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jmc

algebra senior

Problem

Let the first term of a geometric sequence be , and let the second term be . What is the smallest for which the th term of the sequence is divisible by one million?
Solution
The common ratio is Therefore, the th term is .

If one million (aka ) divides the th term, then it must be divisible by . This can only happen if is at least , or .

The th term is which is divisible by , so the answer is indeed .
Final answer
7