Find the incorrect term in the following number series. Series: 24576, 6144, 1536, 386, 96, 24

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 386

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This decreasing series should follow repeated division by 4. A single number not equal to the previous term divided by 4 is the misfit.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Series: 24576, 6144, 1536, 386, 96, 24
  • Expected rule: next = current / 4.


Concept / Approach:
Verify each transition with division by 4. The term reached by a failed division is the incorrect one.


Step-by-Step Solution:
24576 / 4 = 6144 ✓ 6144 / 4 = 1536 ✓ 1536 / 4 = 384 (but the series shows 386 ✗) Continuing correctly: 384 / 4 = 96 ✓; 96 / 4 = 24 ✓.


Verification / Alternative check:
Replacing 386 with 384 makes the entire chain a perfect /4 ladder.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
96, 1536, 6144 all are exact quarters of their predecessors or produce correct successors by /4.


Common Pitfalls:
Looking for alternating operations when a single consistent division explains all transitions.


Final Answer:
386

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