Question

which word best describes this formula for the sequence $a_n$?
$a_n = 2a_{n - 1} - n - 12$
explicit recursive

Explanation:

A recursive sequence formula defines each term using one or more previous terms of the sequence. The given formula $a_n = 2a_{n-1} - n - 12$ defines the $n$-th term $a_n$ using the $(n-1)$-th term $a_{n-1}$, which is a previous term in the sequence. An explicit formula would define $a_n$ solely in terms of $n$, without referencing prior terms.

Answer:

recursive