Sequences and Series CH 09 (11C)

MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 353 Monday, October 15, 2001 7:06 AM
Sequences and
series
9
syllabus ref
efer
erence
ence
Core topic:
Structures and patterns
In this chapter
9A Recognising arithmetic
sequences
9B Finding the terms of an
arithmetic sequence
9C The sum of a given number of
terms of an arithmetic sequence
9D Recognising geometric
sequences
9E Finding the terms of a
geometric sequence
9F The sum of a given number of
terms of a geometric sequence
9G Applications of geometric
sequences
9H Finding the sum of an infinite
geometric sequence
9I Contrasting arithmetic and
geometric sequences through
graphs
MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 354 Thursday, October 11, 2001 7:00 AM
354
M a t h s Q u e s t M a t h s C Ye a r 1 1 f o r Q u e e n s l a n d
Introduction
Discovered in 1980 by Benoit Mandelbrot, the Mandelbrot Set (see the image on the
previous page) is one of the most intricate and beautiful geometrical patterns in mathematics. The Mandelbrot Set is an image that captures many of the qualities people find
fascinating about mathematics. Although it is generated by repeating a simple formula,
its patterns are infinitely complex. If you select any portion of the Mandelbrot Set and
magnify it you will see that no detail is lost the magnified shape is as intricate and
even contains parts that look like copies of the original. This notion of worlds within
worlds appeals to the philosopher in all of us.
How is the Mandelbrot Set created? Using some of the concepts developed in the
following sections we will see how a computer or a graphics calculator can produce
this fascinating image.
For this chapter your graphics calculator
will need to be set in sequence mode.
For the TI-83 graphics calculator, complete
the following steps.
1. Press MODE , select Seq in the 4th row
and press ENTER .
2. Select the Dot option (in the 5th row)
in MODE also.
Recognising arithmetic sequences

A sequence in mathematics is an ordered set of numbers.
An arithmetic sequence is one in which:
1. the difference between any two successive terms is the same
2. the next term in the sequence is found by adding the same number.
Consider the arithmetic sequence:
4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22.
The difference between each successive term is +3, or similarly, the next term is found
by adding 3 to the previous term. We can see that a positive common difference gives a
sequence that is increasing. We say that the common difference is +3, stated as d = +3.
+3
+3
4
+3
10
+3
13
+3
16
+3
19
22
The first term of the sequence is 4. We refer to the first term of a sequence as a. So
in this example, a = 4.
In the arithmetic sequence above, the first term is 4, the second term is 7, the third
term is 10 and so on. Another way of writing this is:
t1 = 4, t2 = 7 and t3 = 10.
There are 7 terms in this sequence. Because there is a countable number of terms in
the sequence, it is referred to as a finite sequence.
Chapter 9 Sequences and series
355
The arithmetic sequence below

7
7
37,
7
23,
30,
7
16,
9...
is an infinite sequence since it continues endlessly as indicated by the dots. The first
term, a, is 37 and the common difference, d, is 7. We can see that a negative common
difference gives a sequence that is decreasing.
1. An arithmetic sequence is a sequence of numbers for which the difference
between successive terms is the same.
2. The first term of an arithmetic sequence is referred to as a.
3. The common difference between successive terms is referred to as d.
4. tn is the term number, for example, t6 refers to the 6th term in the sequence.
WORKED Example 1
Which of the following are arithmetic sequences?
a 7, 13, 19, 25, 31, . . .
b 81, 94, 106, 120, 133, . . .
c 1.3, 2.5, 3.7, 4.9, 6.3, . . .
1
1
1
d 1 --2- , 1, --2- , 0, --2- , . . .
THINK
WRITE
a 7, 13, 19, 25, 31, . . .

t2 t1 = 13 7
=6
t3 t2 = 19 13
=6
t4 t3 = 25 19
=6
t5 t4 = 31 25
=6
There is a common difference of 6,
therefore d = 6.
This is an arithmetic sequence.
1
2
Write the sequence.

Calculate the difference between the
first term, t1 and the second term, t2.

second term, t2 and the third term, t3.

third term, t3 and the fourth term, t4.
Calculate the difference between t5

and t4.
Check that the differences are the same

and write your answer.
Write the sequence.

first term, t1 and the second term, t2.
2
3

second term, t2 and the third term, t3.
There is no need to do any further

checks as the two differences are not
the same.
b 81, 94, 106, 120, 133, . . .

t2 t1 = 94 (81)
= 13
t3 t2 = 106 (94)
= 12
There is no common difference.
This is not an arithmetic sequence.
Continued over page
356
THINK
WRITE
c 1.3, 2.5, 3.7, 4.9, 6.3, . . .
Write the sequence.
Calculate the difference between t2 and t1.
2.5 1.3 = 1.2
3.7 2.5 = 1.2
4.9 3.7 = 1.2
6.3 4.9 = 1.4
Check that the differences are the same.
There is no common difference.

This is not an arithmetic sequence.
Write the sequence.
Check that the differences are the same.
d 1 1--2- , 1, 1--2- , 0, 1--2- , . . .

1 (1 1--2- ) =
1--2- (1) =
0 ( 1--2- ) =
1
--2
0=
1
--2
1
--2
1
--2
1
--2
There is a common difference of 1--2- .

This is an arithmetic sequence.
WORKED Example 2
Write down the value of a and d for each of the following arithmetic sequences.
a 1.2, 3.6, 6, 8.4, 10.8, . . .
2
b 1 --5- , --5- , --5- , 1 --5- , 2 --5- , . . .

THINK
a
Write the sequence.

a 1.2, 3.6, 6, 8.4, 10.8, . . .
What is the first term?
a = 1.2
t2 t1 = 3.6 1.2
What is the difference between t2 and t1?
You need check only once as the question
= +2.4
states that this is an arithmetic sequence.
d = +2.4
Write your answer.
The arithmetic sequence has a first term,
a, of 1.2 and a common difference, d, of
+2.4.
Write the sequence.
b 1 2--5- , 2--5- , 3--5- , 1 3--5- , 2 3--5- , . . .
What is the first term?
a = 1 2--5-
What is the difference between t2

and t1?
Write your answer.
t2 t1 = 2--5- (1 2--5- )
= +1
d = +1
The arithmetic sequence has a first term,
1
2
3
WRITE
a, of 1 2--5- and a common difference, d,

of +1.
357
remember
remember
1. In an arithmetic sequence:
(a) the first term is a
(b) the common difference is d.
2. Given an unspecified sequence, establish whether it is arithmetic by testing all
terms for a common difference: d = t2 t1 = t3 t2 = t4 t3 = . . .
9A
WORKED
Example
WORKED
Example
1 State which of the following are arithmetic sequences.

a 2, 7, 12, 17, 22, . . . b 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, . . .
c 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, . . .
d 3, 7, 11, 15, 20, . . . e 4, 8, 11, 15, 19, . . . f 3, 30, 300, 3000, 30 000, . . . Recognising
arithmetic
g 1, 1, 2, 4, 8, . . .
h 2, 2, 4, 4, 8, . . .
i 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, . . .
sequences
j 0, 100, 200, 300, 400, . . .
2 For those arithmetic sequences found in question 1, write down the values of a and d.
2
WORKED
Example
1b

a 123, 23, 77, 177, 277, . . .
b 1, 3, 1, 5, 3, . . .
c 7, 1, 5, 11, 17, . . .
d 67, 27, 13, 53, 93, . . .
e 5, 2, 9, 16, 23, . . .
f 7, 18, 29, 30, 39, . . .
g 1, 0, 1, 3, 5, . . .
h 0, 10, 21, 32, 43, . . .
i 2, 0, 2, 4, 6, . . .
j 110, 120, 100, 130, 90, . . .
WORKED
Example
1c

a 0.7, 1, 1.3, 1.6, 1.9, . . .
b 2.3, 3.2, 5.2, 6.2, 7.2, . . .
c 6.2, 9.3, 12.4, 15.5, 16.6, . . .
d 14.1, 28.2, 42.3, 56.4, 70.5, . . .
e 3.5, 2, 0.5, 1, 2.5, . . .
f 2.7, 2.5, 1.7, 1.5, 0.7, . . .
g 4.3, 2.1, 0.1, 2.3, 4.5, . . .
h 1, 0.3, 1.6, 2.9, 4.2, . . .
i 2, 0.1, 2.1, 3.3, 4.5, . . .
j 5.2, 6, 6.8, 7.6, 8.4, . . .
WORKED
Example
1d

a
1
--- ,
2
1 1 1 1 1
--- , --- , --- , --- , --- ,
2 3 4 5 6
1 3
--- , --- ,
5 5
1 1--2- , 2 1--2- , 3 1--2- , 4 1--2- , . . .

...
1, 1 2--5- , 1 4--5- , . . .
g 1 1--3- , 2--3- , 0, 2--3- , 1 1--3- , . . .

i
1
--- ,
3
1--3- , 1, 1 1--3- , 2, . . .
1 3
--- , --- ,
4 4
4 5 6 7
--- , --- , --- , --- ,
8 8 8 8
3--4- , 0, 3--4- , 1 1--2- , 2 1--4- , . . .
1 1--4- , 1 3--4- , 2 1--4- , . . .

1, . . .
h 4--5- , 2--5- , 0, 3--5- , 1, . . .

j
1
-, ...
1--2- , 1--4- , 1--6- , 1--8- , ----10
Math
cad
1a
Recognising arithmetic
sequences
358
9 State which of the following

situations are arithmetic
sequences.
a A teacher hands out 2
lollies to the first student,
4 lollies to the second
student, 6 lollies to the
third student and 8 lollies
to the fourth student.
b The
sequence
of
numbers after rolling a
die 8 times.
c The number of layers of
paper after each folding in half of a large sheet of paper.
d The house numbers on the same side of a street on a newspaper delivery route.
e The cumulative total of the number of seats in the first ten rows in a regular cinema
(for example, with 8 seats in each row, so there are 8 seats after the first row, 16
seats after the first 2 rows, and so on).
10 For those arithmetic sequences found in question 9, where appropriate information is
given, write down the value of a and d.
11 For the following arithmetic sequences:
a 4, 13, 22, 31, . . . which term, tn, will be equal to 58?
b 9, 4.5, 0, . . . which term, tn, will be equal to 18?
c 60, 49, 38, . . . which term, tn, will be the first to be greater than 10?
d 100, 87, 74, . . . which term, tn, will be the first to be less than 58?
12 Jenny receives 5 dollars for completing the first kilometre of a walkathon and
7 dollars more for completing each subsequent kilometre. Write the arithmetic
sequence that represents the amount received by Jenny for each kilometre walked
from 1 to 10 kilometres.
13 Each week, Johnny buys a pack of 9 basketball cards. In the first week Johnny has
212 cards in his collection. Give the total number of cards Johnny has for each of the
first five weeks.
14 multiple choice
Which of the following could be the first five terms of an arithmetic sequence?
A 1, 3, 9, 12, 15, . . .
B 266, 176, 86, 4, 94, . . .
C 3, 3, 6, 6, 9, . . .
D 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, . . .
E 3, 1, 0, 1, 3, . . .
15 multiple choice
3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 38
For the arithmetic sequence above, it is true to say that it is:
A an infinite sequence with a = 3 and d = 7
B an infinite sequence with a = 7 and d = 3
C an infinite sequence with t2 = 10 and d = 7
D a finite sequence with a = 3 and d = 7
E a finite sequence with a = 7 and d = 3.
359
Finding the terms of an arithmetic

sequence
Consider the arithmetic sequence for which a = 8 and d = 10.
+10
+10
8
18
+10
28
+10
38
48
t1 = a
t1 = 8
t2 = 8 + 10
t2 = a + d
t2 = a + 1d
t3 = 8 + 10 + 10
t3 = a + d + d
t3 = a + 2d
t4 = 8 + 10 + 10 + 10
t4 = a + d + d + d
t4 = a + 3d
t5 = 8 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 10
t5 = a + d + d + d + d
t5 = a + 4d
We notice a pattern emerging. That pattern can be described by the equation:
tn = 8 + (n 1) 10
where n represents the number of the term.
For example, if n = 4, then the fourth term is:
t4 = 8 + (4 1) 10
t4 = 8 + 3 10
t4 = 38
Therefore, the 4th term is 38.
We can generalise this rule for all arithmetic sequences.
Now,
where
tn = a + (n 1)d
tn is the nth term
a is the first term
d is the common difference.
This rule enables us to find any term of an arithmetic sequence provided we know the
value of a and d.
WORKED Example 3
Find the 20th term of the following arithmetic sequence.
5, 40, 75, 110, 145, . . .
THINK
1
2
WRITE
Find the value of a.

