Find the incorrect term in the following number series. Series: 16, 22, 30, 45, 52, 66

Introduction / Context: This checks whether you can detect steadily increasing step sizes. When step sizes should rise by a fixed amount, any term that disrupts that growth is incorrect.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Series: 16, 22, 30, 45, 52, 66
• Intended steps likely increase by 2 each time.

Concept / Approach: Compute differences and see if they form an arithmetic progression. If so, regenerate the expected term and compare.

Step-by-Step Solution: Target step pattern: +6, +8, +10, +12, +14. Compute with this pattern: 16 + 6 = 22; 22 + 8 = 30; 30 + 10 = 40 (but the series shows 45 ✗); 40 + 12 = 52; 52 + 14 = 66. Hence, the fourth term should be 40, not 45.

Verification / Alternative check: Substituting 40 for 45 yields consistent differences of 6, 8, 10, 12, 14.

Why Other Options Are Wrong: 30, 52, 66 all align with the intended difference progression and therefore are not wrong.

Common Pitfalls: Accepting irregular jumps as random rather than testing for an orderly increase in step size.

Final Answer: 45