Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: aabbb
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:In letter-series completion, multiple blanks usually mask a short repeating unit. Identifying the smallest repeating block makes it straightforward to test which fill restores uniform periodicity across the whole line.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Try each candidate, then partition the completed string into equal blocks. A 5-letter cadence is plausible because the distribution of a's and b's suggests clusters of two and three.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Insert option c = a a b b b into the five blanks (in order).2) The completed series aligns as repeating blocks ...[a a a a b][b b a a a][a b b b a]... which dovetail to a stable 5-letter rhythm once the whole line is considered.3) Other options introduce breaks (double transitions) that disrupt the cadence.Verification / Alternative check:Sliding a window of the candidate block across yields consistent overlaps with no contradiction.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:Testing only the first few positions and overlooking end-to-end periodicity, or inserting letters out of order.
Final Answer:aabbb
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