Sequences and Series: Chapter Learning Target

8 Sequences and Series
8.1 Defining and Using Sequences and Series

8.2 Analyzing Arithmetic Sequences and Series
8.3 Analyzing Geometric Sequences and Series
8.4 Finding Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
Chapter Learning Target:
8.5 Using Recursive Rules with Sequences Understand sequences and series.
Chapter Success Criteria:
■ I can define and use sequences and series.
■ I can describe how to find sums of infinite
geometric series.
■ I can analyze arithmetic and geometric
sequences and series.
■ I can explain how to write recursive rules
for sequences.
SEE the Big Idea

Tree Farm (p. 449)
Fi hP
Fish l ti
Population ((p. 445)
( 431))
Skydiving (p.
Marching Band (p. 423)
Museum Skylight (p.

(p 416)
Book 1.indb 406 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Maintaining Mathematical Proficiency
Evaluating Functions
Example 1 Evaluate the function y = 2x2 − 10 for the values x = 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Input, Output,
2x 2 − 10
x y
0 2(0)2 − 10 −10
1 2(1)2 − 10 −8
2 2(2)2 − 10 −2
3 2(3)2 − 10 8
4 2(4)2 − 10 22
Copy and complete the table to evaluate the function.

1. y = 3 − 2x 2. y = 5x2 + 1 3. y = −4x + 24
x y x y x y
1 2 5
2 3 10
3 4 15
Solving Equations
Example 2 Solve the equation 45 = 5(3)x.
45 = 5(3)x Write original equation.

45 5(3)x
—=— Divide each side by 5.
5 5
9 = 3x Simplify.
log3 9 = log3 3x Take log3 of each side.
2=x Simplify.
Solve the equation. Check your solution(s).

x
4. 7x + 3 = 31
1
5. — = 4 —
16
1
2 () 6. 216 = 3(x + 6)
x
7. 2x + 16 = 144
1
8. — x − 8 = 17
4 ( 34 ) = 278
9. 8 — —
10. ABSTRACT REASONING The graph of the exponential decay function f (x) = bx has an
asymptote y = 0. How is the graph of f different from a scatter plot consisting of the points
(1, b1), (2, b1 + b2), (3, b1 + b2 + b3), . . .? How is the graph of f similar?
Dynamic Solutions available at BigIdeasMath.com

407
Book 1.indb 407 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Mathematical Mathematically proficient students consider the available tools when
Practices solving a mathematical problem.
Using Appropriate Tools Strategically

Core Concept 1
A
1
B
0 B1 = 2*A1−2
Using a Spreadsheet 2 2 2
To use a spreadsheet, it is common to write A2 = A1+1
3 3 4
one cell as a function of another cell. For instance, 4 4 6
in the spreadsheet shown, the cells in column A 5 5 8
starting with cell A2 contain functions of the cell 6 6 10
in the preceding row. Also, the cells in column B 7 7 12
contain functions of the cells in the same row in 8 8 14
column A. 9
Using a Spreadsheet
You deposit $1000 in stocks that earn 15% interest compounded annually. Use a spreadsheet to
find the balance at the end of each year for 8 years. Describe the type of growth.
SOLUTION
You can enter the given information into a spreadsheet and generate the graph shown. From the
formula in the spreadsheet, you can see that the growth pattern is exponential. The graph also
appears to be exponential.
Stock Investment
A B
1 Year Balance $3500.00
2 0 $1000.00
Balance (dollars)
3 $3000.00
1 $1150.00 B3 = B2*1.15
4 2 $1322.50
$2500.00
5 3 $1520.88
6 4 $1749.01 $2000.00
7 5 $2011.36
8 6 $2313.06 $1500.00
9 7 $2660.02
10 8 $3059.02 $1000.00
0 2 4 6 8 10
11
Year
Monitoring Progress
Use a spreadsheet to help you answer the question.
1. A pilot flies a plane at a speed of 500 miles per hour for 4 hours. Find the total distance
flown at 30-minute intervals. Describe the pattern.
2. A population of 60 rabbits increases by 25% each year for 8 years. Find the population at
the end of each year. Describe the type of growth.
3. An endangered population has 500 members. The population declines by 10% each decade
for 80 years. Find the population at the end of each decade. Describe the type of decline.
4. The top eight runners finishing a race receive cash prizes. First place receives $200, second
place receives $175, third place receives $150, and so on. Find the fifth through eighth place
prizes. Describe the type of decline.
408 Chapter 8 Sequences and Series
Book 1.indb 408 4/10/18 2:24 PM

8.1 Defining and Using Sequences
and Series
Essential Question How can you write a rule for the nth term of
a sequence?
FLORIDA
DA
ARDS
STANDARDS A sequence is an ordered list of numbers. There can be a limited number or an
infinite number of terms of a sequence.
MAFS.912.F-IF.1.3
2 F IF 1 3
a1, a2, a3, a4, . . . , an, . . . Terms of a sequence
Here is an example.
CONSTRUCTING
VIABLE ARGUMENTS 1, 4, 7, 10, . . . , 3n – 2, . . .
To be proficient in math,
you need to reason Writing Rules for Sequences
inductively about data.
Work with a partner. Match each sequence with its graph. The horizontal axes
represent n, the position of each term in the sequence. Then write a rule for the
nth term of the sequence, and use the rule to find a10.
1 4 9 16 25
a. 1, 2.5, 4, 5.5, 7, . . . b. 8, 6.5, 5, 3.5, 2, . . . c. —, —, —, —, —, . . .
4 4 4 4 4
25 16 9 4 1 1 1
d. —, —, —, —, —, . . . e. —, 1, 2, 4, 8, . . . f. 8, 4, 2, 1, —, . . .
4 4 4 4 4 2 2
A. 9 B. 9
−1 7 −1 7
−1 −1
C. 9 D. 9
−1 7 −1 7
−1 −1
E. 9 F. 9
−1 7 −1 7
−1 −1
Communicate Your Answer

2. How can you write a rule for the nth term of a sequence?
3. What do you notice about the relationship between the terms in (a) an arithmetic
sequence and (b) a geometric sequence? Justify your answers.
Section 8.1 Defining and Using Sequences and Series 409
Book 1.indb 409 4/10/18 2:24 PM

8.1 Lesson What You Will Learn
Use sequence notation to write terms of sequences.
Write a rule for the nth term of a sequence.
Core Vocabul
Vocabulary
larry Sum the terms of a sequence to obtain a series and use
sequence, p. 410 summation notation.
terms of a sequence, p. 410
series, p. 412 Writing Terms of Sequences
summation notation, p. 412
sigma notation, p. 412
Previous Core Concept
domain Sequences
range
A sequence is an ordered list of numbers. A finite sequence is a function that has
a limited number of terms and whose domain is the finite set {1, 2, 3, . . . , n}. The
values in the range are called the terms of the sequence.
Domain: 1 2 3 4 ... n Relative position of each term
Range: a1 a2 a3 a4 ... an Terms of the sequence

An infinite sequence is a function that continues without stopping and whose
domain is the set of positive integers. Here are examples of a finite sequence and
an infinite sequence.
Finite sequence: 2, 4, 6, 8 Infinite sequence: 2, 4, 6, 8, . . .
A sequence can be specified by an equation, or rule. For example, both sequences
above can be described by the rule an = 2n or f (n) = 2n.
The domain of a sequence may begin with 0 instead of 1. When this is the case, the
domain of a finite sequence is the set {0, 1, 2, 3, . . . , n} and the domain of an infinite
sequence becomes the set of nonnegative integers. Unless otherwise indicated, assume
the domain of a sequence begins with 1.
Writing the Terms of Sequences
Write the first six terms of (a) an = 2n + 5 and (b) f (n) = (−3)n − 1.
SOLUTION
a. a1 = 2(1) + 5 = 7 1st term b. f (1) = (−3)1 − 1 = 1
a2 = 2(2) + 5 = 9 2nd term f (2) = (−3)2 − 1 = −3
a3 = 2(3) + 5 = 11 3rd term f (3) = (−3)3 − 1 = 9
a4 = 2(4) + 5 = 13 4th term f (4) = (−3)4 − 1 = −27
a5 = 2(5) + 5 = 15 5th term f (5) = (−3)5 − 1 = 81
a6 = 2(6) + 5 = 17 6th term f (6) = (−3)6 − 1 = −243
Monitoring Progress Help in English and Spanish at BigIdeasMath.com
Write the first six terms of the sequence.

n
1. an = n + 4 2. f (n) = (−2)n − 1 3. an = —
n+1
Book 1.indb 410 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Writing Rules for Sequences
When the terms of a sequence have a recognizable pattern, you may be able to write a
STUDY TIP rule for the nth term of the sequence.
When you are given only
Writing Rules for Sequences
the first several terms of
a sequence, there may be Describe the pattern, write the next term, and write a rule for the nth term of the
more than one rule for
sequences (a) −1, −8, −27, −64, . . . and (b) 0, 2, 6, 12, . . ..
the nth term. For instance,
the sequence 2, 4, 8, . . . SOLUTION
can be given by an = 2n
or an = n2 − n + 2. a. You can write the terms as (−1)3, (−2)3, (−3)3, (−4)3, . . .. The next term
is a5 = (−5)3 = −125. A rule for the nth term is an = (−n)3.
b. You can write the terms as 0(1), 1(2), 2(3), 3(4), . . .. The next term is
f (5) = 4(5) = 20. A rule for the nth term is f (n) = (n − 1)n.
To graph a sequence, let the horizontal axis represent the position numbers
(the domain) and the vertical axis represent the terms (the range).
Solving a Real-Life Problem
You work in a grocery store and are stacking apples in the shape first layer
of a square pyramid with seven layers. Write a rule for the

number of apples in each layer. Then graph the sequence.
SOLUTION
Step 1 Make a table showing the number of fruit in the first three layers.
Let an represent the number of apples in layer n.
Layer, n 1 2 3
COMMON ERROR Number of

Although the plotted apples, an
points in Example 3 follow 1 = 12
a curve, do not draw the 4 = 22 9 = 32
curve because the sequence
is defined only for integer Stack of Apples
Step 2 Write a rule for the number of apples in each
values of n, specifically layer. From the table, you can see that an = n2. an
Number of apples
n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7.
Step 3 Plot the points (1, 1), (2, 4), (3, 9), (4, 16), 48
(5, 25), (6, 36), and (7, 49). The graph is
32
shown at the right.
16
0
0 2 4 6 n
Layer
Describe the pattern, write the next term, graph the first five terms, and
write a rule for the nth term of the sequence.
4. 3, 5, 7, 9, . . . 5. 3, 8, 15, 24, . . .
6. 1, −2, 4, −8, . . . 7. 2, 5, 10, 17, . . .
8. WHAT IF? In Example 3, suppose there are nine layers of apples. How many
apples are in the ninth layer?
Book 1.indb 411 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Writing Rules for Series
Core Concept
Series and Summation Notation
When the terms of a sequence are added together, the resulting expression is a
series. A series can be finite or infinite.
READING Finite series: 2 + 4 + 6 + 8
When written in
Infinite series: 2+4+6+8+...
summation notation, this
series is read as “the sum You can use summation notation to write a series. For example, the two series
of 2i for values of i from above can be written in summation notation as follows:
1 to 4.” 4
Finite series: 2 + 4 + 6 + 8 = ∑ 2i
i=1
∞
Infinite series: 2 + 4 + 6 + 8 + . . . = ∑ 2i
i=1
For both series, the index of summation is i and the lower limit of summation
is 1. The upper limit of summation is 4 for the finite series and ∞ (infinity) for the
infinite series. Summation notation is also called sigma notation because it uses
the uppercase Greek letter sigma, written ∑.
Writing Series Using Summation Notation
Write each series using summation notation.

1 2 3 4
a. 25 + 50 + 75 + . . . + 250 b. — + — + — + — + . . .
2 3 4 5
SOLUTION
a. Notice that the first term is 25(1), the second is 25(2), the third is 25(3), and the
last is 25(10). So, the terms of the series can be written as:
ai = 25i, where i = 1, 2, 3, . . . , 10
The lower limit of summation is 1 and the upper limit of summation is 10.
10
The summation notation for the series is ∑ 25i.
i=1
b. Notice that for each term, the denominator of the fraction is 1 more than the
numerator. So, the terms of the series can be written as:
i
ai = —, where i = 1, 2, 3, 4, . . .
i+1
The lower limit of summation is 1 and the upper limit of summation is infinity.
∞
i
The summation notation for the series is ∑ —.
i=1 i + 1
Write the series using summation notation.

4 9 16
9. 5 + 10 + 15 + . . . + 100 10. —12 + —5 + —
10
+—
17
+...
11. 6 + 36 + 216 + 1296 + . . . 12. 5 + 6 + 7 + . . . + 12
Book 1.indb 412 4/10/18 2:24 PM

The index of summation for a series does not have to be i—any letter can be used.
Also, the index does not have to begin at 1. For instance, the index begins at 4 in
COMMON ERROR the next example.
Be sure to use the correct
lower and upper limits of
summation when finding Finding the Sum of a Series
the sum of a series. 8
Find the sum ∑ (3 + k2).
k=4
SOLUTION
8
∑ (3 + k2) = (3 + 42) + (3 + 52) + (3 + 62) + (3 + 72) + (3 + 82)
k=4
= 19 + 28 + 39 + 52 + 67
= 205
For series with many terms, finding the sum by adding the terms can be tedious.
Below are formulas you can use to find the sums of three special types of series.
Core Concept
Formulas for Special Series
n
Sum of n terms of 1: ∑1 = n
i =1
n
n(n + 1)
Sum of first n positive integers: ∑i = —
i=1 2
n
n(n + 1)(2n + 1)
Sum of squares of first n positive integers: ∑i 2 = ——
i=1 6
Using a Formula for a Sum
How many apples are in the stack in Example 3?
SOLUTION
From Example 3, you know that the ith term of the series is given by ai = i 2, where
i = 1, 2, 3, . . . , 7. Using summation notation and the third formula listed above,
you can find the total number of apples as follows:
7
⋅
7(7 + 1)(2 7 + 1) 7(8)(15)
12 + 22 + . . . + 72 = ∑ i 2 = —— = — = 140
6 6
i=1
There are 140 apples in the stack. Check this by adding the number of apples
in each of the seven layers.
Find the sum.

