Calculus Examples
3 , 9 , 15 , 21
Step 1
This is an arithmetic sequence since there is a common difference between each term. In this case, adding 6 to the previous term in the sequence gives the next term. In other words, an=a1+d(n−1).
Arithmetic Sequence: d=6
Step 2
This is the formula of an arithmetic sequence.
an=a1+d(n−1)
Step 3
Substitute in the values of a1=3 and d=6.
an=3+6(n−1)
Step 4
Step 4.1
Apply the distributive property.
an=3+6n+6⋅−1
Step 4.2
Multiply 6 by −1.
an=3+6n−6
an=3+6n−6
Step 5
Subtract 6 from 3.
an=6n−3
Step 6
Substitute in the value of n to find the nth term.
a5=6(5)−3
Step 7
Multiply 6 by 5.
a5=30−3
Step 8
Subtract 3 from 30.
a5=27