Classification – Odd one out (parity) Exactly one of the following integers is even/odd-inconsistent with the others. Identify the outlier based on parity and mark it as the odd one out.

Introduction / Context:
Parity (even vs odd) is the most elementary but still legitimate basis for many classification questions. Because parity is glance-detectable from the last digit, it offers a near-instant path to the odd element when three values share one parity and one value has the opposite.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Set: 426, 369, 279, 159
• Property examined: parity (even/odd)

Concept / Approach:
A number is even if its last digit is 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8; otherwise it is odd. Scan the terminal digits and tally the parities to find the minority class (the odd one out).

Step-by-Step Solution:
426 → ends with 6 → even.369 → ends with 9 → odd.279 → ends with 9 → odd.159 → ends with 9 → odd.

Verification / Alternative check:
Basic divisibility by 2: only 426 is divisible by 2. Therefore, 426 is the sole even number among three odds.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 369: Odd like two others; not unique.
• 279: Odd like two others; not unique.
• 159: Odd like two others; not unique.
• None of these: There is a clear even outlier (426).

Common Pitfalls:
Overcomplicating with factors of 3 or 9. While those patterns exist, parity alone yields a unique classification here and is the intended quick route.

Final Answer:
426