16) B
Let difference between r and r + 1 = M
Let difference between r + 1 and r + 2 = N
Let difference between r + 2 and r + 3 = O
The sum of the difference = 126
M + N + O = 126
By understanding the example given in the question, we can infer that:
N = M + 1
O = N + 1
Since N = M + 1,
O = M + 1 + 1 = M + 2
M + N + O = 126
M + M + 1 + M + 2 = 126
3M + 3 = 126
3M = 123
M = 41
M is the difference between rth and (r + 1)th triangular number.
From the example described in the question, we know that:
Difference = initial triangular number + 1.
E.g. Between 2nd triangular number and 3rd triangular number, difference = 3
Initial triangular number is the 2nd triangular number.
Therefore,
M = (rth triangular number) + 1
41 – 1 = rth triangular number
rth triangular number = 40
So the answer is B.