What is the value of $a_{2013}$ in the sequence challenge II?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around determining the value of $a_{2013}$ in a specific sequence defined by a pattern of repetition based on natural numbers. The sequence is characterized by increasing integers where each integer $n$ appears $n$ times consecutively.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant defines the sequence as $a_1 = 1$, $a_2 = a_3 = 2$, $a_4 = a_5 = a_6 = 3$, and so forth, suggesting a pattern where the integer $n$ appears $n$ times.
  • Another participant reiterates the same definition of the sequence, emphasizing the pattern of repetition.
  • A third participant acknowledges the correctness of the previous contributions without providing additional analysis or calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree on the definition of the sequence, but the specific value of $a_{2013}$ remains uncalculated and unresolved in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks detailed calculations or methods to derive $a_{2013}$ from the defined sequence, leaving the determination of this value open-ended.

lfdahl
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Let $a_1 = 1$, $a_2 = a_3 = 2$, $a_4 = a_5 = a_6 = 3$, $a_7 = a_8 = a_9 = a_{10} = 4$, and so on. That is,
$a_n ∶ 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 6, . . . . $ What is $a_{2013}$?
 
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lfdahl said:
Let $a_1 = 1$, $a_2 = a_3 = 2$, $a_4 = a_5 = a_6 = 3$, $a_7 = a_8 = a_9 = a_{10} = 4$, and so on. That is,
$a_n ∶ 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 6, . . . . $ What is $a_{2013}$?
1+2+3+4+------+62=1953
$\therefore a_{1953}=62$
2013-1953=60<63
and we have:
$a_{2013}=63$
 
Last edited:
the 1st term is 1, there are 2's then 3 3's so on

there are n n's after n-1 so 1st n is at n(n-1)/2 and last n at n(n+1)/2

2013 > 62 * 63/2 but < 63 * 64/2 so ans is 63

as 62 finishes at 63 * 62/2 or 1953 and 63 frm 1954 to 2016 positions
 
Thankyou kaliprasad and Albert! Your anwers are correct. Good job!:)
 

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