Find $a_{2017}$: Sequence Challenge

In summary, the sequence challenge is a mathematical problem where you are given a sequence of numbers and are asked to find a specific term within that sequence. To find the term at position 2017, you need to examine the pattern of the sequence and use a formula to find the corresponding output. While some mathematical background may be helpful, anyone with basic knowledge of arithmetic and algebra can attempt to solve this challenge. Strategies such as identifying differences between consecutive terms and looking for common factors or multiples can be useful in solving the challenge. If a pattern or formula cannot be found, brute force methods or seeking help from others can be helpful.
  • #1
lfdahl
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Find $a_{2017}$, if $a_1 = 1$, and $$\frac{a_n}{n+1}=\frac{\sum_{i=1}^{n-1}a_i}{n-1}.$$
 
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  • #2
lfdahl said:
Find $a_{2017}$, if $a_1 = 1$, and $$\frac{a_n}{n+1}=\frac{\sum_{i=1}^{n-1}a_i}{n-1}---(1).$$

$a_{2017}=1009\times 2^{2016}$ correct ?
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Albert said:
$a_{2017}=1009\times 2^{2016}$ correct ?

Yes, that´s correct!
 
  • #4
my solution:
from(1) we have:
$a_1=1,a_2=3,a_3=8,a_4=20,a_5=48,------$
so we may set :$a_n=2a_{n-1}+2^{n-2}---(2)$
or $a_n-a_{n-1}=a_{n-1}+2^{n-2}--(3)$
and $S_{n-1}=a_n(\dfrac{n-1}{n+1})---(4)$
so $$a_{2017}-{\sum_{i=1}^{2016}a_i}=2^{2016}$$
or $a_{2017}-S_{2016}=2^{2016}$
from $(3)(4)$$a_{2017}=1009\times 2^{2016}$
 
  • #5
Albert said:
my solution:
from(1) we have:
$a_1=1,a_2=3,a_3=8,a_4=20,a_5=48,------$
so we may set :$a_n=2a_{n-1}+2^{n-2}---(2)$
or $a_n-a_{n-1}=a_{n-1}+2^{n-2}--(3)$
and $S_{n-1}=a_n(\dfrac{n-1}{n+1})---(4)$
so $$a_{2017}-{\sum_{i=1}^{2016}a_i}=2^{2016}$$
or $a_{2017}-S_{2016}=2^{2016}$
from $(3)(4)$$a_{2017}=1009\times 2^{2016}$

Good job, Albert! Thankyou for your participation!
 

Related to Find $a_{2017}$: Sequence Challenge

1. What is the sequence challenge?

The sequence challenge is a mathematical problem where you are given a sequence of numbers and are asked to find a specific term within that sequence, in this case, the term at position 2017.

2. How do I find the term at position 2017?

To find the term at position 2017, you need to first examine the pattern of the sequence and try to find a rule or formula that describes how the numbers are changing. Once you have a formula, you can plug in 2017 as the input to find the corresponding output, which will be the desired term.

3. Do I need any special skills to solve this challenge?

While some mathematical background may be helpful, anyone with basic knowledge of arithmetic and algebra can attempt to solve the sequence challenge. It mainly requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

4. Are there any strategies or techniques that can help me solve the challenge?

There are various strategies and techniques that can be used to solve the sequence challenge, such as finding the differences between consecutive terms, looking for common factors or multiples, or using geometric or recursive patterns. It may also be helpful to look at smaller sections of the sequence to identify any repeating patterns.

5. What if I cannot find a pattern or formula for the sequence?

If you are unable to find a pattern or formula for the sequence, you can try brute force or trial and error methods by plugging in different values for the position until you find the desired term. Alternatively, you can also ask for help from others or use online resources to see if someone has already solved the challenge.

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