SOLUTION: the third term of an arithmetic sequence is 34 and the 15th term is -14. Determine the first 2 terms

Algebra ->  Sequences-and-series -> SOLUTION: the third term of an arithmetic sequence is 34 and the 15th term is -14. Determine the first 2 terms      Log On


   

Question 1070605: the third term of an arithmetic sequence is 34 and the 15th term is -14. Determine the first 2 terms
Answer by stanbon(75887) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
the third term of an arithmetic sequence is 34 and the 15th term is -14. Determine the first 2 terms
-------
a(1)+2d = 34
a(1)+14d = -14
--------------------
Subtract and solve for "d"::
12d = -48
d = -4
-------------------------
Solve for a(1)
a(1) + 2(-8) = 34
a(1) = 50
a(2) = 50-4 = 46
-------------
Cheers,
Stan H.
------------