Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Series

Series — practice question

(a)[3]

One geometric progression begins with first term $3a$ and has common ratio $r$. A second geometric progression begins with first term $a$ and has common ratio $-2r$. These two progressions have equal sums to infinity. Determine the value of $r$.

(b)[3]

The first two terms of an arithmetic progression are $15$ and $19$ respectively. The first two terms of a second arithmetic progression are $420$ and $415$ respectively. The two progressions have identical sums for the first $n$ terms. Determine the value of $n$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Set the sums to infinity equal: $\frac{3a}{1-r}=\frac{a}{1+2r}$

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI