Directions: Find out the wrong number in each sequence 125, 127, 130, 135, 142, 153, 165
Aptitude
Odd Man Out and Series
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
-
A130
-
B142
-
C153
-
D165
Answer
Correct Answer: 165
Explanation
### Concept & Logic
Investigate the differences between successive terms to identify an underlying pattern.
### Step-by-Step Solution
Let's compute the differences:
- $127 - 125 = 2$
- $130 - 127 = 3$
- $135 - 130 = 5$
- $142 - 135 = 7$
- $153 - 142 = 11$
The sequence of differences is 2, 3, 5, 7, 11...
These are consecutive prime numbers.
The next prime number after 11 is 13.
So, the next term should be $153 + 13 = 166$.
The given term is 165, which is incorrect.
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Recognizing the sequence of prime numbers (2, 3, 5, 7, 11...) is crucial for many series questions. When differences are small, always check if they form a prime number series.
### Common Pitfall
Mistaking the differences for a pattern of odd numbers (3, 5, 7, 9...) and assuming the next difference should be 9. The presence of 2 at the beginning and 11 later confirms it's a prime number series, not just odd numbers.
### Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is **165**.