In the number series 5, 14, 27, 44, 65, the next term is _______. – UGC NET Question

The differences between consecutive terms are 9, 13, 17 and 21. These differences form an arithmetic sequence increasing by 4 each time. Continuing this rule, the next difference should be 25. Adding 25 to the last term 65 gives 90, which fits perfectly with the established pattern. Thus, 90 is the term that correctly continues the series.

Option A:
Option A gives 90, which is 25 more than 65 and retains the difference progression 9, 13, 17, 21, 25. This keeps the second-level pattern of increasing differences completely intact. Therefore, 90 is the most appropriate choice for the next term in the series.

Option B:
Option B provides 88, which corresponds to a difference of 23 from 65 and does not match the expected increase of 4 in the difference sequence. Using 23 would break the systematic growth in the differences. Hence, 88 is not consistent with the observed pattern.

Option C:
Option C suggests 92, implying a difference of 27 from 65, which overshoots the expected next difference of 25. This disrupts the neat arithmetic progression in the differences. Therefore, 92 cannot be regarded as the correct continuation.

Option D:
Option D proposes 94, giving a difference of 29 from 65, moving even further away from the expected 25. Such a jump fails to respect the structure of the series and makes the pattern irregular. Thus, 94 is not a valid answer.