E-Book - Sequence and Series

CHAPTER
6 Sequence and Series
Why to study sequence and series?

When you start doing a job, then you will be working on a lot of data files and then you
need to identify a particular pattern in between to understand or analyse it.
WHAT IS SEQUENCE?
When numbers are separated by “,” and all numbers follow a particular law or some definite
rule then numbers are said to be in sequence and the number is called an element.
Generally, the sequence is written as a1, a2, a3, a4, an, ............ where a1, a2, a3, a4, ..., an are
its terms and n is the natural number and represents the number of terms or we can say
nth term is the number at the nth position of the particular sequence and is denoted by an.
E.g.: Tell which one is in the sequence?

(i) 1, 14, 3, 5, 8 (ii) 1, 2, 5, 15, 20, 30
(iii) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (iv) 50, 45, 30, 15, 3, 1
We can see that,
In (i), the numbers do not obey any rule or law, thus it is not a sequence.
In (ii), the numbers are in ascending order but it does not obey any rule.
In (iii), the difference between the consecutive numbers is 1 or by adding 1 to each number,
we get the next number, thus it forms a sequence.
In (iv), the numbers are in descending order, but it does not obey any rule.
Thus, the numbers in (iii) only form a sequence.
Some of the sequences:
1. Sequence of natural numbers (N): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, …..
2. Sequence of square numbers (n2): 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, …..
1 1 1 1 1
3. Sequence of : 1, , , , , .......
n 2 3 4 5
4. Sequence of odd positive numbers: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, …
5. Sequence of even positive numbers: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, …
1 1 1 1 1
, , , ,…………
(
6. Sequence of n + 2 ) : 3 4 5 6
n 1 2 3 4
(
7. Sequence of n + 2 ) : 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , ............
Example 1. Complete the sequence: 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, ?
(a) 21 (b) 17 (c) 16 (d) None of these
Sol. (c) Given sequence: 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, ?
Then, a1 = 1, a2 = 4, a3 = 7, a4 = 10, a5 = 13
The given sequence is following a pattern i.e., each successive number is increasing by 3 i.e.,
1 + 3 = 4
4 + 3 = 7
7 + 3 = 10
10 + 3 = 13
Thus, the next number is 13 + 3 = 16
Hence, the correct option is (c).
Example 2. Tell the next number in the sequence 1, 8, 27, 64, ___ .
Sol. (a) Given sequence: 1, 8, 27, 64, ?
The given sequence is in the form of cube of the natural numbers i.e., 13, 23, 33, 43
Then, the 5th term in sequence will be 53 = 5 × 5 × 5 = 125
Hence, the correct option is (a).
Example 3. Prime numbers less than 20 are
(a) 1, 2, 3, 11, 13, 19
(b) 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19
(c) 2, 5, 11, 13, 19
(d) None of these
Sol. (b) P
rime numbers are those numbers which have exactly 2 factors i.e., 1 and the number
itself.
Then, the prime numbers less than 20 are 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19.
Hence the correct option is (b).
Example 4. The first three terms of sequence when nth term tn is n2 – 2n are (ICAI)
(a) –1, 0, 3 (b) 1, 0, 2
(c) –1, 0, –3 (d) None of these
Sol. (a) Given that, tn = n2 – 2n
Thus, the first three terms of the sequence can be obtained by substituting the values of
n as 1, 2 and 3 i.e.,
t1 = (1)2 – 2(1) = 1 – 2 = –1
t2 = (2)2 – 2(2) = 4 – 4 = 0
t3 = (3)2 – 2(3) = 9 – 6 = 3
Therefore, the first three terms of sequence are –1, 0, 3.
Hence the correct option is (a).
P
2 Quantitative Aptitude W
SERIES
When we add the terms of the sequence, then it is called a series.
Let a1, a2, a3, ..., an, be the sequence then the series can be written as
a1 + a2 + a3 + ... + an + ...
E.g.: If the sequence is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ….. then the series is 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + ......
TYPES OF SERIES
Finite series: A finite series is a series that has a specific number of terms. The addition
of the terms in the series stops after a certain point.
E.g.: the series 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 is a finite series as it has a definite end.
Infinite series: An infinite series is a series that continues indefinitely, without an end.
The addition of terms in the series goes on indefinitely.
E.g.: the series 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 + ... is an infinite series as there is no specific endpoint.
Example 5. If u1 = 2, u2 = 4, u3 = 6, u4 = 8, then S4 is:

Sol. (a) Given that, u1 = 2, u2 = 4, u3 = 6, u4 = 8

n
We know that, Sn = ∑r =1ur
4
Thus, S4 = ∑r =1ur = u1 + u2 + u3 + u4 = 2 + 4 + 6 + 8 = 20
Example 6. The nth element of the sequence –1, 2, –4, 8, ... is
(a) (–1)n (2)n–1 (b) 2n+1 (c) 2n (d) 2n–1
Sol. (a) Given sequence, -1, 2, -4, 8, ...
From the above sequence, we see that the terms are negative and positive alternatively
and the successive term is double of the previous term.
i.e., the terms are
–1 which is of the form (–1)1 21–1
–1 × –2 = 2 which is of the form (–1)2 22–1
2 × – 2 = –4 which is of the form (–1)3 23–1
–4 × –2 = 8 which is of the form (–1)4 24–1
8 × –2 = – 16 which is of the form (–1)5 25–1
Therefore, the nth element of the sequence = (–1)n 2n–1
Example 7. The sum to ∞ of the series –5, 25, –125, 625 … can be written as (ICAI)
∞ k ∞ ∞
(a) ∑ k =1(−5 ) (b) ∑ k =15
k
(c) ∑ k =1 − 5
k
(d) None of these
Sequence and Series 3

Sol. (a) Given sequence: –5, 25, –125, 625 …
The above sequence can be written as,
⇒ – 5, 25, –125, 625, …
⇒ (–5)1, (–5)2, (–5)3, (–5)4...[\ (–a)n = an when n is even, (–a)n = –an when n is odd]
∑ k =1 (−5 )k
∞
⇒
 1 2 3
∞ 
∴ ( −a) + ( −a) + ( −a) =... ∑ (−a)k 
 k =1 

7
Example 8. ∑ 2i − 1 can be written as (ICAI)
i =4
(a) 7 + 9 + 11 + 13 (b) 2 7 + 2 9 + 2 11 + 2 13
(c) 2 7 + 2 9 + 2 11 + 2 13 (d) None of these

7
Sol. (a) Given that ∑i = 4 2i − 1
n
We know that, ∑i =1ai = a1 + a2 + a3 ... + an
7
⇒ ∑i = 4 2(i ) −
= 1 2(4) − 1 + 2(5 ) − 1 + 2(6) − 1 + 2(7) − 1
7
⇒ ∑i = 4 2(i ) − 1 = 8 − 1 + 10 − 1 + 12 − 1 + 14 − 1
7
⇒ ∑i = 4 2(i ) − 1 = 7 + 9 + 11 + 13
ARITHMETIC PROGRESSION (A.P.)

If the common difference (d) between consecutive terms is same then the sequence is
called Arithmetic Progression (A.P.).
We can also say that a1, a2, a3, a4, an is in Arithmetic Progression (A.P.) when
d = a2 – a1 = a3 – a2 = a4 – a3 = .............. = an – an–1
E.g.: 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, ......
In the given sequence, the common difference between consecutive terms is 3. Therefore, it
is an Arithmetic Progression (A.P.) with a common difference (d) of 3.
In an Arithmetic Progression (A.P.), each term is obtained by adding a constant value (d) to
the previous term.
Thus, if the first term is ‘a’ and the common difference is ‘d’, then the nth term will be:
an = a + (n – 1)d
Now in general, an A.P. series can be written as: a, a + d, a + 2d, a + 3d, ......... a + (n – 1)d
P
Example 9. If the sequence 20, 15, 10, 5, 0, –5, –10 is in A.P., then the common difference
is
(a) 5 (b) – 5 (c) 10 (d) None of these
Sol. (b) Given sequence: 20, 15, 10, 5, 0, –5, –10
Since, it is in A.P then the common difference, d = a2 – a1 = a3 – a2 = ...
According to the question,
First term, a1 = 20
Second term, a2 = 15
Thus, a2 – a1 = 15 – 20 = – 5
Therefore, the common difference (d) = –5
Hence, the correct option is (b).
Example 10. If the first term of an A.P. is 15 and the common difference is 4, then the
required A.P. will be
(a) 15, 19, 21, 23, ... (b) 15, 19, 23, 27, ...
(c) 11, 15, 19, 25, ... (d) None of these
Sol. (b) Given, a = 15, d = 4
Thus,
First term = a = a1 = 15
Second term = a2 = a1 + d = 15 + 4 = 19
Third term a3 = a2 + d = 19 + 4 = 23
Fourth term a4 = a3 + d = 23 + 4 = 27
and so on
Therefore, the required A.P. will be 15, 19, 23, 27, ...
Example 11. The 6th term of the progression 1, 3, 5, 7 ... is
Sol. (c) Given sequence: 1, 3, 5, 7, …
We know that,
nth term of an A.P. is given by an + a + (n – 1)d
According to the given sequence,
First term, a1 = 1
Second term, a2 = 3
Thus, common difference (d) = a2 – a1 = 3 – 1 = 2
Here, n = 6
Therefore, 6th term = 1 + (6 – 1)2 = 1 + 5(2) = 1 + 10 = 11
Example 12. Which term of the progression –1, –3, –5, .... is –39? (ICAI)
(a) 21st (b) 20th (c) 19th (d) None of these

