Math Problem Statement

Find the nth term of the sequence 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, ...

Solution

To determine the nnth term of the sequence 1,8,15,22,29,1, 8, 15, 22, 29, \ldots, we need to analyze the pattern in the sequence.

Step 1: Identify the Common Difference

Let's look at the differences between consecutive terms:

  • 81=78 - 1 = 7
  • 158=715 - 8 = 7
  • 2215=722 - 15 = 7
  • 2922=729 - 22 = 7

The sequence has a common difference of 7, meaning it is an arithmetic sequence.

Step 2: Use the Formula for the nnth Term of an Arithmetic Sequence

The general formula for the nnth term of an arithmetic sequence is: an=a1+(n1)da_n = a_1 + (n - 1) \cdot d where:

  • a1a_1 is the first term of the sequence,
  • dd is the common difference,
  • nn is the term number.

In this case:

  • a1=1a_1 = 1,
  • d=7d = 7.

Step 3: Substitute the Values

Substituting these values into the formula gives: an=1+(n1)7a_n = 1 + (n - 1) \cdot 7 an=1+7n7a_n = 1 + 7n - 7 an=7n6a_n = 7n - 6

Conclusion

The nnth term of the sequence is: an=7n6a_n = 7n - 6

Would you like further explanation or have any other questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you determine the common difference in an arithmetic sequence?
  2. What is the formula for the sum of the first nn terms in an arithmetic sequence?
  3. How does the formula for the nnth term change if the common difference is negative?
  4. Can you determine the nnth term if the sequence is not arithmetic?
  5. What happens to the nnth term formula if the first term is zero?

Tip: Always check if a sequence is arithmetic or geometric by analyzing the differences between terms.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Arithmetic Sequences

Formulas

nth term of an arithmetic sequence: a_n = a_1 + (n - 1) * d

Theorems

Arithmetic Sequence Formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8