Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 29
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The sequence alternates between adding 2 and adding 4, a common construction that mostly tracks prime-like steps but includes a non-prime deliberately to cue attention to the step sizes rather than primality.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Compute successive differences: 13 − 11 = 2; 17 − 13 = 4; 19 − 17 = 2; 23 − 19 = 4; 25 − 23 = 2. The pattern clearly alternates +2, +4, +2, +4, +2, so the next difference should be +4.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Apply the alternating increment: after +2 to reach 25, next add +4. Next term = 25 + 4 = 29. Check continuity across all terms to ensure the alternation is unbroken.
Verification / Alternative check:
Reconstructing: 11 (+2) 13 (+4) 17 (+2) 19 (+4) 23 (+2) 25 (+4) 29 confirms the pattern.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
26/27/37: Do not equal 25 + 4; they would violate the +2/+4 alternation.
Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “next prime” after 23 and being confused by 25; the rule is increments, not primality.
Final Answer:
29
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