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Schoolchildren love this type of math problem: clear, straightforward, and seemingly easy to solve. However, when it comes to parents checking homework, it’s a different story! Lively discussions arise on the Internet, with everyone defending their own solution. But why can a seemingly basic equation cause so much confusion?
The challenge
The equation in question is: 6 ÷ 2(1 + 2) = ?
A question of logic and mathematical rules
At first glance, some might instinctively perform multiplication before division, but it is essential to respect the rules of precedence of operations, known by the acronym PEMDAS (Parenthesis, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction).
Let’s see it step by step:
Solving the parentheses first
1 + 2 = 3
The equation then becomes:
6 ÷ 2(3)
Priority to division and multiplication
Contrary to popular belief, multiplication and division have the same level of priority and must be solved from left to right.
So, we perform the division first:
6 ÷ 2 = 3
Then the multiplication:
3 × 3 = 9
The answer:
Continued on the next page
