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Find the odd number out in the sequence: 1, 4, 9, 16, 20, 36, 49.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 20

Explanation:

Problem restatement
From 1, 4, 9, 16, 20, 36, 49, choose the number that does not share the main property with the rest.


Given data

  • Sequence: 1, 4, 9, 16, 20, 36, 49

Concept / Approach
The terms are largely perfect squares of small integers; check each.


Step-by-step validation
1 = 12 4 = 22 9 = 32 16 = 42 20 ≠ n2 for integer n 36 = 62 49 = 72

All are perfect squares except 20.


Verification / Alternative
20 lies between 42=16 and 52=25, confirming it is not a perfect square.


Common pitfalls

  • Assuming every term is a square by pattern recognition without checking 20 individually.

Final Answer
20

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