Sol. (b) Given progression, –1, –3, –5, ...
Here, common difference (d) is the same. So, given progression is in A.P.
We know that,
nth term of an A.P. is given by an = a + (n – 1)d
where,
a = –1
d = –3 – (–1) = – 3 + 1 = – 2
Let the nth term of an A.P. is –39.
So, an = –39
⇒ a + (n – 1)d = –39
⇒ (–1) + (n – 1) (–2) = –39
⇒ –1 – 2n + 2 = –39
⇒ 1 – 2n = –39
⇒ –2n = –40
\ n = 20
Thus, the correct option is (b) i.e., 20th.
Example 13. The first term of an A.P. is 5, the common difference is 3, and the last term is
80; find the number of terms.
Sol. (b) Given, a = 5, d = 3 and an or l = 80
We know that,
an = a + (n – 1)d
⇒ 80 = 5 + (n – 1)3
⇒ 80 = 5 + 3n – 3
⇒ 80 = 2 + 3n
⇒ 78 = 3n
⇒ n = 26
Therefore, the number of terms is 26.
Example 14. (x + 1), 3x, (4x + 2) are in A.P., then the value of x is
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d) 5
Sol. (b) Given, (x + 1), 3x, (4x + 2) are in A.P.
Thus, a2 – a1 = a3 – a2
⇒ 3x – (x + 1) = (4x + 2) – 3x
⇒ 2x – 1 = x + 2
⇒x =3
Therefore, the value of is 3.
P
1 3 5 19
Example 15. Which term of the progression , , , ……is ?
2 2 2 2

1 3 5
Sol. (b) Given, sequence , , ,…
2 2 2
The sequence a1 , a2 , a3 , ... an is in Arithmetic Progression (AP),
when aü − a1 = a3 − a2 = ... = a − an − = d
Then,
1
First term (a) =
2
3
Second term a2 =
2
5
Third term a3 =
2
3 1 3−1
Then, the common difference (d) = − = =1
2 2 2
19
(
We know that, tn =a + n − 1 d =
2
)
ü
(
⇒ + n − 1 1=
2
)
2
19 1 19 − 1 18
(
⇒ n − 1 1= ) − =
2 2 2
=
2
= 9
⇒ (n - 1) = 9
⇒ n = 9 + 1 = 10
Example 16. The 20th term of arithmetic progression whose 6th term is 38 and 10th term
is 66 is (Dec 2020)
(a) 136 (b) 118 (c) 178 (d) 210
Sol. (a) Given, a6 = 38 and a10 = 66
Thus,
a + 5d = 38
a + 9d = 66
On subtracting, we get
4d = 28
d = 7
a = 38 – 5d = 38 – 35 = 3
Therefore, 20th term = a + 19d = 3 + 19(7) = 136
Hence, the correct answer is option (a) i.e. 136
Example 17. If the pth term of an A.P. is q and the qth term is q then what will be the value
of the term? (Dec 2022)
(a) 0 (b) 1 (c) p + q – 1 (d) 2(p + q – 1)
Sol. (a) We know that,
nth term of an A.P. is given by,
an = a + (n – 1)d
Given that,
ap = q and aq = p
As per question,
a + (p – 1)d = q ...(i)
a + (q – 1)d = p ...(ii)
Subtracting eq (ii) from eq. (i),
(p – q)d = q – p
d = – 1
Putting in eq. (i),
⇒ a + (p – 1)(–1) = q
⇒a – p + 1 = q
⇒a = p + q – 1
Thus, (p + q) term is given by,
⇒ ap+q = a + (p + q – 1)d
⇒ ap+q = p + q – 1 + (p + q – 1)(–1)
⇒ ap+q = p + q – 1 – p – q + 1
\ ap+q = 0
Hence, the correct option is (a) i.e., 0.
Example 18. If 2nd term = 7 and 7th term = 27, then what is the required A.P.?
(a) 3,7,11,15, ...... (b) 3, 5,7,9, ........ (c) 5,6,7,8, ...... (d) None of these
Sol. (a) Given that, t2 = 7, t7 = 27

We know that, tn = a + (n – 1)d
Then,
⇒ t2 = a + (2 – 1)d ⇒ 7 = a + d ...(i)
⇒ t7 = a + (7 – 1)d ⇒ 27 = a + 6d ...(ii)
On subtracting the above equations, we get
27 – 7 = 6d – d ⇒ 20 = 5d ⇒ d = 4
From the equation (i), we get
a + d= 7⇒a + 4 = 7 ⇒a =7–4 ⇒a=3
Then, the sequence is a, a + d, a + 2d, a + 3d, ...
Therefore, sequence = 3, (3 + 4), (3 + 2(4)), (3 + 3(4)), ... = 3, 7, 11, 15...
P
PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART A)
1. The first three terms of a sequence when nth term (tn) is n3 – n are:
(a) 6, 24, 25 (b) 0, 6, 24 (c) 1, 2, 5 (d) None of these
2. The first term and the common difference of the A.P.: 3, 1, –1, –3, ... is
(a) 3, –1 (b) 3, –2 (c) 1, –2 (d) None of these
4
3. ∑i =1 5 − i can be written as
(a) 2 + 2 + 3 (b) 3 + 2 + 3 (c) 2 + 3 + 5 + 1 (d) None of these
4. The 20th term of the A.P: 3, 5, 7, 9, ... is

(a) 39 (b) 40 (c) 41 (d) 45
5. Which term of the A.P: 21, 18, 15, ... is –81?
(a) 30 (b) 32 (c) 34 (d) 35
1
6. The 11th term of the A.P.: –3, − , 2, ... is
2
1
(a) 28 (b) 22 (c) –38 (d) −48
2
7. The number of the terms in the A.P.: 7, 13, 19, ..., 205 are
(a) 34 (b) 39 (c) 35 (d) 33
8. The value of x such that 8x + 4, 6x – 2, 2x + 7 will form an A.P. is (ICAI)
15
(a) 15 (b) 2 (c) (d) None of these
2
9. The value of K for which the terms 7K + 3, 4K – 5, 2K + 10 are in A.P. is
(a) -13 (b) -23 (c) 13 (d) 23 (Nov 2018)
10. The 4th term of an A.P. is three times the first and the 7th term exceeds twice the third
term by 1. Find the first term a and common difference .
(a) a = 3, d = 2 (b) a = 4, d = 3 (c) a = 5, d = 4 (d) a = 6, d = 5
Answer Key
1. (b) 2. (b) 3. (b) 4. (c) 5. (d) 6. (b) 7. (a) 8. (c) 9. (b) 10. (a)
SELECTION OF TERMS OF AN ARITHMETIC PROGRESSION
Number of Terms Terms Common Difference

3 a – d, a, a + d d
4 a – 3d, a – d, a + d, a + 3d 2d
5 a – 2d, a – d, a, a + d, a + 2d d
6 a – 5d, a – 3d, a – d, a + d, a + 3d, a + 5d 2d
7 a– 3d, a – 2d, a – d, a, a + d, a + 2d, a + 3d d

Example 19. Divide 24 into three parts which are in arithmetic progression (A.P.) and
such that the product of the first two parts is 48. Find the three parts.
(a) 4, 8, 12 (b) 6, 12, 18 (c) 3, 6, 9 (d) 6, 8, 10
Sol. (d) Detailed method:
Let the three parts of A.P. be a – d, a and a + d.
Given that the product of the first two parts is 48, we have
(a – d) × a = 48
⇒ a2 – da = 48 ...(i)
Also, the sum of the three parts is 24
⇒ (a - d) + a + (a + d) = 24
⇒ 3a = 24
⇒a = 8
Substituting the value of ‘a’ in equation (i), we get:
82 - 8d = 48
⇒ 64 - 8d = 48
⇒ 8d = 16
⇒d = 2
So, the three parts are:
a – d = 8 – 2 = 6
a = 8,
a + d = 8 + 2 = 10
Go by choices:
Option (a): 4, 8, 12
Sum of terms = 4 + 8 + 12 = 24
Product of the first two parts = 4 × 8 = 32 ≠ 48
Option (b): 6, 12, 18
Sum of terms = 6 + 12 + 18 = 36 ≠ 24
Option (c): 3, 6, 9
Sum of terms = 3 + 6 + 9 = 18 ≠ 24
Option (d): 6, 8, 10
Sum of terms = 6 + 8 + 10 = 24
Product of the first two parts = 6 × 8 = 48
Thus, option (d) satisfies both the conditions.
Therefore, the required terms are 6, 8, 10.
Hence, the correct option is (d) i.e., 6, 8, 10.
Example 20. Divide 36 into three parts which are in A.P. and are such that the product of
the first two parts is 108.
(a) 9,12,15 (b) 1,2,3 (c) 11,12,15 (d) None of these
P
Sol. (a) Detailed method:
Let the three parts be a – d, a, a + d
Then,
⇒ a – d + a + a + d = 36
⇒ 3a = 36
36
a
= = 12
3
Product of the first two parts is 108, then
⇒ a(a – d) = 108
⇒ 12(12 – d) = 108
⇒ 144 – 12d =108
⇒ – 12d = –36
36
d
⇒= = 3
12
Therefore, the three parts be a – d, a, a + d = 12 – 3, 12, 12 + 3 = 9, 12, 15
Go by choices:
Option (a): 9, 12, 15
Sum of terms = 9 + 12 + 15 = 36
Product of the first two parts = 9 × 12 = 108
Thus, option (a) satisfies both the conditions.
Therefore, the required terms are 9, 12, 15.
Example 21. Four numbers form an arithmetic progression. The sum of the first and last
terms is 8, and the product of the two middle terms is 15. Find the smallest number in the
series.
Sol. (c) Let the four terms be a – 3d, a – d, a + d, a + 3d
Since, the sum of the first and last terms is 8 i.e., (a – 3d) + (a + 3d) = 8
⇒ 2a = 8 ⇒ a = 4
Now, the product of the two middle terms is 15
⇒ (a – d) (a + d) = 15
⇒ (4 – d)(4 + d) = 15
⇒ 16 – d2 = 15 ⇒ d2 = 1
⇒ d = +1 or –1
When a = 4 and d = 1, then the terms are 1, 3, 5, 7
When a = 4 and d = – 1, then the terms are 7, 5, 3, 1
Clearly, the smallest number is 1.

