Sequence & Series

Introduction:

A sequence is a set of terms which may be algebraic, real or complex

numbers, written according to definite rule and the series thus formed
is called a progression.

E.g.
0, 7, 26, …(rule is n3-1)
1, 4, 7, 10, …
2, 4, 6, 8, … etc.
Note: Minimum number of terms in a sequence should be 3.

Arithmetic Progression:
It is a sequence whose terms increase or decrease by a fixed number. Fixed
number is called the common difference. If ‘a’ is the first term and ‘d’ is the
common difference, then the standard appearance of an A. P. is
(
a , ( a + d ) , ( a + 2d ) , ..., a + n − 1 d )
nth term =  Tn = a + (n − 1) d

Note:

If d > 0 ⇒ increasing A. P.
If d < 0 ⇒ decreasing A. P.
If d = 0 ⇒ all terms remain same

Q1.  If 6th and 11th term of an A.P. are respectively 17 and 32. Find the 20th
term.
Sol: T6 = 17 ⇒ a+5d = 17 …(1)
T11 = 32 ⇒ a+10d = 32 …(2)
(2) – (1)
5d = 15 ⇒ d = 3
Putting in (1)
a + 5(3) = 17 ⇒ a = 2
now, T20 = a + 19d
=2 + 19(3) = 59
Q2. In an A. P. if tp = q and tq = p, then find the rth term.
Sol: tp = q ⇒ a + (p - 1)d = q …(1)
Sequence & Series

tq = p ⇒ a + (q - 1)d = p …(2)
(1) – (2)
q – p = (p – q)d
d = –1

1.
 from (1), a + (p - 1)(-1) = q ⇒ a = p + q - 1
Now
tr = a + (r – 1)d = (p + q - 1) + (r - 1)(-1)
= p + q -r
Q3. In an A. P. if a2 + a5 – a3 = 10 and a2+a9 = 17, then find the 1st term and
the common difference
Sol: a2 + a5 – a3 = 10
(a + d) + (a + 4d) - (a + 2d) = 10
a + 3d = 10 …(1)
a2 + a9 = 17
(a + d) + (a + 8d) = 17
2a + 9d = 17 …(2)
(2) – 2 × (1)
3d = -3 ⇒ d = -1, a = 10 - 3d = 13
Q4. If pth, qth & rth term of AP are respectively a, b and c, then prove that
a ( q − r ) + b ( r − p ) + c ( p − q) = 0

Sol: Tp ⇒ A + (p - 1) D = a …(1)
Tq ⇒ A + (q - 1) D = b …(2)
Tr ⇒ A + (r - 1) D = c …(3)
(1) - (2) ⇒ (p - q) D = a - b
(2) - (3) ⇒ (q - r) D = b - c
(3) - (1) ⇒ (r – p)D = c – a
a(q-r)+b(r-p)+c(p-q)
a (b − c ) b (c − a ) c (a − b)
= + +
D D D

1
= {ab-ac+bc-ab+ac-bc} = 0 H.P.
D

Q5.  If a, b, c, d are distinct integers in an A.P. such that d = a2 + b2 + c2,

then find the value of a + b + c + d.
Sol: Let b = a + α, c = a + 2α, d = a + 3α
now d=a2 + b2 + c2
a + 3α = a2 + (a + α)2 + (a + 2α )2
a + 3α = 3a2 + 6aα + 5α2
⇒ 5α2 + 3(2a – 1)α + a(3a – 1) = 0 …(1)
now α ∈ R ⇒ D ≥ 0
⇒ 9(2a - 1)2 - 4.5.a(3a - 1) ≥ 0
⇒ 36a2 - 36a + 9 - 60a2 + 20a ≥ 0
Sequence & Series

⇒ 24a2 + 16a – 9 ≤ 0
 −4 − 70 −4 + 70 
⇒ a∈ , 
 12 12 
∵ a ∈ I hence a = 0 or -1

2.
 3
but for a = 0, α = 0 or which is not permissible
5

4
hence a = - 1 ⇒ α = 1, (X)
5
a = -1, b = 0, c = 1, d = 2
⇒a+b+c+d=2
n
Sn = 2a + n − 1d
2 
  Sum of n terms of an A. P.:
n
Sn = ( a +  ) where  = a + n − 1d
2
Remember that :
n (n + 1 )
(i) Sum of first n natural numbers is
2
(ii) Sum of first n odd natural numbers is n2
(iii) Sum of first n even natural is n(n + 1)

HIGHLIGHTS ABOUT AN A.P.

(i) If each term of an A.P. is increased, decreased, multiplied or divided by
the same non zero number, then the resulting sequence is also an AP.
(ii) Three numbers in AP can be taken as a – d, a, a + d; four numbers in
AP can be taken as a - 3d, a - d, a + d, a + 3d; five numbers in
AP can be taken as a-2d, a-d, a, a + d, a + 2d & six terms in AP can be
taken as a - 5d, a - 3d, a - d, a + d, a + 3d, a + 5d etc.
(iii) The common difference can be zero, positive or negative.
(iv) The sum of the two terms in an AP equidistant from the beginning &
end is constant and equal to the sum of first & last terms.
(v) If the number of terms in an A.P. is even then take it as 2n and if odd
then take it as (2n + 1)
(vi) For any series Tn = Sn – Sn-1 , for n > 1.
(vii) If a, b, c are in A.P. ⇒ 2b = a + c

Q1. The first term of an AP is 5, the last is 45, and the sum 400, find the
number of terms and the common difference.
Sol: Given a = 5
 = a + (n - 1)d = 45 …(1)
n n
Also, Sn = [a +  ] ⇒ ( 50) = 400 ⇒ n = 16
2 2
Sequence & Series

number of terms = 16
from (1)
40 8
5 + (16 - 1)d = 45 ⇒ d =   =
15 3

3.
 Q2.  The sum of first 3 terms of an AP is 27 and the sum of their squares
is 293 then find Sn
Sol: a + (a + d) + (a + 2d) = 27
⇒ 3(a + d) = 27 ⇒ a + d = 9 …(1)
now, a2 + (a + d)2 + (a + 2d)2 = 293
(9-d)2 + 92 + (9+d)2 = 293
243 + 2d2 = 293 ⇒ 2d2=50
d2 = 25 ⇒ d = ± 5
from (1)
if d = 5 ⇒ a = 4
if d = -5 ⇒ a = 14
n n
Now, for a = 4, d = 5 ⇒ Sn = 8 + (n − 1) 5 = ( 3 + 5n)
2 2

n n
For a = 14, d = −5 ⇒ Sn = 28 + (n − 1) ( −5 )  = ( 33 − 5n)
2 2
Q3. In an AP of which ‘a’ is the 1st term, if the sum of the 1st p terms is equal
 aq (p + q) 
to zero, show that the sum of the next q terms is −  .
 p−1 
Sol: Given Sp = 0

p
2a + (p − 1) d = 0 ⇒ 2a + (p − 1) d = 0
2
−2a
d= …(1)
p−1
now sum of next q terms
=Tp+1+ Tp+2+…(q terms)

q
= 2 ( a + pd) + ( q − 1) d
2

q  −2a  
= 2a + ( 2p + q − 1)  
2  p − 1 
q  2ap − 2a − 4ap − 2aq + 2a 
=  
2 (p − 1 ) 

q  −2a (p + q)  p + q
=   = −aq  
2 p−1  p−1
Sequence & Series

4.
 359
Q4. Find the value of the sum ∑ k cosk° 
k =0

Sol: Sum
S = 0cos0° + 1cos1° + 2cos2° + 3cos3° + ... + 359cos359°
∵cos359° = cos1°
cos358° = cos2°


cos181° = cos179°
hence
S = 360 {cos1° + cos2° + … + cos179°} +  ( cos180° ) 180
n=179, α = 1, β = 1
 179° 
sin  
 2  cos 90° − 180
S = 360 × ( )
 1° 
sin  
2
S = - 180
1
Q5. In an AP if Tm =1/n and Tn = 1/m then show that Smn = (mn + 1)
2
1
Sol: Tm = a + (m − 1) d = …(1)
n
1
Tn = a + (n − 1) d = …(2)
m
(1) – (2)
m−n 1
(m − n ) d = ⇒d=
mn mn
from (1)
1 1 1 1 1
a + (m − 1 ) = ⇒a+ − =
mn n n mn n

1
    ⇒ a =
mn

mn
now Smn =
2
{2a + (mn − 1) d}

mn  2 mn − 1  1
      =  +  = (mn + 1)
2 mn mn  2
Sequence & Series

5.
 1 2
Q6. 
How many terms of the sequence, 20 + 19 + 18 +  ... must be taken
3 3
so that their sum is 300. Explain the reason of double answer.
Sol: Sequence is AP with
1 −2
a = 20 and d = 19 − 20 =
3 3
let number of terms = n
n
hence Sn = 300 = 2a + (n − 1) d
2
n 2
⇒ 40 − (n − 1)  = 300
2 3
 (n − 1 ) 
⇒ n  20 −  = 300
 3 
⇒ n (61 − n) = 900 ⇒ n2 − 61n + 900 = 0
⇒ (n - 36)(n - 25)=0 ⇒ n = 25, 36
This is decreasing AP hence T1 to T25 terms are positive. Hence
S25 = 300. After this terms are getting reduced so sum will be increasing
but when negative terms add up in the sequence, then sum will again
get reduced and we get S36 = 300 again.
Q7. 
The sum of n terms of two AP’s are in the ratio of 7n+1 : 4n + 27, find
the ratio of their 11th terms.
n
2a + (n − 1) d
Sn 7n + 1
Sol: Given = 2 =  
S'n n 4n + 27
2a' + (n − 1) d'
2
2a + (n − 1) d 7n + 1
⇒ =  
2a' + (n − 1) d' 4n + 27

(n − 1 )
a+ d
2 7n + 1
⇒ =   …(1)
( n − 1 ) 4n + 27
a' + d'
2
(n − 1 )
for T11 we have = 10 ⇒ n = 21
2
Put in (1) put n = 21
Sequence & Series

a + 10d T 7 ( 21) + 1 148 4

= 11' = = =  
a' + 10d′ T11 4 ( 21) + 27 111 3

6.
Q8. 
If S1 ,S2 ,S3 , … ,Sp are the sum of n terms of ‘p’ arithmetic series whose
first terms are 1,2,3,4,… and whose common differences are 1,3,5,7,…
prove that

np
S1 + S2 + S3 +…+Sp = (np + 1)
2
Sol: Clearly

n
S1 =
2
{2 × 1 + (n − 1) .1}
n
S2 = {2 × 2 + (n − 1) .3}
2
n
S3 = {2 × 3 + (n − 1) .5}
2

n
+Sp =
2
{2 × p + (n − 1) . (2p − 1)}
n
S1 + S2 + ...Sp =
2
{ }
2. ( 1 + 2 + 3 + ... + p ) + (n − 1) ( 1 + 3 + 5 + ... + ( 2p − 1) )

n  p (p + 1 ) 
= 2. + (n − 1) p2 
2 2 
np
= {np + 1} H.P.
2
Q9. In an AP Sp = q and Sq = p then show that Sp+q = - (p + q)
Sol: Sp = q
p
⇒   {2a + (p − 1) d} = q
2
d
⇒  ap + p (p − 1) = q …(1)
2
also Sq = p
q
⇒
2
{2a + (q − 1) d} = p
d
⇒ aq + q ( q − 1) = p …(2)
2
Sequence & Series

