Explanation:

To solve the sequence, we need to observe the pattern in the given numbers.

- The series is: 2, 4, 7, 11, 16.

- First, find the differences between each pair of consecutive numbers:

- 4 - 2 = 2

- 7 - 4 = 3

- 11 - 7 = 4

- 16 - 11 = 5

- Notice the differences form a series: 2, 3, 4, 5.

- The next difference will be 6, continuing the pattern.

- Add 6 to the last number in the series, which is 16:

- 16 + 6 = 22

- Therefore, the next number in the series is 22.