Example 22. Divide 12.50 into five parts in A.P. such that the first part and the last part
are in the ratio of 2 : 3.
(a) 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3 (b) –2, –2.25, –2.5, 2.75, –3
(c) 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6 (d) –4, –4.5, –5, –5.5, –6
Sol. (a) Given that,
Ratio of first and last part = 2 : 3
first part 2
i.e., = = x
last part 3
Let first part (a) = 2x & last part = 3x
Let the first terms of A.P. be:
= 2x, 2x + d, 2x + + 2d, 2x + 3d, 3x
Since, the sum of these terms = 12.50
⇒ 2x + 2x + d + 2x + 2d + 2x + 3d + 3x = 12.5
⇒ 11x + 6d = 12.5 ...(i)
Also, 5th term = 2x + 4d = 3x
⇒ x = 4d ...(ii)
Putting the value of x in (i),
⇒ 11 × 4d + 6d = 12.5
⇒ 50d = 12.5
⇒ d = 0.25
From eq (ii),
⇒ x = 4 × 0.25 = 1
So, 5 parts are
2x = 2
2x + d = 2 + 0.25 = 2.25
2x + 2d = 2 + 0.5 = 2.5
2x + 3d = 2 + 0.75 = 2.75
3x = 3
Hence, the correct option is (a) i.e., 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3.
PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART B)

1. Divide 69 into 3 parts which are in A.P and are such that the product of first two parts
is 460 (Dec 2020)
(a) 20,23,26 (b) 21,23,25 (c) 19,23,27 (d) 22,23,24
2. Divide 144 into three parts which are in A.P. and such that the largest is twice the
smallest, the smallest of three numbers will be:
(a) 48 (b) 36 (c) 13 (d) 32
P
3. Divide 96 into four parts which are in A.P. and the ratio between product of their means
to the product of their extremes is 15 : 7 and find the largest term of the series.
(a) 6 (b) 18 (c) 30 (d) 42
4. Divide 20 into five parts in A.P. such that the first and last parts are in the ratio 2 : 3.
24 29 33 36 36 33 24 27
(a) , , 6, , (b) 6, , , ,
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
27 24 36 33
(c) , , , , 6 (d) None of these
5 4 5 5
Answer Key
1. (a) 2. (d) 3. (d) 4. (d)
SUM OF THE FIRST N TERMS

Let S be the sum, a be the 1st term and l be the last term of an A.P.
If the number of terms are n, then l = an and d be the common difference of the A.P.
Thus, formula for Arithmetic Progressions are:
n
Sum of n terms of an A.P., Sn =  2a + (n − 1) d 
2 
= n
[ a + a + (n − 1)d ]
2
= n
[ a + an ]
2
or we can say
n (a + l )
Sum of n terms of an A.P., Sn = , where l = an
2
Example 23. The sum of the series 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, ... to 100 terms is
(a) 1000 (b) 10,000 (c) 20,000 (d) None of these
Sol. (b) Given sequence 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, ... to 100 terms

Then, a1 = 1, a2 = 3, a3 = 5, .........
Here, the common difference (d) = a2 – a1 = 3 – 1 = 2
We know that,
n
Sum of n terms (Sn) of A.P (S=
n
) (2a + (n − 1)d)
2
100
⇒ (S 100
= ) (2(1) + (100 − 1)2)
2
⇒ (S100) = 50(2 + (99)2) = 50(2 + 198) = 50(200) = 10000
Therefore, the sum of 100 terms (S100) = 10,000

Example 24. The number of terms of the series: 5 + 7 + 9... must be taken so that the sum
is 480. (July 2021)
(a) 20 (b) 10 (c) 15 (d) 25
Sol. (a) Given: 5 + 7 + 9 + ... = 480
Since the common difference is same thus it is an A.P. with a = 5, d = 2
n
⇒ { 2a + (n − 1)d } = 480
2
n
⇒ {10 + (n − 1)2 } = 480
2
⇒ n(2n + 8) = 960
⇒ 2n2 + 8n – 960 = 0
⇒ n2 + 4n – 480 = 0
⇒ n2 + 24n – 20n – 480 = 0
⇒ (n + 24) (n – 20) = 0
⇒ n = 20 (since, n cannot be negative)
Hence, the answer is option (a) i.e. 20.
Example 25. The first and the last term of an AP are –4 and 146 respectively. The sum of
the terms is 7171. The number of terms is (ICAI)
a = –4
l = 146
Sn = 7171
Sum of first terms of an A.P. is given by,
n
Sn = [a + l ]
2
n
⇒ 7171 = [ − 4 + 146 ]
2
n(142 )
⇒ 7171 =
2
\ n = 101
Therefore, the correct option is (a) i.e., 101.
Example 26. If the sum of ‘n’ terms of an AP is 2n2, the fifth term is (July 2021)
(a) 20 (b) 50 (c) 18 (d) 25
Sol. (c) Given: Sum of ‘n’ terms of an AP
We know,
S1 = a = a1
S2 = a1 + a2
P
S3 = a1 + a2 + a3
S4 = a1 + a2+ a3 + a4
S5 = a1 + a2 + a3 + a4 + a5
⇒ Fifth term = a5 = S5 – S4 = 2(5)2 = 2(4)2 = 50 – 32 = 18
Hence, the correct answer is option (c) i.e. 18.
9 15
Example 27. Find the sum of the following arithmetic progression: to 3, , 6, , ... to 25
2 2
terms
(a) 450 (b) 500 (c) 525 (d) 800
Sol. (c) According to the question,
a = 3
9 9−6 3
d= −3= =
2 2 2
n = 25
We know that,
n
Sum of an A.P., Sn = [ 2a + (n − 1) d ]
2
25  3 25  3
= 6 + ( 25 − 1)  = 6 + ( 24 ) 
2  2 2  2
25 25
= [6 + 36 ] = [ 42 ] = 525
2 2
Example 28. The sum of five terms of AP is 75, find the 3rd term. (Dec 2019)

Sol. (c) Given: Sum of five terms of AP = 75
5
{ 2a + (5 − 1)d } = 75
2
2a + 4d = 30
a + 2d = 15
i.e. 3rd term = 15
Hence, the correct option is (c) i.e. 15.
Example 29. The sum of a certain number of terms of an A.P. series –8, –6, –4 ... is 52,
then the number of terms are
(a) 20 (b) –4 (c) 13 (d) None of these
Sol. (c) Given sequence: –8, –6, –4,...
So, a1 = –8, a2 = –6, a3 = –4
Common difference (d) = a2 – a1 = –6 – (–8) = –6 + 8 = 2

We know that,
Sum of n terms (Sn) of an A.P
n
(S=
n
) (2a + (n − 1)d)
2
n
⇒ 52
=
2
( ( ) (
2 −8 + n − 1 2 ) )
n
⇒ 52 = ( −16 + 2n − 2)
2
n
⇒ 52 = ( −18 + 2n)
2
⇒ 52 = n(–9 + n) = n2 – 9n
⇒ n2 – 9n – 52 = 0
⇒ n2 – 13n + 4n – 52 = 0
⇒ n (n – 13) + 4(n – 13) = 0
⇒ (n – 13) (n + 4) = 0
⇒ n = 13, –4
Since, the number of terms cannot be negative.
Therefore, number of terms (n) = 13
Example 30. The sum of all natural numbers between 200 and 400 which are divisible by
7 is (ICAI)
(a) 7,730 (b) 8,729 (c) 7,729 (d) 8,730
Sol. (b) T
he numbers lying between 200 and 400 which are divisible by 7 are 203, 210,
217, ..., 399
This is an A.P. with first term is 203 & common difference is 7
Let the number of terms of the A.P. be n.
We know that,
nth term of an A.P. is given by,
an = a + (n – 1)d
⇒399 = 203 + (n – 1)7 ⇒7(n – 1) = 196
⇒n – 1 = 28
\ n = 29
Sum of first n terms of an A.P. is given by,
n
Sn = [a + l ]
2
where, l = last term
29
⇒ Sn = [ 203 + 399]
2
\ Sn = 8729
Hence, the correct option is (b) i.e., 8,729.
P
Example 31. The first and the last term of an AP are –10 and 70 where the common
difference is 10, then the numbers of terms in the AP are
Sol. (b) Given,
First term (a1) = –10
Last term (an) = 70
Here, the common difference (d) = 10
We know that, nth term of an A.P. (tn) = a + (n – 1)d
⇒ 90 = 10 + (n – 1)10
⇒ 90 = 10 + 10n – 10
⇒ 90 = 10n
⇒n = 9
Therefore, number of terms (n) = 9
Example 32. A man saved `16500 in ten years. In each year after the first, he saved `100
more than he did in the preceding year. How much did he save in the first year?
(a) ₹1000 (b) ₹1100 (c) ₹1200 (d) ₹1500
Sol. (c) Let the amount saved in the first year be ₹ x.
In the second year, he saves ‘x + 100’
In the third year, he saves x + 100 + 100 = x + 200
And so on.
Thus, a = x, d = 100, n = 10 and Sn = 16,500
We know that,
n
⇒ Sn = [ 2a + (n − 1)d ]
2
10
⇒ 16500 = [ 2 x + (10 − 1)100 ]
2
⇒ 16500 = 5 (2x + 900)
⇒ 3300 = 2x + 900
⇒ 2400 = 2x
⇒ x = 1200
Therefore, the man saved `1200 in the first year.
Example 33. The first term of an A.P is 14 and the sums of the first five terms and the first
ten terms are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign. The 3rd term of the AP is (ICAI)
4 4
(a) 6 (b) 6 (c) (d) None of these
11 11

