SOLUTION: In an arithmetic sequence, a1=23 and a8=44. Find the fifth term a5. I have no idea how to do these problems. Please show me the steps to solve this problem. Thank you. I am ge

Algebra ->  Sequences-and-series -> SOLUTION: In an arithmetic sequence, a1=23 and a8=44. Find the fifth term a5. I have no idea how to do these problems. Please show me the steps to solve this problem. Thank you. I am ge      Log On


   

Question 37829: In an arithmetic sequence, a1=23 and a8=44. Find the fifth term a5. I have no idea how to do these problems. Please show me the steps to solve this problem. Thank you. I am getting 35 for an answer and don't think that I am right.
Answer by longjonsilver(2297) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
a1=23
a8=44

right then: first term of a AS or AP is a.
and 8th term is a+7d

so we have a=23 and a+7d=44.

Now, subtract them:
a+7d - a = 44-23
7d = 21
so d = 3

and hence 5th term, written as a+4d, is:
a+4d
23 + 4(3)
23 + 12
35

jon.