ECZ 2018 · O-Level Paper 2 · Question 5 — Sequences and Series

The first three terms of a geometric progression are k + 4, k and 2k - 15 where k is a positive constant.

(a) Simplify b - aa^2 - b^2.[2]

Verified working — step 1

a2 - b2 = (a - b)(a + b) and b - a = …

(b(i)) The first three terms of a geometric progression are k + 4, k and 2k - 15, where k is a positive constant. Find k.[3]

Verified working — step 1

The common ratio is the same: kk + 4= 2k - 15k

(b(ii)) List the first three terms of the progression.[2]

Verified working — step 1

With k = 12: k + 4 = 16, k = 12 and 2k - 15 = …

(b(iii)) Calculate the sum to infinity.[2]

Verified working — step 1

r = 1216= …

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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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