Math Problem Statement

find the next three terms and identify the sequence of the sequence, +, -12, +18, -24

Solution

The given sequence is: +12,12,+18,24,+12, -12, +18, -24, \dots

Let's break down the pattern:

  1. The signs alternate between positive and negative.
  2. The absolute values of the terms increase by 6: 12,18,24,12, 18, 24, \dots.

Next Three Terms:

Following the alternating sign and increasing by 6 in absolute value:

  • The next term is +30+30,
  • The term after that is 36-36,
  • The third next term is +42+42.

Thus, the next three terms are: +30,36,+42+30, -36, +42.

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 12,18,24,12, 18, 24, \dots, 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:

  1. How would you find the 10th term of this alternating sequence?
  2. What would happen if the sign pattern was reversed (starting with negative)?
  3. Can you generalize a formula for the nn-th term of this sequence?
  4. How is this sequence different from a geometric sequence?
  5. 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