Find wrong number in series: 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, 32, 49, 64

Concept: A series of perfect squares follows n2 for consecutive natural numbers n = 1, 2, 3, … — each term equals the square of the next integer in order.

Application: Compute the square for each position and compare it against the given series 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, 32, 49, 64.

1. 12 = 1

2. 22 = 4

3. 32 = 9

4. 42 = 16

5. 52 = 25

6. 62 = 36

7. 72 = 49

8. 82 = 64

The sixth term of this sequence should be 36, but the given series shows 32 in its place.

Cross-check: 32 is not a perfect square — it lies strictly between 52 = 25 and 62 = 36 — confirming it breaks the pattern, while every other term matches its expected square exactly.

Answer: 32 is the wrong number in the series.