In a race with 30 runners where 5 trophies will be given to the top 9 runners (the trophies are distinct: first place, second place, etc), how many ways can this be done?
Options:
(A) 9^5 ways
(B) 8^9 ways
(C) 7^8 ways
(D) 8^7 ways
(E) 8^6 ways OK. Let's think. Some random thoughts first:
9 people can be prized with 5 distinct prizes in 9^5 ways The answer: (A).