5 7
13. ∑8i
i=1
14. ∑ (k2 − 1)
k=3
34 6
15. ∑1
i=1
16. ∑k
k=1
17. WHAT IF? Suppose there are nine layers in the apple stack in Example 3. How
many apples are in the stack?
Book 1.indb 413 4/10/18 2:24 PM

8.1 Exercises Dynamic Solutions available at BigIdeasMath.com
Vocabulary and Core Concept Check

1. VOCABULARY What is another name for summation notation?
2. COMPLETE THE SENTENCE In a sequence, the numbers are called __________ of the sequence.
3. WRITING Compare sequences and series.
4. WHICH ONE DOESN’T BELONG? Which does not belong with the other three?
Explain your reasoning.
6 5
∑i 2
i=1
91 1 + 4 + 9 + 16 + 25 + 36 ∑i 2
i=0
Monitoring Progress and Modeling with Mathematics

In Exercises 5–14, write the first six terms of the 27. FINDING A PATTERN Which rule gives the total
sequence. (See Example 1.) number of squares in the nth figure of the pattern
shown? Justify your answer.
5. an = n + 2 6. an = 6 − n
7. an = n2 8. f (n) = n3 + 2
9. f (n) = 4n − 1 10. an = −n2

1 2 3 4
11. an = n2 − 5 12. an = (n + 3)2
2n n
A an = 3n − 3
○ B an = 4n − 5
○
13. f (n) = — 14. f (n) = —
n+2 2n − 1
n(n + 1)
C an = n
○ D an = —
○
In Exercises 15–26, describe the pattern, write the next 2
term, and write a rule for the nth term of the sequence.
(See Example 2.) 28. FINDING A PATTERN Which rule gives the total
number of green squares in the nth figure of the
15. 1, 6, 11, 16, . . .
pattern shown? Justify your answer.
16. 1, 2, 4, 8, . . .
17. 3.1, 3.8, 4.5, 5.2, . . .
18. 9, 16.8, 24.6, 32.4, . . . 1 2 3
19. 5.8, 4.2, 2.6, 1, −0.6 . . . 2

n
A an = n2 − 1
○ B an = —
○ 2
20. −4, 8, −12, 16, . . .
2 3 4 3 5 7 C an = 4n
○ D an = 2n +1
○
21. —14 , —4 , —4 , —4 , . . . 22. —1
, —, —, —, . . .
10 20 30 40
2 2 2 4 6 8
23. —23 , —6 , —9 , —
12
,... 24. —23 , —4 , —5 , —6 , . . .
25. 2, 9, 28, 65, . . . 26. 1.2, 4.2, 9.2, 16.2, . . .
Book 1.indb 414 4/10/18 2:24 PM

29. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS Rectangular tables ERROR ANALYSIS In Exercises 51 and 52, describe and
are placed together along their short edges, as shown correct the error in finding the sum of the series.
in the diagram. Write a rule for the number of people
✗
51.
that can be seated around n tables arranged in this
10
manner. Then graph the sequence. (See Example 3.)
∑ (3n − 5) = −2 + 1 + 4 + 7 + 10
n =1
= 20
✗
52.
4
4(4 + 1)(2 ⋅ 4 + 1)
∑ i 2 = ——
i =2 6
180
=—
6
= 30
30. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS An employee at a

construction company earns $33,000 for the first year 53. PROBLEM SOLVING You want to save $500 for a
of employment. Employees at the company receive school trip. You begin by saving a penny on the first
raises of $2400 each year. Write a rule for the salary day. You save an additional penny each day after that.
of the employee each year. Then graph the sequence. For example, you will save two pennies on the second
day, three pennies on the third day, and so on.
In Exercises 31–38, write the series using summation
a. How much money will you have saved after
notation. (See Example 4.)
100 days?
31. 7 + 10 + 13 + 16 + 19
b. Use a series to determine how many days it takes
you to save $500.
32. 5 + 11 + 17 + 23 + 29
54. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS
33. 4 + 7 + 12 + 19 + . . .
You begin an exercise program.
The first week you do 25 push-ups.
34. −1 + 2 + 7 + 14 + . . .
Each week you do 10 more
1 1 1 push-ups than the previous
35. —13 + —9 + — +— +...
27 81 week. How many push-ups
2 3 4 will you do in the ninth week?
36. —14 + —5 + —6 + —7 + . . .
Justify your answer.
37. −3 + 4 − 5 + 6 − 7
55. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS For a display
at a sports store, you are stacking soccer balls in a
38. −2 + 4 − 8 + 16 − 32
pyramid whose base is an equilateral triangle with five
layers. Write a rule for the number of soccer balls in
In Exercises 39–50, find the sum. (See Examples 5 each layer. Then graph the sequence.
and 6.)
6 5
39. ∑2i
i=1
40. ∑7i
i=1
first layer
4 4
41. ∑ n3
n=0
42. ∑ 3k2
k=1
6 5
43. ∑ (5k − 2) 44. ∑ (n2 − 1)
n=1
k=3
8 6
2 k
45. ∑—
i=2 i
46. ∑—
k+1
k=4
35 16
47. ∑1
i=1
48. ∑n
n=1
25 18
49. ∑i
i=10
50. ∑ n2
n=1
Book 1.indb 415 4/10/18 2:24 PM

56. HOW DO YOU SEE IT? Use the diagram to determine 59. USING STRUCTURE Determine whether each
the sum of the series. Explain your reasoning. statement is true. If so, provide a proof. If not, provide
a counterexample.
1+ 3+ 5+ 7+ 9+ . . . + (2n − 1) = ? n n
... a. ∑ cai = c i∑
i =1 =1
ai
n n n
b. ∑ (ai + bi) = i∑
i =1 =1
ai + ∑ bi
i =1
n
n n n
... c. ∑ aibi = i∑
i =1
ai ∑ bi
=1 i =1
...
...
( )
n n
d. ∑ (ai)c =
i =1
∑ ai
i =1
n
60. THOUGHT PROVOKING In this section, you learned

57. MAKING AN ARGUMENT You use a calculator to the following formulas.
1659
evaluate ∑ i because the lower limit of summation n
i=3
is 3, not 1. Your friend claims there is a way to use the
∑1 = n
i =1
formula for the sum of the first n positive integers. Is n
n(n + 1)
your friend correct? Explain. ∑i = —
i =1 2
n
n(n + 1)(2n + 1)
58. MATHEMATICAL CONNECTIONS A regular polygon
has equal angle measures and equal side lengths. For
∑ i 2 = ——
i =1 6
a regular n-sided polygon (n ≥ 3), the measure an of Write a formula for the sum of the cubes of the first
180(n − 2)
an interior angle is given by an = — . n positive integers.
n
a. Write the first five terms of the sequence.
61. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS In the puzzle called
b. Write a rule for the sequence giving the sum Tn of the Tower of Hanoi, the object is to use a series of
the measures of the interior angles in each regular moves to take the rings from one peg and stack them
n-sided polygon. in order on another peg. A move consists of moving
c. Use your rule in part (b) to find the sum of the exactly one ring, and no ring may be placed on top
interior angle measures in the Guggenheim of a smaller ring. The minimum number an of moves
Museum skylight, which is a regular dodecagon. required to move n rings is 1 for 1 ring, 3 for 2 rings,
7 for 3 rings, 15 for 4 rings, and 31 for 5 rings.
an
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 . . . End
a. Write a rule for the sequence.

b. What is the minimum number of moves required
to move 6 rings? 7 rings? 8 rings?
Guggenheim Museum Skylight
Maintaining Mathematical Proficiency Reviewing what you learned in previous grades and lessons
Solve the system. Check your solution. (Section 1.4)

62. 2x − y − 3z = 6 63. 2x − 2y + z = 5 64. 2x − 3y + z = 4
x + y + 4z = −1 −2x + 3y + 2z = −1 x − 2z = 1
3x − 2z = 8 x − 4y + 5z = 4 y+z=2
Book 1.indb 416 4/10/18 2:24 PM

8.2 Analyzing Arithmetic Sequences
and Series
Essential Question How can you recognize an arithmetic
sequence from its graph?
In an arithmetic sequence, the difference of consecutive terms, called the common
FLORIDA
DA difference, is constant. For example, in the arithmetic sequence 1, 4, 7, 10, . . . , the
STANDARDS
ARDS common difference is 3.
MAFS.912.F-IF.1.3
2 F IF 1 3
MAFS.912.F-BF.1.2 Recognizing Graphs of Arithmetic Sequences
MAFS.912.F-LE.1.2
Work with a partner. Determine whether each graph shows an arithmetic sequence.
If it does, then write a rule for the nth term of the sequence, and use a spreadsheet
to find the sum of the first 20 terms. What do you notice about the graph of an
arithmetic sequence?
a. an b. an
16 16
12 12
8 8
4 4
2 4 6 n 2 4 6 n
c. an d. an
16 16
12 12
8 8
4 4
2 4 6 n 2 4 6 n
Finding the Sum of an Arithmetic Sequence

Work with a partner. A teacher of German mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss
REASONING (1777–1855) asked him to find the sum of all the whole numbers from 1 through 100.
ABSTRACTLY To the astonishment of his teacher, Gauss came up with the answer after only a few
To be proficient in math, moments. Here is what Gauss did:
you need to make sense 1 + 2 + 3 + . . . + 100
of quantities and their 100 × 101
100 + 99 + 98 + . . . + 1 — = 5050
relationships in 2
101 + 101 + 101 + . . . + 101
problem situations.
Explain Gauss’s thought process. Then write a formula for the sum Sn of the first n
terms of an arithmetic sequence. Verify your formula by finding the sums of the first
20 terms of the arithmetic sequences in Exploration 1. Compare your answers to those
you obtained using a spreadsheet.

3. How can you recognize an arithmetic sequence from its graph?
4. Find the sum of the terms of each arithmetic sequence.
a. 1, 4, 7, 10, . . . , 301 b. 1, 2, 3, 4, . . . , 1000 c. 2, 4, 6, 8, . . . , 800
Section 8.2 Analyzing Arithmetic Sequences and Series 417
Book 1.indb 417 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Identify arithmetic sequences.
Write rules for arithmetic sequences.
Core Vocabul
Vocabulary
larry Find sums of finite arithmetic series.
arithmetic sequence, p. 418
common difference, p. 418
Identifying Arithmetic Sequences
arithmetic series, p. 420
In an arithmetic sequence, the difference of consecutive terms is constant. This
Previous constant difference is called the common difference and is denoted by d.
linear function
mean
Identifying Arithmetic Sequences
Tell whether each sequence is arithmetic.

a. −9, −2, 5, 12, 19, . . . b. 23, 15, 9, 5, 3, . . .
SOLUTION
Find the differences of consecutive terms.
a. a2 − a1 = −2 − (−9) = 7
a3 − a2 = 5 − (−2) = 7
a4 − a3 = 12 − 5 = 7
a5 − a4 = 19 − 12 = 7
Each difference is 7, so the sequence is arithmetic.

b. a2 − a1 = 15 − 23 = −8
a3 − a2 = 9 − 15 = −6
a4 − a3 = 5 − 9 = −4
a5 − a4 = 3 − 5 = −2
The differences are not constant, so the sequence is not arithmetic.
Tell whether the sequence is arithmetic. Explain your reasoning.
1
1. 2, 5, 8, 11, 14, . . . 2. 15, 9, 3, −3, −9, . . . 3. 8, 4, 2, 1, —2 , . . .
Writing Rules for Arithmetic Sequences

Core Concept
Rule for an Arithmetic Sequence
Algebra The nth term of an arithmetic sequence with first term a1 and common
difference d is given by:
an = a1 + (n − 1)d
Example The nth term of an arithmetic sequence with a first term of 3 and a
common difference of 2 is given by:
an = 3 + (n − 1)2, or an = 2n + 1
Book 1.indb 418 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Writing a Rule for the nth Term
Write a rule for the nth term of each sequence. Then find a15.
COMMON ERROR a. 3, 8, 13, 18, . . . b. 55, 47, 39, 31, . . .
In the general rule for
an arithmetic sequence, SOLUTION
note that the common a. The sequence is arithmetic with first term a1 = 3, and common difference
difference d is multiplied d = 8 − 3 = 5. So, a rule for the nth term is
by n − 1, not n.
an = a1 + (n − 1)d Write general rule.
= 3 + (n − 1)5 Substitute 3 for a1 and 5 for d.
= 5n − 2. Simplify.
A rule is an = 5n − 2, and the 15th term is a15 = 5(15) − 2 = 73.
b. The sequence is arithmetic with first term a1 = 55, and common difference
d = 47 − 55 = −8. So, a rule for the nth term is
= 55 + (n − 1)(−8) Substitute 55 for a1 and −8 for d.
= −8n + 63. Simplify.
A rule is an = −8n + 63, and the 15th term is a15 = −8(15) + 63 = −57.
4. Write a rule for the nth term of the sequence 7, 11, 15, 19, . . .. Then find a15.
Writing a Rule Given a Term and

Common Difference
One term of an arithmetic sequence is a19 = −45. The common difference is d = −3.
Write a rule for the nth term. Then graph the first six terms of the sequence.
SOLUTION
Step 1 Use the general rule to find the first term.
a19 = a1 + (19 − 1)d Substitute 19 for n.
ANALYZING −45 = a1 + 18(−3) Substitute −45 for a19 and −3 for d.
RELATIONSHIPS 9 = a1 Solve for a1.
Notice that the points lie
Step 2 Write a rule for the nth term.
on a line. This is true for
any arithmetic sequence. an = a1 + (n − 1)d Write general rule.
So, an arithmetic sequence
= 9 + (n − 1)(−3) Substitute 9 for a1 and −3 for d.
is a linear function whose
domain is a subset of the = −3n + 12 Simplify.
integers. You can also use an
Step 3 Use the rule to create a table of values for
function notation to write
the sequence. Then plot the points. 6
sequences:
f (n) = −3n + 12. n 1 2 3 4 5 6 2 n
an 9 6 3 0 −3 −6 −6
Book 1.indb 419 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Writing a Rule Given Two Terms
Two terms of an arithmetic sequence are a7 = 17 and a26 = 93. Write a rule for the
nth term.
SOLUTION
Step 1 Write a system of equations using an = a1 + (n − 1)d. Substitute
26 for n to write Equation 1. Substitute 7 for n to write Equation 2.
a26 = a1 + (26 − 1)d 93 = a1 + 25d Equation 1
a7 = a1 + (7 − 1)d 17 = a1 + 6d Equation 2
Step 2 Solve the system. 76 = 19d Subtract.
4=d Solve for d.
Check
93 = a1 + 25(4) Substitute for d in Equation 1.
Use the rule to verify that
the 7th term is 17 and the −7 = a1 Solve for a1.
26th term is 93. Step 3 Write a rule for an. an = a1 + (n − 1)d Write general rule.
a7 = 4(7) − 11 = 17 ✓ = −7 + (n − 1)4 Substitute for a1 and d.
a26 = 4(26) − 11 = 93 ✓ = 4n − 11 Simplify.
Write a rule for the nth term of the sequence. Then graph the first six terms of
the sequence.
5. a11 = 50, d = 7 6. a7 = 71, a16 = 26
Finding Sums of Finite Arithmetic Series

The expression formed by adding the terms of an arithmetic sequence is called an
arithmetic series. The sum of the first n terms of an arithmetic series is denoted by Sn.
To find a rule for Sn, you can write Sn in two different ways and add the results.
Sn = a1 + (a1 + d ) + (a1 + 2d ) + . . . + an
Sn = an + (an − d ) + (an − 2d ) + . . . + a1
2Sn = (a1 + an) + (a1 + an) + (a1 + an) + . . . + (a1 + an)
(a1 + an) is added n times.

