Math Problem Statement

Which formula can be used to describe the sequence: -2/3, -4, -24, -144,...?

Solution

The given sequence is:

23,4,24,144,-\frac{2}{3}, -4, -24, -144, \dots

We need to identify the formula that describes this sequence.

Step 1: Identify the pattern in the sequence

Let's observe the ratio between consecutive terms:

  • The second term is 4-4, and the first term is 23-\frac{2}{3}. 423=6\frac{-4}{-\frac{2}{3}} = 6
  • The third term is 24-24, and the second term is 4-4. 244=6\frac{-24}{-4} = 6
  • The fourth term is 144-144, and the third term is 24-24. 14424=6\frac{-144}{-24} = 6

The common ratio is 66, so this is a geometric sequence with a common ratio r=6r = 6.

Step 2: General form of a geometric sequence

The general form of a geometric sequence is: f(x)=arx1f(x) = a \cdot r^{x-1} Where:

  • aa is the first term,
  • rr is the common ratio, and
  • xx is the term number.

Here:

  • a=23a = -\frac{2}{3},
  • r=6r = 6.

Thus, the formula for the sequence is: f(x)=236x1f(x) = -\frac{2}{3} \cdot 6^{x-1}

Step 3: Match with the given options

The correct option that matches the formula is:

f(x)=23(6)x1f(x) = -\frac{2}{3} \cdot (6)^{x-1}

This corresponds to the third option.


Would you like more details or have any further questions?

Related Questions:

  1. What is the difference between arithmetic and geometric sequences?
  2. How do you find the common ratio in a geometric sequence?
  3. Can geometric sequences have negative common ratios?
  4. What happens to a geometric sequence if the common ratio is a fraction?
  5. How would you find the sum of the first nn terms in a geometric sequence?

Tip: In geometric sequences, multiplying by the common ratio repeatedly generates the next terms.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometric Sequences
Algebra

Formulas

f(x) = a * r^(x-1)

Theorems

Geometric Sequence Formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12