Number series – find the next term. Sequence: 2, 4, 12, 48, 240, ( ? )

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 1440

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:Product series frequently multiply by increasing integers. Detecting the multiplying factors allows quick prediction of the next term.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Sequence: 2, 4, 12, 48, 240
  • We need the sixth term.

Concept / Approach:Check ratios between successive terms: they may be 2, 3, 4, 5, suggesting the next ratio is 6. Such factorial-like growth is common in exam problems.

Step-by-Step Solution:

2 * 2 = 44 * 3 = 1212 * 4 = 4848 * 5 = 240Next factor is 6: 240 * 6 = 1440

Verification / Alternative check:List multipliers: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. They form a simple ascending integer sequence, confirming the logic.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 960: Would imply multiplying by 4 again, breaking the increasing-factor pattern.
  • 1080: Would correspond to multiplying by 4.5, not an integer step.
  • 1920: Would be 240 * 8, skipping the expected factor 6.

Common Pitfalls:Assuming constant ratio. Here the ratio itself increases by 1 each step.

Final Answer:1440

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