LifestyleMathematical puzzle dividing the internet: Can you solve this elementary school equation?

Mathematical puzzle dividing the internet: Can you solve this elementary school equation?

Online mathematical and logical puzzles are incredibly popular. They offer an avenue to test our quick-thinking capabilities and knowledge while practically applying these skills.

Mathematical puzzles cause a lot of problems even for adults.
Mathematical puzzles cause a lot of problems even for adults.
Images source: © Adobe Stock

Feb 7, 2024 | updated: 4:03 AM EST, March 7, 2024

Only a handful solve this puzzle. Can you determine the result?

A particular type of puzzle that seems straightforward, but often stumps people, deals with the order of operations. One such task that divides internet users is a straightforward equation. Theoretically, even an elementary school student should solve it. Still, many people struggle to deliver the correct result.

8 : 4 (1+1) = ?

The answers most frequently proposed online are 1 and 4, leading to internet users hotly debating which result is correct. Of course, only one side can be right - the correct solution to the presented equation is 4.

This task is simple. Let's break down the solution

So, how can one solve this task? The essential thing to keep in mind is the order of operations. Remember to perform the operation in brackets first: 1+1 equals 2. Then, you undertake the operations in order: divide first, then multiply. Hence, 8:4 equals 2, and 2*2 equals 4.

The challenges aren't limited to online puzzles. Sometimes, even tasks in elementary school textbooks stump adults. This confusion often stems from unclear instructions, leading to the possibility of multiple solutions.

However, multiple solutions do not apply to the task discussed above, which has internet users divided- the order of operations remains consistent.

© essanews.com
·

Downloading, reproduction, storage, or any other use of content available on this website—regardless of its nature and form of expression (in particular, but not limited to verbal, verbal-musical, musical, audiovisual, audio, textual, graphic, and the data and information contained therein, databases and the data contained therein) and its form (e.g., literary, journalistic, scientific, cartographic, computer programs, visual arts, photographic)—requires prior and explicit consent from Wirtualna Polska Media Spółka Akcyjna, headquartered in Warsaw, the owner of this website, regardless of the method of exploration and the technique used (manual or automated, including the use of machine learning or artificial intelligence programs). The above restriction does not apply solely to facilitate their search by internet search engines and uses within contractual relations or permitted use as specified by applicable law.Detailed information regarding this notice can be found  here.