Definition
Number sequence
A number sequence is an ordered list of numbers, with each number in a fixed position.
Continue from this idea into connected AXIO math.
Defining relationship
Order matters: every number has its own place in the list.
A number sequence is an ordered list whose entries are numbers. Each entry is a term with a fixed position. A rule may generate the terms, but a short displayed list does not always determine one unique rule.
- term 15+ 3
- term 28+ 3
- term 311+ 3
- term 414
same positional rule: add 3
What it means
Read a number sequence in order, like a path of numbered stepping-stones. Look at what changes from one term to the next and where each term sits. Changing the order changes the sequence, even when the same numbers are used.
Remember it
Order matters: every number has its own place in the list.
Example
In 2, 5, 8, 11, … each term is 3 more than the term before it. Following that rule, the next term is 14.
Watch for
2, 5, 8 and 8, 5, 2 contain the same three numbers, but they are different sequences because their order is different.
Common mix-up
A few shown terms can fit more than one possible rule. State the rule when the intended continuation must be unambiguous.
Exact meaning
A number sequence is an ordered list whose entries are numbers. Each entry is a term with a fixed position. A rule may generate the terms, but a short displayed list does not always determine one unique rule.