You can conclude that 2Sn = n(a1 + an), which leads to the following result.
Core Concept
The Sum of a Finite Arithmetic Series
The sum of the first n terms of an arithmetic series is
a1 + an
Sn = n —( 2
. )
In words, Sn is the mean of the first and nth terms, multiplied by the number
of terms.
Book 1.indb 420 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Finding the Sum of an Arithmetic Series
20
Find the sum ∑ (3i + 7).
i =1
SOLUTION
Step 1 Find the first and last terms.
a1 = 3(1) + 7 = 10 Identify first term.
a20 = 3(20) + 7 = 67 Identify last term.
STUDY TIP Step 2 Find the sum.
This sum is actually a
a1 + a20
partial sum. You cannot
find the complete sum
S20 = 20 — ( )
2
Write rule for S20.
of an infinite arithmetic 10 + 67
series because its terms = 20 ( — ) Substitute 10 for a1 and 67 for a20.
2
continue indefinitely.
= 770 Simplify.
You are making a house of cards similar to the one shown. first row
a. Write a rule for the number of cards in the nth row
when the top row is row 1.
b. How many cards do you need to make a house of
cards with 12 rows?
SOLUTION
a. Starting with the top row, the number of cards in the rows are 3, 6, 9, 12, . . ..
These numbers form an arithmetic sequence with a first term of 3 and a common
difference of 3. So, a rule for the sequence is:
Check
Use a graphing calculator to
check the sum. = 3 + (n − 1)(3) Substitute 3 for a1 and 3 for d.
sum(seq(3X,X,1,1
= 3n Simplify.
2))
234
b. Find the sum of an arithmetic series with first term a1 = 3 and last term
a12 = 3(12) = 36.
a1 + a12 3 + 36
S12 = 12 — (
2 ) (
= 12 — = 234
2 )
So, you need 234 cards to make a house of cards with 12 rows.
Find the sum.

10 12 20
7. ∑ 9i
i =1
8. ∑ (7k + 2) 9. ∑ (−4n + 6)
n =1
k =1
10. WHAT IF? In Example 6, how many cards do you need to make a house of cards
with eight rows?
Book 1.indb 421 4/10/18 2:25 PM


1. COMPLETE THE SENTENCE The constant difference between consecutive terms of an arithmetic
sequence is called the _______________.
2. DIFFERENT WORDS, SAME QUESTION Which is different? Find “both” answers.
What sequence consists of all the positive odd numbers?
What sequence starts with 1 and has a common difference of 2?
What sequence has an nth term of an = 1 + (n − 1)2?
What sequence has an nth term of an = 2n + 1?

In Exercises 3–10, tell whether the sequence is ERROR ANALYSIS In Exercises 21 and 22, describe and
arithmetic. Explain your reasoning. (See Example 1.) correct the error in writing a rule for the nth term of
the arithmetic sequence 22, 9, −4, −17, −30, . . ..
3. 1, −1, −3, −5, −7, . . . 4. 12, 6, 0, −6, −12, . . .
✗
21.
Use a1 = 22 and d = −13.
5. 5, 8, 13, 20, 29, . . . 6. 3, 5, 9, 15, 23, . . .
an = a1 + nd
9 9
7. 36, 18, 9, —2 , —4 , . . . 8. 81, 27, 9, 3, 1, . . . an = 22 + n (−13)
3 5 3 1 5 7 3
an = 22 − 13n
9. —12 , —4 , 1, —4 , —2 , . . . 10. —16 , —2 , —6 , —6 , —2 , . . .
✗
22.
11. WRITING EQUATIONS Write a rule for the arithmetic The first term is 22 and the common
sequence with the given description. difference is −13.
a. The first term is −3 and each term is 6 less than an = −13 + (n − 1)(22)
the previous term. an = −35 + 22n
b. The first term is 7 and each term is 5 more than the
previous term. In Exercises 23–28, write a rule for the nth term of the
sequence. Then graph the first six terms of the sequence.
12. WRITING Compare the terms of an arithmetic (See Example 3.)
sequence when d > 0 to when d < 0.
23. a11 = 43, d = 5 24. a13 = 42, d = 4
In Exercises 13–20, write a rule for the nth term of the
sequence. Then find a20. (See Example 2.) 25. a20 = −27, d = −2 26. a15 = −35, d = −3
13. 12, 20, 28, 36, . . . 14. 7, 12, 17, 22, . . . 27. a17 = −5, d = −—2
1
28. a21 = −25, d = −—2
3
15. 51, 48, 45, 42, . . . 16. 86, 79, 72, 65, . . . 29. USING EQUATIONS One term of an arithmetic
1 1 5 1 1 sequence is a8 = −13. The common difference
17. −1, −—3 , —3 , 1, . . . 18. −2, −—4 , −—2 , —4 , . . . is −8. What is a rule for the nth term of the sequence?
19. 2.3, 1.5, 0.7, −0.1, . . . 20. 11.7, 10.8, 9.9, 9, . . . A an = 51 + 8n
○ B an = 35 + 8n
○
C an = 51 − 8n
○ D an = 35 − 8n
○
Book 1.indb 422 4/10/18 2:25 PM

30. FINDING A PATTERN One term of an arithmetic 46. DRAWING CONCLUSIONS Describe how doubling
sequence is a12 = 43. The common difference each term in an arithmetic sequence changes the
is 6. What is another term of the sequence? common difference of the sequence. Justify
your answer.
A a3 = −11
○ B a4 = −53
○
C a5 = 13
○ D a6 = −47
○ In Exercises 47–52, find the sum. (See Example 5.)
20 26
In Exercises 31–38, write a rule for the nth term of the 47. ∑ (2i − 3)
i =1
48. ∑ (4i + 7)
i =1
arithmetic sequence. (See Example 4.)
31. a5 = 41, a10 = 96 33 31
49. ∑ (6 − 2i )
i =1
50. ∑ (−3 − 4i )
i =1
32. a7 = 58, a11 = 94
41 39
33. a6 = −8, a15 = −62

51. ∑ (−2.3 + 0.1i )
i =1
52. ∑ (−4.1 + 0.4i )
i =1
34. a8 = −15, a17 = −78 NUMBER SENSE In Exercises 53 and 54, find the sum of
the arithmetic sequence.
35. a18 = −59, a21 = −71
53. The first 19 terms of the sequence 9, 2, −5, −12, . . ..
36. a12 = −38, a19 = −73
54. The first 22 terms of the sequence 17, 9, 1, −7, . . ..
37. a8 = 12, a16 = 22
55. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS A marching
38. a12 = 9, a27 = 15 band is arranged in rows. The first row has three
band members, and each row after the first has
WRITING EQUATIONS In Exercises 39– 44, write a rule two more band members than the row before it.
for the sequence with the given terms. (See Example 6.)
39. an 40. an a. Write a rule for the number of band members in

(1, 9) 20
the nth row.
8
(2, 6) (1, 15)
(2, 10) b. How many band members are in a formation with
4 10
(3, 3) (3, 5) seven rows?
(4, 0) (4, 0)
2 4n 2 4 n
41. an 42. an
8
(4, 16)
(4, 5) 12
4
(3, 2)
(3, 9)
6
1 3 n
(2, −1) (2, 2)
−4
(1, −4) 2 4n 56. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS Domestic bees
(1, −5) make their honeycomb by starting with a single
−8 −6
hexagonal cell, then forming ring after ring of
hexagonal cells around the initial cell, as shown.
43. The number of cells in successive rings forms an
n 4 5 6 7 8
arithmetic sequence.
an 25 29 33 37 41
44.
n 4 5 6 7 8
Initial 1 ring 2 rings
an 31 39 47 55 63 cell
a. Write a rule for the number of cells in the nth ring.

45. WRITING Compare the graph of an = 3n + 1,
where n is a positive integer, with the graph of b. How many cells are in the honeycomb after the
f (x) = 3x + 1, where x is a real number. ninth ring is formed?
Book 1.indb 423 4/10/18 2:25 PM

57. MATHEMATICAL CONNECTIONS A quilt is made 60. THOUGHT PROVOKING In number theory, the
up of strips of cloth, starting with an inner square Dirichlet Prime Number Theorem states that if a and b
surrounded by rectangles to form successively larger are relatively prime, then the arithmetic sequence
squares. The inner square and all rectangles have a
a, a + b, a + 2b, a + 3b, . . .
width of 1 foot. Write an expression using summation
notation that gives the sum of the areas of all the strips contains infinitely many prime numbers. Find the first
of cloth used to make the quilt shown. Then evaluate 10 primes in the sequence when a = 3 and b = 4.
the expression.
61. REASONING Find the sum of the positive odd integers

less than 300. Explain your reasoning.
62. USING EQUATIONS Find the value of n.

n n
a. ∑ (3i + 5) = 544
i =1
b. ∑ (−4i − 1) = −1127
i =1
n n
58. HOW DO YOU SEE IT? Which graph(s) represents an c. ∑ (7 + 12i) = 455 d. ∑ (−3 − 4i) = −507
i =3
i =5
arithmetic sequence? Explain your reasoning.
a. an b. an 63. ABSTRACT REASONING A theater has n rows of seats,
and each row has d more seats than the row in front of
6 12
it. There are x seats in the last (nth) row and a total of
4 8
y seats in the entire theater. How many seats are in the
front row of the theater? Write your answer in terms
2 4 of n, x, and y.
2 4 6n 2 4 6n 64. CRITICAL THINKING The expressions 3 − x, x,

and 1 − 3x are the first three terms in an arithmetic
c. an d. an sequence. Find the value of x and the next term in
the sequence.
8 2
4
65. CRITICAL THINKING One of the major sources of our
2 n knowledge of Egyptian mathematics is the Ahmes
−2 papyrus, which is a scroll copied in 1650 B.C. by an
2 4 6n
Egyptian scribe. The following problem is from the
Ahmes papyrus.
Divide 10 hekats of barley among 10 men so that
59. MAKING AN ARGUMENT Your friend believes the the common difference is —18 of a hekat of barley.
sum of a series doubles when the common difference Use what you know about arithmetic sequences and
of an arithmetic series is doubled and the first term series to determine what portion of a hekat each man
and number of terms in the series remain unchanged. should receive.
Is your friend correct? Explain your reasoning.
Simplify the expression. (Section 5.2)

7 3−2
66. —
1/3
67. —
−4
7 3
( 499 ) ⋅
1/2
68. — 69. (51/2 51/4)
Tell whether the function represents exponential growth or exponential decay. Then graph the
function. (Section 6.2)
70. y = 2ex 71. y = e−3x 72. y = 3e−x 73. y = e0.25x
Book 1.indb 424 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.3 Analyzing Geometric Sequences
and Series
Essential Question How can you recognize a geometric
sequence from its graph?
In a geometric sequence, the ratio of any term to the previous term, called the
FLORIDA
DA common ratio, is constant. For example, in the geometric sequence 1, 2, 4, 8, . . . ,
STANDARDS
ARDS the common ratio is 2.
MAFS.912.A-SSE.2.4
2 A SSE 2 4
MAFS.912.F-IF.1.3 Recognizing Graphs of Geometric Sequences
MAFS.912.F-BF.1.2
MAFS.912.F-LE.1.2 Work with a partner. Determine whether each graph shows a geometric sequence.
If it does, then write a rule for the nth term of the sequence and use a spreadsheet to
find the sum of the first 20 terms. What do you notice about the graph of a geometric
sequence?
a. an b. an
16 16
12 12
8 8
4 4
2 4 6n 2 4 6n
c. an d. an
16 16
12 12
8 8
4 4
2 4 6n
LOOKING FOR 2 4 6n
REGULARITY IN
REPEATED Finding the Sum of a Geometric Sequence
REASONING Work with a partner. You can write the nth term of a geometric sequence with first
To be proficient in math, term a1 and common ratio r as
you need to notice when an = a1r n − 1.
calculations are repeated,
and look both for So, you can write the sum Sn of the first n terms of a geometric sequence as
general methods and Sn = a1 + a1r + a1r 2 + a1r 3 + . . . + a1r n − 1.
for shortcuts.
Rewrite this formula by finding the difference Sn − rSn and solving for Sn. Then verify
your rewritten formula by finding the sums of the first 20 terms of the geometric sequences
in Exploration 1. Compare your answers to those you obtained using a spreadsheet.

