Decreasing number series analysis: 325, 259, 204, 160, 127, 105, ? — determine the next value by inspecting the changing subtractions between adjacent terms.
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A94
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B96
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C98
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D100
Answer
Correct Answer: 94
Explanation
Introduction / Context:This decreasing series tests your ability to spot a clean pattern in successive subtractions. Many such sequences reduce by steadily shrinking gaps, often by a fixed amount each step.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Sequence: 325, 259, 204, 160, 127, 105, ?
- We expect a consistent rule in the differences.
Concept / Approach:Compute the differences term-by-term and observe how the subtraction amount changes. If the “step-down” itself follows a simple pattern, extend that to predict the next reduction and, thus, the next term.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Differences: 325 − 259 = 66; 259 − 204 = 55; 204 − 160 = 44; 160 − 127 = 33; 127 − 105 = 22.The subtractions form: 66, 55, 44, 33, 22 — a pattern decreasing by 11 each time.Next subtraction = 22 − 11 = 11.Next term = 105 − 11 = 94.Verification / Alternative check:Following the “reduce by 11” rule backward and forward keeps the pattern consistent, confirming 94.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- 96, 98, 100 would correspond to subtractions of 9, 7, or 5 from 105, which break the steady minus-11 pattern.
Common Pitfalls:Trying to apply ratios or alternating rules before checking a straightforward arithmetic progression in the differences. Always test the simplest hypothesis first.
Final Answer:94