Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 47
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
You need to identify the single erroneous term in a steadily increasing series. These questions often use simple, steadily growing increments; one term will break the rule.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Examine first differences. For many such sequences, the differences themselves increase with a constant step. If the step is consistent except at one place, that term is the outlier.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
With the corrected 46, the next differences continue +3: 46→63 is +17 and 63→83 is +20, matching the intended pattern 5, 8, 11, 14, 17, 20.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Assuming Fibonacci-like addition without checking differences; not verifying the entire tail after a suspected correction.
Final Answer:
47
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