A problem on arithmetic progressions.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a problem related to arithmetic progressions, specifically finding the common difference, a term in the sequence (denoted as Z), and the first term of the sequence. The conversation includes mathematical reasoning and exploration of different methods to arrive at the solution.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the need to find the common difference using the equation 22 + 4d = 42, where d represents the common difference.
  • Another participant calculates d as 5 and proposes using this value to find Z and the first term of the sequence.
  • A method is presented to find Z by adding three times the common difference to 42, resulting in Z = 57.
  • The formula an = a1 + (n – 1)d is used to find the first term, leading to a1 = 12.
  • There is a correction regarding the value of d, with one participant asserting it is wrong while another later confirms d = 5 is correct.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is some disagreement regarding the correctness of the value for d, although it is later confirmed by another participant. The overall discussion remains somewhat unresolved regarding the initial claim about d.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the correctness of the common difference and its implications for the other calculations. The discussion does not clarify all assumptions or dependencies on definitions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in arithmetic progressions, mathematical problem-solving, or those seeking assistance with similar homework problems may find this discussion useful.

mathlearn
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Okay, So far I have seen and know to find the common difference of arithmetic terms using the consecutive terms. But this progression looks different (Shake)

Find the common difference , Value of Z and the first term of it.

Many Thanks (Happy)
 

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Since 42 is four terms after 22 we must have 22 + 4d = 42, where d is the common difference. Can you solve for d and use that value to complete the other questions?
 
greg1313 said:
Since 42 is four terms after 22 we must have 22 + 4d = 42, where d is the common difference. Can you solve for d and use that value to complete the other questions?

Using the equation 22 + 4d = 42; d = 5;

Correct?

Now is there another way to find this,My method was to add 3 times the common difference.

Z=42+(5*3)
Z=42+15
Z=42+15
Z=57

To find the first term of the sequence , using the formula

an = a1 + (n – 1)d
57 = a1 + (10 – 1)5
57 = a1 + 45
57-45=a1
12=a1
 
Last edited:
Your value for d is wrong but everything else looks correct.
 
I see you've edited your post. d = 5 is correct.
 
Thank you ;)
 
mathlearn said:
Using the equation 22 + 4d = 42; d = 5;

Correct?

Now is there another way to find this,My method was to add 3 times the common difference.

Z=42+(5*3)
Z=42+15
Z=42+15
Z=57

To find the first term of the sequence , using the formula

an = a1 + (n – 1)d
57 = a1 + (10 – 1)5
57 = a1 + 45
57-45=a1
12=a1

Well done! :)
 

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