Find the value of d. You need to
calculate only one difference as the
question states that it is an arithmetic
sequence.
Use the rule tn = a + (n 1)d where n is
20 for the 20th term.
Write the answer.
a=5
d = t2 t1
= 40 5
= 35
t20 = 5 + (20 1) 35
t20 = 5 + 19 35
t20 = 670
The 20th term is 670.
If we are given only two terms of an arithmetic sequence, we are able to use the rule
tn = a + (n 1)d to set up two simultaneous equations to find the value of a and d and
hence write down the rule for the arithmetic sequence.
360
WORKED Example 4
The third term of an arithmetic sequence is 1 and the fifth term is 11.
a Write down the rule for the arithmetic sequence.
b Find the 50th term of the sequence.
THINK
WRITE
a 1 We know that t3 = 1 and that
a t3 = a + 2d = 1
tn = a + (n 1)d.
2 We know that t5 = 11 and that
t5 = a + 4d = 11
tn = a + (n 1)d.
Solve
the
2
equations
simultaneously
a + 2d = 1
3
using the elimination technique.
a + 4d = 11
Eliminate a, by subtracting equation [1]
2d = 12
from equation [2].
d=6
Substituting d = 6 into [1]:
4 Evaluate a by substituting d = 6 into
either of the two equations.
a + 12 = 1
a = 13
To
find
the
rule,
substitute
values
for
a
=
13
+ (n 1) 6
t
5
n
and d into tn = a + (n 1) d.
tn = 13 + 6n 6
tn = 19 + 6n
b 1 To find the 50th term or t50, substitute
b tn = 19 + 6n
n = 50 into the rule.
t50 = 19 + 6 50
= 19 + 300
= 281
2 Write your answer.
[1]
[2]
[2] [1]
WORKED Example 5
If the first three terms of an arithmetic sequence are 5.2, 7.4 and 9.6, which term is equal
to 53.6?
THINK
WRITE
a = 5.2
1 Substitute the values of a and d into
tn = a + (n 1)d.
d = t2 t1
= 7.4 5.2
= 2.2
tn = 5.2 + (n 1) 2.2
= 5.2 + 2.2n 2.2
= 3 + 2.2n
53.6 = 3 + 2.2n
2 Which term is equal to 53.6?
50.6
n = ---------2.2
n = 23
The term 53.6 is the 23rd term.
361
WORKED Example 6
An ant colony is studied and found to have a population of 10 000 in the first week of the
study. The population increases by 500 each week after that.
a Write down a rule for the number of ants in the colony in week n of the study.
b When will the ant population double in size?
THINK
a
1
2
WRITE
We know that a = 10 000 and d = 500

and that tn = a + (n 1)d.
Substitute and simplify.
Using the rule found, we need to find
which term is equal to 10 000 doubled
or tn = 20 000.
Write your answer.
a tn = 10 000 + (n 1) 500
= 10 000 + 500n 500
tn = 9500 + 500n
b
tn = 9500 + 500n
20 000 = 9500 + 500n
10 500 = 500n
10 500
n = ---------------500
n = 21
The ant population will double to 20 000
in the 21st week.
Graphics Calculator tip! Listing the terms of an arithmetic

sequence
1. Press MODE and ensure Seq is highlighted in the
4th row.
2. Press Y= and enter the rule for the nth term as
A + (n 1)D, then press 2nd [QUIT] .
3. Store values to A and D. For example, if a = 2 and
d = 5, [that is tn = 2 + 5(n 1)] press 2 STO
ALPHA [A] ENTER then 5 STO ALPHA [D]
ENTER .
4. Press 2nd [u] and (within parentheses) enter the
term numbers for the first and last terms, then press
ENTER . In the screen opposite, the first five terms
have been displayed.
remember
remember
To find the term of an arithmetic sequence use the following formula:
tn = a + (n 1) d
where tn is the nth term
a is the first term
d is the common difference.
362
9B
d
hca
WORKED
Mat
Example
Finding
terms of an
arithmetic
sequence
GC pr
ogram
Arithmetic
series
WORKED
Example
WORKED
Example
WORKED
Example
Finding the terms of an

arithmetic sequence
1 For each of the arithmetic sequences given, find:

a the 25th term of the sequence 2, 7, 12, 17, 22, . . .
b the 19th term of the sequence 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, . . .
c the 30th term of the sequence 0, 100, 200, 300, 400, . . .
d the 27th term of the sequence 7, 1, 5, 11, 17, . . .
e the 33rd term of the sequence 5, 2, 9, 16, 23, . . .
f the 39th term of the sequence 14.1, 28.2, 42.3, 56.4, 70.5, . . .
2 Evaluate the following.
a The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 13 and the 5th term is 31. What is the
17th term of this sequence?
b The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 23 and the 5th term is 277. What is the
c The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 0 and the 6th term is 8. What is the
32nd term of this sequence?
d The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 5 and the 7th term is 19. What is the
e The 4th term of an arithmetic sequence is 2 and the 9th term is 33. What is the
a The first 3 terms of an arithmetic sequence are 3, 9 and 15. Which term is equal to
141?
b The first 3 terms of an arithmetic sequence are 9,
6 and 3. Which term is equal to 72?
c The first 3 terms of an arithmetic sequence are 1.7,
2.5 and 3.3. Which term is equal to 28.1?
d The first 3 terms of an arithmetic sequence are 5, 4
and 3. Which term is equal to 21?
e The first 3 terms of an arithmetic sequence are
1.5, 2 and 2.5. Which term is equal to 140.5?
f The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 17 and
the 5th term is 41. Which term of the sequence is
equal to 201?
4 A batsman made 23 runs in his first innings, 33 in his
second and 43 in his third. If he continued to add 10
runs each innings, write down a rule for the number of
runs he would have made in his nth innings.
363
5 In a vineyard, rows of wire fences are built

to support the vines. The length of the
fence in row 1 is 40 m, the length of the
fence in row 2 is 43 m, and the length of
the fence in row 3 is 46 m. If the lengths of
the fences continue in this pattern, write
down a rule for the length of a fence in
row number n.
6 A marker is placed 15 m from a white line by a P.E. teacher. The next marker is
placed 25 m from the white line and the next 35 m from the white line. The teacher
continues placing markers in this pattern.
a Write down a rule for the distance of marker n from the white line.
b How many markers will need to be placed before the last marker is at least 100
metres from the line?
7 multiple choice
The 41st term of the arithmetic sequence 4.3, 2.1, 0.1, 2.3, 4.5, . . . is:
A 83.7
B 85.9
C 92.3
D 172.4
E 178.5
8 multiple choice
The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 2 and the 5th term is 2.5. The 27th term
of this sequence is:
A 32.5
B 35.5
C 42.5
D 89.5
E 96
9 multiple choice
The numbers 8, 1 and 6 form the first three terms of an arithmetic sequence. In this
arithmetic sequence the term which is equal to 258 is the:
A 30th
B 32nd
C 37th
D 39th
E 42nd
10 Find the 28th term of the arithmetic sequence 5.2, 6, 6.8, 7.6, 8.4, . . .
11 Find the 31st term of the arithmetic sequence 1--5- , 3--5- , 1, 1 2--5- , 1 4--5- , . . .
12 Find the 23rd term of the arithmetic sequence 1 1--3- , 2--3- , 0, 2--3- , 1 1--3- , . . .
13 The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 16 and the 5th term is 4.2. What is the
14 The 4th term of an arithmetic sequence is 3 1--2- and the 7th term is 6 1--2- . What is the
15 The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is
3
--4
and the 6th term is 2 3--4- . What is the
16 The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 0 and the 5th term is 2 1--4- . What is the
17 The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 15 and the 8th term is 45. Which term of
the sequence is equal to 183?
18 The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 1 and the 6th term is 15. Which term of
364
19 multiple choice
The 3rd term of a sequence is 1 and the fifth is 14. The term which is equal to
141.5 is the:
A 9th
B 11th
C 18th
D 20th
E 22nd
20 The 4th term of an arithmetic sequence is 26 and the 7th term is 47. Which term of
21 The 5th term of an arithmetic sequence is 0.3 and the 8th term is 3.3. Which term of
the sequence is equal to 47.7?
22 Peter plants his first tomato seedling 0.5 m from the fence, the next 1.3 m from the
fence and the next 2.1 m from the fence. If he continues to plant in this pattern, how
far will the 14th seedling be from the fence?
23 Olivia began her china collection in 1951.
She was given 3 pieces of china that year
and added 2 pieces each year after that.
How many pieces would Olivia have in
her collection in the year 2000?
24 The membership of a local photography
club was 7 in its first year. If the club
added 4 members to its membership each
year, write down a rule for the number of
members in the club in year n.
25 The first fence post in a fence is 12 m from the road, the next is 15.5 m from the road
and the next is 19 m from the road. The remainder of the fence posts are spaced in this
pattern.
a Write down a rule for the distance of fence post n from the road.
b If 100 posts are to be erected, how far will the last post be from the road?
The sum of a given number of terms of

an arithmetic sequence
When the terms of an arithmetic sequence are added together, an arithmetic series is
formed.
So, 5, 9, 13, 17, 21, . . . is an arithmetic sequence
whereas 5 + 9 + 13 + 17 + 21 + . . . is an arithmetic series.
The sum of n terms of an arithmetic sequence is given by Sn.
Consider the finite arithmetic sequence below.
5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50
The sum of this arithmetic sequence is given by S10 since there are 10 terms in the sequence.
So,
S10 = 5 + 10 + 15 + 20 + 25 + 30 + 35 + 40 + 45 + 50
= 275
Note that the sum of the first and last terms is 55. Also, the sum of the second and
second last terms is 55. Similarly, the sum of the third and third last term is 55. This
pattern continues with the fourth and fourth last terms as well as with the fifth and fifth
last terms. There are in fact five lots of 55.
365
We can formalise this pattern to obtain a rule which applies to all arithmetic sequences.
Let Sn = a + (a + d) + (a + 2d) + . . . + (l 2d) + (l d) + l
where l is the last term of the sequence.
By reversing the order of the series above, we obtain
Sn = l + (l d) + (l 2d) + . . . + (a + 2d) + (a + d) + a.
By adding these two equations, we obtain
2Sn = (a + l) + (a + d + l d) + (a + 2d + l 2d) + . . . (a + l) + (a + l) + (a + l)
2Sn = (a + l) + (a + l) + (a + l) + . . . (a + l) + (a + l) + (a + l)
2Sn = n(a + l) where n represents the number of terms in the sequence.
So, S n = 1--2- n ( a + l ) .
The sum of n terms of an arithmetic sequence with a as its first term and l as its
last term is given by
n
S n = --2- ( a + l ) .
Now we know that the nth term of an arithmetic sequence is given by
t n = a + ( n 1 )d .
So, for the sum of n terms, l is the last term; that is, tn = l.
So, the last term is l = a + (n 1)d.
n
n
Substituting this into Sn = --- ( a + l ) we obtain Sn = --- { a + [ a + ( n 1 )d ] }
2
2
n
= --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] .
2
An alternative formula for the sum of n terms of an arithmetic sequence when the
value of a and d are known is given by
n
S n = --2- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] .
WORKED Example 7
Find the sum of the first ten given terms of the arithmetic sequence 4, 10, 16, 22, 28, 34, 40,
46, 52, 58.
THINK
WRITE
Method 1
a=4
1 We know the values of the first and last
term and that there are ten terms in the
l = 58
series.
n = 10
n
n
Sn = --- ( a + l )
2 Use the series formula Sn = --- ( a + l ) .
2
2
10
= ------ ( 4 + 58 )
2
= 5 62
= 310
Continued over page
366
THINK
Method 2 (alternative)
1 We know the value of a and d and n.
WRITE
n
Use the formula Sn = --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] .
2
a=4
d = 10 4 = 6
n = 10
n
Sn = --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ]
2
Write the answer.
10
S10 = ------ [ 2 4 + ( 10 1 )6 ]
2
S20 = 5[8 + 9 6]
= 5[8 + 54]
= 5 62
= 310
The sum of the first 10 terms is 310.
the sum of an arithmetic

Graphics Calculator tip! Finding
sequence
Use the same method as for listing the terms of an
arithmetic sequence (see page 361) except that
step 4 is:
Press 2nd [LIST], select MATH and 5: SUM
then press 2nd [u] and enter the term numbers
for the first term and last terms; then press ENTER .
WORKED Example 8
The first term of an arithmetic sequence is 5 and the 7th is 29. What is the sum of the first
10 terms of this sequence?
THINK
1
Find the value of a and d.

The value of a is given.
To find the common difference,
d, use the formula
t n = a + ( n 1 )d , as we
know the value of the 7th term
is 29.
Use the formula

n
Sn = --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] .
2
Write your answer.
WRITE
a=5
tn = a + (n 1)d
t7 = 5 + 6 d
= 29
5 + 6d = 29
6d = 24
d=4
S10 =
10
------ [2
2
5 + (10 1)4]
S10 = 5[10 + 9 4]
= 230
If a = 5 and d = 4, the sum of the first ten terms is 230.
367
WORKED Example 9
The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 4 and the 8th is 11. What is the sum of the first
30 terms of the sequence?
THINK
1
Find out the value of a and d by setting

up two simultaneous equations using
t n = a + ( n 1 )d .
Eliminate a by subtracting equation 1
from equation 2.
n
Use the formula Sn = --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] .
2
Write your answer.
WRITE
t3 = a + 2d
=4
t8 = a + 7d
= 11
a + 2d = 4
a + 7d = 11
5d = 15
d = 3
Substitute d = 3 into equation [1].
a + 2d = 4
a + 2 3 = 4
a6=4
a = 10
S30 =
30
------ [2
2
[1]
[2]
[1]
[2]
[2] [1]
10 + (30 1)(3)]
S30 = 15[20 + 29 3]
S30 = 1005
If a = 10 and d = 3, the sum of the first 30
terms is 1005.
WORKED Example 10
The first term of a sequence is 7 and the sum of the first 25 terms is 1625. Find:
a the 25th term
b the first five terms of the sequence.
THINK
a
We know a = 7 and S25 = 1625 and

the 25th term is the last term, l.
n
Use the formula Sn = --- ( a + l ) .
2
WRITE/DISPLAY
a
S25 =
25
------ (7
2
+ l)
= 1625
12.5(7 + l) = 1625
7 + l =
1625
-----------12.5
7 + l = 130
l = 137
Write your answer.
l = t25
l = 137
Continued over page
368
THINK
WRITE/DISPLAY
To find the common difference, d,

n
we can use Sn = --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] or
2
t n = a + ( n 1 )d having found that
the 25th term is 137.
We know that a = 7 and d = +6.

Enter the first term and press
ENTER . Add the common
difference and then press
ENTER for each of the
successive terms.
------ [14 + (25 1)d]

S25 = 25
2
= 1625
12.5 [14 + 24d] = 1625
14 + 24d = 130
24d = 144
d = +6
or tn = a + (n 1)d
t25 = 137
137 = 7 + (25 1)d
144 = 24d
d = +6
The sequence is 7, 1, 5, 11, 17, . . .
remember
remember
1. A series is the sum of terms in a sequence.
2. Sn is the sum of the first n terms in a series; for example, S25 represents the sum
of the first 25 terms.
3. Given the number of terms in a series, n, the first term, a, and the last term, l,
n
use Sn = --- ( a + l ) .
2
4. Given the number of terms in a series, n, the first term, a, and the common
n
difference, d, use Sn = --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] .
2
9C
Mat
d
hca
Sum of
terms
WORKED
in an
Example
arithmetic
7
sequence
GC pr
ogram
Arithmetic
series
The sum of a given number of

terms of an arithmetic
sequence
1 For each of the given series, find:

a the sum of the first 20 terms of the sequence 3, 7, 11, 15, 19, . . .
b the sum of the first 35 terms of the sequence 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, . . .
c the sum of the first 15 terms of the sequence 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, . . .
d the sum of the first 34 terms of the sequence 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, . . .
e the sum of the first 23 terms of the sequence 4, 1, 2, 5, 8, . . .
f the sum of the first 29 terms of the sequence 10, 7, 4, 1, 2, . . .
WORKED
Example
369
2 The first term of an arithmetic sequence is 5 and the 2nd is 9. Find the sum of the first
40 terms of the sequence.
3 The first term of an arithmetic sequence is 0.7 and the 2nd is 1. Find the sum of the
first 25 terms of the sequence.
4 The first term of an arithmetic sequence is 7 and the 2nd is 1. Find the sum of the
WORKED
Example
WORKED
Example
10
5 For each of the following, evaluate the sum of a series, Sn.

