WAEC Further Mathematics 2011 Question 19

Question 19

Sequences and Series

The fourth term of a geometric sequence is 2 and the sixth term is 8. Find the common ratio.

  1. A.±1
  2. B.±2
  3. C.±3
  4. D.±4
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (±2)

Explanation

ar3 = 2 and ar5 = 8. Dividing, r2 = 4, so r = ±2.