Question:medium

If a set \(A\) contains \(3\) elements and another set \(B\) contains \(4\) elements, then the number of functions from \(A\) to \(B\), which are not injective, is

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For questions involving non-injective functions: \[ \text{Non-injective} = \text{Total Functions} - \text{Injective Functions} \] \[ =n^m-{}^{n}P_m \]
Updated On: Jun 16, 2026
  • \(24\)
  • \(64\)
  • \(40\)
  • \(12\)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Set up the plan.
Not-injective functions $=$ all functions $-$ injective functions. We count both and subtract.

Step 2: Count all functions from $A$ to $B$.
Set $A$ has $3$ elements and $B$ has $4$. Each of the $3$ inputs can map to any of the $4$ outputs, giving $4 \times 4 \times 4 = 4^3 = 64$ functions.

Step 3: Recall what injective needs.
An injective (one-to-one) function sends different inputs to different outputs. So the $3$ outputs must all be distinct.

Step 4: Count the injective functions.
The first input has $4$ choices, the second $3$ (one used up), the third $2$. That is $4 \times 3 \times 2 = 24$.

Step 5: Subtract to find not-injective.
Not-injective $= 64 - 24 = 40$.

Step 6: State the answer.
So $40$ functions from $A$ to $B$ are not injective. \[ \boxed{40} \]
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