3. How can you recognize a geometric sequence from its graph?
4. Find the sum of the terms of each geometric sequence.
a. 1, 2, 4, 8, . . . , 8192 b. 0.1, 0.01, 0.001, 0.0001, . . . , 10−10
Section 8.3 Analyzing Geometric Sequences and Series 425
Book 1.indb 425 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Identify geometric sequences.
Write rules for geometric sequences.
Core Vocabul
Vocabulary
larry Find sums of finite geometric series.
geometric sequence, p. 426
common ratio, p. 426
Identifying Geometric Sequences
geometric series, p. 428
In a geometric sequence, the ratio of any term to the previous term is constant.
Previous This constant ratio is called the common ratio and is denoted by r.
exponential function
properties of exponents
Identifying Geometric Sequences
Tell whether each sequence is geometric.

a. 6, 12, 20, 30, 42, . . .
b. 256, 64, 16, 4, 1, . . .
SOLUTION
Find the ratios of consecutive terms.
a 12 a 20 5 a 30 3 a 42 7
a. —2 = — = 2 —3 = — = — —4 = — = — —5 = — = —
a1 6 a2 12 3 a3 20 2 a4 30 5
The ratios are not constant, so the sequence is not geometric.
a 64 1 a 16 1 a 4 1 a 1
b. —2 = — = — —3 = — = — —4 = — = — —5 = —
a1 256 4 a2 64 4 a3 16 4 a4 4
Each ratio is —14 , so the sequence is geometric.
Tell whether the sequence is geometric. Explain your reasoning.
1
1. 27, 9, 3, 1, —, . . . 2. 2, 6, 24, 120, 720, . . . 3. −1, 2, −4, 8, −16, . . .
3
Writing Rules for Geometric Sequences
Core Concept
Rule for a Geometric Sequence
Algebra The nth term of a geometric sequence with first term a1 and common
ratio r is given by:
an = a1r n − 1
Example The nth term of a geometric sequence with a first term of 2 and a
common ratio of 3 is given by:
an = 2(3)n − 1
Book 1.indb 426 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Writing a Rule for the n th Term
Write a rule for the nth term of each sequence. Then find a8.
a. 5, 15, 45, 135, . . . b. 88, −44, 22, −11, . . .
COMMON ERROR SOLUTION
In the general rule for a 15
a. The sequence is geometric with first term a1 = 5 and common ratio r = —5
= 3.
geometric sequence, note
that the exponent is So, a rule for the nth term is
n − 1, not n.
an = a1r n − 1 Write general rule.
= 5(3)n − 1. Substitute 5 for a1 and 3 for r.
A rule is an = 5(3)n − 1, and the 8th term is a8 = 5(3)8 − 1 = 10,935.
b. The sequence is geometric with first term a1 = 88 and common ratio

−44 1
r = — = −—. So, a rule for the nth term is
88 2
n−1
1
= 88 −—
2 ( ) .
1
Substitute 88 for a1 and −— for r.
2
n−1 8−1
1
A rule is an = 88 −—
2 ( ) 1
, and the 8th term is a8 = 88 −—
2 ( ) 11
= −—.
16
4. Write a rule for the nth term of the sequence 3, 15, 75, 375, . . .. Then find a9.
Writing a Rule Given a Term and Common Ratio
One term of a geometric sequence is a4 = 12. The common ratio is r = 2. Write a rule
for the nth term. Then graph the first six terms of the sequence.
SOLUTION
Step 1 Use the general rule to find the first term.
a4 = a1 r4 − 1 Substitute 4 for n.
ANALYZING 12 = a1(2)3 Substitute 12 for a4 and 2 for r.
RELATIONSHIPS 1.5 = a1 Solve for a1.
Notice that the points lie
on an exponential curve Step 2 Write a rule for the nth term.
because consecutive terms an = a1r n − 1 Write general rule.
change by equal factors.
So, a geometric sequence = 1.5(2)n − 1 Substitute 1.5 for a1 and 2 for r.
in which r > 0 and r ≠ 1 Step 3 Use the rule to create a table of values for
is an exponential function the sequence. Then plot the points. an
whose domain is a subset 40
of the integers. n 1 2 3 4 5 6
20
an 1.5 3 6 12 24 48
2 4 6n
Book 1.indb 427 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Writing a Rule Given Two Terms
Two terms of a geometric sequence are a2 = 12 and a5 = −768. Write a rule for the
nth term.
SOLUTION
Step 1 Write a system of equations using an = a1r n − 1. Substitute 2 for n to write
Equation 1. Substitute 5 for n to write Equation 2.
a2 = a1r 2 − 1 12 = a1r Equation 1
a5 = a1r 5 − 1 −768 = a1r 4 Equation 2
12
Step 2 Solve the system. — = a1 Solve Equation 1 for a1.
r
Check
12
−768 = — (r 4) Substitute for a1 in Equation 2.
Use the rule to verify that the r
2nd term is 12 and the 5th term
−768 = 12r 3 Simplify.
is −768.
a2 = −3(−4)2 − 1 −4 = r Solve for r.
= −3(−4) = 12 ✓ 12 = a1(−4) Substitute for r in Equation 1.
a5 = −3(−4)5 − 1 −3 = a1 Solve for a1.
= −3(256) = −768 ✓ Step 3 Write a rule for an. an = a1r n − 1 Write general rule.
= −3(−4)n − 1 Substitute for a1 and r.
Write a rule for the nth term of the sequence. Then graph the first six terms of
the sequence.
5. a6 = −96, r = −2 6. a2 = 12, a4 = 3
Finding Sums of Finite Geometric Series

The expression formed by adding the terms of a geometric sequence is called a
geometric series. The sum of the first n terms of a geometric series is denoted by Sn.
You can develop a rule for Sn as follows.
S = a + a r + a r2 + a r3 + . . . + a rn − 1
n 1 1 1 1 1
−rSn = − a1r − a1 − a1 − . . . − a1r n − 1 − a1r n

r2 r3
Sn − rSn = a1 + 0 + 0 + 0 + . . . + 0 − a1r n
Sn(1 − r) = a1(1 − r n)
When r ≠ 1, you can divide each side of this equation by 1 − r to obtain the following
rule for Sn.
Core Concept
The Sum of a Finite Geometric Series
The sum of the first n terms of a geometric series with common ratio r ≠ 1 is
1 − rn .
Sn = a1 —
1−r( )
Book 1.indb 428 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Finding the Sum of a Geometric Series
10
Find the sum ∑ 4(3) k − 1.
k =1
SOLUTION
Step 1 Find the first term and the common ratio.
Check a1 = 4(3)1 − 1 = 4 Identify first term.
Use a graphing calculator to r=3 Identify common ratio.
check the sum.
Step 2 Find the sum.
sum(seq(4*3^(X-1
),X,1,10))
118096 S10 = a1 —
1−r (
1 − r 10
) Write rule for S10.
(
1 − 310
=4 —
1−3 ) Substitute 4 for a1 and 3 for r.
= 118,096 Simplify.
You can calculate the monthly payment M (in dollars) for a loan using the formula
L
M=—
t
1 k
∑— ( )
k =1 1 + i
where L is the loan amount (in dollars), i is the monthly interest rate (in decimal form),
and t is the term (in months). Calculate the monthly payment on a 5-year loan for
$20,000 with an annual interest rate of 6%.
USING SOLUTION
TECHNOLOGY Step 1 Substitute for L, i, and t. The loan amount 20,000
is L = 20,000, the monthly interest rate M = ——
Storing the value of 60 k
1
— helps minimize
1.005
0.06
is i = — = 0.005, and the term is
12
∑— ( 1
k =1 1 + 0.005
)
mistakes and also assures t = 5(12) = 60.
an accurate answer.
Rounding this value to Step 2 Notice that the denominator is a geometric 1/1.005 R
.9950248756
0.995 results in a monthly 1 R((1-R^60)/(1-R)
series with first term — and common
payment of $386.94. 1.005 )
1 51.72556075
ratio —. Use a calculator to find the
1.005 20000/Ans
386.6560306
monthly payment.
So, the monthly payment is $386.66.
Find the sum.

8 12 7
7. ∑ 5k − 1 8. ∑ 6(−2)i − 1
i =1
9. ∑ −16(0.5)t − 1
t =1
k =1
10. WHAT IF? In Example 6, how does the monthly payment change when the
annual interest rate is 5%?
Book 1.indb 429 4/10/18 2:25 PM


1. COMPLETE THE SENTENCE The constant ratio of consecutive terms in a geometric sequence is
called the __________.
2. WRITING How can you determine whether a sequence is geometric from its graph?
3. COMPLETE THE SENTENCE The nth term of a geometric sequence has the form an = ___________.
4. VOCABULARY State the rule for the sum of the first n terms of a geometric series.

In Exercises 5–12, tell whether the sequence is In Exercises 23–30, write a rule for the nth term of the
geometric. Explain your reasoning. (See Example 1.) sequence. Then graph the first six terms of the sequence.
(See Example 3.)
5. 96, 48, 24, 12, 6, . . . 6. 729, 243, 81, 27, 9, . . .
23. a3 = 4, r = 2 24. a3 = 27, r = 3
7. 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, . . . 8. 5, 20, 35, 50, 65, . . .
1 1
25. a2 = 30, r = —2 26. a2 = 64, r = —4
9. 0.2, 3.2, −12.8, 51.2, −204.8, . . .
27. a4 = −192, r = 4 28. a4 = −500, r = 5
10. 0.3, −1.5, 7.5, −37.5, 187.5, . . .
1 1
29. a5 = 3, r = −—3 30. a5 = 1, r = −—5
1 1 1 1 1
11. —, —, —, —, —, . . .
2 6 18 54 162
ERROR ANALYSIS In Exercises 31 and 32, describe and
1 1 1 1 1
12. —, —, —, —, —, . . . correct the error in writing a rule for the nth term of
4 16 64 256 1024
the geometric sequence for which a2 = 48 and r = 6.
✗
13. WRITING EQUATIONS Write a rule for the geometric 31. an = a1r n
sequence with the given description.
48 = a162
a. The first term is −3, and each term is 5 times the 4
— = a1
previous term. 3
b. The first term is 72, and each term is —13 times the an = —43 (6)n
previous term.
✗
32.
14. WRITING Compare the terms of a geometric sequence an = r (a1)n − 1
when r > 1 to when 0 < r < 1. 48 = 6(a1)2 − 1
8 = a1
an = 6(8)n − 1
sequence. Then find a7. (See Example 2.)
15. 4, 20, 100, 500, . . . 16. 6, 24, 96, 384, . . .
geometric sequence. (See Example 4.)
17. 112, 56, 28, 14, . . . 18. 375, 75, 15, 3, . . .
33. a2 = 28, a5 = 1792 34. a1 = 11, a4 = 88
27 3 9 27
19. 4, 6, 9, —
2
,... 20. 2, —2 , —8 , —
32
,...
35. a1 = −6, a5 = −486 36. a2 = −10, a6 = −6250
21. 1.3, −3.9, 11.7, −35.1, . . .
37. a2 = 64, a4 = 1 38. a1 = 1, a2 = 49
22. 1.5, −7.5, 37.5, −187.5, . . .
1 3
39. a2 = −72, a6 = −—
18 40. a2 = −48, a5 = —4
Book 1.indb 430 4/10/18 2:25 PM

WRITING EQUATIONS In Exercises 41– 46, write a rule 56. ABSTRACT REASONING Use the rule for the sum of a
for the sequence with the given terms. finite geometric series to write each polynomial as a
an an
rational expression.
41. 32
42.
128
(4, 32) (4, 135) a. 1 + x + x2 + x3 + x4
24 96
b. 3x + 6x3 + 12x5 + 24x7
(3, 16)
16 64
(3, 45) MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS In Exercises 57 and 58,
(2, 8) (1, 5)
8 32
(2, 15)
use the monthly payment formula given in Example 6.
(1, 4) 57. You are buying a new car. You take out a 5-year loan
2 4 n 2 4n
for $15,000. The annual interest rate of the loan is 4%.
Calculate the monthly payment. (See Example 6.)
43. an 44. an
8 48
(1, 48) 58. You are buying a new house. You take out a 30-year
6 36 mortgage for $200,000. The annual interest rate of the
(1, 5)
loan is 4.5%. Calculate the monthly payment.
4 24
(2, 2.5) (2, 12)

2 12
(3, 1.25) (4, 0.75)
(4, 0.625) (3, 3)
2 4 n 2 4 n
45. n 2 3 4 5 6
an −12 24 −48 96 −192
46. n 2 3 4 5 6 59. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS A regional soccer

tournament has 64 participating teams. In the first
an −21 63 −189 567 −1701 round of the tournament, 32 games are played. In each
successive round, the number of games decreases by
a factor of —12 .
In Exercises 47–52, find the sum. (See Example 5.)
9 10
a. Write a rule for the number of games played in the
47. ∑ 6(7)i − 1
i =1
48. ∑ 7(4)i − 1
i =1
nth round. For what values of n does the rule make
sense? Explain.
10 i−1 8 i−1 b. Find the total number of games played in the
49. (3)
∑4 —
i =1 4
50. (1)
∑5 —
i =1 3
regional soccer tournament.
8 i 9 i 60. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS In a skydiving

∑ 8( −3 ) ∑ 9( −4 )
2 3
51. — 52. —
i= 0 i =0
formation with R rings, each ring after the first has
twice as many skydivers as the preceding ring. The
formation for R = 2 is shown.
NUMBER SENSE In Exercises 53 and 54, find the sum.
53. The first 8 terms of the geometric sequence

−12, −48, −192, −768, . . ..
54. The first 9 terms of the geometric sequence

−14, −42, −126, −378, . . ..
55. WRITING Compare the graph of an = 5(3)n − 1, where

n is a positive integer, to the graph of f (x) = 5 3 x − 1,
where x is a real number.
⋅
a. Let an be the number of skydivers in the nth ring.
Write a rule for an.
b. Find the total number of skydivers when there are
four rings.
Book 1.indb 431 4/10/18 2:25 PM

