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How do I prove this combinatorial identity


Alternative combinatorial proof for $sumlimits_r=0^nbinomnrbinomm+rn=sumlimits_r=0^nbinomnrbinommr2^r$Number of way to invite my friends over for dinner on 5 nightsHelp with how to prepare the inductive step of a strong induction exercise.Source and/or combinatorial interpretation for $F_n+k = sum_i=0^k binomkiF_n-i$Another combinatorial identity of McKayExpectation of the fraction a random function covers its rangeFind a conjecture for $F_1+F_2+…+F_n$Proof involving Fibonacci number and binomial coefficientCombinatorial proof of $n choose 1 + n choose 3 +cdots = n choose 0 + n choose 2+cdots$Generating function of even Fibonacci numbers













13












$begingroup$


Show that $2n choose n + 32n-1 choose n + 3^22n-2 choose n + cdots + 3^nn choose n \ = 2n+1 choose n+1 + 22n+1 choose n+2 + 2^22n+1 choose n+3 + cdots + 2^n2n+1 choose 2n+1$



One way that I did it was to use the idea of generating functions.
For the left hand side expression, I can find 2 functions. Consider;



$$f_1 (x) = frac1(1-3x) \ = 1 + 3^1x + 3^2x^2 + 3^3x^3 + cdots + 3^nx^n + cdots \ f_2(x) = frac1(1-x)^n+1 \ = n choose n + n+1 choose nx + n+2 choose nx^2 + cdots + 2n-1 choose nx^n-1 + 2n choose nx^n + cdots + $$



Consider the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_1 (x) . f_2 (x)$. Then the coefficient will be the expression on the left hand side.



Now we further consider 2 functions for the right-hand side expression.



Consider;



$$f_3 (x) = frac 1(1-2x) \ = 1 + 2^1x + 2^2x^2 + cdots + 2^n-1x^n-1 + 2^nx^n + cdots \ f_4 (x) = (1+x)^2n+1 \= 1 + 2n+1 choose 1x + cdots + 2n+1 choose n-1x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose nx^n +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1 \ = 2n+1 choose 2n+1 + 2n+1 choose 2nx + 2n+1 choose 2n-1x^2 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+2x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose n+1x^n + \
+ 2n+1 choose nx^n+1 +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1$$



Hence the coefficient of $x^n$ is the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_3(x) . f_4(x)$



This is what I managed to do so far. I'm not sure if $f_1(x) .f_2(x) = f_3(x).f_4(x)$. If the two functions are indeed equal, then I can conclude that their coefficient of $x^n$ must be equal, which will immediately answer the question. If they are equal, how do I show that they are?



If the two functions are not equal? How do I proceed to show this question?



Edit: It might not be true that the product of the two functions are equal. I tried substituting $x=0.1, n=1$. Seems like the two values are not equal. How do I proceed with this question?










share|cite|improve this question











$endgroup$











  • $begingroup$
    The two functions are not equal. In general for rational expressions, ie fractions where numerator and denominator are polynomials, if $a(x)/b(x)=c(x)/d(x)$ for all $x$ (ie expressions are identical), then you must have the polynomial equality $a(x)d(x)=b(x)c(x)$ which is only true if the two products are the same polynomial. If both fractions, $a(x)/b(x)$ and $c(x)/d(x)$, are without common factors, this is only true if $a(x)=kcdot c(x)$ and $b(x)=kcdot d(x)$ for some constant $k$.
    $endgroup$
    – Einar Rødland
    Apr 25 at 6:43










  • $begingroup$
    Noted! Thanks for the explanation!
    $endgroup$
    – Icycarus
    Apr 25 at 6:46















13












$begingroup$


Show that $2n choose n + 32n-1 choose n + 3^22n-2 choose n + cdots + 3^nn choose n \ = 2n+1 choose n+1 + 22n+1 choose n+2 + 2^22n+1 choose n+3 + cdots + 2^n2n+1 choose 2n+1$



One way that I did it was to use the idea of generating functions.
For the left hand side expression, I can find 2 functions. Consider;



$$f_1 (x) = frac1(1-3x) \ = 1 + 3^1x + 3^2x^2 + 3^3x^3 + cdots + 3^nx^n + cdots \ f_2(x) = frac1(1-x)^n+1 \ = n choose n + n+1 choose nx + n+2 choose nx^2 + cdots + 2n-1 choose nx^n-1 + 2n choose nx^n + cdots + $$



Consider the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_1 (x) . f_2 (x)$. Then the coefficient will be the expression on the left hand side.



Now we further consider 2 functions for the right-hand side expression.



