Question

functions and lines
finding the first terms of an arithmetic sequence using an explicit rule
find the first four terms of the sequence given by the following.
$a_n = 59 - 8(n - 1)$, $n = 1, 2, 3...$

Explanation:

Step1: Find \(a_1\)

Substitute \(n = 1\) into \(a_n=59 - 8(n - 1)\).
\(a_1=59-8(1 - 1)=59-8\times0 = 59\).

Step2: Find \(a_2\)

Substitute \(n = 2\) into the formula.
\(a_2=59-8(2 - 1)=59-8\times1 = 51\).

Step3: Find \(a_3\)

Substitute \(n = 3\) into the formula.
\(a_3=59-8(3 - 1)=59-8\times2 = 43\).

Step4: Find \(a_4\)

Substitute \(n = 4\) into the formula.
\(a_4=59-8(4 - 1)=59-8\times3 = 35\).

Answer:

\(59, 51, 43, 35\)