+0

# Help!!!!

0
162
3

Given the sequence defined by an=48-3n, find all possible values of k so that

$$a_1 + a_2 + a_3 + \cdots + a_k = 330.$$

If you find more than one, then list the values separated by commas.

May 14, 2022

#1
+9459
0

Note that a_n is just an arithmetic sequence. You can use the sum of A.S. formula to rewrite the equation a_1 + a_2 + ... + a_k = 330.

May 14, 2022
#2
0

I don't really understand. Could you elaborate on that?

Guest May 14, 2022
#3
+9459
0

You know that

$$a_1 = 48 - 3\times1 = 45\\ d = a_2 - a_1 = (48 - 3(2)) - (48 - 3(1)) = -3\\$$

where d is the common difference of the sequence.

The sum of A.S. formula states $$a_1 + a_2 + \cdots + a_n = \dfrac n2 \left(2a_1 + (n - 1)(a_2 - a_1)\right) = \dfrac n2 (2a_1 + (n - 1)d)$$ if a_n is an arithmetic sequence. Therefore, the equation $$a_1 + a_2 + a_3 + \cdots + a_k = 330$$ really says $$\dfrac k2 (2(45) + (k - 1)(-3)) = 330$$. This becomes a quadratic equation. Can you solve for the value of k now?

Hint: Expand and use quadratic formula.

MaxWong  May 15, 2022
edited by MaxWong  May 15, 2022