What is the next term in the alternating number series: 5, 20, 8, 17, 11, 14, 14, ___?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. 11, following the second interleaved sequence (20, 17, 14, ...) with a step of -3
- Step 1: Separate into two interleaved sequences: Odd positions: 5, 8, 11, 14 (+3 each step). Even positions: 20, 17, 14, ? (-3 each step). Step 2. The next term is in the 8th position (even): 14 - 3 = 11. Answer: 11, following the second interleaved sequence (20, 17, 14, ...) with a step of -3. Why not the others: 17 repeats a past term; 10 subtracts 4.
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