In the number series 7, 14, 16, 32, 34, 68, the next term is _______. – UGC NET Question

The series alternates between doubling and adding 2. We have 7×2 = 14, 14+2 = 16, 16×2 = 32, 32+2 = 34 and 34×2 = 68. Following this pattern, the next step should be "+2". Adding 2 to 68 gives 70. Thus, 70 is the correct next term in the alternation.

Option A:
Option A is 66, which would require subtracting 2 from 68 rather than adding. No earlier transition uses subtraction, so this choice violates the pattern. Therefore, 66 is not correct.

Option B:
Option B equals 70 and results from 68+2, preserving the alternation of ×2, +2 operations. The extended series 7, 14, 16, 32, 34, 68, 70 maintains the same structure. Hence, 70 is the valid continuation.

Option C:
Option C is 72, implying an increase of 4 from 68, which would change the "+2" part of the rule. There is no evidence of adding 4 in any previous step, so 72 cannot be accepted.

Option D:
Option D is 76, giving a jump of 8, which would introduce both a new magnitude and operation. This disrupts the clean alternating rule and therefore is not appropriate.