Question

A sequence is defined by the function A(n) =8+ (n -1)(-4).

Which term, n, would result in A(n) = -172?
A) 44
B) 46
C)692
D)700

Answer 1

B. 46.

Explanation:

First we set up the equation A(n)=-172 and substitute the given equation for A(n), giving us -172=8+(n-1)(-4). Simplifying, we get -180=(-4n+12), or -4n=-192, or n=48. However, n represents the number of terms in the sequence, and since the sequence starts with n=1, we need to subtract 1 from our answer to get the term number corresponding to A(n)=-172. Therefore, the answer is B) 46.