48/2(9+3) = ?

[XNavyDiver]

PEMDAS had more rules than what they originally taught you. You do what's inside the parentheses first and then outside. (9+3) = (12) and 48/2 = 24. Then you will multiply them together because you are left with 24(12) = 288. Simple!

If the equation were properly written out, in proper mathematical form, like on a dry erase board, would the equation be written as I have above? I think it would.

 

[Brew12]

The issue is that, as written, the equation could be either of two forms.

48
--------
2(9+3)

or

48
------ (9+3)
2

From the way the initial problem was presented, either of these could be correct and yet they come up with different answers.

 

[chipmunkofdoom2]

The answer is C, the equation is ambiguous as written and could be either.

 

[XNavyDiver]

The issue is that, as written, the equation could be either of two forms.

48
--------
2(9+3)

or

48
------ (9+3)
2

From the way the initial problem was presented, either of these could be correct and yet they come up with different answers.

Agreed. It's like one of those perspective drawings. Do you see the vase or a swan...

 

[MnFish1]

MacBook Pro says 2.

It is 2.... it cannot be interpreted any other way (the way I was taught) - but apparently thats not completely true.

Using PEMDAS. (paranthesis, Exponent, Multi, Divide, Add, Subtract) - which is a 'convention'. Using Order of Operations - it could be 288. According to multiple sources - either can be considered 'correct'.

48/2(9+3) =
(parentheses first)
48/2(12) =
(Multiplication next)
48/24 =
(Division next)
2