Question

identify the pattern for the following sequence. find the next three terms in the sequence
5, 2, -1, -4, __, , __,...
a. subtract 3; -7, -10, -13
b. add 3; -7, -10, -13
c. subtract -3; 7, 10, 13
d. add 3; 1, 4, 7

please select the best answer from the choices provided

a
b
c
d

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the sequence pattern

Check the difference between consecutive terms: \(2 - 5=-3\), \(-1 - 2=-3\), \(-4 - (-1)=-3\). So the pattern is subtracting 3 (or adding \(-3\)) each time.

Step2: Find the next terms

First next term: \(-4 - 3=-7\)
Second next term: \(-7 - 3=-10\)
Third next term: \(-10 - 3=-13\)
This matches option a.

Answer:

a. Subtract 3; -7, -10, -13