Question

which word best describes this formula for the sequence $a_n$?
$a_n = -8a_{n - 2} + 5a_{n - 3} + 6a_{n - 4}$

explicit
recursive

Explanation:

A recursive sequence formula defines a term using previous terms of the sequence. The given formula defines $a_n$ using $a_{n-2}$, $a_{n-3}$, and $a_{n-4}$, which are earlier terms in the sequence. An explicit formula would define $a_n$ directly in terms of $n$ without referencing prior terms.

Answer:

recursive