In the sequence 1, 2, 4, 8, what is the next likely number?

The sequence given is 1, 2, 4, 8, which represents a pattern where each number is multiplied by 2 to produce the next number. Starting from 1, when you multiply by 2, you get 2. Multiplying 2 by 2 gives you 4, and multiplying 4 by 2 results in 8. Continuing this pattern, the next step involves multiplying 8 by 2, which equals 16.

This consistent multiplication by 2 clearly identifies 16 as the next number in the sequence. The other choices do not follow the doubling pattern established in the sequence, making them less likely candidates for the next number.