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 1(2)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:
\[
1(2)5 + 5.5 = 18
\]
Thus, the missing number is \( 18 \).
Therefore, the correct answer is \( \boxed{18} \).