SEQUENCE AND SERIES

A Project Report
Submitted to
Department of Mathematics
Kathmandu Model Secondary School
Bagbazaar, Kathmandu, Nepal

Submitted by
Roshan Kumar Shah Kalwar (Roll Number:36)
Under supervision: Bhupendra Lamichhane(BL)
Abstract
Sequences and series form a fundamental part of mathematics, with applications spanning across
various fields, including engineering, economics, and computer science. A sequence is an
ordered list of numbers following a specific rule, while a series is the summation of terms in a
sequence. This topic explores the foundational concepts, classifications, and properties of
sequences (arithmetic, geometric, harmonic, and more) and their associated series. Key ideas
such as convergence, divergence, infinite series, and special summation formulas are studied in
depth. The focus also extends to applications, such as evaluating limits, approximating functions
using power series, and solving real-world problems through mathematical modeling. By
understanding sequence and series, learners can unlock deeper insights into the behavior of
mathematical functions and their relationships, making it an indispensable tool in advanced
mathematics and beyond.
 Declaration
I solemnly affirm that I have completed the project report presented
here under the guidance of Department of Mathematics, and it has not
been previously submitted for any other examination. All sources of
information utilized in this report have been duly acknowledged
through proper referencing to the respective authors or institutions.

Signarture:
Name of student: Roshan Kumar Shah Kalwar
Stream: Science
Section: M4
Date: 2081-09-01
 Subject Teacher’s Recommendation
I have supervised the project work report entitled ‘Sequence and
Series’ which was submitted by the student named Roshan Kumar Shah
Kalwar from KMC college. The report follows the procedure and format
requirements set by the Department of Mathematics and is being
submitted as partial fulfillment of the internal evaluation requirements
for grade XI. Therefore, I recommend this report for evaluation.

Signature:
Name of the Subject Teacher: Bhupendra Lamichhane(BL)
Date: 2081-09-01
Endorsement
We here by endorse the project work entitled ‘Sequence and Series’
Submitted by Roshan Kumar Shah Kalwar of KMC college. Nepal in
partial fulfillment of the requirements of the internal evaluation of
mathematics of grade XI.
Signature:
Acknowledgement
I would like to express any deepest gratitude to my supervisor,
Bhupendra Lamichhane for his invaluable guidance, encouragement
and support throughout the entire process of conducting this project
report. His expertise and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping
the direction and quality of this report. I would also like to thank my
colleagues at the Department of Mathematics, KMC college for their
insightful feedback and stimulating discussions that have enriched my
understanding of the project topic.

I am grateful to my friends and family for their unwavering support and

encouragement and for always believing in me. Their love,
understanding and motivation have been driving force behind my
perseverance and completion of this thesis. I would like to acknowledge
the funding support provided by the KMC college, which has enabled
me to carry out this research. Their financial assistance has been crucial
in facilitating data collection, analysis, and dissemination of the findings
. Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to all the
participants who generously shared their time and insights, without
whom this research would not have been possible. Their contributions
have been invaluable in advancing our understanding of the research
topic. In conclusion, I am deeply grateful to all those who have
contributed to the completion of this report, and I acknowledge their
efforts with sincere appreciation.
 Table of Content
1. Abstract………………………………………………………………………..1
2. Declaration……………………………………………………………………2
3. Subject Teacher’s Recommendation……………………………..3
4. Endorsement…………………………………………………………………4
5. Acknowledgement…………………………………………………………5
6. Table of content…………………………………………………………….6
7. Chapter: Introduction…………………………………………………….7
8. Body……….……………………………………………………………………..9
9. Some questions..……………………………………………………………11
10. History…….…………………………………………………………….13
11. Conclusion…………………………………………………………….14
Chapter1: Introduction
A sequence is a set of numbers arranged in a specific order, following a definite rule. Each
number in the sequence is called a term, and the position of each term is specified by a positive
integer, typically denoted by n. Sequences are an integral part of mathematics, as they serve as a
foundation for understanding patterns, progressions, and functions.

Sequences can be classified into two types:

1. Finite Sequence: A sequence with a fixed number of terms.

Example: 2,4,6,8 (four terms).
2. Infinite Sequence: A sequence that continues indefinitely.
Example: 1,2,3,4,……

Types of Sequences

1. Arithmetic Sequence (AP): A sequence in which each term differs from the preceding
one by a constant value, called the common difference (d).
Example: 3,6,9,12,…where d=3d .
2. Geometric Sequence (GP): A sequence in which each term is obtained by multiplying
the preceding term by a constant value, called the common ratio (r).
Example: 2,4,8,16,…, where r=2r.
3. Harmonic Sequence: A sequence of terms whose reciprocals form an arithmetic
sequence.

4. Fibonacci Sequence: A special sequence where each term is the sum of the two
preceding terms.
Example: 0,1,1,2,3,5,8,…0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8,

Applications of Sequences

 Modeling real-life phenomena like population growth or financial investments.

 Analysis of patterns in natural phenomena and computer algorithms.
 Laying the groundwork for series and summation.