Consider;



$$f_3 (x) = frac 1(1-2x) \ = 1 + 2^1x + 2^2x^2 + cdots + 2^n-1x^n-1 + 2^nx^n + cdots \ f_4 (x) = (1+x)^2n+1 \= 1 + 2n+1 choose 1x + cdots + 2n+1 choose n-1x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose nx^n +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1 \ = 2n+1 choose 2n+1 + 2n+1 choose 2nx + 2n+1 choose 2n-1x^2 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+2x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose n+1x^n + \
+ 2n+1 choose nx^n+1 +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1$$



Hence the coefficient of $x^n$ is the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_3(x) . f_4(x)$



This is what I managed to do so far. I'm not sure if $f_1(x) .f_2(x) = f_3(x).f_4(x)$. If the two functions are indeed equal, then I can conclude that their coefficient of $x^n$ must be equal, which will immediately answer the question. If they are equal, how do I show that they are?



If the two functions are not equal? How do I proceed to show this question?



Edit: It might not be true that the product of the two functions are equal. I tried substituting $x=0.1, n=1$. Seems like the two values are not equal. How do I proceed with this question?










share|cite|improve this question











$endgroup$











  • $begingroup$
    The two functions are not equal. In general for rational expressions, ie fractions where numerator and denominator are polynomials, if $a(x)/b(x)=c(x)/d(x)$ for all $x$ (ie expressions are identical), then you must have the polynomial equality $a(x)d(x)=b(x)c(x)$ which is only true if the two products are the same polynomial. If both fractions, $a(x)/b(x)$ and $c(x)/d(x)$, are without common factors, this is only true if $a(x)=kcdot c(x)$ and $b(x)=kcdot d(x)$ for some constant $k$.
    $endgroup$
    – Einar Rødland
    Apr 25 at 6:43










  • $begingroup$
    Noted! Thanks for the explanation!
    $endgroup$
    – Icycarus
    Apr 25 at 6:46













13












13








13


5



$begingroup$


Show that $2n choose n + 32n-1 choose n + 3^22n-2 choose n + cdots + 3^nn choose n \ = 2n+1 choose n+1 + 22n+1 choose n+2 + 2^22n+1 choose n+3 + cdots + 2^n2n+1 choose 2n+1$



One way that I did it was to use the idea of generating functions.
For the left hand side expression, I can find 2 functions. Consider;



$$f_1 (x) = frac1(1-3x) \ = 1 + 3^1x + 3^2x^2 + 3^3x^3 + cdots + 3^nx^n + cdots \ f_2(x) = frac1(1-x)^n+1 \ = n choose n + n+1 choose nx + n+2 choose nx^2 + cdots + 2n-1 choose nx^n-1 + 2n choose nx^n + cdots + $$



Consider the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_1 (x) . f_2 (x)$. Then the coefficient will be the expression on the left hand side.



Now we further consider 2 functions for the right-hand side expression.



Consider;



$$f_3 (x) = frac 1(1-2x) \ = 1 + 2^1x + 2^2x^2 + cdots + 2^n-1x^n-1 + 2^nx^n + cdots \ f_4 (x) = (1+x)^2n+1 \= 1 + 2n+1 choose 1x + cdots + 2n+1 choose n-1x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose nx^n +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1 \ = 2n+1 choose 2n+1 + 2n+1 choose 2nx + 2n+1 choose 2n-1x^2 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+2x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose n+1x^n + \
+ 2n+1 choose nx^n+1 +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1$$



Hence the coefficient of $x^n$ is the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_3(x) . f_4(x)$



This is what I managed to do so far. I'm not sure if $f_1(x) .f_2(x) = f_3(x).f_4(x)$. If the two functions are indeed equal, then I can conclude that their coefficient of $x^n$ must be equal, which will immediately answer the question. If they are equal, how do I show that they are?



If the two functions are not equal? How do I proceed to show this question?



Edit: It might not be true that the product of the two functions are equal. I tried substituting $x=0.1, n=1$. Seems like the two values are not equal. How do I proceed with this question?










share|cite|improve this question











$endgroup$




Show that $2n choose n + 32n-1 choose n + 3^22n-2 choose n + cdots + 3^nn choose n \ = 2n+1 choose n+1 + 22n+1 choose n+2 + 2^22n+1 choose n+3 + cdots + 2^n2n+1 choose 2n+1$



One way that I did it was to use the idea of generating functions.
For the left hand side expression, I can find 2 functions. Consider;



$$f_1 (x) = frac1(1-3x) \ = 1 + 3^1x + 3^2x^2 + 3^3x^3 + cdots + 3^nx^n + cdots \ f_2(x) = frac1(1-x)^n+1 \ = n choose n + n+1 choose nx + n+2 choose nx^2 + cdots + 2n-1 choose nx^n-1 + 2n choose nx^n + cdots + $$



Consider the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_1 (x) . f_2 (x)$. Then the coefficient will be the expression on the left hand side.



Now we further consider 2 functions for the right-hand side expression.



