Math Problem Statement

Determine if the sequence below is arithmetic or geometric and determine the common difference / ratio in simplest form. 2, comma, 10, comma, 18, comma, point, point, . 2,10,18,...

Solution

Let's analyze the sequence: 2, 10, 18, ...

Step 1: Check if it's Arithmetic

For an arithmetic sequence, the difference between consecutive terms should be constant.

  • Difference between the second term and the first term: 102=810 - 2 = 8

  • Difference between the third term and the second term: 1810=818 - 10 = 8

Since the difference between consecutive terms is constant (8), this is an arithmetic sequence.

Step 2: Common Difference

The common difference dd is: d=8d = 8

Thus, the sequence is arithmetic with a common difference of 88.

Would you like more details or have any other questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How can you express the nn-th term of an arithmetic sequence?
  2. How would the sequence change if the common difference were negative?
  3. What is the sum of the first nn terms of an arithmetic sequence?
  4. Can an arithmetic sequence ever become geometric? Why or why not?
  5. How would you graph the terms of an arithmetic sequence?

Tip: In an arithmetic sequence, the nn-th term can be found using the formula an=a1+(n1)da_n = a_1 + (n - 1)d, where a1a_1 is the first term, and dd is the common difference.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Arithmetic Sequences
Sequence Patterns

Formulas

Common Difference Formula: d = a_n - a_(n-1)
n-th term of an Arithmetic Sequence: a_n = a_1 + (n-1)d

Theorems

Arithmetic Sequence Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8