Finding the Next Number in a Pattern

A pattern of numbers follows a specific rule. The first four numbers in the pattern are 2, 5, 10, and 17. To find the next number in the sequence, we need to determine the relationship between the numbers.

Observe how each number is generated:

• The first number is 2.
• The second number is obtained by adding 3 to the first number (2 + 3 = 5).
• The third number is obtained by adding 5 to the second number (5 + 5 = 10).
• The fourth number is obtained by adding 7 to the third number (10 + 7 = 17).

It seems that the amount added to each consecutive number is increasing by 2. Based on this pattern, what will be the next number in the sequence?