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Decide whether the sequence is artithemetic, geometric or neither 2,6,10,16

1 Answer

6 votes

Answer:

We conclude that the sequence is NEITHER geometrc nor arithmetic.

Explanation:

Given the sequence


2,6,10,16,...

As we know that

An arithmetic sequence has a constant difference d and is defined by:


a_n=a_1+\left(n-1\right)d

Computing the differences between all adjacent terms:


6-2=4,\:\quad \:10-6=4,\:\quad \:16-10=6

The difference is not constant

Hence, the sequence is NOT arithmetic.

NOW, let's check whether is a geometric sequence or not

A geometric sequece has a constant common ration r and is defined by:


a_n=a_0\cdot r^(n-1)

Computing the common ratios between all adjacent terms:


(6)/(2)=3,\:\quad (10)/(6)=1.66666\dots ,\:\quad (16)/(10)=1.6

The ratio is not constant

Hence, the sequence is NOT geometric.

Therefore, we conclude that the sequence is NEITHER geometrc nor arithmetic.

User Dorothee
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