Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
9. Sequences, Series, & Induction
Geometric Sequences
Problem 31b
Textbook Question
In Exercises 31–36, find the indicated sum. Use the formula for the sum of the first n terms of a geometric sequence.
8 Σ (i = 1) 3^i![Sum of the first 8 terms of the geometric sequence 3^i from i=1 to 8.](https://lightcat-files.s3.amazonaws.com/problem_images/70abe70df00bd71e-1678243791492.jpg)
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1
Identify the sequence as a geometric sequence with the first term a = 3 and common ratio r = 3.
Use the formula for the sum of the first n terms of a geometric sequence: S_n = a(1 - r^n) / (1 - r).
Substitute the values: a = 3, r = 3, and n = 8 into the formula.
Calculate the expression: S_8 = 3(1 - 3^8) / (1 - 3).
Simplify the expression to find the sum of the sequence.
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