Consider;



$$f_3 (x) = frac 1(1-2x) \ = 1 + 2^1x + 2^2x^2 + cdots + 2^n-1x^n-1 + 2^nx^n + cdots \ f_4 (x) = (1+x)^2n+1 \= 1 + 2n+1 choose 1x + cdots + 2n+1 choose n-1x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose nx^n +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1 \ = 2n+1 choose 2n+1 + 2n+1 choose 2nx + 2n+1 choose 2n-1x^2 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+2x^n-1 + 2n+1 choose n+1x^n + \
+ 2n+1 choose nx^n+1 +cdots + 2n+1 choose 0x^2n +1$$



Hence the coefficient of $x^n$ is the coefficient of $x^n$ in the expansion of $f_3(x) . f_4(x)$



This is what I managed to do so far. I'm not sure if $f_1(x) .f_2(x) = f_3(x).f_4(x)$. If the two functions are indeed equal, then I can conclude that their coefficient of $x^n$ must be equal, which will immediately answer the question. If they are equal, how do I show that they are?



If the two functions are not equal? How do I proceed to show this question?



Edit: It might not be true that the product of the two functions are equal. I tried substituting $x=0.1, n=1$. Seems like the two values are not equal. How do I proceed with this question?







combinatorics induction binomial-coefficients generating-functions combinatorial-proofs






share|cite|improve this question















share|cite|improve this question













share|cite|improve this question




share|cite|improve this question








edited Apr 25 at 14:29









Andreas

8,5461137




8,5461137










asked Apr 25 at 5:55









IcycarusIcycarus

5471315




5471315











  • $begingroup$
    The two functions are not equal. In general for rational expressions, ie fractions where numerator and denominator are polynomials, if $a(x)/b(x)=c(x)/d(x)$ for all $x$ (ie expressions are identical), then you must have the polynomial equality $a(x)d(x)=b(x)c(x)$ which is only true if the two products are the same polynomial. If both fractions, $a(x)/b(x)$ and $c(x)/d(x)$, are without common factors, this is only true if $a(x)=kcdot c(x)$ and $b(x)=kcdot d(x)$ for some constant $k$.
    $endgroup$
    – Einar Rødland
    Apr 25 at 6:43










  • $begingroup$
    Noted! Thanks for the explanation!
    $endgroup$
    – Icycarus
    Apr 25 at 6:46
















  • $begingroup$
    The two functions are not equal. In general for rational expressions, ie fractions where numerator and denominator are polynomials, if $a(x)/b(x)=c(x)/d(x)$ for all $x$ (ie expressions are identical), then you must have the polynomial equality $a(x)d(x)=b(x)c(x)$ which is only true if the two products are the same polynomial. If both fractions, $a(x)/b(x)$ and $c(x)/d(x)$, are without common factors, this is only true if $a(x)=kcdot c(x)$ and $b(x)=kcdot d(x)$ for some constant $k$.
    $endgroup$
    – Einar Rødland
    Apr 25 at 6:43










  • $begingroup$
    Noted! Thanks for the explanation!
    $endgroup$
    – Icycarus
    Apr 25 at 6:46















$begingroup$
The two functions are not equal. In general for rational expressions, ie fractions where numerator and denominator are polynomials, if $a(x)/b(x)=c(x)/d(x)$ for all $x$ (ie expressions are identical), then you must have the polynomial equality $a(x)d(x)=b(x)c(x)$ which is only true if the two products are the same polynomial. If both fractions, $a(x)/b(x)$ and $c(x)/d(x)$, are without common factors, this is only true if $a(x)=kcdot c(x)$ and $b(x)=kcdot d(x)$ for some constant $k$.
$endgroup$
– Einar Rødland
Apr 25 at 6:43




$begingroup$
The two functions are not equal. In general for rational expressions, ie fractions where numerator and denominator are polynomials, if $a(x)/b(x)=c(x)/d(x)$ for all $x$ (ie expressions are identical), then you must have the polynomial equality $a(x)d(x)=b(x)c(x)$ which is only true if the two products are the same polynomial. If both fractions, $a(x)/b(x)$ and $c(x)/d(x)$, are without common factors, this is only true if $a(x)=kcdot c(x)$ and $b(x)=kcdot d(x)$ for some constant $k$.
$endgroup$
– Einar Rødland
Apr 25 at 6:43












$begingroup$
Noted! Thanks for the explanation!
$endgroup$
– Icycarus
Apr 25 at 6:46




$begingroup$
Noted! Thanks for the explanation!
$endgroup$
– Icycarus
Apr 25 at 6:46










3 Answers
3






active

oldest

votes


















17












$begingroup$

Here is a combinatorial proof. Both sides of the equation answer the following question:




How many sequences are there of length $2n+1$, with entries in $0,1,2$, such that



  • at least one of the entries is a $2$, and

  • there are exactly $n$ zeroes to the left of the leftmost $2$?



LHS:



Suppose the leftmost $2$ occurs in spot $k+1$. Among the $k$ spots before hand, you must choose $n$ of the entries to be zero. The $2n+1-(k+1)=2n-k$ spots afterward can be anything. There are $binomkn3^2n-k$ ways to do this. Then sum over $k$.



