Question

(a(1) = 20
(a(n) = a(n - 1) - 17
Find the 3rd term in the sequence.

Answer 1

The 3rd term is -14

Explanation:

This is a recursive formula. It tells us that the first term is 20 and that the common difference is -17.

a(1) = 20

a(2) = a(1) - 17 = 3

a(3) = a(2) - 17 = -14

Answer 2

a3 = -14

Explanation:

a(1) = 20

a(n) = a(n - 1) - 17

a(2) = a(2-1) - 17

a(2) = a(1) -17

=20-17 = 3

a(3) = a(3-1) - 17

= a(2) -17

3-17

-14