Which option would replace the question mark in the given figure?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → 14
Step 1: Look for patterns
- Check row-wise sums:
- Row 1: 7 + 21 + 8 = 36
- Row 3: 12 + 1 + 23 = 36
Rows 1 and 3 sum to 36.
- Row 2: 17 + ? + 5 = ?
If the same sum pattern holds:
$17+?+5=36 ⟹ ?=36−22=14$
Step 2: Verify column-wise sums (optional check)
- Column 1: 7 + 17 + 12 = 36
- Column 2: 21 + 14 + 1 = 36
- Column 3: 8 + 5 + 23 = 36
Columns sum to 36 as well. Perfect!
Answer: The missing number is 14