1. Lesson 4

1.8. Explore 4

Mathematics 20-1 Module 1

Module 1: Sequences and Series

 

The General Term of a Geometric Sequence

 

Recall that the general term is the formula that describes the terms of a sequence. In Try This 3, you may have discovered that the general term of a geometric sequence is as follows:

 

 

tn = arn−1 hint

 

As a rule, you can use the general term to solve problems related to specific terms of a geometric sequence.

 


tn = the value of the nth term

 

a = the first term of the sequence

 

r = the common ratio

 

n = the position of the term
formula sheet
This is a good time to add the geometric sequence general term to your copy of Formula Sheet.


 

textbook

Turn to page 35 of the textbook. Read “Example 2” and study the solution. Pay careful attention to the following:

  • how the general term is established

  • the order in which the number operations are performed

Remember that the general term in the textbook uses t1 in place of a.

 

Self-Check 2

 

This is a play button that opens Geometric Sequence Self-Check.

Complete Geometric Sequence Self-Check.