(1) – (2)
d
⇒ a(p - q) + {(p2 – q2)-(p-q)}   = - (p - q)
2
d
⇒ a+(p+q-1)   = - 1
2

7.
 ⇒ 2a+(p+q-1)d = - 2 …(3)
now
( p + q)
Sp+q =
2
{2a + (p + q − 1) d}
( p + q)
= ( −2) = − (p + q) H.P.
2
Q10. Let a1 , a2 , a3 , ..., a100 be an arithmetric progression with a1 = 1 and
p
Sp = ∑a  ,  1 ≤ p ≤ 100 . For any integer n with
i= 1
i 1 ≤ n ≤ 20 , let m = 5n. If

Sm
does not depend on n then a2 is.
Sn
5n
S5n {2a1 + (5n − 1) d}  (2a1 − d) + 5nd 
Sol: = 2 = 5 
Sn n  ( 2a1 − d) + nd 
2
{2a1 + (n − 1) d}

It is independent of n if
(i) d = 0 or (ii) 2a1 = d ⇒ d = 2
if d = 0 then a2 = a1 = 1
if d = 2 then a2 = a1+d = 3
Q11. 
The number of terms in an AP is even, the sum of the odd terms is 24,
sum of the even terms is 30, and the last term exceeds the first term
1
by 10 . Find the number of terms.
2
Sol: let AP is a1 , a2 , a3 , ..., a2n
sum of odd terms
a1 + a3 + a5 + ... + a2n−1 = 24 …(1)
sum of even terms
a2 + a 4 + a6 + ... + a2n = 30 …(2)
(2) - (1)
(a2 − a1 ) + (a4 − a3 ) + ... + (a2n − a2n−1 ) = 6
nd = 6 … (3)
now given
1 21
Sequence & Series

a2n − a1 = 10 =
2 2
21
(2n − 1) d =
2

8.
 21 21
2nd − d = ⇒ 2 (6 ) − d =
2 2
3
hence , d =
2
6 6
n= = = 4 (using 3)
d 3
2
So, number of terms = 2n = 8
Q12. Find the sum of all integers between 1 to 100 which are divisible by 2
or 3.
Sol: let the set
A = {2, 4, 6,…,98} divisible by 2
B = {3, 6, 9,…,99} divisible by 3
for set A
sum S1 = 2+4+6+…+98
=2(1+2+3+…+49)
 49 × 50 
= 2  = 2450
 2 
for set B
sum S2 = 3+6+9+…+99
  =3(1+2+3+…+33)
 33 × 34 
   = 3   = 1683
 2 
A ∩ B = {6, 12, 18, …, 96}
Sum S3 = 6 + 12 + 18 +…+ 96
=6(1 + 2 + 3 +…+ 16)
 16 × 17 
= 6  = 816
 2 
sum of all integers divisible by 2 or 3 (A∪B)
= S1 + S2 - S3
= 2450 + 1683 - 816 = 3317
Q13. 
Find the nature and nth term of the sequence whose sum upto n
terms is
5n2 + 2n + 4
Sol: Sn = 5n2 + 2n + 4
Sequence & Series

Tn = Sn − Sn−1 ;n ≥ 2 

{ }
= ( 5n2 + 2n + 4 ) − 5 (n − 1) + 2 (n − 1) + 4
2

9.
 (
= 5 n2 − (n − 1)
2
) + 2 ( n − (n − 1 ) )
= 5 ( 2n − 1) + 2 = 10n − 3;n ≥ 2
hence sequence is
11, 17, 27, 37, …, (where T1 = S1)
Q14. Evaluate:
S=1002 - 992 + 982 - 972 + 962 - 952+…+22 - 12
Sol: S = (100-99)(100+99) + (98-97)(98+97) +…+ (2-1)(2+1)
S = 100+99+98+97+…+2+1

101
= 100 × = 5050
2

Q15. Suppose a1 , a2 , ... are in A.P and Sk denotes the sum of the first k

Sn n2 a (2m + 1)
terms of this AP. If = 2 for all m, n ∈ N, then prove that m+ 1 =  
Sm m an + 1 (2n + 1)
Sn (n / 2) 2a1 + (n − 1) d n2
Sol: = =  
Sm (m / 2) 2a1 + (m − 1) d m2

2a1 + (n − 1) d n
⇒ =
2a1 + (m − 1) d m

n − 1
a1 +  d
⇒  2  = n …(1)
m − 1 m
a1 +  d
 2 
In (1) replace n→ 2n+1
m→ 2m+1
⇒ 1
a + nd
=
2n + 1
 
( )
a 1 + md 2m + 1 ( )
am+ 1 ( 2m + 1)
Hence, =  
an + 1 (2n + 1)
30 15
Q16. Let a1 , a2 , ..., a30 be an AP, S = ∑ai and T =
i= 1
∑a(
i= 1
2i− 1).
If a5 = 27 and
Sequence & Series

S − 2T = 75 , then a10 is equal to

(A) 57 (B) 47 (C) 42 (D) 52

Ans (D)

10.
 30
Sol: S = 2a1 + ( 30 − 1) d
2 
S = [2a1 + 29d] 15 …(1)
T = a1 + a3 + a5 + ... + a29

15
= 2a1 + ( 15 − 1) 2d
2 
2T = 15 [2a1 + 28d] …(2)
(1)-(2)
S - 2T = 15(d) = 75 ⇒ d = 5
Also a5 = 27
⇒  a1 + 4d = 27 ⇒ a1 + 4 ( 5 ) = 27
a1 = 7
a10 = a1 + 9d = 7 + 9 ( 5 ) = 52

Q17. If a,b,c are in AP then prove that b + c, c + a, a + b are also in AP.

Sol. ∵ a, b, c in AP
⇒ -a, -b, -c in AP
add (a + b + c) in all terms
⇒ (a + b + c) -a, (a + b + c)-b, (a + b + c)- c in AP
⇒ b + c, c + a, a + b in AP
2 2 2
Q18. If a, b, c are in AP then prove that (b + c )  – a2 , ( c + a ) − b2 , ( a + b ) − c2
are also in AP
Sol: ∵ a, b, c in AP
⇒ -2a, -2b , -2c in AP
Add (a + b + c)
(b + c)-a, (c + a)-b, (a + b)-c in AP
Multiply by a + b + c
2 2 2
(b + c ) − a2 , (c + a ) − b2 , (a + b) − c2   in AP
1 1 1
Q19. If a2 ,b2 , c2 are in AP then prove that , , are in AP.
b+c c+a a +b
Sol: ∵ a2 ,b2 , c2 in AP
Sequence & Series

add (ab + bc + ca) to each term

⇒ (a + b)(c + a), (a + b)(b + c), (b + c)(c + a) in AP
Divide by (a+b)(b+c)(c+a)
1 1 1
⇒  , ,    in AP
b+c c+a a +b

11.
 a b c
Q20. If a2 ,b2 , c2 are in AP then prove that , , are in AP
b+c c+a a +b
Sol: ∵ a2 ,b2 , c2 in AP
add (ab + bc + ca) to each term
⇒(a + b)(c + a), (a + b)(b + c), (b + c)(c + a) in AP
divide by (a + b)(b + c)(c + a)
1 1 1
⇒  , , in AP
b+c c+a a +b

multiply by (a + b + c)
a + (b + c ) b + ( c + a ) c + ( a + b )
⇒ , ,  in AP
b+c c+a a +b
a b c
⇒ + 1, + 1, + 1 in AP
b+c c+a a +b
subtract 1
a b c
⇒ , , in AP
b+c c+a a +b
ARITHMETIC MEAN:
Consider n positive quantities a1, a2, a3, …, an.

a1 + a2 + ... + an
A.M. =
n

Note: 
When three quantities are in AP. then the middle one is called the
Arithmetic Mean of the other two.

To insert ‘n’ AM’s between a and b.

Let A1,A2,A3,…,An are n Arithmetic means between a and b
b = a + (n + 2 – 1)d
b−a
⇒ d=
n+1
n
 A + An  n
∑A = n 1  = a + b
 2  2
i
i= 1
Sequence & Series

= n times Arithmetic mean of 1st and last term.

12.
Q1.  If 101 arithmetic means & are inserted between 1 and 99 then find
their sum.
Sol: sum of all arithmetic means
= 101 × (mean of 1 and 99)
 1 + 99 
= 101 ×  
 2 
= 101 × 50 = 5050
Q2. Insert 20 AM’s between 4 and 67.
Sol: 4, A1, A2, A3, …, A20, 67 in AP
67 − 4 63
common difference , d = = = 3 
20 + 1 21
A1 = 4 + d = 7
A2 = 4+2d =10

A20 = 4 + 20d = 64
Q3. If p arithmetic means are inserted between 5 and 41 so that the ratio
A3 2
= then find the value of p.
Ap − 1 5

Sol: 5, A1, A2, A3, …, Ap, 41

41 − 5 36
common difference d = =  
p+1 p+1
A3 2
=  ⇒ 5A 3 = 2Ap−1
Ap − 1 5

⇒ 5 ( 5 + 3d) = 2 ( 5 + (p − 1) d)
⇒ 25 + 15d = 10 + ( 2p − 2) d
⇒ ( 2p − 17 ) d = 15

36
⇒ ( 2p − 17 ) = 15
p+1
⇒ 12 ( 2p − 17 ) = 5 (p + 1)
⇒ 19p = 209 ⇒ p = 11 

Q4. A number sequence a1 , a2 , a3 , ..., an is such that

Sequence & Series

a1 = 0 ; a2 = a 1 + 1 ; a 3 = a2 + 1 ; ... an = an − 1 + 1
1
Prove that the arithmetic mean of a1 , a2 , ..., an is not less than −
2

13.
 Sol: a2 = a1 + 1

on squaring a22 = a21 + 2a1 + 1

similarly, a23 = a22 + 2a2 + 1

a24 = a23 + 2a3 + 1


an2+ 1 = an2 + 2an + 1
on adding all equations, we get
an2+ 1 = a21 + 2 ( a1 + a2 + ... + an ) + n
⇒ 2 ( a 1 + a 2 + … + an ) + n ≥ 0

a1 + a2 + ... + an −1
⇒ ≥    H.P.
n 2
General Illustration on A.P.
 7
Q5. If log 3 2,log 3 ( 2x − 5 ) & log 3  2x −  are in AP determine x.
 2
 7
Sol: 2log 3 ( 2x − 5 ) = log 3 2 + log 3  2x − 
 2
 7
⇒ log 3 ( 2x − 5 ) = log 3 2  2x − 
2