a The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 19 and the 4th is 25. Find the sum of the
b The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 3.6 and the 5th is 10.8. Find the sum of
the first 23 terms of the sequence.
c The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 0.5 and the 6th is 4. Find the sum of
d The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 0.75 and the 5th is 2.25. Find the sum
of the first 27 terms of the sequence.
6 The 1st term of an arithmetic sequence is 2 and the sum of the first 19 terms of the
sequence is 551. Find:
a the 19th term
b the first 3 terms of the sequence.
7 The 1st term of an arithmetic sequence is 4 and the sum of the first 30 terms of the
a the 30th term
8 multiple choice
The sum of the first 21 terms of the sequence, 0, 3 1--2- , 7, 10 1--2- , 14, . . . is:
A 1470
B 735
C 700
D 36.75
E 735
9 multiple choice
The first term of an arithmetic sequence is 5.2 and the 2nd is 6. The sum of the first
22 terms of the sequence is:
A 598.4
B 299.2
C 242
D 70.4
E 70.4
10 What is the sum of the first 19 terms of the sequence 180, 80, 20, 120, 220, . . . ?
11 What is the sum of the first 28 terms of the sequence 1--2- , 1--2- , 1 1--2- , 2 1--2- , . . . ?
12 What is the sum of the first 34 terms of the sequence 5 1--4- , 3 1--4- , 1 1--4- , 3--4- , 2 3--4- , . . . ?
13 The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 12 and the 8th is 37. Find the sum of the
14 The 2nd term of an arithmetic sequence is 28.2 and the 6th is 84.6. Find the sum of
15 The 1st term of an arithmetic sequence is 5.5 and the sum of the first 18 terms of this
sequence is 328.5. Find:
a the 18th term
370
16 The 1st term of an arithmetic sequence is 11 and the sum of the first 20 terms of this
a t20
17 The 1st term of an arithmetic sequence is 5 and the sum of the first 35 terms of this
sequence is 2257.5. Find:
a t35
18 Sam makes $100 profit in his first week of business. If his profit increases by $75 each
week, what would his profit be in total by the end of week 15?
19 Georges salary is to start at $36 000 a year and increase by $1200 each year after
that. How much will George have earned in total after 10 years?
20 A staircase is designed so that the height of each step increases by 0.8 cm for each
step. If the height of the first step is 15 cm, what is the total height of the first
17 steps?
21 Paula collects stamps. She bought 250 in the first month to start her collection and
added 15 stamps to the collection each month thereafter. How many stamps will she
have collected after 5 years?
22 Marina cuts thread for her embroidery in varying lengths. The first length she cuts is
10 cm, the next is 12 cm, the next 14 cm and so on in this pattern. If she cuts
13 pieces, how much thread will she have used?
23 Proceeds from the church fete were $3000 in 1981. In 1982 the proceeds were $3400
and in 1983 they were $3800. If they continued in this pattern:
a what were the proceeds from the year 2000 fete?
b how much in total would the proceeds from church fetes since 1981 have
amounted to in the year 2000?
Work
ET
SHE
9.1
24 Fees for groups meeting at the community centre rise by $5 each year. If the fees
started at $60 a year in the first year:
a how much will the fees be in the 20th year?
b how much would a group which had met at the centre for all of those 20 years
have paid in total?
Recognising geometric sequences

A sequence in mathematics is an ordered set of numbers. A geometric sequence is one
in which the first term is multiplied by a number, known as the common ratio, to create
the second term which is multiplied by the common ratio to create the third term, and
so on. The first term in a geometric sequence is referred to as a and the common ratio
is referred to as r.
Consider the geometric sequence where a = 1 and r = 3. The terms in the sequence are
3
3
1
3
9
3
27
81...
371
To discover the common ratio, r, of a geometric sequence you need to calculate the ratio
t3
t4
t2
of successive terms, namely ---- . You could alternatively calculate ---- or ---- and so on.
t1
t2
t3
A geometric sequence is a sequence of numbers for which the ratio of successive
terms is the same.
t
t
t
---2- = ---3- = ---4- = = common ratio
t1
t2
t3
The first term of a geometric sequence is referred to as a.
The common ratio between a term and its preceding term is referred to as r.
WORKED Example 11
Which of the following are geometric sequences?
a 2, 10, 50, 250, 1250, . . .
b 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
3 3 3
c 2, 6, 18, 54, 162, . . .
d 6, 3, --2- , --4- , --8- , . . .
THINK
WRITE
a 2, 10, 50, 250, 1250, . . .

t2
10
---- = -----t1
2
Write the sequence.
t2
Calculate the ratio of ---- .
t1
= 5
3
t3
t2
t3
50
---- = -----t2
10
t4
t3
= 5
t4
250
---- = --------t3
50
= 5
t5
t4
Check that all ratios are the same.
Write the sequence.
t2
t1
t3
t2
t4
t3
t5
1250
---- = -----------t4
250
= 5
There is a common ratio of 5.
This is a geometric sequence.
b 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
t2
8
---- = -----4
t1
= 2
t3
16
---- = -----t2
8
= 2
t4
32
---- = --------t3
16
= 2
Continued over page
372
THINK
t5
t4
Check that the ratios are the same.
Write the sequence.
t2
t1
t3
t2
There is no need to check any further

as the two ratios are not the same.
Write the sequence.
t2
Calculate ---- .
t1
t3
Calculate ---- .
t2
t4
Calculate ---- .
t3
t5
Calculate ---- .
t4
Check that all ratios are the same.
WRITE
t5
64
---- = --------t4
32
= 2
There is a common ratio of 2.
c 2, 6, 18, 54, 162, . . .
t2
6
---- = -----t1
2
= +3
t3
18
---- = -----t2
6
= 3
There is no common ratio.
This is not a geometric sequence.
d 6, 3, 3--2- , 3--4- , 3--8- , . . .
t2
---- =
t1
3
--6
1
--2
t
---3- =
t2
3
--2
3
--2
1
--2
t
---4- =
t3
3
--4
3
--4
2
--4
1
--2
t
---5- =
t4
3
--8
3
--8
1
--2
1
--3
3
--2
2
--3
3
--4
4
--3
There is a common ratio of 1--2- .

373
WORKED Example 12
Write down the value of a and r for each of the following geometric sequences.
a 1.2, 4.8, 19.2, 76.8, 307.2, . . .
9
-,
b 1, 3--4- , ----16
27
------ ,
64
81
-, ...
-------256
THINK
WRITE
a 1.2, 4.8, 19.2, 76.8, 307.2, . . .

a = 1.2
1
2
3
Write the sequence.

a is the first term.
t2
To find r use the ratio ---- or any other
t1
ratio.
t 2 4.8
---- = ---------t1
1.2
= 4 or
t 3 19.2
---- = ---------t 2 4.8
= 4
This is a geometric sequence with the first
term 1.2 and a common ratio of 4.
Write your answer.
Write the sequence.
a is the first term.
a = 1
t2
To find r use the ratio ---- or any other
t1
ratio.
--t2
4
---- = ----t 1 1
9
-,
b 1, 3--4- , ----16
27
------ ,
64
81
-, ...
-------256
= 3--4-
or
9
t 3 ----16
---- = -----3
t2
--4
9
-
= ----16
4
--3
= 3--44
Write your answer.
This is a geometric sequence with the first

term 1 and a common ratio of 3--4- .
remember
remember
1. In a geometric sequence:
(a) the first term is a,
t2
(b) the common ratio is r = ---- .
t1
2. Given an unspecified sequence, establish whether it is geometric by testing all
t3
t4
t2
terms for a common ratio, r = ---- = ---- = ---- =
t1
t2
t3
374
9D
d
hca
WORKED
Mat
Example
Recognising
geometric
sequences
11a
WORKED
Example
12
Recognising geometric
sequences
1 State which of the following are geometric sequences.

a 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
b 2, 6, 18, 54, 162, . . .
c 1, 4, 16, 64, 256, . . .
d 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, . . .
e 1, 5, 25, 100, 125, . . .
f 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, . . .
g 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, . . .
h 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, . . .
i 1, 100, 1000, 10 000, 100 000, . . .
j 0, 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
2 Look again at the geometric sequences found in question 1. Write down the values of
a and r.
3 State which of the following sequences are geometric sequences.
a 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
b 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, . . .
c 0, 3, 9, 27, 81, . . .
d 2, 6, 18, 54, 162, . . .
e 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
f 9, 3, 1, 3, 9, . . .
g 1, 5, 25, 125, 625, . . .
h 5, 20, 80, 320, 1280, . . .
i 3, 12, 48, 192, 768, . . .
j 8, 16, 32, 68, 136, . . .
4 For those geometric sequences found in question 3, write down the value of a and r.
WORKED
Example
11b

a 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, . . .
b 1, 3, 9, 27, 81, . . .
c 4, 12, 36, 108, 324, . . .
d 7, 7, 7, 7, 7, . . .
e 3, 6, 18, 54, 112, . . .
f 2, 8, 12, 24, 48, . . .
g 3, 9, 27, 81, 243, . . .
h 5, 15, 45, 135, 405, . . .
i 5, 50, 500, 5000, 50 000, . . .
j 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, . . .
WORKED
Example
11c

a 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, . . .
b 1, 5, 10, 20, 40, . . .
c 3, 15, 75, 375, 1875, . . .
d 10, 1, 0, 1, 10, . . .
e 0, 4, 16, 64, 256, . . .
f 6, 60, 600, 6000, 60 000, . . .
g 5, 15, 25, 45, 85, . . .
h 1, 5, 25, 125, 625, . . .
i 2, 22, 242, 2662, 29 282, . . .
j 3, 1, 3, 9, 27, . . .
a 1.2, 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, 19.2, . . .
b 2.3, 6.9, 13.8, 27.6, 55.2, . . .
c 2.25, 4.5, 9, 18, 36, . . .
d 7, 3.5, 1.75, 0.875, 0.4375, . . .
e 10, 12, 14.4, 17.28, 20.736, . . .
f 1.2, 3.6, 10.8, 21.6, 43.2, . . .
g 60, 36, 6, 1, 0.6, . . .
h 0, 1.3, 1.69, 2.197, 2.8561, . . .
i 8, 5.6, 3.92, 2.744, 1.9208, . . .
j 1, 1.5, 2.25, 3.375, 5.0625, . . .
MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 375 Wednesday, November 5, 2003 10:41 AM
375

1
1
1
1
1
- , ------ , . . .
- , ------ , ------ , . . .
a 1--2- , 1--4- , 1--8- , ----b 1--2- , 1--6- , ----11d
16 32
12 18 24
1
1
1
1
- , --------- , --------- , ------------ , . . .
c 1--4- , ----d 1--3- , 2--3- , 1 1--3- , 2 2--3- , 5 1--3- , . . .
20 100 500 2500
WORKED
Example
e
g
i
1 1
1
1
1
--- , ------ , ------ , ------ , ------ , . . .
5 10 15 20 25
1
1
1
- , ------ , --------- , . . .
0, 1--4- , ----16 64 256
1 1--4- , 1, 1 1--4- , 2 3--4- , 4 1--4- , . . .
1
-,
1, 1--3- , 1--9- , ----27
1
------ ,
81
...
h 2 1--4- , 1 1--2- , 1, 2--3- , 4--9- , . . .

j
8
--- ,
9
2--3- , 1--2- , 3--8- ,
9
------ ,
32
...
13 multiple choice
Which of the following is a geometric sequence?
A 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, . . .
B 0.002, 0.02, 0.2, 20, 200, . . .
C 9, 9, 3, 3, 1, . . .
D 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, . . .
E
1 1 1 1 1 1
--- , --- , --- , --- , --- , --- ,
8 7 6 6 5 4
...
14 multiple choice
There is a geometric sequence for which a is positive and r = 2. It is true to say that:
A only one term of the sequence is a positive number
B the 3rd term will be a negative number
C the 3rd term will be less than the 2nd term
D the 5th term would be greater than the 6th term
E the 4th term would be greater than the 3rd term.
15 multiple choice
There is a geometric sequence for which every term is negative. It could be said with
certainty that:
A a and r are both positive
B a and r are both negative
C a is positive and r is negative
D a is negative and r is positive
E a is greater than r.
16 multiple choice
There is a geometric sequence for which every odd-numbered term is positive and
every even-numbered term is negative. It could be said with certainty that:
A a and r are both positive
B a and r are both negative
C a is positive and r is negative
D a is negative and r is positive
E a is less than r.
17 A savings account balance at the end of each of the past four years is given is follows:
$100.00, $110.00, $121.00, $133.10.
a Prove this is a geometric sequence.
b State the value of a and r.
376
18 On the first day Jenny hears a rumour. On the second day, she tells
two friends. On the third day, each of these two friends tell two
of their own friends, and so on.
a Write the geometric sequence for the first five days of the
above real-life situation.
b Find the value of r.
c How many people are told
of the rumour on the
12th day?
19 Decay of radioactive material is modelled as a geometric sequence where r =

there are 20 million radioactive atoms, write the first 7 terms of the sequence.
1
--- .
2
If
20 Copy and complete the following.

a A sequence that grows and each term is positive, r value is
than 1.
b A sequence that decays and each term is positive, r value is between

and
.
c
A sequence like 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, . . . , r value is
d A sequence like 2, 6, 18, 54, . . ., r value is less than

e A sequence like 54, 18, 6, 2, 1, . . . , r value is between
.
1.
.
and
377
Finding the terms of a geometric

sequence
Consider the finite geometric sequence of seven terms for which a = 3 and r = 4.
4
4
3
Now,
4
48
12
4
192
384
t1 = 3
t1 = a
t2 = 3 4
t2 = a r
t2 = a r1
t3 = 3 4 4
t3 = a r r
t3 = a r 2
t4 = 3 4 4 4
t4 = a r r r
t4 = a r 3
t5 = 3 4 4 4 4
t5 = a r r r r
t5 = a r4
and so on . . .
We notice a pattern emerging. That pattern can be described by the equation:

tn = 3 4n 1.
For example, if n = 5,
t5 = 3 44.
We can generalise this rule for all geometric sequences.
tn = ar n 1
a is the first term
r is the common ratio.
This rule enables us to find any term of a geometric sequence provided we know the
value of a and r.
WORKED Example 13
Find the 12th term of the geometric sequence:
2, 10, 50, 250, 1250, . . .
THINK
WRITE
a=2
It has been stated that it is a geometric

sequence, so find the value of r.
10
r = -----2
=5
Use the rule tn = a r n 1 to find the

12th term.
Write your answer.
t12 = 2 512 1
= 97 656 250
The value of the 12th term is 97 656 250.
The graphics calculator tip on page 361 can also be used for geometric sequences. Use
the same method but at step 2 enter the rule for the nth term as AR ^ (n 1).
378
WORKED Example 14
The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 8 and the 5th is 512. Find the 10th term of this
sequence.
THINK
WRITE
t2 = a r1
n1
tn = a r
=8
.
t5 = a r4
tn = a r n 1.
= 512
1
Solve
the
2
equations
simultaneously
a
r
=8
[1]
3
4
by eliminating a, to find r.
a r = 512
[2]
a r 4 512
-------------- = --------[2] [1]
Divide equation 2 by equation 1.
ar
8
r3 = 64
r=4
Substitute r = 4 into equation [1].
4 To find a, substitute the value of r.
a4=8
a=2
tn = 2 4n 1
5 Write down the rule.
t10 = 2 49
6 To find the 10th term, let n = 10.
= 524 288
The 10th term in the sequence is 524 288.
WORKED Example 15
The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 2, 6, and 18.

