In mathematics, there is a simple rule that we have all learned at some point ( and somewhat forgotten! ):
We solve operations in the following order:
- What is in the parentheses
- Then the multiplications and divisions , from left to right
- Finally, addition and subtraction
Let’s apply this rule to our famous expression:
6 ÷ 2(1 + 2)
= 6 ÷ 2 × 3 (since 1 + 2 = 3)
And here, we read from left to right:
6 ÷ 2 = 3, then
3 × 3 = 9
So, the correct answer is 9, not 1!
Why do we miss this subtlety?
See more on the next page
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See more on the next page
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