Question

Describe the steps involved in calculating the sum of an arithmetic sequence using a calculator.

Answer 1

To calculate the sum of an arithmetic sequence using a calculator, follow these steps: Identify the first term, common difference, and number of terms. Use the formula for the sum of an arithmetic sequence. Replace the variables with the given values and solve using a calculator.

Step-by-step explanation:

To calculate the sum of an arithmetic sequence using a calculator, follow these steps:

1. Identify the first term of the sequence (a1), the common difference (d), and the number of terms (n).
2. Use the formula for the sum of an arithmetic sequence:
3. Sn = (n/2)(2a1 + (n-1)d)
4. Replace the variables in the formula with the values you have.
5. Using a calculator, solve the equation to find the sum of the arithmetic sequence.

For example, if the first term (a1) is 3, the common difference (d) is 2, and the number of terms (n) is 5, we would plug in these values into the formula:

S5 = (5/2)(2(3) + (5-1)(2)) = 15 + 8 = 23

Therefore, the sum of the arithmetic sequence is 23.