People have long debated a viral math problem on social media. It seems like a simple enough question, but people keep coming up with different answers, fueling the fight. Instead of arguing about politics, people are arguing about a math problem. That’s certainly different!
Now there’s finally a video to solve the debate once and for all. After you watch, you’ll understand why this simple math problem caused such a ruckus.
Viral Math Problem
Here is the simple math problem that is confounding the masses:
6 ÷ 2(1+2) =
Some people say the answer is 9 while others say it is 1.
There is a straightforward reason why educated people are coming up with both answers. It depends on how you were taught math.
If you were to plug this equation into a scientific calculator, the answer would be 9. That is how math is taught today.
But, some of us were taught by an older standard and came up with the answer of 1. I will raise my hand and admit that I must be old because I got 1!
If you want to make yourself feel better about your arithmetic skills, watch this girl try to solve a math problem.
Viral Video Shows How To Solve It
In the video below, this problem is solved out for you and explains the differences between the two learning styles. I certainly needed a refresher on the “new” math.
This video quickly amassed millions of views, proving that people are interested in math!
I must say that it’s nice to see a math video go viral in this highly charged political era!
The mathematician explained the problem by writing, “What is 6÷2(1+2) = ? This problem went viral and generated millions of comments on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and social media sites. I explain how to get the correct answer by using the modern interpretation of the order of operations. I also explain how you would get a different answer under historical usage of the division symbol.”
WATCH below and see if you got the correct answer!
I feel rather dated that I had been using a math standard from 1917! I found this video very helpful!
Click here to see if you can answer another viral math problem!
Share this if you love math!
Source: Pop Sugar
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