Mathematician gets plenty of feedback after solving “head scratcher” math equation online

Have you ever found yourself so bored that you turned to a challenging math problem for entertainment?

Well, here’s a brain-teaser that has been making rounds on social media every few years, stumping both kids and adults alike.

This isn’t just any math problem; it’s one that has sparked global debates about the right way to solve it.

The problem in question is the seemingly simple equation: 6÷2(1+2). Despite its straightforward appearance, it has led to a variety of answers, causing confusion and debate.

SOURCE:CANVA

The YouTube channel MindYourDecision sheds light on this by explaining, “I explain how to get the correct answer by using the modern interpretation of the order of operations.

I also explain how you would get a different answer under historical usage of the division symbol.”

To tackle this problem, we need to revisit the PEMDAS rule, which stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, and Addition/Subtraction.

Remember, when operations have the same precedence, we solve them from left to right.

So, how do we solve 6÷2(1+2)? The answer is 9, and here’s why.

Keeping PEMDAS in mind, we first solve the equation inside the parentheses: 1 + 2 = 3.

This changes our equation to 6÷2×3.

Since multiplication and division are of the same priority in PEMDAS, we solve from left to right.

First, we do 6÷2 = 3, and then 3 x 3 = 9.

Voilà! The answer is 9.

SOURCE:CANVA

Interestingly, MindYourDecisions also explored an older method from a 1917 textbook.
In this approach, after solving the parentheses, you would multiply 2 and 3 first, resulting in 6÷6 = 1.

However, this method is outdated, and the correct modern interpretation gives us 9 as the answer.

This math problem isn’t just a way to pass time; it’s a brain exercise that enhances strategic solving skills.

It’s a fun and engaging way to challenge yourself and others.

Did you figure out the correct answer on your first try?
It’s a great example of how math can be both fun and perplexing.

If you enjoyed unraveling this math mystery, why not share it with friends and family? It’s a great way to engage others in a bit of intellectual fun.

Related Posts

WATCH: Sunny Hostin Forced To Read Legal Note On “The View,” Fact-Check Herself About Matt Gaetz Claims

In an entertaining, if still frustrating, incident on ABC’s “The View,” program co-host Sunny Hostin had to read out a legal note in which she noted that…

Whoopi Goldberg Gets Heckled Live On Air During Taping Of ‘The View’

The tide is turning against the partisan, insufferable know-nothing hosts of The View, as a courageous audience member blasted Whoopi Goldberg at the beginning of taping for…

Fox Anchor Breaks Down As He Revealed Personal Family Experience

OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion. A Fox Business anchor broke down in tears live on the air as he recounted a…

Ellen tto flee America following Trump victory, report says

Ellen DeGeneres and wife Portia de Rossi are reportedly ditching America and running to England because they’re mad about Donald Trump winning the election over Kamala Harris….

Travis Kelce declared his departure from Elon Musk’s “Hate Machine” X app, referring to it as a “toxic waste dump” following his hurtful and scathing remarks on Taylor Swift.

Travis Kelce Exits X After Scathing Remarks About Taylor Swift: Slams Elon Musk’s ‘Hate Machine’ In a dramatic turn of events, NFL star Travis Kelce has announced…

Chiefs Coach Joins Coach Tomlin in Banning Black National Anthem: ‘One Flag, One Anthem’

The decision of the Kansas City Chiefs’ coach to join Pittsburgh Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin in opposing the playing of the Black National Anthem before NFL…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *