. of ways of choosing thrid digit = 3
Total possible numbers `= 5 xx 4 xx 3 = 60`.