If (a_1=1), (a_2=2), and (a_n=2a_{n-1}), what is (a_5)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: 16
By the recursive rule, each new term is twice the preceding term. Thus the sequence is \(1, 2, 4, 8, 16\), so \(a_5=16\). The value \(8\) is the fourth term, \(a_4\), not the fifth term. Exam tip: write the term numbers while extending a recursively defined sequence.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
16
Why is this the correct answer?
By the recursive rule, each new term is twice the preceding term. Thus the sequence is \(1, 2, 4, 8, 16\), so \(a_5=16\). The value \(8\) is the fourth term, \(a_4\), not the fifth term. Exam tip: write the term numbers while extending a recursively defined sequence.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 9 Mathematics question. Chapter: Sequences and Progressions. Topic: Recursive rule.
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