Chapter 2

27

Sequence and series

Chapter 2
Sequences and Series
__________________________________________________________________________________________

2.1

Introduction:

The INVENTOR of chess asked the King of the Kingdom that he

may be rewarded in lieu of his INVENTION with one grain of wheat for
the first square of the board, two grains for the second, four grains for the
third, eight grains for the fourth, and so on for the sixty four squares.
Fortunately, this apparently modest request was examined before it was
granted. By the twentieth square, the reward would have amounted to
more than a million grains of wheat; by the sixty-fourth square the number
called for would have been astronomical and the bulk would have for
exceeded all the grains in the kingdom.
The basis of this story a sequence of numbers that have a
mathematical relationship --- has a great many important applications.
Many of them are beyond the scope of this book, but we shall explore the
means of dealing with a number of practical, and often entertaining,
problems of this type.

2.2

Sequences:

A set of numbers arranged in order by some fixed rule is called as

sequences.
For example
(i)
2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 - - - - - - - - - - - (ii)
1, 3, 5, 7, 9, - - - - - - - - - - - (iii)

1 1 1 1
, , ,
,-----------2 4 8 16

In sequence a1, a2, a3, an, .. a1 is the first term, a2 is the

second term, a3 is the third and so on.
A sequence is called finite sequence if it has finite terms e.g., 2, 4,
6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16.
A sequence is called infinite sequence if it has infinite terms, e.g.,
, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, - - - - - - - -

2.3

Progression:

If a sequence of number is such that each term can be obtained

from the preceding one by the operation of some law, the sequence is
called a progression.
Note:- Each progression is a sequence but each sequence may or may not
be a progression

2.4

Arithmetic Sequence:

Chapter 2

28

Sequence and series

A sequence in which each term after the first term is obtained from
the preceding term by adding a fixed number, is called as an arithmetic
sequence or Arithmetic Progression, it is denoted by A.P.
e.g., (i)
2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, - - - - - - - - (ii)
1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, - - - - - - - - - Common Difference:
The fixed number in above definition is called as common
difference. It is denoted by d. it is obtained by subtracting the preceding
terms from the next term i.e; an an-1 ; n1 .
For example
2, 4, 6, 8, 4, - - - - - - - d = Common difference = a2 a1 = 4 2 = 2
Or
d = Common difference = a3 a2 = 6 4 = 2
The General Form of an Arithmetic Progression:
Let a be the first term and d be the common difference, then
General form of an arithmetic progression is
a, a + d, a + 2d, - - - - - - - - - - a + (n 1)d
2.5 nth term or General term(or, last term)of an Arithmetic
Progression:
If a be the first term and d be the common difference then
a1 = first term = a = a + (1 1)d
a2 = 2nd term = a + d = a + (2 1)d
a3 = 3rd term = a + 2d = a + (3 1)d
a4 = 4th term = a + 3d = a + (4 1)d
------------------------------------------------------------------------an = nth term = a + (n 1)d
an = nth term = a + (n 1)d
in which
a = 1st term
d = common difference
n = number of terms
Example 1:
Find the 7th term of A.P. in which the first term is 7 and the
common difference is 3.
Solution:
a7 = 7th term = ?
a1 = 7
d=3
Putting these values in
an = a + (n 1)d
a7 = 7 + (7 1)(3)

Chapter 2

29

Sequence and series

= 7 + 6 (3)
= 7 18
a7 = 11
Example 2:

5
4

1 3
4 4

Find the 9th term of the A.P. , , , . . . . . .

Solution:

5
4
1 5 1 5
d =

4 4 4 4
1 5 4
1
=
4
4
a1 =

9th term =

a9 = ?
an = a + (n 1)d

5
(9 1).1
4
5
8
=
4
5 32 27

a9 =
4
4
a9 =

Example 3:
Find the sequence whose general term is
Solution:
Here

an =

Put n = 1,
Put n = 2,
Put n = 3,
Put n = 4,

n(n 1)
2
1(1 1) 0
0
a1 =
2
2
2(2 1) 2(1)

1
a2 =
2
2
3(3 1) 3(2)

3
a3 =
2
2
4(4 1) 4(3)

6
a4 =
2
2

n(n 1)
2

Chapter 2

30

Put n = 5,

a5 =

Sequence and series

5(5 1) 5(4)

10
2
2

Therefore the required sequence is 0, 1, 3, 6, 10, - - - - - - - -

Exercise 2.1
Q.1

Find the terms indicated in each of the following A.P.

(i)
1, 4, 7, - - - - - - - 7th term
(ii)
7, 17, 27, - - - - - - - 13th term
(iii)

Q.2
Q.3
Q.4
Q.5
Q.6

Q.7
Q.8
Q.9
Q.10

1 1 1
, , ,- - - - - - - 6 4 3

20th term

Find the first four terms of A.P. in which first term is 7 and
common difference is 4.
Find the number of terms in an A.P. in which a1 = 5, d = 25 and
an = 130.
(i) Which term in the arithmetic progression 4, 1, -2 . is 77?
(ii) Which term in the arithmetic progression 17, 13, 9 . is 19?
Find the 7th term of an A.P. whose 4th term is 5 and the common
difference is 2.
What is the first term of the eight term A.P. in which the common
difference is 6 and the 8th term is 17.
Find the 20th term of the A.P. whose 3rd term is 7 and 8th term is
17.
If the 12th term of an A.P. is 19 and 17th term in 29, Find the first
term and the common difference.
The 9th term of an A.P. is 30 and the 17th term is 50. Find the first
three terms.
Find the sequence whose nth term is 4n + 5. Also prove that the
sequence is in A.P.

Q.11

If

Q.12

If

are in A.P, show that b =

are in A.P, show that the common difference is

Answers 2.1
Q.1

(i)

a7 = 19

Q.2
Q.4

7, 3, 1, 5
(i) n = 28

(ii)
(ii) n = 10

a13 = 127
Q.3
Q.5

(iii) a20 =

n=6
a17 = 21

7
4

Chapter 2

31

Sequence and series

Q.6

a = 25

Q.8

a = 3, d = 2

Q.10

9, 13, 17, - - - - - - and the difference between consecutive terms is

equal. So the sequence is an A.P.

