Number Series with Square Pattern – UGC NET Question

The given series consists of perfect squares of natural numbers. Specifically, 1² = 1, 2² = 4, 3² = 9, 4² = 16 and 5² = 25. The next term should therefore be 6², which is 36. This continues the clear pattern of successive squares.

Option A:
Option A, 30, does not correspond to any perfect square and breaks the pattern of square numbers. It would require a different rule that is not evident in the series.

Option B:
Option B, 32, is also not a perfect square and falls between 25 and 36 without a clear basis from squaring integers.

Option C:
Option C, 35, is again not a perfect square and therefore cannot follow the pattern of 1², 2², 3², 4² and 5².

Option D:
Option D, 36, is 6² and naturally follows 5² = 25 in the sequence of square numbers. It maintains the structure of the series and is therefore the correct next term.