Which numbered term would be the first to exceed 1 000 000 in this sequence?
THINK
Method 1: Using logarithms
1 To find the rule for the sequence, find
a and r and substitute them into
tn = a r n 1.
WRITE
a=2
t
r = ---2
t1
= 6--2=3
tn = 2 3n 1
2 3n 1 = 1 000 000
3n 1 = 500 000
n1
and 500 000 in terms
log 3n 1 = log 500 000
Express 3
of logarithms to the base 10.
(n 1) log 3 = log 500 000
log 500 000
(n 1) = ---------------------------log 3
n 1 = 11.9445
n = 12.9445
The next whole number term is the 13th. The 13th term would be the first to exceed 1 000 000.
Set up the equation to be solved.
THINK
Method 2: Trial and error
1 Find the rule for the sequence.
See Method 1.
379
WRITE
a = 2 and r = 3
tn = 2 3n 1
2 3n 1 = 1 000 000
3n 1 = 500 000
Set up the equation to be solved.
Try various values of n.

With n = 8, value is less than 1 000 000.
With n = 15, value is greater than 1 000 000.
With n = 12, value is too small.
With n = 14, value is too large.
With n = 13, value just exceeds 500 000.
Use the table feature of the calculator.

Press 2nd [TBLSET].
Start with the first term, TblStart = 1.
Show successive terms, Tbl = 1.
Use Table to display the sequence.

Press 2nd [TABLE].
The table of values appears.
Use the cursor to scroll down.
Write your answer.

Note that the value of the 13th term appears as 1.06E6
which is 1.06 106 or 1 060 000. It is written in
exponential form since it is too large a number to
fit on the screen.
Let n = 8,
377 = 2187 (too small)
Let n = 15, 314 = 4 782 969 (too large)
Let n = 12, 311 = 177 147 (too small)
Let n = 14, 313 = 1 594 323 (too large)
Let n = 13, 312 = 531 441
The 13th term is the required term.
Method 3: Using the graphics calculator
Note: Remember that your graphics calculator will need to be set in sequence
mode. This graphics calculator uses u(n) to represent tn.
THINK
WRITE/DISPLAY
Use
the
function
feature
of
the
calculator.
1
Press Y= and enter for the first term,
n = 1, nMin = 1
the rule, u(n) = 2 3n - 1
the first term, u(nMin) = 2.
The first term to exceed

1 000 000 is the 13th.
380
WORKED Example 16
A real estate agent records the number of
blocks of land to be sold on a new estate
each week.
If the number of blocks of land sold
continue to follow a geometric sequence:
a prove it is a geometric sequence and
thus write down the value of the
common ratio, r
b write down a rule for the number of
blocks of land, tn, sold in week
number n
c calculate the number of blocks of
land sold in week number 8.
Week number
Number of blocks of
land sold
128
64
32
THINK
WRITE
The first term, a, is 128. To find r,

evaluate the ratios.
Use tn = ar n 1 to write the rule.
b tn = 128
Use the formula in part b.
c t8 = 128 ( 1--2- )7 = 1
Write your answer.
t 3 32
t2
64
---- = --------- = --------t 2 64
t 1 128
1
1
= --= --2
2
Same common ratio so the terms follow a
1
geometric sequence. The ratio, r = --- .
2
n1
1
---
2
The number of blocks of land sold in the

8th week will be 1.
remember
remember
To find the terms of a geometric sequence use the following formula:
tn = ar n 1
a is the first term
9E
WORKED
13
Finding the terms of a

geometric sequence
Math
Finding terms
of a geometric
sequence
GC pro
gram
1 Find the value of the term specified for the given geometric sequences.
a Find the 10th term of the geometric sequence 2, 12, 72, 432, 2592, . . .
b Find the 11th term of the geometric sequence 5, 35, 245, 1715, 12 005, . . .
c Find the 18th term of the geometric sequence 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, . . .
d Find the 8th term of the geometric sequence 11, 22, 44, 88, 176, . . .
e Find the 11th term of the geometric sequence 5, 15, 45, 135, 405, . . .
f Find the 15th term of the geometric sequence 2, 8, 32, 128, 512, . . .
cad
Example
381
Geometric
series
2 Find the value of the term specified for the given geometric sequences in decimal
form.
a Find the 20th term of the geometric sequence 1.1, 2.2, 4.4, 8.8, 17.6, . . .
b Find the 10th term of the geometric sequence 2.3, 2.76, 3.312, 3.9744, . . .
c Find the 8th term of the geometric sequence 3.1, 8.06, 20.956, 54.4856,
141.662 56, . . .
3 Find the value of the term specified for the given geometric sequences in negative
form.
a Find the 9th term of the geometric sequence 2, 8, 32, 128, 512, . . .
b Find the 12th term of the geometric sequence 6, 18, 54, 162, 486, . . .
Example
14
WORKED
Example
15
WORKED
Example
16
4 Find the value of the term specified in each of the following geometric sequences.
a The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 6 and the 5th term is 162. Find the 10th term.
b The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 6 and the 5th term is 48. Find the 12th term.
c The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 2 and the 5th term is 16. Find the 16th term.
d The 4th term of a geometric sequence is 32 and the 7th term is 256. Find the
14th term.
e The 4th term of a geometric sequence is 192 and the 7th term is 12 288. Find
the 12th term.
f The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 36 and the 6th term is 972. Find the
12th term.
a The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 5, 12.5 and 31.25. Which term
would be the first to exceed 50 000?
b The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 3.2, 9.6 and 28.8. Which term
would be the first to exceed 1 000 000?
c The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 5.1, 20.4 and 81.6. Which term
would be the first to exceed 100 000?
d The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 4.3, 9.46 and 20.812. Which
term would be the first to exceed 500 000?
6 The number of cells of a micro-organism, after each process of cell division, can be
summarised as follows.
1, 2, 4, 8, 16
If the number of cells after each division continue to follow a geometric sequence, find:
a a rule for the number of cells after n divisions
b the number of cells after 12 divisions.
HEET
SkillS
WORKED
9.1
382
7 A small town is renowned for spreading

Number of citizens in
rumours. All of its citizens are aware in
Day number
the know
a short time of any new rumours. The
spread of the rumour can be summarised
1
1
in the table given at right.
2
6
If the number of citizens who have been
told the rumour each day continues to
3
36
follow a geometric sequence, find:
a a rule for the number of citizens in day n
b the number of citizens told of the rumour by day 5
c on which day all 4230 citizens will know of the rumour.
8 Find the 9th term of the geometric sequence 6, 9, 13.5, 20.25, 30.375, . . .
9 Find the 13th term of the geometric sequence 1.5, 4.5, 13.5, 40.5, 121.5, . . .
10 Find the 8th term of the geometric sequence 6.2, 9.3, 13.95, 20.925, 31.3875, . . .
11 Find the 10th term of the geometric sequence 1--4- , 1--8- ,
1
1
1
------ , ------ , ------ , . . .
16 32 64
1 1--3- , 2 2--3- , 5 1--3- , . . .
1 4--5- , 5 2--5- , 16 1--5- , . . .
14 The 4th term of a geometric sequence is 81 and the 7th term is 2187. Find the
12th term.
15 The 4th term of a geometric sequence is 0.875 and the 7th term is 0.109 375. Find the
10th term.
16 The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 1 and the 6th term is
8
------ .
27
Find the 9th term.
17 The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 2.6, 3.38 and 4.394. Which term
would be the first to exceed 1000?
18 The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 7.2, 7.92 and 8.712. Which term
would be the first to exceed 30?
19 The takings at a new cinema each month are
recorded.
If the takings each month continue to follow a
geometric sequence, find:
a a rule for the takings in month n
b the takings in week 9.
Month
number
Takings
$10 000
$8500
$7225
20 The quantity in kilograms of sausages sold by a

Week
Quantity
butcher each week from the start of summer is
number
sold (kg)
given in the table at right.
If the quantity of sausages sold each week
1
42.48
continues to follow a geometric sequence, find:
2
50.48
a a rule for the quantity of sausages sold in
week n
3
60.48
b the quantity of sausages sold in week 5
c in which week the quantity of sausages sold will exceed 150 kilograms.
21 A tomato grower has recorded the average height

of his tomato bushes.
If the height of the tomato bushes each year
continues to follow a geometric sequence, find:
a a rule for the height of the bushes in year n
b the height of the tomato bushes in year 5
(correct to 2 decimal places)
c in which year the height of the tomato bushes
will exceed 2 m.
383
Year
Height (m)
1.223
1.263
1.323
22 A ranger records the distance from a sand dune to the waters edge at low
tide over a number of years.
If the distance from the waters edge each year continues to follow
a geometric sequence, find:
a a rule for the distance
from the waters edge in year n
b the distance from the waters edge in year 6 (correct to
2 decimal places)
c
in which year the distance from the waters edge will exceed 100 m.
Year
number
Distance from
waters edge (m)
60
64.8
69.984
23 multiple choice
The 12th term of the geometric sequence 21, 63, 189, 567, . . . is:
A 6804
B 413 343
C 1 240 029
D 3 720 087
E 5 931 980 229
24 multiple choice
The 10th term of the geometric sequence 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, . . . is:
A 2560
B 1280
C 1280
D 5120
E 3 906 250
25 multiple choice
The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 75 and the 6th term is 9375. The 9th term is:
A 5 859 375 B 1 171 875 C 32 805
D 32 805
E 234 375
26 multiple choice
The first three terms of a geometric sequence are 5.5, 7.7 and 10.78. The term which
would be the first to exceed 100 would be the:
A 8th
B 9th
C 10th
D 11th
E 12th
384
The sum of a given number of terms of

a geometric sequence
When the terms of a geometric sequence are added, a geometric series is formed.
So 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, . . . is a geometric sequence
whereas 3 + 6 + 12 + 24 + 48 + . . . is a geometric series.
The sum of n terms of a geometric sequence is given by Sn.
Consider the general geometric sequence a, ar, ar 2, ar 3, . . . ar n 1.
Now, Sn = a + ar + ar 2 + ar 3 + . . . + ar n 1.
Also, multiplying each term by r, rSn = ar + ar 2 + ar 3 + ar 4 + . . . + ar n.
So,
So,
rSn Sn = a + ar n since all the other terms cancel out.

Sn (r 1) = a(r n 1)
a(rn 1)
Sn = ---------------------r1
This formula is useful if r < 1 or r > 1, for example, if r is 2, 10, 3.3, 4. 1.2.
By calculating Sn rSn instead of rSn Sn, as we did earlier, we obtain an alternative
form of the formula. That is,
S n rS n = a ar n
Sn( 1 r ) = a( 1 r n )
a(1 rn)
S n = ---------------------1r
This formula is useful if r is in between 1 and 1 (shown as 1 < r < 1).
The sum of n terms, Sn, of a geometric sequence may be calculated using
a( rn 1 )
Sn = ---------------------- if r < 1 or r > 1
r1
or
a( 1 rn )
Sn = ---------------------- if 1 < r < 1.
1r
WORKED Example 17
Find the sum of the first 9 terms of the sequence 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, . . .
THINK
1
Find the value of r by testing ratios of

the given terms.
WRITE/DISPLAY
a = 0.25
t2
0.5
---- = ---------t 1 0.25
=2
t4 2
---- = --t3 1
=2
t3
1
---- = ------t 2 0.5
=2
t5 4
---- = --t4 2
=2
THINK
3
385
WRITE/DISPLAY
a(r n 1)
Since r > 1, use S n = ---------------------- .
r1
0.25 ( 2 9 1 )
S9 = -----------------------------1
= 127.75
On a graphics calculator this

can be determined by keying in
the formula.
Write the answer.
The sum of the first 9 terms is 127.75.
WORKED Example 18
The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 11.25 and the 6th term is 303.75.
Find the sum of the first 10 terms of the sequence correct to 1 decimal place.
THINK
1
We need to find a and r. We know that

t3 = 11.25 and that tn = ar n 1.
t3 = ar 2
t3 = 11.25
[1]
We know that t6 = 303.75 and that
t6 = ar 5
t3 = 303.75
[2]
tn = ar n 1.
3
WRITE
Solve these equations simultaneously

by eliminating a to find r.
Equation [2] divided by equation [1]:

303.75
ar 5
-------2- = ---------------11.25
ar
r 3 = 27
r = 3
Substitute r value into one of the

equations to find a, the first term.
Substituting r = 3 into equation [1]:

ar 2 = 11.25
a 3 2 = 11.25
11.25
a = ------------9
a = 1.25
a(rn 1)
Since r > 1, use S n = ---------------------- .
r1
1.25 ( 3 10 1 )
S 10 = -------------------------------2
= 36 905
Write your answer.
The sum of the first ten terms of the geometric

series is 8201.1.
386
WORKED Example 19
How many terms of the geometric sequence 100, 95, 90.25, 85.7375, . . . are required for the
sum to be greater than 1000?
Method 1: Using tables
THINK
WRITE/DISPLAY
Find a.
a = 100
Find r.
95
r = --------- = 0.95
100
a(1 rn)
Use S n = ---------------------- since r < 1.
1r
100 ( 1 0.95 n )
Sn = -----------------------------------0.05
n
Investigate how many terms are

required to sum to 1000 or Sn = 1000.
We need a value of n that makes this

statement = 0.
On your TI-83 graphics
calculator, enter the function.
We are looking for a value of
X to make this statement = 0.
Find Y1 values closest to zero
by scrolling down.
The statement is true
between X = 13 and 14.
Write your answer.
100 ( 1 0.95 )
1000 = -----------------------------------0.05
= 2000(1 0.95n)
0.5 = 1 0.95n
0.95n = 0.5
0.95n 0.5 = 0
Press Y1= and key in 0.95X 0.5.
Press 2nd [TBLSET], TblStart = 0 and
DTbl = 1.
Press 2nd [TABLE].
X
Y1
12
13
14
0.04036
0.01334
0.0123
n = 14
Fourteen terms are required to obtain a sum in
excess of 1000.
Method 2: Using trial and error

THINK
Steps 1, 2, and 3 are the same as in the
previous method.
1 Write the relationship needed for testing.
n
2 Try different values of n in 2000(1 0.95 ).
Write your answer.
WRITE
Want Sn > 1000 or 2000 (1 0.95n) > 1000