2.6

Arithmetic Means (A.Ms):

Q.7
Q.9

10,

a20 = 41

25
, 15
2

If a, A, b are three consecutive terms in an Arithmetic Progression,

Then A is called the Arithmetic Mean (A.M) of a and b.
i.e.
if a, A, b are in A.P. then
Aa=bA
A+A=a+b
2A = a + b
A=

a+b
2

The arithmetic mean of two numbers is equal to one half the sum
of the two numbers.
Example 1:
Find the A.M. between 5 4 and 5 4
Solution:
Here a = 5 4 , b = 5 4
A.M. =

2.7

a+b
2
5 4 + 5 4
A=
2
2 5
=
= 5
2
A=

n Arithmetic Means between a and b:

The number A1, A2, A3 - - - - - An are said to be n arithmetic

means between a and b if a, A, A2, A3, - - - - - - An, b are in A.P. We may
obtain the arithmetic means between two numbers by using an = a +(n1)d
to find d, and the means can then be computed.
Example 2:
Insert three A.Ms between 18 and 4.
Solution:
Let A1, A2, A3 be the required A.Ms between 18 and 4, then
18, A1, A2, A3, 4 are in A.P.
Here a = 18,
n = 5,
a5 = 4,
d=?
Using
an = a + (n 1)d

Chapter 2

32

Sequence and series

a5 = 18 + (5 1)d
4 = 18 + 4d
4d = 4 + 18
4d = 22
d=
Therefore A1 = 2nd term

11
2
=a+d

11 25
=
2
2
25 11
A2 = 3rd term = A1 + d
=
+
2
2
25 11
=
2
14
A2
=
= 7
2
25
3
, 7,
Thus the required A.Ms are
2
2
= 18 +

Example 3:
Insert n A.Ms between a and b.
Solution:
Let, A1, A2, A3, An be the n. A.Ms between a and b.
Then a, A1, A2, A3, b, are in A.P.
Let, d be the common difference
So,
a = a, n = n + 2, d = ? an = b
an = a + (n 1)d
b = a + (n + 2 1)d
b = a + (n + 1)d
b a = (n + 1)d
d=

ba
n+1

A1 = a + d = a +
A1 =

b a a(n + 1)+b a an + a + b a
=
=
n+1
n+1
n+1

an + b
n+1

A2 = A1 + d =

an + b b a an + a + b a
+
=
n+1
n+1 n+1

Chapter 2

33

Sequence and series

(n 1)a + 2b
n+1
[n-(n 1)]a + nb (n n+1)a + nb
a + nb

....
An =
n+1
n+1
n+1
A2 =

Thus n A.Ms between a and b are:

an + b (n 1)a + 2b (n 2)a + 3b
a + nb
,
,
....
n+1
n+1
n+1
n+1

Exercise 2.2
Q.1

Q.2

Find the A.M. between

(i) 17 and 3
(ii) 5 and 40
(iv) x + b and x b
(iii) 2 + 3 and 2 3
Insert two A.Ms between 5 and 40.

Q.3

Insert four A.Ms between

Q.4
Q.5
Q.6

Insert five A.Ms between 10 and 25.

Insert six A.Ms between 12 and 9.
If 5 , 8 are two A.Ms between a and b , find a and b

Q.7

a n+1 + bn+1
Find the value of n so that
may be the A.Ms between
a n + bn

Q.8
Q.9

2
3 2
and
2
2

a and b.
Find the value of x if x + 1, 4x + 1 and 8x 1 are the consecutive
terms of an arithmetic progression.
Show that the sum of n A.Ms between a and b is equal to n times
their single A.M.

Answer 2.2
Q.1

(i)

(ii)

Q.2

10, 25

Q.4

25
35
45
,15, , 20,
2
2
2

Q.6

a= 2 , b = 11 Q.7

Q.3

35
(iii)
2
(iv)
2
7 2 9 2 11 2 13 2
,
,
,
10 10 10
10
Q.5
n=0

9, 6, 3, 0 3, 6
Q.8

x=2

Chapter 2

34

Sequence and series

Series:
The sum of the terms of a sequence is called as series. For
example: 1, 4, 9, 16, - - - - - - is a sequence.
Sum of the terms of sequence i.e., 1 + 4 + 9 + 16 - - - - - represent
a series.

2.8

Arithmetic Series:

The sum of the terms of an Arithmetic sequence is called as

Arithmetic series. For example:
7, 17, 27, 37, 47, - - - - - - - - - is an A.P.
7 + 17 + 27 + 37 + 47 + - - - - - - - - is Arithmetic series.
The sum of n terms of an Arithmetic Sequence:
The general form of an arithmetic sequence is a, a + d, a + 2d, - - - - - - - a + (n 1)d.
Let Sn denoted the sum of n terms of an Arithmetic sequence.
Then
Sn = a + (a + d)+(a + 2d) + - - - - + [a +(n 1)d]
Let nth term [a + (n 1)d] =
The above series can be written as
Sn = a+(a + d) + (a + 2d) + - - - - - +
Or,
Sn = a + (a + d) + (a + 2d) + - - - - - + ( - 2d) + ( - d) + -----(I)
Writing 1 in reverse order, we have
Sn = + ( - d) + ( - 2d) + - - -(a + 2d) + (a + d) + a (II)
Adding I and II
2Sn = (a + ) + (a + ) + (a + ) + - - - - + (a + )
2Sn = n (a + )

n
(a + )
But
2
n
Sn = [a + (a + (n 1)d)]
2
n
= [a + a + (n 1)d]
2
n
Sn = [2a + (n 1)d]
2
Sn =

= a + (n 1)d

is the formula for the sum of n terms of an arithmetic sequence.

