Math Problem Statement

Find an explicit formula for the geometric sequence 3, 15, 75, 375,...

Solution

It looks like you're working on finding an explicit formula for a geometric sequence from Khan Academy.

The sequence given is: 3,15,75,375,3, 15, 75, 375, \dots

Steps to find the explicit formula for this geometric sequence:

  1. Identify the first term a(1)a(1): The first term a(1)a(1) is 3.

  2. Find the common ratio rr: The common ratio rr is the factor by which you multiply each term to get the next term.

    r=153=5r = \frac{15}{3} = 5 Thus, the common ratio is 5.

  3. Write the explicit formula: The general formula for the nn-th term of a geometric sequence is:

    a(n)=a(1)r(n1)a(n) = a(1) \cdot r^{(n-1)} Substituting a(1)=3a(1) = 3 and r=5r = 5, the explicit formula becomes:

    a(n)=35(n1)a(n) = 3 \cdot 5^{(n-1)}

Final answer:

a(n)=35(n1)a(n) = 3 \cdot 5^{(n-1)}

Would you like further details or clarification on any step?

Related Questions:

  1. How would the explicit formula change if the common ratio were negative?
  2. What is the 6th term of the geometric sequence?
  3. How do you derive the recursive formula for this sequence?
  4. How can we determine if a sequence is geometric from its terms?
  5. Can you explain how geometric sequences are applied in real-life scenarios?

Tip: Always double-check your common ratio by dividing consecutive terms to avoid calculation errors.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometric Sequences
Explicit Formulas
Common Ratio

Formulas

a(n) = a(1) * r^(n-1)

Theorems

Geometric Sequence Formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10