In the number series 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, the next term is _______. – UGC NET Question

The given terms are 1², 2², 3², 4² and 5², showing a sequence of consecutive perfect squares. Following this pattern, the next square should be 6². Computing 6² gives 36, so 36 must be the next term. This preserves the structure of consecutive squares.

Option A:
Option A is 30, which is not a perfect square of any integer. It does not follow from squaring the next whole number after 5. Thus, it fails to continue the pattern correctly.

Option B:
Option B is 32, which lies between 5² and 6² but is not itself a square of an integer. Because the rule involves exact squares in order, 32 cannot be accepted.

Option C:
Option C equals 36, which is 6² and follows naturally after 5² = 25. The extended series 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, 36 clearly shows consecutive squares of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Therefore, this choice correctly matches the pattern.

Option D:
Option D is 34, which again is not a perfect square and has no special relation to the square sequence here. Including 34 would break the logical connection between terms. Hence, it is not the correct answer.