What is the sum of the geometric sequence 8, –16, 32 … if there are 15 terms?

1 Answer
Nov 26, 2015

87378.66¯6

Explanation:

The sum of an n term geometric sequence with initial term a0 and ratio r (i.e. ai=ai1r)
is given by the equation:
XXXn1i=0ai=a0(1+r)n1r

In this case a0=8 and r=(2)

So the sum is
XXX=8(1+(2)15)1(2)

XXX=8(1+(32768))3

XXX=8(32767)3

XXX=2621363

XXX=(8737823)