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Odd-length permutation forces an even product

Question

Let nn be odd and let A1,A2,…,AnA_1,A_2,\dots,A_n be a rearrangement of 1,2,…,n1,2,\dots,n. Prove that (A1−1)(A2−2)⋯(An−n)(A_1-1)(A_2-2)\cdots(A_n-n) is even.

Short answer

The factors sum to zero. ∑i(Ai−i)=∑Ai−∑i=0\sum_i (A_i-i)=\sum A_i-\sum i=0. If every factor were odd, the sum of an odd number nn of odd integers would be odd, not 00. So some factor is even, and so is the product.

Adapted from Joshi, Denson & Downes, Quant Job Interview Questions and Answers, Q6.11, p.190; question and answer rewritten by SelfMadeQuant.com.

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