A linear sequence starts with: a + 2b ; a + 6b ; a + 10b etc. The 2nd term has value 8. The 5th term has value 44. Work out the values of a and b.

We know that the 2nd term has a value of 8. Thus a + 6b = 8;What is more, we also know that the 5th term has a value of 44. We also know that the next element in the sequence increases by 4b when compared to the previous one. Hence the 5th element will be equal to a + 18b.Thus: a + 6b = 8 eq.1 a + 18b = 44 eq. 2Let's subtract the two equations - eq.2 -eq.1 we get 12 b = 44-8 = 36. Hence b = 3 and a = -10

Answered by Maths tutor

2693 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the following simultaneous equations: 2x - y = 7 and x^2 + y^2 = 34


solve for x by completing the square x^2 + 4x - 12


Mark has a voucher that gives him 22% off the prices at a hardware store. Estimate how much he will pay for an electric drill that normally costs £87.99. (non-calculator) (3)


How can I find x and y?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences