What is the Next Number in this Series?

  • Thread starter Aditya
  • Start date
In summary, after a lengthy discussion and multiple attempts at finding a pattern, it is clear that the given series does not have a clear and definite answer. While there were valid patterns and relationships found, none were deemed as the intended answer. Therefore, the correct answer is not one of the given choices.
  • #1
Aditya
8
0
Which number is next in this series:

10, 4, 3, 11, 15...?

a. 14
b. 1
c. 17
d.12


Hint: Not Math Related
 
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  • #2
The pattern is this: number A, two numbers that are 1 in distance that decrease, one number 1 in distance from number A that increases, then two more numbers that are 1 in distance that decrease.

The answer is a, 14.
 
  • #3
No, not really. Although the answer is correct, the reasoning behind it is incorrect. If you spell out each letter you can notice that for each number the number of letters increase by 1.
 
  • #4
can it be 14?
 
  • #5
lol..I got it in mathematical way. 10+11 = 21, 4+15 = 19 so 3+? = 17
 
  • #6
Wow. Cool. 3 right answers, with 3 completely independent rationales for reaching it.
 
  • #7
Correct answers are: a, b, c or d.

If I knew how to use lagrange to make polynomials to fit those points I'd prove it, too.
 
  • #8
Its easier than that Alkatran:

The polynomial [itex] y = (x - 10)(x - 4)(x - 3)(x - 11)(x - 15)(x - 14)[/itex] has zeros 10, 4, 3, 11, 15, and 14. This justifies the answer a. 14.

The polynomial [itex] y = (x - 10)(x - 4)(x - 3)(x - 11)(x - 15)(x - 1)[/itex]has zeros 10, 4, 3, 11, 15, and 1. This justifies the answer b. 1.

The polynomial [itex] y = (x - 10)(x - 4)(x - 3)(x - 11)(x - 15)(x - 17)[/itex] has zeros 10, 4, 3, 11, 15, and 17. This justifies the answer c. 17.

The polynomial [itex] y = (x - 10)(x - 4)(x - 3)(x - 11)(x - 15)(x - 12)[/itex] has zeros 10, 4, 3, 11, 15, and 12. This justifies the answer d. 12.

However, the correct answer to the puzzle was not one of the choices. You see the polynomial [itex] y = (x - 10)(x - 4)(x - 3)(x - 11)(x - 15)(x - \pi)[/itex] has zeros 10, 4, 3, 11, 15, and [itex]\pi[/itex]. So there is no correct answer.
 
Last edited:
  • #9
Aditya said:
Which number is next in this series:

10, 4, 3, 11, 15...?

a. 14
b. 1
c. 17
d.12

This is the only one that makes sense to me.
14
 
  • #10
Wow... It's amazing how many patterns and relationships you can find, and they are all valid. I got my answer the same way that z-component got his.
 
  • #11
I don't think anybody has a convincing stab at this puzzle (myself included). Solving a pattern requires that you find something that is obviously right. Just being able to construct something that fits the pattern isn't enough. It has to also be simple and clearly the intended answer. Only if the intended answer does not itself fit those criteria is the pattern flawed.
 
  • #12
Plus, aditya said this is NOT math-related. No polynomials allowed. That's not the real point of why the polynomial approach is not right, but it adds some extra irony.
 
  • #13
BicycleTree said:
I don't think anybody has a convincing stab at this puzzle (myself included). Solving a pattern requires that you find something that is obviously right. Just being able to construct something that fits the pattern isn't enough. It has to also be simple and clearly the intended answer. Only if the intended answer does not itself fit those criteria is the pattern flawed.

I agree. Finding a pattern may not mean that you've found the answer. I think this one was a pretty creative pattern.
 

FAQ: What is the Next Number in this Series?

What is the significance of predicting the next number in a sequence?

The ability to predict the next number in a sequence is crucial in many fields of science, such as mathematics, physics, and computer science. It allows for the identification of patterns and relationships, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the underlying principles and potential applications.

How do scientists determine the next number in a sequence?

There are various methods used by scientists to determine the next number in a sequence, depending on the type of sequence. Some common methods include finding the difference or ratio between consecutive numbers, using a formula or algorithm, or using mathematical concepts such as Fibonacci numbers or geometric progressions.

Can predicting the next number in a sequence be considered a type of math problem?

Yes, predicting the next number in a sequence falls under the category of mathematical problem-solving. It involves using mathematical principles, techniques, and logical reasoning to determine the pattern and predict the missing number.

Can computers predict the next number in a sequence?

Yes, computers are programmed to perform calculations and follow logical rules, making them capable of predicting the next number in a sequence. However, the accuracy of the prediction depends on the quality of the data and the algorithm used.

How is predicting the next number in a sequence relevant in real-world applications?

Predicting the next number in a sequence has many practical applications, such as forecasting stock prices, predicting weather patterns, and identifying trends in data analysis. It can also be used in cryptography, artificial intelligence, and other fields that require pattern recognition and prediction.

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