To find the general term an of the sequence, we observe the recursive formula an+1=an2+4an+2
step 2
Notice that the recursive formula can be rewritten as an+1=(an+2)2−2, which suggests a substitution might simplify the sequence
step 3
Let's define a new sequence cn=an+2. Then cn+1=an+1+2=(an+2)2=cn2
step 4
Since a1=2, we have c1=a1+2=4. The new sequence cn is a geometric sequence with c1=4 and common ratio cn/cn−1=cn−1
step 5
The general term for cn is cn=42n−1
step 6
Therefore, the general term for an is an=cn−2=42n−1−2
step 7
To find bn, we use the definition bn=an+31+an−1+11
step 8
Substitute an and an−1 with their expressions: bn=42n−1+11+42n−2−11
step 9
Notice that bn simplifies to bn=42n−1−142n−2−1+42n−1+142n−1+1=1
step 10
Since each term bn=1, the sum of the first n terms Sn is simply n
Answer
an=42n−1−2, Sn=n
Key Concept
Geometric sequence and series summation
Explanation
The key to solving the problem is recognizing the recursive formula's pattern and simplifying it by a substitution that reveals a geometric sequence. The sum of the first n terms of the sequence {bn} is straightforward once we find that each term bn equals 1.