A seemingly innocent maths puzzle has taken the internet by storm, leaving a trail of baffled Brits in its wake and proving that some equations are far trickier than they first appear.
Shared widely across social media, the puzzle presents a simple challenge: What is the correct answer to 60 ÷ 5(7-5)? The glaringly obvious answer isn't the only one, and it's this very ambiguity that has sparked a furious online debate.
The Great British Maths Debate
The core of the confusion lies in the order of operations, a fundamental concept taught in schools across the UK. Most will remember the acronym BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division and Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction) or its cousin, PEMDAS.
This is where the argument splits into two distinct camps:
The Case for Answer 6
One group fervently insists the answer is 6. Their working is as follows:
- First, solve the brackets: (7 - 5) = 2. The equation becomes 60 ÷ 5(2).
- Next, handle the multiplication and division from left to right: 60 ÷ 5 = 12.
- Finally, 12 x 2 = 24.
For them, the solution is clear and unequivocal.
The Case for Answer 24
The other camp is equally convinced the answer is 24. Their logic is different:
- Solve the brackets: (7 - 5) = 2.
- However, they argue that the implied multiplication by the bracket (5(2)) takes priority. So, 5(2) = 10.
- This leaves 60 ÷ 10, which equals 6.
This interpretation hinges on treating the juxtaposed multiplication as having a higher priority than the division symbol.
Why This Puzzle Is So Brilliantly Tricky
The puzzle is a masterclass in mathematical ambiguity. The lack of a clear multiplication symbol between the '5' and the bracket is its secret weapon. This creates a grey area in the strict rules of BODMAS/PEMDAS, where some believe implied multiplication should be prioritised.
This viral conundrum highlights a fascinating aspect of how we communicate maths. A slightly different notation—such as 60 ÷ 5 x (7-5) or using a fraction—would have made the problem unambiguous and ended the debate before it began.
So, whether you landed on 6 or 24, you're in good company. The puzzle has successfully divided the nation, proving that even the simplest equations can cause mass confusion and delight in equal measure.
