Math Problem Statement

Determine if the sequence below is arithmetic or geometric and determine the common difference / ratio in simplest form.

4, comma, 24, comma, 144, comma, point, point, .

4,24,144,

Solution

The given sequence is:

4,24,144,4, 24, 144, \dots

Step 1: Check for an arithmetic sequence

An arithmetic sequence has a common difference between consecutive terms. Let's check:

  • The difference between the second and first term: 244=2024 - 4 = 20
  • The difference between the third and second term: 14424=120144 - 24 = 120

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

Step 2: Check for a geometric sequence

A geometric sequence has a common ratio between consecutive terms. Let's check:

  • The ratio between the second and first term: 244=6\frac{24}{4} = 6
  • The ratio between the third and second term: 14424=6\frac{144}{24} = 6

Since the ratios are the same, the sequence is geometric with a common ratio of r=6r = 6.

Conclusion:

The sequence is geometric with a common ratio of r=6r = 6.

Would you like further details or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions to explore:

  1. What is the next term in the sequence?
  2. How would the sum of the first 5 terms of this geometric sequence be calculated?
  3. What are the key differences between arithmetic and geometric sequences?
  4. Can a sequence be both arithmetic and geometric?
  5. How does the geometric mean relate to geometric sequences?

Tip: In a geometric sequence, each term is found by multiplying the previous term by the common ratio.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Arithmetic Sequences
Geometric Sequences

Formulas

Common difference for arithmetic sequences: d = a(n) - a(n-1)
Common ratio for geometric sequences: r = a(n) / a(n-1)

Theorems

Definition of arithmetic sequence
Definition of geometric sequence

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9