Patterns and Algebra

Sun

Arithmetic Progressions An arithmetic progression occurs when, in a sequence of numbers, the difference between each number remains the same. e.g. In the sequence: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 the difference is always 2. In the sequence: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 the difference is always 3. You can calculate any number (term) in the sequence using the formula: n= b + (n-1) x d Where n= the number in the sequence you want to know b= the beginning number (1st term) of the sequence d= the difference between each term. Can you use the formula to find the 10th, 20th and 30th term in the above two sequences?

Can you substitute values in the formula to obtain your answer? Can you use digital technology or materials to help? How can you check if you are right? Can you use the formula to find other terms? Does the formula work when calculating the values in other arithmetic progressions?
PAS3.1a * Records, analyses and describes geometric and number patterns that involve one operation using tables and words PAS3.1b * Constructs, verifies and completes number sentences involving the four operations with a variety of numbers MA3-8NA Analyses and creates geometric and number patterns, constructs and completes number sentences, and locates points on the Cartesian plane MA3-2WM Selects and applies appropriate problem solving strategies, including the use of digital technologies, in undertaking investigations

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