Odd-man-out in multiplicative pattern with half-step multipliers: Identify the inconsistent term in the sequence: 4, 2, 3.5, 7.5, 26.25, 118.125

Introduction / Context:
The intended pattern multiplies by successive half-integers: ×0.5, ×1.5, ×2.5, ×3.5, ×4.5, ... Starting from 4, this determines each following term uniquely. The given list contains one term that violates this rule.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Start = 4.
• Multipliers should be: 0.5, 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5.

Concept / Approach:
Apply the multipliers stepwise and compare with the provided terms to see where the mismatch occurs.

Step-by-Step Solution:
4 × 0.5 = 2 ✅2 × 1.5 = 3.0 (but list shows 3.5 ❌)3.0 × 2.5 = 7.5 ✅7.5 × 3.5 = 26.25 ✅26.25 × 4.5 = 118.125 ✅

Verification / Alternative check:
All later terms align perfectly once the second term is corrected to 3.0; hence 3.5 is the odd-man-out.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
26.25 and 118.125 obey ×3.5 and ×4.5; 2 matches ×0.5 from 4.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming a single common ratio (geometric progression); here ratios change by +1.0 each step.

Final Answer:
3.5