Topic Details (Notes format)

How to Interpret Sigma Notation (Summation)

Subject: Mathematics

Book: Maths Mastery

Sigma notation Σ f(k), k=a..b condenses sums of sequences. For instance, Σ (from k=1 to n) of k² sums squares up to n². This notation is standard in series expansions, integrals approximations, or discrete mathematics proofs. Interpreting it helps read or construct advanced formulas swiftly—like the sum of an arithmetic or geometric sequence. Building fluency with sigma notation powers your forays into calculus (Riemann sums), combinatorics, or any scenario needing compact, systematic summation representation.

Practice Questions

What is the length of the diagonal of a square with a side length of 7 cm?

A sum triples in 20 years at simple interest. What is the rate of interest per annum?

If a rectangle has a length of 10 cm and a width of 6 cm, what is its perimeter?

If the ratio of two numbers is 3:5 and their HCF is 4, what are the numbers?

What is the slope of a line passing through the points (2, 3) and (4, 7)?

If sin(θ) = 3/5 and θ is an acute angle, what is tan(θ)?

A number is increased by 20% and then decreased by 20%. What is the net change?

If a number is divisible by 9, it is also divisible by which of the following?

If the product of two numbers is 120 and their sum is 26, what are the numbers?

A number is increased by 20% and then decreased by 10%. What is the net change?