61. PROBLEM SOLVING The Sierpinski carpet is a fractal 64. THOUGHT PROVOKING The first four iterations of the
created using squares. The process involves removing fractal called the Koch snowflake are shown below.
smaller squares from larger squares. First, divide Find the perimeter and area of each iteration. Do
a large square into nine congruent squares. Then the perimeters and areas form geometric sequences?
remove the center square. Repeat these steps for each Explain your reasoning.
smaller square, as shown below. Assume that each
side of the initial square is 1 unit long.
1 1
Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 65. MAKING AN ARGUMENT You and your friend are
comparing two loan options for a $165,000 house.
a. Let an be the total number of squares removed at Loan 1 is a 15-year loan with an annual interest
the nth stage. Write a rule for an. Then find the rate of 3%. Loan 2 is a 30-year loan with an annual
total number of squares removed through Stage 8. interest rate of 4%. Your friend claims the total
amount repaid over the loan will be less for Loan 2.
b. Let bn be the remaining area of the original square
Is your friend correct? Justify your answer.
after the nth stage. Write a rule for bn. Then find
the remaining area of the original square after
66. CRITICAL THINKING Let L be the amount of a loan
Stage 12.
(in dollars), i be the monthly interest rate (in decimal
form), t be the term (in months), and M be the
62. HOW DO YOU SEE IT? Match each sequence with its monthly payment (in dollars).
graph. Explain your reasoning. a. When making monthly payments, you are paying
n−1 the loan amount plus the interest the loan gathers
1
a. an = 10 —
2 () b. an = 10(2)n − 1 each month. For a 1-month loan, t = 1, the
equation for repayment is L(1 + i) − M = 0.
A. an
B. an For a 2-month loan, t = 2, the equation is
80 16
[L(1 + i) − M](1 + i) − M = 0. Solve both of
60 12 these repayment equations for L.
40 8
b. Use the pattern in the equations you solved in part
(a) to write a repayment equation for a t-month
20 4 loan. (Hint: L is equal to M times a geometric
series.) Then solve the equation for M.
2 4 n 2 4 n
c. Use the rule for the sum of a finite geometric
series to show that the formula in part (b) is
equivalent to
63. CRITICAL THINKING On January 1, you deposit $2000
in a retirement account that pays 5% annual interest.
You make this deposit each January 1 for the next 30
M = L ——( i
1 − (1 + i)−t
. )
years. How much money do you have in your account Use this formula to check your answers in
immediately after you make your last deposit? Exercises 57 and 58.
Graph the function. State the domain and range. (Section 7.2)
1 2
67. f (x) = — 68. g(x) = — + 3
x−3 x
1 3
69. h(x) = — + 1 70. p(x) = — − 2
x−2 x+1
Book 1.indb 432 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.1–8.3 What Did You Learn?
Core Vocabulary
sequence, p. 410 sigma notation, p. 412 geometric sequence, p. 426
terms of a sequence, p. 410 arithmetic sequence, p. 418 common ratio, p. 426
series, p. 412 common difference, p. 418 geometric series, p. 428
summation notation, p. 412 arithmetic series, p. 420
Core Concepts
Section 8.1
Sequences, p. 410
Series and Summation Notation, p. 412
Formulas for Special Series, p. 413
Section 8.2
Rule for an Arithmetic Sequence, p. 418
The Sum of a Finite Arithmetic Series, p. 420
Section 8.3
Rule for a Geometric Sequence, p. 426
The Sum of a Finite Geometric Series, p. 428
Mathematical Practices
1. Explain how viewing each arrangement as individual tables can be helpful
in Exercise 29 on page 415.
2. How can you use tools to find the sum of the arithmetic series in Exercises 53 and 54
on page 423?
3. How did understanding the domain of each function help you to compare the graphs
in Exercise 55 on page 431?
Study Skills
Keeping Your
Mind Focused
• Before doing homework, review the concept boxes and
examples. Talk through the examples out loud.
• Complete homework as though you were also preparing
for a quiz. Memorize the different types of problems,
formulas, rules, and so on.
433
Book 1.indb 433 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.1–8.3 Quiz
Describe the pattern, write the next term, and write a rule for the nth term of the
sequence. (Section 8.1)
1 2 3 4
1. 1, 7, 13, 19, . . . 2. −5, 10, −15, 20, . . . 3. —, —, —, —, . . .
20 30 40 50
Write the series using summation notation. Then find the sum of the series. (Section 8.1)
1 2 3 7
4. 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + . . . + 15 5. 0 + — + — + — + . . . + — 6. 9 + 16 + 25 + . . . + 100
2 3 4 8
Write a rule for the nth term of the sequence. (Sections 8.2 and 8.3)
7. an 8. an 9. an
8 (5, 8) (1, 1)
3
2 (5, 1.25) 4 n
6
(2, −1)
1 (3, 0.75) −2
(4, 1) (4, 4) (3, −3)
4
1
(2, 0.5) (1, 0.5) −4
2 (4, −5)
(1, 0.25) 2 (3, 2)
−6
2 4 n (2, 1) (5, −7)
2 4 n
Tell whether the sequence is arithmetic, geometric, or neither. Write a rule for the nth term
of the sequence. Then find a9. (Sections 8.2 and 8.3)
1 1 1 1
10. 13, 6, −1, −8, . . . 11. —, —, —, —, . . . 12. 1, −3, 9, −27, . . .
2 3 4 5
13. One term of an arithmetic sequence is a12 = 19. The common difference is d = 7. Write a
rule for the nth term. Then graph the first six terms of the sequence. (Section 8.2)
14. Two terms of a geometric sequence are a6 = −50 and a9 = −6250. Write a rule for the
nth term. (Section 8.3)
Find the sum. (Sections 8.2 and 8.3)

9 5 12 i+3
15. ∑ (3n + 5)
n =1
16. ∑ 11(−3)k − 2
k =1
17.
i =1
(1)
∑ −4 —2
18. Pieces of chalk are stacked in a pile. Part of the pile is shown. The
bottom row has 15 pieces of chalk, and the top row has 6 pieces of
chalk. Each row has one less piece of chalk than the row below it. How
many pieces of chalk are in the pile? (Section 8.2)
19. You accept a job as an environmental engineer that pays a salary

of $45,000 in the first year. After the first year, your salary increases
by 3.5% per year. (Section 8.3)
a. Write a rule giving your salary an for your nth year of employment.
b. What will your salary be during your fifth year of employment?
c. You work 10 years for the company. What are your total earnings?
Book 1.indb 434 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.4 Finding Sums of Infinite
Geometric Series
FLORIDA
DA
Essential Question How can you find the sum of an infinite
geometric series?
STANDARDS
ARDS
MAFS.912.A-SSE.2.4
2 A SSE 2 4 Finding Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
Work with a partner. Enter each geometric series in a spreadsheet. Then use the
USING TOOLS spreadsheet to determine whether the infinite geometric series has a finite sum. If it
does, find the sum. Explain your reasoning. (The figure shows a partially completed
STRATEGICALLY spreadsheet for part (a).)
To be proficient in
math, you need to use 1 1 1 1 A B
a. 1 + — + — + — + — + . . .
technological tools, 2 4 8 16 1 1 1
such as a spreadsheet, 2 2 0.5
1 1 1 1 3
to explore and deepen b. 1 + — + — + — + — + . . . 3 0.25
3 9 27 81 4 4 0.125
your understanding
of concepts. 3 9 27 81 5 5 0.0625
c. 1 + — + — + — + — + . . . 6 6 0.03125
2 4 8 16
7 7
5 25 125 625
d. 1 + — + — + — + — + . . . 8 8
4 16 64 256 9 9
4 16 64 256 10 10
e. 1 + — + — + — + — + . . . 11 11
5 25 125 625
12 12
9 81 729 6561 13 13
f. 1 + — + — + — + — + . . .
10 100 1000 10,000 14 14
15 15
16 Sum
Writing a Conjecture
Work with a partner. Look back at the infinite geometric series in Exploration 1.
Write a conjecture about how you can determine whether the infinite geometric series
a1 + a1r + a1r2 + a1r3 + . . .
has a finite sum.
Writing a Formula
Work with a partner. In Lesson 8.3, you learned that the sum of the first n terms of a
geometric series with first term a1 and common ratio r ≠ 1 is
1 − rn
(
Sn = a1 — .
1−r )
When an infinite geometric series has a finite sum, what happens to r n as n increases?
Explain your reasoning. Write a formula to find the sum of an infinite geometric series.
Then verify your formula by checking the sums you obtained in Exploration 1.

4. How can you find the sum of an infinite geometric series?
5. Find the sum of each infinite geometric series, if it exists.
4 8 16 32
a. 1 + 0.1 + 0.01 + 0.001 + 0.0001 + . . . b. 2 + — + — + — + — + . . .
3 9 27 81
Section 8.4 Finding Sums of Infinite Geometric Series 435
Book 1.indb 435 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Find partial sums of infinite geometric series.
Find sums of infinite geometric series.
Core Vocabul
Vocabulary
larry
partial sum, p. 436 Partial Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
Previous The sum Sn of the first n terms of an infinite series is called a partial sum. The partial
repeating decimal sums of an infinite geometric series may approach a limiting value.
fraction in simplest form
rational number
Finding Partial Sums
Consider the infinite geometric series

1 1 1 1 1
— + — + — + — + — + . . ..
2 4 8 16 32
Find and graph the partial sums Sn for n = 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Then describe what
happens to Sn as n increases.
SOLUTION
Step 1 Find the partial sums.
1
S1 = — = 0.5
2
1 1
S2 = — + — = 0.75
2 4
1 1 1
S3 = — + — + — ≈ 0.88
2 4 8 Sn
1 1 1 1 1.0
S4 = — + — + — + — ≈ 0.94
2 4 8 16
0.8
1 1 1 1 1
S5 = — + — + — + — + — ≈ 0.97 0.6
2 4 8 16 32
Step 2 Plot the points (1, 0.5), (2, 0.75), 0.4
(3, 0.88), (4, 0.94), and (5, 0.97).
0.2
The graph is shown at the right.
From the graph, Sn appears to approach 1 2 3 4 5 n

1 as n increases.
Sums of Infinite Geometric Series

In Example 1, you can understand why Sn approaches 1 as n increases by considering
the rule for the sum of a finite geometric series.
( )
n
1−
1
1− — () n
( 1
2
rn 2
1
1−—
) 1
S n = a1 — = — — = 1 − —
1−r 2 ()
2
n
()
1
As n increases, — approaches 0, so Sn approaches 1. Therefore, 1 is defined to be the
2
sum of the infinite geometric series in Example 1. More generally, as n increases for
any infinite geometric series with common ratio r between −1 and 1, the value of Sn
approaches
1 − rn 1−0
(
Sn = a1 — ≈ a1 — = —
1−r 1−r
a1
1−r ) (
. )
Book 1.indb 436 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Core Concept
The Sum of an Infinite Geometric Series
UNDERSTANDING The sum of an infinite geometric series with first term a1 and common ratio r is
MATHEMATICAL given by
a1
TERMS S=—
1−r
Even though a geometric
series with a common provided ∣ r ∣ < 1. If ∣ r ∣ ≥ 1, then the series has no sum.
ratio of ∣ r ∣ < 1 has
infinitely many terms, the
series has a finite sum. Finding Sums of Infinite Geometric Series
Find the sum of each infinite geometric series.

∞
3 9 27
a. ∑ 3(0.7)i − 1
i =1
b. 1 + 3 + 9 + 27 + . . . c. 1 − — + — − — + . . .
4 16 64
SOLUTION
a. For this series, a1 = 3(0.7)1 − 1 = 3 and r = 0.7. The sum of the series is
a1
S=— Formula for sum of an infinite geometric series
1−r
3
=— Substitute 3 for a1 and 0.7 for r.
1 − 0.7
= 10. Simplify.
3
b. For this series, a1 = 1 and a2 = 3. So, the common ratio is r = — = 3.
1
STUDY TIP Because ∣ 3 ∣ ≥ 1, the sum does not exist.
For the geometric series 3
in part (b), the graph of the c. For this series, a1 = 1 and a2 = −—. So, the common ratio is
4
partial sums Sn for 3
n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 are −—
4 3
shown. From the graph, it r = — = −—.
1 4
appears that as n increases,
the partial sums do not The sum of the series is
approach a fixed number. a1
400 1−r
1 3
=— Substitute 1 for a1 and −— for r.
4
1 − −—
3
4 ( )
4
0 7 = —. Simplify.
7
−50
1. Consider the infinite geometric series

2 4 8 16 32
—+—+—+—+—+....
5 25 125 1625 3125
Find and graph the partial sums Sn for n = 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Then describe what
happens to Sn as n increases.
Find the sum of the infinite geometric series, if it exists.
∞ n−1 ∞ n−1
2. ∑ −—2
n =1
( 1) 3. ∑3 —(5)
n =1 4
3 3 3
4. 3 + — + — + — + . . .
4 16 64
Book 1.indb 437 4/10/18 2:25 PM

A pendulum that is released to swing freely travels 18 inches on the first swing. On
each successive swing, the pendulum travels 80% of the distance of the previous
swing. What is the total distance the pendulum swings?
18 18(0.8) 18(0.8) 2 18(0.8) 3
SOLUTION
The total distance traveled by the pendulum is given by the infinite geometric series
18 + 18(0.8) + 18(0.8)2 + 18(0.8)3 + . . . .
For this series, a1 = 18 and r = 0.8. The sum of the series is
a1
1−r
18
=— Substitute 18 for a1 and 0.8 for r.
1 − 0.8
REMEMBER = 90. Simplify.
Because a repeating
decimal is a rational The pendulum travels a total distance of 90 inches, or 7.5 feet.
number, it can be written
a
as —, where a and b are Writing a Repeating Decimal as a Fraction
b
integers and b ≠ 0.
Write 0.242424 . . . as a fraction in simplest form.
SOLUTION
Write the repeating decimal as an infinite geometric series.
0.242424 . . . = 0.24 + 0.0024 + 0.000024 + 0.00000024 + . . .
0.0024
For this series, a1 = 0.24 and r = — = 0.01. Next, write the sum of the series.
0.24
a1
1−r
0.24
=— Substitute 0.24 for a1 and 0.01 for r.
1 − 0.01
0.24
=— Simplify.
0.99
24
=— Write as a quotient of integers.
99
8
=— Simplify.
33
5. WHAT IF? In Example 3, suppose the pendulum travels 10 inches on its first
swing. What is the total distance the pendulum swings?
Write the repeating decimal as a fraction in simplest form.
6. 0.555 . . . 7. 0.727272 . . . 8. 0.131313 . . .
Book 1.indb 438 4/10/18 2:25 PM


1. COMPLETE THE SENTENCE The sum Sn of the first n terms of an infinite series is called
a(n) ________.
∞
2. WRITING Explain how to tell whether the series ∑ a1r i − 1 has a sum.
i =1

8 16 32
In Exercises 3–6, consider the infinite geometric series. 16. 4 + — + — + — + . . .
3 9 27
Find and graph the partial sums Sn for n = 1, 2, 3, 4,
✗
and 5. Then describe what happens to Sn as n increases.
4 = 3.
For this series, a1 = 4 and r = —
(See Example 1.)
8 —2
1 1 1 1 1 —
3. — + — + — + — + — + . . . 3
∣ —32 ∣ > 1, the series has no sum.

