Math Problem Statement

Determine the correct formula for the following geometric sequence: 18, 6, 2, 2/3, ...

Solution

The sequence provided is 18,6,2,23,18, 6, 2, \frac{2}{3}, \dots. This is a geometric sequence where each term is obtained by multiplying the previous term by a common ratio.

Step 1: Identify the common ratio.

To find the common ratio rr, divide the second term by the first term: r=618=13r = \frac{6}{18} = \frac{1}{3} Thus, the common ratio is 13\frac{1}{3}.

Step 2: Use the geometric sequence formula.

The general formula for the nn-th term of a geometric sequence is: an=a1rn1a_n = a_1 \cdot r^{n-1} where:

  • a1a_1 is the first term,
  • rr is the common ratio,
  • nn is the term number.

For this sequence:

  • a1=18a_1 = 18,
  • r=13r = \frac{1}{3}.

Thus, the formula becomes: an=18(13)n1a_n = 18 \cdot \left( \frac{1}{3} \right)^{n-1}

Step 3: Compare with the provided options.

The correct answer matches the formula an=18(13)n1a_n = 18 \cdot \left( \frac{1}{3} \right)^{n-1}, which is the first option.

Final Answer:

The correct formula is: an=18(13)n1\boxed{a_n = 18 \left( \frac{1}{3} \right)^{n-1}}

Do you need further details or clarifications? Here are some related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How is the common ratio found in a geometric sequence?
  2. How can you identify if a sequence is geometric?
  3. What happens if the common ratio is negative in a geometric sequence?
  4. Can a geometric sequence have a non-integer common ratio?
  5. How does the value of the first term affect the geometric sequence?

Tip: For geometric sequences, knowing the common ratio and the first term allows you to predict any term in the sequence!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometric Sequence
Common Ratio
Exponential Functions

Formulas

a_n = a_1 * r^(n-1)

Theorems

Geometric Sequence Formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12