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T. Amdeberhan
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factorization of polynomials wrt the major index stat

Let $\mathfrak{S}_n$ be the permutation group on $\{1,\dots,n\}$. Given $\pi=\pi_1\pi_2\dots\pi_n\in\mathfrak{S}_n$, its major index statistic is denoted maj$(\pi)$. Define the polynomials $$Q_{n,k}(x):=\sum_{\pi\in\mathfrak{S}_n}x^{\text{maj}(\pi)+\pi_n+\pi_{n-1}+\cdots+\pi_{n-k}}.$$

REMARK. maj can be replaced by the inversion number inv without affecting $Q$.

CLAIM. $\,\,$ Experiment supports that, for each $n$ and $k$, we have $$Q_{n,k}(x) =\binom{n}{k+1} x^{(k+1)n-\binom{k+1}2}\prod_{i=0}^k\left(1+x+\cdots+x^i\right)\prod_{j=0}^{n-k-2}\left(1+x+\cdots+x^j\right).$$ Any proof?

T. Amdeberhan
  • 43.2k
  • 5
  • 57
  • 217