Example 1:
Find the sum of the series 3 + 11 + 19 + - - - - to 16 terms.
Solution:
Here a = 3, d = 11 3 = 8, n = 16

Chapter 2

35

Sequence and series

n
[2a + (n 1)d]
2
16
S16 =
[2(3) + (16 1)8]
2

Using formula Sn =

= 8[6 + 15(8)]
= 8[6 + 120]
S16 = 8 x 126 = 1008
Example 2:
Find the sum of all natural numbers from 1 to 500 which are
divisible by 3.
Solution:
The sequence of numbers divisible by 3 is
3, 6, 9, 12, - - - - - 498 (which is in A.P.)
Here a = 3,
d = 6 3 = 3,
n=?
an = 498
First we find n
For this using an = a + (n 1)d
498 = 3 + (n 1)(3)
498 = 3 + 3n 3
3n = 498
n = 166
Now
a = 3,
d = 3,
n = 166,
Sn = ?
Sn
S166

S166

n
[2a + (n 1)d]
2
166
=
[2(3) + (166 1)3]
2
=

= 83[6 + 165(3)] = 83(6 + 495)

= 83 x 501
= 41583

Example 3:
`
If the sum of n terms of an A.P. is 2n + 3n2. Find the
nth term.
Solution:
We have
Sn
= 2n + 3n2
Sn-1
= 2(n 1) +3(n 1)2
= 2(n 1) +3(n2 2n + 1)
= 2n 2 + 3n2 6n + 3
Sn-1
= 3n2 4n + 1
nth term = an = Sn Sn-1
= 2n + 3n2 (3n2 4n + 1)
= 2n + 3n2 3n2 + 4n 1
an = 6n 1

Chapter 2

36

Sequence and series

Example 4:
The sum of three numbers in an A.P. is 12 and the sum of their
cubes is 408. Find them.
Solution:
Let the required numbers be
a d, a, a + d
According to 1st condition:
(a d) + a + (a + d) = 12
a d + a + a + d = 12
3a = 12
a= 4
According to 2nd given condition:
(a d)3 + a3 + (a + d)3 = 408
3
3
2
2
3
3
a d 3a d + 3ad + a + a + d3 + d3 + 3a2d + 3ad2 = 408
3a3 + 6ad2 = 408
3
3(4) + 6(4) d2 = 408
24d2 = 408 192
d2 = 9
d = 3

When a = 4 d = 3 then number are a d, a, a + d

i.e. 4 3, 4, 4 + 3 i.e. 1, 4 , 7
when a = 4, d = 3 then numbers are a d, a, a + d
4 (3), 4, 4 + (3)
4 + 3, 4, 4 3 i.e., 7, 4 , 1
Hence the required numbers are 1, 4, 7
or 7, 4, 1
Note:
The problem containing three or more numbers in A.P. whose sum
in given it is often to assume the number as follows.
If the required numbers in A.P are odd i.e. 3, 5, 7 etc. Then take
a(first term) as the middle number and d as the common difference.
Thus three numbers are a d, a, a + d. If the required numbers in
A.P are even i.e. 2, 4, 6, etc. then take a d, a + d as the middle numbers
and 2d as the common difference.
Thus four numbers are a 3d, a d, a + d, a + 3d and six numbers
are:
a 5d, a 3d, a d, a + d, a + 3d, a + 5d etc.
Example 5:
A man buys a used car for $600 and agrees to pay $100 down and
$100 per month plus interest at 6 percent on the outstanding
indebtedness until the car paid for. How much will the car cost
him?
Solution:

Chapter 2

37

Sequence and series

The rate of 6 percent per year is 0.5 percent per month.

Hence, when the purchaser makes his first payment, he will owe 1
months interest.
The interest on $500 = (500)(0.005) = $2.50
The purchaser will pay in the second month = $102.50
Since the purchaser pays $100 on the principal, his interest from
month to month is reduced by 0.5 percent of $100, which is $0.50 per
month.
The final payment will be $100 plus interest on 100 for 1 month,
which is = $100.50
Hence his payments on $500 constitute an arithmetic progression
102.50 + - - - - - - + 100.50
Here a = 102.40,
= 100.50 and n = 5
Therefore by the formula

n
(a + )
2
5
= (102.50 + 100.50)
2
5
= (203) = $507.50
2

S=

Thus, the total cost of the car will be $ 607.50

Exercise 2.3
Q.1

Sum the series:

(i) 5 + 8 + 11 + 14 + .. to n terms.
(ii) 51 + 50 + 49 + + 21.
(iii) 5 + 3 + 1 1 to 10 terms.
(iv)

Q.2
Q.3
Q.4
Q.5

Q.6
Q.7

+-------- to n terms

The nth term of a series in 4n + 1. Find the sum of its 1st n terms
and also the sum of its first hundred terms.
Find the sum of the first 200 odd positive integers.
Find the sum of all the integral multiples of 3 between 4 and 97
How many terms of the series:
(i) - 9 - 6 - 3
amount to 66?
(ii) 5 + 7 + 9 +
amount to 192?
Obtain the sum of all the integers in the first 1000 positive integers
which are neither divisible by 5 nor 2.
The sum of n terms of a series is 7n2 + 8n. Show that it is an A.P
and find its common difference.

Chapter 2
Q.8
Q.9
Q.10
Q.11
Q.12
Q.13
Q.14

38

Sequence and series

Sum the series

1 + 3 5 + 7 + 9 11 + 13 + 15 17 to 3n terms.
If S1, S2, S3 be sums to n, 2n, 3n terms of an arithmetic
progression, Show that S3 = 3(S2 S1).
The sum of three numbers in A.P. is 24, and their product is 440.
Find the numbers.
Find four numbers in A.P. whose sum is 24 and the sum of whose
square is 164.
Find the five number in A.P. whose sum is 30 and the sum of
whose square is 190.0
How many bricks will be there in a pile if there are 27 bricks in the
bottom row, 25 in the second row, etc., and one in the top row?
A machine costs Rs. 3200, depreciates 25 percent the first year, 21
percent of the original value the second year, 17 percent of the
original value of the third year, and so on for 6 years. What is its
value at the end of 6 years.

