Stat Mech : Balls in a box counting problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a statistical mechanics problem involving the arrangement of colored balls in a box. The solution provided includes a formula that accounts for the selection and arrangement of blue and red balls on either side of the box. A key point of confusion is the inclusion of a term for the arrangement of red balls, which the poster initially questioned due to their identical nature. However, it is clarified that the arrangement term is necessary because the balls are not indistinguishable, affecting the overall count of unique arrangements. The discussion concludes with an acknowledgment of the logic behind the formula, emphasizing the importance of considering all components in the arrangement.
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Homework Statement



I already have the solution to the problem. Just need some help deciphering the logic behind it.

There are V balls, which are identical except for their color. N of them are blue and V-N are red. We place the balls inside a box so that V/2 balls are on each side.

How many arrangements(states) accommodate a p number of blue balls on the left hand side of the box.


Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution



Actual Solution:

\Gamma = \frac{N!}{p! (N-P)!} (\frac{V}{2})^p (\frac{V}{2})^{N-p} (V-N)!

The explanation given for each term is as follows:

1) Pick p blue balls to occupy LHS
2) Spatially arrange p blue balls in LHS
3) Spatially arrange N-p blue balls on RHS
4) Spatially arrange all red balls inside the box.


Question:
I get the first three terms. I feel that the last term should not be there.

Since all red balls are identical, my feeling is that rearranging them in the remaining spots is not going to give any unique arrangements. Can someone please explain why the 4th term needs to be there?

Thanks!
 
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The balls apparently aren't indistinguishable. If they were, then the first factor shouldn't be there either because any selection of p blue balls out of N would be the same.
 
Makes perfect sense now. Thanks!
 
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