2 6 18 54 162
2 1 1 1 1 Because
4. — + — + — + — + — + . . .
3 3 6 12 24
12 36 108 324
5. 4 + — + — + — + — + . . .
5 25 125 625
2 2 2 2 17. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS You push your
6. 2 + — + — + — + — + . . . younger cousin on a tire swing one time and then
6 36 216 1296
allow your cousin to swing freely. On the first swing,
In Exercises 7–14, find the sum of the infinite geometric your cousin travels a distance of 14 feet. On each
series, if it exists. (See Example 2.) successive swing, your cousin travels 75% of the
∞ n−1 ∞ k−1 distance of the previous swing. What is the total
7. ∑8 ( 15 )
n =1
— 8. ∑ −6
k =1
( 32 )— distance your cousin swings? (See Example 3.)
∞ k−1 ∞ i−1
∑ 3 (8) ∑5 (3)
11 3 2 5
9. — — 10. — —
k =1 i =1
18 54
6
11. 2 + — + — + — + . . . 14(0.75) 14(0.75) 2
4
16 64
4 8
12. −5 − 2 − — − — − . . .
5 25 18. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS A company had
5 25 125 a profit of $350,000 in its first year. Since then, the
13. 3 + — + — + — + . . . company’s profit has decreased by 12% per year.
2 12 72
1 5 50 500 Assuming this trend continues, what is the total profit
14. — − — + — − — + . . . the company can make over the course of its lifetime?
2 3 9 27
ERROR ANALYSIS In Exercises 15 and 16, describe
and correct the error in finding the sum of the infinite In Exercises 19–24, write the repeating decimal as a
geometric series. fraction in simplest form. (See Example 4.)
∞ n−1
15. ∑ —
n =1 2
(7) 19. 0.222 . . . 20. 0.444 . . .
21. 0.161616 . . . 22. 0.625625625 . . .
✗ S=—
a1 1
= — = — = −—
1
7
For this series, a1 = 1 and r = —.
2
2
23. 32.323232 . . . 24. 130.130130130 . . .
1 − r 1 − —7 −—5 5 25. PROBLEM SOLVING Find two infinite geometric

2 2 series whose sums are each 6. Justify your answers.
Book 1.indb 439 4/10/18 2:25 PM

26. HOW DO YOU SEE IT? Sn 29. DRAWING CONCLUSIONS Can a person running at
1.8
The graph shows the partial 20 feet per second ever catch up to a tortoise that runs
sums of the geometric series 1.2 10 feet per second when the tortoise has a 20-foot
a1 + a2 + a3 + a4 + . . . . head start? The Greek mathematician Zeno said no.
∞ 0.6 He reasoned as follows:
What is the value of ∑ an?
n =1
Explain.
2 4 6n
The person will keep
halving the distance
but will never catch
up to the tortoise.
27. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS A radio station has
a daily contest in which a random listener is asked
a trivia question. On the first day, the station gives
$500 to the first listener who answers correctly. On 20 ft 10 ft
each successive day, the winner receives 90% of the
winnings from the previous day. What is the total Looking at the race as Zeno did, the distances and the
amount of prize money the radio station gives away times it takes the person to run those distances both
during the contest? form infinite geometric series. Using the table, show
that both series have finite sums. Does the person
catch up to the tortoise? Justify your answer.
28. THOUGHT PROVOKING Archimedes used the sum
of a geometric series to compute the area enclosed Distance (ft) 20 10 5 2.5 ...
by a parabola and a straight line. In “Quadrature of
the Parabola,” he proved that the area of the region Time (sec) 1 0.5 0.25 0.125 ...
is —43 the area of the inscribed triangle. The first term
of the series for the parabola below is represented 30. MAKING AN ARGUMENT Your friend claims that
by the area of the blue triangle and the second term 0.999 . . . is equal to 1. Is your friend correct? Justify
is represented by the area of the red triangles. Use your answer.
Archimedes’ result to find the area of the region.
Then write the area as the sum of an infinite 31. CRITICAL THINKING The Sierpinski triangle is a
geometric series. fractal created using equilateral triangles. The process
y
involves removing smaller triangles from larger
triangles by joining the midpoints of the sides of the
larger triangles as shown. Assume that the initial
3
triangle has an area of 1 square foot.
1
Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3
−2 −1 1 2x
a. Let an be the total area of all the triangles that are
removed at Stage n. Write a rule for an.
∞
b. Find ∑ an. Interpret your answer in the context
n =1
of this situation.
Determine the type of function represented by the table. (Section 6.7)

32. −3 −2 −1 0 1 33. x 0 4 8 12 16
x
y 0.5 1.5 4.5 13.5 40.5 y −7 −1 2 2 −1
Determine whether the sequence is arithmetic, geometric, or neither. (Sections 8.2 and 8.3)
34. −7, −1, 5, 11, 17, . . . 35. 0, −1, −3, −7, −15, . . . 36. 13.5, 40.5, 121.5, 364.5, . . .
Book 1.indb 440 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.5 Using Recursive Rules with
Sequences
Essential Question How can you define a sequence recursively?
A recursive rule gives the beginning term(s) of a sequence and a recursive equation
FLORIDA
DA that tells how an is related to one or more preceding terms.
STANDARDS
ARDS
MAFS.912.F-IF.1.3
2 F IF 1 3 Evaluating a Recursive Rule
MAFS.912.F-BF.1.1a
MAFS.912.F-BF.1.2 Work with a partner. Use each recursive rule and a spreadsheet to write the first
six terms of the sequence. Classify the sequence as arithmetic, geometric, or neither.
Explain your reasoning. (The figure shows a partially completed spreadsheet for
part (a).)
a. a1 = 7, an = an − 1 + 3 A B
b. a1 = 5, an = an − 1 − 2 1 n nth Term
2 1 7
c. a1 = 1, an = 2an − 1 B2+3
3 2 10
d. a1 = 1, an = —12 (an − 1)2 4 3
5 4
e. a1 = 3, an = an − 1 + 1 6 5
f. a1 = 4, an = —12 an − 1 − 1 7 6
8
g. a1 = 4, an = —12 an − 1
ATTENDING TO h. a1 = 4, a2 = 5, an = an − 1 + an − 2
PRECISION
To be proficient in math,
you need to communicate Writing a Recursive Rule
precisely to others.
Work with a partner. Write a recursive rule for the sequence. Explain
your reasoning.
a. 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, . . . b. 18, 14, 10, 6, 2, −2, . . .
c. 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, . . . d. 128, 64, 32, 16, 8, 4, . . .
e. 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, . . . f. 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, . . .
Writing a Recursive Rule

Work with a partner. Write a recursive rule for the sequence whose graph is shown.
9 9
a. b.
−1 7 −1 7
−1 −1

4. How can you define a sequence recursively?
5. Write a recursive rule that is different from those in Explorations 1–3. Write
the first six terms of the sequence. Then graph the sequence and classify it
as arithmetic, geometric, or neither.
Section 8.5 Using Recursive Rules with Sequences 441
Book 1.indb 441 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Evaluate recursive rules for sequences.
Write recursive rules for sequences.
Core Vocabul
Vocabulary
larry Translate between recursive and explicit rules for sequences.
explicit rule, p. 442 Use recursive rules to solve real-life problems.
recursive rule, p. 442
Evaluating Recursive Rules

So far in this chapter, you have worked with explicit rules for the nth term of a
sequence, such as an = 3n − 2 and an = 7(0.5)n. An explicit rule gives an as a
function of the term’s position number n in the sequence.
In this section, you will learn another way to define a sequence —by a recursive rule.
A recursive rule gives the beginning term(s) of a sequence and a recursive equation
that tells how an is related to one or more preceding terms.
Evaluating Recursive Rules
Write the first six terms of each sequence.

a. a0 = 1, an = an − 1 + 4 b. f (1) = 1, f (n) = 3 ⋅ f (n − 1)
SOLUTION
a. a0 = 1 1st term b. f (1) = 1
a1 = a0 + 4 = 1 + 4 = 5 2nd term f (2) = 3 ⋅ f (1) = 3(1) = 3
a2 = a1 + 4 = 5 + 4 = 9 3rd term f (3) = 3 ⋅ f (2) = 3(3) = 9
a3 = a2 + 4 = 9 + 4 = 13 4th term f (4) = 3 ⋅ f (3) = 3(9) = 27
a4 = a3 + 4 = 13 + 4 = 17 5th term f (5) = 3 ⋅ f (4) = 3(27) = 81
a5 = a4 + 4 = 17 + 4 = 21 6th term f (6) = 3 ⋅ f (5) = 3(81) = 243
1. a1 = 3, an = an − 1 − 7 2. a0 = 162, an = 0.5an − 1
3. f (0) = 1, f (n) = f (n − 1) + n 4. a1 = 4, an = 2an − 1 − 1
Writing Recursive Rules

In part (a) of Example 1, the differences of consecutive terms of the sequence are
constant, so the sequence is arithmetic. In part (b), the ratios of consecutive terms are
constant, so the sequence is geometric. In general, rules for arithmetic and geometric
sequences can be written recursively as follows.
Core Concept
Recursive Equations for Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences
Arithmetic Sequence
an = an − 1 + d, where d is the common difference
Geometric Sequence
⋅
an = r an − 1, where r is the common ratio
Book 1.indb 442 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Writing Recursive Rules
Write a recursive rule for (a) 3, 13, 23, 33, 43, . . . and (b) 16, 40, 100, 250, 625, . . ..
SOLUTION
Use a table to organize the terms and find the pattern.
COMMON ERROR a.
n 1 2 3 4 5
A recursive equation
for a sequence does not an 3 13 23 33 43
include the initial term.
To write a recursive rule + 10 + 10 + 10 + 10
for a sequence, the initial The sequence is arithmetic with first term a1 = 3 and common difference d = 10.
term(s) must be included.
an = an − 1 + d Recursive equation for arithmetic sequence
= an − 1 + 10 Substitute 10 for d.
A recursive rule for the sequence is a1 = 3, an = an − 1 + 10.

b.
n 1 2 3 4 5
an 16 40 100 250 625
5 5 5 5
× —2 × —2 × —2 × —2
The sequence is geometric with first term a1 = 16 and common ratio r = —52.
⋅
an = r an − 1 Recursive equation for geometric sequence
= —52 an − 1 Substitute —25 for r.

STUDY TIP
The sequence in part (a) A recursive rule for the sequence is a1 = 16, an = —52 an − 1.
of Example 3 is called the
Fibonacci sequence. The
sequence in part (b) lists Writing Recursive Rules
factorial numbers. You
will learn more about Write a recursive rule for each sequence.
factorials in Chapter 10.
a. 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, . . . b. 1, 1, 2, 6, 24, . . .
SOLUTION
a. The terms have neither a common difference nor a common ratio. Beginning with
the third term in the sequence, each term is the sum of the two previous terms.
A recursive rule for the sequence is a1 = 1, a2 = 1, an = an − 2 + an − 1.

b. The terms have neither a common difference nor a common ratio. Denote the
⋅
first term by a0 = 1. Note that a1 = 1 = 1 a0, a2 = 2 = 2 a1, a3 = 6 = 3 a2,
and so on.
⋅ ⋅
A recursive rule for the sequence is a0 = 1, an = n an − 1. ⋅
Write a recursive rule for the sequence.
5. 2, 14, 98, 686, 4802, . . . 6. 19, 13, 7, 1, −5, . . .

7. 11, 22, 33, 44, 55, . . . 8. 1, 2, 2, 4, 8, 32, . . .
Book 1.indb 443 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Translating Between Recursive and Explicit Rules
Translating from Explicit Rules to Recursive Rules

n−1
Write a recursive rule for (a) an = −6 + 8n and (b) an = −3 —12 () .
SOLUTION
a. The explicit rule represents an arithmetic sequence with first term
a1 = −6 + 8(1) = 2 and common difference d = 8.
an = an − 1 + 8 Substitute 8 for d.
b. The explicit rule represents a geometric sequence with first term a1 = −3 —12 ()
0
= −3
and common ratio r = —12 .
⋅
an = r an − 1 Recursive equation for geometric sequence
1
an = —2 an − 1 Substitute —12 for r.
A recursive rule for the sequence is a1 = −3, an = —12 an − 1.
Translating from Recursive Rules to Explicit Rules
Write an explicit rule for each sequence.

a. a1 = −5, an = an − 1 − 2 b. a1 = 10, an = 2an − 1
SOLUTION
a. The recursive rule represents an arithmetic sequence with first term a1 = −5 and
common difference d = −2.
an = a1 + (n − 1)d Explicit rule for arithmetic sequence
an = −5 + (n − 1)(−2) Substitute −5 for a1 and −2 for d.
an = −3 − 2n Simplify.
An explicit rule for the sequence is an = −3 − 2n.

b. The recursive rule represents a geometric sequence with first term a1 = 10 and
common ratio r = 2.
an = a1r n − 1 Explicit rule for geometric sequence
an = 10(2)n − 1 Substitute 10 for a1 and 2 for r.
An explicit rule for the sequence is an = 10(2)n − 1.

