3. An exponential sequence is defined by \( 30, 15, 7 \frac{1}{2}, \ldots \). Find the sum to infinity of this sequence. A. 15 B. 30 C. 45 D. 60
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Bonus Knowledge
To find the sum to infinity of the given exponential sequence, we first need to determine the common ratio. The common ratio \( r \) can be found by dividing the second term by the first term: \[ r = \frac{15}{30} = \frac{1}{2} \] Now, we confirm the common ratio by checking the next pair of terms: \[ \frac{7 \frac{1}{2}}{15} = \frac{7.5}{15} = \frac{1}{2} \] This confirms that \( r = \frac{1}{2} \). The formula for the sum to infinity \( S \) of a geometric series is given by: \[ S = \frac{a}{1 - r} \] where \( a \) is the first term and \( r \) is the common ratio. Here, \( a = 30 \) and \( r = \frac{1}{2} \). Plugging in these values: \[ S = \frac{30}{1 - \frac{1}{2}} = \frac{30}{\frac{1}{2}} = 30 \times 2 = 60 \] So the sum to infinity of the sequence is \( \boxed{60} \).