GreenlightTestPrep wrote:
In a certain sequence, \(S_n\) represents the sum of all terms from \(t_1\) to \(t_n\), inclusive (for \(n ≥ 1\)).
If \(S_n = 3n^2\), what is the value of \(t_7\)?
A) 36
B) 39
C) 45
D) 49
E) 108
First recognize that \(S_7 = t_1 + t_2 + t_3 + t_4 + t_5 + t_6 + t_7\), and \(S_6 = t_1 + t_2 + t_3 + t_4 + t_5 + t_6\)
This means, \(S_7 - S_6 = (t_1 + t_2 + t_3 + t_4 + t_5 + t_6 + t_7) - (t_1 + t_2 + t_3 + t_4 + t_5 + t_6) = t_7\) (which is exactly what we're trying to find the value of)
\(S_7 = 3(7)^2\), and \(S_6 = 3(6)^2\)
So, \(S_7 - S_6 = 3(7)^2 - 3(6)^2 = 39 = t_7\)
Answer: B