OEIS A000159: The Ménage Problem

A deep dive into the ménage problem (A000159): counting circular seating arrangements of n couples with alternating sexes where no one sits next to their partner. We trace the data (3 couples → 12 arrangements, 4 → 96, 5 → 3,120) and explain how Tuchard's formula uses inclusion–exclusion to compute the counts. We also explore related menage numbers (A000179), their graph-theoretic interpretation via matchings on cycle and crown graphs, and the connection to permanents of matrices and even knot theory via Tate. Plus pointers to diagrams and the OEIS as a rich, interconnected resource for number theory, combinatorics, and topology.

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