Directions: Find out the wrong number in each sequence 1, 2, 6, 15, 31, 56, 91
Aptitude
Odd Man Out and Series
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
-
A31
-
B91
-
C56
-
D15
Answer
Correct Answer: 91
Explanation
### Concept & Logic
The sequence is formed by adding squares of consecutive natural numbers.
### Step-by-Step Solution
Let's look at the differences between consecutive terms:
- $2 - 1 = 1 = 1^2$
- $6 - 2 = 4 = 2^2$
- $15 - 6 = 9 = 3^2$
- $31 - 15 = 16 = 4^2$
- $56 - 31 = 25 = 5^2$
- Let the next term be $x$.
- $x - 56$ should be equal to $6^2 = 36$.
- So, $x = 56 + 36 = 92$.
The given term is 91, which is incorrect. It should be 92.
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
When a series increases at an accelerating rate but not as fast as a geometric progression, checking the differences is a solid strategy. Here, the differences form a very familiar pattern of perfect squares.
### Common Pitfall
Simple calculation errors in finding the differences or recognizing the squares.
### Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is **91**.