Simplifying Factorials: How to Simplify the Expression (2n-1)! / (2n+1)!

In summary, a factorial is a mathematical operation denoted by an exclamation mark (!) that multiplies a number by all positive integers less than itself. Simplifying a factorial is important as it helps to reduce complex expressions and make them easier to solve and understand. This can be done using the formula n! = n x (n-1)!, or by using a calculator. Expanding a factorial involves writing it out in its expanded form, while simplifying it involves reducing it to its simplest form. There are two special cases when simplifying a factorial: when the number is 0, which results in 0! = 1, and when the number is a negative integer, which is not defined.
  • #1
vanceEE
109
2

Homework Statement



$$ \frac{(2n-1)!}{(2n+1)!} $$

How do you simplify this factorial?
 
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  • #2
Just write out the factorials. Then you'll see immediately how to simplify the expression.
 
  • #3
vanhees71 said:
Just write out the factorials. Then you'll see immediately how to simplify the expression.

I cannot tell from writing them out.
$$\frac{1*3*5*7*9...(2n-1)!}{3*5*7*9*11...(2n+1)!} $$
Please explain.Edit:
Nvm, I understand. Thank you!

$$\frac{(2n-1)!}{(2n+1)!} = \frac{(2n-1)*(2n-2)*(2n-3)*(2n-4)...2*1}{(2n+1)*(2n)*(2n-1)*(2n-2)...2*1} $$
$$ = \frac{1}{(2n)*(2n+1)} $$

or

$$\frac{(2n-1)!}{(2n+1)!} = \frac{(2n-1)!}{(2n+1)*(2n)*(2n-1)!} $$
$$ = \frac{1}{(2n+1)*(2n)} $$
 
Last edited:

Related to Simplifying Factorials: How to Simplify the Expression (2n-1)! / (2n+1)!

What is a factorial?

A factorial is a mathematical operation denoted by an exclamation mark (!) that multiplies a number by all positive integers less than itself. For example, 5! (read as "five factorial") is equal to 5 x 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 = 120.

Why is simplifying a factorial important?

Simplifying a factorial allows us to reduce a complex expression to a simpler form, making it easier to solve and understand. It also helps in simplifying complicated mathematical equations and in finding patterns and relationships between numbers.

How do I simplify a factorial?

To simplify a factorial, you can use the formula n! = n x (n-1)!, where n is the number inside the factorial. This formula can be applied repeatedly until you reach a number that is easy to calculate, such as 1 or 0. You can also use a calculator or a factorial calculator to simplify larger factorials.

What is the difference between simplifying a factorial and expanding a factorial?

Simplifying a factorial involves reducing it to its simplest form, while expanding a factorial involves writing it out in its expanded form. For example, simplifying 5! gives us 120, while expanding it gives us 5 x 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 = 120.

Are there any special cases when simplifying a factorial?

Yes, there are two special cases when simplifying a factorial. The first is when the number inside the factorial is 0, which results in 0! = 1. The second is when the number inside the factorial is a negative integer, which is not defined and therefore cannot be simplified.

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