RHS:



Suppose there are $j$ entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$. Choose those entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$ in $binom2n+1j$ ways. The leftmost $n$ of these entries must be zero, the $(n+1)^st$ entry must be two, then the remaining $j-(n+1)$ entries can be chosen freely among $0$ and $2$. There are $binom2n+1j2^j-(n+1)$ ways to do this, then sum over $j$.






share|cite|improve this answer









$endgroup$








  • 2




    $begingroup$
    How did you get to the process of the answer? The way that you thought of the answer is quite a unique way and I was wondering if you can share how you managed to think about this solution
    $endgroup$
    – Icycarus
    Apr 25 at 6:42






  • 5




    $begingroup$
    @Icycarus The LHS has a fixed lower index and changing upper index. This reminded me of the Hockey stick identity, whose proof involves conditioning on where the largest element of a subset lies. Since there was a $3^i$ afterwards, I figured ternary sequences had to be involved somehow.
    $endgroup$
    – Mike Earnest
    Apr 25 at 6:47






  • 2




    $begingroup$
    @Icycarus The method of counting combinatorial objects is called 'combinatrial proof'. Most of math taught in school is concerned with manipulating algebraic structures; combinatorial identities are actually intended to be mapped to ... let's say somewhat real-world arrangements of objects. And the kind of proof used here involves manipulation of those arrangements rather than straight algebra. You'll get the feel for it with some much more basic identity proofs. There's often an 'easy' map from algebraic op to combinatorial op.
    $endgroup$
    – Mitch
    Apr 25 at 12:51


















3












$begingroup$

We seek to show that



$$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n 3^q
= sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n+1+q 2^q.$$



We have for the LHS



$$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n-q 3^q
= sum_q=0^n 3^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n-q
\ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_q=0^n 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q.$$



The coefficient extractor controls the range and we obtain



$$[z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_qge 0 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q
= [z^n] (1+z)^2n frac11-3z/(1+z)
\ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



We could conclude at this point by inspection. Continuing anyway we
get for the RHS



$$sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n-q 2^q
= sum_q=0^n 2^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n+1
\ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_q=0^n 2^q z^q.$$



The coefficient extractor once more controls the range and we obtain



$$[z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_qge 0 2^q z^q
= [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



The two generating functions are the same and we have equality for LHS
and RHS.






share|cite|improve this answer









$endgroup$




















    2












    $begingroup$

    Using your functions, consider
    $$
    3^n f_2(frac13) = 3^n frac1(1-frac13)^n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n\ = n choose n3^n + n+1 choose n3^n-1 + cdots + 2n choose n + colorred 2n +1 choose n 3^-1+ cdots
    $$

    and further
    $$
    2^n f_4 (frac12) = 2^n (frac32)^2n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n \= 2n+1 choose 2n+12^n + 2n+1 choose 2n2^n-1 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+1 + colorred 2n +1 choose n 2^-1+ cdots + 2n +1 choose 0 2^-n-1
    $$

    The two expressions both equal $frac32 (frac92)^n$, and the first $n+1$ many terms represent the LHS and RHS of the original question. The terms in red are extra terms: once it is established that these terms also equal, the questions is solved. That is, show that
    $$
    sum_k=1^infty2n +k choose n 3^-k = sum_k=1^n+12n +1 choose n+1-k 2^-k
    $$






    share|cite|improve this answer











    $endgroup$








    • 2




      $begingroup$
      I think something is awry. For $3^nf_2(1/3)$, the sum is infinite, but OP’s sum is finite.
      $endgroup$
      – Mike Earnest
      Apr 25 at 7:24










    • $begingroup$
      @MikeEarnest I resolved it and put it in the main text.
      $endgroup$
      – Andreas
      Apr 25 at 14:31











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    3 Answers
    3






    active

    oldest

    votes








    3 Answers
    3






    active

    oldest

    votes









    active

    oldest

    votes






    active

    oldest

    votes









    17












    $begingroup$

    Here is a combinatorial proof. Both sides of the equation answer the following question:




    How many sequences are there of length $2n+1$, with entries in $0,1,2$, such that



    • at least one of the entries is a $2$, and

    • there are exactly $n$ zeroes to the left of the leftmost $2$?



    LHS:



    Suppose the leftmost $2$ occurs in spot $k+1$. Among the $k$ spots before hand, you must choose $n$ of the entries to be zero. The $2n+1-(k+1)=2n-k$ spots afterward can be anything. There are $binomkn3^2n-k$ ways to do this. Then sum over $k$.



