The nth term of a sequence is given. an = 9(3)n − 1

Question

The nth term of a sequence is given.

a_n = 9(3)^n − 1

(a) Find the first five terms of the sequence.

a1	=
a2	=
a3	=
a4	=
a5	=

(b) What is the common ratio r?

r = 

Answer 1

Hello Isaiah

a₁ means plug 1 in the formula a_n = 9(3)^n − 1 for n so a₁ = 9(3)^{1-1 =} 9

a₂ means plug 1 in the formula a_n = 9(3)^n − 1 for n so a₂ = 9(3)^{2-1 =} 9*3 = 27

please use the same logic to find other terms

common rate:a₂/a₁ = 27/9 =3

hope that helps

if you need more assistance please let me know