Sol. (a) Given, First term (a1) = 14
where, the sums of the first five terms and the first ten terms are equal in magnitude
but opposite in sign.
S10 = –S5
n n 
⇒ (2a + (n − 1)d) =
−  (2a + (n − 1)d) 
2 2 
10 5 
⇒ (2(14) + (10 − 1)d) =
−  (2(14) + (5 − 1)d) 
2 2 
10 5 
⇒ (28 + 9d) =−  (28 + 4d) 
2 2 
2(28 + 9d) = –(28 + 4d)
56 + 18d = –28 – 4d
22d = – 84
− 42
⇒d=
11
We know that, (t3) = a + 2d
 −42  84 154 − 84 70 4
Therefore, (t3 ) =
a + 2d =
14 + 2  =14 − = = = 6
 11  11 11 11 11
ARITHMETIC MEAN
a+c
If a, b, c are in A.P., then b is called an arithmetic mean between a and c, such that b =
2
E.g.: If the numbers 2, 6 and 10 are in A.P., then 6 is the arithmetic mean between 2 and
2 + 10
10 since = 10
2
Now, if ‘k’ arithmetic mean need to be inserted then
A.Mk = a + kd
i.e., A.M1 = a + d
A.M2 = a + 2d
A.M3 = a + 3d...
A.Mm = a + md
Example 34. The arithmetic mean between 33 and 77 is (ICAI)

Sol. (c) We know that,
a+b
A.M. of a & b =
2
P
Thus, A.M. between 33 and 77 is given by,
33 + 77
A.M. =
2
110
A.M. =
2
A.M. = 55
Therefore, the arithmetic mean between 33 and 77 is 55.
Hence, the correct option is (c) i.e., 55.
Example 35. Find the 3 arithmetic means between 15 and 35.
Sol. (c) Let A1, A2, A3 are 3 arithmetic means between 15 and 35
Then, first term a = 15, a5 = 35
We know that, an = a + (n – 1)d
Then, a5 = 15 + (5 – 1)d
⇒ 35 = 15 + (4)d
⇒ 35 – 15 = 4d
⇒ 20 = 4d
⇒d = 5
Thus,
A1=a2 = a + d = 15 + 5 = 20
A2 = a3 =a2 + d = 20 + 5 = 25
A3 = a4 = a3 + d = 25 + 5 = 30
Therefore, the three arithmetic means A1, A2, A3 are 20, 25, 30.
Example 36. The 4 arithmetic means between –2 and 23 are (ICAI)
(a) 3, 13, 8, 18 (b) 18, 3, 8, 13
(c) 3, 8, 13, 18 (d) None of these
Sol. (c) Given,
First term, a = –2
Last term = 23
In general an A.P. series can be written as
a, a + d, a + 2d, a + 3d, a + 4d, a + 5d,...
Let, 4 arithmetic means between –2 are 23 are A.M1, A.M2, A.M3, A.M4
Now, series can be written as
–2, A.M1, A.M2, A.M3, A.M4, 23
We know that, nth term of an A.P. is given by,
an = a + (n – 1)d
As per question,

23 = –2 + (6 – 1)d
⇒ 23 = –2 + 5d
⇒ 5d = 25
d = 5
So,
A.M1 = a + d = –2 + 5 = 3
A.M2 = a + 2d = –2 + 10 = 8
A.M3 = a + 3d = –2 + 15 = 13
A.M4 = a + 4d = –2 + 20 = 18
Therefore, the correct option is (c) i.e., 3, 8, 13, 18.
Sum of 1st n natural or counting numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, ..., n

 n(n + 1) 
S=  
 2 
Sum of the Squares of the first, n natural numbers:
n(n + 1)(2n + 1)
S = 12 + 22 + 32 +...+ n2 =
6
Sum of Cubes of the first, n natural numbers:
2
 n(n + 1) 
S = 13 + 23 + 33 + .... + n3 = 
 2 
Example 37. Find out the sum of 1st n natural odd numbers.
(a) n2n (b) 2n (c) n2 (d) None of these
Sol. (c) 1st n natural odd numbers are 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, ..., n
Thus, first term a1 = 1 and common difference (d) = a2 – a1 = 3 – 1 = 2
n
We know that, sum of terms in a sequence is Sn ℵ (2a (n 1)d)
2
n
Sn
⇒= ( ) 2
( ( ) (
2 1 + n−1 2 ) )
n
( )
⇒ Sn =
2
(2 + 2n − 2 )
n
( )
⇒ Sn =
2
(2n)
⇒ (Sn) = n2
Therefore, the sum of 1st n odd natural numbers (Sn) = n2
Hence the correct option is (c).
Example 38. The number of numbers between 74 and 25,556 divisible by 5 is
(a) 5,090 (b) 5,097 (c) 5,095 (d) None of these
P
Sol. (b) The numbers between 74 and 25,556 which are divisible by 5 are:
75, 80, 85, 90, ..........., 25550, 25555
Thus,
First term (a1) = 75
Common difference (d) = 5
Last term (an) = 25555
We know that, an = a + (n – 1)d
⇒ 25555 = 75 + (n – 1)5
⇒ 25555 = 75 + 5n – 5
⇒ 25555 = 70 + 5n
⇒ 25555 – 70 = 5n
⇒ 25485 = 5n
⇒ n = 5097
Therefore, the number of numbers between 74 and 25556 divisible by 5 is 5097.
Example 39. The sum of n terms of an AP is 3n2 + 5n. The series is
(a) 8, 14, 20, 26 (b) 8, 22, 42, 68
(c) 22, 68, 114,... (d) None of these
The sum of n terms of an AP (Sn) = 3n2 + 5n
We know that,
First term = t1 = S1
⇒ S2 = t1 + t2 ⇒ t2 = S2 – t1
⇒ S3 = t1 + t2 + t3 ⇒ t3 = S3 – S2
Thus, tn = Sn – Sn–1
t1 = S1 = 3(1)2 + 5(1) = 3 + 5 = 8
t2 = S2 – S2–1 = (3(2)2 + 5(2)) – 8 = (3(4) + 10) – 8 = 12 + 10 – 8 = 14
⇒ t2 = S2 – S2–1 = S2 – S1 = (3(2)2 + 5(2)) – 8 = (3(4) + 10) – 8 = 12 + 10 – 8 = 14
⇒ t3 = S3 – S3–1 = S3 – S2 = (3(3)2 + 5(3)) – 22 = (3(9) + 15) – 22 = 27 + 15 – 22 = 20
⇒ t4 = S4 – S4–1 = S4 – S3 = (3(4)2 + 5(4)) – 42 = (3(16) + 20) – 42 = 68 – 42 = 26
Therefore, the series is t1, t2, t3, t4, ..., tn = 8, 14, 20, 26, ...
PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART C)

1. Find the sum of the series, 201, 203, 205, ..., 299.
(a) 11,000 (b) 15,400 (c) 12,500 (d) 25,750

2. Insert two arithmetic means between 68 and 260.
(a) 132, 196 (b) 130, 194 (c) 70, 258 (d) None of these
3. The sum of the first 22 terms of the A.P.: 8, 3, –2, ...
(a) 979 (b) –979 (c) 875 (d) None of these
4. Insert 4 arithmetic means between 4 and 324.
(a) 64, 132, 164, 260 (b) 68, 132, 196, 260
(c) 32, 68, 132, 196 (d) None of these
5. Insert 4 A.M’s between 3 and 18 :
(a) 12, 15, 9, 6 (b) 6, 9, 12, 15 (c) 9, 6, 12, 15 (d) 15, 12, 9, 6
6. The sum of first 51 terms of an A.P. whose 2nd and 3th terms are 14 and 18 respectively.
(a) 5110 (b) 5120 (c) 5550 (d) 5610
7. Find the sum of the series, 201, 203, 205, ..., 299.
(a) 11,000 (b) 15,400 (c) 12,500 (d) 25,750
1 1
8. The sum of the series 3 + 7 + 10 + 14 + ........ to 17 terms is (ICAI)
2 2
1
2
9. The first term of an A.P. is 5, the last term is 45 and the sum of its terms is 1000, then
the number of terms is
(a) 20 (b) 30 (c) 35 (d) 40
10. Find the sum of first 20 terms of an A.P. whose first term is 3 and the last term is 57.
(a) 300 (b) 350 (c) 500 (d) 600
11. The sum of the first 22 terms of an A.P. whose d = 7 and 22nd term is 149 is
12. The sum of all natural numbers from 100 and 300, which are divisible by 4, is ________.
(a) 10,200 (b) 30,000 (c) 8,200 (d) 2,200
Answer Key
1. (c) 2. (a) 3. (b) 4. (b) 5. (b) 6. (d) 7. (c) 8. (c) 9. (d) 10. (d)
11. (b) 12. (a)
GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION (G.P.)

If a sequence is such that the one term is the multiple of the previous term. It means
that there is a common multiplier called a common ratio which is the ratio of a term
to its previous term.
E.g.:
(1) 1, 3, 9, 27, 81 … (2) 1, 1 , 1 , 1 , 1 , …. (3) 1, –4, 16, –64, 256 …

2 4 8 16
P
In (1), the common ratio = 3 = 3
1
1
2 = 1
In (2), the common ratio =
1 2
4
In (3), the common ratio = − = –4
1
Now, if we need to generalize the Geometric progression, where first term = a, common
ratio = r and number of terms = n, then
nth term of G.P. tn = arn–1

Any term tn
Common ratio: r = = =r
Preceding term tn − 1
Geometric Progression series = a + ar + ar 2 + ar 3 + ar 4 + ar 5 + … such that
t2 t3 t4
r
= = = = ...
t1 t2 t3
Example 40. If 5, 25, 125 … is a G.P, then what is the common ratio and its 15th term?
(a) 10, 515 (b) 5, 510 (c) 5, 515 (d) None of these
Sol. (c) Given series: 5, 25,125 ….

