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Quadratic Sequence - GCSE Maths Definition

Reviewed by: Dan Finlay

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A quadratic sequence is a sequence of numbers pattern where the second difference between each term is constant. The (first) difference between terms in a linear sequence are not constant, but increase or decrease in a regular pattern - in other words, the first differences make a linear sequence.

The nth term of a quadratic sequences will be given by

a n squared space space plus b n plus c

where a, b, and c are constants. a ≠ 0.

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Dan Finlay

Reviewer: Dan Finlay

Expertise: Maths Subject Lead

Dan graduated from the University of Oxford with a First class degree in mathematics. As well as teaching maths for over 8 years, Dan has marked a range of exams for Edexcel, tutored students and taught A Level Accounting. Dan has a keen interest in statistics and probability and their real-life applications.

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