In the number series −2, 2, 6, 10, the next term is _______. – UGC NET Question

Consecutive terms differ by 4: 2 − (−2) = 4, 6 − 2 = 4 and 10 − 6 = 4. This shows an arithmetic progression with common difference 4. Adding 4 to the last term 10 gives 14. Therefore, 14 is the correct next term in the sequence.

Option A:
Option A is 12, which is only 2 more than 10 and does not match the consistent difference of 4. Using 12 would reduce the step size at the end without justification. Hence, it cannot be correct.

Option B:
Option B equals 14, obtained by 10 + 4, which continues the established rule perfectly. The full series −2, 2, 6, 10, 14 keeps the same constant increase each time. This makes 14 the only value that preserves the pattern.

Option C:
Option C is 16, giving a difference of 6 from 10. No such difference appears earlier in the series, so this new step would break the arithmetic structure. Therefore, 16 is not the correct continuation.

Option D:
Option D is 18, which would involve adding 8 to 10 and drastically changing the rate of increase. Since the series has shown only jumps of 4, this option contradicts that behaviour and must be rejected.