 2
 7
⇒ ( 2x − 5 ) = 2  2x − 
2

 2
let 2x = t
2
⇒ ( t − 5 ) = 2t − 7 
⇒ t2 − 12t + 32 = 0
⇒ ( t − 4) ( t − 8) = 0
⇒ 2x = 4 , 2x = 8

⇒ x = 2 (rejected as 2x – 5 < 0), x = 3

` ⇒ x =3
Sequence & Series

14.
 x−1 x−2 1
Q6. Solve the equation + + ... + = 3 
x x x
1
Sol:
x
{1 + 2 + 3 + ... + ( x − 1)} = 3
1  ( x − 1) x 
⇒  =3
x 2 
⇒ (x - 1) = 6 ⇒ x = 7
Q7.  The fourth power of common difference of an arithmetic progression
with integer entries is added to the product of any four consecutive
terms of it prove that the resulting sum is the square of an integer.
Sol: Let 4 consecutive terms in AP are a - 3d, a - d, a + d, a + 3d where
common difference = 2d ∈I
now required exp.
4
= ( a − 3d) ( a − d) ( a + d) ( a + 3d) + ( 2d)
= ( a2 − 9d2 ) ( a2 − d2 ) + 16d4
= a 4 − 10a2d2 + 25d4
= ( a2 − 5d2 ) =
2
{(a − 3d) (a + 3d) + (2d) } 2 2

( ) (
= I1I2 + I23 = Integer )
2

Q8. 
Find the condition that the roots of equation x3 − px2 + qx − r = 0 may

be in AP.
Sol: Let roots α - β, α, α + β
sum of roots = 3α = p ⇒ α = p/3
∵ α3 – pα2 + qα - r = 0
p3 p2 p
⇒ − p. + q. − r = 0
27 9 3
−2 3 1
⇒ p + pq − r = 0
27 3
⇒ 2p3 − 9pq + 27r = 0 required condition

Q9. If the first 3 terms of an increasing AP are the roots of the cubic
4x3 − 24x2 + 23x + 18 = 0 then find Tn .
Sequence & Series

Sol: Let roots are α - β, α, α + β (in AP) ( β > 0)

24
sum of roots = 3α  =  =6⇒α=2
4

15.
 −18
product of roots = α(α - β)(α + β) =
4
−9
2(4 - β2) =  
2
−9 25
⇒ 4 - β2 = ⇒ β2 =
4 4
5
β= ±
2
5 5
roots are 2 − ,  2,  2 +
2 2
−1 9
,  2,
2 2
−1 5
for AP a = ,  d =
2 2
−1 5 5n − 6
Tn = + (n − 1 ) =
2 2 2
Q10. If the sum of the roots of the equation ax2 + bx + c = 0 is equal to the
sum of the square of their reciprocals, then show that bc2 , ca2 , ab2 are
in AP.
Sol: Let roots α, β

1 1
now given that α + β = 2
+ 2
α β
α 2 + β2
⇒ α+β =  
( αβ )
2

⇒ ( α + β )( αβ ) = ( α + β ) − 2αβ
2 2

2 2
b c  b 2c
⇒− .  = −  −
a a  a a
bc2 b2 2c
⇒− 3 = 2 − ⇒ −bc2 = ab2 − 2a2c 
a a a
⇒ ab2 + bc2 = 2ca2
hence bc2 , ca2 , ab2 are in AP

Q11. Given a1 , a2 , a3 , ..., an are in AP. Prove that

Sequence & Series

1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 
+ + +…+ =  + + ... + 
a1an a2an−1 a3an−2  ana1 a1 + an  a1 a2 an 

16.
Sol: We know that a1 + an = a2 + an−1 = a3 + an−2 = ... = k (let)
now LHS is
1 k k k k 
⇒  + + + ... + 
k  a1an a2an−1 a3an−2 ana1 

1  1 1   1 1   1 1   1 1  
⇒  + + + + +  + ... +  + 
k  an a1   an−1 a2   an−2 a3   a1 an  

1 1 1 1  2 1 1 1 
⇒ 2 + +…+  =  + + ... +  = RHS
k  a 1 a2 an  a 1 + an  a 1 a 2 an 

Q12. Let AP (a; d) denote the set of all the terms of an infinite arithmetic
progression with first term a and common difference d > 0.
If AP ( 1 ; 3) ∩ AP ( 2; 5) ∩ AP ( 3; 7 ) = AP ( a; d) then a+d equals.

Sol: Common terms of two or more than two APs also form an AP whose
common difference is LCM of common differences of these APs
now
AP(1 ; 3) = {1,4,7,10,13,16,19,22,25,…}
AP(2 ; 5) = {2,7,12,17,22,27,32,37,42,…}
AP(3 ; 7) = {3,10,17,24,31,38,…}
first common terms in all these APs will be 52 hence a = 52
d = LCM {3, 5, 7} = 105
hence
a + d = 52 + 105 = 157
Q13. 
Let a1 , a2 , ..., an be a given AP whose common difference is an integer
and Sn = a1 + a2 + ... + an . If a1 = 1, an = 300 and 15 ≤ n ≤ 50 then the
ordered pair ( Sn− 4 , an− 4 ) is equal to
(A) (2480, 248)  (B) 
(2480,249)   (C) (2490,249)  (D) 
(2490,248)
Sol: (D)

an = a 1 + ( n − 1 ) d
300 = 1+(n-1) d
299
Hence, n − 1= ∈ [14, 49]
d
Sequence & Series

13 × 23
n − 1= ∈ [14, 49]
d
clearly d = 13 hence n = 24

17.
 an− 4 = a20 = a1 + 19d = 1 + 19 ( 13) = 248

and now
20
Sn− 4 = S20 = [a1 + a20 ] = 10 ( 1 + 248) = 2490
2

Q14. Prove that 2, 3, 5 cannot be the terms of an AP (not necessarily

adjacent)
Sol: Let these are pth , qth ,rth terms of an AP

a+ (p-1) d= 2 …(1)

a+ ( q-1) d= 3 …(2)

a+ (r-1) d= 5 …(3)

(2)-(1),  ( q − p ) d = 3 − 2 …(4)

(3)-(2),  (r − q) d = 5 − 3  …(5)

now (4) ÷ (5)
q−p 3− 2
=
r−q 5− 3
LHS is rational as p, q, r ∈ N but RHS is irrational
hence 2, 3, 5 can not be the terms of an AP.

GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION:
Definition:
In a sequence if each term (except the first non- zero term)bears the same
constant ratio with its immediately preceding term the sequence is called a
G.P. and the constant ratio is called the common ratio. Standard appearance
of a GP is a, ar, ar2, ar3,…,arn-1.

nth term = Tn = arn−1 (r ≠ 0)

1
Q1. In a G.P. if t3 = 2 and t6 = −  ,find t10
4
Sequence & Series

Sol: ∵ t3 = 2 ⇒ ar2 = 2 …(1)

1 1
also t6 = − ⇒ ar5 = − …(2)
4 4

18.
 (2) ÷ (1)

1 1
r3 = − ⇒r=−
8 2
2 2
a= 2 = =8
r 1
 
4
9
 1 1
t10 = ar9 = 8  −  = −
 2  64

Q2. 
If pth , qth  and  rth terms of a G.P. are x, y and z respectively then prove

that xq−r .yr −p .zp−q = 1

Sol: Given
Tp = x ⇒ ARP −1 = x …(1)
Tq = y ⇒ ARq−1 = y …(2)
Tr = z ⇒ ARr −1 = z …(3)

now xq−r = ( ARp−1 )

q−r
= Aq−rR(p−1)(q−r )
      = Aq−rRpq−pr −q+r …(4)
yr −p = ( AR )
q− 1 r −p
= Ar −pR(q−1)(r −p)
      = Ar −pRqr −pq−r +p …(5)
zp−q = ( AR )
r − 1 p −q
= Ap−qR(r −1)(p−q)
      = Ap−qRpr −qr −p+q …(6)
(4) × (5) × (6)
      xq−r .yr −p .zp−q =A°R°=1

Sum of n terms of a G. P.

S = a + ar + ar 2 + ... + ar n−1

S=
(
a 1 − rn )
where r ≠ 1, If r = 1 then S = na
1−r

If r < 1 and n → ∞ then

Sequence & Series

a
S∞ =
1−r

19.
 IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER
(i) If each term of a GP be multiplied or divided by the same non-zero
quantity, the resulting sequence is also a GP.
a
(ii) Any 3 consecutive terms of a GP can be taken as , a, ar . Any 4
r
a a
consecutive terms of a GP can be taken as 3 , , ar, ar3 and so on.
r r
(iii) If a, b, c are in GP ⇒ b2 = ac
Q1. The sum of first 3 consecutive terms of a GP is 19 and their product is
216. find Sn. Also compute S∞ if it exists.

Sol. Let terms are α / β, α, αβ

α
Given product =   .α.αβ = 216
β
⇒ α3 = 63 ⇒ α = 6
α
also sum ⇒   + α + αβ = 19
β
6
put α = 6 then + 6 + 6β = 19
β

⇒ 6 + 6β + 6β2 = 19β
⇒ 6β2 - 13β + 6 = 0
⇒ 6β2 - 9β - 4β + 6=0
⇒ 3β(2β-3) - 2(2β-3) = 0
⇒ (3β-2)(2β-3)=0
2 3
⇒  β = or
3 2
hence numbers
2 6 2
for β = ⇒ , 6, 6.   ⇒ 9, 6, 4 
3 2 3
3
3 6 3
for β = ⇒ , 6, 6.   ⇒ 4, 6, 9
2 3 2
2
Case–I: GP 9, 6, 4, …
A = 9, r = 2/3
Sequence & Series

  2 n 
1 −   
 3    2 n 
Sn = 9     = 27 1 −   
 1− 2  3
   
 3 
 
20.
 9
S∞ = = 27
2
1−
3
Case–II: GP 4, 6, 9, …
3
a = 4,r =
2
  3 n 
   − 1
 2    3 n 
Sn = 4   = 8   − 1
 3−1   2  
 2 
 
3
S∞ will not exist as r = > 1
2
Q2. In a GP, find a if a1 + a2 + a3 = 13 and a21 + a22 + a23 = 91
n

Sol: let a2 = a1r, a3 = a1r2

now a1 + a2 + a3 =   13
⇒  a1 + a1r + a1r2 = 13
⇒  a1 ( 1 + r + r2 ) = 13 …(1)
Also, a21 + a22 + a23 = 91
⇒ a21 + a21 r2 + a21 r4 = 91
( 2 4
)
⇒  a 1 1 + r + r = 91
2
…(2)
(2) ÷ (1)2
a21 ( 1 + r + r2 ) ( 1 − r + r2 ) 13 × 7
⇒  =
a21 ( 1 + r + r2 ) 132
2

