Math Problem Statement
find the next three terms and identify the sequence of the sequence, +, -12, +18, -24
Solution
The given sequence is:
Let's break down the pattern:
- The signs alternate between positive and negative.
- The absolute values of the terms increase by 6: .
Next Three Terms:
Following the alternating sign and increasing by 6 in absolute value:
- The next term is ,
- The term after that is ,
- The third next term is .
Thus, the next three terms are: .
Identifying the Sequence:
This sequence alternates between positive and negative terms, and the absolute values of the terms follow an arithmetic progression with a common difference of 6. Specifically, the absolute values are , with each successive term increasing by 6.
This is an alternating arithmetic sequence.
Would you like more details or explanations?
Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:
- How would you find the 10th term of this alternating sequence?
- What would happen if the sign pattern was reversed (starting with negative)?
- Can you generalize a formula for the -th term of this sequence?
- How is this sequence different from a geometric sequence?
- What happens if the difference between terms changes from 6 to another constant?
Tip: When identifying patterns, always check for both arithmetic (constant differences) and geometric (constant ratios) progressions.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Arithmetic Progression
Alternating Sequence
Formulas
nth term of an arithmetic sequence: a_n = a_1 + (n-1)d
Theorems
Arithmetic Sequence Theorem
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 6-8