Find the next number in the series 2, 8, 18, 32, 50, ___

Step-by-step solution

1. Calculate successive differences: $8-2=6$, $18-8=10$, $32-18=14$, $50-32=18$.
2. Observe that the differences increase by $4$ each time: $6,10,14,18$.
3. Predict the next difference: $18+4=22$.
4. Add this to the last term: $50+22=72$.
5. The next number in the series is $72$.

Concept tested: Detect pattern in increasing differences

Published 10 October 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked