Problem 16

Explanation

The given number series is $72, x, 65, 60, 30, 27, y, 8$. Let's analyze the pattern:

The pattern involves alternating operations of subtraction and division.

1. Subtraction by decreasing odd numbers: $-7, -5, -3, -1$.
2. Division by increasing integers: $\div 1, \div 2, \div 3$.

Based on this pattern:

• The value of $x$ is obtained from $72 - 7 = 65$.
• The value of $y$ is obtained from $27 \div 3 = 9$.

So, the values of $x$ and $y$ respectively are $65$ and $9$.