9. an = 17 − 4n 10. an = 16(3)n − 1
Write an explicit rule for the sequence.
11. a1 = −12, an = an − 1 + 16 12. a1 = 2, an = −6an − 1
Book 1.indb 444 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Solving Real-Life Problems
A lake initially contains 5200 fish. Each year, the

population declines 30% due to fishing and other
causes, so the lake is restocked with 400 fish.
a. Write a recursive rule for the number an of fish
at the start of the nth year.
b. Find the number of fish at the start of the
fifth year.
c. Describe what happens to the population
of fish over time.
SOLUTION
a. Write a recursive rule. The initial value is 5200. Because the population declines
30% each year, 70% of the fish remain in the lake from one year to the next. Also,
400 fish are added each year. Here is a verbal model for the recursive equation.
Fish at Fish at New

start of
year n
= 0.7 ⋅ start of
year n − 1
+ fish
added
an = 0.7 ⋅ an − 1 + 400
A recursive rule is a1 = 5200, an = (0.7)an − 1 + 400.
b. Find the number of fish at the start of the fifth year. 5200
5200
Enter 5200 (the value of a1) in a graphing calculator. .7*Ans+400
Then enter the rule 4040
3228
.7 × Ans + 400 2659.6
2261.72
to find a2. Press the enter button three more times to
find a5 ≈ 2262.
There are about 2262 fish in the lake at the start

Check of the fifth year.
Set a graphing calculator to 1333.334178
sequence and dot modes. c. Describe what happens to the population of fish over 1333.333924
Graph the sequence and use time. Continue pressing enter on the calculator. The 1333.333747
screen at the right shows the fish populations for 1333.333623
the trace feature. From the 1333.333536
graph, it appears the sequence years 44 to 50. Observe that the population of fish 1333.333475
approaches 1333. approaches 1333. 1333.333433
u=.7*u(n -1)+400 Over time, the population of fish in the lake

stabilizes at about 1333 fish.
n=75
X=75 Y=1333.3333
13. WHAT IF? In Example 6, suppose 75% of the fish remain each year. What happens
to the population of fish over time?
Book 1.indb 445 4/10/18 2:25 PM

Modeling with Mathematics
You borrow $150,000 at 6% annual interest compounded monthly for 30 years. The
monthly payment is $899.33.
REMEMBER • Find the balance after the third payment.
In Section 8.3, you used
• Due to rounding in the calculations, the last payment is often different from the
a formula involving
original payment. Find the amount of the last payment.
a geometric series to
calculate the monthly SOLUTION
payment for a
similar loan. 1. Understand the Problem You are given the conditions of a loan. You are asked to
find the balance after the third payment and the amount of the last payment.
2. Make a Plan Because the balance after each payment depends on the balance
after the previous payment, write a recursive rule that gives the balance after each
payment. Then use a spreadsheet to find the balance after each payment, rounded to
the nearest cent.
0.06
3. Solve the Problem Because the monthly interest rate is — = 0.005, the balance
12
increases by a factor of 1.005 each month, and then the payment of $899.33
is subtracted.
Balance before
⋅
Balance after
payment = 1.005 payment − Payment
an = 1.005 ⋅ an − 1 − 899.33
Use a spreadsheet and the recursive rule to find the balance after the third payment
and after the 359th payment.
A B
1 Payment number Balance after payment
2 1 149850.67 B2 =Round(1.005*150000−899.33, 2)
3 2 149700.59 B3 =Round(1.005*B2−899.33, 2)
4 3 149549.76 ∙
∙
∙
358 357 2667.38 ∙
359 358 1781.39 ∙
360 359 890.97 B360 =Round(1.005*B359−899.33, 2)
B
361
The balance after the third payment is $149,549.76. The balance after the
359th payment is $890.97, so the final payment is 1.005(890.97) = $895.42.
4. Look Back By continuing the spreadsheet for the 360th payment using the
original monthly payment of $899.33, the balance is −3.91.
361 360 −3.91 B361 =Round(1.005*B360−899.33, 2)

B
This shows an overpayment of $3.91. So, it is reasonable that the last payment is
$899.33 − $3.91 = $895.42.
14. WHAT IF? How do the answers in Example 7 change when the annual interest rate
is 7.5% and the monthly payment is $1048.82?
Book 1.indb 446 4/10/18 2:25 PM


1. COMPLETE THE SENTENCE A recursive _________ tells how the nth term of a sequence is
related to one or more preceding terms.
2. WRITING Explain the difference between an explicit rule and a recursive rule for a sequence.

In Exercises 3–10, write the first six terms of the 25. f(n) 26. f(n)
sequence. (See Example 1.)
4 4
3. a1 = 1 4. a1 = 1
an = an − 1 + 3 an = an − 1 − 5 2 4n 2 n
5. f (0) = 4 6. f (0) = 10
f (n) = 2f (n − 1) f (n) = —12 f (n − 1) ERROR ANALYSIS In Exercises 27 and 28, describe and
correct the error in writing a recursive rule for the
7. a1 = 2 8. a1 = 1 sequence 5, 2, 3, −1, 4, . . ..
an = (an − 1)2 + 1 an = (an − 1)2 − 10
✗
27.
9. f (0) = 2, f (1) = 4 Beginning with the third term in
f (n) = f (n − 1) − f (n − 2) the sequence, each term an equals
an − 2 − an − 1. So, a recursive rule
10. f (1) = 2, f (2) = 3 is given by
⋅
f (n) = f (n − 1) f (n − 2) an = an − 2 − an − 1.
In Exercises 11–22, write a recursive rule for the
✗
sequence. (See Examples 2 and 3.) 28.
11. 21, 14, 7, 0, −7, . . . 12. 54, 43, 32, 21, 10, . . . Beginning with the second term in
the sequence, each term an equals
13. 3, 12, 48, 192, 768, . . . 14. 4, −12, 36, −108, . . . an − 1 − 3. So, a recursive rule is
given by
11 11 11
15. 44, 11, — , —, —, . . .
4 16 64
16. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, . . . a1 = 5, an = an − 1 − 3.
17. 2, 5, 10, 50, 500, . . . 18. 3, 5, 15, 75, 1125, . . .
19. 1, 4, 5, 9, 14, . . . 20. 16, 9, 7, 2, 5, . . . In Exercises 29–38, write a recursive rule for the
sequence. (See Example 4.)
21. 6, 12, 36, 144, 720, . . . 22. −3, −1, 2, 6, 11, . . .
29. an = 3 + 4n 30. an = −2 −8n
In Exercises 23 –26, write a recursive rule for the
sequence shown in the graph. 31. an = 12 − 10n 32. an = 9 − 5n
23. f(n) 24.

8
f(n) 33. an = 12(11)n − 1 34. an = −7(6)n − 1
4
2 4 35. an = 2.5 − 0.6n 36. an = −1.4 + 0.5n
n−1
2 4n 2 4n
37. an = −— —
1 1
2 4 () 1
38. an = — (5)n − 1
4
Book 1.indb 447 4/10/18 2:25 PM

39. REWRITING A FORMULA 53. PROBLEM SOLVING An online music service initially
You have saved $82 to has 50,000 members. Each year, the company loses
buy a bicycle. You save 20% of its current members and gains 5000 new
an additional $30 each members. (See Example 6.)
month. The explicit rule
an = 30n + 82 gives the Beginning of first year
amount saved after
n months. Write a 50,000
recursive rule for the members
amount you have saved
Beginning of second year
n months from now.
=
40. REWRITING A FORMULA Your salary is given by the
explicit rule an = 35,000(1.04)n − 1, where n is the 5000 20% 45,000 members
number of years you have worked. Write a recursive join leave
rule for your salary.
Key: = 5000 members = join = leave
In Exercises 41–48, write an explicit rule for the
sequence. (See Example 5.) a. Write a recursive rule for the number an of
41. a1 = 3, an = an − 1 − 6 42. a1 = 16, an = an − 1 + 7 members at the start of the nth year.
b. Find the number of members at the start of the
43. a1 = −2, an = 3an − 1 44. a1 = 13, an = 4an − 1 fifth year.
45. a1 = −12, an = an − 1 + 9.1 c. Describe what happens to the number of members

over time.
46. a1 = −4, an = 0.65an − 1
54. PROBLEM SOLVING You add chlorine to a swimming
47. a1 = 5, an = an − 1 −
1
—3 48. a1 = −5, an =
1
—4 an − 1 pool. You add 34 ounces of chlorine the first week and
16 ounces every week thereafter. Each week, 40% of
49. REWRITING A FORMULA A grocery store arranges the chlorine in the pool evaporates.
cans in a pyramid-shaped display with 20 cans
34 oz of chlorine 16 oz of chlorine
in the bottom row and two fewer cans in each are added
subsequent row going up. The number of cans in are added
each row is represented by the recursive rule a1 = 20, 40% of
an = an − 1 − 2. Write an explicit rule for the number chlorine has
evaporated
of cans in row n.
First week Each successive week
50. REWRITING A FORMULA The value of a car is given
by the recursive rule a1 = 25,600, an = 0.86an − 1, a. Write a recursive rule for the amount of chlorine
where n is the number of years since the car was new. in the pool at the start of the nth week.
Write an explicit rule for the value of the car after b. Find the amount of chlorine in the pool at the start
n years. of the third week.
51. USING STRUCTURE What is the 1000th term of the c. Describe what happens to the amount of chlorine
sequence whose first term is a1 = 4 and whose nth in the pool over time.
term is an = an − 1 + 6? Justify your answer.
55. OPEN-ENDED Give an example of a real-life situation
○
A 4006 ○
B 5998 which you can represent with a recursive rule that
does not approach a limit. Write a recursive rule that
○
C 1010 ○
D 10,000
represents the situation.
52. USING STRUCTURE What is the 873rd term of the
sequence whose first term is a1 = 0.01 and whose nth 56. OPEN-ENDED Give an example of a sequence in
term is an = 1.01an − 1? Justify your answer. which each term after the third term is a function of
the three terms preceding it. Write a recursive rule for
○
A 58.65 ○
B 8.73 the sequence and find its first eight terms.
○
C 1.08 ○
D 586,459.38
Book 1.indb 448 4/10/18 2:25 PM

57. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS You borrow 61. DRAWING CONCLUSIONS A tree farm initially has
$2000 at 9% annual interest compounded monthly 9000 trees. Each year, 10% of the trees are harvested
for 2 years. The monthly payment is $91.37. and 800 seedlings are planted.
(See Example 7.)
a. Write a recursive rule for the number of trees on
a. Find the balance after the fifth payment. the tree farm at the beginning of the nth year.
b. Find the amount of the last payment. b. What happens to the number of trees after an
extended period of time?
58. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS You borrow
$10,000 to build an extra bedroom onto your house.
The loan is secured for 7 years at an annual interest
rate of 11.5%. The monthly payment is $173.86.
a. Find the balance after the fourth payment.
b. Find the amount of the last payment.
59. COMPARING METHODS In 1202, the mathematician

Leonardo Fibonacci wrote Liber Abaci, in which he
proposed the following rabbit problem:
62. DRAWING CONCLUSIONS You sprain your ankle
Begin with a pair of newborn rabbits. When a pair and your doctor prescribes 325 milligrams of an
of rabbits is two months old, the rabbits begin anti-inflammatory drug every 8 hours for 10 days.
producing a new pair of rabbits each month. Sixty percent of the drug is removed from the
Assume none of the rabbits die. bloodstream every 8 hours.
Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 a. Write a recursive rule for the amount of the drug

in the bloodstream after n doses.
Pairs at start
1 1 2 3 5 8 b. The value that a drug level approaches after an
of month
extended period of time is called the maintenance
This problem produces a sequence called the level. What is the maintenance level of this drug
Fibonacci sequence, which has both a recursive given the prescribed dosage?
formula and an explicit formula as follows. c. How does doubling the dosage affect the
Recursive: a1 = 1, a2 = 1, an = an − 2 +an − 1 maintenance level of the drug? Justify
your answer.
— n — n
Explicit: fn = —
√5
(
1 1 + √5
— —
2 ) −—
√5
(
1 1 − √5
— — , n ≥ 1
2 ) 63. FINDING A PATTERN A fractal tree starts with a single
branch (the trunk). At each stage, each new branch
Use each formula to determine how many rabbits from the previous stage grows two more branches,
there will be after one year. Justify your answers. as shown.
60. USING TOOLS A town library initially has 54,000

books in its collection. Each year, 2% of the books are
lost or discarded. The library can afford to purchase Stage 1 Stage 2
1150 new books each year.
a. Write a recursive rule for the number an of books
in the library at the beginning of the nth year.
b. Use the sequence mode and the dot mode of a
graphing calculator to graph the sequence. What Stage 3 Stage 4
happens to the number of books in the library over
time? Explain. a. List the number of new branches in each of the
first seven stages. What type of sequence do these
numbers form?
b. Write an explicit rule and a recursive rule for the
sequence in part (a).
Book 1.indb 449 4/10/18 2:25 PM

64. THOUGHT PROVOKING Let a1 = 34. Then write the 68. MAKING AN ARGUMENT Your friend says it is
terms of the sequence until you discover a pattern. impossible to write a recursive rule for a sequence
1 that is neither arithmetic nor geometric. Is your friend
—2 an , if an is even
an + 1 = correct? Justify your answer.
3an + 1, if an is odd
69. CRITICAL THINKING The first four triangular numbers
Do the same for a1 = 25. What can you conclude?
Tn and the first four square numbers Sn are represented
by the points in each diagram.
65. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS You make a
$500 down payment on a $3500 diamond ring. You
borrow the remaining balance at 10% annual interest
compounded monthly. The monthly payment is
$213.59. How long does it take to pay back the loan? 1 2 3 4
What is the amount of the last payment? Justify
your answers.
66. HOW DO YOU SEE IT? The graph shows the first six
terms of the sequence a1 = p, an = ran − 1. 1 2 3 4
an
(1, p) a. Write an explicit rule for each sequence.
b. Write a recursive rule for each sequence.
c. Write a rule for the square numbers in terms of
n the triangular numbers. Draw diagrams to explain
why this rule is true.
a. Describe what happens to the values in the 70. CRITICAL THINKING You are saving money for
sequence as n increases. retirement. You plan to withdraw $30,000 at the
beginning of each year for 20 years after you retire.
b. Describe the set of possible values for r. Explain Based on the type of investment you are making, you
your reasoning. can expect to earn an annual return of 8% on your
savings after you retire.
67. REASONING The rule for a recursive sequence is a. Let an be your balance n years after retiring. Write
as follows. a recursive equation that shows how an is related
to an − 1.
f (1) = 3, f (2) = 10
b. Solve the equation from part (a) for an − 1.
f (n) = 4 + 2f (n − 1) − f (n − 2)
Find a0, the minimum amount of money you
a. Write the first five terms of the sequence. should have in your account when you retire.
(Hint: Let a20 = 0.)
b. Use finite differences to find a pattern. What type
of relationship do the terms of the sequence show?
c. Write an explicit rule for the sequence.
Solve the equation. Check your solution. (Section 5.4)

— —
71. √x +2=7 72. 2 √ x − 5 = 15
— —
3
73. √ x + 16 = 19 3
74. 2 √ x − 13 = −5
The variables x and y vary inversely. Use the given values to write an equation relating x and y.
Then find y when x = 4. (Section 7.1)
75. x = 2, y = 9 76. x = −4, y = 3 77. x = 10, y = 32
Book 1.indb 450 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.4–8.5 What Did You Learn?
Core Vocabulary
partial sum, p. 436
explicit rule, p. 442
recursive rule, p. 442
Core Concepts
Section 8.4
Partial Sums of Infinite Geometric Series, p. 436
The Sum of an Infinite Geometric Series, p. 437
Section 8.5
Evaluating Recursive Rules, p. 442
Recursive Equations for Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences, p. 442
Translating Between Recursive and Explicit Rules, p. 444
Mathematical Practices
1. Describe how labeling the axes in Exercises 3–6 on page 439 clarifies the relationship
between the quantities in the problems.
2. What logical progression of arguments can you use to determine whether the statement in
Exercise 30 on page 440 is true?
3. Describe how the structure of the equation presented in Exercise 40 on page 448 allows
you to determine the starting salary and the raise you receive each year.
4. Does the recursive rule in Exercise 61 on page 449 make sense when n = 5? Explain
your reasoning.
Performance Task
Integrated Circuits
and Moore s Law
In April of 1965, an engineer named Gordon Moore noticed how quickly the he
size of electronics was shrinking. He predicted how the number of transistors rs
that could fit on a 1-inch diameter circuit would increase over time. In 1965,5,
only 50 transistors fit on the circuit. A decade later, about 65,000 transistorss
could fit on the circuit. Moore’s prediction was accurate and is now known
as Moore’s Law. What was his prediction? How many transistors will be
able to fit on a 1-inch circuit when you graduate from high school?
To explore the answers to this question and more, go to

BigIdeasMath.com.
451
Book 1.indb 451 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8 Chapter Review
8.1
Dynamic Solutions available at BigIdeasMath.com
Defining and Using Sequences and Series (pp. 409–416)

4
Find the sum ∑ (i 2 − 3).
i =1
4
∑ (i 2 − 3) = (12 − 3) + (22 − 3) + (32 − 3) + (42 − 3)
i =1
= −2 + 1 + 6 + 13
= 18
1. Describe the pattern shown in the figure. Then write a rule for
the nth layer of the figure, where n = 1 represents the top layer.
Write the series using summation notation.

