Exploring the "n+1" Sequence: Seeking a Closed Form Solution

In summary, the conversation discusses a common sequence where the difference between two successive numbers increases by 1. The question is whether there is a closed form expression for this sequence. It is suggested that this can be solved by using a recurrence relation and a standard formula for the sum of consecutive numbers.
  • #1
aaaa202
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For a system I am studying the following sequence (which I would assume is quite common) came up:

n1=1, n2=2, n3=4, n4=7, n5=11, n6=16, n7=22 ... i.e. the difference betweens two successive numbers grows with 1 as we move from (n_N-1, n_N) to (n_N,n_N+1).
Is there a closed form expression f(k) for this sequence, i.e. f(1)=n1, f(2)=n2, f(3)=n3 etc.

edit: So basically I have a sequence with I think what is called a recurence relation equal to:

x_n+1 = x_n+n

Can I find a closed form for this?
 
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  • #2
aaaa202 said:
For a system I am studying the following sequence (which I would assume is quite common) came up:

n1=1, n2=2, n3=4, n4=7, n5=11, n6=16, n7=22 ... i.e. the difference betweens two successive numbers grows with 1 as we move from (n_N-1, n_N) to (n_N,n_N+1).
Is there a closed form expression f(k) for this sequence, i.e. f(1)=n1, f(2)=n2, f(3)=n3 etc.

edit: So basically I have a sequence with I think what is called a recurence relation equal to:

x_n+1 = x_n+n

Can I find a closed form for this?

Hint:
[tex]
\sum_{k=1}^n k - \sum_{k=1}^{n-1} k = n
[/tex]

The sum can be expressed in closed form as a standard result.
 

Related to Exploring the "n+1" Sequence: Seeking a Closed Form Solution

1. What is the "n+1" sequence?

The "n+1" sequence is a mathematical sequence in which each term is equal to the previous term plus one. For example, the first few terms of the sequence are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and so on.

2. Why is a closed form solution important in exploring the "n+1" sequence?

A closed form solution is important because it provides a simple and explicit formula for finding any term in the sequence without having to go through each previous term. This can save time and effort in solving complex problems involving the sequence.

3. What are some methods for finding a closed form solution for the "n+1" sequence?

Some methods for finding a closed form solution for the "n+1" sequence include using mathematical induction, generating functions, and recurrence relations. Each method has its own advantages and may be more suitable for different types of sequences.

4. Are there any real-world applications for the "n+1" sequence?

Yes, the "n+1" sequence has applications in various fields such as computer science, engineering, and physics. For example, it can be used to model the growth of a population or the number of bacteria in a culture over time.

5. Can the "n+1" sequence be generalized to other sequences?

Yes, the "n+1" sequence can be generalized to other sequences by replacing the constant one with any constant or variable. This leads to the "n+k" sequence, where each term is equal to the previous term plus k.

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