Let’s analyze the pattern in the given numbers:
- From 0.5 to 2, the increment is 1.5.
- From 2 to 4.5, the increment is 2.5.
- From 4.5 to 8, the increment is 3.5.
- From 8 to 12.5, the increment is 4.5.
The pattern for the increments is increasing by 1 each time (1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5...).
So, the next increment should be 5.5:
\[
12.5 + 5.5 = 18
\]
Thus, the missing number is \( 18 \).
Therefore, the correct answer is \( \boxed{18} \).