How do you write the nth term rule for the sequence 1/2,3,11/2,8,21/2,...?

1 Answer
Aug 1, 2016

T_n = (5n)/2 -2

Explanation:

First decide whether it is an AP or GP.
Subtract consecutive terms.

11/2-3 =5 1/2-3 = 2 1/2
3-1/2 = 2 1/2

There is the same difference, so it is an AP.

We have the first term, and d.
Sub into the general term.

T_n = a+ (n-1)d = 1/2 + 5/2(n-1)

T_n = 1/2 + (5n)/2 - 5/2

T_n = (5n)/2 -2