Which of the following numbers will replace the question mark (?) in the given series?
7, 18, 34, 72, 142, ?

7, 18, 34, 72, 142, ?

Logic: Multiply the previous number by 2, then alternately add 4 (for odd steps) and subtract 2 (for even steps).

7×2+4 = 14+4 = 18

18×2−2 = 36−2 = 34

34 × 2 + 4 = 68+4 =72

72 × 2−2 = 144−2 = 142

142×2+4 = 284+4 = 288

So, the number that will replace the question mark in the given series is 288​

Thus, correct answer is (b) ​