When finding the sum of the arithmetic series 4 + 1 + –2 + –5 + –8 + –11, you will have a step of work that contains the number –3. Use complete sentences to describe how the –3 was calculated and what it means.

Question

cwrw238 · Answer

-3 is the common difference of the series
= second term - first :  1 - 4 = -3    or  -5-(-2)   = -3.  etc
the common difference is the value you add to any term to get the next term.
 - thats what makes the series arithmetic.