In the following question, select the missing number from the given series. 5,…

Concept: Each term of the series is generated from the term before it by multiplying by a successively increasing integer (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ...) and then subtracting 1 from the product.

Application:

1. 5 × 2 − 1 = 9

2. 9 × 3 − 1 = 26

3. 26 × 4 − 1 = 103

4. 103 × 5 − 1 = 514

5. 514 × 6 − 1 = 3083

Cross-check: Substituting the derived value back into the next step (103 × 5 − 1 = 514) reproduces the given fifth term exactly, confirming the multiplier-and-subtract-1 rule holds across the whole series.

Result: The missing number is 103.