1 − r + r2 7
⇒  =
1+r +r 2
13
⇒  13 − 13r + 13r2 = 7 + 7r + 7r2
⇒  6r2 − 20r + 6 = 0
⇒  3r2 − 10r + 3 = 0

1
Sequence & Series

⇒(3r – 1) (r – 3) = 0 ⇒  r = ,r = 3
3
from (1)
1  1 1
if r = ⇒ a1  1 + +  = 13 ⇒ a1 = 9
3  3 9

21.
 if r = 3 ⇒ a1 ( 1 + 3 + 9) = 13 ⇒ a1 = 1

9 9
Case–I: GP 9, , , ...
3 32
n− 1
1
an = 9  
3
Case–II: GP  1, 3, 32 , ...
n− 1
an = 1 ( 3 )

Q3. If sinx, sin22x and cosx · sin4x form an increasing geometric sequence, find the
numerical value of cos2x. Also find the common ratio of geometric sequence.
Sol: As  sinx, sin2 2x, cosx sin4x are in GP
⇒ ( sin2 2x ) = ( sinx ) . ( cosx sin4x )
2

⇒ ( sin2 2x ) = ( sinx cosx ) ( 2sin2x cos2x )

2

⇒ ( sin2 2x ) = ( sin2 2x ) ( cos2x )

2

⇒ ( sin2 2x ){sin2 2x − cos2x} = 0

⇒ sin2x = 0 (not possible), 1 − cos2 2x − cos2x = 0 ⇒ cos22x + cos2x = 1 … (1)

cosx  sin4x
2
(commonratio ) =
sinx
cosx   2sin2x  cos2x
r2 =
sinx
cosx  2 ( 2sinx cosx ) cos2x
=
sinx
= 4cos2 x cos2x = 2 ( 1 + cos2x ) cos2x

=  2 ( cos2 2x + cos2x ) = 2(1) [Using (1)]

⇒ r = 2 (as GP is increasing)

Q4.  The sum of an infinite number of terms of a GP is 15 and the sum of their
squares is 45. Find the series.
Sequence & Series

Sol: Let GP be a, ar, ar2 , ...

a
sum of infinite terms = = 15
1−r
⇒ a = 15 ( 1 − r ) …(1)

22.
 squared sequence: a2 , a2r2 , a2r4 , ...

a2
sum =   = 45 ⇒ a2 = 45 ( 1 + r ) ( 1 − r ) …(2)
1 − r2
(1)2÷(2)
2
225 ( 1 − r )
1=
45 ( 1 + r ) ( 1 − r )
( 1 + r ) = 5 ( 1 − r ) ⇒ 6r = 4
2
r=
3
 2
from (1) ⇒  a = 15  1 −  = 5
 3
Hence, series is
2
2 2
5 + 5. + 5.   , ...
3 3
10 20
⇒  5 + + + ...
3 9
Q5. If α and β are the roots of equation 375x2 − 25x − 2 = 0 , then
n n

lim ∑αr + lim ∑βr is equal to

n→∞ n→∞
r=1 r=1

21 29 1 7
(A)    (B)    (C)    (D)
346 358 12 116
Sol. C
25 1 −2
α+β = = , αβ =
375 15 375
∞ ∞

∑α + ∑β
r r
Now given exp. is
r=1 r=1

⇒ (α + α2 + α3+…) + (β + β2 + β3+…)
α β α ( 1 − β) + β ( 1 − α )
⇒ + ⇒  
1− α 1−β ( 1 − α )( 1 − β )
( α + β ) − 2αβ ⇒  25 + 2 ( 2)  × 1
⇒  
1 − ( α + β ) + αβ
Sequence & Series

 375 375   25 2 
1 −    −   
 375 375 
29 375 29 1
⇒ × = =
375 348 348 12

23.
 Q6. 
Use infinite series to compute the rational number corresponding to
0.423
Sol: Let x = 0.4232323...
x= 0.4 +0.023+0.00023+…∞
4 23 23 23
x= + 3 + 5 + 7 + ...∞
10 10 10 10
23
2 103
x= +
5 1 −   1
102
2 23 102 2 23 419
x= + 3. = + =
5 10 99 5 990 990

Q7. Find the sum

S=9 + 99 + 999 + …+ 999…9(n times)
Sol: S = ( 10 − 1) + ( 102 − 1) + ( 103 − 1) + ... + ( 10n − 1)
S = ( 10 + 102 + 103 + ... + 10n ) − n
10 ( 10n − 1)
S= –n
9
1
S=
9
( 10n+1 − 9n − 10)

Q8. S = 0.9 + 0.99 + 0.999 + ... upto n times

9 99 999
Sol: S = + 2 + + ...
10 10 103

S=
( 10 − 1)
+
( 10
2
− 1)
+
( 10
3
− 1)
+ ... +
( 10
n
− 1)
10 10 2
10 3
10 n

 1   1   1   1 
S =  1 −  +  1 − 2  +  1 − 3  + ... +  1 − n 
 10   10   10   10 
 1 1 1 1 
S = n −   + 2 + 3 + ... + n 
 10 10 10 10 
1  1 
 1 −   n  1 1 
10  10 
S =n− = n − 1 − n 
 1  9  10 
 1 −   
Sequence & Series

 10 

24.
Q9. Solve the following equations for x and y
log 2 x + log 4 x + log 16 x +  ...   = y
5 + 9 + 13 + ... + ( 4y + 1)
= 4log 4 x 
1 + 3 + 5 + ... + ( 2y − 1)
Sol: Given equation
1 1
log 2 x + log 2 x + log 2 x + ... = y
2 4
 1 1 
⇒ log 2 x. 1 + + + ... = y
 2 4 
 
 1 
⇒ log 2 x.  =y
1 − 1 
 2
y
⇒ log 2 x = …(1)
2
Second equation
y
2
{5 + ( 4y + 1)} 1
= 4. log 2 x 
y 2
2
⇒ y ( 3 + 2y ) = 2log 2 x . y 2

y 2
⇒ 2y 2 + 3y = 2. .y  ⇒ y 3 − 2y 2 − 3y = 0
2
⇒ y ( y 2 − 2y − 3 ) = 0 ⇒ y ( y + 1) ( y − 3 ) = 0
⇒ y = 0, -1, 3
As y ∈ N, So, y = 3
3
3
from (1) log 2 x = ⇒ x = 22 = 2 2
2
Q10. For any three positive real numbers a, b and c,
9 ( 25a2 + b2 ) + 25 ( c2 − 3ac ) = 15b ( 3a + c ) then
(A) b, c and a are in GP (B) b, c and a are in AP
(C) a, b and c are in AP (D) a, b and c are in GP
Sol: B
Sequence & Series

Given equation is
2 2 2
( 15a ) + ( 3b) + (5c ) − ( 15a ) ( 3b) − ( 3b) (5c ) − ( 15a ) (5c ) = 0
⇒ 15a = 3b = 5c = k (let )

25.
 k k k
a= ,b = , c =
15 3 5
k1  k 6 2k
a + b =  + 1 = . = = 2c
35  3 5 5
⇒ b, c, a in AP
Q11. 
If a, b and c be three distinct real numbers in GP and a + b + c = xb
then x cannot be
(A) 4 (B) –3 (C) -2 (D) 2
Sol: D
Let b = ar, c = ar2 (r ≠ ±1)
Now, a + b + c = xb
⇒ a+ar+ar2=x.ar
⇒ 1+r+r2=xr …(1)
⇒ r2+(1 - x)r + 1=0
Now D ≥ 0
2
⇒ ( 1 − x ) − 4 ( 1) ≥ 0
⇒ ( 1 − x + 2) ( 1 − x − 2) ≥ 0
⇒ ( x − 3 ) ( x + 1) ≥ 0
⇒ x ∈ ( −∞, −1] ∪ [3, ∞ )
from (1) if r = 1 ⇒ x = 3
if r = - 1 ⇒ x = - 1
clearly, x∈(-∞,-1)∪(3,∞)
Q12. Find four successive terms of a GP of which the 2nd term is smaller
than the first by 35 and the 3rd term is larger than the 4th by 560.
Sol: Let terms are a, ar, ar2, ar3
given a − ar = 35
a ( 1 − r ) = 35 …(1)
and ar2 − ar3 = 560
ar2 ( 1 − r ) = 560 …(2)
(2)÷(1)
560
r2 = = 16 ⇒ r = ±4
35
Sequence & Series

35
If r = 4 then a = −
3
−35 −140 −560 −2240
Terms are , , ,
3 3 3 3

26.
 35
If r = – 4 then a = =7
5
Terms are 7, –28, 112, –448
Q13. 
If pth , qth ,rth , sth terms of an AP are in GP show that p-q, q-r, r-s are in
GP.
Sol: Let
a + (p − 1) d = A …(1)
a + ( q − 1) d = AR …(2)
a + (r − 1) d = AR2 …(3)
a + ( s − 1) d = AR3 …(4)
(1) – (2) ⇒ (p – q)d = A(1-R)
(2) – (3) ⇒ (q – r)d = AR(1-R)
(3) – (4) ⇒ (r – s)d = AR2(1-R)
Clearly, p – q, q – r, r – s are in GP
Q14. If loga, logb, logc are in AP then prove that a, b, c are in GP.
Sol: Given loga,logb,logc in AP
⇒ 2logb = loga + logc
⇒  logb2 = logac
⇒ b2 = ac
⇒ a, b, c are in GP
Q15. 
If S1 , S2 , S3 ,   ...,   Sn , … are the sums of infinite geometric series whose
first terms are 1,2,3, …, n, … and whose common ratios are
1 1 1 1 2n− 1
  , , , ..., , ... respectively then find the value of ∑Sr2
2 3 4 n+1 r =1
1
Sol: for S1 ; a = 1,r =
2
1
⇒ S1 = =2
1
1−
2
1 2
for S2 ; a = 2,r = ⇒ S2 = =3
3 1
1−
3
Sequence & Series

Similarly, S3 = 4, S4 = 5, ...Sr = (r + 1)
2n− 1 2n− 1 2n

∑Sr2 = ∑ (r + 1 ) ∑r
2
= 2
−1
r =1 r =1 r =1

27.
 (2n) (2n + 1) ( 4n + 1)
= −1
6
n
= (2n + 1) ( 4n + 1) − 1
3
GEOMETRIC MEAN:
Consider n positive quantities a1, a2, a3,…,an.
G.M. = (a1 ∙ a2 ∙ …. ∙ an)1/n
Note: If a, b, c are three positive numbers in GP then b is called geometric
mean between a and c and b2 = ac.

