Explanation:

- To solve this, identify the pattern between pairs of numbers.

- For the pair 7 : 42:

- Multiply 7 by 6 to get 42.

- For the pair 9 : 72:

- Multiply 9 by 8 to get 72.

- Applying the same pattern to 12:

- Multiply 12 by 12 (12 times 12 equals 144).

- Option 4, 144, fits this pattern correctly.

Option 4, 144, is the correct answer.