Let n = 10, so 2000(1 0.9510) = 802.5
Let n = 12, so 2000(1 0.9512) = 919.3
Let n = 13, so 2000(1 0.9513) = 973.3
Let n = 14, so 2000(1 0.9514) = 1024.7
The first fourteen terms are required to
obtain a sum in excess of 1000.
387
remember
remember
1. When the terms of a geometric sequence are added, a geometric series is
formed.
2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64 is a finite geometric sequence.
2 + 4 + 8 + 16 + 32 + 64 is a finite geometric series.
2. The sum of n terms, Sn, of a geometric sequence may be calculated using
a(rn 1)
S n = ---------------------- if r < 1 or r > 1 for example, r = 2, 3--2- , + 2 or + 1.5
r1
or
a(1 rn)
S n = ---------------------- if 1 < r < 1, for example, r = 0.2,
1r
9F
WORKED
17
or 0.25.
The sum of a given number of

terms of a geometric sequence
1 a Find the sum of the first 12 terms of the geometric sequence 2, 6, 18, 54,
Math
162, . . .
Sum of terms
b Find the sum of the first 7 terms of the geometric sequence 5, 35, 245,
of a geometric
1715, 12 005, . . .
sequence
c Find the sum of the first 15 terms of the geometric sequence 1.1, 2.2, 4.4,
GC pro
8.8, 17.6, . . .
Geometric
d Find the sum of the first 11 terms of the geometric sequence 3.1, 9.3, 27.9,
series
83.7, 251.1, . . .
e Find the sum of the first 12 terms of the geometric sequence 0.1, 0.4, 1.6,
6.4, 25.6, . . .
f Find the sum of the first 11 terms of the geometric sequence 128, 64, 32, 16, 8, . . .
cad
Example
1
--8
gram
WORKED
Example
18
2 a The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 10 and the 5th is 80. Find the sum of the
b The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 6 and the 5th is 48. Find the sum of the
c The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 15 and the 5th is 405. Find the sum of
d The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 12 and the 5th is 768. Find the sum of
e The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 500 and the 6th is 500 000. Find the
sum of the first 10 terms of the sequence.
f The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 12 and the 6th is 96. Find the sum of the
388
WORKED
Example
19
3 a How many terms of the geometric sequence 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, . . . are required for
the sum to be greater than 3000?
b How many terms of the geometric sequence 5, 20, 80, 320, 1280, . . . are required
for the sum to be greater than 100 000?
c How many terms of the geometric sequence 1.2, 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, 19.2, . . . are
required for the sum to be greater than 10 000?
d How many terms of the geometric sequence 1, 1.5, 2.25, 3.375, 5.0625, . . . are
required for the sum to be greater than 200?
e How many terms of the geometric sequence 10, 12, 14.4, 17.28, 20.736, . . . are
f How many terms of the geometric sequence 120, 96, 76.8, 61.44, 49.152, . . . are
4 multiple choice
The sum of the first 10 terms of the geometric sequence 2.25, 4.5, 9, 18, 36, . . . is
closest to:
A 1149.75
B 2301.75
C 5318.81
D 6648.51
E 8342.65
5 multiple choice
The 2nd term of a geometric sequence is 20 and the 5th is 1280. The sum of the
first 12 terms of the sequence is:
A 27 962 025 B 1 062 880 C 15 360
D 1 062 880
E 16 777 215
6 Find the sum of the first 13 terms of the geometric sequence 80, 72, 64.8, 58.32,
52.488, . . .
7 Find the sum of the first 10 terms of the geometric sequence 120, 24, 4.8, 0.96,
0.192, . . .
8 Find the sum of the first 8 terms of the geometric sequence 250, 150, 90, 54,
32.4, . . .
9 Find, correct to 1 decimal place, the sum of the first 12 terms of the geometric
sequence 192, 48, 12, 3, 0.75. . .
10 The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 2 and the 6th is 0.016. Find, correct to
1 decimal place, the sum of the first 13 terms of the sequence.
11 The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 32 and the 6th is 2.048. Find, correct
to 1 decimal place, the sum of the first 15 terms of the sequence.
Work
ET
SHE
9.2
14 How many terms of the geometric sequence 600, 180, 54, 16.2, 4.86, . . . are required
for the sum to be greater than 855?
15 How many terms of the geometric sequence 72, 57.6, 46.08, 36.864, 29.4912, . . . are
389
Applications of geometric sequences

Growth and decay of discrete variables is constantly found in real-life situations. Some
examples are increasing or decreasing populations and increase or decrease in financial
investments. Some of these geometric models are presented here.
WORKED Example 20
A city produced 100 tonnes of rubbish in the year 2001. Forecasts suggest that this may
increase by 2% each year. If these forecasts are true,
a what will be the citys rubbish output in 2005?
b in which year will the amount of rubbish reach 120 tonnes?
c what was the total amount of rubbish produced by the city in the years 2001, 2002 and 2003?
This is an example of a geometric sequence where a = 100 and r = 1.02. Note that r 0.02.
If this was the case, then multiplying 100 by 0.02 would result in a lesser amount of
rubbish in the second year and so on. We are told that the amount of rubbish increases by
2%. That is the original amount plus an extra 2%, or:
original amount + 2% of original amount
= original amount (1 + 2%)
= original amount (1 + 0.02)
= 1.02 original amount.
THINK
WRITE
a 1 Find the first term, a.
a a = 100
Determine
the
common
ratio,
r.
Increase by 2%
2
1 + 2% = 1 + 0.02
r = 1.02
Year 2001 is the first term, so n = 1.
3 Determine which term is represented
by the amount of rubbish for the
Year 2002 is the second term, so n = 2.
year 2005.
Year 2005 is the fifth term, so n = 5.
n1
to find the amount of
4 Use tn = ar
t5 = 100 1.025 1
rubbish collected in the fifth year.
= 100 1.0824
= 108.24
Write
your
response.
The
amount of rubbish produced in the fifth
5
year, or 2005, will be 108.24 tonnes.
b Method 1: Using logarithms
b
n1
and tn = 120.
1 Use tn = ar
100(1.02)n 1 = 120
(1.02)n 1 = 1.2
2 Express 1.02 and 1.2 in terms of
log 1.02n 1 = log 1.2
logarithms with base 10.
(n 1) log 1.02 = log 1.2
log 1.2
n 1 = ------------------log 1.02
n 1 = 9.207
n = 10.207
During the 11th year, that is, during 2011,
the rubbish will have exceeded 120 tonnes.
Continued over page
MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 390 Wednesday, October 10, 2001 11:01 AM
390
THINK
Method 2: Using trial and error
n1
and tn = 120.
1 Use tn = ar
2
Try various values of n.
Write your answer.
THINK
Method 3: Using a graphics calculator
1 Use the function feature of the
calculator. Press Y= and enter for
the first term, n = 1, nMin = 1
the rule, u(n) = 100 1.02n - 1
the first term, u(nMin) = 100.

Press 2nd [TBLSET].

Press 2nd [TABLE].
Use the cursor to scroll down
to a term that is in excess of 120.
Write your answer.
We need to find the sum of the first

3 years.
a(rn 1)
Use S n = ---------------------- where n = 3.
r1
Write your answer.
WRITE
100(1.02)n 1 = 120
(1.02)n 1 = 1.2
Let n = 10, (1.02)9 = 1.195
Let n = 11, (1.02)10 = 1.21
During the 11th year, that is, during
2011, the rubbish will have exceeded
120 tonnes.
WRITE/DISPLAY
The first term to exceed 120 tonnes is the

11th term or year 2011.
100 ( 1.02 3 1 )
c S3 = -----------------------------------1.02 1
S3 = 306.04
The total output of rubbish for the

years 2001, 2002 and 2003 will be
306.04 tonnes.
391
WORKED Example 21
A computer system decreases in value each year by 15% of the previous years value. Find
an expression for the value of the computer, which shall be referred to as Vn, after n years.
Its initial purchase price is given as V1 = $12 000.
THINK
WRITE
1
This is a geometric sequence since there is a

15% decrease on the previous years value.
Find a and r.
Note: Since this is a decreasing value, r is a
value less than 1.
We want an expression for the value after n
years. Use tn = ar n 1 which gives the value
of the nth term. Use Vn instead of tn.
Write your answer.
a = 12 000
r = 1 15%
= 1 0.15
= 0.85
Vn = 12 000 (0.85)n 1
The value of the computer is given by the
expression, Vn = 12 000(0.85)n 1.
Compound interest
Consider the case where a bank pays compound interest of 5% per annum on an
amount of $20 000. The amount is invested for 4 years and interest is calculated yearly.
Compound interest receives its name because the interest which is earned is paid
back into the account so that the next time interest is calculated, it is calculated on an
increased amount. There is a compounding effect on the money in the account.
If we calculated the amount in the account mentioned above each year, we would
have the following amounts.
Start
After 1 year
After 2 years
After 3 years
After 4 years
$20 000
$20 000 1.05 = $21 000
$20 000 1.05 1.05 = $22 050
$20 000 1.05 1.05 1.05 = $23 152.50
$20 000 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.05 = $24 310.13
The amounts 20 000, 21 000, 22 050, 23 152.50, 24 310.13, . . . form a geometric

sequence where a = 20 000 and r = 1.05.
We need to be a little careful, however, in using the formula tn = ar n 1 in calculating
compound interest. This is because the original amount in the account, that is, $20 000,
in terms of the geometric sequence would be referred to as t1 or a. In banking terms, t1
would represent the amount in the account after the first lot of interest has been calculated and added in.
To be clear and to be safe, it is best to use the following formula for compound interest.
A = PR n
r
where R = 1 + --------100
A = amount in the account, $
P = principal, $
r = interest rate per period (that is, per year or quarter etc.), %
n = the number of periods during the investment.
392
WORKED Example 22
Helen inherits $60 000 and invests it for 3 years in an account which pays compound
interest of 8% per annum compounding every 6 months.
a What will be the amount in Helens account at the end of 3 years?
b How much will Helen receive in interest over the 3-year period?
THINK
WRITE
a
P = 60 000
a 1 This is an example of compound interest.
n = 6 half years
r
Use A = PRn, where R = 1 + --------- . Interest
r = 4% per half year
100
4
is calculated each 6 months so, over 3 years,
So,
R = 1 + --------100
there are 6 periods: n = 6. Interest is 8% per
= 1.04
year or 4% per 6 months.
A
= PRn
So, r = 4%.
= 60 000(1.04)6
= 75 919.14
At the end of 3 years, Helen will
have a total amount of $75 919.14.
b 1 Interest equals the amount in the account at
b Interest = Total amount Principal
the end of 3 years, less the amount in the
= $75 919.14 $60 000
account at the start of the investment.
= $15 919.14
Amount of interest earned over
3 years is $15 919.14.
WORKED Example 23
Jim invests $16 000 in a bank account which earns compound interest at the rate of 12%
per annum compounding every quarter.
At the end of the investment, there is $25 616.52 in the account.
For how many years did Jim have his money invested?
THINK
WRITE
Method 1: Using logarithms
A = 25 616.52
1 We know the value of A, P, r and R.
P = 16 000
We need to find n using the compound
interest formula.
-----r = 12
4
Note: There are 4 quarters per annum.
r = 3% per quarter
and so R = 1 +
2
Now substitute into A = PRn.
Express 1.601 and 1.04 in terms of

logarithms with base 10.
3
--------100
= 1.03
A = PRn
25 616.52 = 16 000(1.03)n
1.601 = 1.03n
log 1.601 = log 1.03n
So, log 1.601 = n log 1.03
log 1.601
n = ---------------------log 1.03
0.2044
n = ---------------0.0128
THINK
4
5
Round up the number of periods to 16 to

ensure the amount is reached.
Write your answer.
Method 2: Trial and error

1 We know the value of A, P, r and R.
We need to find n using the compound
interest formula.
Try some different values of n.
Write your answer.

THINK
1 Use the function feature of the
calculator. Press Y= and enter for
the first term, n = 1, nMin = 1
the rule, u(n) = 16 000 1.03n
the first term, u(nMin) = 16 000.
2

Press 2nd [TBLSET].

Press 2nd [TABLE].
The table of values appears. Use the
cursor to scroll down to a term
that is in excess of 25 616.25.
Write your answer.
393
WRITE
n = 15.92
It will take 16 periods where a period is
3 months. So, it will take 48 months or 4 years.
A = 25 616.52
P = 16 000
-----r = 12
4
r = 3% per quarter
3
and so R = 1 + -------100
= 1.03
Now,
A = PRn
So, 25 616.52 = 16 000(1.03)n
1.601 = 1.03n
Let n = 5
1.035 = 1.159
Let n = 10
1.0310 = 1.344
Let n = 15
1.0315 = 1.558
Let n = 16
1.0316 = 1.605
It will take 16 periods where a period is
3 months. So, it will take 48 months or 4 years.
WRITE/DISPLAY
The 16th term just exceeds 25 616.25. It will

