In the following question, a number series is given with one missing term. Select the correct alternative from the options that will complete the series. 43, 44, 46, 47, 49, 49, 50, ?

Introduction / Context:
This number series question requires the learner to recognise an alternating pattern in the differences between consecutive terms. Instead of a single constant difference, the series uses a repeating sequence of differences. Identifying this repeating pattern makes it possible to determine the missing term.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Series: 43, 44, 46, 47, 49, 49, 50, ? - The eighth term is missing. - Differences between terms are not constant but appear to cycle.

Concept / Approach:
When the gap between successive terms is not constant, it can still follow a repeating or structured sequence. The method is to compute each difference and then look for repetition, for example a pattern like 1, 2, 1, 2, 0, and so on. After establishing this sequence, it can be extended to find the next difference and therefore the next term in the original series.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Compute consecutive differences. 43 to 44: difference = 1. 44 to 46: difference = 2. 46 to 47: difference = 1. 47 to 49: difference = 2. 49 to 49: difference = 0. 49 to 50: difference = 1. Step 2: The differences form the pattern 1, 2, 1, 2, 0, 1. Step 3: It is natural to continue this pattern with the next difference equal to 2. Step 4: Add this difference to the last known term: 50 + 2 = 52.

Verification / Alternative check:
We can confirm the pattern by grouping the differences into a cycle: (1, 2), (1, 2), (0, 1, 2). The appearance of 0 and then 1 suggests the sequence 1, 2 repeats with a slight delay. Extending the pattern gives the final required difference 2, which leads consistently to 52 as the next term without any contradiction in the series.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Option 54 would require a difference of 4 from 50, which does not align with the existing difference cycle. - Option 53 would need a difference of 3, again not present in the pattern. - Option 51 would use a difference of 1, but the established pattern after 1 is 2, not another 1.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes assume a fixed difference without actually calculating all gaps, causing them to miss subtle alternating structures. Another common error is to stop after inspecting only two or three differences. In many reasoning questions, the full pattern becomes clear only after examining all given terms carefully.

Final Answer:
The missing term in the series is 52, so the correct option is 52.