Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 0
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Relating two AP terms gives a linear equation in the first term and common difference. Once the relation is solved, the requested term follows by substitution.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Expand and collect terms to express a in terms of d, then compute a_12 = a + 11d.
Step-by-Step Solution:
5a + 20d = 7a + 42d ⇒ 0 = 2a + 22d ⇒ a = −11d.a_12 = a + 11d = (−11d) + 11d = 0.
Verification / Alternative check:
If a = −11 and d = 1, then a_5 = −7; a_7 = −5; 5(−7) = −35; 7(−5) = −35 (condition holds), and a_12 = 0.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Nonzero values contradict the derived identity a = −11d which forces a_12 = 0 for all d.
Common Pitfalls:
Plugging n instead of n − 1; arithmetic slips when moving terms across the equality.
Final Answer:
0
Discussion & Comments