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When the same constant is added to the numbers a, b, and c, a three-term geometric sequence arises. If a=60, b=100, and c=140, what is the common ratio of the resulting sequence?

 Aug 17, 2024
 #2
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First, we can write a handy equation to solve for the constant and find the 3 terms. 

Let's let the constant added to every number be x. 

 

Since the three terms for a geometric series, we have the equation

100+x60+x=140+x100+x

 

Now, when we crossmultiply and then expand everything out, we get

(x+100)(100+x)=(x+60)(140+x)200x+x2+10000=140x+x2+8400+60x200x+x2+10000=200x+x2+8400

 

Now, we bring all terms to one side of the equation. We have

200x+x2+10000x2200x8400=0200x+1600200x=01600=0

 

However, this statement is obviously not true, meaning that x is invalid. 

This also means that there are NO solutions to this given problem. 

 

*Note, I may have made a mistake. Not sure. 

Thanks! :)

 Aug 17, 2024
edited by NotThatSmart  Aug 17, 2024

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