Arithmetic

Essential formulas and concepts in arithmetic

Sum of the first $n$ natural numbers

\(1 + 2 + \cdots + n = \frac{n(n+1)}{2}\)

Variables:

  • \(n is a positive integer.\)

Description/Usage:

Gives the sum of all natural numbers from \(1\) up to \(n\). Often illustrated by pairing terms (e.g. \(1+n\), \(2+(n-1)\), etc.) to simplify the addition.

Mathematical concept visualization

Arithmetic sequence (nth term)

\(a_n = a_1 + (n-1)d\)

Variables:

  • \(a_n is the nth term of the sequence, a_1 is the first term, d is the common difference, and n is the term index.\)

Description/Usage:

Defines the general term of an arithmetic progression (constant difference between consecutive terms). A linear graph represents the sequence values.

Mathematical concept visualization

Arithmetic series (sum of first $n$ terms of an AP)

\(S_n = \frac{n}{2}(2a_1 + (n-1)d)\)

Variables:

  • \(S_n is the sum of the first n terms, a_1 is the first term, d is the common difference, n is the number of terms.\)

Description/Usage:

Calculates the sum of an arithmetic progression. Often visualized by pairing terms from ends toward the center (which all yield the same sum).

Mathematical concept visualization