Find the Outlier: Which Number Doesn't Belong in 23, 27, 21, 32?

Number Classification with Odd/Even Properties

Which number is the odd one out?

23,27,21,32 23,27,21,32

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Step-by-step written solution

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1

Understand the problem

Which number is the odd one out?

23,27,21,32 23,27,21,32

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Identify if each given number is odd or even.

  • Step 2: Compare and determine the number with the different characteristic.

  • Step 3: Conclude the analysis with the number that is distinct.

Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: Check if each number is odd or even by checking divisibility by 2.
- 23: Dividing by 2 gives a remainder, hence it is odd.
- 27: Dividing by 2 gives a remainder, so it is also odd.
- 21: Dividing by 2 results in a remainder, thus it is odd.
- 32: Dividing by 2 gives no remainder, therefore it is even.

Step 2: Compare the results:
Three numbers (23, 27, 21) are odd, while one number (32) is even.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 32 32 .

3

Final Answer

32 32

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Odd numbers leave remainder 1 when divided by 2
  • Technique: Check divisibility: 32 รท 2 = 16 (no remainder)
  • Check: Count each type: 3 odd numbers, 1 even number โœ“

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Assuming the largest number is always the outlier
    Don't pick 32 just because it's biggest = wrong reasoning! Size doesn't determine odd/even status. Always check each number's divisibility by 2 to find the real mathematical difference.

Practice Quiz

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What number do the blue squares below represent?

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

How do I quickly tell if a number is odd or even?

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Look at the last digit! If it ends in 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8, it's even. If it ends in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9, it's odd. Much faster than dividing!

What if there are two even numbers and two odd numbers?

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Then you need to look for a different pattern! Try checking if they're prime numbers, multiples of 3, or have another mathematical property that makes one stand out.

Why is 32 the odd one out and not 21?

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Because we're looking for the minority group. Since there are 3 odd numbers (23, 27, 21) and only 1 even number (32), the even number is the outlier.

Could this problem have multiple correct answers?

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Usually no! In math, there's typically one clear pattern that makes sense. However, always read the question carefully to understand what type of difference you're looking for.

What other patterns might I need to check for?

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  • Prime vs composite numbers
  • Multiples of certain numbers (like 3, 5, or 10)
  • Number of digits
  • Sum of digits

Start with odd/even since it's the most common!

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