2. 7 + 10 + 13 + . . . + 40 3. 0 + 2 + 6 + 12 + . . .
Find the sum.

7 46
4. ∑ (9 − i 3)
i =2
5. ∑i
i =1
12 5
3+i
6. ∑i 2
i =1
7. ∑—
i =1 2
8.2 Analyzing Arithmetic Sequences and Series (pp. 417–424)
Write a rule for the nth term of the sequence 9, 14, 19, 24, . . .. Then find a14.
The sequence is arithmetic with first term a1 = 9 and common difference d = 14 − 9 = 5.
So, a rule for the nth term is
= 9 + (n − 1)5 Substitute 9 for a1 and 5 for d.
= 5n + 4. Simplify.
A rule is an = 5n + 4, and the 14th term is a14 = 5(14) + 4 = 74.
8. Tell whether the sequence 12, 4, −4, −12, −20, . . . is arithmetic. Explain your reasoning.
Write a rule for the nth term of the arithmetic sequence. Then graph the first six terms of
the sequence.
9. 2, 8, 14, 20, . . . 10. a14 = 42, d = 3 11. a6 = −12, a12 = −36
36
12. Find the sum ∑ (2 + 3i).
i =1
13. You take a job with a starting salary of $37,000. Your employer offers you an annual raise of
$1500 for the next 6 years. Write a rule for your salary in the nth year. What are your total
earnings in 6 years?
Book 1.indb 452 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.3 Analyzing Geometric Sequences and Series (pp. 425–432)
8
Find the sum ∑ 6(3)i − 1.
i =1
Step 1 Find the first term and the common ratio.

a1 = 6(3)1 − 1 = 6 Identify first term.
r=3 Identify common ratio.
Step 2 Find the sum.
1 − r8
S8 = a1 —
1−r ( ) Write rule for S8.
=6 —
1−3(
1 − 38
) Substitute 6 for a1 and 3 for r.
= 19,680 Simplify.
14. Tell whether the sequence 7, 14, 28, 56, 112, . . . is geometric. Explain your reasoning.
Write a rule for the nth term of the geometric sequence. Then graph the first six terms of the
sequence.
8
15. 25, 10, 4, —, . . . 16. a5 = 162, r = −3 17. a3 = 16, a5 = 256
5
9
18. Find the sum ∑ 5(−2)i − 1.
i =1
8.4 Finding Sums of Infinite Geometric Series (pp. 435–440)

∞ i−1
Find the sum of the series ∑
i =1
(—)
4
5
, if it exists.
4 4
∣ ∣
For this series, a1 = 1 and r = —. Because — < 1, the sum of the series exists.
5 5
The sum of the series is
a1
S=— Formula for the sum of an infinite geometric series
1−r
1 4
=— Substitute 1 for a1 and — for r.
4 5
1−—
5
= 5. Simplify.
1 1 1 1
19. Consider the infinite geometric series 1, −—, —, −—, —, . . .. Find and graph the partial
4 16 64 256
sums Sn for n = 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Then describe what happens to Sn as n increases.
1 1 1
20. Find the sum of the infinite geometric series −2 + — − — + — + . . . , if it exists.
2 8 32
21. Write the repeating decimal 0.1212 . . . as a fraction in simplest form.
Chapter 8 Chapter Review 453
Book 1.indb 453 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8.5 Using Recursive Rules with Sequences (pp. 441–450)
a. Write the first six terms of the sequence a0 = 46, an = an − 1 − 8.

a0 = 46 1st term
a1 = a0 − 8 = 46 − 8 = 38 2nd term
a2 = a1 − 8 = 38 − 8 = 30 3rd term
a3 = a2 − 8 = 30 − 8 = 22 4th term
a4 = a3 − 8 = 22 − 8 = 14 5th term
a5 = a4 − 8 = 14 − 8 = 6 6th term
b. Write a recursive rule for the sequence 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, . . ..
Use a table to organize the terms and find the pattern.
n 1 2 3 4 5
an 6 10 14 18 22
+4 +4 +4 +4
The sequence is arithmetic with the first term a1 = 6 and common difference d = 4.
= an − 1 + 4 Substitute 4 for d.

22. a1 = 7, an = an − 1 + 11 23. a1 = 6, an = 4an − 1 24. f (0) = 4, f (n) = f (n − 1) + 2n

8 16
25. 9, 6, 4, —, —, . . . 26. 2, 2, 4, 12, 48, . . . 27. 7, 3, 4, −1, 5, . . .
3 9
n−1
28. Write a recursive rule for an = 105 — ( 53 ) .
Write an explicit rule for the sequence.

2
29. a1 = −4, an = an − 1 + 26 30. a1 = 8, an = −5an − 1 31. a1 = 26, an = — an − 1
5
32. A town’s population increases at a rate of about 4% per year. In 2010, the town had a
population of 11,120. Write a recursive rule for the population Pn of the town in year n.
Let n = 1 represent 2010.
33. The numbers 1, 6, 15, 28, . . . are called hexagonal numbers because they represent the
number of dots used to make hexagons, as shown. Write a recursive rule for the
nth hexagonal number.
Book 1.indb 454 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8
Find the sum.
Chapter Test
24 16 ∞ 6
1. ∑ (6i − 13)
i =1
2. ∑ n2
n =1
3. ∑ 2(0.8)k − 1 4. ∑ 4(−3)i − 1
i =1
k =1
Determine whether the graph represents an arithmetic sequence, geometric sequence, or

neither. Explain your reasoning. Then write a rule for the nth term.
5. an 6. an 7. an
( 3, 12 ) ( 4, 24 )
13
(4, 8) 12(1, 11) 0.4

8
(2, 9) ( 2, 125 )
(1, 1) 6 (3, 7) 0.2
(3, 4)
4
(2, 2) (4, 5) ( 1, 14 )
2 4 n 2 4 n 2 4 6n
Write a recursive rule for the sequence. Then find a9.
1
8. a1 = 32, r = —2 9. an = 2 + 7n 10. 2, 0, −3, −7, −12, . . .
11. Write a recursive rule for the sequence 5, −20, 80, −320, 1280, . . .. Then write an
explicit rule for the sequence using your recursive rule.
12. The numbers a, b, and c are the first three terms of an arithmetic sequence. Is b half of the
sum of a and c? Explain your reasoning.
13. Use the pattern of checkerboard quilts shown.
n = 1, an = 1 n = 2, an = 2 n = 3, an = 5 n = 4, an = 8
a. What does n represent for each quilt? What does an represent?

b. Make a table that shows n and an for n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.
n2 1
c. Use the rule an = — + —[1 − (−1)n] to find an for n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.
2 4
Compare these values to those in your table in part (b). What can you conclude?
Explain.
14. During a baseball season, a company pledges to donate $5000 to a charity plus $100 for
each home run hit by the local team. Does this situation represent a sequence or a series?
Explain your reasoning.
15. The lengthℓ1 of the first loop of a spring is 16 inches. The lengthℓ2 of the
second loop is 0.9 times the length of the first loop. The lengthℓ3 of the third
loop is 0.9 times the length of the second loop, and so on. Suppose the spring 1= 16 in.
has infinitely many loops, would its length be finite or infinite? Explain. Find
2= 16(0.9) in.
the length of the spring, if possible.
3= 16(0.9)2 in.
Chapter 8 Chapter Test 455
Book 1.indb 455 4/10/18 2:25 PM

8 Cumulative Assessment
1. The frequencies (in hertz) of the notes on a piano form a geometric sequence. The
frequencies of G (labeled 8) and A (labeled 10) are shown in the diagram. What is
the approximate frequency of E flat (labeled 4)?
○
A 247 Hz
○
B 311 Hz 2 4 7 9 11
1 3 5 6 8 10 12
○
C 330 Hz
392 Hz 440 Hz
○
D 554 Hz
2. You take out a loan for $16,000 with an interest rate of 0.75% per month. At the end of
each month, you make a payment of $300.
a. Write a recursive rule for the balance an of the loan at the beginning of the
nth month.
b. How much do you owe at the beginning of the 18th month?
c. How long will it take to pay off the loan?
d. If you pay $350 instead of $300 each month, how long will it take to pay off
the loan? How much money will you save? Explain.
3. The table shows that the force F (in pounds) needed to loosen a certain bolt with a
wrench depends on the lengthℓ(in inches) of the wrench’s handle. Write an equation
that relatesℓand F. Describe the relationship.
Length,ℓ 4 6 10 12
Force, F 375 250 150 125
4. Order the functions from the least average rate of change to the greatest average rate
of change on the interval 1 ≤ x ≤ 4. Justify your answers.
—
A. f (x) = 4√x + 2 B. x and y vary inversely, and
y = 2 when x = 5.
C. y D.
x y
10
1 −4
8
g 2 −1
6
3 2
2
4 5
2 4 x
Book 1.indb 456 4/10/18 2:25 PM

5. A running track is shaped like a rectangle with two semicircular ends, as shown.
The track has 8 lanes that are each 1.22 meters wide. The lanes are numbered from
1 to 8 starting from the inside lane. The distance from the center of a semicircle to
the inside of a lane is called the curve radius of that lane. The curve radius of lane 1
is 36.5 meters, as shown in the figure.
1.22 m
83.4 m
36.5 m
Not drawn to scale
a. Is the sequence formed by the curve radii arithmetic, geometric, or neither? Explain.
b. Write a rule for the sequence formed by the curve radii.
c. World records must be set on tracks that have a curve radius of at most 50 meters in
the outside lane. Does the track shown meet the requirement? Explain.
6. The diagram shows the bounce heights of a basketball and a baseball

dropped from a height of 10 feet. On each bounce, the basketball bounces
to 36% of its previous height, and the baseball bounces to 30% of its previous
height. About how much greater is the total distance traveled by the basketball
than the total distance traveled by the baseball?
10 ft 10 ft
3.6 ft
+ 3 ft
3.6 ft +
1.3 ft 3 ft
+ 0.9 ft
1.3 ft +
etc. 0.9 ft
etc.
Basketball Baseball
○
A 1.34 feet ○
B 2.00 feet
○
C 2.68 feet ○
D 5.63 feet
7. Classify the solution(s) of each equation as real numbers, imaginary numbers, or pure
imaginary numbers. Justify your answers.
—
a. x + √ −16 = 0 b. (11 − 2i ) − (−3i + 6) = 8 + x c. 3x2 − 14 = −20
d. x2 + 2x = −3 e. x2 = 16 f. x2 − 5x − 8 = 0
Chapter 8 Cumulative Assessment 457
Book 1.indb 457 4/10/18 2:25 PM

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8 Sequences and Series

8.1 Defining and Using Sequences and Series

SEE the Big Idea

Marching Band (p. 423)

Museum Skylight (p.

Book 1.indb 406 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Copy and complete the table to evaluate the function.

45 = 5(3)x Write original equation.

Solve the equation. Check your solution(s).

Dynamic Solutions available at BigIdeasMath.com

Book 1.indb 407 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Practices solving a mathematical problem.

Using Appropriate Tools Strategically

408 Chapter 8 Sequences and Series

Book 1.indb 408 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Communicate Your Answer

Section 8.1 Defining and Using Sequences and Series 409

Book 1.indb 409 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Range: a1 a2 a3 a4 ... an Terms of the sequence

Writing the Terms of Sequences

Monitoring Progress Help in English and Spanish at BigIdeasMath.com

Write the first six terms of the sequence.

410 Chapter 8 Sequences and Series

Book 1.indb 410 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Solving a Real-Life Problem

of a square pyramid with seven layers. Write a rule for the

COMMON ERROR Number of

Monitoring Progress Help in English and Spanish at BigIdeasMath.com

Section 8.1 Defining and Using Sequences and Series 411

Book 1.indb 411 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Writing Series Using Summation Notation

Write each series using summation notation.

Monitoring Progress Help in English and Spanish at BigIdeasMath.com

Write the series using summation notation.

11. 6 + 36 + 216 + 1296 + . . . 12. 5 + 6 + 7 + . . . + 12

412 Chapter 8 Sequences and Series

Book 1.indb 412 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Using a Formula for a Sum

How many apples are in the stack in Example 3?

Monitoring Progress Help in English and Spanish at BigIdeasMath.com

Find the sum.

Section 8.1 Defining and Using Sequences and Series 413

Book 1.indb 413 4/10/18 2:24 PM

Vocabulary and Core Concept Check

3. WRITING Compare sequences and series.

Monitoring Progress and Modeling with Mathematics

9. f (n) = 4n − 1 10. an = −n2

17. 3.1, 3.8, 4.5, 5.2, . . .

18. 9, 16.8, 24.6, 32.4, . . . 1 2 3

19. 5.8, 4.2, 2.6, 1, −0.6 . . . 2

25. 2, 9, 28, 65, . . . 26. 1.2, 4.2, 9.2, 16.2, . . .

414 Chapter 8 Sequences and Series

Book 1.indb 414 4/10/18 2:24 PM

30. MODELING WITH MATHEMATICS An employee at a

Section 8.1 Defining and Using Sequences and Series 415

Book 1.indb 415 4/10/18 2:24 PM

60. THOUGHT PROVOKING In this section, you learned

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 . . . End

a. Write a rule for the sequence.