*Find the sum of the first 17 terms

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the sum of the first 17 terms of a specific arithmetic series defined by the terms $8+\sqrt{7}$, $6$, and $4-\sqrt{7}$. Participants explore different approaches to calculate the sum, including the use of formulas for arithmetic series.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states the first term $a_1=8+\sqrt{7}$, the number of terms $n=17$, and the common difference $d=2+\sqrt{7}$, proposing a sum of $136 \sqrt{7 }-170$.
  • Another participant corrects the common difference to $d=-2-\sqrt{7}$ and suggests using the formula for the sum of an arithmetic series.
  • A subsequent reply reiterates the values of $n$, $a_1$, and $d$, and calculates the sum as $119\sqrt{7}-136$.
  • Another participant provides a different result of $-119\sqrt{7}-136$.
  • One participant acknowledges a mistake regarding the sign in their calculation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is disagreement regarding the correct common difference and the resulting sums, with multiple competing calculations presented without consensus on the correct answer.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not resolved the discrepancies in their calculations, and there are indications of missing assumptions regarding the series terms.

karush
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Find the sum of the first $17$ terms of the arithmetic series:

$8+\sqrt{7}$, $6$, $4-\sqrt{7 }$...

$a_1=8+\sqrt{7}$; $n=17$; $d=2+\sqrt{7 }$

$\displaystyle\sum_{k=1}^{n}(a_1-kd)=136 \sqrt{7 }-170$

Don't have book answer for this?

Much Mahalo
 
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Hi karush,

$$n=17,a_1=8+\sqrt7,d=-2-\sqrt7$$

Now use

$$S_n=\dfrac{n}{2}[2a_1+(n-1)d]$$
 
$$n=17,a_1=8+\sqrt7,d=-2-\sqrt7$$
$$S_n=\frac{n}{2}[2a_1+(n-1)d]=119\sqrt{7}-136$$
 
I got $$-119\sqrt{7}-136$$.
 
your right didn't see the - sign on the TI
 

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