To insert ‘n’ GM’s between a and b

Let a and b are two positive numbers and G1 , G2 , ..., Gn are ‘n’ GM’s then
1
 b  n+1
r= 
a
n

∏G = ( G)
n
here
i
i=1

where G is G.M. between a and b

Hence product of n GM’s inserted between a and b is equal to the nth
power of single GM between them. It may be noted that between two
positive numbers

AM ≥ GM

Q1. Insert 4 GM’s between 5 and 160.

Sol: Let 5, G1 , G2 , G3 , G4 , 160 → in GP
1 1
 b n+ 1  160  5 1
r=  =  = ( 32 ) 5 = 2
a  5 
G1 = 5r = 10, G3 = 5r3 = 40
G2 = 5r2 = 20, G4 = 5r4 = 80

Q2.  If AM between a and b is 15 and GM between a and b is 9. Find the

number.
a +b
Sol: = 15 ⇒ a + b = 30 …(1)
Sequence & Series

2
ab = 9 ⇒ ab = 81 …(2)
81
by (1) and (2)  a + = 30
a
a2 − 30a + 81 = 0 ⇒ ( a − 27 ) ( a − 3 ) = 0
28.
 a = 3, 27
If a = 3 then b = 27
a = 27 then b = 3
Q3. If sum of two numbers a and b (a > b) is n(n > 2) times their GM then
show that a : b = n + n2 − 4 : n − n2 − 4
Sol: Given AM = n GM
a+b n
a + b = n ab ⇒ =
2 ab 2
by using componendo and dividendo
a + b + 2 ab n + 2
=
a + b − 2 ab n − 2
2
 a + b n+2
⇒    =
 a − b n−2

a+ b n+2
⇒  =
a− b n−2
Again, by using C and D
a n + 2 +   n − 2
⇒ =
b n + 2  −   n − 2
on Squaring both sides
a 2n + 2 n2 − 4 n + n2 − 4
= = H.P.
b 2n − 2 n2 − 4 n − n2 − 4

Q4. 
If a, b, c are in GP and x, y are respectively the AM’s between a, b and
b, c respectively, then prove that
1 1 2 a c
+ = and + = 2
x y b x y
Sol: Let b = ar, c = ar2
a +b a
and x = = (1 + r)
2 2
b + c ar
y= = (1 + r)
2 2
1 1 2 2 2 2 2
now,    + = + = (r + 1 ) = =
x y a ( 1 + r ) ar ( 1 + r ) ar ( 1 + r ) ar b
Sequence & Series

a c 2a 2ar2
now, + = +
x y a ( 1 + r ) ar ( 1 + r )
2 2r
= + =2
1+r 1+r

29.
 Q5. 
If a is the AM of b and c and the two geometric means between b and
c are G1 andG2 then prove that G31 + G23 = 2abc
b+c
Sol: Clearly, a = ⇒ b + c = 2a …(1)
2
now G1 andG2 are GM’s between b and c
⇒  b, G1 , G2 , C → in GP
⇒  G1 = bG2 andG2 = G1c and G1G2 = bc
2 2

G31 = bG1G2 and G32 = G1G2c

( )
G31 = b bc and G23 = bc c ( )
G + G = b c + bc = bc (b + c ) = 2abc
3
1
3
2
2 2

Q6.  If a, b, c, d are four positive real numbers such that abcd = 1 Prove that
(1 + a) (1 + b) (1 + c) (1 + d) ≥ 16
Sol: ∵ AM ≥ GM
1+a
⇒ ≥ a ⇒ 1 + a ≥ 2 a …(1)
2
similarly
1+b ≥ 2 b
1+c ≥2 c
1+d≥2 d
on multiplying we get
(1 + a) (1 + b)(1 + c)(1 + d) ≥ 16   abcd
⇒ (1 + a) (1 + b) (1 + c)(1 + d) ≥ 16 H.P
Q7. If x > 0, y > 0, z > 0 then prove that (x + y) (y + z)(z + x) ≥ 8xyz
x+y
Sol: AM ≥ GM ⇒ ≥ xy
2
⇒  x + y ≥ 2 xy
Similarly, y + z ≥ 2 yz
z + x ≥ 2 zx
on multiplying we get
⇒ (x + y) (y + z)(z + x) ≥ 8xyz
Q8. If the sum of first 20 terms of the series log 1 x + log 1 x + log 1  x +  ...
Sequence & Series

72 73 74

is 460, then x is equal to

1 46
(A) 7 2 (B) 72 (C) e2 (D) 7 21
Ans.  B

30.
Sol: sum = 2log 7 x + 3log 7 x + 4log 7 x + ...
⇒ log 7 x {2 + 3 + 4 + ... + 21} = 460
 21 × 22 
⇒ (log 7 x)  − 1  = 460
 2 
⇒ (log 7 x) ( 230) = 460 ⇒ log 7 x = 2 ⇒ x = 72

Q9. 
Prove that a ∆ ABC is equilateral if and only if
tanA + tanB + tanC = 3 3
Sol: let ∆ ABC is equilateral triangle then A = B = C = 60°
⇒ tanA + tanB + tanC = 3 tan60° = 3 3
Conversely,
Let tanA + tanB + tanC = 3 3
⇒ tanA ∙ tanB ∙ tanC = 3 3
⇒ none of tanA, tanB, tanC can be negative so applying AM ≥ GM
tanA + tanB + tanC 1
≥ {tanA.tanB.tanC}3  
3
∵ tanA + tanB + tanC = tanA . tanB . tanC = α(let)
1
α α3
⇒ ≥ α3 ⇒ ≥ α ⇒ α2 ≥ 27
3 27
α ≥ 3 3
So, the equality holds if and only if
tanA = tanB = tanC
⇒ A= B = C ⇒ ∆ABC is equilateral
310.24
Q10. If a + b + c = 3 and a, b, c are positive then prove that a2b3c2 ≤  
77
Sol: Using AM ≥ GM
a a b b b c c 1
 +   +   +   +    +    +  
2   2 3 3 3 2 2  a2b3c2  7
⇒ ≥ 4 3 
7  23 
7
a +b + c abc 3
2 3 2 7
⇒   ≥ 4 3 ⇒ 7 ×2 ×3 ≥ a b c  
4 3 2 3 2

 7  23 7
31024
⇒ a2b3c2 ≤  
77
Q11. If n is positive integer, show that 22n+ 1 > 1 + ( 2n + 1) 2n
Sequence & Series

Sol: Using AM ≥ GM
1 + 2 + 22 + 23 + ... + 22n 1
> ( 1.2.22...22n ) 2n+ 1
(2n + 1)

31.
 (Here numbers are unequal hence equality will not hold)
1 ( 22n+ 1  −  1) 1
> ( 21+2+ 3+...+2n ) 2n+ 1  
(2n + 1)
1
 2n(2n+ 1)  2n+ 1
⇒ 22n+ 1 − 1 > ( 2n + 1)  2 2 
 
 
⇒ 22n+ 1 > 1 + ( 2n + 1) ( 2n ) H. P.

Q12. In the equation x4 + px3 + qx2 + rx + 5 = 0 has four positive real roots
then find the minimum value of pr.
Sol: Let roots are a, b, c and d
then a + b + c + d = – p
ab + ac + ad + bc + bd + cd = q
abc + abd + acd + bcd = - r
abcd = 5
∵ AM ≥ GM
a +b+c+d 1
∴ ≥ ( abcd) 4  
4
⇒ a + b + c + d ≥ 4(5)1/4
⇒ – p ≥ 4(5)1/4 …(1)
abc + abd + acd + bcd 1
also ≥ ( a3b3c3d3 ) 4  
4
⇒ abc + abd + acd + bcd ≥ 4(5)3/4
⇒ – r ≥ 4(5)3/4 …(2)
by (1) & (2)
((-p) (-r))min = 4(51/4).4(53/4) = 16(5)
prmin=80
Q13. If a, b, c are positive real numbers, then prove that
7
( 1 + a ) ( 1 + b ) ( 1 + c )  > 7 a b c  
7 4 4 4

Sol: Using AM ≥ GM
a + b + c + ab + bc + ca + abc 1
≥ ( a 4b4c4 ) 7
7
1 + a + b + c + ab + bc + ca + abc 1
> ( a 4b4c4 ) 7
7
7
⇒ ( 1 + a ) ( 1 + b ) ( 1 + c )  > 77 a 4b4c4 H.P.
Sequence & Series

32.
ARITHMETIC GEOMETRIC PROGRESSION(AGP)
Standard appearance of an AGP is
S = a + ( a + d ) r + ( a + 2d ) r 2 + ( a + 3d ) r 3 + ...

Q1. If x < 1 then compute the sum:

1 + 2x + 3x2 + 4x3 + ...∞
Sol: Let
     S = 1 + 2x + 3x2 + 4x3 + ...
x S =       x + 2x2 + 3x3 + …
− − − − −
( 1 − x ) S = 1 + x + x2 + x3 + ...
1 1 −2
(1 − x) S = ⇒S= = (1 − x)
1−x (1 − x)
2

Q2. If x < 1 then compute the sum:

1 + 3x + 6x2 + 10x3 + ...∞
Sol: Let
       S = 1 +3x + 6x2 + 10x3 + ...
x S = x + 3x2 + 6x3 + ...

− − − − −
( 1 − x ) S = 1 + 2x + 3x2 + 4x3 + ...
−2
( 1 − x ) S = ( 1 − x ) (from previous question)
S = (1-x)-3
4 7 10
Q3. Find the sum to n terms and also S∞ of series  1 + + + + ...
5 52 53
Sol: Let
4 7 10 3n − 2
Sn = 1 + +   2 + 3 + … + n− 1
5 5 5 5
Sn  1 4 7 3n − 2
=  + 2 + 3 +      ...     +
5 5 5 5 5n
– – – – – –

Sn 3 3 3 ( 3n − 2)
4 = 1 + + 2 + 3 + ... −
5 5 5 5 5n
Sequence & Series

Sn 3 1 1  ( 3n − 2)
4 = 1 +  1 + + 2 + ... (n − 1) terms  −
5 5 5 5  5n

33.
   1 n−1 
1 − 
S 3   5   ( 3n − 2)
4 n = 1+    −
5 5 1− 1  5n
 5 
S 3 1   3n − 2 
4 n = 1 + 1 − n−1  −  
5 4  5   5n 

5 15  1  1  3n − 2 
Sn = +  1 − n− 1  −  n− 1 
4 16  5  4 5 
1 1 3n − 2
when n → ∞ then n−1 = 0 and also =0
5 4 5n−1
5 15 35
hence S∞ = + =
4 16 16
3 5 7 9
Q4. Find S∞ for + + + + ...
5 15 45 135
Sol: Let
3 5 7 9 2n + 1
Sn = + + + +…+
5 15 45 135 5 ( 3)
n–1

