ECZ 2016 · O-Level Paper 2 · Question 5 — Sequences and Series

The first three terms of a geometric progression are x + 1, x - 3 and x - 1.

(a) Simplify x - 1x^2 - 1.[2]

Verified working — step 1

x2 - 1 = …

(b(i)) The first three terms of a geometric progression are x + 1, x - 3 and x - 1. Find the value of x.[3]

Verified working — step 1

For a GP the common ratio is the same: x - 3x + 1= x - 1x - 3.

(b(ii)) Find the first term.[1]

Verified working — step 1

First term a = x + 1 = 53+ 1 = …

(b(iii)) Find the sum to infinity.[3]

Verified working — step 1

r = x - 3x + 1= -4/38/3= …

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Original examination question © Examinations Council of Zambia. Worked solution and commentary © G12 Titan — not to be reproduced without permission.

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