First term (a1) = 5
Second term(a2) = 25
We know that,
The sequence a1, a2, a3, ..., an is a Geometric Progression (G.P.),
a2 a3 an
when = = ...
= = r and r is the common ratio.
a1 a2 an − 1
a2 25
⇒ r= = = 5
a1 5
We know that, nthterm in the sequence tr = ar n-1
⇒ Tr = arn–1 = 5(5)15– 1 = 51 + 15 – 1 = 515

Therefore, the common ratio is 5 and its 15th term is 515
Example 41. t12 of the series – 128, 64, –32 is (ICAI)
−1 1
(a) (b) 16 (c) (d) None of these
6 16
Sol. (c) Given series is in G.P. since the common ratio is same.
We know that, general term of G.P. is given by,
tn = arn–1

where,
a = –128
64 1
r = =−
−128 2
So, the 12th term of series is,
t12 = ar12–1
⇒ t12 = (–128) × (–0.5)11

11
 17
⇒ t12 = −( 2 ) ×  − 
 2
1
⇒ t12 =
( 2 )4
1
⇒t =
12
16
1
Therefore, the correct option is (c) i.e., .
16
1 1
Example 42. In the series 25, 5, 1, ..., , then which term is ? (Dec 2019)
3125 3125
(a) 8th term (b) 9th term (c) 15th term (d) None of these
1
Sol. (a) Given series: 25, 5, 1, ...,
3125
Since, the common ratio is same, thus it is a G.P.
1
Here, ratio =
5
We know that,
tn = arn–1
1 1
⇒ 25 ( )n − 1 =
5 3125
1 1
⇒52 × =
5 n −1 3125
1 1
⇒ =
5 55
n −3
⇒n – 3 = 5
⇒n = 8
1
Thus, is 8th term.
3125
Hence, the correct answer is option (a) i.e. 8th term.
Example 43. Which term of series 3, 9, 27,… is 243?

P
Sol. (a) Given series: 3, 9, 27,…
First term (a1) = 3
Second term (a2) = 9
The sequence a1, a2, a3 … an is in Geometric Progression (G.P.),
a2 a3 an
when = = ...
= = r
a1 a2 an − 1
where r is the common ratio.
a2 9
⇒ r= = = 3
a1 3
We know that, nthterm in the sequence

tn = arn–1
⇒ 243 = (3)3n–1 ⇒ 243 = 31+n–1
⇒ 3 5 = 3n ⇒ n = 5
Therefore, 243 is the 5th term
Example 44. In a GP. if the fourth term is 3, then the product of first seven terms is
(a) 35 (b) 37 (c) 36 (d) 38 (June 2019)
Sol. (b) Given: Fourth term = 3
i.e., ar3 = 3
Now, Product of first seven terms
= a(ar) (ar2) (ar3) (ar4) (ar5) (ar6) = a7r 0 + 1 + 2 + ... + 6 = a7r21 = (ar3)7 = 37
Hence, the correct answer is option (b) i.e. 37.
Example 45. Which term of the G.P. 3, 3, 3 3 ,... is 729?

(a) 9th (b) 10th (c) 12th (d) None of these
Sol. (c) Given: 3, 3, 3 3, ...729

1 3× 3
Here, a = 3 and r = = = 3
3 3
Let 729 be nth term of G.P., then

tn = arn–1
n
⇒ 729 = 3 ( 3 )n − 1 ⇒ 729 = ( 3 )
⇒ 36 = ( 3 )n ⇒ ( 3 )12 = ( 3 )n
On comparing, we get
n = 12
Therefore, 729 is 12th term of G.P.

Example 46. The last term of the series x2, x, 1, ....... to 31 terms is (ICAI)
1 1
(a) x28 (b) (c) (d) None of these
x x 28
Sol. (c) We have, x2, x, 1, ...
 1
Here, the common ratio  r =  is same. So, the given series is in G.P.
 2
We know that,
nth term of an G.P. is, tn = arn–1
Therefore, the last or term of G.P. is given by,
31 − 1
21
a31 = (x )  
x
30
21
⇒ a31 = (x )   ⇒ a31 = x2–30 ⇒ a31 = x–28
x
1
\ a31 =
x 28
1
Hence, the correct option is (c) i.e., .
x 28
729
Example 47. Find the G.P where 3rd term is 9 and 7th term is ?
256
27 27
(a) 16, 12, 9, .... (b) −16, −12, −9,
4 4
(c) 1, 2, 9, 11... (d) None of these
Sol. (a) Given that, 3rd term (t3) = 9
729
7th term t7 = ( ) 256
We know that, nth term (tn) = arn–1
Thus,
729
t7
ar7 − 1 ar 6
⇒ = ⇒ 256 =
t3 ar 3 − 1 9 ar 2
4 729 81 34 3
⇒ r= = = ⇒r =
256 ×9 256 4 4
4
2
3  9 
Then, t3= ar ⇒ 9= a   ⇒ 9= a   ⇒ a= 16
2
4  16 
We know that, the series in GP are a, ar, ar2, ar3, ar4, ..., arn
2 3 4
3 3 3 3 27
Then, GP series is 16, 16   , 16   , 16   , 16   , ... = 16, 12, 9, , ...
4 4 4 4 4
P
PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART D)
1. The 6th term of the series: 0.04, 0.2, 1, ... is
(a) 5 (b) 25 (c) 125 (d) 625
2. Find the 6th
term and the common ratio of the geometric progression (G.P.):
3, 9, 27, 81, ...
(a) 255, 9 (b) 343, 3 (c) 729, 3 (d) 2187, 9
3. Which term of the series: 3, 9, 27, ... is 243?
(a) 3 (b) 4 (c) 5 (d) 6
4. The last term of the series 1, 2, 4, ... to 10 terms is (ICAI)
5. The 5th term of a G.P. is 32 and the 8th term is 256, then the common ratio of the
G.P. is
(a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6 (d) 16
3
6. If fifth term of a G.P. is 3 , then the product of first nine terms is
(a) 8 (b) 27 (c) 243 (d) 9
7. If the fifth and third terms of a G.P. are 256 and 16 respectively, then its 8th term is
8. Which term of the geometric progression (G.P.) 2, 6, 18, ... is 1458?
(a) 6th (b) 7th (c) 8th (d) 9th
1
9. In a geometric progression, the 3rd and 6th terms are respectively 1 and − . The first
8
term (a) and common ratio are respectively (Jan 2021)
1 1 1 1
(a) 4 and (b) 4 and − (c) 4 and − (d) 4 and
2 4 2 4
Answer Key
1. (c) 2. (c) 3. (c) 4. (a) 5. (a) 6. (b) 7. (a) 8. (b) 9. (c)
SUM OF GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION

Let’s take the sum of first terms of G.P. i.e. Sn = a + ar + ar2 + ar3 + … + arn – 1
Now, the formula of sum of G.P. has three cases:
a(r n − 1)
1. If common ratio, r > 1, then Sn =
r −1
a(1 − r n )
2. If common ratio, r < 1, then Sn =
1 −r
3. If common ratio, r = 1, then each term of the G.P. is equal to ‘a’.
Therefore, the sum of the G.P. simplifies to:

Sn = a + a + a + a + ... + a (n terms)
Sn = na
4. Sum of infinite geometric series:
a
S= , r < 1
1 −r
Example 48. Find the sum of series 1 + 4 + 16 + … up to 7 terms.

Sol. (b) Given series: 1 + 4 + 16 + …
First term (a1) = 1
4
Common ratio (r=
) = 4
1
a(r n 1)
We know that, sum of n terms (Sn )
r 1
1(47 − 1) (16384 − 1)
⇒ (S
= 7
) = = 5461
4−1 3
Therefore, the sum of series 1 + 4 + 16 + … up to 7 terms is 5461.
Example 49. The sum of terms of the G.P. 3, 6, 12, ... is 381. Find the value of n.
(a) 3 (b) 12 (c) 5 (d) 7
Sol. (d) Given G.P., 3 + 6 + 12 + ... = 381
6
Here, a = 3, r = = 2 and Sn = 381
3
We know that,
a(r n − 1)
Sn =
r −1
3[( 2 )n − 1 ] 3[( 2 )n − 1 ]
⇒ 381 = ⇒ 381 =
2−1 1
381
⇒ = ( 2 )n − 1
3
⇒ 127 = (2)n – 1
⇒ 128 = (2)n
⇒ 27 = (2)n
On comparing, we get
⇒ n = 7
Hence, the correct option is (d).
3 3 3069
Example 50. How many terms of the G.P. 3, , , ... be taken together to make ?
2 4 512
(a) 7 (b) 8 (c) 10 (d) Cannot be determined
P
3 3 3069
Sol. (c) Given, 3 + + + ... =
2 4 512
3
2 1 3069
r
Here, a = 3, = = = 0.5 and Sn =
3 2 512
We know that,
a(1 − r n )
Sn =
1−r
3069 3(1 − ( 0.5 )n )
⇒ =
512 1 − 0.5
3069 3(1 − ( 0.5 )n )
⇒ =
512 0.5
3069 0.5 1023 1
⇒ × = 1 − ( 0.5 )n ⇒ × = 1 − ( 0.5 )n
512 3 512 2
1023
⇒ = 1 − ( 0.5 )n
1024
n
1023  5 
⇒ 1− = 
1024  10 
10 n n
1 1  1   1 
⇒ =  ⇒   = 
1024  2 
2 2
⇒ n = 10
Therefore, the number of terms is 10.
1 1 1
Example 51. The sum of the infinite G. P. 1 − + − + ... is
2 4 8
2 3
(a) 2 (b) (c) (d) None of these
3 2
Sol. (b) Given that,
 −1   1   −1 
The sum of the infinite Sr =
1+ ( )
+ +  + ...
 2  4  8 
First term (a1) = 1
−1
Second term (a2 ) =
2
−1
Common ratio = 2 −1
(r ) =
1 2

We know that,
a
S∞ =
1 −r
Putting the values in the above formula,
1 1 1 2
⇒ S∞ = = = =
 −1  1 3 3
1−  1+
 2  2 2
Hence, the correct option (b).
Example 52. If y = 1 + x + x2 + ... + ∞, then x = (June 2019)

y−1 y+1 y y
(a) (b) (c) (d)
y y y+1 y−1
Sol. (a) Given: y = 1 + x + x2 + ...