Introduction to Series

A series is the summation of the terms of a sequence. If a sequence is represented as a1,a2,a3,…

a_1, a_2, a_3, \dotsa1,a2,a3,…, the corresponding series is expressed as Sn=a1+a2+a3+⋯+an Sn
= a_1 + a_2 + a_3 +…… + a_n Sn=a1+a2+a3+⋯+an. A series can be finite (ending after a
specific number of terms) or infinite (continuing indefinitely).
Body:

Types of Series

1. Arithmetic Series: The sum of terms in an arithmetic sequence.

Formula: Sn=n/2[2a+(n−1)d],
where a is the first term, d is the common difference, and n is the number of terms.

Example: 3+6+9+12=30.

2. Geometric Series: The sum of terms in a geometric sequence.

Formula: Sn=root ab and Sn=a(r^n-1)/r-1.

For an infinite geometric series (∣r∣<1|r| < 1∣r∣<1): S=a/1-r.

Example: 2+4+8+16=30 (finite case).

3. Harmonic Series: The sum of terms in a harmonic sequence.

Example: Sn=2ab/a+b.
4. Power Series: A series where terms involve powers of a variable, often used in

Example: S=1+x+x2+x3+⋯=11−xS = 1 + x + x^2 + x^3 + …… (for ∣x∣<1|x| < 1∣x∣<1).

approximations and expansions.

Convergence and Divergence

 A series is said to converge if the sum approaches a finite value as the number of terms
increases to infinity.
Example: The infinite geometric series S=1+12+14+18+…S = 1 + 1/2 + 1/4 +1/8 +
………………(S=1+21+41+81+… converges to 222.
 A series diverges if the sum grows indefinitely.
Example: The harmonic series diverges as Sn→∞.

Applications of Series

 Solving differential equations and evaluating integrals.

 Approximating functions using Taylor and Maclaurin series.
 Financial modeling, such as calculating compound interest.
 Physics and engineering, for studying waveforms and signal processing.
Some theoretical question:
Q1

What does a Sequence and a Series Mean?

A sequence is defined as an arrangement of numbers in a particular order. On the other hand, a

series is defined as the sum of the elements of a sequence.
Q2

What are Some of the Common Types of Sequences?

A few popular sequences in maths are:

 Arithmetic Sequences
 Geometric Sequences
 Harmonic Sequences
 Fibonacci Numbers
Q3

What are Finite and Infinite Sequences and Series?

Sequences: A finite sequence is a sequence that contains the last term such as a1, a2, a3, a4, a5,
a6……an. On the other hand, an infinite sequence is never-ending i.e. a1, a2, a3, a4, a5, a6……an…..
Series: In a finite series, a finite number of terms are written like a1 + a2 + a3 + a4 + a5 + a6 + ……an.
In case of an infinite series, the number of elements are not finite i.e. a1 + a2 + a3 + a4 + a5 + a6
+ ……an +…..

Q4

Give an example of sequence and series.

An example of sequence: 2, 4, 6, 8, …
An example of a series: 2 + 4 + 6 + 8 + …
Q5

What is the formula to find the common difference in

an arithmetic sequence?
The formula to determine the common difference in an arithmetic sequence is:
Common difference = Successive term – Preceding term.
Q6

How to represent the arithmetic sequence?

If “a” is the first term and “d” is the common difference of an arithmetic sequence, then it is
represented by a, a+d, a+2d, a+3d, …
Q7

How to represent the geometric sequence?

If “a” is the first term and “r” is the common ratio of a geometric sequence, then the geometric
sequence is represented by a, ar, ar2, ar3, …., arn-1, ..
Q8

How to represent arithmetic and geometric series?

The arithmetic series is represented by a + (a+d) + (a+2d) + (a+3d) + …

The geometric series is represented by a + ar + ar2 + ar3 + ….+ arn-1+ ..
Historical Background
The ancient civilization Babylonians and Egyptians were familiar with
arithmetic and geometric sequences Greek mathematicians such as
Euclid and Archimedes explored the sequence with their properties.
Around 5th century, Indian mathematician Aryabhata introduced the
concept of arithmetic sequence. In 12th century, Bhaskar II, developed
the concept of an infinite series along with their convergence property.
In 17th century, European mathematician made advancements in the
study of sequence and series. Later Newton, Leibniz, Bernoulli, Euler,
Fourier and many others developed the theory of sequence and series
along with their applications. In the 18 th and 19th centuries, Euler
focused heavily on power series and developed the notation(sigma
notation) for the sum of an infinite series. Cauchy helped to establish
rigorous analysis, whereas Gauss investigated geometric and arithmetic
series.
Conclusion
Sequences and series form a fundamental part of mathematics,
connecting patterns, algebra, and calculus. Their study allows us to
understand and analyze the progression of numbers and the summation
of terms systematically.

 Practical Significance: These concepts have extensive

applications in real-world problems, including financial
calculations (e.g., interest, annuities), physics, and computer
science.
 Mathematical Foundation: They help in recognizing patterns,
solving algebraic equations, and preparing for advanced topics like
calculus and number theory.
 Historical Significance: From ancient civilizations to modern
advancements, the study of sequences and series reflects the
evolving nature of mathematical thought.

By learning sequences and series, students gain not only problem-

solving skills but also an appreciation of the mathematical patterns that
structure our world.