Math Problem Statement

What are the next two terms in the arithmetic sequence: -9, -2, 5?

Solution

To solve this arithmetic sequence problem, let's analyze the given terms:

The sequence starts as:
9,2,5-9, -2, 5

Step 1: Find the common difference

The common difference dd in an arithmetic sequence is the difference between any two consecutive terms: d=a2a1d = a_2 - a_1 d=2(9)=2+9=7d = -2 - (-9) = -2 + 9 = 7

Verify the difference with the next term: d=a3a2=5(2)=5+2=7d = a_3 - a_2 = 5 - (-2) = 5 + 2 = 7 Thus, the common difference d=7d = 7.

Step 2: Find the next terms

Using the formula for the nn-th term in an arithmetic sequence: an=a1+(n1)da_n = a_1 + (n-1)d We calculate the next two terms:

  1. Fourth term (a4a_4): a4=5+7=12a_4 = 5 + 7 = 12
  2. Fifth term (a5a_5): a5=12+7=19a_5 = 12 + 7 = 19

Final Answer:

The next two terms are: 12,1912, 19

Would you like further details or explanations?


Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. How do you determine whether a sequence is arithmetic or not?
  2. What is the general formula for the nn-th term of an arithmetic sequence?
  3. How can we calculate the sum of the first nn terms of an arithmetic sequence?
  4. How would this problem differ if the sequence were geometric?
  5. How can arithmetic sequences be applied to real-life problems?

Tip: Always verify the common difference by checking multiple consecutive terms to avoid mistakes.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Arithmetic Sequences
Common Difference
Formula for the nth Term of an Arithmetic Sequence

Formulas

a_n = a_1 + (n-1)d

Theorems

Arithmetic Sequence Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8