How to Solve Problems in Arithmetic Series Using Formulas?

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To solve problems in arithmetic series, the key formulas are An = A1 + (n-1)d for finding the nth term and Sn = n/2 (A1 + An) for the sum of the first n terms. For the problem of finding A1 given S10 = -20 and d = 4, the formula can be rearranged to Sn = n/2 [2A1 + (n-1)d]. By substituting the known values, one can solve for A1. In the second problem, to find S12 for the series starting with 2, the values n = 12, d = 3, and A1 = 2 can be used in the same formula. Understanding how to manipulate these formulas is crucial for solving arithmetic series problems effectively.
bananaman13
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I don't understand on how to get the answer of a certain problem in arithmetic series.

formula/s:

Arithmetic means

An=A1+ (n-1)d

Arithmetic series

Sn=n/2 (A1+An)

I understand on how to get the terms to these but when finding for:

Find A1 if,
S10= -20 , d= 4

&

Find S12 if, 2+5+8+...

I couldn't quite grasp the idea on how to apply the formulas to these problems.

Any help is appreciated. Thank you very much
 
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Sn=n/2 (A1+An)

this can also be written as Sn=n/2 (A1+(A1+ (n-1)d))

which then further simplifies to: Sn=n/2 (2A1+ (n-1)d)

now plug in the known values and simplify

for your first question, the value of n=10

for your second question,
n=12,d=3,A1=2
 
Thank you so much.

So, in which case,

Sn=n/2 (A1+An) is still equal to
Sn=n/2 [2A1+(n-1)d]

Just different in how to solve it.
 
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