Number pattern — identify the odd term in the alternating pattern: 5, 16, 6, 16, 7, 16, 9

Question

Solve this multiple-choice question and choose the correct option.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context:This sequence alternates between a changing number and a fixed number. Detecting the alternating positions (odd/even indices) quickly reveals which entry is inconsistent. Given Data / Assumptions: Sequence: 5, 16, 6, 16, 7, 16, 9 Positions: 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th terms are the varying stream; 2nd, 4th, 6th terms are constant. Concept / Approach:Read terms in two interleaved subsequences: one fixed at 16, the other apparently increasing by 1 each occurrence. Any break in either subsequence marks the odd term. Step-by-Step Solution: Fixed subsequence (even positions): 16, 16, 16 — consistent.Varying subsequence (odd positions): 5 → 6 → 7 → expected 8.But the last odd-position term is 9, which skips 8.Therefore, 9 is the odd term. Verification / Alternative check: Corrected sequence would be 5, 16, 6, 16, 7, 16, 8. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 7 and 6 fit the +1 progression; “None of these” is incorrect because a clear outlier (9) exists. Common Pitfalls: Treating the series as a single arithmetic progression rather than two interwoven sub-series. Final Answer:9

Number pattern — identify the odd term in the alternating pattern: 5, 16, 6, 16, 7, 16, 9

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