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Let a1, a2, a3, ... be an arithmetic sequence. Let Sn denote the sum of the first n terms. If S_5 = 1/5 and S_10 = 1/10, then find S_15.

 Oct 7, 2024
 #1
avatar+1950 
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Let's set some variables and make some observations. 

Let's let d=a2a1

 

Now, let's note something important. Note that

S5=5a1+(d+2d+3d+4d)=5a1+10dS10=10a1+(d+2d++9d)=10a1+45dS15=15a1+(d+2d++14d)=15a1+105d

 

These observations are really important for us to solve the problem. 

Let's take two of these cases. We can write a system of equations, and we get

{5a1+10d=1510a1+45d=110

 

Now, we solve for a1 and d. 

Solving this system of equations, we get

d=3250a1=8125

 

Plugging this into S15, we get S15=15a1+105d=310

 

So -3/10 is our final answer. 

 

Thanks! :)

 Oct 7, 2024
edited by NotThatSmart  Oct 7, 2024

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