Math Problem Statement

Which sequence is geometric? -2,4,-6,-10 1,1,2,3,5,8. 12,7,2,-3,-8. -27,-9,-3,-1,-1/3

Solution

A geometric sequence is a sequence of numbers where each term after the first is found by multiplying the previous term by a constant called the common ratio. Let's check each sequence:

  1. Sequence: -2, 4, -6, -10
    To find the common ratio, divide each term by the previous term:

    • 42=2\frac{4}{-2} = -2
    • 64=32\frac{-6}{4} = -\frac{3}{2}
    • 106=53\frac{-10}{-6} = \frac{5}{3}

    The ratio between terms is not constant, so this is not a geometric sequence.

  2. Sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8

    • 11=1\frac{1}{1} = 1
    • 21=2\frac{2}{1} = 2
    • 322\frac{3}{2} \neq 2

    Since the ratio is not constant, this is not a geometric sequence.

  3. Sequence: 12, 7, 2, -3, -8

    • 71227\frac{7}{12} \neq \frac{2}{7}

    This sequence also does not have a constant ratio, so it is not geometric.

  4. Sequence: -27, -9, -3, -1, -1/3

    • 927=13\frac{-9}{-27} = \frac{1}{3}
    • 39=13\frac{-3}{-9} = \frac{1}{3}
    • 13=13\frac{-1}{-3} = \frac{1}{3}
    • 131=13\frac{-\frac{1}{3}}{-1} = \frac{1}{3}

    The ratio is constant (13\frac{1}{3}) throughout, so this is a geometric sequence.

Conclusion:

The geometric sequence is -27, -9, -3, -1, -1/3.


Would you like further details on geometric sequences or any other clarification?

Related questions:

  1. What is the formula for the nth term of a geometric sequence?
  2. How do you find the sum of a finite geometric series?
  3. What is the difference between arithmetic and geometric sequences?
  4. Can a geometric sequence have a negative common ratio?
  5. How do you calculate the sum of an infinite geometric series?

Tip: In a geometric sequence, dividing any term by the previous term always gives the same result—the common ratio!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences and Series
Geometric Sequences
Common Ratio

Formulas

Common ratio formula: r = a(n+1) / a(n)

Theorems

Geometric sequence definition: A sequence where each term is found by multiplying the previous one by a constant (common ratio).

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10