Math Problem Statement

Find the fifteenth term of the arithmetic sequence whose seventh term is 39​, and whose twenty seventh term is 139.

Solution

To find the fifteenth term of the arithmetic sequence, we need to determine the first term (aa) and the common difference (dd).

Step 1: General formula for an arithmetic sequence

The nn-th term of an arithmetic sequence is given by: an=a+(n1)da_n = a + (n-1)d Where:

  • aa is the first term,
  • dd is the common difference,
  • nn is the term number.

Step 2: Write equations for the given terms

We know:

  • The seventh term (a7a_7) is 39: a + 6d = 39 \tag{1}
  • The twenty-seventh term (a27a_{27}) is 139: a + 26d = 139 \tag{2}

Step 3: Solve for aa and dd

Subtract equation (1) from equation (2) to eliminate aa: (a+26d)(a+6d)=13939(a + 26d) - (a + 6d) = 139 - 39 20d=10020d = 100 d=5d = 5

Substitute d=5d = 5 into equation (1) to solve for aa: a+6(5)=39a + 6(5) = 39 a+30=39a + 30 = 39 a=9a = 9

Step 4: Find the fifteenth term

The fifteenth term (a15a_{15}) is: a15=a+14da_{15} = a + 14d Substitute a=9a = 9 and d=5d = 5: a15=9+14(5)a_{15} = 9 + 14(5) a15=9+70=79a_{15} = 9 + 70 = 79

Final Answer:

The fifteenth term of the sequence is: 79\boxed{79}

Would you like a detailed explanation of the steps or additional examples?


Related Questions:

  1. What is the sum of the first 15 terms of this arithmetic sequence?
  2. What is the 50th term of this sequence?
  3. How can we verify if a given number is part of this sequence?
  4. How do arithmetic sequences relate to linear functions?
  5. Can you derive the formula for the nn-th term of an arithmetic sequence?

Tip:

When solving arithmetic sequence problems, always write out the general term formula clearly before substituting values—it avoids mistakes.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Arithmetic Sequences

Formulas

General term of an arithmetic sequence: an = a + (n-1)d

Theorems

Arithmetic sequence formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10