Which of the following sequences cannot be the \(n\)th term of an arithmetic progression?
Advertisement
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: \(n^2+1\)
The \(n\)th term of an AP has the linear form \(an+b\), so consecutive differences must be constant. For \(n^2+1\), the differences are \(3,5,7,\ldots\), not constant. Exam tip: identify whether the formula is linear in \(n\).
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
\(n^2+1\)
Why is this the correct answer?
The \(n\)th term of an AP has the linear form \(an+b\), so consecutive differences must be constant. For \(n^2+1\), the differences are \(3,5,7,\ldots\), not constant. Exam tip: identify whether the formula is linear in \(n\).
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Mathematics question. Chapter: Arithmetic Progressions (AP). Topic: Finding the $n$th term of an AP.
Advertisement