What is the next number in the series 8, 12, 24, 28, 56?

To determine the next number in the series 8, 12, 24, 28, 56, we first need to analyze the pattern of the sequence. Observing the numbers, we can identify that the series alternates between two operations: multiplying and adding.

Starting with the first number:

• From 8 to 12: 8 + 4 = 12.

• From 12 to 24: 12 × 2 = 24.
• From 24 to 28: 24 + 4 = 28.
• From 28 to 56: 28 × 2 = 56.

The next step involves continuing this alternating pattern. Following the last operation, which was multiplication by 2, the next operation should be adding 4 to 56.

Calculating this gives us: 56 + 4 = 60.

Thus, the next number in the series is 60. This reinforces the sustained additive and multiplicative pattern observed throughout the sequence, confirming that the appropriate response to the question is indeed 60.