Math Problem Statement

A sequence can be generated using a_{n+1} = -0.25 + a_n, where a_1 = 5 and n is a whole number greater than 1. What are the first 5 terms in the sequence?

Solution

The given recursive formula for the sequence is:

an+1=0.25+ana_{n+1} = -0.25 + a_n with a1=5a_1 = 5 and nn being a whole number greater than 1. We need to find the first 5 terms of the sequence.

Step-by-step calculation:

  1. First term: a1=5a_1 = 5

  2. Second term: a2=a1+(0.25)=50.25=4.75a_2 = a_1 + (-0.25) = 5 - 0.25 = 4.75

  3. Third term: a3=a2+(0.25)=4.750.25=4.5a_3 = a_2 + (-0.25) = 4.75 - 0.25 = 4.5

  4. Fourth term: a4=a3+(0.25)=4.50.25=4.25a_4 = a_3 + (-0.25) = 4.5 - 0.25 = 4.25

  5. Fifth term: a5=a4+(0.25)=4.250.25=4a_5 = a_4 + (-0.25) = 4.25 - 0.25 = 4

The first 5 terms of the sequence are:

5,4.75,4.5,4.25,45, 4.75, 4.5, 4.25, 4

Would you like further details on any part of this process or have any additional questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on the topic:

  1. How would you find the 10th term of this sequence?
  2. What type of sequence does this formula represent (arithmetic, geometric, etc.)?
  3. What is the general formula for the nn-th term of this sequence?
  4. How does the recursive nature of sequences differ from explicit formulas?
  5. What happens to the sequence as nn approaches infinity?

Tip: In recursive sequences, each term depends on the previous one. Knowing the base term is crucial for calculating the following terms.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Recursion
Arithmetic sequences

Formulas

a_{n+1} = a_n - 0.25

Theorems

Recursive sequence formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10