Math Problem Statement

Examine the sequence of integers below.

26 , 17 , 8 , −1 , −10 , −19

Which algebraic expression represents the n th integer in this sequence? A.26n−9

B.35n−9

C.−9n+35

D.−7n+19

Solution

To determine the algebraic expression that represents the nn-th integer in the sequence, we need to find a pattern or rule for how the terms change. Let's break it down step by step:

Step 1: Identify the common difference

The given sequence is:

26,17,8,1,10,1926, 17, 8, -1, -10, -19

Find the difference between consecutive terms:

1726=917 - 26 = -9 817=98 - 17 = -9 18=9-1 - 8 = -9 10(1)=9-10 - (-1) = -9

The difference is constant (9-9), so this sequence is arithmetic with a common difference of 9-9.

Step 2: General formula for an arithmetic sequence

The general formula for an arithmetic sequence is:

an=a1+(n1)da_n = a_1 + (n-1) \cdot d

Where:

  • a1a_1 is the first term of the sequence,
  • dd is the common difference,
  • nn is the position of the term.

Here:

  • a1=26a_1 = 26,
  • d=9d = -9.

Substitute these values into the formula:

an=26+(n1)(9)a_n = 26 + (n-1)(-9)

Step 3: Simplify the expression

Expand (n1)(9)(n-1)(-9):

an=269n+9a_n = 26 - 9n + 9

Combine like terms:

an=9n+35a_n = -9n + 35

Step 4: Match with the given options

The expression an=9n+35a_n = -9n + 35 matches option C.

Final Answer:

C. 9n+35-9n + 35


Would you like more details or have any questions? Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How do we identify if a sequence is arithmetic?
  2. Can this process be used for sequences with non-constant differences?
  3. What is the significance of the first term (a1a_1) in the formula?
  4. How would the formula change if the common difference were positive?
  5. Can you derive the formula for a geometric sequence?

Tip: Always check the first few terms with your derived formula to ensure accuracy.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Arithmetic Sequences
Algebra

Formulas

General formula for an arithmetic sequence: a_n = a_1 + (n-1) * d

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9