Answers 2.3
Q.1

(i)Sn =

n
[3n + 7]
2

(ii)

(iii)

S10 = 40

(iv)

n = 31, Sn = 1116

Q.2
Q.4
Q.6
Q.10
Q.12

Sn = n(2n + 3), S100= 20300

1581
Q.5 (i)
2000,000
Q.7
5, 8, 11 or 11, 8, 5
4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 8, 7, 6, 5, 4

Q.3
S200 = 40,000
n = 11
(ii)
n = 12
d = 14
Q.8 S3n = n (3n 4)
Q.11 3, 5, 7, 9 or 9, 7, 5, 3
Q.13 196
Q.14 Rs. 320.00

2.9

Geometric Sequence or Progression (G.P):

A geometric progression is a sequence of numbers each term of

which after the first is obtained by multiplying the preceding term by a
constant number called the common ratio. Common ratio is denoted by r.
Example:
(i)
2, 4, 8, 16, 32, is G.P
because each number is obtained by multiplying the preceding
number by 2.
(ii)
2, 4, 8,
(iii) 4, 12, 36,

Chapter 2

39

Sequence and series

Note:- In geometric progression, the ratio between any two consecutive

terms remains constant and is obtained by dividing the next term with the
preceeding term, i.e., r =

an
, n1
a n-1

2.10 nth term or General term(or, last term) of a

Geometric Progression (G.P):
If a is the first term and r is the common ratio then the general
form of G.P is a, ar, ar2, ar3,
If
a1 =1st term = a
a2 =2nd term = ar
a3 = 3rd term = ar2
------------------------an = nth term = arn-1
Which is the nth term of G.P in which:
a = 1st term
r = common ratio
n = number of terms
an = nth term = last term
Example 2:
Write the sequence in which
a = 5, r = 3, n = 5
a1 = a = 5
a2 = ar = 5(3) = 15
a3 = a2r = 15(3) = 45
a4 = a3r = 45(3) = 135
a5 = a4r = 135(3) = 405
Therefore, the required sequence is: 5, 15, 45, 135, 405
Example 3:
Find 4th term in the G.P. 5, 10, 20,
Solution:
a = 5, r =

10
= 2, an = ?
5

an = arn-1
a4 = a4 = 5(2)4-1 = 5 x 8 = 40
Example 4:
Find n in the G.P. 4, 2, 1, if an =
Solution:

Since

4, 2, 1,

1
16

Chapter 2

40

Here, a = 4, r = 2, 4 =

Sequence and series

1
1
, an =
2
16

an = arn-1

let

1
1
= 4( )n-1
16
2
1
1
1
1
x 4 = ( )n-1 =
= ( )n-1
16
2
64
2
1
1
( )6 = ( )n-1
2
2
n1=6
or n = 6 + 1 = 7

Example 5:
Find the G.P. of which the third term is 4 and 6th is 32.
Solution:
Here a3 = 4, a6 = 32
an = arn-1
a3 = ar31, a6 = ar61
4 = ar2 (i)
32 = ar5 (ii)
Dividing (i) by (ii)

ar 2
4
1
1

or
=
8
ar 5 32
r3

r3 = 8 = (2)3
r = 2

Example 6:
The population of a town increases at the rate of 10% annually. Its
present population is 2,00,000 what will be its population at the
end of 5 years?
Solution:
Let, present population = a = 2,00,000 (given)
The increase of population at the end of 1st year
= a(10/100) = a(0.1)
Total population at the end of 1st year = a + a(0.1) = a(1.1)
Total population at the end of 2nd year = a(1.1)(1.1) = a(1.1)2
The population at the end of 5years is the 6th terms of G.P
a , a(1.1) , a(1.1)2
Here a = 2,00,000 , r = 1.1 , n =6 , a6 = ?
Since, an = arn - 1
a6 = 2,00,000 (1.1)5 = 2,00,000 (1.61051) = 322102
Example 7:

Chapter 2

41

Sequence and series

The value of an auto mobile depreciate at the rate of 15% per year.
What will be the value of an automobile 3 years hence which is
now purchased for Rs. 45,000?
Solution:
a = 45,000 = Purchased value of automobile
The amount depreciate at the end of 1st year = a (15/100) = 0.15a
The value of automobile at the end of 1st year = a 0.15a
= a(1 0.15) = a(0.85)
The value of automobile at the end of 2nd year = a(0.85)(1 0.15)
= a(0.85)(0.85)
= a(0.85)2
The value of automobile at the end of 3rd year = a(0.85)3
= 45,000(0.85)3
= 45,000 (0.614125)
= 27635.63 rupees

Exercise 2.4
Q.1

Write the next five terms of the following G.Ps.

(i)
2, 10, .
(ii)
27, 9, 3, .
(iii)

Q.2

1 1 1
, , ., 6th term
3 9 27

Find the nth term of the G.P.

(i)

Q.4

1 1
, , .
2 4

Find the term indicated in each of the following G.Ps.

(i)
1, 33, 36, ., 6th term
(ii)
i, 1, i, 1, ., 13th term
(iii)
2, 6,3 2, ., 15th term
(iv)

Q.3

1,

a = 8, r =

3
, n=5
2

(ii)
a = 1, r = 4, n = 6
(iii)
a = 3, r = 2, n = 10
Write down the finite geometric sequence which satisfies the given
condition.
(i)
a = 3, r = 5, n = 6
(ii)
First term = 2, second term = 6, n = 5

1
, n=8
3

(iii)

Third term = 9, sixth term =

(iv)

Fifth term = 9, eight term = 243, n = 8

Chapter 2

42

Sequence and series

Q.5

If

Q.6

If the second term of a G.P is 2 and the 11th term is

Q.7
Q.8

the first term? What is the nth term.

Find the 10th term of a G.P if 2nd term 43 and 4th term is 9.
What is the first term of a six term geometric progression in which

Q.9

Q.10

are G.P ,show that the common ratio is

the ratio is 3 and the sixth term is 27?

A business concern pays profit at the rate of 15% compounded
annually. If an amount of Rs. 2,00,000 is invested with the concern
now, what total amount will become payable at the end of 5 years?
A rubber bell is dropped from a height of 16dm, it continuously
rebounds to

Q.11
Q.12

1
, what is
256

3
of the distance of its previous fall. How high does it
4

rebound its fourth time?

Find three consecutive numbers in G.P whose sum is 26 and their
product is 216.
If the sum of the four numbers consecutive numbers of a G.P is 80
and A.M between second and fourth of them is 30.Find the terms.

Answers 2.4
1.

(i)

50, 250, 1250, 6250, 31250

(iii)

1 1 1
1
1
,
,
,
,
8 16 32 64 128

2.

(i)

(27)5

(ii)

(iii)

3.

