Next in series: 2, 4, 8, 16, ?

**The reasoning** Look at how each number relates to the one before it: - 2 × 2 = 4 - 4 × 2 = 8 - 8 × 2 = 16 - 16 × 2 = **32** This is a **geometric sequence** where each term is multiplied by a constant ratio (in this case, 2). You can also recognize the pattern as powers of 2: 2¹, 2², 2³, 2⁴, 2⁵ = 32. **Why the wrong options tempt you** **A) 20** — You might add 4 to 16, thinking it's simple addition. But check: does 2+4=4? No! The pattern isn't adding. **B) 24** — Perhaps you noticed differences increasing (2→4 is +2, 4→8 is +4) and guessed +8 next. That's overcomplicating it. **D) 48** — You might have multiplied 16 × 3 instead of × 2, mixing up the constant ratio. **Quick takeaway** For number series, always check: *"What operation (multiply? add? square?) turns each number into the next?"* — once you spot it, the pattern never lies!