If (S_n-S_{n-2}=79), what is the value of (n)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: 40
Let \(S_n\) be the sum of the first \(n\) natural numbers. In \(S_n-S_{n-2}\), only the last two terms, \((n-1)\) and \(n\), remain. Hence, \(S_n-S_{n-2}=(n-1)+n=2n-1\). Now \(2n-1=79\) gives \(2n=80\), so \(n=40\). If \(n=39\), the value would be \(2(39)-1=77\), not 79. Exam tip: In differences of partial sums, write the terms that remain after cancellation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
40
Why is this the correct answer?
Let \(S_n\) be the sum of the first \(n\) natural numbers. In \(S_n-S_{n-2}\), only the last two terms, \((n-1)\) and \(n\), remain. Hence, \(S_n-S_{n-2}=(n-1)+n=2n-1\). Now \(2n-1=79\) gives \(2n=80\), so \(n=40\). If \(n=39\), the value would be \(2(39)-1=77\), not 79. Exam tip: In differences of partial sums, write the terms that remain after cancellation.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 9 Mathematics question. Chapter: Sequences and Progressions. Topic: Sum of first n natural numbers.
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