What is the general term of the sequence (6,20,42,72,\ldots)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: \(a_n=4n^2+2n\)
The first differences are \(14,22,30\), and the second differences are constant at \(8\). Hence the sequence is quadratic, with coefficient of \(n^2\) equal to \(8/2=4\). Substituting \(n=1,2,3,4\) in \(a_n=4n^2+2n\) gives \(6,20,42,72\), respectively. Option B matches the first term but gives \(16\), not \(20\), when \(n=2\). Exam tip: verify a proposed general term using at least the first three terms.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
\(a_n=4n^2+2n\)
Why is this the correct answer?
The first differences are \(14,22,30\), and the second differences are constant at \(8\). Hence the sequence is quadratic, with coefficient of \(n^2\) equal to \(8/2=4\). Substituting \(n=1,2,3,4\) in \(a_n=4n^2+2n\) gives \(6,20,42,72\), respectively. Option B matches the first term but gives \(16\), not \(20\), when \(n=2\). Exam tip: verify a proposed general term using at least the first three terms.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 9 Mathematics question. Chapter: Sequences and Progressions. Topic: Explicit or general rule.
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