Math Problem Statement

For each sequence, find a formula for the general term, a_n. Sequences start with n = 1. For example, answer n^2 if given the sequence: 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, 36, ...

Solution

Let's analyze both sequences to determine their general terms ana_n.


1st sequence: 316,425,536,649,\frac{3}{16}, \frac{4}{25}, \frac{5}{36}, \frac{6}{49}, \ldots

Observe that:

  • The numerators are: 3,4,5,6,3, 4, 5, 6, \ldots, which is n+2n + 2 for n=1,2,3,n = 1, 2, 3, \ldots.
  • The denominators are: 16,25,36,49,16, 25, 36, 49, \ldots, which correspond to 42,52,62,72,4^2, 5^2, 6^2, 7^2, \ldots or (n+3)2(n + 3)^2.

Thus, the general term for this sequence is: an=n+2(n+3)2a_n = \frac{n + 2}{(n + 3)^2}


2nd sequence: 12,14,16,18,\frac{1}{2}, \frac{1}{4}, \frac{1}{6}, \frac{1}{8}, \ldots

Here:

  • The numerators are all 11.
  • The denominators are 2,4,6,8,2, 4, 6, 8, \ldots, which correspond to 2n2n for n=1,2,3,n = 1, 2, 3, \ldots.

Thus, the general term for this sequence is: an=12na_n = \frac{1}{2n}


If anything is unclear, or if you have questions, feel free to ask!


Related Questions:

  1. How can you determine if a sequence is arithmetic or geometric?
  2. What are the differences between converging and diverging sequences?
  3. Can the general term ana_n involve factorials?
  4. How do we find the sum of an infinite sequence if it converges?
  5. What is the difference between sequences and series?

Tip: Identifying patterns in numerators and denominators separately can simplify finding the general formula for complex sequences.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
General Term
Pattern Recognition

Formulas

General term formula a_n

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12