(i)

81
2

(ii)

1024

(iii)

4.

(i)
(ii)

3, 15, 75, 375, 1875, 9375

2, 6, 18, 54, 162

(iii)

81, 27, 9, 3, 1,

(iv)

1 1
, , 1, 3, 9, 27, 81, 243
9 3

6.

1
a = 4, an = 4
2

(ii)

2(3)7
1536

1 1 1
, ,
3 9 27

n-1

7.

1,

243

1 1 1 1
, ,
,
3 9 27 81

(iv)

1
729

Chapter 2

8.
11.

43

a= 3
9. 402271.44
2 , 6 , 18 or 18 , 6 , 2
12.

Sequence and series

10.
5.06 dm
2 , 6 , 18 , 54

2.11 Geometric Mean:

When three quantities are in G.P., the middle one is called the
Geometric Mean (G.M.) between the other two. Thus G will be the G.M.
between a and b if a, G, b are in G.P.
To Find G.M between a and b:
Let, G be the G.M. between a and b
Then a. G. b are in G.P

G b
G2 = ab
a G
G = ab

Hence the G.M. between two quantities is equal to the square root
of their product.
Example 1:
Find the G.M. between 8 and 72.
Solution:
G = ab
G = 8 x 72 8 x 8 x 9 8x 3
G = 24

2.12 n G.Ms Between a and b:

The numbers G1, G2, G3 Gn are said to be n G.Ms between a
and b if a, G1, G2, G3 Gn, b are in G.P.
In order to obtain the G.Ms between a and b, we use the formula
an = arn-1 to find the value of r and then the G.Ms can be computed.

To Insert n G.Ms Between Two Numbers a and b

Let,G1, G2, G3 Gn be n G.Ms between a and b
Here a = a, an = b, n = n + 2 , r = ?
an
= arn-1
b
= arn-2-1 = arn-1
b/a
= rn-1
r = (b/a)1/(n-1)
So,
G1
= ar = a(b/a)1/(n+1)
G2
= G1r = a(b/a)1/(n+1)(b/a)1/(n+1) = a(b/a)2/(n+1)
G3
= G2r = a(b/a)2/(n+1)(b/a)1/(n+1) = a(b/a)3/(n+1)
Gn
= a(b/a)n/(n+1)
Example 2:
Find three G.Ms between 2 and 32.
Solution:

Chapter 2

44

Sequence and series

Let,G1, G2, G3 Gn be n G.Ms between 2 and 32

Then 2, G1, G2, G3 32 are in G.P.
Here a = 2, an = 32, r = ? n = 5
an
= arn-1
32
= 2(r)5-1 = 2r4
16
= r4
4
4
2
=r
r = 2
So,
G1
= ar = 2(2) = 4
G2
= G1r = 4(2) = 8
G3
= G2r = 8(2) = 16
Thus three G.Ms between 2 and 32 are 4, 8, 16.
Example 3:
Insert 6 G.Ms between 2 and 256.
Solution:
Let,G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6 be six G.Ms between 2 and 256.
Then 2, G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6 256 are in G.P.
Here a = 2, an = 32, r = ? n = 5
an
= arn-1
256
= 2(r)8-1 = 2r7
128
= r7
2
(2)7
=r
r = 2
So,
G1
= ar = 2(2)
=4
G2
= G1r = 4(2) = 8
G3
= G2r = 8(2) = 16
G4
= G3r = 16(2) = 32
G5
= G4r = 32(2) = 64
G6
= G5r = 64(2) = 128
Hence, required G.Ms are 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128.
Example 4:
The A.M between two numbers is 10 and their G.M is 8.
Determine the numbers.
Solution:

a+b =
G.M. =
ab
=

from (2)

a+b
= 10
2

A.M =

64
b =
a

20 . . . . . . .

(1)

ab 8
64 . . . . . . .
,

Put in (1)

(2)

Chapter 2

a+

45

Sequence and series

64
= 20
2

a2 + 64 = 20a
(a 16)(a 4) = 0
a = 16

or

a=4

64
=4
16
64
= 16
When, a = 4, b =
16
When, a = 16, b =

Hence the numbers are 4 and 16.

Exercise 2.5
Q1.

Find G.M between

(i)

4, 64

(ii)

1
, 243
3

(iii)

8 8
,
9 9

Q2.
Q3.

Insert two G.Ms between 2 and 2.

Insert three G.Ms between 256 and 1.

Q4.

Insert four G.Ms between 9 and

Q5.

Show that A.M of two unequal positive quantities is greater than

this G.M.

Q6.

For what value of n is

Q7.
Q8.

1
.
27

a n+1 b n+1
the G.M between a and b,
a n bn

where a and b are not zero simultaneously.

Prove that the product of n G.Ms between a and b is equal to the n
power of the single G.M between them.
The A.M of two positive integral numbers exceeds their
(positive)G.M by 2 and their sum is 20.Find the numbers.

Answers 2.5
Q1.

(i) 16

(ii) 9

Q2.

22/3 ,25/ 6

Q3.

64, 16, 4

Q6.

n=

Q8.

16 , 4 or

1
2

(iii)

8
9
Q4.

4 , 16

3, 1,

1 1
,
3 9

Chapter 2

46

Sequence and series

2.13 Geometric Series

A geometric series is the sum of the terms of a geometric
sequence.
If a, ar, ar2, + arn-1 is a geometric sequence.
Then a + ar + ar2 + + arn-1 is a geometric series.
Sum of n Terms of a Geometric Series
Let, Sn be the sum of geometric series
i.e. Sn = a + ar + ar2 + + arn-1 .. (1)
Multiplying by r on both sides
rSn = ar + ar2 + ar3 + + arn-1 +arn.. (2)
Subtracting (2) from (1), we get
Sn r Sn = a a rn
(1 r)Sn = a(1 rn)
Sn =

a(1 r n )
; r 1
1 r

For convenience, we use :

Sn =
and

Sn =

a(1 r n )
if |r| 1
1 r
a(r n 1)
if |r| > 1
r 1

Example 1:
Sum the series
Solution
Here

Sn

S7

S7

2
3
, 1, , . . . . . . . . . to 7 terms
3
2

2
1 3
, r=
=
2
3
2
3
n
a(1 r )
=
(because r < 1)
1 r
7
2 3 2 2187
1
3 2 3 1 128

=
5
3
1
2
2
2 2315 2 463
=

3 128 5 96
a=

Chapter 2

47

Sequence and series

Example 2:
Sum to 5 terms the series 1 + 3 + 9 + ..
Solution:
The given series is a G.P.
in which a = 1, r =

a2 3
3, n = 5
a1 1

a(r 4 1)
Sn =
(because r > 1)
r 1
1[(3)5 1] 243 1 242
Sn =

121
3 1
2
2

Example 3:
Find Sn for the series 2 + 4 + 8 + .. + 2n.

