What is the missing number in the sequence: 1, 3, 5, 7, __?

The sequence provided is that of odd numbers starting from 1. The pattern consists of consecutive odd integers: 1, 3, 5, 7. To find the missing number, we recognize that odd numbers increase by 2. After 7, the next odd number is obtained by adding 2, resulting in 7 + 2 = 9.

The correct answer is 9 because it follows logically from the established pattern of the sequence, ensuring that the series remains consistent with the pattern of increasing odd numbers.