Math Problem Statement

Write the first four terms of the sequence defined by the recursive formula a1=2, an=an−1+n

Solution

The sequence is defined recursively as follows:

  • a1=2a_1 = 2
  • an=an1+na_n = a_{n-1} + n for n>1n > 1.

Steps to find the first four terms:

  1. First term: a1=2a_1 = 2
  2. Second term: a2=a1+2=2+2=4a_2 = a_1 + 2 = 2 + 2 = 4
  3. Third term: a3=a2+3=4+3=7a_3 = a_2 + 3 = 4 + 3 = 7
  4. Fourth term: a4=a3+4=7+4=11a_4 = a_3 + 4 = 7 + 4 = 11

Result:

The first four terms of the sequence are: 2,4,7,112, 4, 7, 11

Would you like to see a detailed explanation or generalization of this sequence?


Related Questions:

  1. How can this sequence be represented explicitly?
  2. What is the sum of the first nn terms of this sequence?
  3. Can we prove that this sequence is arithmetic or not?
  4. What are the next four terms of the sequence?
  5. How does the growth of this sequence compare to other common sequences, like n2n^2 or 2n2^n?

Tip:

Recursive sequences can often be transformed into explicit formulas by summing their differences systematically.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Recursive Formulas

Formulas

a1 = 2
an = an-1 + n

Theorems

Arithmetic progression concepts (partial relevance)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8