Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 59
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
When a numeric set lacks a clear arithmetic pattern, examine number-theory features like parity, divisibility, and primality. If exactly one term is prime while the rest are composite, the prime is the natural odd-man-out.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Test primality: a prime has no factors other than 1 and itself. Composite numbers factor into smaller integers. We look for a unique prime amidst composites, considering that 19 at the start might tempt but is not among the provided options to select (we must choose from the listed answer choices).
Step-by-Step Solution:
26 = 2 * 13 ⇒ composite.33 = 3 * 11 ⇒ composite.46 = 2 * 23 ⇒ composite.74 = 2 * 37 ⇒ composite.91 = 7 * 13 ⇒ composite.59 is prime (not divisible by 2, 3, 5, 7; √59 ≈ 7.68, so only small primes need testing).
Verification / Alternative check:
Among the provided options (26, 33, 46, 59, 74), only 59 cannot be factored. Therefore 59 stands apart.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
26, 33, 46, and 74 are all composite; each shares the majority property and thus cannot be the odd one out.
Common Pitfalls:
Overlooking that the selectable answers differ from the full list and misidentifying a different prime not present among the options. Always select from the given choices.
Final Answer:
59
Discussion & Comments