Correct Answer:
C. 36
This question tests pattern recognition in number series. To find the next number, we must identify the underlying rule governing the sequence: 25, 30, 28, 33, 31, ___.
C) 36 is the correct answer. By examining the differences between consecutive numbers, a clear alternating pattern emerges:
- 25 + 5 = 30
- 30 - 2 = 28
- 28 + 5 = 33
- 33 - 2 = 31
The pattern is consistently adding 5, then subtracting 2. Following this sequence, the next operation after 31 - 2 is to add 5. Therefore, 31 + 5 = 36.
A) 32, B) 34, and D) 29 do not follow the established alternating +5, -2 pattern, making them incorrect distractors.