Asked by Francesca

Solve the recurrence relation a_n = -2a_n-1 + 15a_n-2, n ≥ 2, given a₀ = 1, a₁ = -1.

x² + 2x - 15, the distinct roots 3 and -5, so a_n = C₁(3^n) + C₂(-5)^n. The initial condition gives a₀ = 1 = C₁ - C₂, a₁ = -1 = 3C₁ - 5C₂. We obtain C₁ = C₂ = 1/2 and so a_n = 1/2(3^n) + 1/2(-5)^n.

My question is how does C₁ = C₂ = 1/2 can some please how do you derive to this answer because I'm confused.Thank you for any help.

Answers

Answered by Count Iblis
There wasa typo in the equations derived from the initial conditions. You should have:

The initial condition gives

a₀ = 1 = C₁ + C₂,

a₁ = -1 = 3C₁ - 5C₂


It then easily follows that

C₁ = C₂ = 1/2
Answered by Francesca
Sorry I still don't get it. Can someone please explain?

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