Sn 3 5 7 2n + 1
=  + + + ............... +
3 15 45 135 5 ( 3)
n

Subtracting:
2Sn 3 2 2 2 2n + 1
= + + + + ............. −
3 5 15 45 135 ()
n
5 3

2Sn 3 2  1 1  2n + 1
= +  ( )
1 + + + ... n − 1 terms −
3 5 15  3 9  5 3n ()
 1 
1 −   n− 1 
2Sn 3 2  3  − 2n + 1
= +  
3 5 15 
1−
1  5 3n ()
 3 
2Sn 3 1 1  2n + 1
= +  1 − n− 1  −
3 5 5 3  5 3n ()
1 1 2n + 1
Sequence & Series

when n→∞ then = 0 and also =0

3n− 1
5 3n

9 3 6
hence S∞ = + =
10 10 5

34.
 3 33 333 3333
Q5. Find the sum to n terms and also find S∞ for + + + + ...
19 192 193 194
Sol: Let
 1 11 
Sn = 3  + 2 + ...n terms 
 19 19 

3 9 99 999 
Sn =  + 2 + + ...n terms 
9  19 19 193


1  10 − 1 102 − 1 103 − 1 10n − 1 

Sn =  + + + ... + 
3  19 192 193 19n 

1   10  10  1 
2 3 n
 10   10    1 1 1
Sn =   +   +   + ... +    −  + 2 + 3 + ... + n 
3   19  19   19   19    19 19 19 19 

  n
 10   1 
  1 −      
1 −   n
1  10   19   1  19 
Sn = −   
3  19  1 − 10  19  1 −   1 
  19    19 
  

1  10  1  
n
 10   1 
Sn =   1 −    −  1 − n  
3  9   19   18  19  

n
 10  1
when n→∞ then   = 0 & n = 0
 19  19

1  10 1  1 19 19
hence S∞ =  − = . =
3  9 18  3 18 54

MISCELLANEOUS SEQUENCES
Type-1:
Sequence dealing with ∑ n , ∑ n2 , ∑ n3

n ( n + 1)
∑n =
(1)
2
n ( n + 1) ( 2n + 1)
∑ n2 =
(2)
6
Sequence & Series

Proof:
consider the identity
3
k3 − (k − 1) = 3k2 − 3k + 1

35.
 for k = 1 ⇒ 13 - 03 = 3(12) - 3(1) + 1
k = 2 ⇒ 23 - 13 = 3(22) - 3(2) + 1
k = 3 ⇒ 33 - 23 = 3(32) - 3(3) + 1
:
:
k = n ⇒ n3 - (n - 1)3 = 3(n2) - 3(n) + 1
n3 = 3 ( ∑ n2 ) − 3 ( ∑ n) + n
n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1)
⇒ ∑ n2 =
6
2
 n ( n + 1)  2
(3) ∑ n3 =   = ( ∑ n)  
 2 
Proof:
consider the identity
4
k 4 − (k − 1) = 4k3 − 6k2 + 4k − 1

for k = 1 ⇒ 14 – 04 = 4(13) – 6(12) + 4(1) – 1

  k = 2 ⇒ 24 – 14 = 4(23) – 6(22) + 4(2) – 1
 k = 3 ⇒ 34 – 24 = 4(33) – 6(32) + 4 (3) – 1

K = n ⇒ n4 – (n-1)4 = 4(n3) – 6(n2) + 4(n) – 1
n4 = 4 ( ∑ n3 ) − 6 ( ∑ n2 ) + 4 ( ∑ n) − n
2
n2 (n + 1)
⇒ ∑n = 3

4
Note:
n n n
(i) ∑ ( ar + br ) = ∑a + ∑br r
r =1 r =1 r =1

n n
(ii) ∑k ar = k ∑ar (K ∈ constant)
r =1 r =1

n n
(iii) ∑k = k∑ = k n
k =1 r =1

1
Q1. Evaluate:    ∑ n2 + ∑ n
2
Sol: Given equation is
1  n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) n (n + 1) 
=  + 
Sequence & Series

2 6 2 
1 n (n + 1)  2n + 1 
=  3 + 1
2 2
1 2 (n + 2 ) 1
= n (n + 1 ) = n (n + 1 ) (n + 2 )
4 3 6
36.
Q2. 
Find the value(s) of the positive integer n for which the quadratic
n
equation, ∑ ( x + k − 1) ( x + k ) = 10n has solutions α and α+1 for some α.
k =1

Sol: Given equation is

n
∑[x
k =1
2
+ ( 2k − 1) x + k (k − 1)] = 10n

n n n
⇒ x2 ∑1 + x∑ ( 2k − 1) + ∑ (k2 − k ) = 10n
k =1 k =1 k =1

n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) n (n + 1 )
⇒ nx2 + n2 x + − = 10n
6 2
n (n + 1)  2n + 1 
⇒ nx2 + n2 x +  − 1  = 10n
2  3 
n (n + 1 ) (n − 1 )
⇒ nx2 + n2 x + = 10n
3
⇒  3x2 + 3nx + n2 − 1 = 30
⇒ 3x2 + 3nx + (n2 – 31) = 0 (α + 1, α are its roots)
∴ difference of roots =1
{( α + 1) − α}
2
=1

{( α + 1) + α} − 4 ( α + 1)( α ) = 1
2

2
 3n   n2 − 31 
⇒ −  − 4 =1
 3   3 
4 2 124
⇒  n2 − n + −1=0
3 3
n2 121
⇒ = ⇒ n = 11
3 3

Q3. Compute the sum

(31)2 + (32)2 + (33)2 +…+ (50)2
Sol: Required sum is
( 12 + 22 + 32 + … + 502 ) − ( 12 + 22 + … + 302 )
50.51.101 30.31.61
⇒ −
6 6
Sequence & Series

= 33470

37.
 Q4. Compute the sum of the series whose nth term is given by
Tn = n (n + 1) ( 3n − 1)
Sol: Sum
n n
Sn = ∑T = ∑r (r + 1) ( 3r − 1)
r =1
r
r =1

n
= ∑ ( 3r
r =1
3
+ 2r2 − r )  

n n n
= 3∑r3 + 2∑r2 − ∑r
r =1 r =1 r =1

2
n2 (n + 1) 2n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) n (n + 1 )
=3 + −  
4 6 2
3 2 2 n n (n + 1 )
n (n + 1) + (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) −
4 3 2

Q5. 32 + 72 + 112 + ... (sum to n terms)

2
Sol: Tr = ( 4r − 1)

Tr = 16r2 − 8r + 1
n n
Sn = ∑T = ∑16r
r =1
r
r =1
2
− 8r + 1

n n n
Sn = 16∑r2 − 8∑r + ∑1
r =1 r =1 r =1

n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) n (n + 1 ) 8
= 16 −8 + n = n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) – 4n(n + 1) + n
6 2 3

 n + 1  n+ 1
Q6. 
If total number of runs scored in n matches is   (2 − n − 2)
 4 
where n>1, and the runs scored in the k th match are given by k · 2n+ 1−k ,
where 1 ≤ k ≤ n, find n.
Sol: Given that
 n + 1  n+ 1
Sn =   (2 − n − 2)
 4 
Sequence & Series

k 
also Tk = k.2n+ 1−k = 2n+ 1  k 
2 
n
now Sn = ∑T  
k =1
k

38.
 1 2 n
Sn = 2n+ 1   + 2n+ 1  2  + ... + 2n+ 1  n 
2 2  2 

Sn  1  n − 1 n
=                        2n+ 1  2  + ... + 2n+ 1  n  + 2n+ 1. n+ 1
2 2   2  2

– – – – –
Sn
= 2n + 2n−1 + ... + 2 − n 
2

Sn 2 ( 2 − 1)
n
= − n 
2 ( 2 − 1)
⇒ Sn = 2 ( 2 − 1) − 2n
2 n

Sn = 2n+2 − 2n − 4 
= 2 ( 2n+ 1 − n − 2 )
n+1
by comparison = 2 ⇒ n = 7 
4
Type-2 (Using method of difference):
 If T1 , T2 , T3 , ... are terms of a sequence then the terms T2 − T1 , T3 − T2 , T4 − T3 , ...  sometimes

are in AP and sometimes in GP. For such series we first compute their nth term and

then compute the sum to n terms, using sigma notation.

Q1. 6 + 13 + 22 + 33 + …n terms
Sol: Let
S = 6 + 13 + 22 + 33 + … + Tn

S= 6 + 13 + 22 +… + Tn−1 + Tn

– – – – – –
0 = 6 + 7 +  9 +  11 + … −  Tn

n− 1 terms

(n − 1 )
Tn = 6 + 2 ( 7 ) + (n − 2) 2 = 6 + (n − 1) (n + 5 )
2
Tn = n2 + 4n + 1 
Sequence & Series

n
n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) 4n (n + 1)
Sn = ∑T
r =1
r =
6
+
2
+ n 

n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1)
= + 2n (n + 1) + n
6

39.
 Q2. 3 + 8 + 15 + 24 + ... upto n terms.

Sol: Let
S = 3 + 8 + 15 + 24 + … + Tn
S =          3 + 8 + 15 + … + Tn−1 + Tn
– – – – – – –
0 = 3 +  5 +  7  +  9 + … −  Tn

n terms

n
Tn = 2 ( 3) + (n − 1) 2 = n2 + 2n
2
n
n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1) n (n + 1 ) n (n + 1) ( 2n + 1)
Sn = ∑T
r =1
r =
6
+ 2.
2
 =  
6
+ n (n + 1 )

Q3. 5 + 7 + 13 + 31 + 85 + … n terms
Sol: Let
S = 5 + 7 + 13 + 31 + 85 + … + Tn
S =        5 + 7 + 13 + 31 +  …  + Tn−1 + Tn
– – – – – – – –
0 = 5 + 2 + 6 + 18
   − Tn
+ 54 + …

n− 1 terms

2 ( 3n−1 − 1)
Tn = 5 + = 3n−1 + 4
( 3 − 1)
n n n
Sn = ∑Tr =
r =1
∑3r−1 + ∑4 
r =1 r =1

1 ( 3 − 1)
n
1 n
Sn =
3−1
+ 4n =
2
( 3 − 1) + 4n
Q4. 2 + 5 + 14 + 41 + 122 + … n terms
Sol: Let
S = 2 + 5 + 14 + 41 + 122 + … + Tn
S =        2 + 5 + 14 + 41 + … + Tn−1 + Tn
– – – – – – – –

Sequence & Series

0 = 2 + 3  +  9 + 27
 + 81 + … − Tn

n− 1 terms

3 ( 3n−1 − 1) 3n 3 3n 1
Tn = 2 + =2+ – = +
( 3 − 1) 2 2 2 2

40.
 1 3 ( 3 − 1) n 3 ( 3n − 1) n
n n

Sn = ∑Tr =
r =1 2 3−1
+ =
2 4
+
2

 1  1 1   1 1 1 
Q5. 1 +  1 +  +  1 + + 2  + … +  1 + + 2 + … + n−1 
 3  3 3   3 3 3 

