NDA2013MathematicsSequences and SeriesActual
The sum of the first five terms and the sum of the first ten terms of an AP are same. Which one of the following is the correct statement?
Options
- AThe first term must be negative
- BThe common difference must be negative
- CEither the first term or the common difference is negative but not both
- DBoth the first term and the common difference are negative
Correct answer
C. Either the first term or the common difference is negative but not both
Step-by-step solution
Let first term and common difference are a and d respectively. Sum of first five terms = Sum of first ten terms aligned & 5 2 (2 a+(5-1) d)= 10 2 (2 a+(10-1) d) & or, 5(a+2 d)=5(2 a+9 d) & or, a+7 d=0 aligned This is true, only when either a or d is negative but not both together.