Math Problem Statement

Write an explicit formula for an, the nn,\text{ the }nth term of the sequence 32, 28, 24 ....

Solution

The given sequence is: 32,28,24,32, 28, 24, \dots This sequence is an arithmetic sequence because the difference between consecutive terms is constant. The common difference dd is: d=2832=4d = 28 - 32 = -4 The first term a1a_1 is 32.

The explicit formula for the nn-th term of an arithmetic sequence is given by: an=a1+(n1)da_n = a_1 + (n - 1) \cdot d Substituting the values of a1=32a_1 = 32 and d=4d = -4, we get: an=32+(n1)(4)a_n = 32 + (n - 1) \cdot (-4) Simplifying: an=324(n1)a_n = 32 - 4(n - 1) an=324n+4a_n = 32 - 4n + 4 an=364na_n = 36 - 4n

Thus, the explicit formula for the nn-th term of the sequence is: an=364na_n = 36 - 4n

Would you like more details on how arithmetic sequences work or have any other questions?

Here are 5 related questions you might find useful:

  1. How do you find the sum of an arithmetic sequence?
  2. What is the formula for the sum of the first nn terms of an arithmetic sequence?
  3. How can you determine if a sequence is arithmetic?
  4. Can arithmetic sequences have positive and negative common differences?
  5. How does the formula for geometric sequences differ from arithmetic ones?

Tip: In arithmetic sequences, the common difference between terms is always constant!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Arithmetic Sequences
Algebra

Formulas

a_n = a_1 + (n - 1) * d
a_n = 36 - 4n

Theorems

Arithmetic Sequence Formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9