Math Problem Statement

Is the sequence arithmetic or geometric

Solution

The image provided shows a sequence of numbers, and the question asks whether the sequence is arithmetic or geometric. The sequence in the image is:

2,4,8,16,32,642, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64

To determine whether the sequence is arithmetic or geometric:

  1. Arithmetic Sequence: A sequence is arithmetic if the difference between consecutive terms is constant. In other words, an+1an=da_{n+1} - a_n = d where dd is a constant.

  2. Geometric Sequence: A sequence is geometric if the ratio between consecutive terms is constant. In other words, an+1an=r\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_n} = r where rr is a constant.

Checking the Sequence:

  • The difference between consecutive terms:

    • 42=24 - 2 = 2
    • 84=48 - 4 = 4
    • 168=816 - 8 = 8
    • 3216=1632 - 16 = 16
    • 6432=3264 - 32 = 32

    Since the differences are not constant, the sequence is not arithmetic.

  • The ratio between consecutive terms:

    • 42=2\frac{4}{2} = 2
    • 84=2\frac{8}{4} = 2
    • 168=2\frac{16}{8} = 2
    • 3216=2\frac{32}{16} = 2
    • 6432=2\frac{64}{32} = 2

    Since the ratio is constant, the sequence is geometric with a common ratio r=2r = 2.

Conclusion: The sequence is geometric.

Do you want more details or have any other questions?


Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How can you determine the nth term of a geometric sequence?
  2. What is the formula for the sum of the first n terms of a geometric series?
  3. Can a sequence be both arithmetic and geometric? Why or why not?
  4. What is the difference between finite and infinite geometric sequences?
  5. How does the common ratio affect the behavior of a geometric sequence?

Tip: Always check the difference and ratio between terms when determining if a sequence is arithmetic or geometric.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Arithmetic Sequence
Geometric Sequence

Formulas

Arithmetic sequence formula: \(a_n = a_1 + (n-1) \cdot d\)
Geometric sequence formula: \(a_n = a_1 \cdot r^{n-1}\)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

High School