Find a formula for the nth term of the arithmetic sequence shown in the graph.
-Bruce agrees to go to work for Jim at a rate of 9¢ for the first day, 18¢ for the second day, 36¢ for the third day, 72¢ for the fourth day, and so on. What will Bruce's daily pay be on day 5, and how
Much total wages will he have earned at the end of that day?
A) Pay on day 5 = $2.88; Total pay through day 5 = $2.79
B) Pay on day 5 = $2.88; Total pay through day 5 = $1.35
C) Pay on day 5 = $1.44; Total pay through day 5 = $2.79
D) Pay on day 5 = $0.16; Total pay through day 5 = $0.31

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sequence is geometric, not arithmetic, with a common ratio of 2. The pay on day 5 is 9 * 2^4 = 144¢ = $1.44. The total pay through day 5 is the sum of a geometric series: 9(1 - 2^5)/(1 - 2) = 279¢ = $2.79.

Find a Formula for the Nth Term of the Arithmetic