Correct Option (c)
The pattern in the problem figures follows two distinct rules:
- The triangular figure rotates 120 degrees clockwise in each subsequent step.
- The arrow alternates its direction between pointing upwards and downwards.
Applying these rules to the third problem figure:
- A 120-degree clockwise rotation of the triangle from the third figure results in the triangle returning to the same orientation as the first problem figure.
- The arrow in the third figure points upwards. Following the alternating sequence (up, down, up), the arrow in the next figure must point downwards.
Option (c) accurately depicts the triangle in the orientation of the first problem figure and the arrow pointing downwards, consistent with both established patterns.
Incorrect Options:
Options (a), (b), and (d) do not adhere to the identified patterns. The triangular figures in these options do not represent a 120-degree clockwise rotation from the third problem figure. Furthermore, the arrow directions in options (a), (b), and (d) are inconsistent with the alternating up-down sequence, as they show the arrow pointing upwards when it should be pointing downwards.