Solution:** The sequence 2, 5, 8, 11, ... is arithmetic with first term \( a = 2 \) and common difference \( d = 3 \).

["Understanding the Arithmetic Sequence: 2, 5, 8, 11, …", "An arithmetic sequence is a fundamental concept in mathematics that describes a pattern of numbers with a constant difference between consecutive terms. One of the most familiar arithmetic sequences starts with 2, 5, 8, 11, and continues infinitely. This sequence offers a clear and practical example of how arithmetic progression works.", "### What Makes This Sequence Arithmetic?", "The sequence 2, 5, 8, 11, … is arithmetic because the difference between any two consecutive terms remains the same. Calculating the differences:\n- ( 5 - 2 = 3 )\n- ( 8 - 5 = 3 )\n- ( 11 - 8 = 3 )", "Thus, the common difference ( d = 3 ), and the first term ( a = 2 ). This constant increment reflects the core property of an arithmetic progression.", "### Formula for the (n)th Term", "A key feature of arithmetic sequences is the ability to calculate any term using the formula:\n[\na_n = a + (n - 1) \cdot d\n]\nWhere:\n- ( a_n ) is the (n)th term,\n- ( a ) is the first term,\n- ( d ) is the common difference,\n- ( n ) is the position of the term in the sequence.", "For the sequence 2, 5, 8, 11, …, plugging in ( a = 2 ) and ( d = 3 ):\n[\na_n = 2 + (n - 1) \cdot 3 = 3n - 1\n]", "This means:\n- ( a_1 = 3(1) - 1 = 2 )\n- ( a_2 = 3(2) - 1 = 5 )\n- ( a_3 = 3(3) - 1 = 8 )\n- ( a_4 = 3(4) - 1 = 11 )\n- and so on.", "### Applications of Arithmetic Sequences", "Arithmetic sequences are not just theoretical; they appear in real-life scenarios such as:\n- Calculating evenly spaced payments over time (e.g., monthly savings).\n- Modeling linear growth patterns like distance traveled at constant speed.\n- Organizing data in spreadsheets or calendars with regular intervals.", "### Conclusion", "The sequence 2, 5, 8, 11, … exemplifies a simple yet powerful arithmetic progression defined by a first term of 2 and a common difference of 3. Understanding such sequences helps build foundational skills in algebra and pattern recognition, essential for more advanced mathematical concepts and everyday problem-solving. Whether you’re solving equations, analyzing trends, or planning budgets, recognizing arithmetic sequences like this = an important tool in your mathematical toolkit.", "---", "Key Search Terms:\narithmetic sequence, arithmetic progression, arithmetic sequence formula, first term a=2, common difference d=3, nth term formula, linear sequence, math fundamentals, pattern recognition in math", "---", "By mastering sequences like 2, 5, 8, 11, …, you gain confidence in working with numerical patterns and strengthen your logical thinking for broader mathematical success."]









