In an arithmetic sequence, if a4 = 18 and a10 = 30, determine a1, d, and an.
Then write the first four terms of the sequence.
Use the formula L = A + (N-1)D, where L represents the nth term.
Then, based upon the given info,
18 = A + (4-1)D and 30 = A + (10-1)D.
The first equation boils down to 18 = A + 3D, so that A = 18 - 3D. Subst. 18-3D for A in the second equation: 30 = 18-3D + 9D. Then 12=6D and D = 2.
Use A = 18 - 3D to determine the value of A. Recall that D=2.
Then A = 18 - 3(2), or A = 18-6, or A = 12.
Then L = A + (N-1)D becomes L = 12 + (N-1)(2).
First term is 12. Next is 14; next is 16; last is 18.