Math Question for Kids Sparks Heated Debate – People Can’t Agree on the Right Answer
A seemingly simple math problem has taken the internet by storm, igniting a heated debate among social media users. While it was originally intended for kids, even adults are struggling to agree on the correct answer. Some people are confident in their solutions, while others argue fiercely that they’ve solved it correctly—only to be met with different answers from others.
The Question That Started It All
The viral math problem, which first surfaced on social media, reads something like this:
8 ÷ 2(2 + 2) = ?
At first glance, it may seem straightforward, but it has led to confusion because of the order of operations. Some people arrive at 1, while others get 16—and both sides are convinced they are right.
Breaking Down the Problem
To understand why there’s so much disagreement, let’s go step by step according to the standard order of operations, known as PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)).
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Solve the parentheses first:
2 + 2 = 4, so the equation becomes:
8 ÷ 2(4) -
Now, this is where the confusion starts. Should it be interpreted as:
- (8 ÷ 2) × 4
- 8 ÷ (2 × 4)
Depending on how one interprets the notation, two different answers emerge:
Why People Get Different Answers
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If you follow PEMDAS strictly and treat division and multiplication as equal priority (solving from left to right), then:
8 ÷ 2 = 4, then 4 × 4 = 16 → Answer: 16 -
However, some argue that the notation suggests implicit multiplication (when a number is placed directly next to parentheses, it should be done first). That means treating 2(4) as one term and solving 8 ÷ (2 × 4) = 8 ÷ 8 = 1 → Answer: 1
What’s the Correct Answer?
Most modern math conventions and calculators follow the left-to-right rule for division and multiplication, meaning 16 is the correct answer according to PEMDAS. However, older textbooks and certain teaching methods might suggest prioritizing implicit multiplication, leading to 1 instead.
The Debate Rages On
This math problem is a perfect example of how small notation differences can lead to big disagreements. It also highlights how math rules have evolved over time. Social media has been filled with arguments, with some people insisting that they remember learning a different rule in school.
Conclusion
While 16 is the most widely accepted answer, this viral math question has reminded everyone how important clarity in mathematical notation is. It also proves that even simple problems can spark huge debates!
