Question

Find the sum of the arithmetic series
16+10+4....+98

I want to say that this is impossible since it is being subtracted by 6 each time it can't eventually end up being '+98'.

If it can I have figured out some of the formula:
Sn= n/2 (16+98)

What would 'n' be?

Answer 1

You just need to determine the number of the term which has a value of 98 to substitute for n in the equation.

Remember an = a1 + (n - 1)d?

Answer 2

Yes. But I'm not quite sure I understand how that plays into the series.

Answer 3

Wait. I woke up. How can 98 occur after repeated subtractions from 16? Check that original problem again.

Answer 4

Nope, that's the original. That's why I'm wondering if it's even plausible.

Answer 5

Question the questioner.

Answer 6

A trick? A typo? Beyond my pay grade? I would like to know if I could get an e-mail.

Answer 7

Sure, I'll let you know. I'll leave it "no solution" for right now and ask my teacher tomorrow.

Answer 8

Thanks for your time!