Since r = r > 1

Sn =

a(r n 1) 2(2n 1)

2n+1 2
r 1
2 1

Example 4:
How many terms of the series

2 1 1
55
. . . . . . . . amount to
3 3 2
72
Solution:

1
55
2
3
,n=? a= , r= 3
Sn =
2
72
9
2
9
n
a(1 r )
Sn =
1 r
n
n
2 3 2 3
1
1
55 9 2 9 2

3
72
3
1
2
2

n
55 4 3
1
72 45 2

45x55
3
1
72x4
2

275
3

1
32
2

Chapter 2

48
n

275 243 3
3

1
32
32 2
2
n=5

Sequence and series

5

Example 5:
Sum the series:
(i) 0.2 + .22 + .222 + to n terms
(ii) (x + y)(x2 + xy + y2) + (x3 + x2y + xy2 + y3) + to n terms.
Solutions:
(i) 0.2 + .22 + .222 + to n terms
Let, Sn = .2 + .22 + .222 + to n terms
= 2[.1 + .11 + .111 + to n terms]
Multiplying and dividing by 9

2
[.9 + .99 + .999 + to n terms]
9
2
= [(1 1) + (1 .01) + (0.1 .001) + to n terms]
9
2
= [(1+1+1+n terms)(0.1+.01+.001+..to n terms)]
9
.01
1
0.1
a = .1 r =
.1
10
1
a=
10
a(1 r n )
We use Sn =
1 r
n

1 1

1
10 10 2
2
1
1
Sn = n
n 1 n

1
9
9 10
9
1
10

Sn

Solution (ii)
Let, Sn = (x + y) + (x2 + xy +y2) + (x3+x2y+xy2+y3) + . to n term.
Multiplying and dividing by (x y)

1
[(x+y)(x-y)+(x-y)(x2+xy+y2)+(x-y) (x3+x2y+xy2+y3)+
(x y)
1
Sn =
[(x2 y2)+ (x3 y3)+ (x4 y4)+ . to n term]
(x y)
Sn =

Chapter 2

49

Sequence and series

1
[(x2 + x3 +x4+. to n term)(y2+x3+y4+. to n term]
(x y)
a(r n 1)
We use Sn =
r 1
1 x 2 (x n 1) y 2 (y n 1)

Sn =

y 1
(x y) x 1
Sn =

Example 6:
The sum of the first 10 terms of a G.P. is equal to 244 times the
sum of first 5 terms. Find common ratio.
Solution:
Here, n = 10, n = 5, r = ?
So,

a(1 r n )
Sn =
1 r
a(1 r10 )
a(1 r 5 )
S10 =
, S5 =
1 r
1 r

By the Given condition:

S10 = 244S5

a(1 r 5 )
a(1 r10 )
= 244

1 r
1 r
=
244(1 r5)
1 r10

(1)2 (r2)5
=
244(1 r5)
(1 r5) (1 + r5)=
244(1 r5)
(1 r5)[1 + r5-244] = 0
5
5
1r =0
1 + r 244 = 0 or
1 + r5 = 244 = 0
r5 = 1
r = 1 which not possible
r5 = 243 r = 3
Example 7:
Given n = 6, r =

2
665
, Sn =
find a.
3
144

Solution:
Formula

a(r n 1)
Sn =
r 1
2 6
a 1
665
3

2
144
1
3

|r| > 1

Chapter 2

50

Sequence and series

64

a 1
729
=
1
3
665
665
a
144
243
665 243
a=
x
144 665
27
a=
16
Example 8:
If a man deposits $ 200 at the beginning of each year in a bank that
pays 4 percent compounded annually, how much will be to his
credit at the end of 6 years?
Solution:
The man deposits $ 200 at the beginning of each year.
The bank pays 4% compounded interest annually
At the end of first year the principle amount or credit becomes
= 200(1.04)
At the beginning of second year the principle amount or credit is
= 200 + 200 (1.04)
At the end of second year the principle amount or credit becomes
= 200(1.04) + 200(1.04)2
= 200(1.04 + 1.042)
So at the end of 6 years the principle amount or credit becomes
= 200 (1.04 + 1.042 + sum upto 6 times)
Consider, 1.04 + 1.042 + - - - - - - - - 6 terms.
a = 1.04, r = 1.04, and n = 6
By the formula

a(r n 1)
Sn =
r 1
1.04(1.046 1)
S6 =
1.04 1
1.04(1.2653 1)
=
0.04
1.04 x 0.2653
=
0.04
= 6.8983

|r| > 1

Chapter 2

51

Sequence and series

Hence at the end of 6 years the credit is

= 200(6.8983)
= $1379.66

Exercise 2.6
Q1.

Q2.

Find the sum of each of the following series:

(i)

1 1
1 - - - - - - - to 6 terms
3 9

(ii)

x + x2 + x3 - - - - - - - to 20 terms.

(iii)

1 1 1
- - - - - - - + 64
8 4 2

(iv)
3 + 32 + 33 + - - - - - - - - - + 3n
How many terms of the series?

2
3 9
133
1 - - - - - - - amount to
3
2 4
48
Q3.

Q4.
Q5.

Sum the series.

(i)
.3 + .33 + .333 + - - - - - - - to n terms.
(ii)
3 + 33 + 333 + - - - - - - - to n terms.
(iii)
1 + (1 + x)r + (1+ x+x2)r2+(1+x+x2+x3)r3 + - - - to n terms.
What is the sum of the geometric series for which a = 2, n = 5,
l = an = 32 ?
A rubber ball is dropped from a height of 4.8 dm. It continuously
rebounds, each time rebounding

3
of the distance of the preceding
4

fall. How much distance has it traveled when it strikes the ground
for the sixth time?
Q6.
Q7.