Clearly, the common ratio (x) is the same, thus the series is in G.P.
Thus,
1
y= where common ratio = x
1−x
1
x =1−
y
y−1
x =
y
y−1
Hence, the correct answer is option (a) i.e. x = .
y
Example 53. The common ratio of a G.P. is 3, and the last term is 486. If the sum of these
terms is 728, find the first term.
(a) 2 (b) 5 (c) 6 (d) 3
Sol. (a) Given: r = 3, tn = 486 and Sn = 728
We know that,
nth term of G.P, tn = arn–1
486 = a(3)n–1
486 = a(3)n.3–1
a(3)n
⇒ 486 =
3
⇒ 1458 = a(3)n...(i)
a(1 − r n )
Also, Sum of terms of G.P., Sn =
1−r
a(1 − (3)n )
⇒ 728 =
1−3
P
a(1 − (3)n )
⇒ 728 =
−2
⇒ –1456 = a(1–(3)n)
⇒ –1456 = a – a(3)n
⇒ –1456 = a – 1458(from (i))
⇒ 1458 – 1456 = a ⇒ a = 2
Therefore, the first term is 2.
Example 54. The series 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 are in
(a) A.P. (b) G.P. (c) H.P. (d) None of these
Sol. (a) Given sequence: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15
Here, a1 = 3, a 2 = 6, a 3 = 9, a 4 = 12, a5 = 15
The sequence a1, a2, a3, a4, ..., an is in Arithmetic Progression (A.P.),
when a2 – a1 = a2 – a3 = ... = an – an–1
Thus, a2 – a1 = 6 – 3 = 3
a3 – a2 = 9 – 6 = 3
a4 – a3 = 12 – 9 = 3
Clearly, the common difference is constant i.e. 3.
Therefore, the given sequence is in Arithmetic Progression (A.P.).
Example 55. If the first term of a G.P. exceeds the second term by 2 and the sum to infinity
is 50, the series is __________.
32 5 10 10
(a) 10, 8, , ... (b) 10, 8, , ... (c) 10, , , ... (d) None of these
5 2 3 9
Sol. (a) Given: S∞ = 50
Let the first term be a
The two terms will be a, a – 2
a−2
Then, common ratio (r) =
a
We know that,
a
Sum of infinite series is given as, S∞ =
1−r
a
50 =
a−2
1−
a
a
50 =
a−a+2
a

a2
50 =
2
a = 100
2
a = 10
Thus, the first two terms are a = 10, a – 2 = 8
10 − 2 4
Now, r = =
10 5
2
2 4
Third term, ar = 10 ×  
5 
32
Thus, the series is 10, 8, , ...
5
32
Hence, the correct answer is option (a) i.e., 10, 8, , ... .
5
1 2
Example 56. The sum of the series +1+ +... to 18 terms is (ICAI)
3 3
9841( 3 + 1) 9841
3 3
Sol. (a) As we know that,

Sum of first n terms of a G.P.
a(r n − 1)
Sn =
(r − 1)
We have,
1 1
+1+ + ... to 18 terms
3 3
1
1 1
Here,
= a = ,r = 3, n 18
=
3 3
a(r n − 1)
So, Sn =
(r − 1)
 1  18
  (( 3 ) − 1)
3 19682
⇒ S18 =  ⇒ S18 =
( 3 − 1) 3 ( 3 − 1)
On rationalizing,
19682 3+1
⇒ S18 = ×
3 ( 3 − 1) 3+1
19682( 3 + 1)
⇒ S18 =
3 (( 3 )2 − (1)2 )
P
19682( 3 + 1)
⇒ S18 =
2 3
9841( 3 + 1)
\ S18 =
3
9841( 3 + 1)
Hence, the correct option is (a) i.e., .
3
PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART E)

1. The sum of first 6 terms of the G.P.: 4, 12, 36, ... is
(a) 1450 (b) 1456 (c) 728 (d) 364
2. The sum of the series 243, 81, 27, …. to 8 terms is
13 1
30 9
3. Find the sum of the infinite geometric progression 3, 1.5, 0.75, ...
(a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 8 (d) Cannot be determined
1
4. If the sum of an infinite geometric progression is 10 and the common ratio is , then
2
the first term is
(a) 5 (b) 7.5 (c) 2.5 (d) 10
4 8 16
5. Find the sum of the infinite terms: 2, , , , ...
y y2 y3
2y 4y 3y
(a) (b) (c) (d) None of these
y−2 y−2 y−2
6. The sum of how many terms of the sequence 256, 128, 64, ... is 511.
Answer Key
1. (b) 2. (d) 3. (b) 4. (a) 5. (a) 6. (b)
GEOMETRIC MEAN
b c
If we take terms a, b, c which are in G.P. then, = i.e., b2 = ac thus b is called the
geometric mean of a and c. a b
1
Example 57. Insert 3 geometric means between 1 and .
16
1 1 1 1 1
(a) 1, , (b) , , (c) 1 , 1 , 1 (d) None of these
2 4 2 4 8 4 8 16

1
Sol. (b) Let the three geometric means between 1 and are g1, g2, g3 i.e., series is 1, g1,
16
g2, g3, 1
16
First term (a) = 1
We know that, nth term in the sequence

tn = arn–1
1 1
⇒ (1)r 5 − 1 ⇒
= (1)r 4
=
16 16
1 1
⇒ r4 ⇒ r =
=
16 2
Then,
2 −1
1 1
⇒ g1 = T2 = (1)   =
2 2
3−1 2
1 1 1
⇒ g2 = T3 = (1)   =  =
2 2 4
4 −1 3
1 1 1
⇒ g3 = T4 = (1)   =   =
2 2 8
1 1 1
Therefore, the geometric means are , ,
2 4 8
Example 58. The A.M. of two positive numbers is 40 and their G. M. is 24. The numbers are
(a) (72, 8) (b) (70, 10) (c) (60, 20) (d) None of these (ICAI)
Sol. (a) Detailed Method:
Let the two numbers are a & b.
We know that,
a+b
A.M. of two a & b =
2
G.M. of two a & b = ab
As per question,
A.M. of two positive numbers = 40
a+b
⇒ = 40 ⇒ a + b = 80 ...(i)
2
Also, G.M. of two positive numbers = 24
⇒ ab = 24
Squaring both sides,
576
⇒ ab = 576 ⇒ a =
b
P
Substitute the value of a in eq (i),
576
⇒ + b = 80 ⇒ 576 +b2 = 80b
b
⇒ b2 – 80b + 576 = 0
⇒ b2 – 72b – 8b + 576 = 0
⇒ b(b – 72) –8(b – 72) = 0
⇒ (b – 8) (b – 72) = 0
⇒ b = 8 or b = 72
From eq (i),
⇒ a = 80 – b
⇒ a = 80 – 8 or a = 80 – 72
⇒ a = 72 or a = 8
Therefore, the two numbers are 8 and 72.
Trick: Go by choices
For option (a) only, both the conditions are satisfied.
72 + 8 80
i.e. = = 40 (A,M)
2 2
and 72 × 8 = 576 = 24 (G.M)
Hence, the correct option is (a) i.e., (72, 8).
SELECTION OF TERMS OF A GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION
Number of Terms Terms Common Ratio
a
3 , a, ar r
r
a a
4 , , ar , ar 3 r2
r 3 r
a a
5 , , a, ar , ar 2 r
r 2 r
a a a
6 , , , ar , ar 3 , ar 5 r2
r 5
r 3 r
a a a
7 , , , a, ar , ar 2 , ar 3 r
r 3
r 2 r
Example 59. The product of the first three terms of a G.P. is –1. Find the middle term.
(a) -1 (b) 0 (c) 1 (d) 3

a
Sol. (a) Let the three terms of G.P. be , a, ar
r
Product of the first three terms of a G.P. = –1
a
⇒ × a × ar = −1
r
⇒ a3 = –1
⇒ a3 = (–1)3
⇒ a = –1
Therefore, the middle term is –1.
Example 60. The sum of 3 numbers of a G.P. is 39 and their product is 729. The numbers
are
a
Sol. (b) Let the three numbers are , a, ar
r
Given that the product of three numbers is 729.
Then,
a
⇒ × a × ar =
729
r
⇒ a3 = 729
⇒a=9
Also, the sum of three terms is 39, then
a 9
⇒ + a + ar =
39 ⇒ + 9 + 9r =
39
r r
9
⇒ + 9r= 39 − 9 = 30
r
⇒ 9r2 – 30r + 9 = 0
⇒ 9r2 – 3r – 27r + 9 = 0
⇒ 3r(3r – 1) –9(3r – 1) = 0
⇒ (3r – 9) (3r – 1) = 0
1
⇒ r = ,3
3
If r = 3 then the three terms are 3, 9, 27
1
If r = then the three terms are 27, 9, 3
3
Therefore, the three terms are 3, 9, 27.
P
Example 61. Three numbers are in A.P. and their sum is 21. If 1, 5, 15 are added to them
respectively, they form a G.P. The numbers are (ICAI)
Sol. (a) Let the three numbers be a – d, a, a + d where, d is the common difference
Given that, the sum of three numbers is 21
then,
⇒ a – d + a + a + d = 21
⇒ 3a = 21
⇒a = 7
Thus, the three terms are 7 – d, 7, 7 + d.
Given that, if 1, 5, 15 are added then, the series becomes G.P.
Then, the G.P. series is 7 – d + 1, 7 + 5, 7 + d + 15 = 8 – d, 12, 22 + d
⇒ 122 = (8 – d) × (22 + d)
⇒ 144 = 8d + 176 – d2 – 22d
⇒ d2 + 14d + 144 – 176 = 0
⇒ d2 + 14d – 32 = 0
⇒ d2 + 16d – 2d – 32 = 0
⇒ d(d + 16) –2(d + 16) = 0
⇒ (d – 2) (d + 16) = 0
⇒ d = –16 or d = 2
When d = – 16
Thus, required three numbers are
First number = a – d = 7– (–16) = 23
Second number = a = 7
Third number = a + d = 7 + (–16) = –9
When d = 2
First number = a – d = 7 – 2 = 5
Second number = a = 7
Third number = a + d = 7 + 2 = 9
Therefore, the correct option is (a).
2 4
Example 62. The sum of the infinite series 1 + + + ... is
3 9
1 2
3 3
( ) =1 +  23  +  94  + …
   