take 16 periods where a period is 3 months.
So it will take 48 months or 4 years.
394
remember
remember
Geometric growth
1. Geometric growth or increase is expressed as a percentage increase.
2. Common ratio, r = 1 + % increase
3. r values are greater than 1, for example, an 8% increase gives r = 1.08.
Geometric decay
4. Geometric decay or decrease is expressed as a percentage decrease.
5. Common ratio, r = 1 % decrease
6. r values are less than 1, for example, an 8% decrease gives r = 0.92.
Compound interest
7. The formula for compound interest is
A = PRn
r
where R = 1 + --------100
P = principal, $
r = interest rate per period (that is, per year or quarter etc.) as a percentage
9G
d
hca
WORKED
Mat
Example
Geometric
sequences
20
EXCE
et
reads
L Sp he
Sequences
and
series
Applications of geometric
sequences
1 A farmer harvests 4 tonnes of lucerne in his first year of production. In his business
plan, he has estimated an annual increase of 6% on his lucerne harvest.
a According to this plan, how many tonnes of lucerne should he harvest in his
7th year of production?
b In which year will his harvest reach 10 tonnes?
c How much will he expect to harvest in the first three years?
2 A taxi driver estimates that the cost of keeping her taxi on the road increases by 4.5%
each year. If the cost of keeping her taxi on the road in her first year of owning a taxi
was $1800:
a what was the cost in the 5th year?
b during which year did costs exceed $2500?
c what were the total costs of keeping her taxi on the road in the first 3 years?
GC pr
ogram
Geometric
series
WORKED
Example
21
WORKED
Example
22
3 The population of a town is decreasing by 10% each year. Find an expression for the
population of the town, which will be referred to as Pn. The population in the first
year, P1, was 10 000.
4 $13 000 is invested in an account which earns compound interest of 8%, compounding quarterly.
a After 5 years, how much is in the account?
b How much interest was earned in that period?
395
5 The population of the newly established town of Alansford in its first year was 6000.
It is predicted that the towns population will increase by 10% each year. If this were
to be the case, find:
a the population of the town in its 10th year
b in which year the population of Alansford would reach 25 000.
6 The promoters of Fleago flea powder assert that continued application of the
powder will reduce the number of fleas on a dog by 15% each week. At the end
of week 1, Fido the dog has 200 fleas left on him and his owner continues to apply
the powder.
a How many fleas would Fido be expected to have on him at the end of the 4th
week?
b How many weeks would Fido have to wait before the number of fleas on him
had dropped to less than 50?
7 Young saplings should increase in height by 9% each year under optimum conditions.
If a batch of saplings which have been planted out measure 2.2 metres in their first
year:
a how high should they be in their 4th year?
b in which year should they exceed 5 metres in height?
8 A number of timber beams supports a ramp. The first of the beams is 0.8 metres long
and each successive beam is 3% longer than the previous one.
a How long will the 7th beam in the line be?
b Which beam will be the first to exceed 2 metres in length?
396
9 multiple choice
A colony of ants is studied and the population of the colony in week 1 of the study is
800. If the population of the colony is expected to increase at the rate of 2% each week,
then the week in which the number of ants would exceed 1000 would be closest to:
A 6
B 10
C 13
D 26
E 32
10 A company exported $300 000 worth of manufactured goods in its first year of production. According to the business plan of the company, this amount should increase
each year by 7.5%.
a How much would the company be expected to export in its 5th year?
b In which year would exports exceed $500 000?
c What is the total amount exported by the company in its first 7 years of operation?
11 Country football crowds have been decreasing by 3% each year since records of
crowd attendance were kept. If the number of people attending in the first year that
records were kept was 63 000 in a season:
a how many people attended in the 5th year?
b when did the number of people attending in a year drop below 50 000?
12 $10 000 is invested in an account which earns compound interest of 10% per annum.
Find the amount in the account after 5 years if the interest is compounded:
a yearly
b every 6 months
c quarterly
d monthly.
13 $20 000 is invested in an account earning compound interest of 10% per annum compounding quarterly.
What is the amount in the account after:
a 1 year?
b 3 years?
c 5 years?
d 10 years?
14 $7000 is invested in an account which earns compound interest of 6% per annum
compounding monthly. After 3 years, how much is in the account?
15 In an account earning compound interest of 8% per annum compounding quarterly, an
amount of $6000 is invested. When the account is closed, there is $7609.45 in the
23
account. For how many years was the account open?
WORKED
Example
16 Sue earns 12% interest per annum compounding quarterly on her investment of
$40 000. For how many years would this investment need to operate for the amount to
rise to $50 670.80?
17 Helena receives $15 627.12 after closing an investment account which earned compound interest of 9% per annum compounding every 6 months. If Helena originally
deposited $12 000 in the account, for how long was it in the account?
18 Todd receives $66 277.33 after having invested an inheritance of $60 000 in an
account earning compound interest of 12% per annum compounding monthly. For
how long did Todd have the money invested?
19 An amount of $14 500 is invested in an account attracting compound interest of
6% per annum compounding quarterly. After a certain time the interest earned in the
account is $1834.14. Find out for how long the amount had been invested.
397
Finding the sum of an infinite

geometric sequence
If you are 2 metres away from a wall and you move 1 metre
(or half-way) towards the wall and then move 1--2- metre
(or half-way again) towards the wall and continue to do
this, will you reach the wall? When will you reach the wall?
Consider the following geometric sequence:
1, 1--2- , 1--4- , 1--8- ,
1
------ ,
16
1m
. . . This is an infinite geometric sequence
1
2
1
4
1
8
1m
2m
since it continues on with an infinite number of terms.
Each term in the sequence is less than the previous term by
a factor of 1--2- , that is, r = 0.5.
If we were to add n terms of this sequence together, we would have:
n
1 ( 1 0.5 )
Sn = --------------------------------1 0.5
n
1 0.5
= -----------------0.5
n
1
0.5
= ------- --------0.5
0.5
n1
= 2 0.5
Consider 0.5n 1 in the above equation. As n becomes very large, the term 0.5n 1
becomes very small. Try this with your calculator.
Let n = 5, 0.5n 1 = 0.54 = 0.0625; therefore, S5 = 2 0.0625 = 1.9375
Let n = 10, 0.5n 1 = 0.59 = 0.001 95; therefore, S10 = 2 0.001 95 = 1.998 05
Let n = 20, 0.5n 1 = 0.519 = 0.000 001 9; therefore, S20 = 2 0.000 001 9 = 1.999 998 1
We can see that as n becomes larger, 0.5n 1 becomes smaller. If n were to approach
infinity (note that you can never reach infinity, you can only approach it), then the value
of 0.5n 1 would approach zero. So, Sn = 2 0.5n 1 would become S = 2.
It is possible to generalise this in order to find the sum of an infinite geometric
sequence. We use the symbol S which is referred to as the sum to infinity of a geometric sequence.
The sum to infinity of a geometric sequence for which 1 < r < 1 is given by
a
S = ----------- .
1r
WORKED Example 24
Find the sum to infinity of the geometric sequence 2, 0.4, 0.08, 0.016, 0.0032, . . .
THINK
1
Find a and r.
WRITE
a=2
t2
r = ---t1
0.4
= ------2
= 0.2
Continued over page
398
THINK
2
As r = 0.2 satisfies the condition

a
1 < r < 1, use the formula S = ----------- .
1r
Write your answer.
WRITE
a
S = ----------1r
2
= ---------------1 0.2
2
= ------0.8
= 2.5
The sum to infinity of the given sequence is 2.5.
WORKED Example 25
The sum to infinity of the geometric sequence is 6.25 and the value of r is 0.2. Write down
THINK
WRITE
1
a
Use the formula S = ----------- to find the
1r
value of a.
a = 5 and r = 0.2. Use these to generate

the terms.
a
S = ----------1r
a
6.25 = ---------------1 0.2
6.25 0.8 = a
a=5
The first 4 terms of the sequence are
5, 1, 0.2, 0.04.
WORKED Example 26
The sum to infinity of a geometric sequence is 15 and the value of a is 10. Write down the
THINK
1
a
Use the formula S = ----------- to find the
1r
value of r. Transpose the equation to
make r the subject.
WRITE
a
S = ----------1r
10
15 = ----------1r
1r =
10
-----15
r = 1 2--3r =
2
a = 10 and r = 1--3- . Use these to generate

the terms in the sequence.
1
--3
The first 4 terms of the sequence are

10,
10 10 10
------ , ------ , -----3
9 27
or 10, 3 1--3- , 1 1--9- ,
10
------ .
27
399
Converting recurring decimals to fractions

We can use the sum to infinity formula to convert recurring decimals to fractions.
WORKED Example 27
.
Express 1.2 as a fraction.
THINK
1
WRITE
.
We need to express 1.2 as the sum of a
geometric sequence.
.
1.2 = 1.222 222 222 222 2
= 1 + 0.2 + 0.02 + 0.002 + 0.0002 +
= 1 + (0.2 + 0.02 + 0.002 + 0.0002 + )
a = 0.2
0.02
r = ---------0.2
= 0.1
a
S = ----------1r
.
0.2
0.2 = ---------------1 0.1
. 0.2
0.2 = ------0.9
. 2
0.2 = --9
The terms in the bracket form an

infinite geometric sequence where
a = 0.2 and r = 0.1. Use the formula
a
S = ----------- .
1r
Multiply both the numerator and

0.2
denominator of ------- by 10 to eliminate
0.9
the decimal.
Express the final answer.
.
So 1.2 = 1 +
= 1 2--9-
2
--9
WORKED Example 28
Express 0.645 . . . as a fraction.
THINK
1
We need to express 0.645 as

the sum of a geometric
sequence.
The terms in the bracket form

an infinite geometric sequence
where a = 0.045 and r = 0.01.
WRITE
0.645 = 0.645 454 5
= 0.6 + 0.045 + 0.000 45 + 0.000 004 5 +
= 0.6 + ( 0.045 + 0.000 45 + 0.000 004 5 + )
a = 0.045
0.00045
r = ------------------0.045
= 0.01
Continued over page
400
THINK
3
WRITE
a
S = ----------1r
0.045
0.045 = ------------------1 0.01
Multiply both the numerator and the
45
0.045 = --------0.045
990
denominator of ------------- by 1000 to eliminate
0.99
45
0.645 = 0.6 + --------the decimal.
990
6
45
= ------ + --------Express the final answer.
10 990
594 45
= --------- + --------990 990
639
Write your answer.
So 0.645 = --------990
a
Use the formula S = ----------- .
1r
WORKED Example 29
An injured rabbit attempts to crawl back to its hole. It moves 30 metres in the first hour,
21 metres in the second hour and 14.7 metres in the third hour and so on. If the rabbit
hole is 200 metres away, will the rabbit make it back to its hole?
THINK
WRITE
1
Determine what sort of sequence we

have.
t1 = 30, t2 = 21 and t3 = 14.7
and
a
Find the value of S = ----------- .
1r
Write your answer.
21
-----30
= 0.7
14.7
---------21
= 0.7
Now
So, we have a geometric sequence where

a = 30, r = 0.7.
30
S = ---------------1 0.7
S = 100
The rabbit will cover a total of 100 metres.
Since the rabbit hole is 200 metres away, the
rabbit wont make it.
remember
remember
Finding the sum of an infinite geometric sequence:
1. For decreasing or decaying geometric series, the sum of an infinite number of
terms approaches a finite sum.
2. The sum to infinity of a geometric sequence for which 1 < r < 1 is given by
a
S = ----------1r
9H
WORKED
24
Finding the sum of an infinite

geometric sequence
1 Find the sum to infinity of the following geometric sequences.

a 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25, 3.125, . . .
b 20, 16, 12.8, 10.24, 9.192, . . .
1
1
- , ------ , . . .
d 1, 1--3- , 1--9- , ----c 4, 2.4, 1.44, 0.864, 0.5184, . . .
27 81
e 1, 1--5- ,
1
1
1
------ , --------- , --------- ,
25 125 625
...
WORKED
Example
25
WORKED
Example
26
WORKED
Example
27, 28
WORKED
Example
29
2,
8
32
128
512
------ , --------- , ------------ , ---------------- ,
10 100 1000 10 000
...
Sum of an
infinite
geometric
sequence
h 12, 7.2, 4.32, 2.592, 1.5552, . . .

j 50, 5, 0.5, 0.5, 0.05, . . .
Geometric
sequences
and series
2 Write down the first 3 terms of the geometric sequence for which:
b r = 0.2 and S = 50
a r = 0.6 and S = 25
c r = 0.25 and S = 8
d r = 0.9 and S = 120
e r = 0.2 and S = 3 1--3f r = 0.5 and S = 4
g r = 0.8 and S = 5
h r = 0.2 and S = 7.5
7
i r = 0.6 and S = 60
j r = 0.3 and S = 11 ----13
3 Write down the first 3 terms of the geometric sequence for which:
b a = 12.5 and S = 50
c a = 6 and S = 8
a a = 12.5 and S = 25
d a = 48 and S = 120
e a = 2 4--9- and S = 3 2--34 Express each of the following recurring
decimals. as fractions. .
.
a 0.5
b 0.8. .
c 0.4. .
d 1.3
f 8.666 666 666 . . .
g 0.1 4
h 0.5 7
i 0.529
Math
cad
g 3, 0.6, 0.12, 0.024, 0.0048, . . .

i 120, 48, 19.2, 7.68, 3.072, . . .
Math
cad
Example
401
.
e 3.7
j 1.321
5 A defiant child walks 10 metres towards his mother in the first minute, 4 metres in the
second minute and 1.6 metres in the third minute. If the child continues to approach
in this same pattern, and if his mother is standing stationary, 20 metres from the
childs initial position, will the child ever reach the mother?
6 A failing machine produces 35 metres of spouting in the first hour, 21 metres in the
second hour and 12.6 in the third hour. If this pattern continues and 280 metres of
spouting is required, how far short of the quota will the machine fall?
7 A nail penetrates 20 mm with the first hit of a hammer, 12 mm with the 2nd hit and
7.2 mm with the 3rd. If this pattern continues, will the 50 mm long nail ever be completely hammered in?
8 A woman establishes a committee to raise money for a hospital. It raises $40 000 in
the 1st year, $36 800 in the 2nd year and $33 856 in the 3rd year. If the fundraising
continues in this pattern, how far short will they fall in raising $1 000 000?
9 An irrigation system sprays 25 mm of water over a crop in its 1st month, 20 mm in
the 2nd month and 16 mm in the 3rd month. If the crop requires 100 mm of water
during its lifetime, how far short or how far over is the irrigation system in supplying
the correct amount?
10 A will of a recently deceased woman specifies how her money is to be donated to a
charity. Her total wealth of $12.5 million is to be donated for eternity with the first
donation of $1 million in the first year.
a What fraction of this first donation should be donated for the second year and subsequent years?
b Write the value of the donations for each of the first 5 years.
c How much will be donated after 10 years?
402
Contrasting arithmetic and geometric

sequences through graphs
When discrete variables are presented graphically some distinct features may be
evident. This is especially so for discrete variables that have an arithmetic or geometric
pattern.
Arithmetic patterns
Value of term tn
Value of term tn
Arithmetic patterns are distinguished by a straight line or a constant increase or decrease.
2 3 4
Term n
d is positive
2 3 4
Term n
d is negative
An increasing pattern or a positive

common difference gives an upward
straight line.
A decreasing pattern or a negative

common difference gives a downward
straight line.
Geometric patterns
Value of term tn
Value of term tn
Geometric patterns are distinguished by a curved line or a saw form.
2 3 4
Term n

common ratio greater than 1 (r > 1)
gives an upward curved line.
Term n
An increasing saw pattern occurs when

the common ratio is a negative value
less than 1 (r < 1).
Value of term tn
Value of term tn
A decreasing pattern or a positive

fractional common ratio (0 < r < 1)
gives a downward curved line.
2 3 4
Term n
2 3
Term n
A decreasing saw pattern occurs when

the common ratio is a negative fraction
(1 < r < 0).
403
On the graph at right, the first 5 terms of a sequence

are plotted.
State whether the sequence could be arithmetic or
geometric and give the value of a and the value of
either d or r.
THINK
Value of term
WORKED Example 30
50
40
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4
Term number
WRITE
Examine the difference between the

value of each of the terms. In each case,
they are the same, that is, 10.
Find a.
There is a constant difference between each

successive term so the graph shows an
arithmetic sequence.
Now, t1 = 40, so a = 40.
Find d.
Now, t2 = 30 and t1 = 40.

