Explanation:

- Let's analyze the series: 74, 62, 82, 78, 109, 159, 173, ?.

- The sequence seems to follow a pattern involving alternating differences.

- From 74 to 62, the difference is -12.

- From 62 to 82, the difference is +20.

- From 82 to 78, the difference is -4.

- From 78 to 109, the difference is +31.

- From 109 to 159, the difference is +50.

- From 159 to 173, the difference is +14.

- Notice that the differences are alternating between being significantly positive or smaller intervals.

- The next number after 173 is found by adding the difference from the most recent increase, which is 159 to 173. Calculating that increment pattern forwards, we would add 50 to 173.

- Therefore, the sequence should result in 173 + 50 = 223.

Option:1, 223 is the correct answer.