The sum of the infinite S r
   
First term (a1) = 1

2
Second term (a2 ) =
3
2
3 2
Common ratio (r=) =
1 3
We know that, sum of infinite terms of G.P. is given b
a
S∞ =
1−r
Then,
a 1 1 1
⇒ S∞ = = = = =3
1−r 2 2 1
1−  1−
3 3 3
Hence, the correct option (b).
Example 63. Sum of n terms of the series 2 + 22 + 222 + ... is
2 2
(a)
9
(
10 n + 1 − 10 − 9n ) (b)
81
(
10 n + 1 − 10 − 9n )
(c) 2 ( 10 n +1
− 10 − 9n ) (d) None of these
Sol. (b) Given series: 2 + 22 + 222 + …
⇒ Sn = 2 + 22 + 222 + ...
2
⇒ Sn =
9
(
9 + 99 + 999 + ... n terms )
Sn
⇒=
2
9
(( ) ( ) (
10 − 1 + 10 2 − 1 + 103 − 1 + ... n terms ) )
2
⇒ üüüüüü
=
n
9
+ (2
+ 3
+ n
− )
⇒ Sn
=
 n
2  10 10 − 1


− n
( )
9  10 − 1 
 
2  10 n + 1 − 10 
⇒ Sn
=  − n
9  9 

2  10 n + 1 − 10 −9n 
⇒ Sn = 
9  9 

2
⇒ Sn
=
81
(
10 n + 1 − 10 − 9n )
P
Example 64. Sum of terms of the series 0.1 + 0.11 + 0.111 + ….
 n
 1  
 n
 1   2 
(a) 2 9n − 1 + 
   (b) 9n − 1 +   
  10   81   10  
 
 n
1   1  
(c) 9n − 1 +    (d) None of these
81   10  

Sol. (c) Given series: 0.1 + 0.11 + 0.111 +….
⇒ Sn = 2 + 22 + 222 + ...
1
⇒ S=
n
9
(
0.9 + 0.99 + 0.999 + ... n terms )
1
⇒ Sn=
9 
( ( ) ( )
1 − 0.1) + 1 − 0.01 + 1 − 0.001 + ... n terms  )
1  1   1   1   1 
⇒ S=
n   1 −  + 1 −  + 1 −  + ...  1 −  
9  10   10 2   103   10 n 
1  1 1 1 1 
⇒ Sn =  n −  + + +...  
9  10 10
2
10 3
10 n 
 1 
 1− 
1 1 10 n 
⇒ Sn = n− ×
9 10 1 
 1− 
 10 
 1 
 1− 
1 1 10 n 
⇒ Sn = n− ×
9 10 9 
 
 10 
  n 
1 1  1   
⇒ Sn = n− (1 −  
9  9  10   
  
 n
1   1  
Sn
⇒= 9n − 1 +  
81   10  
 
Example 65. The sum of 1.03 + (1.03)2 + (1.03)3 + …. to n terms is
103
(a) 103{(1.03)n – 1} (b) {(1.03)n – 1}
3
(c) (1.03)n – 1 (d) None of these

Sol. (b) Given series: 1.03 + (1.03)2 + (1.03)3 + …. to n terms
First term (a1) = 1.03
Second term (a2) = (1.03)2
(1.03)2
Common ratio
= (r ) = 1.03
1.03
a(r n − 1)
We know that, the sum of series in a G.P. =
r −1
1.03(1.03n − 1) 1.03(1.03n − 1) 103
= = = (1.03n − 1)
1.03 − 1 0.03 3

1 1 1
Example 66. Given x, y, z are in G.P. and xp = yq = zm, then , , are in
p q m
(a) A.P. (b) G.P. (c) Both A.P. and G.P.(d) None of these
x, y, z are in G.P.
Let us consider xp = yq = zm = k
Thus
1 1 1
p q
k
= x,
= k y , k
= m z
As x, y, z are in G.P. we get that y2 = xz

⇒ y2 = xy
2
 1 1 1
⇒  kq 
p
k
=× km
 
 
 
 2 1 1
+

⇒ k q 
k
=
p m
 
 
 
On comparing on both sides, we get
2 1 1
⇒ = +
q p m
1 1 1
Therefore, , , are in A.P.
p q m
Example 67. If unity is added to the sum of any number of terms of the A.P. 3, 5, 7, 9, ...
the resulting sum is
(a) ‘a’ perfect cube (b) ‘a’ perfect square
(c) ‘a’ number (d) None of these
P
Sol. (b) Given series 3, 5, 7, 9,…
First term (a1) = 3
Common difference (d) = a2 – a1 = 5 – 3 = 2
We know that, sum of n terms of an A.P. is given by
n
(Sn ) ℵ (2a (n 1)d)
2
n
⇒ (S
= n
) (2(3) + (n − 1)2)
2
n
⇒ (Sn ) = (6 + 2n − 2)
2
n
⇒ (Sn ) = (4 + 2n) ⇒ (Sn) = n (n + 2)
2
⇒ (Sn) = n2 + 2n
If unity is added to sum of n terms (Sn), then
⇒ (Sn) = n2 + 2n + 1 = (n + 1)2
Therefore, the resulting sum is a perfect square.
PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART F)

1. Find the sum of the following series: 0.5 + 0.55 + 0.555 + ... to n terms
5  (1 − 0.1n )  5  (1 − 0.1n ) 
(a)  n −  (b) n − 
81  9  9  9 
1 (1 + 0.1n ) 
(c)  n −  (d) None of these
9  9 
2. The sum of square of first n natural numbers is

n (n + 1) n (n + 1)( 2n + 1)
(a) (b)
2 6
n (n − 1)(n − 1) n (n + 1)(n + 2 )
(c) (d)
6 6
3. Find the sum to n terms of the series: 7 + 77 + 777 + ... to n terms.
7 7n 7 7n
(a) (10 n + 1 − 10 ) − (b) (10 n + 1 − 10 ) +
9 9 9 9
7  10 (10 n − 1)  7 7n
(c)  − n
 (d) (10 n + 1 − 10 ) +
9 9  81 9

4. If Arithmetic Mean and Geometric Mean between two number are 5 and 4 respectively,
then these numbers are (Dec 2022)
(a) 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 8 (c) 4 and 6 (d) 1 and 16
Answer Key
1. (b) 2. (b) 3. (c) 4. (b)
Example 68. A person pays `975 by monthly instalment each less than the former by `5.
The first instalment is `100. The time by which the entire amount will be paid is (ICAI)
(a) 10 months (b) 15 months (c) 14 months (d) None of these

First term (a) = 100
Common difference (d) = – 5
Sum of n terms (Sn) = 975
We know that,
n
The sum of n terms (S= ) (2a + (n − 1)d)
n
2
n
⇒
= 975 (2(100) + (n − 1)( −5 ))
2
n
⇒ 975
= (200 − 5n + 5 ) ⇒ 1950 = 200n – 5n2 + 5n
2
⇒ 5n2 – 205n + 1950 = 0
⇒ n2 – 15n – 26n + 390 = 0
⇒ n(n – 15) – 26(n – 15) = 0
⇒ (n – 15) (n – 26) = 0
⇒ n = 15, 26
Therefore, the required time by which the entire amount will be paid is 15 months.
Example 69. The population of a country was 55 crores in 2005 and is growing at 2% p.a
C.I. then the population in the year 2015 is estimated as (ICAI)
(a) 57 crores (b) 62 crores (c) 81 crores (d) None of these
Sol. (d) Given,
Population in 2005 = 55 crores
Growth rate (r) = 2%
Time period (T) from 2005-2015 = 10 years
We know that,
n 10
 r   2 
(A) P  1 +
Amount =  ⇒ (A)
= 55  1 + 
 100   100 
⇒ (A) = 55 (1 + 0.02)10
P
⇒ (A) = 55 (1.02)10
⇒ (A) = 55 × 1.22
⇒ (A) = 67.1
Therefore, the population in 2015 is estimated as 67.1 crores.
Hence, the correct option is (d).
PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART G)

1. The sum of the series –8, –6, –4, …n terms is 5, then the numbers of terms n is
(a) 11 (b) 12 (c) 13 (d) 10
2 2
2. The 3rd term of a G.P is and the 6th term is , then the 1st term is
3 13
1
(a) 6 (b) (c) 2 (d) None of these
3
3. Insert two arithmetic means between 68 and 260, the two terms are
(a) 132,196 (b) 130,194 (c) 70, 258 (d) None of these
4. The sum to m terms of the series 1 + 11 + 111 + ……. up to m terms, is equal to:
1 1
(a)
81
(
10m + 1 − 9m − 10 ) (b)
27
(
10m + 1 −9m − 1 )
1
(c)
27
(
10m + 1 −9m − 10 ) (d) None of these
5. The value of c such that a, –3, b, 5, c are in A.P is:

(a) –7 (b) 1 (c) 13 (d) 9
6. If the sum of first ‘n’ terms of an A.P. is 6n2+ 6n , then the fourth term of the series:
(a) 120 (b) 72 (c) 48 (d) 24
7. The sum to m terms of the series 1 + 11 + 111 + … up to n terms, is equal to:

1 1
(a)
81
(
10n + 1 −9n − 10 ) (b)
27
(
10n + 1 −9n − 10 )
(c) (10n+1 – 9n – 10) (d) None of these
8. If third term and seventh term of an A.P are eighteen and thirty respectively, then sum
of the first twenty terms will be:
(a) 540 (b) 610 (c) 740 (d) 810
9. If x, y, z are the terms in G.P. then the terms x2 + y2, xy + yz, y2 + z2 are in:
(a) A.P. (b) G.P. (c) H.P. (d) None of these