Sol: For the above series

 1 1 1 
Tr =  1 + + 2 + … + r −1 
 3 3 3 
 1 
 1 − 3r  3 1  3 1 1 
Tr =   =  1 − r  = −  r −1 
 1− 1  2 3  2 23 
 3 
n n
3 1  1 
sn = ∑Tr =
r =1
∑  2 − 2  3
r =1
r −1  

 1 
1 1 −   n 
3n 1  3 
sn = − .  
2 2  1
 1 −   
 3
3n 3  1 
sn = − 1 − n 
2 4 3 

Types-3 (splitting the nth term as a difference of two):

(a) 
Here is a series in which each term is composed of the reciprocal of
the product of r consecutive terms of AP.
1 1 1
(i) + + + ...
1.2.3.4 2.3.4.5 3.4.5.6
1 (r + 3 ) − r
Sol: Tr = =  
r (r + 1) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 ) 3r (r + 1) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 )
1 1
Tr = −  
3r (r + 1) (r + 2) 3 (r + 1) (r + 2) (r + 3 )
1 1
now T1 = −  
3 ( 1.2.3) 3 ( 2.3.4 )
1 1
T2 = −  
3 ( 2.3.4 ) 3 ( 3.4.5 )
Sequence & Series

1 1
T3 = −
3 ( 3.4.5 ) 3 ( 4.5.6 )

1 1
Tn = −  
3n (n + 1) (n + 2 ) 3 (n + 1) (n + 2 ) (n + 3 )
41.
 on addition we get
1  1 1 
Sn =  − 
3  1.2.3 (n + 1) (n + 2 ) (n + 3 ) 

1 1  1
and S∞ =  − 0 =
3  1.2.3  18

1 1 1
(ii) + + +  ...
1· 3 · 5 3 · 5 · 7 5 · 7 · 9
1
Sol: Tr =
(2r − 1) (2r + 1) (2r + 3)
(2r + 3) − (2r − 1)
Tr =
4 ( 2r − 1) ( 2r + 1) ( 2r + 3 )
1 1
     =   −  
4 ( 2r − 1) ( 2r + 1) 4 ( 2r + 1) ( 2r + 3 )
now
1 1
T1 = −  
4 ( 1.3 ) 4 ( 3.5 )
1 1
T2 = −  
4 ( 3.5 ) 4 ( 5.7 )
1 1
T3 = −
4 ( 5.7 ) 4 ( 7.9)

:
:
1 1
Tn = −  
4 ( 2n − 1) ( 2n + 1) 4 ( 2n + 1) ( 2n + 3 )

1  1 1 
Sn =  − 
4  3 ( 2n + 1) ( 2n + 3 ) 

1 1  1
and S∞ =  − 0 =
4 3  12
(b) In this case a factor is missing
3 4 5
(iii)   + + + ... then split the nth term and solve
1.2.4 2.3.5 3.4.6
2
(r + 2 ) (r + 2 )
Sequence & Series

Sol: Tr = =
r (r + 1 ) (r + 3 ) r (r + 1 ) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 )
(r + 1 ) (r + 3 ) + 1
=
r (r + 1 ) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 )

42.
 1 1
= +
r (r + 2 ) r (r + 1 ) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 )
(r + 2 ) − r (r + 3 ) − r
= +
2r (r + 2 ) 3r (r + 1) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 )
1 1 1 1
= − + −
2r 2 (r + 2 ) 3r (r + 1) (r + 2 ) 3 (r + 1) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 )
1 1 1 1
T1 = − + −
2 ( 1) 2 ( 3 ) 3 ( 1.2.3) 3 ( 2.3.4 )
1 1 1 1
T2 = − + −
2 ( 2 ) 2 ( 4 ) 3 ( 2.3.4 ) 3 ( 3.4.5 )

1 1 1 1
T3 = − + −
2 ( 3 ) 2 ( 5 ) 3 ( 3.4.5 ) 3 ( 4.5.6 )


1 1 1 1
Tn−1 = − + −
2 (n − 1) 2 (n + 1) 3 (n − 1) n (n + 1) 3n (n + 1) (n + 2)

1 1 1 1
Tn = − + −
2 (n) 2 (n + 2 ) 3n (n + 1) (n + 2 ) 3 (n + 1) (n + 2 ) (n + 3 )

1 1 1 1  1  1 1 
Sn = 1 + − − +  − 
2  2 n + 1 n + 2  3  6 (n + 1) (n + 2 ) (n + 3 ) 
1 1 1 1 3 1 29
Now S∞ = 1 +  +   = + =
2 2  3  6  4 18 36
(c) Thinking Based
1 2 3 4
(iv) + + + + ...
1.3 1.3.5 1.3.5.7 1.3.5.7.9
r
Sol: Tr =
1.3.5.7... ( 2r + 1)

1  ( 2r + 1) − 1 
Tr =  
2  1.3.5.7 … ( 2r + 1) 

1  1 1 
Tr =  − 
2  1.3.5 … . ( 2r − 1) 3.5.7. ( 2r + 1) 

1 1 1 
T 1 =  − 
Sequence & Series

2 1 3
1 1 1 
T2 =  − 
2 1 ⋅ 3 3 ⋅ 5

43.
 1 1 1 
T3 =  − 
2 1 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 5 3 ⋅ 5 ⋅ 7 
:
:
1  1 1 
Tn =  −  
2  1 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 5 … ( 2n − 1) 3 ⋅ 5 ⋅ 7 … ( 2n + 1) 

1  1 
sn = 1 − 
2  3.5.7. ( 2n + 1) 
1 1
also S∞ = {1 − 0} =
2 2

1 1.3 1.3.5
(v) Find Sn for + + + ... 
2.4 2.4.6 2.4.6.8

Sol: Tr =
( )
1.3.5... 2r − 1
 
(
2.4.6... 2r + 2 )
1.3.5 … (2r − 1) {(2r + 2) − (2r + 1)}
Tr =
2.4.6 … (2r + 2)

1.3.5 … (2r − 1) 1.3.5 … (2r + 1)

Tr = −
2.4.6 … (2r ) 2.4.6 … . (2r + 2)
Now
1 1⋅3
T 1 = −
2 2⋅4
1⋅3 1⋅3⋅5
T2 =   −
2⋅4 2⋅4⋅6
1⋅3⋅5 1⋅3⋅5⋅7
T3 = −
2⋅4⋅6 2⋅4⋅6⋅8
:
:
1 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 5... ( 2n − 1) 1 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 5... ( 2n + 1)
Tn = -
2 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 6... ( 2n) 2 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 6... ( 2n + 2)

Sn =
(
1 1.3.5... 2n + 1
–
)
Sequence & Series

(
2 2.4.6... 2n + 2 )

44.
 1 2 3
Q1. 
Find the sum of the n terms of the sequence + + + ... 
1 + 12 + 14 1 + 22 + 24 1 + 32 + 34
r r
Sol: Tr = =
1+r +r2
(1 + r + r ) (1 − r + r )
4 2 2

Tr =
(r + r + 1 ) − (r − r + 1 )
2 2

2 (1 + r + r ) (1 − r + r )
2 2

1 1
Tr = −
2 ( 1 − r + r2 ) 2 ( 1 + r + r2 )

1 1
T 1 = −  
2 ( 1) 2 ( 3 )
1 1
T2 = −  
2 ( 3) 2 ( 7 )
1 1
T3 = −
2 ( 7 ) 2 ( 13 )
:
1 1
Tn = −
2 ( 1 − n + n ) 2 ( 1 + n + n2 )
2

1 1 
Sn =
1 − 
2  1 + n + n2 
1 1
Also, S∞ = {1 − 0} =
2 2

2x x
∑
∞
Q2. 
Let f(x) denote the sum of the infinite trigonometric series, f(x) = sin .sin n  .
n= 1
3n
3
Find f(x) (independent of n). If the sum of the solution of the equation f(x) = 0 lie in in
the interval (0, 629) is 2kπ , find k
x
Sol: Let n = θ
3
then sin2θ.sinθ = 2sin2 θ cosθ
(
= 2 1 − cos2 θ cosθ )
= 2cosθ − 2cos3 θ
1
Sequence & Series

= 4cosθ − 4cos3 θ
2 
1
=
2
(
cosθ − 4cos3 θ − 3cosθ 
 )

45.
 1
= cosθ − cos3θ
2
2x x 1 x 1 x
hence Tn = sin .sin n = cos n − cos n− 1
3n 3 2 3 2 3
Now
1 x 1
T 1 = cos − cosx
2 3 2
1 x 1 x
T2 =   cos 2 − cos
2 3 2 3

1 x 1 x
T3 = cos 3 − cos 2
2 3 2 3
:
:
1 x 1 x
Tn = cos n − cos n−1
2 3 2 3
1 x 
Sn =  cos n − cosx 
2 3 
1 1
⇒ S∞ = (cos0 − cosx ) = ( 1 − cosx ) = f ( x )
2 2
now equation f ( x ) = 0 ⇒ cosx = 1
⇒ x = 2π, 4π, ...200π
Sum of all solutions = 2π ( 1 + 2 + ... + 100 )
100.101
= 2π ⇒ k = 5050
2
Type-4
Here is a series in which each term is composed of r factors in AP. the
first factor of the several terms being in the same AP.
Q. 1.2.3.4 + 2.3.4.5 + 3.4.5.6 +... upto n terms
Sol: Tr = r (r + 1) (r + 2 ) (r + 3 )
1
r (r + 1) (r + 2) (r + 3 ) {(r + 4 ) − (r − 1)}
Tr =
5
1 1
Tr = r (r + 1) (r + 2) (r + 3 ) (r + 4 ) − (r − 1) r (r + 1) (r + 2) (r + 3)
5 5
1 1
Sequence & Series

T 1 = ( 1 ⋅ 2 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 5 ) − ( 0 ⋅ 1 ⋅ 2 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 4 )
5 5
1 1
T2 = ( 2 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 5 ⋅ 6 ) − ( 1 ⋅ 2 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 5 )
5 5

46.
 1 1
T3 = ( 3 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 5 ⋅ 6 ⋅ 7 ) − (2 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 5 ⋅ 6)
5 5
⋮
1 1
Tn = n ( n + 1 ) ( n + 2 ) ( n + 3 ) (n + 4 ) − ( n − 1 ) n ( n + 1 ) ( n + 2 ) ( n + 3 )
5 5

1
Sn = n (n + 1) (n + 2 ) (n + 3 ) (n + 4)
5

Harmonic Progression (HP):

Definition:
A sequence is said to be in HP if the reciprocal of its terms are in AP.

