Square-increment series — find the missing term: Complete the series: 20, 21, 25, 34, 50, ?, 111

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 75

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This sequence adds consecutive perfect squares to generate the next term. Once identified, simply continue the square increments to fill the blank.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Series: 20, 21, 25, 34, 50, ?, 111
  • Differences: +1, +4, +9, +16, +25, +36


Concept / Approach:
Recognize that the increments are 1^2, 2^2, 3^2, 4^2, 5^2, 6^2. Insert the 5^2 step to find the missing value, then confirm the final step uses 6^2 to reach 111.



Step-by-Step Solution:
50 + 5^2 = 50 + 25 = 7575 + 6^2 = 75 + 36 = 111



Verification / Alternative check:
Earlier steps: 20→21 (+1), 21→25 (+4), 25→34 (+9), 34→50 (+16), consistent.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
65 or 70 would break the final sum to 111 using the 6^2 increment.



Common Pitfalls:
Using linear differences; here differences themselves follow a square sequence.



Final Answer:
75

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