Final answer:
To calculate the eighth term (a8) of an arithmetic sequence with a first term (a1) of 9 and a common difference (d) of 1/2, you use the formula an = a1 + (n - 1)d and find that a8 equals 12.5.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the eighth term, a8, of an arithmetic sequence where the first term, a1, is 9 and the common difference, d, is 1/2, use the formula for the nth term of an arithmetic sequence:
an = a1 + (n - 1)d
Substitute the given values into this formula to find a8:
a8 = 9 + (8 - 1)(1/2)
a8 = 9 + 7(1/2)
a8 = 9 + 3.5
a8 = 12.5
Therefore, the eighth term of the sequence is 12.5.