Can You Solve This Math Puzzle?

Social media has been abuzz with a math puzzle that has everyone scratching their heads: 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 x 0 = ?
On the surface, it may seem like a simple equation, but it has generated quite a debate online. Some people confidently claim that the answer is 0, while others are just as certain that it is 24. So, what is the correct answer, and why is this math problem causing so much discussion?

 

Understanding the Order of Operations

To solve this puzzle correctly, it’s important to remember the basic rules of mathematics, specifically the order of operations. These rules dictate the sequence in which operations should be performed to ensure consistent results.

The acronym PEMDAS helps us remember these rules:

  • Parentheses
  • Exponents
  • Multiplication
  • Division
  • Addition
  • Subtraction

According to PEMDAS, multiplication and division take precedence over addition and subtraction. In other words, in our equation, the multiplication part must be performed before any addition.

Solving the Puzzle

Let’s break down the equation step-by-step using the order of operations:

6 + 6 + 6 + 6 x 0 = ?

  1. Perform the Multiplication First:
    6 x 0 = 0
  2. Substitute the Result Back Into the Equation:
    6 + 6 + 6 + 0 = ?
  3. Perform the Addition:
    6 + 6 = 12
    12 + 6 = 18
    18 + 0 = 18

Therefore, the correct answer is 18.

Why Do People Get It Wrong?

This math puzzle exposes a common mistake people make when solving equations: ignoring the order of operations. Many assume that the sequence in which the numbers appear should determine how they are solved, which leads to the incorrect answer of 0.

Furthermore, the simplicity of the equation can be deceiving. Because it is a short equation, it is easy to overlook the importance of applying the correct mathematical rules, especially when solving it quickly in your head or under pressure.

The Bigger Picture

This math puzzle is more than just a viral social media challenge. It serves as a reminder of the importance of mathematical principles and how they apply to everyday problem-solving. Whether you are calculating a tip, balancing a budget, or solving a viral math problem, understanding the order of operations is crucial.

So, the next time you come across a math equation, remember PEMDAS and take a moment to ensure that you are solving it correctly. It could save you from making a common mistake!

SEE MORE

Related Posts

This morning was unlike any other, and I still can’t quite put into words why it hit me so hard. I’ve pulled a dead calf before. I stayed calm, helping an older vet who didn’t have the

This morning was unlike any other, and I still can’t quite put into words why it hit me so hard. I’ve pulled a dead calf before. I…

J.D. Vance Tells Greenland They’re Safer Under the U.S., Claims Other Nations Want to Take Over: ‘This Island Is Not Safe’

J.D. Vance addresses a crowd in Greenland, pitching the idea of a U.S. annexation. Photo: Jim Watson – Pool/Getty Vice President J.D. Vance backed President Donald Trump’s…

A pilot, a vet and a section ranger of Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park took to the sky on Sunday morning in search of buffalo for a disease testing operation (more info on this soon).

A pilot, a vet and a section ranger of Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park took to the sky on Sunday morning in search of buffalo for a disease testing…

Carrie Underwood Takes Legal Action Against ‘The View’: Suing Host for Insulting Her on Air and Demanding Show Shut Down!

In what could be described as a showdown of star power versus talk show drama, country music queen Carrie Underwood has taken the gloves off and slapped…

I PAID FOR A STRANGER’S GROCERIES TWO YEARS AGO—AND TODAY, I GOT THIS IN THE MAIL

It arrived with no return address — just my name, written in tidy cursive on the front of a plain envelope. The handwriting wasn’t familiar. Inside was…

This is Why Two People Are Buried in Graves at The Savannah Airport in The US

The Graves Beneath Savannah Airport – Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport has an unusual feature—two graves embedded in runway 10. They belong to Catherine and Richard Dotson, pioneers…

Leave a Reply

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