Viral Math Problem Sparks Debate
The internet is a treasure trove of puzzles and debates, much like the well-known blue and gold dress that caused quite a confusion. A viral math problem, 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2), posted on Twitter in 2019, caused a similar uproar, with people puzzling over the correct answer and sparking heated arguments.
The Problem and the Debate
Back in 2019, a Twitter user posted a puzzling math problem: 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2). This seemingly simple equation ignited a massive debate on social media platforms.
Even the editors at Popular Mechanics, a lifestyle magazine, were not immune to the controversy. Their workplace chat buzzed with discussions and debates about the correct answer. One editor noted that according to the “PEMDAS” rule (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction), the equation should be solved following the order of operations.
The Two Interpretations
First Interpretation: According to PEMDAS, they first solved the parentheses: 2 + 2 = 4. This simplified the equation to 8 ÷ 2 x 4. Following this method, you perform the division first: 8 ÷ 2 = 4, leaving 4 x 4, which equals 16.
Second Interpretation: Others had a different take on PEMDAS. They solved the parentheses first but treated the result as still within the parentheses: 8 ÷ 2(4). They believed the multiplication inside the parentheses should take precedence, giving 8 ÷ (2 x 4), which equals 8 ÷ 8, resulting in 1.
Expert Opinions
Mathematicians and scientists didn’t stay away from the debate. Mike Breen from the American Mathematical Society stated that, strictly following the order of operations, the answer would be 16. However, he acknowledged that the equation’s written form was ambiguous.
Physics Professor Rhett Allain from Southeastern Louisiana University suggested that the question should have been written more clearly as 8/(2*(2+2)), which simplifies to 8/(2*4) resulting in 1.
Conclusion
This viral math problem underscores the importance of clear mathematical notation. While expert opinions tend to favor 16, the ambiguity in the equation leaves many still doubtful. What do you think is the correct answer? Is it 1 or 16? Share your thoughts and discuss this intriguing problem with your friends and family!
