A Devilish Equation Sparks Online Frenzy
A seemingly simple yet devilish-looking equation has sent social media users into a tizzy, with many struggling to determine the correct answer within 30 seconds. The viral math problem, shared by the X account BreakTheSilos, which regularly posts puzzles for decoding, has ignited widespread debate and confusion.
The Puzzle That Caused a Double Take
The equation in question is 6 x 6 - 6 ÷ 6. At first glance, it might appear straightforward, but users quickly realized it involves four sixes, not three, adding to the complexity. Under the original X post, answers varied wildly, with some claiming it was as low as five, while others insisted it was 35 or 36.
Remembering the Golden Rule: PEMDAS
To solve this equation, one must recall the elementary mathematical acronym PEMDAS, which stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction. This rule dictates the order of operations in arithmetic, ensuring calculations are performed correctly.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Solution
Applying PEMDAS to the equation 6 x 6 - 6 ÷ 6, we start by identifying there are no parentheses or exponents. The process begins with multiplication: 6 x 6 equals 36. Next, we move to division: 6 ÷ 6 equals 1. Finally, we perform the subtraction: 36 minus 1, which brings us to the answer of 35.
Did You Get It Right?
If you solved the puzzle correctly and arrived at 35, congratulations! Your arithmetic skills remain intact, and your middle school math teachers would undoubtedly be proud. However, if you did not get the right answer, do not worry—many social media users also failed this test, highlighting how easily such equations can trip people up.
The viral nature of this puzzle underscores the enduring appeal of math challenges online, reminding us of the importance of foundational rules like PEMDAS in everyday problem-solving.
