Number series — find the missing middle term. Sequence: 5824, 5242, ?, 4247, 3823

Introduction / Context:
Some four-digit series are built by treating the first two digits and the last two digits as separate subseries evolving in parallel. The challenge is to decode each pair’s rule and then merge them to reconstruct the missing term.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Sequence: 5824, 5242, ?, 4247, 3823.
• Observation: The first two digits (left pair) and last two digits (right pair) appear to follow independent patterns.
• We assume consistent pairwise evolution across the list.

Concept / Approach:
Split each term into LeftPair|RightPair. Track left pairs: 58, 52, __, 42, 38. Track right pairs: 24, 42, __, 47, 23. Identify simple arithmetic changes for each side (e.g., alternating decrements).

Step-by-Step Solution:
Left pairs: 58 → 52 (−6), 52 → 48 (−4), 48 → 42 (−6), 42 → 38 (−4). Pattern alternates −6, −4, −6, −4. Therefore, the missing left pair is 48. Right pairs given: 24 → 42 (+18), __ → 47, 47 → 23 (−24). The only option whose right pair fits a reasonable stepping from 42 and allows continuation to 47 is 56 (i.e., +14 from 42, then −9 to 47), which appears in 4856. Thus the missing term is 4856.

Verification / Alternative check:
Assemble the sequence with 4856: 5824, 5242, 4856, 4247, 3823. The left side maintains its alternating −6/−4 rhythm; the right side shows plausible step downs to reach 47 and then 23.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
4467/4718/5164: Their left pairs break the −6/−4 alternation (should be 48), so they cannot fit.

Common Pitfalls:
Focusing only on whole-number differences and missing the left/right pair decomposition that actually drives the pattern.

Final Answer:
4856