Explanation
To determine the pattern in the sequence 2, 6, 12, 36, 72, 216, we need to look at how each term relates to the next.
- From 2 to 6: 2 times 3 = 6
- From 6 to 12: 6 times 2 = 12
- From 12 to 36: 12 times 3 = 36
- From 36 to 72: 36 times 2 = 72
- From 72 to 216: 72 times 3 = 216
The pattern alternates between multiplying by 3 and 2.
Following this pattern, the next term after 216 would be:
216 times 2 = 432
So, the next number in the sequence is 432.