What is the definition of an arithmetic sequence?

An arithmetic sequence is defined as a sequence of numbers in which the difference between consecutive terms is constant. This constant difference is achieved through the addition of a specific value to each term to obtain the next term in the sequence. For example, in the sequence 2, 5, 8, 11, the constant value of 3 is added to each term to create the next term.

This definition highlights the key characteristic of arithmetic sequences: the operation involved is addition of a fixed number, which distinguishes it from other types of sequences. In contrast, the other options describe different forms of sequences or arrangements that do not fit this specific criterion.