Question

which word best describes this formula for the sequence $a_n$?
$a_n = 4a_{n - 1} + 3n - 17$

explicit
recursive

Explanation:

A recursive sequence formula defines each term using one or more previous terms. Here, $a_n$ is defined using $a_{n-1}$, the prior term in the sequence. An explicit formula would define $a_n$ solely in terms of $n$, without referencing earlier terms.

Answer:

recursive