Answer to Question #338393 in Discrete Mathematics for Kevin

Question

Use inductive reasoning to predict the most probable next number in the following lists.

a) 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, ?

b) 2, 5, 10, 17, 26, ?

Answer 1

a. Study the sequence

We realize that we are supposed to add 5 to each number

5+5=10

10+5=15

15+5=20

20+5=25

25+5=30

Most probable next number =30

b. Study the sequence,

We realize that we are supposed to add odd numbers starting from 3 to the next.

2

2+3=5

5+5=10

10+7=17

17+9=26

26+11=37

Most probable next number =37