10. The value of 13 + 23 + 33 + 43 + … + m3 is equal to:
3
(
m m + 1
(a) 
)  (b)
( )(
m m + 1 2m + 1 )
 2  6
 
2
(c) 
(
m m + 1  )
 (d) None of these
 2 
 
1 1 1
11. The sum of the infinite G.P. 1 + + + + … is equal to :
3 9 27
(a) 1.95 (b) 1.5 (b) 1.75 (c) None of these
12. An arithmetic progression has 13 terms whose sum is 143. The third term is 5 so the
first term is :
(a) 4 (b) 7 (c) 9 (d) 2
13. In a G.P. the sixth term is 729 and the common difference is 3, then the first term of
G.P. is :
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d) 7
14. If the sum of n terms of an A.P be 3n2 - n and its common difference is 6, then its first
term is :
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d) 5
15. If the sum of n terms of an A.P be 2n2 + 5n, then its nth term is:
(a) 4n – 1 (b) 3n – 4 (c) 4n + 3 (d) 3n + 4
16. In an A.P., if common difference is 2, sum of n terms is 49, 7th term is 13, then
n = ___________
(a) 0 (b) 5 (c) 7 (d) 13
17. If 8th term of an A.P is 15, then sum of its 15 terms is
(a) 15 (b) 0 (c) 225 (d) 225/2
18. The sum of the third and ninth term of an A.P is 8. Find the sum of the first 11 terms
of the progression.
(a) 44 (b) 22 (c) 19 (d) 11
19. If each month `100 increase in any sum then find out the total sum after 10 months,
If the sum of first month is `2000
(a) `24,500 (b) `24,000 (c) `50,000 (d) `60,000
20. If sum of 3 arithmetic means between “a” and 22 is 42, then “a” =
(a) 14 (b) 11 (c) 10 (d) 6
21. Rohan saves Rs. 100 in the first week and increases his savings by Rs. 10 every
week. If he wants to save a total of Rs. 500, how many weeks will it take him to
achieve his goal?
(a) 10 (b) 19 (c) 20 (d) 24
P
1 1
22. The infinite G.P. with first term and sum is
4 3
1 1 1 1 1 1
(a) , , , ... (b) ,− , , ...
4 16 64 4 16 64
1 1 1
(c) , , , ... (d) None of these
4 8 16
23. The mth term of an A.P. is n and nth term of an A.P. is m. The rth term of an A.P. is
r
(a) m + n + r (b) n + m – 2r (c) m + n +(d) m + n – r
2
24. The product of 2 numbers in G.P. is 729 and the sum of squares is 819. The numbers
are (ICAI)
2 1
25. The number of the terms of the series 10 + 9 + 9 + 9 + ...... will amount to 155 is
3 3
(a) 30 (b) 31 (c) 32 (d) None of these (ICAI)
26. The first, second and seventh term of an A.P. are in G.P. and the common difference is
2, then the second term of an A.P. is
5 3 1
(a) (b) 2 (c) (d)
2 2 2
27. Find three numbers in G.P. such that their sum is 21, and the sum of their squares is
189:
(a) 5, 7, 9 (b) 3, 7, 11 (c) 3, 6, 12 (d) 4, 8, 9
28. Find the sum of all natural numbers between 250 and 1000 which are exactly divisible
by 3.
(a) 1,56,375 (b) 1,56,357 (c) 1,65,375 (d) 1,65,357
29. A man employed in a company is promised a salary of `73000 every month for the
first year and an increment of `1000 in his monthly salary every succeeding year. How
much does the man earn from the company in 20 years?
(a) ₹30,00,000 (b) ₹27,50,000 (c) ₹19,10,000 (d) ₹7,90,000
30. On 1st January every year a person buys National Saving Certificates of value exceeding
that of his last year’s purchase by `100. After 10 years, he finds that the total value of
the certificates purchased by him is `54,500. Find the value of certificates purchased by
him in the first year.
(a) ₹6,000 (b) ₹4,000 (c) ₹5,000 (d) ₹5,500
Answer Key
1. (c) 2. (a) 3. (a) 4. (a) 5. (d) 6. (c) 7. (a) 8. (d) 9. (b) 10. (c)
11. (b) 12. (d) 13. (b) 14. (a) 15. (c) 16. (c) 17. (c) 18. (a) 19. (b) 20. (d)
21. (b) 22. (a) 23. (d) 24. (c) 25. (a) 26. (a) 27. (c) 28. (a) 29. (a) 30. (c)

SUMMARY
An ordered collection of numbers a1, a2, a3, a4, …, an, … is a sequence if there is some
pattern and then an is called the term of the sequence, corresponding to any value of
the natural number n.
An expression of the form a1 + a2 + a3 + … + an + … which is the sum of the elements of
the sequence is called a series.
If the series contains a finite number of elements, it is called a finite series, otherwise
called an infinite series.
ARITHMETIC PROGRESSION:
A sequence a1, a2 ,a3, …, is called an Arithmetic Progression (A.P.) when
a2 – a1 = a3 – a2 = … = an – an–1= d
This constant ‘d’ is called the common difference of the A.P.
(a) If 3 numbers a, b, c are in A.P., then b – a = c – b or a + c = 2b; b is called the
arithmetic mean between a and c.
a+b
’or’ A.M. of a and b =
2
(b) nth term of an A.P., an = a + (n – 1)d where a = first term, d = common difference
= an – an–1
n n
Sum of n terms of AP: S=  2a + (n − 1)d  or Sn = [ a + l ]
n
2   2
where, l is the last term of A.P.
n(n + 1)
Sum of 1st n natural or counting numbers: S =
2
Sum of 1st n odd numbers : S = n2
Sum of 1st n even numbers : S = n(n + 1)
n(n + 1)(2n + 1)
Sum of the squares of the first n natural numbers :
6
2
Sum of the cubes of the first n natural numbers is  n(n + 1) 
 
 2 
GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION
If in a sequence of terms, each term is a constant multiple of the preceding term, then
the sequence is called a Geometric Progression (G.P.).
nth term of a GP = arn–1

any term an
The constant multiplier is called the common ratio
= = = r
preceding term an − 1
Sum of first n terms of a GP :
P
(1 − r n )
Sn = a when r < 1
1−r
(r n − 1)
Sn = a when r > 1
r −1
a
Sum of infinite geometric series
= S∞ ,r < 1
1−r
b c
If a, b, c are in G.P. we get = ⇒ b 2 =ac, b is called the geometric mean between a
a b
and c


E-Book - Sequence and Series

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

E-Book - Sequence and Series

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

E-Book - Sequence and Series

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CHAPTER

6 Sequence and Series

Why to study sequence and series?

E.g.: Tell which one is in the sequence?

Example 5. If u1 = 2, u2 = 4, u3 = 6, u4 = 8, then S4 is:

Sol. (a) Given that, u1 = 2, u2 = 4, u3 = 6, u4 = 8

Sequence and Series 3

Hence, the correct option is (a).

(c) 2 7 + 2 9 + 2 11 + 2 13 (d) None of these

Hence, the correct option is (a).

ARITHMETIC PROGRESSION (A.P.)

Sequence and Series 5

(a) 5 (b) 10 (c) 15 (d) None of these

Sol. (a) Given that, t2 = 7, t7 = 27

(a) 2 + 2 + 3 (b) 3 + 2 + 3 (c) 2 + 3 + 5 + 1 (d) None of these

4. The 20th term of the A.P: 3, 5, 7, 9, ... is

SELECTION OF TERMS OF AN ARITHMETIC PROGRESSION

Number of Terms Terms Common Difference

Sequence and Series 9

Sequence and Series 11

PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART B)

SUM OF THE FIRST N TERMS

Sol. (b) Given sequence 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, ... to 100 terms

Sequence and Series 13

(a) 20 (b) 30 (c) 15 (d) None of these

Sequence and Series 15

Sequence and Series 17

Example 34. The arithmetic mean between 33 and 77 is (ICAI)

Sequence and Series 19

 Sum of 1st n natural or counting numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, ..., n

PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART C)

Sequence and Series 21

GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION (G.P.)

(1) 1, 3, 9, 27, 81 … (2) 1, 1 , 1 , 1 , 1 , …. (3) 1, –4, 16, –64, 256 …

nth term of G.P. tn = arn–1

Sol. (c) Given series: 5, 25,125 ….

We know that, nthterm in the sequence tr = ar n-1

⇒ Tr = arn–1 = 5(5)15– 1 = 51 + 15 – 1 = 515

Sequence and Series 23

⇒ t12 = (–128) × (–0.5)11

Example 43. Which term of series 3, 9, 27,… is 243?

We know that, nthterm in the sequence

Example 45. Which term of the G.P. 3, 3, 3 3 ,... is 729?

Sol. (c) Given: 3, 3, 3 3, ...729

Let 729 be nth term of G.P., then

Sequence and Series 25

SUM OF GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION

Therefore, the sum of the G.P. simplifies to:

Example 48. Find the sum of series 1 + 4 + 16 + … up to 7 terms.

Therefore, the number of terms is 10.

Hence, the correct option is (c).

Sequence and Series 29

Example 52. If y = 1 + x + x2 + ... + ∞, then x =  (June 2019)

Sol. (a) Given: y = 1 + x + x2 + ...

Sequence and Series 31

Sol. (a) As we know that,

PRACTICE QUESTIONS (PART E)

(a) 1450 (b) 1456 (c) 728 (d) 364

2. The sum of the series 243, 81, 27, …. to 8 terms is

Example 34. The arithmetic mean between 33 and 77 is (ICAI)

Sum of 1st n natural or counting numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, ..., n

Example 52. If y = 1 + x + x2 + ... + ∞, then x = (June 2019)

nth term of a GP = arn–1

Sum of first n terms of a GP :