    RHS:



    Suppose there are $j$ entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$. Choose those entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$ in $binom2n+1j$ ways. The leftmost $n$ of these entries must be zero, the $(n+1)^st$ entry must be two, then the remaining $j-(n+1)$ entries can be chosen freely among $0$ and $2$. There are $binom2n+1j2^j-(n+1)$ ways to do this, then sum over $j$.






    share|cite|improve this answer









    $endgroup$








    • 2




      $begingroup$
      How did you get to the process of the answer? The way that you thought of the answer is quite a unique way and I was wondering if you can share how you managed to think about this solution
      $endgroup$
      – Icycarus
      Apr 25 at 6:42






    • 5




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The LHS has a fixed lower index and changing upper index. This reminded me of the Hockey stick identity, whose proof involves conditioning on where the largest element of a subset lies. Since there was a $3^i$ afterwards, I figured ternary sequences had to be involved somehow.
      $endgroup$
      – Mike Earnest
      Apr 25 at 6:47






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The method of counting combinatorial objects is called 'combinatrial proof'. Most of math taught in school is concerned with manipulating algebraic structures; combinatorial identities are actually intended to be mapped to ... let's say somewhat real-world arrangements of objects. And the kind of proof used here involves manipulation of those arrangements rather than straight algebra. You'll get the feel for it with some much more basic identity proofs. There's often an 'easy' map from algebraic op to combinatorial op.
      $endgroup$
      – Mitch
      Apr 25 at 12:51















    17












    $begingroup$

    Here is a combinatorial proof. Both sides of the equation answer the following question:




    How many sequences are there of length $2n+1$, with entries in $0,1,2$, such that



    • at least one of the entries is a $2$, and

    • there are exactly $n$ zeroes to the left of the leftmost $2$?



    LHS:



    Suppose the leftmost $2$ occurs in spot $k+1$. Among the $k$ spots before hand, you must choose $n$ of the entries to be zero. The $2n+1-(k+1)=2n-k$ spots afterward can be anything. There are $binomkn3^2n-k$ ways to do this. Then sum over $k$.



    RHS:



    Suppose there are $j$ entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$. Choose those entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$ in $binom2n+1j$ ways. The leftmost $n$ of these entries must be zero, the $(n+1)^st$ entry must be two, then the remaining $j-(n+1)$ entries can be chosen freely among $0$ and $2$. There are $binom2n+1j2^j-(n+1)$ ways to do this, then sum over $j$.






    share|cite|improve this answer









    $endgroup$








    • 2




      $begingroup$
      How did you get to the process of the answer? The way that you thought of the answer is quite a unique way and I was wondering if you can share how you managed to think about this solution
      $endgroup$
      – Icycarus
      Apr 25 at 6:42






    • 5




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The LHS has a fixed lower index and changing upper index. This reminded me of the Hockey stick identity, whose proof involves conditioning on where the largest element of a subset lies. Since there was a $3^i$ afterwards, I figured ternary sequences had to be involved somehow.
      $endgroup$
      – Mike Earnest
      Apr 25 at 6:47






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The method of counting combinatorial objects is called 'combinatrial proof'. Most of math taught in school is concerned with manipulating algebraic structures; combinatorial identities are actually intended to be mapped to ... let's say somewhat real-world arrangements of objects. And the kind of proof used here involves manipulation of those arrangements rather than straight algebra. You'll get the feel for it with some much more basic identity proofs. There's often an 'easy' map from algebraic op to combinatorial op.
      $endgroup$
      – Mitch
      Apr 25 at 12:51













    17












    17








    17





    $begingroup$

    Here is a combinatorial proof. Both sides of the equation answer the following question:




    How many sequences are there of length $2n+1$, with entries in $0,1,2$, such that



    • at least one of the entries is a $2$, and

    • there are exactly $n$ zeroes to the left of the leftmost $2$?



    LHS:



    Suppose the leftmost $2$ occurs in spot $k+1$. Among the $k$ spots before hand, you must choose $n$ of the entries to be zero. The $2n+1-(k+1)=2n-k$ spots afterward can be anything. There are $binomkn3^2n-k$ ways to do this. Then sum over $k$.



    RHS:



    Suppose there are $j$ entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$. Choose those entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$ in $binom2n+1j$ ways. The leftmost $n$ of these entries must be zero, the $(n+1)^st$ entry must be two, then the remaining $j-(n+1)$ entries can be chosen freely among $0$ and $2$. There are $binom2n+1j2^j-(n+1)$ ways to do this, then sum over $j$.






    share|cite|improve this answer









    $endgroup$



    Here is a combinatorial proof. Both sides of the equation answer the following question:




    How many sequences are there of length $2n+1$, with entries in $0,1,2$, such that



    • at least one of the entries is a $2$, and

    • there are exactly $n$ zeroes to the left of the leftmost $2$?



    LHS:



    Suppose the leftmost $2$ occurs in spot $k+1$. Among the $k$ spots before hand, you must choose $n$ of the entries to be zero. The $2n+1-(k+1)=2n-k$ spots afterward can be anything. There are $binomkn3^2n-k$ ways to do this. Then sum over $k$.