The first term of geometric progression is

1
and the 10th term is
2

256, using formula find sum of its 12 terms.

What is first term of a six term G.P. in which the common ratio is
3 and the sixth term is 27 find also the sum of the first three
terms.

Answers 2.6
1.

(i)

364
243

(ii)

x(1 x 20 )
1 x

(iii)

1023/8

Chapter 2

(iv)
2.
3.

4.

52

Sequence and series

3(3n 1)
2

n=6
(i)

1
1
1
n

3
9 10n

(iii)

1 1 r n x(1 r n x n

(1 x) 1 r
1 rx

62

5.

26.76

(ii)

6.

4085
2

1 10(10n 1)
n

3
9

7. 3;

3(3 3 1)
3 1

2.14 Infinite Geometric Sequence:

A geometric sequence in which the number of terms are infinite is
called as infinite geometric sequence.
For example:
(i)

2,

4 8 16
, ,
, -----3 9 27

(ii)
2, 4, 8, 16, 32, - - - - - - Infinite Series:
Consider a geometric sequence a, ar, ar2, - - - - - - - to n terms.
Let Sn denote the sum of n terms then Sn = a + ar + ar2 + - - - - - to n terms.

a(1 r n )
Formula
Sn =
|r| 1
1 r
Taking limit as n on both sides
(1 r n )
limit Sn = limit a
n
n
1 r
1
rn

= limit a

n
1 r 1 r
ar n
a
= limit
limit
n 1 r n 1 r

as

n , rn 0

Therefore

S =

a
0
1 r

Chapter 2

53

S =

Sequence and series

a
1 r

the formula for the sum of infinite terms of G.P.

Convergent Series:
An infinite series is said to be the convergent series when its sum
tends to a finite and definite limit.
For example:

2 1 1 1
- - - - - - - is a series
3 3 6 12
2
1 2 1
Here a = , r = = < 1
3
3 3 2
a
S
=
1 r
2
2
= 3 3
1 1
1
3 2
2 1 4
x
=
3 2 3
Hence the series is convergent.
Divergent Series:
When the sum of an infinite series is infinite, it is said to be the
Divergent series.
For example:
2 + 4 + 8 + 16 + 32 + - - - - - - - Here a = 2, r = , 2 > 1
Therefore we use formula
Sn =

a(r n 1) 2(2n 1)

r 1
2 1

Sn = 2n+1 2

limit Sn = limit (2n+1 2)

n

+1

S = 2
2
= as n , 2n+1
Hence the series is a divergent series.

Chapter 2

54

Sequence and series

2.14 Recurring Decimals:

When we attempt to express a common fraction such as

3
or as
8

4
as a decimal fraction, the decimal always either terminates or
11
ultimately repeats.

3
= 0.375 (Decimal terminate)
8
4
= 0.363636 (Decimal repeats)
11
We can express the recurring decimal fraction 0.36 (or 0.36 ) as a
Thus

common fraction.
The bar ( 0.36 ) means that the numbers appearing under it are
repeated endlessly. i.e. 0.36 means 0.363636 - - - - - - Thus a non-terminating decimal fraction in which some digits are
repeated again and again in the same order in its decimal parts is called a
recurring decimal fraction.
Example 1:
Find the fraction equivalent to the recurring decimals 0.123 .
Solution:
Let
S
= 0.123
= 0.123 123 123 - - - - - - - - - - -
= 0.123 + 0.000123 + 0.000000123 - - - - - -

123
123
123
- - - - - -
1000 1000 000 1000 000 000
123 123 123
= 3 6 9 - - - - - -
10 10 10
123
1
Here a = 3 , r = 3
10
10
a
S =
1 r
123
123
123
3
1000 1000
= 10
=
1
1
1000 1
1 3
1
1000
1000
10
=

Chapter 2

55

Sequence and series

123 1000 123

x

1000 999 999

41
=
333
=

Example 2:
Find the sum of infinite geometric series in which a = 128,
r=

1
.
2

Solution:
a = 128, r =
S

Using

1
2

a
1 r
128
128
=

1
1
1 1
2
2
=

= 128 128x 2

3
2
256
=
3

Exercise 2.7
Q.1

Find the sum of the following infinite geometric series

(i)

Q.2

(ii)
Find the sum of the following infinite geometric series
(i)

Q.3

1 1
1

------8 16 32
2 2 1 - - - - - - -

a = 3, r =

2
(ii)
3

a = 3, r =

3
4

Which of the following series are (i) divergent (ii) convergent

(i)
1 + 4 + 16 + 64 + - - - - - - - - (ii)

63

3 3 3
------2 4 8

Chapter 2

Q.4
Q.5
Q.6

56

(iii)
6 + 12 + 24 + 48 + - - - - - - - - Find the fractions equivalent to the recurring decimals.
2.43
0.36
0.836
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
Find the sum to infinity of the series 1 + (1 + k)r + 1 + k + k2)r2 +
(1 + k + k2 + k3)r3 + - - - - - - - r and k being proper fraction.
If y = x + x2 + x3 + - - - - - - - and if x is positive and less than
unity show that x =

Q.7

Sequence and series

y
1+y

What distance a ball travel before coming to rest if it is dropped

from a height of 6 dm and after each fall it rebounds

Q.8

2
of the
3

distance it fell.
The sum of an infinite geometric series in 15 and the sum of the
squares of its terms is 45. Find the series.

Answers 2.7
1
4

Q.1

(i)

S =

Q.2
Q.3

(i)
(i)

9
Divergent

Q.4

(i)

Q.5

4
11
1
(1 r)(1 Kr)

Q.7

30 dm.

Q.8

(ii) S =

2 2
2 1

(ii)
(ii)

12
Convergent

(ii)

241
99

10 20

------5
9

(iii)

Divergent

(iii)

5
6

Chapter 2

57

Sequence and series

Summary
1.
2.

nth term of General Term of an Arithmetic progression.

an = a + (n 1)d
Arithmetic means between a and b
A=

3.

