Question

Identify the next two numbers in the following sequence: 17, 20, 9, 12, 5, 6, 3, 2, ?, ?

• A. (0, 2)
• B. (1, 2)
• C. (2, 0)
• D. (2, 1)

Hint:

When identifying number patterns, look for alternating sequences of additions and subtractions to predict the next terms.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The given sequence is:
\[ 17, 20, 9, 12, 5, 6, 3, 2, ?, ? \] Let's analyze the pattern:
- From 17 to 20, the difference is +3.
- From 20 to 9, the difference is -11.
- From 9 to 12, the difference is +3.
- From 12 to 5, the difference is -7.
- From 5 to 6, the difference is +1.
- From 6 to 3, the difference is -3.
- From 3 to 2, the difference is -1.
Thus, the differences alternate between adding and subtracting. The pattern of differences is:
\[ +3, -11, +3, -7, +1, -3, -1 \] The next difference should be +1 (following the alternating pattern), so:
\[ 2 + 1 = 3 \] The next difference should be -3, so:
\[ 3 - 3 = 0 \] Thus, the next two numbers are \( \boxed{(2, 0)} \).