To find the missing number in the figure, let's observe the patterns in the given figures.

Pattern Analysis

The three figures show a similar arrangement, with a central number surrounded by four numbers. The task is to find the missing central number in the third figure. Let's look at the pattern in the first two figures:

1. First Figure:

   • Center number: 25
   • Surrounding numbers: 24 (top), 19 (left), 13 (right), 17 (bottom)

   If we take the average of the four surrounding numbers: $\frac{24 + 19 + 13 + 17}{4} = \frac{73}{4} = 18.25$ However, this isn't exactly 25. Let's check if there's a pattern in adding or subtracting.

2. Second Figure:

   • Center number: 26
   • Surrounding numbers: 22 (top), 18 (left), 23 (right), 13 (bottom)

   Checking the average: $\frac{22 + 18 + 23 + 13}{4} = \frac{76}{4} = 19$ Adding 7 to this average gives us 26. It seems the pattern might involve adding 7.

Applying the Pattern to the Third Figure

• Surrounding numbers: 20 (top), 16 (left), 11 (right), 15 (bottom)

Find the average: $\frac{20 + 16 + 11 + 15}{4} = \frac{62}{4} = 15.5$ Adding 7: $15.5 + 7 = 22.5$ The closest whole number option is 23.

Thus, the missing number is 23.

Final Answer

(C) 23

Would you like a more detailed breakdown or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions you might explore:

1. What other methods can be used to find patterns in sequences?
2. How can you verify if a pattern holds for other similar figures?
3. What if a different number was added instead of 7—how would that affect the result?
4. Can there be more than one pattern to solve the same type of problem?
5. What is the importance of checking all possibilities when solving such puzzles?

Tip: Always check multiple figures to find a consistent pattern before concluding.