Numbers and algebra

Geometric sequence

A sequence in which each non-zero term is obtained by multiplying the previous term by a constant ratio.

Common notationaₙ = a₁rⁿ⁻¹

In one sentence

What does Geometric sequence mean?

A sequence in which each non-zero term is obtained by multiplying the previous term by a constant ratio.

How it is written

aₙ = a₁rⁿ⁻¹

A compact example

2, 6, 18, 54 has common ratio r = 3.

Other names and search terms

geometric progression.

Where this fits

When should you learn Geometric sequence?

The first encounter is not the final level. Many ideas begin visually, become computational in high school and become formal in college.

  1. 1Pre-high schoolUsually introduced
  2. 2High schoolGreater depth
  3. 3CollegeGreater depth
  4. 4AdvancedGreater depth
Typical subjects
  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra
Know first
  • Basic arithmetic
What it unlocks
  • Equations
  • Functions
  • Precalculus

Clear answers

Questions about Geometric sequence

What does Geometric sequence mean in mathematics?

A sequence in which each non-zero term is obtained by multiplying the previous term by a constant ratio.

How is Geometric sequence written?

A common notation is aₙ = a₁rⁿ⁻¹.

What is an example of Geometric sequence?

2, 6, 18, 54 has common ratio r = 3.

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