Question

what does the symbol for factorial function (n!) mean?
a. it means to divide a series of descending natural numbers.
c. it means to divide a series of ascending natural numbers.
b. it means to multiply a series of descending natural numbers.
d. it means to multiply a series of ascending natural numbers.
please select the best answer from the choices provided

Explanation:

The factorial function \(n!\) is defined as \(n\times(n - 1)\times(n - 2)\times\cdots\times1\). For example, \(5!=5\times4\times3\times2\times1\). This is a multiplication of a series of descending natural numbers. Options a and c mention division which is incorrect. Option d mentions ascending numbers which is wrong as the numbers are in descending order (from \(n\) down to \(1\)).

Answer:

B. It means to multiply a series of descending natural numbers.