The sum of the first n positive integers is
A
1/2 n(n-1)
B
n(n+1)
C
n(n-1)
D
1/2 n(n+1)
Verified Correct Answer: D.
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
Let the positive integers be 1, 2, ,3, 4, .....n
∴ a = 1, d = 1 and n = n
Sn = n/2(2a + (n-1)d)
= n/2 (2 + n – 1)
= 1/2n(n + 1)
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #9040)