Find the wrong term in the number series: 3, 7, 16, 32, 56, 93, 142. Exactly one term violates a clean pattern; identify the incorrect term.

Introduction / Context:
Many number-series questions use steadily growing differences, often perfect squares. The task is to spot a single inconsistent entry.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Series: 3, 7, 16, 32, 56, 93, 142.
• Assume a clean, deterministic rule with one misprint or anomaly.

Concept / Approach:
The natural hypothesis is “add consecutive squares”: +2^2, +3^2, +4^2, +5^2, +6^2, +7^2.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Replacing 56 by 57 restores perfect square-step differences through the tail, confirming a single early slip.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
7, 16, and 32 each align exactly with the square-difference ladder. The inconsistency appears first at the fifth term only.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “nearby” values like 56 and 57; always compute the expected difference rather than eyeballing.

Final Answer:
56 is the wrong term (it should be 57 under +2^2, +3^2, +4^2, +5^2, +6^2, +7^2).