So, d = t2 t1 = 10.
WORKED Example 31
An amount of $10 000 is invested for 5 years and earns:
a simple interest of 10% per annum
b compound interest of 10% per annum compounding yearly.
c For each of the above cases, graph, on the same set of axes, the total assets over the five
years. Use your graph or calculations to calculate the difference between the accounts
after 4 years.
THINK
WRITE
a After 1 year, amount in account

= 10 000 + 10% of 10 000
= 10 000 + 1000
= 11 000
After 2 years, amount in account
= 10 000 + 2 10% of 10 000
= 10 000 + 2000
= 12 000
= 13 000
= 14 000
= 15 000
Calculate how much is in the

account earning simple interest at
the end of each of the five years.
Continued over page
THINK
b
Calculate the amount in the account
earning compound interest at the end of
each of the 5 years using A = PRn where
r
R = 1 + --------- (that is, 1 + 10% = 1.1).
100
2
3
Draw the graphs of the amount in the

account earning simple interest
(straight line) and the amount in the
account earning compound interest
(curved line) on the same set of axes.
Use the values calculated for the end of

the fourth year.
Write your answer.
WRITE
b After 1 year, amount in account
= 10 000 1.11
= 11 000
= 10 000 1.12
= 12 100
= 10 000 1.13
= 13 310
= 10 000 1.14
= 14 641
= 10 000 1.15
= 16 105
c
Amount in account ($)
404
17 000
16 000
15 000
14 000
13 000
12 000
11 000
10 000
Compound interest
Simple interest
0 1 2 3 4 5
Number of years invested (n)
Difference in amounts = 14 641 14 000

= $641
The compound interest account earned an
extra $641 in interest after 4 years.

THINK
WRITE/DISPLAY
Use
the
function
feature
of
the
calculator.
1
Press Y= .
2 Enter the arithmetic rule for the simple interest
account, that is, tn = a + (n 1)d.
For the first term, let n = 1; therefore, nMin = 1.
The rule is, u(n) = 10 000 + (n - 1) 1000 where
1000 is the common difference, that is, 10% of
$10 000.
The first term, u(nMin) = 10 000.
3 Enter the geometric rule for the compound
interest account, that is, tn = ar n1.
For the first term, let n = 1; therefore,
nMin = 1.
The rule is, v(n) = 10 000 1.1n 1
where 1.1 is the common ratio.
The first term is, v(nMin) = 10 000.
THINK
4
Set the window of the screen as shown.
Notes:
First term is n = 1 or start.
n = 2 is after 1 year (n 1 = 1)
n = 3 is after 2 years (n 1 = 2)
Press GRAPH .
Press TRACE .
Use the cursor keys to move to different
points on the graph. To identify whether a
particular point belongs to the arithmetic
or the geometric sequence, look at the top
left of the screen where the rule of the
sequence is given. The n-value and the
Y-value of the highlighted point are shown
at the bottom of the screen.
By locating the points for which n = 5,
(after 4 years, (n 1)) we see that, for the
arithmetic sequence, u(5) = 14 000. For
the geometric sequence, v(5) = 14 641. So
after 4 years, there is $641 more in the
account which offers compound interest.
Alternatively, use the table feature of the

calculator.
1
Press 2nd [TBLSET].


Press 2nd [TABLE].
Use the cursor to scroll down to
display terms 1 to 5.
WRITE/DISPLAY
405
remember
remember
Value of term tn
Value of term tn
1. Arithmetic patterns
2 3 4
Term n
d is positive
2 3 4
Term n
d is negative

straight line.
A decreasing pattern or a negative common

difference gives a downward straight line.
Value of term tn
Value of term tn
2. Geometric patterns
2 3 4
Term n

Term n
An increasing saw pattern occurs

when the common ratio is a negative
value less than 1 (r < 1).
Value of term tn
2 3 4
Term n
A decreasing pattern or a positive fractional

common ratio (0 < r < 1) gives a downward
curved line.
+
Value of term tn
406
2 3
Term n
An decreasing saw pattern occurs when the

common ratio is a negative fraction
(1 < r < 0).
Value of term
Value of term
2 3 4
5
Term number
L Spread
XCE
Sequences
2 3 4
5
Term number
2 3 4
5
Term number
2 3 4
5
Term number
2 3 4
5
Term number
20
15
10
5
0
5
4
3
2
1
0
Geometric
sequences
sheet
5 On the graph at right, the first five terms of a

sequence are plotted.
either d or r.
60
50
40
30
20
10
0

either d or r.
Math
12
10
8
6
4
2
0

either d or r.
Arithmetic
sequences
cad

either d or r.
Math
5
4
3
2
1
0
Value of term
30

either d or r.
cad
Example
Value of term
WORKED
Contrasting arithmetic and

geometric sequences through
graphs
Value of term
9I
407

State whether the sequence could be arithmetic
or geometric and give the value of a and the
value of either d or r.
Value of term
408
100
80
60
40
20
0
2 3 4
5
Term number
9 multiple choice
On the graph at right, the first five
terms of a sequence are plotted.
The sequence could be described
by which one of the following?
A
B
C
D
E
Value of term
8 multiple choice
On the graph at right, the first five terms of a
The sequence could be described by which one of
the following?
A Arithmetic sequence with a = 10 and d = 10
B Arithmetic sequence with a = 10 and d = 0.5
C Geometric sequence with a = 10 and r = 0.5
D Geometric sequence with a = 10 and r = 2
E Geometric sequence with a = 10 and r = 1.5
10
5
0
5
10
Value of term
7 Draw a graph showing the first 8 terms of each of the following sequences:
a arithmetic, a = 7, d = 2
b geometric, a = 5, r = 1--2c arithmetic, a = 14, d = 3.5
d arithmetic, a = 32, d = 5
-----e geometric, a = 12, r = 10
3
f geometric, a = 0.02, r = 6
180
150
120
90
60
30
0
2 3 4
5
Term number
5 Term number
Arithmetic sequence with a = 10 and d = 20

Arithmetic sequence with a = 10 and d = 20
Geometric sequence with a = 10 and r = 10
10 An amount of $5000 is invested for 3 years and earns:

31
On the same set of axes, plot points showing the amount in each account at the end of
each of the 3 years.
WORKED
Example
11 An amount of $100 000 is invested for 3 years and earns:

409
12 An amount of $10 000 is invested for 3 years and earns:

13 On the same set of axes, sketch the graphs of the sequences with the rule un = 10n and
vn = 10 1.5n 1. Use your graph to decide for how many of the first five terms un is
greater than vn.
14 On the same set of axes, sketch the graphs of the sequences with the rule
un = 120 20n and vn = 100 0.8n 1. Use your graph to decide for how many of the
first five terms un is greater than vn.
15 On the same set of axes, sketch the graphs of the sequences with the rule un = 120n
and vn = 120 1.5n 1. Use your graph to decide for how many of the first five terms
un is greater than vn.
16 On the same set of axes, sketch the graphs of the sequences with the rule
un = 150 30n and vn = 100 0.5n 1. Use your graph to decide for how many of the
first five terms un is greater than vn.
Reward time
A teacher decides to give students lollies at an end-of-year party. He wishes to give
different amounts to each student based on worst to best attendance record.
1 He decides to give 1 lolly to the student with the highest absence, 2 lollies to the
student with the next highest absence, 4 to the next, then 8 and so on.
a If there are 30 students in the class, show how much each of the first
6 students will receive.
b How many lollies will the 30th or the student with the best attendance record
expect to receive?
2 The teacher realises this is not practical. He investigates a distribution
summarised as follows: 1, 3, 5, 7, . . .
a What type of pattern is this? Explain why.
b How much will the 30th student expect to receive?
c How many lollies will the teacher need to give to the whole class?
d The value in c was still unacceptable to the teacher. What is the least total
possible number of lollies required if each student is to receive a whole lolly
using an arithmetic pattern. Show the pattern clearly.
3 The teacher decides against giving lollies. He now prefers to share one single
cake. He decides to give out the pieces using the rule: 1--2- cake to first student,
1
1
--- cake to second student, --- to third student and so on.
4
8
a How many cakes will he need if he continues the pattern for all 30 students?
b How much of the cake will go to:
i the 4th student?
ii the 6th student?
iii the last student?
c Using this method the teacher realises there is something in it for him. Why?
410
Changing shape
In this investigation you will study how the area and perimeter of a closed shape
change as you systematically modify the shape.
Consider a square of side length 1 unit as shown in diagram (a) below. Consider now
making one change to each of the four sides as shown in the diagram where the side
length, AB (b), is transformed into the articulated side length, AB (c). The new side
length can be thought of as being composed of five sections all of equal length.
B
(a)
1 unit
1 unit
(b)
(c)
1 Draw all the different shapes which can be made if all side lengths of the
original square undergo one transformation. (Hint: The new articulated edge
length can be oriented two ways on each of the four sides. One way is to have
the shape point out.)
2 For each of the five different shapes, calculate the area and perimeter of the
shape. Construct a table which details the area and perimeter of each of the
five shapes, arranging the values in ascending order. What pattern do you
notice, if any?
3 Take the shape with the greatest area and now to each of the 20 sides apply
the transformation a second time to make a new shape of maximum area.

Draw a diagram depicting the new shape. Calculate the perimeter and the
area of this new shape.
4 We are now going to look for a pattern in the value of the perimeter and area
for successive applications of the transformation when applied to all sides.

Let n be the number of times the transformation is applied to the original
square. For example, when n = 0 the area is 1 unit2 and the perimeter is 4
units. Investigate the value of the area and perimeter for n = 1 (question 2),
2 (question 3), 3, 4, 5, . . .
5 Can you find a method for calculating the area and perimeter for n = x?
6 What happens to the value of the perimeter as n gets very large?
7 What happens to the value of the area as n gets very large?
8 If time permits you could extend this investigation to a new shape, for
example, an equilateral triangle or a cube. In the case of the cube you would
investigate the surface area and volume.
411
The Mandelbrot Set

Now that we have developed some of
the key concepts of sequences let us
return to the development of the Mandelbrot Set.
First recall that complex numbers can
be represented as points on the complex
plane.
For each point c in the complex
plane, consider the sequence formed by
zn + 1 z2n + c where zn and c are complex numbers and z0 = 0.
If the sequence converges to a point
for a particular c then c belongs to the
Mandelbrot Set. If the sequence
diverges, then c does not belong to the
Mandelbrot Set.
If the sequence, for a particular c,
does not diverge, this point in the complex plane is coloured black. Otherwise
this point is assigned a colour.
A two colour (black and red) version
of the Mandelbrot Set is arranged thus:
No
colour the point black.
Does the sequence diverge?
Yes
colour the point red.
Colour versions of the Mandelbrot Set are arranged thus:
No
colour the point black.
Does the sequence diverge?
Yes assign a colour
depending on how quickly
the divergence occurs.
Consider, for example, the complex number:
c = 0.2 + 0.3i
Using your graphics calculator or a spreadsheet it is possible to determine whether or
not this value of c belongs to the Mandelbrot Set. (That is, whether with this value of c,
the sequence formed by zn + 1 z2n + c converges or not.) The following spreadsheet
shows that 0.2 + 0.3i converges and hence belongs to the Mandelbrot Set.
MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 412 Wednesday, October 10, 2001 1:36 PM
412
For the complex number c = 0.8 + 0.1i we obtain the following spreadsheet screen.
The number diverges and hence does not belong to the Mandelbrot Set.
413
Draw the Mandelbrot Set

In groups of four use four sheets of 1 centimetre grid paper and proceed as follows.
Assign each member of the group a portion of the Mandelbrot Set for which he or
she is responsible. Ensure each member uses the same scale so that the four
individual sheets can be collated to form a coherent picture.
For each square on the grid paper:
1 Calculate the coordinates of the midpoint.
2 Use your spreadsheet (or graphics calculator) to determine if the sequence
zn + 1 z2n + c diverges with this value of c.
3 If it diverges, colour the square white, otherwise colour the square black.
4 Repeat until all squares are coloured.
Fibonacci Sequence
Consider the two sequences:
2, 4, 8, 16, 32, . . .
and
2, 5, 11, 23, . . .
Both are sequences whose terms can be predicted using a simple formula. However the
first sequence is considered fundamental and worthy of detailed study, whereas the
second is not.
The first sequence has numerous applications ranging from population growth to the
study of investments. The second sequence has no such applications.
Another sequence considered worthy of detailed examination is the Fibonacci Sequence:
1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, . . .
This sequence takes the name of a mathematician, Fibonacci (better known as
Leonardo of Pisa) who lived in Italy around AD 1200. The sequence arose as a result of
the problem Fibonacci posed:
If you had a pair of rabbits and it took a month for them to mature, and then produce a new pair after that, how many pairs would you have in twelve months?
At the start of the first month
No. of pairs = 1
At the start of the second month
No. of pairs = 1
At the start of the third month
No. of pairs = 2
414
At the start of the fourth month
No. of pairs = 3
At the start of the fifth month
No. of pairs = 5
This process can be continued and will reveal that the number of pairs at any stage
can be obtained by adding the number of pairs at the two preceding stages. The
resulting sequence is:
1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, . . .
In general then, if Fn stands for the number of pairs at the nth stage then
Fn + 1 = Fn + Fn 1
with F0 = 1 and F1 = 1.
A sequence that specifies the general term by referring to the preceding terms is called
recursive.
An explict formula for the nth term is
n
1 1+ 5
1 1 5
Fn = ------- ---------------- ------- ----------------
2
5
5 2
The Fibonacci Sequence has been used to describe patterns in nature from shells to
pine cones.
The golden ratio

An interesting, if mysterious, product of the Fibonacci Sequence is the golden ratio
(or golden mean).
For centuries, artists have recognised in painting and architecture that some shapes
are, of themselves, more appealing than others.
415
The ratio of height to width (or width to height) of rectangles that appeal to the eye is
called the golden ratio and its value is 1.6 : 1. More exactly the golden ratio is taken
to be
1+ 5
---------------- : 1
2
How is this number connected with the Fibonacci Sequence?
We can write the Fibonacci Sequence as follows:
F1, F2, F3, . . . Fn 1, Fn, Fn + 1 where Fn is the nth term in the Fibonacci Sequence.
Fn + 1
Consider the ratio of successive terms, ------------ . As n increases, this fraction tends to a
Fn
fixed value, the golden ratio. For proof of this:
Fn + 1
Let ------------ = r.
Fn
By definition of the Fibonacci Sequence this means
Fn + Fn 1
------------------------ =r
Fn
Fn Fn 1
------ + ------------ = r
Fn
Fn
1
1 + --- = r
r
r + 1 = r2
r2 r 1 = 0
1+ 5
r = ---------------2
(We reject the negative solution.)
Thus the ratio of terms in the Fibonacci Sequence tends to the golden ratio.
Fibonacci numbers
1 Use your graphics calculator to develop a table of the Fibonacci Sequence.
a Find the ratio of the 20th and 21st terms.
b How close is this ratio to the golden ratio?
2 Verify that the formula for the nth Fibonacci number is:
n
1 1+ 5
1 1 5
Fn = ------- ---------------- ------- ----------------
2
5
5 2
for the first 5 terms of the sequence. Only use your calculator as a last resort
and use techniques such as difference of squares to do the calculations.
3 Consider a population of rabbits where each pair produces another pair each
month. However after a pair of rabbits produces a sixth pair both rabbits die.
a Produce a spreadsheet to model the number of rabbits over time.
b Produce a formula (either explicit or recursive) to model the number of
rabbits in the population over time.
416
summary
Recognising arithmetic sequences
An arithmetic sequence is a sequence of numbers for which the difference between
successive terms is the same.
Given an arithmetic sequence, identify:
the first term, a
and the common difference, d = t2 t1 .
Given an unspecified sequence, establish whether it is arithmetic by testing all
terms for a common difference: d = t2 t1 = t3 t2 = t4 t3 = . . .
Finding the terms of an arithmetic sequence

tn = a + (n 1) d where tn is the nth term.
The sum of a given number of terms of an arithmetic sequence

