Question:medium

The value of $n$ for which the sum \[ \frac{{}^nC_0}{2^n} + 2\frac{{}^nC_1}{2^n} + 3\frac{{}^nC_2}{2^n} +\cdots+ (n+1)\frac{{}^nC_n}{2^n} =16 \] is

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Memorize: $\sum r\,{}^nC_r=n2^{n-1}$ and $\sum {}^nC_r=2^n$.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
  • $10$
  • $20$
  • $25$
  • $30$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Write the sum neatly.
The sum is $S=\displaystyle\sum_{r=0}^{n}(r+1)\dfrac{\binom{n}{r}}{2^n}.$ Pull out $\dfrac1{2^n}$ and split $(r+1)$ into $r$ and $1$.
Step 2: Split into two known sums.
$S=\dfrac1{2^n}\left(\displaystyle\sum_{r=0}^{n} r\binom{n}{r}+\sum_{r=0}^{n}\binom{n}{r}\right).$
Step 3: Use standard identities.
We know $\displaystyle\sum_{r=0}^{n}\binom{n}{r}=2^n$ and $\displaystyle\sum_{r=0}^{n} r\binom{n}{r}=n\,2^{n-1}.$
Step 4: Put them in.
$S=\dfrac{n\,2^{n-1}+2^n}{2^n}.$ Split the fraction: $\dfrac{n\,2^{n-1}}{2^n}+\dfrac{2^n}{2^n}=\dfrac{n}{2}+1.$
Step 5: Use the given value.
We are told $S=16$, so $\dfrac{n}{2}+1=16$, giving $\dfrac{n}{2}=15.$
Step 6: Solve.
$n=30.$ \[ \boxed{30} \]
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