Number series — pick the odd term (increments should be successive primes): 125, 127, 130, 135, 142, 153, 165

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 165

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:Another common construction uses increments equal to consecutive prime numbers. If a final step uses the wrong increment, that last term becomes the odd one out.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Series: 125, 127, 130, 135, 142, 153, 165
  • Increments suspected: +2, +3, +5, +7, +11, +13…

Concept / Approach:Compute consecutive differences and map them to the prime list. Any mismatch will surface immediately.

Step-by-Step Solution:

127 − 125 = +2 (prime)130 − 127 = +3 (prime)135 − 130 = +5 (prime)142 − 135 = +7 (prime)153 − 142 = +11 (prime)165 − 153 = +12 (should be +13 next)Therefore, the correct last term should be 153 + 13 = 166. The given 165 is off by −1 and is the outlier.

Verification / Alternative check:

Replacing 165 with 166 yields perfect prime increments: +2, +3, +5, +7, +11, +13.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

130, 142, 153 all fit prime-step increments; they are consistent with the intended rule.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing near-prime increments (like +12) with the actual next prime +13.

Final Answer:165

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