Math Problem Statement

Let b subscript n equals n space left parenthesis negative 1 right parenthesis to the power of n comma space n greater or equal than 1. Find stack product space b subscript i with i equals 1 below and 4 on top.

Solution

We are given the sequence bn=n(1)nb_n = n \cdot (-1)^n where n1n \geq 1, and we need to find the product of bib_i as ii ranges from 1 to 4. In other words, we are looking for the following product:

i=14bi=b1b2b3b4\prod_{i=1}^{4} b_i = b_1 \cdot b_2 \cdot b_3 \cdot b_4

Let's evaluate each term of the product:

  1. b1=1(1)1=1b_1 = 1 \cdot (-1)^1 = -1
  2. b2=2(1)2=2b_2 = 2 \cdot (-1)^2 = 2
  3. b3=3(1)3=3b_3 = 3 \cdot (-1)^3 = -3
  4. b4=4(1)4=4b_4 = 4 \cdot (-1)^4 = 4

Now, multiply these terms together:

i=14bi=(1)2(3)4\prod_{i=1}^{4} b_i = (-1) \cdot 2 \cdot (-3) \cdot 4

First, multiply the numbers step by step:

(1)2=2(-1) \cdot 2 = -2

2(3)=6-2 \cdot (-3) = 6

64=246 \cdot 4 = 24

Thus, the product is:

i=14bi=24\prod_{i=1}^{4} b_i = 24

Let me know if you need further clarification! Here's a list of related questions to help expand your understanding:

  1. What happens to the product if the sequence includes more terms?
  2. How does the alternating sign (1)n(-1)^n affect the final product?
  3. How can this product be generalized for any value of nn?
  4. How would the product change if we considered the sum instead of the product?
  5. What is the value of the product for other values of nn, like 5 or 6?

Tip: When working with sequences involving powers of -1, remember that the signs alternate depending on whether the exponent is odd or even.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Products of Sequences
Power Series
Sign Alternation

Formulas

b_n = n * (-1)^n
Product of sequence: \prod_{i=1}^{4} b_i = b_1 * b_2 * b_3 * b_4

Theorems

Product of a sequence of terms

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12