Explore IDNLearn.com to discover insightful answers from experts and enthusiasts alike. Discover prompt and accurate responses from our experts, ensuring you get the information you need quickly.

find an explicit rule for the nth term of a geometric sequence where the second and fifth terms are -12 and 768 respectively

Sagot :

ANSWER:

[tex]a_n=3\cdot(-4)^{n-1}[/tex]

STEP-BY-STEP EXPLANATION:

We have the following formula for nth terms

[tex]a_n=a_1\cdot r^{n-1}^{}[/tex]

we replace for each point and we are left

[tex]\begin{gathered} a_2=-12 \\ -12=a_1\cdot r^{2-1}\rightarrow-12=a_1\cdot r^{}\text{ (1)} \\ a_5=768 \\ 768=a_1\cdot r^{5-1}\rightarrow768=a_1\cdot r^4\text{ (2)} \end{gathered}[/tex]

We solve the system of equations that remains like this:

[tex]\begin{gathered} a_1=\frac{-12}{r}\text{ (3)} \\ a_1=\frac{768}{r^3}\text{ (4)} \\ \text{we equalize (3) and (4)} \\ -\frac{12}{r}=\frac{768}{r^4} \\ r^3=\frac{768}{-12} \\ r=\sqrt[3]{-64} \\ r=-4 \end{gathered}[/tex]

Now, for a1

[tex]\begin{gathered} a_1=\frac{-12}{-4} \\ a_1=3 \end{gathered}[/tex]

Thank you for participating in our discussion. We value every contribution. Keep sharing knowledge and helping others find the answers they need. Let's create a dynamic and informative learning environment together. IDNLearn.com is your source for precise answers. Thank you for visiting, and we look forward to helping you again soon.