Please help with Arithmetic Sequence Question

In summary, the problem asks to express b in terms of a and c, given that 1/a, 1/b, and 1/c are consecutive terms in an arithmetic sequence. The solution involves setting up an equation using the fact that the difference between consecutive terms is the same. After simplifying the equation, we can solve for b.
  • #1
Digital Genius
7
0

Homework Statement



* "/" means divided by *

1/a , 1/b , 1/c are consecutive terms in an AS, where a,b,c ε R\0. (whatever that means haha)

express b in terms of a and c. give your answer in its simplest form.

*thats all it says*

Homework Equations



there are none :)

The Attempt at a Solution



sorry but i have absolutely no clue and that's why I am posting this haha
 
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  • #2
ok nevermind guys sorry, i just found that i did do the question haha...

anyways for those who want to know its like this...

T1, T2, T3
1/a, 1/b, 1/c = AS
T2-T1=T3-T2
T2+T2=T3+T1
1/b + 1/b = 1/c + 1/a
2(1/b)=1/ac
2b=1/(1/a - 1/c)
b= 2 1/(1/a - 1/c)

and that's it i think..
 
  • #3
Digital Genius said:
ok nevermind guys sorry, i just found that i did do the question haha...

anyways for those who want to know its like this...

T1, T2, T3
1/a, 1/b, 1/c = AS
T2-T1=T3-T2
T2+T2=T3+T1
1/b + 1/b = 1/c + 1/a
2(1/b)=1/ac
2b=1/(1/a - 1/c)
b= 2 1/(1/a - 1/c)


and that's it i think..
It's wrong.
##\frac{1}{c}+\frac{1}{a} \neq \frac{1}{ac}##
You have some algebra problems there. I get a different answer. Try again
I have coloured the wrong parts in red.
 
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  • #4
Please post your correct solution too,for other to see :smile:
 
  • #5
so what is the rest of it that you got? because I am stumped haha
 
  • #6
Let's start from the original question.
##\frac{1}{a},\frac{1}{b},\frac{1}{c}## . Express b interms of a and c.
As you showed, ##\frac{1}{b}-\frac{1}{a}=\frac{1}{c}-\frac{1}{b}##
So ##\frac{1}{b}+\frac{1}{b}=\frac{1}{c}+\frac{1}{a}##
##\frac{2}{b}=\frac{1}{c}+\frac{1}{a}##


Simplify ##\frac{1}{c}+\frac{1}{a}## then solve for b.
 
  • #7
ok thanks haha, i have it now, i even checked with my A- standard student/friend :D
 

1. What is an arithmetic sequence?

An arithmetic sequence is a sequence of numbers where the difference between consecutive terms is a constant value. This constant value is called the common difference.

2. How do I find the common difference in an arithmetic sequence?

To find the common difference in an arithmetic sequence, subtract any term in the sequence from the next consecutive term.

3. What is the formula for finding the nth term in an arithmetic sequence?

The formula for finding the nth term in an arithmetic sequence is: an = a1 + (n-1)d, where an is the nth term, a1 is the first term, and d is the common difference.

4. How do I determine if a sequence is an arithmetic sequence?

To determine if a sequence is an arithmetic sequence, check if the difference between consecutive terms is constant. If it is, then the sequence is arithmetic.

5. Can I use the arithmetic sequence formula to find any term in the sequence?

Yes, the arithmetic sequence formula can be used to find any term in the sequence as long as you know the first term and the common difference. Simply plug in the values into the formula to find the desired term.

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