    RHS:



    Suppose there are $j$ entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$. Choose those entries which are equal to $0$ or $2$ in $binom2n+1j$ ways. The leftmost $n$ of these entries must be zero, the $(n+1)^st$ entry must be two, then the remaining $j-(n+1)$ entries can be chosen freely among $0$ and $2$. There are $binom2n+1j2^j-(n+1)$ ways to do this, then sum over $j$.







    share|cite|improve this answer












    share|cite|improve this answer



    share|cite|improve this answer










    answered Apr 25 at 6:37









    Mike EarnestMike Earnest

    28.8k22256




    28.8k22256







    • 2




      $begingroup$
      How did you get to the process of the answer? The way that you thought of the answer is quite a unique way and I was wondering if you can share how you managed to think about this solution
      $endgroup$
      – Icycarus
      Apr 25 at 6:42






    • 5




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The LHS has a fixed lower index and changing upper index. This reminded me of the Hockey stick identity, whose proof involves conditioning on where the largest element of a subset lies. Since there was a $3^i$ afterwards, I figured ternary sequences had to be involved somehow.
      $endgroup$
      – Mike Earnest
      Apr 25 at 6:47






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The method of counting combinatorial objects is called 'combinatrial proof'. Most of math taught in school is concerned with manipulating algebraic structures; combinatorial identities are actually intended to be mapped to ... let's say somewhat real-world arrangements of objects. And the kind of proof used here involves manipulation of those arrangements rather than straight algebra. You'll get the feel for it with some much more basic identity proofs. There's often an 'easy' map from algebraic op to combinatorial op.
      $endgroup$
      – Mitch
      Apr 25 at 12:51












    • 2




      $begingroup$
      How did you get to the process of the answer? The way that you thought of the answer is quite a unique way and I was wondering if you can share how you managed to think about this solution
      $endgroup$
      – Icycarus
      Apr 25 at 6:42






    • 5




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The LHS has a fixed lower index and changing upper index. This reminded me of the Hockey stick identity, whose proof involves conditioning on where the largest element of a subset lies. Since there was a $3^i$ afterwards, I figured ternary sequences had to be involved somehow.
      $endgroup$
      – Mike Earnest
      Apr 25 at 6:47






    • 2




      $begingroup$
      @Icycarus The method of counting combinatorial objects is called 'combinatrial proof'. Most of math taught in school is concerned with manipulating algebraic structures; combinatorial identities are actually intended to be mapped to ... let's say somewhat real-world arrangements of objects. And the kind of proof used here involves manipulation of those arrangements rather than straight algebra. You'll get the feel for it with some much more basic identity proofs. There's often an 'easy' map from algebraic op to combinatorial op.
      $endgroup$
      – Mitch
      Apr 25 at 12:51







    2




    2




    $begingroup$
    How did you get to the process of the answer? The way that you thought of the answer is quite a unique way and I was wondering if you can share how you managed to think about this solution
    $endgroup$
    – Icycarus
    Apr 25 at 6:42




    $begingroup$
    How did you get to the process of the answer? The way that you thought of the answer is quite a unique way and I was wondering if you can share how you managed to think about this solution
    $endgroup$
    – Icycarus
    Apr 25 at 6:42




    5




    5




    $begingroup$
    @Icycarus The LHS has a fixed lower index and changing upper index. This reminded me of the Hockey stick identity, whose proof involves conditioning on where the largest element of a subset lies. Since there was a $3^i$ afterwards, I figured ternary sequences had to be involved somehow.
    $endgroup$
    – Mike Earnest
    Apr 25 at 6:47




    $begingroup$
    @Icycarus The LHS has a fixed lower index and changing upper index. This reminded me of the Hockey stick identity, whose proof involves conditioning on where the largest element of a subset lies. Since there was a $3^i$ afterwards, I figured ternary sequences had to be involved somehow.
    $endgroup$
    – Mike Earnest
    Apr 25 at 6:47




    2




    2




    $begingroup$
    @Icycarus The method of counting combinatorial objects is called 'combinatrial proof'. Most of math taught in school is concerned with manipulating algebraic structures; combinatorial identities are actually intended to be mapped to ... let's say somewhat real-world arrangements of objects. And the kind of proof used here involves manipulation of those arrangements rather than straight algebra. You'll get the feel for it with some much more basic identity proofs. There's often an 'easy' map from algebraic op to combinatorial op.
    $endgroup$
    – Mitch
    Apr 25 at 12:51




    $begingroup$
    @Icycarus The method of counting combinatorial objects is called 'combinatrial proof'. Most of math taught in school is concerned with manipulating algebraic structures; combinatorial identities are actually intended to be mapped to ... let's say somewhat real-world arrangements of objects. And the kind of proof used here involves manipulation of those arrangements rather than straight algebra. You'll get the feel for it with some much more basic identity proofs. There's often an 'easy' map from algebraic op to combinatorial op.
    $endgroup$
    – Mitch
    Apr 25 at 12:51











    3












    $begingroup$

    We seek to show that



    $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n 3^q
    = sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n+1+q 2^q.$$



    We have for the LHS



    $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n-q 3^q
    = sum_q=0^n 3^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n-q
    \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_q=0^n 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q.$$