Sum of the First n terms of an arithmetic series.

(i)
(ii)

4.
5.
6.

a+b
2
n
[2a + (n 1)d]
2
n
Sn = (a + l) when last term is given.
2
Sn =

General or nth term of a G.P

an = arn-1
Geometric means between a and b
G = ab
Sum of n terms of a Geometric Series

a(1 r n )
if r < 1
1 r
a(r n 1)
Sn =
if r > 1
r 1
Sn =

7.

Sum of an infinite Geometric Series

S =

a
1 r

Chapter 2

58

Sequence and series

Short questions
Write the short answers of the following
Q.1:

Define a sequence.

Q.2:

Define finite sequence.

Q.3:

Define infinite sequence.

Q.4:

Define common difference.

Q.5:

Write the nth term of arithmetic progression.

Q.6:

Find the 7th term of A.P. in which the first term is 7 and the
common difference is 3.

Q.7:

Find the 7th term of an AP 1, 4, 7, ..

Q.8:

Find the sequence whose general term in 4n +1.

Q.9:

Define a series.

Q.10: Write the formula to find the sum of n term of an arithmetic

sequence.
Q.11: Find the sum of the series 3 + 11 + 19 + to 16 terms.
Q.12: Find the sum of the series 5 + 8 + 11 + 14 + .to n terms.
Q.13: Define arithmetic means (AMs).
Q.14: Find the A.M. between 5 4 and 5 + 4.
Q.15: Define a common ratio.
Q.16: Write the nth term of a geometric progressions .
Q.17: Find the term indicated in the following G.P. 1, 33, 36,
6th terms.
Q.18: write down the geometric sequence in which first term is 2 and the
second term is 6 and n = 5.
Q.19: Write the formula of sum of the first n terms of an geometric
sequence for | r | < 1 and for | r | > 1
Q.20: Define geometric means.
4
Q.21: Find the G.M. between (i) 8 and 72 (ii) 3 , 243.
Q.22: Sum to 5 term the series 1 + 3 +9 + .
1 1
Q.23: Find the sum of the following series: 1 + 3 + 9 + to 6 terms.
1
Q.24: Find the sum of infinite geometric series in which a=128, r = 2

Chapter 2

59

Sequence and series

Q.25: Find the sum of following

2+ 2 + 1 + .

infinite

geometric

series

Answers
Q6

a7 = - 11

Q7 a7 = 19

Q8

Q11

1008

Q12

Q17

(27)5

Q18 2 , -6 , 18 , -54 , 162

Q22

121

Q23

n
[7 + 3n]
2
364
243

5 , 9 , 13,

Q14 5

Q24

Q21 (i) 24 (ii) 9

256
3

Q25

4
2- 2

Chapter 2

60

Sequence and series

Objective Type Questions

Q.1
__1.

__2.
__3.

__4.
__5.

Each questions has four possible answers. Choose the correct

answer and encircle it.
The nth term of an A.P. whose 1st term is a and common
difference is d is:
(a)
2a + (n + 1)d
(b)
a + (n + 1)d
(c)
a + (n 1)d
(d)
a + (d 1)n
The nth term of an A.P. 1, 4, 7, is:
(a)
17
(b)
19
(c)
21
(d)
23
If a, b, c are in A.P. then:
(a)

ba=cb

(b)

(c)

a+b=b+c

(d)

The 10th term is 7, 17, 27, is:

(a)
97
(b)
98
(c)
99
(d)
100
The sum of n terms of an A.P. with a as 1st term and d as
common difference is:

n
[2a + (n 1)d]
2
n
(c)
(d)
[2a (n 1)d]
2
Arithmetic mean between x 3 and x+ 3 is:

(a)

__6.
__7.
__8.

b c

a b
a b

c a

n
[a + (n 1)d]
2
n
[a + (n + 1)d]
2

(b)

(a)
x
(b)
2x
(c)
3
(d)
2
If Sn = (n + n + 1) then its 4th term will be:
(a)
21
(b)
40
(c)
41
(d)
Arithmetic mean between 7 and 7 is:
(a)

7
2

(b)

7
2

(c)

(d)

3
101
14

The sum of the series 1 + 2 + 3 + + 100 is:

(a)
100
(b)
5000 (c)
5050 (d)
2
__10. The nth term of a G.P a, ar, ar , is:

500

1 n-1
r (d)
a

arn-1

__9.

(a)

ar2

(b)

arn+1

(c)

1 1
2 4
1

(c)
8

__11. The 5th term of a G.P 1, , , is:

(a)

1
8

(b)

1
16

(d)

1
32

Chapter 2

61

Sequence and series

__12. The 6th term of G.P 1, 2, 4 , is:

__13.
__14.
__15.
__16.

4 2 (b)
2 (d)
(a)
4
(c)
The G.M. between a and b is:
ab (d)
(a)
ab
(c)
ab (b)
If x, y, z are in G.P. then:
(a) 2y = x + z
(b) 2y = xz
(c) y2 = xz
Geometric mean between 3 and 27 is:
(a)
12
(c)
15
(d)
9 (b)
The sum of n terms of a geometric series:
a+ ar + ar2 + ; |r| < 1

ar n-1
r 1
ar n+1
1 r

(a)
(c)

ab
z2 = xy

(d)

a(1 r n )
1 r
a(r n 1)
1 r

(b)
(d)

__17. The sum of 6 terms of the series 1 + 2 + 4 + is:

(a)
63
(b)
64
(c)
65
(d)
66
__18. The sum of 5 terms of the series 1 2 + 4 :
(a)
16
(b)
11
(c)
11
(d)
16
__19. The sum of infinite terms of a G.P. a, ar1, ar12, if |r| < 1 is:
(a)

a
1 r

(b)

(c)

arn-1

a(1 r n )
1 r

(d)

None of these

1 1
is:
3 9
3
3

(d)
2
2

__20. The sum of infinite geometric series 1

2
3

(a)

(b)

2
3

(c)

Answers
1.
6.
11.
16.

c
a
c
b

2.
7.
12.
17.

b
a
a
a

3.
8.
13.
18.

a
c
c
b

4.
9.
14.
19.

a
c
c
a

5.
10.
15.
20.

b
d
d
c