Question

find the missing value of x in the arithmetic sequence below.
4, 1, x, -5, -8
skill code: 1301001

Explanation:

Step1: Find the common difference

In an arithmetic sequence, the common difference \(d\) is constant. We can find \(d\) by subtracting the first term from the second term: \(d = 1 - 4 = -3\).

Step2: Calculate the missing term \(x\)

To find \(x\), we add the common difference \(d\) to the second term. So \(x = 1 + d = 1 + (-3) = -2\). We can also verify by checking the next terms: \(-2 + (-3) = -5\) (which matches the given fourth term) and \(-5 + (-3) = -8\) (which matches the given fifth term).

Answer:

\(-2\)