LifestyleAn elementary level mathematical riddle baffles many

An elementary level mathematical riddle baffles many

Here's a mathematical riddle theoretically within the reach of every primary school student. Yet, sometimes even adults fail to solve it. Are you up for the challenge?

A riddle at elementary school level
A riddle at elementary school level
Images source: © Adobe Stock

Mathematics, be it at the elementary or high school level, or even in technical colleges, often poses a daunting challenge for many. Supporting this notion, here's an equation involving multiplication, subtraction, and addition that baffles many, including adults. Let's see if you can crack it.

A conundrum involving four fives

This mathematical operation, encompassing multiplication, addition, and subtraction, may appear straightforward initially. It falls under the mathematical capabilities of primary school students. However, many still find it perplexing.

Wondering why? The equation involves four numbers of 5 and the operations linking them. The trick is to know the correct order in which to execute these operations. Here's where it gets tricky. Do you remember this from your maths lessons?

Here's a quick refresher if you don't:

  1. Begin with exponentiation and root extraction,
  2. Proceed with multiplication and division next,
  3. Finally, tackle operations with addition and subtraction.

Now let's look into the given mathematical puzzle:

5 - 5 x 5 + 5 = ?

Have you cracked it correctly?

Were you able to solve the equation correctly? Well done, if so! If not, let's help you by demonstrating how to reach the solution step-by-step.

Start with the multiplication operation - 5 x 5 = 25. Then proceed with the subtraction, and finally, the addition.

So, 5 - 25 + 5 equals -15.

The correct answer to our riddle, therefore, is -15. Is that what you deduced?

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