Introducing: Second-order permutation

Abstract

In this study we answer questions that have to do with finding out the total number of ways of arranging a finite set of symbols or objects directly under a single line constraint set of finite symbols such that common symbols between the two sets do not repeat on the vertical positions. We go further to study the outcomes when both sets consist of the same symbols and when they consist of different symbols. We identify this form of permutation as 'second-order permutation' and show that it has a corresponding unique factorial which plays a prominent role in most of the results obtained. This has been discovered by examining many practical problems which give rise to the emergence of second-order permutation. Upon examination of these problems, it becomes clear that a directly higher order of permutation exist. Hence this study aims at equipping mathematics scholars, educators and researchers with the necessary background knowledge and framework for incorporating second-order permutation into the field of combinatorial mathematics.