Explanation:

- Let's break down the given number series: 512, 508, 500, 496, ?, and 484.

- To identify the pattern, calculate the difference between consecutive numbers:

- 512 to 508 is a decrease of 4.

- 508 to 500 is a decrease of 8.

- 500 to 496 is a decrease of 4.

- There seems to be a pattern: alternate differences of 4 and 8.

- Continuing this pattern:

- The next number after 496 should decrease by 8 (as 496 is an even-positioned number after 500 which previously decreased by 4).

- Therefore, 496 - 8 = 488.

- So, the number replacing the question mark is 488.

- ? The correct option is: Option 3: 488