Gift exchange problem

Asked Dec 12 '11 at 04:16

Active Dec 12 '11 at 04:23

Viewed 136 times

Possible Duplicate:
What's the General Expression For Probability of a Failed Gift Exchange Draw

4 couples are doing a gift exchange. Names are drawn randomly. Everyone gets a gift, but no one is allowed to pick either themself or their spouse. How many successful arrangements are there?

edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:21

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asked Dec 12 '11 at 04:16

lauren

2

I think one of the answers at http://math.stackexchange.com/questions/85470/secret-santa-problem covers this. – Gerry Myerson Dec 12 '11 at 04:21
See also http://math.stackexchange.com/questions/73341/whats-the-general-expression-for-probability-of-a-failed-gift-exchange-draw – Gerry Myerson Dec 12 '11 at 04:40
1

This answer gives the numerical value as $4752$; this one gives the general formula. – Brian M. Scott Dec 12 '11 at 04:55
Is there a reason why neither of you voted to close as duplicate? – joriki Dec 12 '11 at 08:39
Here's a link for the computation according to the general formula Brian linked to. I'm voting to close as a duplicate of that question. – joriki Dec 12 '11 at 11:44
@joriki, speaking only for myself, I was too rushed to read the other questions closely enough to be certain there is a duplication. But if you are convinced, pick one, vote to close, and I'll go along with you. – Gerry Myerson Dec 12 '11 at 11:47

Gift exchange problem

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