Math Problem Statement

Write a recursive formula for the sequence:

     {12,36,108,324,972,...}

 a_1= , 

Solution

To find a recursive formula for the sequence {12,36,108,324,972,}\{12, 36, 108, 324, 972, \dots\}, we first need to identify the pattern in the sequence.

  1. First, let's look at the ratio between consecutive terms:
    • 3612=3\frac{36}{12} = 3
    • 10836=3\frac{108}{36} = 3
    • 324108=3\frac{324}{108} = 3
    • 972324=3\frac{972}{324} = 3

So, each term is multiplied by 3 to get the next term. This suggests that the sequence follows a geometric progression.

Recursive Formula:

Given that the sequence follows a geometric progression with a common ratio of 3, the recursive formula for the sequence is:

a1=12a_1 = 12 an=3an1,forn2a_n = 3 \cdot a_{n-1}, \quad \text{for} \quad n \geq 2

Thus, the sequence starts with a1=12a_1 = 12, and each subsequent term is obtained by multiplying the previous term by 3.


Would you like a detailed explanation of how to derive the recursive formula, or do you have any other questions? Here are some related questions:

  1. What is the explicit (closed-form) formula for this sequence?
  2. How would you find the nth term of a geometric sequence?
  3. How can you solve for the nth term if you're given the recursive formula?
  4. How does the common ratio in a geometric sequence affect the terms?
  5. How do you derive a recursive formula for an arithmetic sequence?

Tip: When working with geometric sequences, always look for the common ratio between consecutive terms to identify the pattern!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Geometric Sequences

Formulas

Recursive formula for a geometric sequence: a_n = r * a_{n-1}
Common ratio calculation: r = a_n / a_{n-1}

Theorems

Geometric Sequence Definition

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10