In an arithmetic sequence with 25 terms, if the first term is 60 and last term is -12 the common difference is
Explanation
To find the common difference \( d \) in an arithmetic sequence with \( 25 \) terms, where the first term \( a_1 = 60 \) and the last term \( a_{25} = -12 \), use the formula for the \( n \)-th term of an arithmetic sequence:
\[
a_n = a_1 + (n - 1) \times d
\]
Here, \( n = 25 \), \( a_1 = 60 \), and \( a_{25} = -12 \). We need to find \( d \).
Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Substitute the known values into the formula for the 25th term:
\[
a_{25} = a_1 + (25 - 1) \times d
\]
\[
-12 = 60 + 24 \times d
\]
2. Solve for \( d \):
\[
-12 - 60 = 24 \times d
\]
\[
-72 = 24 \times d
\]
\[
d = \frac{-72}{24} = -3
\]
The common difference is -3.
The correct answer is C. -3.