A maths puzzle is doing rounds on social media. The question, which appears to be simple, has divided the internet.
The question is: 8/2(2+2).
One of the ways it can be solved is:
8 ÷ 2 (2 + 2) =
8 ÷ 2 x 4 =
8 ÷ 2 x 4
and, the answer is
4 x 4 = 16
The other way is: 8/[2(2+2)] = 8/[2(4)] = 8/[8] = 1
Math puzzles as this one have always baffled puzzle solvers. Math puzzles are mathematical problems or games that require creative thinking and problem-solving skills to find a solution. They come in various forms and difficulty levels, ranging from simple arithmetic puzzles to complex mathematical challenges. Math puzzles are an excellent way to enhance your mathematical skills, critical thinking, and logical reasoning abilities. Due to the fact that these puzzles can be solved in more than one way depending on the different rules of mathematics, people get divided over the way of solving.
On this maths puzzle, one user says: The question is ambiguous.
It can be interpreted as
8
--(2+2)
2
Or
8
--
2(2+2)
It's just designed to drive up engagement by making people argue.
Another explains: It's been more than 30 years since my last Math class, but I'm pretty sure it is:
8 ÷ 2 (2 + 2)
8 ÷ 2(4)
8 ÷ 2 x 4
4 x 4 = 16
In order to equal 1, the equation would have to be:
8 ÷ (2(2 + 2))
8 ÷ (2 x 4)
8 ÷ 8 = 1
So, what’s your answer to this puzzle?
