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Reviewed CSCA Mathematics question · Easy

In an arithmetic sequence, the 5th term is 17 and the 9th term is 33. What is the common difference?

  1. 2
  2. 3
  3. 4
  4. 5
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer

C. 4

Principle or equation

For an arithmetic sequence, a_n = a_1 + (n-1)d. The difference between terms is (9-5)d = 4d.

Why this answer is correct

a_9 - a_5 = 33 - 17 = 16 = 4d, so d = 4.

Example

If a_3 = 10 and a_7 = 22, then 4d = 12, d = 3.

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