Question

What is the missing number in the sequence? 

• A. 127
• B. 142
• C. 158
• D. 198
• E.

Hint:

Look for a relationship between the numbers in the sequence, either through subtraction, addition, or ratios.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The relationship in the first figure: - 101 - 38 = 63, 43 - 15 = 28 
- The sum is 63 and 28, which yields 91. 
In the second figure, 48 - 56 = 8, 34 - 184 = -150. 
- Hence, the missing number is 142. 

Answer 2

Instead of subtracting the numbers in the order they happen to be listed, pair the numbers that sit opposite each other in the figure and add the two differences.

1. Using the first figure as a check: its two opposite pairs give \( 101 - 38 = 63 \) and \( 43 - 15 = 28 \), and \( 63 + 28 = 91 \), which matches the number placed in the middle of that figure, confirming the rule.
2. Applying the same opposite-pair rule to the second figure: pairing 48 with 34, and 56 with 184, gives \( 48 - 34 = 14 \) and \( 184 - 56 = 128 \).
3. Adding the two differences: \( 14 + 128 = 142 \), which is the missing number.

Checking the remaining options, 127, 158 and 198, none of them equals the sum of the two opposite-pair differences, so they are ruled out.

Hence, the missing number is 142.