Math Problem Statement

What are the first five terms in the recursive sequence defined by the following? a_1 = 1 a_2 = 1 a_n = a_{n-2} + a_{n-1}

Solution

To solve this problem, we need to determine the first five terms of the sequence defined by the recursive rule:

  1. a1=1a_1 = 1
  2. a2=1a_2 = 1
  3. an=an2+an1a_n = a_{n-2} + a_{n-1}, for n3n \geq 3

Let's calculate the first five terms step by step:

  1. a1=1a_1 = 1
  2. a2=1a_2 = 1
  3. a3=a1+a2=1+1=2a_3 = a_1 + a_2 = 1 + 1 = 2
  4. a4=a2+a3=1+2=3a_4 = a_2 + a_3 = 1 + 2 = 3
  5. a5=a3+a4=2+3=5a_5 = a_3 + a_4 = 2 + 3 = 5

The first five terms of the sequence are: 1,1,2,3,51, 1, 2, 3, 5.

The correct answer is: {1,1,2,3,5}\{1, 1, 2, 3, 5\}.


Do you want a detailed explanation about recursive sequences? Here are some questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How does a recursive formula differ from an explicit formula in sequences?
  2. Why is it important to define initial conditions like a1a_1 and a2a_2 in a recursive sequence?
  3. How can you verify if a sequence follows a given recursive rule?
  4. What are some real-life applications of the Fibonacci sequence (which this example resembles)?
  5. How can recursive sequences be represented graphically?

Tip: Always verify each step when calculating terms in recursive sequences to avoid propagation of errors!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Recursive Sequences
Arithmetic Sequences
Fibonacci Sequence

Formulas

a_1 = 1
a_2 = 1
a_n = a_{n-2} + a_{n-1} for n ≥ 3

Theorems

Definition of Recursive Sequences

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11