Math Problem Statement

Find the 10th term of the geometric sequence 10, -20, 40, ...

Solution

The given sequence is:
10,20,40,10, -20, 40, \dots

This is a geometric sequence, where each term is obtained by multiplying the previous term by a common ratio rr.

Step 1: Find the Common Ratio rr

The common ratio is found using:
r=second termfirst term=2010=2r = \frac{\text{second term}}{\text{first term}} = \frac{-20}{10} = -2 Thus, r=2r = -2.

Step 2: Use the Geometric Sequence Formula

The general formula for the nnth term of a geometric sequence is:
an=a1r(n1)a_n = a_1 \cdot r^{(n-1)} where:

  • a1=10a_1 = 10 (first term),
  • r=2r = -2,
  • n=10n = 10.

Step 3: Compute the 10th Term

a10=10(2)(101)a_{10} = 10 \cdot (-2)^{(10-1)} =10(2)9= 10 \cdot (-2)^9 =10(512)= 10 \cdot (-512) =5120= -5120

Final Answer:

The 10th term of the sequence is 5120-5120.


Would you like a step-by-step breakdown or further explanation?

Here are five related questions you might find interesting:

  1. How do you determine whether a sequence is geometric or arithmetic?
  2. What is the sum of the first 10 terms of this geometric sequence?
  3. How does changing the common ratio affect the sequence's growth?
  4. What happens if the common ratio is a fraction instead of an integer?
  5. How do you find the general formula for any geometric sequence?

Tip: In a geometric sequence, if the common ratio is negative, the terms alternate in sign!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometric Sequences
Exponents

Formulas

a_n = a_1 * r^(n-1)

Theorems

Properties of Geometric Sequences

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12