    The coefficient extractor controls the range and we obtain



    $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_qge 0 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q
    = [z^n] (1+z)^2n frac11-3z/(1+z)
    \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



    We could conclude at this point by inspection. Continuing anyway we
    get for the RHS



    $$sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n-q 2^q
    = sum_q=0^n 2^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n+1
    \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_q=0^n 2^q z^q.$$



    The coefficient extractor once more controls the range and we obtain



    $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_qge 0 2^q z^q
    = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



    The two generating functions are the same and we have equality for LHS
    and RHS.






    share|cite|improve this answer









    $endgroup$

















      3












      $begingroup$

      We seek to show that



      $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n 3^q
      = sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n+1+q 2^q.$$



      We have for the LHS



      $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n-q 3^q
      = sum_q=0^n 3^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n-q
      \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_q=0^n 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q.$$



      The coefficient extractor controls the range and we obtain



      $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_qge 0 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q
      = [z^n] (1+z)^2n frac11-3z/(1+z)
      \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



      We could conclude at this point by inspection. Continuing anyway we
      get for the RHS



      $$sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n-q 2^q
      = sum_q=0^n 2^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n+1
      \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_q=0^n 2^q z^q.$$



      The coefficient extractor once more controls the range and we obtain



      $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_qge 0 2^q z^q
      = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



      The two generating functions are the same and we have equality for LHS
      and RHS.






      share|cite|improve this answer









      $endgroup$















        3












        3








        3





        $begingroup$

        We seek to show that



        $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n 3^q
        = sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n+1+q 2^q.$$



        We have for the LHS



        $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n-q 3^q
        = sum_q=0^n 3^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n-q
        \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_q=0^n 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q.$$



        The coefficient extractor controls the range and we obtain



        $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_qge 0 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q
        = [z^n] (1+z)^2n frac11-3z/(1+z)
        \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



        We could conclude at this point by inspection. Continuing anyway we
        get for the RHS



        $$sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n-q 2^q
        = sum_q=0^n 2^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n+1
        \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_q=0^n 2^q z^q.$$



        The coefficient extractor once more controls the range and we obtain



        $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_qge 0 2^q z^q
        = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



        The two generating functions are the same and we have equality for LHS
        and RHS.






        share|cite|improve this answer









        $endgroup$



        We seek to show that



        $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n 3^q
        = sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n+1+q 2^q.$$



        We have for the LHS



        $$sum_q=0^n 2n-qchoose n-q 3^q
        = sum_q=0^n 3^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n-q
        \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_q=0^n 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q.$$



        The coefficient extractor controls the range and we obtain



        $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n sum_qge 0 3^q z^q (1+z)^-q
        = [z^n] (1+z)^2n frac11-3z/(1+z)
        \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



        We could conclude at this point by inspection. Continuing anyway we
        get for the RHS



        $$sum_q=0^n 2n+1choose n-q 2^q
        = sum_q=0^n 2^q [z^n-q] (1+z)^2n+1
        \ = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_q=0^n 2^q z^q.$$



        The coefficient extractor once more controls the range and we obtain



        $$[z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 sum_qge 0 2^q z^q
        = [z^n] (1+z)^2n+1 frac11-2z.$$



        The two generating functions are the same and we have equality for LHS
        and RHS.







        share|cite|improve this answer












        share|cite|improve this answer



        share|cite|improve this answer










        answered Apr 25 at 16:43









        Marko RiedelMarko Riedel

        41.9k341112




        41.9k341112





















            2












            $begingroup$

            Using your functions, consider
            $$
            3^n f_2(frac13) = 3^n frac1(1-frac13)^n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n\ = n choose n3^n + n+1 choose n3^n-1 + cdots + 2n choose n + colorred 2n +1 choose n 3^-1+ cdots
            $$

            and further
            $$
            2^n f_4 (frac12) = 2^n (frac32)^2n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n \= 2n+1 choose 2n+12^n + 2n+1 choose 2n2^n-1 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+1 + colorred 2n +1 choose n 2^-1+ cdots + 2n +1 choose 0 2^-n-1
            $$

            The two expressions both equal $frac32 (frac92)^n$, and the first $n+1$ many terms represent the LHS and RHS of the original question. The terms in red are extra terms: once it is established that these terms also equal, the questions is solved. That is, show that
            $$
            sum_k=1^infty2n +k choose n 3^-k = sum_k=1^n+12n +1 choose n+1-k 2^-k
            $$






            share|cite|improve this answer











            $endgroup$








            • 2




              $begingroup$
              I think something is awry. For $3^nf_2(1/3)$, the sum is infinite, but OP’s sum is finite.
              $endgroup$
              – Mike Earnest
              Apr 25 at 7:24










            • $begingroup$
              @MikeEarnest I resolved it and put it in the main text.
              $endgroup$
              – Andreas
              Apr 25 at 14:31















