Identify the wrong number in the division-by-4 sequence: 40960, 10240, 2560, 640, 200, 40, 10

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 200

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
When each term equals the previous term divided by a constant factor, one erroneous division immediately breaks the rhythm. Here, division by 4 appears to be the governing rule.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Sequence: 40960, 10240, 2560, 640, 200, 40, 10.
  • Hypothesis: each term = previous term / 4.


Concept / Approach:
Check each ratio. A single ratio that is not 1/4 highlights the wrong term. If a wrong intermediate is corrected, the remainder should fall into place automatically.


Step-by-Step Solution:
10240 = 40960 / 4 (OK)2560 = 10240 / 4 (OK)640 = 2560 / 4 (OK)Next should be 640 / 4 = 160 (but given: 200 ✗)40 = 160 / 4 ⇒ would be correct after fixing 16010 = 40 / 4 ⇒ consistent


Verification / Alternative check:
With 160 in place of 200, the series becomes a perfect divide-by-4 chain. No other constant factor explains the earlier steps so precisely.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 640 / 2560 / 40 are each exactly one quarter of the prior term; they follow the rule.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Treating the middle anomaly as a pattern change; in clean constant-ratio series, a single error is typical.


Final Answer:
200

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