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MathsMediumClass 11

General Term — Tr+1 in (a+b)ⁿ

Binomial Theorem

9

JEE Qs

8%

Hard

50

min

Master the correct identification of 'a', 'b', and 'n', and ensure meticulous calculation of powers and binomial coefficients to avoid common errors.

🧮 Key Formulas

T_r+1 = nCr * a^(n-r) * b^r (for the expansion of (a+b)^n)

✅ Key Points for JEE

  • 1The term T_r+1 is the (r+1)-th term in the expansion of (a+b)^n, and 'r' is the exponent of the second term 'b'.
  • 2Always correctly identify 'a', 'b', and 'n' from the given binomial expression, paying close attention to signs and any complex expressions.
  • 3To find the k-th term (e.g., 5th term), set r+1 = k (e.g., r=4) and substitute into the general term formula.
  • 4This formula is fundamental for solving various problems like finding coefficients of specific powers, terms independent of a variable, or middle terms.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Confusing 'r' with the term number; T_r+1 is the (r+1)-th term, not the r-th term.
  • Sign errors when 'a' or 'b' are negative terms (e.g., (x-y)^n where b = -y).
  • Algebraic mistakes in simplifying the powers of 'a' and 'b', especially when 'a' or 'b' are expressions involving variables (e.g., (x^2 + 1/x)^n).

NCERT Chapters

  • Class 11 Maths Ch 8: Binomial Theorem