            2












            $begingroup$

            Using your functions, consider
            $$
            3^n f_2(frac13) = 3^n frac1(1-frac13)^n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n\ = n choose n3^n + n+1 choose n3^n-1 + cdots + 2n choose n + colorred 2n +1 choose n 3^-1+ cdots
            $$

            and further
            $$
            2^n f_4 (frac12) = 2^n (frac32)^2n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n \= 2n+1 choose 2n+12^n + 2n+1 choose 2n2^n-1 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+1 + colorred 2n +1 choose n 2^-1+ cdots + 2n +1 choose 0 2^-n-1
            $$

            The two expressions both equal $frac32 (frac92)^n$, and the first $n+1$ many terms represent the LHS and RHS of the original question. The terms in red are extra terms: once it is established that these terms also equal, the questions is solved. That is, show that
            $$
            sum_k=1^infty2n +k choose n 3^-k = sum_k=1^n+12n +1 choose n+1-k 2^-k
            $$






            share|cite|improve this answer











            $endgroup$








            • 2




              $begingroup$
              I think something is awry. For $3^nf_2(1/3)$, the sum is infinite, but OP’s sum is finite.
              $endgroup$
              – Mike Earnest
              Apr 25 at 7:24










            • $begingroup$
              @MikeEarnest I resolved it and put it in the main text.
              $endgroup$
              – Andreas
              Apr 25 at 14:31













            2












            2








            2





            $begingroup$

            Using your functions, consider
            $$
            3^n f_2(frac13) = 3^n frac1(1-frac13)^n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n\ = n choose n3^n + n+1 choose n3^n-1 + cdots + 2n choose n + colorred 2n +1 choose n 3^-1+ cdots
            $$

            and further
            $$
            2^n f_4 (frac12) = 2^n (frac32)^2n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n \= 2n+1 choose 2n+12^n + 2n+1 choose 2n2^n-1 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+1 + colorred 2n +1 choose n 2^-1+ cdots + 2n +1 choose 0 2^-n-1
            $$

            The two expressions both equal $frac32 (frac92)^n$, and the first $n+1$ many terms represent the LHS and RHS of the original question. The terms in red are extra terms: once it is established that these terms also equal, the questions is solved. That is, show that
            $$
            sum_k=1^infty2n +k choose n 3^-k = sum_k=1^n+12n +1 choose n+1-k 2^-k
            $$






            share|cite|improve this answer











            $endgroup$



            Using your functions, consider
            $$
            3^n f_2(frac13) = 3^n frac1(1-frac13)^n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n\ = n choose n3^n + n+1 choose n3^n-1 + cdots + 2n choose n + colorred 2n +1 choose n 3^-1+ cdots
            $$

            and further
            $$
            2^n f_4 (frac12) = 2^n (frac32)^2n+1 = frac32 (frac92)^n \= 2n+1 choose 2n+12^n + 2n+1 choose 2n2^n-1 + cdots + 2n+1 choose n+1 + colorred 2n +1 choose n 2^-1+ cdots + 2n +1 choose 0 2^-n-1
            $$

            The two expressions both equal $frac32 (frac92)^n$, and the first $n+1$ many terms represent the LHS and RHS of the original question. The terms in red are extra terms: once it is established that these terms also equal, the questions is solved. That is, show that
            $$
            sum_k=1^infty2n +k choose n 3^-k = sum_k=1^n+12n +1 choose n+1-k 2^-k
            $$







            share|cite|improve this answer














            share|cite|improve this answer



            share|cite|improve this answer








            edited Apr 25 at 15:24

























            answered Apr 25 at 6:51









            AndreasAndreas

            8,5461137




            8,5461137







            • 2




              $begingroup$
              I think something is awry. For $3^nf_2(1/3)$, the sum is infinite, but OP’s sum is finite.
              $endgroup$
              – Mike Earnest
              Apr 25 at 7:24










            • $begingroup$
              @MikeEarnest I resolved it and put it in the main text.
              $endgroup$
              – Andreas
              Apr 25 at 14:31












            • 2




              $begingroup$
              I think something is awry. For $3^nf_2(1/3)$, the sum is infinite, but OP’s sum is finite.
              $endgroup$
              – Mike Earnest
              Apr 25 at 7:24










            • $begingroup$
              @MikeEarnest I resolved it and put it in the main text.
              $endgroup$
              – Andreas
              Apr 25 at 14:31







            2




            2




            $begingroup$
            I think something is awry. For $3^nf_2(1/3)$, the sum is infinite, but OP’s sum is finite.
            $endgroup$
            – Mike Earnest
            Apr 25 at 7:24




            $begingroup$
            I think something is awry. For $3^nf_2(1/3)$, the sum is infinite, but OP’s sum is finite.
            $endgroup$
            – Mike Earnest
            Apr 25 at 7:24












            $begingroup$
            @MikeEarnest I resolved it and put it in the main text.
            $endgroup$
            – Andreas
            Apr 25 at 14:31




            $begingroup$
            @MikeEarnest I resolved it and put it in the main text.
            $endgroup$
            – Andreas
            Apr 25 at 14:31

















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