1 1 1 1
A standard HP is , , ,…,  
a a + d a + 2d a + n − 1d

Note:
(i) If the term of a HP is not defined this means that the corresponding
term of the AP is zero.
(ii) There is no general formula for finding the sum to n terms of HP.
(iii) If a, b, c are in HP
2ac a a −b
b= or =
a+c c b−c
1 1 3
Q1. 
If the 3rd , 6th and last term of a HP are , , respectively, find
3 5 203
the number of terms.
1 1 1
Sol: Given T3 = ⇒ = ⇒ a + 2d = 3 …(1)
3 a + 2d 3
1 1 1
T6 = ⇒ = ⇒ a + 5d = 5 …(2)
5 a + 5d 5
3 1 3 203
also Tn = ⇒ = ⇒ a + (n − 1 ) d = …(3)
203 a + (n − 1) d 203 3
(2) - (1) ⇒ 3d = 2 ⇒ d = 2/3
4 5
and a = 3 − 2d = 3 − =
3 3
5 2 203
from (3), + (n − 1 ) = ⇒ (n − 1) 2 = 198 ⇒ n = 100
3 3 3
Sequence & Series

Q2. 
If mth term of a HP is n, and nth term is equal to m then prove that
th mn
(m + n) term is .
m+n

47.
 1
Sol: Given Tm = n ⇒ a + (m − 1) d = …(1)
n
1
also Tn = m ⇒ a + (n − 1) d = …(2)
m
(2)-(1)
n−m 1
( n − m) d =⇒d=
mn mn
1 1 1 1 1
from (1), ⇒ a + (m − 1) ⇒a+ − = ⇒a=
nm n mn n mn
1 mn mn
now Tm+n = = =
a + (m + n − 1 ) d 1 + (m + n − 1 ) m + n

Q3. If a1 , a2 , a3 , ...an are in HP then prove that

a1a2 + a2a3 + a3a 4 + ... + an−1an = (n − 1) a1an

Sol: Clearly
1 1 1 1
, , , ..., are in AP
a 1 a2 a 3 an
1 1 1 1 1 1
now d = − = − = .... = −
a2 a 1 a 3 a2 an an − 1
a 1 − a2 a2 − a 3 a − an
d= = = .... = n−1
a1a2 a 2a 3 an−1an
a 1 − a2 a2 − a 3 a − an
now a1a2 + a2a3 + ... + an−1an = + + ... + n−1
d d d
a 1 − an
= …(1)
d
1 1
Also we know = + (n − 1 ) d
an a 1
a 1 − an a − an
⇒ = (n − 1 ) d ⇒ 1 = (n − 1) a1an …(2)
a1an d
from (1) and (2)
a1a2 + a2a3 + ... + an−1an = (n − 1) a1an H.P.

b+a b+c
Q4. If a, b, c are in H. P, find the value of +
b−a b−c
1 1 1
Sequence & Series

Sol: , , in AP
a b c
1 1 1 1
− = − = d (let )
b a c b

48.
 a −b b−c
= =d
ab bc
b+a b+c
now given exp. +
−abd bcd
1  −b b  1  1 1  2d
=  − 1 + + 1 ⇒ b −  = =2
bd  a c  bd c a d

HARMONIC MEAN
Consider n positive quantities a1, a2, a3, …, an.
n
H.M. =
1 1 1
+ + ... +
a 1 a2 an

Note:

If a, b, c are in HP then middle term is called the harmonic mean

between them. Hence if H is the harmonic mean (H.M.) of a and b
2ab
then a, H, b are in HP and H = .
a +b

To insert n HM between a and b

n
1 1
Let H1 ,H2 , ...Hn  are n HM’s between a and b hence ∑H
i= 1
= n.
H
i

Hence sum of the reciprocals of all n HM’s between a and b is equal

to n times a single HM between a and b.
Q1. Find the HM between the roots of the equation x2 − 10x + 11 = 0
Sol: let roots are α, β then α + β = 10, αβ = 11

HM of α, β =
2
=
( ) = 11
2 11
1 1 10 5
+
α β
100
1 1
Q2. Between 1 and
100
if 100 HM are inserted then ∑H
i= 1
=?
i

1
Sol: HM of a and b (a=1, b= )
100
 1 
Sequence & Series

2 ( 1)  
2ab  100  = 2
H= =
a +b 1 101
1+
100
100
1 1 101
also ∑ = 100. = 100. = 5050
i= 1
Hi H 2
49.
 Q3.  If a is the AM of b and c, b is GM of c and a then prove that c is the
HM of a and b.
b+c
Sol: Given a = ⇒ 2a –b = c …(1)
2
also b2 = ac ⇒ b2 = a ( 2a − b )
b2 − a2 = a ( a − b )
(b − a ) (b + a ) = a (a − b) ⇒ a = b or b + a = −a
b = −2a
If a = b then c = 2a − a = a from (1)
∴ a = b = c ⇒ c is HM of a & b
If b = – 2a then c = 2a - (-2a) = 4a
2ab 2a ( −2a )
Also = = 4a = c ⇒ c is HM of a and b.
a + b a + ( −2a )

Q4. If a2 ,b2 , c2 are in AP, show that b + c, c + a, a + b are in HP

Sol: ∵ a2 ,b2 , c2 in AP
add ab + bc + ca
⇒ (a + b)(c + a), (a + b)(b + c), (b + c)(c + a)
Divide by (a + b)(b + c)(c + a)
1 1 1
⇒ , , in AP
b+c c+a a +b
⇒ b + c, c + a, a + b in HP
15 18
Q5. The values of xyz is or according as the series a, x, y, z, b is an
2 5
AP or HP. Find the values of a & b assuming them to be positive
integer.
Sol: Given
15
If a, x, y, z, b in AP⇒ xyz =
2
now
b, z, y, x, a also AP
divide by ab
1 z y x 1
, , , , in AP
a ab ab ab b
ab ab ab
⇒  a, , , ,b in HP
Sequence & Series

z y x
ab ab ab 18
now given . . =
z y x 5
3 18 18 15
⇒ ( ab ) = xyz = . = 27
5 5 2

50.
 3
⇒ ( ab ) = 33 ⇒ ab = 3
hence a = 3, b = 1 or a = 1, b = 3

Q6. 
If the roots of 10x3 − cx2 − 54x − 27 = 0 are in harmonic progression,
then find c and all the roots.
Sol: Let roots are , α, β, γ (in HP)
1 1 1 10 c 54
the equation having roots , , in AP is 3 − 2 − − 27 = 0
α β γ x x x

1
= a−d
α
⇒ 27x3 + 54x2 + cx − 10 = 0 1
=a
β
1
=a+d
γ
−54 −2
sum = 3a = = −2 ⇒ a =
27 3
10
product = a ( a2 − d2 ) =
27
−2  4 2 10 4 5
⇒  −d  = ⇒ − d2 = −
3 9  27 9 9
⇒ d2 = 1 ⇒ d = ±1
1 −2 1 −2 1 −2
roots = ± 1, = , = 1
α 3 β 3 γ 3
 −3 −3   −3 −3 
( )
α, β, γ ≡  3, , or ,
 2 5   5 2 
,3

Also, 3 is a root of given equation.

hence 10(27) – c(9) – 54(3) – 27 = 0
9 {30 – c – 18 – 3} = 0 ⇒ c = 9

If the roots of the equation a (b − c ) x2 + b ( c − a ) x + c ( a − b ) = 0 are

Q7. 
equal then prove that a, b, c are in H.P.
Sol: Clearly x = 1 is a root hence both roots are 1, 1
c (a − b)
Now product 1.1  =  
a (b − c )
⇒ ca – cb = ab – ac
Sequence & Series

⇒ 2ac = ab + bc
2ac
⇒b=
a+c
⇒ a, b, c are in HP.

51.
 Relation between AM, GM and HM
 If a and b are two positive numbers then A ≥ G ≥ H and A, G, H are in
G. P i.e., G2=AH.
In fact, RMS ≥ AM ≥ GM ≥ HM
Q1. If a, b and c are positive then prove that
a b c 3
+ + ≥
b+c c+a a +b 2
Sol. We have
a b c 3
+ + ≥
b+c c+a a +b 2
a b c 3
⇒ +1+ +1+ +1≥ +3
b+c c+a a +b 2
a +b+c a +b+c a +b+c 9
⇒ + + ≥
b+c c+a a +b 2

1 1 1 9
⇒ + + ≥
b + c c + a a + b 2 (a + b + c )
Now, using A.M. ≥ H.M., we have
1 1 1
+ +
b+c c+a a +b ≥ 3

3 ( a + b ) + (b + c ) + ( c + a )
1 1 1 9
⇒ + + ≥
b + c c + a a + b 2 (a + b + c )

GENERAL ILLUSTRATIONS:
a−x a−y a−z
Q1.  If = = and p, q, r are in AP then prove that x, y, z are
px qy rz
in HP.
a−x a−y a−z
Sol: = = = k (let )
px qy rz
a−x a−y a−z
= p, = q, =r
kx ky kz
now p, q, r are in AP
hence 2q = p + r
a − y  a − x a − z
2 = +
 ky  kx kz
Sequence & Series

2a  1 a a 
⇒  − 1  =  − 1 + − 1
ky  k x z 

2 1 1
⇒ = + ⇒ x, y, z in H.P
y x z
52.
Q2. 
If a x = by = cz = dw and a, b, c, d are in GP then prove that x, y, z, w
are in HP.
Sol: let a x = by = cz = dw = k (let )
1 1 1 1
⇒ a = k x ,b = k y , c = k z , d = k w
1 1 1 1
∵ k x ,k y ,k z ,k w in GP
1 1 1 1
∴ , , , in AP
x y z w
⇒ x, y, z, w are in HP
Q3. 
If a, b, c are three distinct positive reals in HP then prove that
an + cn > 2bn
Sol: Since a, b, c in HP
therefore, b is HM of a and c
Also, GM > HM
( )
n
ac > b ⇒ ac > bn …(1)

also let numbers an, cn

AM > GM
an + cn 1
an + cn
> ( ancn ) 2 ⇒ ( )
n
> ac …(2)
2 2
by (1) & (2)
an + cn
> bn ⇒ an + cn > 2bn
2
Q4.  If a, b, c are in AP. p, q, r are in HP and ap, bq, cr are in GP then prove
that
p r a c
+ = + .
r p c a
Sol: a, b, c are in AP⇒ 2b = a + c …(1)
2pr
p, q, r are in HP ⇒ q = …(2)
p+r
Also, ap, bq, cr are in GP
⇒ b2q2 = ap.cr
2 2
 a + c   2pr 
⇒     = ac.pr 
Sequence & Series

 2  p + r 
a c p r
⇒ + = +
c a r p

53.
 Q5.  If the roots of equation x3 − 11x2 + 36x − 36 = 0 are in H. P. find the
middle root.
Sol: let roots are α , β, γ (in HP)
1 1 1 1 11 36
then equation having roots , ,   is 3 − 2 + − 36 = 0
α β γ x x x

36 1 1
sum = 3a = = 1⇒a = =
36 3 β
∴ middle root β = 3
Sequence & Series

54.