1. Start with the initial term:
a_1 = 7
2. For the 2nd term, add 7:
a_2 = a_1 + 7 = 14
3. For the 3rd term, add 3:
a_3 = a_2 + 3 = 17
4. Continue this pattern: add 7, then add 3, and so on.
5. 4th term: 17 + 7 = 24
6. 5th term: 24 + 3 = 27
7. 6th term: 27 + 7 = 34
8. 7th term: 34 + 3 = 37
9. 8th term: 37 + 7 = 44
10. Finally, for the 9th term, add 3 to the 8th term:
a_9 = 44 + 3 = 47
The 9th term is 47.