Math Problem Statement

If an adjacaent sum sequence is geometric, must the original sequence also be geometric?

Solution

If the adjacent sum sequence of a given sequence is geometric, it does not necessarily imply that the original sequence is geometric.

Here's why:

  1. Definitions:

    • Original sequence: a1,a2,a3,a_1, a_2, a_3, \dots
    • Adjacent sum sequence: Formed by adding consecutive terms of the original sequence. Let the adjacent sum sequence be b1,b2,b3,b_1, b_2, b_3, \dots, where: bn=an+an+1b_n = a_n + a_{n+1} The adjacent sum sequence is geometric if: bn+1bn=r(constant ratio)\frac{b_{n+1}}{b_n} = r \quad \text{(constant ratio)}
  2. Example of non-geometric original sequence: Consider the original sequence an=2na_n = 2^n, which is exponential (not geometric). The adjacent sum sequence becomes: bn=2n+2n+1=2n(1+2)=32nb_n = 2^n + 2^{n+1} = 2^n(1 + 2) = 3 \cdot 2^n This is a geometric sequence with a constant ratio of 2. However, the original sequence an=2na_n = 2^n is exponential, not geometric.

Thus, an adjacent sum sequence being geometric does not imply the original sequence must be geometric.

Would you like more details on any specific part of this explanation?


Here are five related questions:

  1. How do you prove whether a sequence is geometric?
  2. Can an original sequence be arithmetic if its adjacent sum sequence is geometric?
  3. How would the adjacent difference sequence behave if the original sequence is geometric?
  4. What happens if the adjacent product sequence is geometric? Does the same logic hold?
  5. How do sequences that are both arithmetic and geometric behave?

Tip: Always consider counterexamples when determining whether a condition is necessary or sufficient in mathematics!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences and Series
Geometric Sequences
Exponential Functions

Formulas

b_n = a_n + a_{n+1} (Adjacent sum sequence)
\frac{b_{n+1}}{b_n} = r (Geometric ratio condition)

Theorems

Geometric Sequence Definition
Counterexample Method in Mathematical Logic

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12