A series is the sum of terms in a sequence.
Sn is the sum of the first n terms in series, for example, S25 represents the sum of the
first 25 terms.
Given a number of terms in a series, n, the first term, a, and the last term, l, use
n
S n = --- ( a + l ) .
2
Given a number of terms in a series, n, the first term, a, and the common difference,
n
d, use S n = --- [ 2a + ( n 1 )d ] .
2
Recognising geometric sequences

A geometric sequence is a sequence of numbers for which the ratio of successive
terms is the same.
Given a geometric sequence, identify:
the first term, a
t2
and the common ratio, r = ---- .
t1
Given an unspecified sequence, establish whether it is geometric by testing all
t3
t4
t2
terms for a common ratio, r = ---- = ---- = ---- =
t1
t2
t3
417
Finding the terms of a geometric sequence

tn = ar n 1
where
tn is the nth term
a is the first term
The sum of a given number of terms of a geometric sequence

2, 4, 8, 6, 32, 64 is a finite geometric sequence.
2 + 4 + 8 + 16 + 32 + 64 is a finite geometric series.
The sum of n terms, Sn, of a geometric sequence may be calculated using
a(rn 1)
S n = ---------------------- if r > 1 or r < 1 for example, r = 2, 3--2- , +2 or +4.5.
r1
or
a(1 rn)
S n = ---------------------- if 1 < r < 1, for example, r = 0.2, 1--8- or 0.25.
1r
Geometric growth
Growth or increase is expressed as a percentage increase.
Common ratio, r = 1 + percent increase
r values are greater than 1, for example, an 8% increase gives r = 1.08.
Geometric decay
Decay or decrease is expressed as a percentage decrease.
Common ratio, r = 1 percent decrease
r values are less than 1, for example, an 8% decrease gives r = 0.92.
Compound interest
A = PRn
r
where R = 1 + --------100
P = principal, $
r = interest rate per period (that is, per year or quarter etc.) as a percentage
Finding the sum of an infinite geometric sequence

For decreasing or decaying geometric series, the sum of an infinite number of terms
approaches a finite sum.
The sum to infinity of a geometric sequence for which 1 < r < 1 is given by
a
S = ----------- .
1r
Contrasting arithmetic and geometric sequences through graphs
Value of term tn
Value of term tn
Arithmetic patterns are distinguished by a straight line.
2 3 4
Term n
2 3 4
Term n
d is negative
d is positive

straight line.
A decreasing pattern or a negative

common difference gives a downward
straight line.
Value of term tn
Value of term tn
Geometric patterns are distinguished by a curved line or a saw form.
2 3 4
Term n

Term n
An increasing saw pattern occurs

when the common ratio is a negative
value less than 1 (r < 1).
Value of term tn
2 3 4
Term n
A decreasing pattern or a positive

fractional common ratio (0 < r < 1) gives
a downward curved line.
Value of term tn
418
2 3
Term n
A decreasing saw pattern occurs when

the common ratio is a negative fraction
(1 < r < 0).
419
CHAPTER
review
1 multiple choice
Which of the following could be the first 5 terms of an arithmetic sequence?
A 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, . . .
B 3, 3, 6, 6, 9, . . .
C 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, . . .
D 5, 5, 10, 15, 20, . . .
E 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, . . .
9A
2 multiple choice
For the following sequence, 3.6, 2.1, 0.6, 0.9, 2.4, . . ., it is true to say that it is:
A an infinite sequence with a = 3.6 and d = 0.15
B an infinite sequence with a = 3.6 and d = 1.5
C an infinite sequence with a = 0.15 and d = 3.6
D a finite sequence with a = 0.15 and d = 3.6
E a finite sequence with a = 3.6 and d = 0.15.
3 For the sequences below, state whether or not they are an arithmetic sequence. If they are,
give the value of a and d.
a 123, 23, 77, 177, 277, . . .
9A
9A
b 5 1--4- , 2 1--4- , 3--4- , 3 3--4- , 6 3--4- , . . .

4 multiple choice
For the arithmetic sequence, 1, 1, 3, 5, 7, . . . the value of a, the value of d and the rule for
the sequence are given respectively by:
A a = 1, d = 2, tn = 3 + 2n
B a = 1, d = 2, tn = 3 n
C a = 1, d = 1, tn = 2 n
D a = 2, d = 1, tn = 3 n
E a = 2, d = 1, tn = 3 n
5 multiple choice
The 43rd term of the arithmetic sequence 7, 2, 11, 20, 29, . . . is:
A 327
B 243
C 371
D 380
9B
9B
E 387
6 multiple choice
The 3rd term of an arithmetic sequence is 3.1 and the 7th term is 1.3. The value of the
31st term is:
A 153.7
B 27.7
C 28.9
D 38.3
E 157.9
7 If the second term of an arithmetic sequence is 5 and the 5th term is 16, which term in the
sequence is equal to 226?
8 Blood donations at a suburban location increased by 40 each year. If there were
520 donations in the first year:
a how many donations were made in the 15th year?
b what was the total number of donations made over those 15 years?
9B
9B
9B,C
420
9C
9 multiple choice
9C
10 multiple choice
9D
11 multiple choice
9D
12 multiple choice
9D
The sum of the first 24 terms of the sequence 16, 12, 8, 4, 0, . . . is:
A 720
B 912
C 1344
D 1440
E 1488
The first term of an arithmetic sequence is 14 and the 3rd is 8. The sum of the first 30 terms
of the sequence is:
A 1770
B 1095
C 885
D 1725
E 2190
There is a geometric sequence for which a = 3 and r is a negative number. We can be certain
that:
A r is a fraction less than 1
B the 3rd term will be a positive number
C the 3rd term will be greater than the 1st term
D only one number in the sequence is positive
E the 4th term will be greater than the 3rd term.
Which of the following is a geometric sequence?

A 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, . . .
B 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, . . .
C 1, 1--3- , 1--9- ,
D 4, 4, 2, 2, 1, . . .
E 100, 10, 0.1, 0.01, 0.001, . . .
1
------ ,
27
1
-, ...
----81
13 For each of the sequences below, state whether or not they are a geometric sequence. If they
are, state the value of a and r.
a 5, 5--2- , 5--4- , 5--8- ,
5
------ ,
16
...
b 700, 70, 7, 7, 70, . . .
9E
14 multiple choice
The 19th term of the geometric sequence 3.25, 6.5, 13, 26, 52, . . . is:
A 425 984
B 851 968
C 1 703 936
D 41 978 243
9E
15 multiple choice
9E
16 multiple choice
E 3 272 883 098
The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 19.35 and the 6th is 522.45. The 12th term of the
sequence is:
A 16 539.15
B 417 629.75
C 126 955.35
D 380 866.05
E 1 142 598.15
The first 3 terms of a geometric sequence are 2.25, 4.5, 9. The first term which would
exceed 1000 is:
B t10
C t11
D t12
E t13
A t9
421
17 The amount of garbage (in tonnes) collected in a particular area by the local council each
year is recorded over 3 successive years.
Year number
9E,F
Amount of
garbage
(tonnes)
7.2
8.28
9.522
If the amount collected each year were to continue to follow a geometric sequence:
a Write down a rule for the amount of garbage, tn, which would be collected in the area in
year n.
b How much garbage would be collected in the 8th year? (Answer correct to 2 decimal
places.)
c In which year would the amount of garbage collected exceed 30 tonnes?
18 multiple choice
The sum of the first 10 terms of the geometric sequence 8, 4, 2, 1, 1--2- , . . . is closest to:
A 15
B 16
C 17
D 18
E 20
19 multiple choice
The 3rd term of a geometric sequence is 0.9 and the 6th is 7.2. The sum of the first 12 terms
of the sequence is closest to:
A 2
B 122
C 921
D 4122
E 8190
20 How many terms of the geometric sequence 164, 131.2, 104.96, 83.968, 67.1744, . . . are
required for the sum to exceed 800?
21 multiple choice
9F
9F
9G
A tree increases in height each year

by 5%. If it was 1.2 m high in its
first year, in its 6th year its height
would be closest to:
A 1.53 m
B 1.61 m
C 5.5 m
D 9.11 m
E 3750 m
22 multiple choice
Profits in a company are projected
to increase by 8% each year. If the
profit in the first year was $60 000,
in which year could a profit in excess
of $100 000 be expected?
A year 6
B year 7
C year 8
9F
9G
D year 9
E year 10
422
9G
23 Anya invests $25 000 in an account earning compound

interest of 10% per annum compounding quarterly.
a Find the amount in the account after 3 years.
b Find how long it would take to have $40 965.41 in her
account.
9H
24 multiple choice
The sum to infinity of the geometric sequence
64 256
------ , --------- , --------- , . . . is:
1, 4--5- , 16
25 125 625
A
9I
9I
C 1 4--5-
D 4
E 5
The first term of the geometric sequence for which r = 0.5

and S = 5 1--3- is:
B 2 1--3-
C 2 2--3-
D 8
E 10 2--3-
26 Express 3.7 as a fraction.

27 The batteries in a toy soldier are running down. The toy soldier marches 50 cm in the first
minute, 30 cm in the second minute, 18 cm in the next and so on. By how much does the toy
soldier fall short of marching 1.5 m?
28 multiple choice
The first five terms of a sequence are plotted
on the graph at right.
The sequence could be described by which of the
following?
C Geometric sequence with a = 50 and r = 0.5
D Geometric sequence with a = 50 and r = 1.5
E Geometric sequence with a = 50 and d = 2
Value of term
9I
5
--4
25 multiple choice
A 1
9H
9H
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
2 3 4
5
Term number
29 multiple choice
The first five terms of a sequence are plotted
on the graph at right.
The sequence could be described by which of
the following?
C Geometric sequence with a = 10 and r = 5
D Geometric sequence with a = 10 and r = 5
E Geometric sequence with a = 10 and d = 5
Value of term
9H
1
--5
15
10
5
0
5
10
15
30 On the same set of axes, sketch the graph of the sequence with the rule:
a un = 10n
b vn = 10 2n 1
5 Term number
423
Modelling and application

1 A newly established quarry produces crushed rock for the building of roads and freeways.
The amount of crushed rock, in tonnes, it produces increases by 3 1--2- tonnes each month and its
production for the first 3 months of operation is shown below.
Month
Crushed rock produced (tonnes)
11.5
15
a Write down the amount of crushed rock produced in the 4th month.
b Write down a rule for tn, the amount of crushed rock produced in month n, expressed in
terms of n, the nth month.
c Write down the amount of crushed rock produced in the 60th month.
d During which month will the amount of crushed rock coming from the quarry exceed
100 tonnes?
e The local council has ordered that after a total of 3050 tonnes of crushed rock has been
extracted from the quarry, an environmental impact survey must be completed. After how
many months will that happen?
2 The amount of crushed rock produced each month at a second quarry is shown below.
Month
Crushed rock produced (tonnes)
10
11
12.1
424
Given that production at this quarry increases geometrically, find:

a the common ratio, r
b a rule for the amount of crushed rock produced, tn in tonnes, expressed in terms of the
number of months, n
c the amount of crushed rock produced in the 5th month
d in which month the amount of crushed rock produced exceeds 30 tonnes
e the total amount of crushed rock produced by the quarry in its first year of operation.
CHAPTER
test
yourself
3 During its first month of production, the second quarry produces more crushed rock than the
first quarry. In the months after that, however, the first quarry produced more crushed rock
than the second quarry.
After how many months does the second quarry produce more than the first quarry again?

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MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 353 Monday, October 15, 2001 7:06 AM

MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 354 Thursday, October 11, 2001 7:00 AM

Recognising arithmetic sequences

MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 355 Thursday, October 11, 2001 7:00 AM

Chapter 9 Sequences and series

The arithmetic sequence below

a 7, 13, 19, 25, 31, . . .

Write the sequence.

Calculate the difference between the

Calculate the difference between the

Calculate the difference between t5

Check that the differences are the same

Write the sequence.

Calculate the difference between the

There is no need to do any further

b 81, 94, 106, 120, 133, . . .

MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 356 Thursday, October 11, 2001 7:00 AM

c 1.3, 2.5, 3.7, 4.9, 6.3, . . .

Write the sequence.

Calculate the difference between t2 and t1.

2.5 1.3 = 1.2

Calculate the difference between t3 and t2.

3.7 2.5 = 1.2

Calculate the difference between t4 and t3.

4.9 3.7 = 1.2

Calculate the difference between t5 and t4.

6.3 4.9 = 1.4

Check that the differences are the same.

There is no common difference.

Write the sequence.

Calculate the difference between t2 and t1.

Calculate the difference between t3 and t2.

Calculate the difference between t4 and t3.

Calculate the difference between t5 and t4.

Check that the differences are the same.

d 1 1--2- , 1, 1--2- , 0, 1--2- , . . .

There is a common difference of 1--2- .

b 1 --5- , --5- , --5- , 1 --5- , 2 --5- , . . .

Write the sequence.

What is the first term?

What is the difference between t2

Write your answer.

a, of 1 2--5- and a common difference, d,

MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 357 Thursday, October 11, 2001 7:00 AM

Chapter 9 Sequences and series

1 State which of the following are arithmetic sequences.

3 State which of the following are arithmetic sequences.

5 State which of the following are arithmetic sequences.

7 State which of the following are arithmetic sequences.

1 1--2- , 2 1--2- , 3 1--2- , 4 1--2- , . . .

g 1 1--3- , 2--3- , 0, 2--3- , 1 1--3- , . . .

3--4- , 0, 3--4- , 1 1--2- , 2 1--4- , . . .

1 1--4- , 1 3--4- , 2 1--4- , . . .

h 4--5- , 2--5- , 0, 3--5- , 1, . . .

MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 358 Thursday, October 11, 2001 7:00 AM

9 State which of the following

MQ Maths C Yr 11 - 09 Page 359 Thursday, October 11, 2001 7:00 AM

Chapter 9 Sequences and series