A New Math Puzzle Ignites the Internet: The 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2) Debate

The internet loves a good puzzle, and a new math problem has everyone talking. Remember the viral debate over the blue and black dress? Now, a math equation is causing similar confusion: 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2). What looks like a simple problem has sparked intense debates across social media and workplaces, even drawing in mathematicians.

A Viral Challenge

It began in 2019 when a Twitter user posted the equation 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2), asking followers for the solution. This seemingly straightforward problem quickly became a major point of contention.

Divided Opinions at Popular Mechanics

The editors at Popular Mechanics magazine found themselves split over the correct answer. Using the “PEMDAS” rule (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction), one group argued that the answer is 16. They followed the order of operations, solving 2 + 2 first, getting 8 ÷ 2 x 4, which simplifies to 4 x 4, resulting in 16.

The Case for 1

Another group at Popular Mechanics argued for the answer being 1. They also used PEMDAS but interpreted the equation differently. After solving 2 + 2, they treated it as 8 ÷ 2(4), suggesting that multiplication takes precedence over division, leading to 8 ÷ 8, which equals 1.

Expert Opinions

As the debate continued, mathematicians weighed in. Mike Breen from the American Mathematical Society stated that, following the strict order of operations, the answer is 16. However, he acknowledged the equation’s ambiguity.

Rhett Allain, a Physics Professor from Southeastern Louisiana University, noted that the problem is a matter of convention. He suggested the equation should be written more clearly as 8/(2*(2+2)), which would yield 1.

The Ongoing Debate

So, is the answer 16 or 1? The debate underscores the fascinating complexities of mathematics and how interpretation can lead to different conclusions. The battle of interpretations continues to engage and puzzle minds everywhere.