The internet is buzzing with a math problem that’s got everyone from social media users to scientists scratching their heads. Much like the infamous “blue and black dress” debate, this viral equation—8 ÷ 2(2 + 2)—has sparked heated discussions online, leaving even experts divided.
In 2019, a Twitter user posted this math conundrum, causing a full-blown debate. Popular Mechanics editors even got caught up in it, arguing over the correct answer in their workplace chat. Here’s how it broke down:
The PEMDAS Dilemma
The first group followed the basic PEMDAS rule (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction). They tackled the parentheses first (2 + 2 = 4), leaving the equation 8 ÷ 2 x 4. According to PEMDAS, division and multiplication should be solved from left to right, so 8 ÷ 2 = 4, and then 4 x 4 = 16.
But then came the second group, who argued that the equation should be treated differently. They solved it as 8 ÷ 2(4), treating the multiplication in parentheses as a higher priority. This group arrived at the answer 1, leading to even more debate.
The Experts Weigh In
Mathematicians jumped in to clarify. Mike Breen from the American Mathematical Society said that strictly following the order of operations, the answer should be 16. However, he acknowledged that the equation’s ambiguity made the situation complicated.
Physics Professor Rhett Allain from Southeastern Louisiana University agreed, explaining that the equation should’ve been written as 8/(2*(2+2)), which would give the answer 1. He compared it to spelling variations like “gray” vs. “grey”—we all get the point, even if the conventions differ.
The Final Verdict
While Breen stands by 16 as the correct answer based on traditional order of operations, the equation’s unclear formatting has left the debate wide open. So, whether you’re a math pro or a casual observer, this puzzle is a reminder that even the simplest problems can have a twist!