Find the missing term in the series and choose the correct option: 4, 8, 24, 60, ?, 224. Hint: differences are squares of even numbers.

Introduction / Context:
This completion problem relies on recognizing a pattern in successive differences, specifically perfect squares of even integers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Series: 4, 8, 24, 60, ?, 224.
• Expect regular, easily described differences.

Concept / Approach:
Compute differences and check for square numbers: 8 − 4, 24 − 8, 60 − 24, …

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
The even-square progression is uniquely neat and yields a self-consistent completion.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
178, 96, 109, 141 do not preserve the even-square sequence; only 124 would, but it is not among the listed options.

Common Pitfalls:
Trying multiplicative rules; here, additive square steps are more natural.

Final Answer:
The correct missing value is 124, which is not present among the options; hence None of these.