The missing number in the series 5, 10, 17 is 26.
Understanding the Pattern
This number series follows a pattern where the difference between consecutive numbers increases by 2 each time. Let's break it down:
- 5 to 10: The difference is 5.
- 10 to 17: The difference is 7.
- 17 to x: The difference should be 9 (following the pattern of increasing by 2).
Therefore, to find the missing number (x), we add 9 to 17: 17 + 9 = 26.
Further Confirmation from References
Multiple references confirm this pattern and solution:
- The Quora thread "What is the missing number in the following sequence: 5, 10, 17, 26, 50" explicitly states that the missing number after 17 is 26, explaining the pattern of adding consecutive odd numbers (5, 7, 9...).
- Other sources like "Find next number in the series 2, 5, 10, 17, 26, 37, 50" show similar series, illustrating the same pattern of adding consecutive odd numbers. While these examples don't start at 5, they demonstrate the underlying principle.
Conclusion
The consistent pattern of adding consecutive odd numbers clearly indicates that 26 is the missing number.
