Number series with alternating operations: find the missing term to continue the pattern. Sequence given: 2, 3, 3, 5, 10, 13, ?, 43, 172, 177 Identify the rule and compute the value of the missing term. Choose the correct next number.

Pattern insight The sequence alternates between “add an increasing odd number” and “multiply by an increasing integer”.

Detail Start at 2: +1 → 3; ×1 → 3; +2 → 5; ×2 → 10; +3 → 13; ×3 → 39; +4 → 43; ×4 → 172; +5 → 177.

Result The missing term after 13 is 13 × 3 = 39.

Common pitfall Assuming a single arithmetic or geometric pattern; it is a mixed-operation pattern.