Grade 11 → Algebra → Sequences and Series ↓
Arithmetic Sequence
Introduction to sequence
In mathematics, a sequence is a group of numbers arranged in a specific order. Each number in the sequence is called a term. Sequences can follow patterns, making it easier for us to predict subsequent numbers or describe the sequence with a formula.
What is an arithmetic sequence?
An arithmetic sequence is a type of sequence in which the difference between consecutive terms is constant. This difference is called the "common difference." When you know the common difference and at least one term in the sequence, you can easily find the other terms.
Normal form of an arithmetic sequence
The arithmetic sequence can be described by the formula:
a_n = a_1 + (n - 1) cdot d
Where:
a_n
is the n -th term of the sequencea_1
is the first term of the sequenced
is the common differencen
is the position of the term in the sequence
Common difference
The common difference is the center of arithmetic sequences. It is the value that is continuously added (or subtracted) to get the next term from the previous term.
If an arithmetic sequence has the following terms: a_1
, a_2
, a_3
, ..., then the common difference d
can be calculated as:
d = a_2 - a_1 = a_3 - a_2 = ...
Example
Here, the common difference d
is 3 because:
8 - 5 = 3, 11 - 8 = 3, 14 - 11 = 3, 17 - 14 = 3
Thus, with a common difference of 3, 5 is followed by 8, 11, 14, and so on.
Finding a specific term
To find any term in an arithmetic sequence, we can use the formula mentioned above. Let us see how to find a specific term with an example.
Example
a_1 = 3
and the common difference d = 5
. Let us find the 10th term.
a_{10} = a_1 + (10-1) cdot d = 3 + 9 cdot 5 = 3 + 45 = 48
Therefore, the 10th term is a_{10}
48.
Visual representation of arithmetic sequences
The line given above represents an arithmetic sequence where the difference between consecutive circles is the common difference. Each circle represents a term.
Sum of an arithmetic sequence
In many scenarios, we may need to find the sum of an arithmetic sequence. To achieve this, we use the formula for the sum of the first n terms of an arithmetic sequence, which is:
S_n = (n / 2) cdot (a_1 + a_n)
Alternatively, replace a_n
with the formula for the n -th term:
S_n = (n / 2) cdot [2a_1 + (n - 1) cdot d]
Example
a_1 = 3
and d = 5
.
n = 10
a_1 = 3
First, finda_{10}
:a_{10} = a_1 + 9 cdot 5 = 48
Now findS_{10}
:S_{10} = (10 / 2) cdot (3 + 48) = 5 cdot 51 = 255
Thus, the sum of the first 10 terms, S_{10}
, is 255.
Arithmetic sequences in real life
Arithmetic sequences are not only theoretical constructions, but can also appear in practical situations. Here are some real-life examples:
- Monthly savings where the same amount is saved every month.
- Depositing a fixed sum of money regularly in a bank account.
- A clock that moves forward a few seconds every day, creating a predictable pattern.
- Construction phases where each phase requires the same number of more steps than the previous one.
Conclusion
Arithmetic sequences are an important concept in algebra, providing a basis for understanding more complex sequences and series. With the knowledge of the first term and the common difference, you can create a complete sequence and find any term or sum you want.
By understanding this fundamental concept, you open the doors to explore deeper mathematical ideas and practical applications, making arithmetic sequences an important part of mathematics.