Question

Can someone explain why this sequence is neither arithmetic nor geometric?

2,3,4,8,12

Answer 1

For a sequence to be arithmetic, the common difference between consecutive terms should be the same. But here, we see that it's not the case.

A.k.a.

Though 3-2=4-3 and 8-4=12-8, still the middle terms 4-3≠ 8-4

Hence, common difference is not constant


For a sequence to be geometric, the ratio of two consecutive terms should be the same

But here, we see that it's not

I.e., 3/2≠4/3≠8/4≠12/8


Therefore, this sequence is neither arithmetic nor geometric.