Mathematics has a way of testing our logic and attention to detail. Some equations appear simple at first glance but can deceive even the smartest minds. Today, we’re tackling a viral math challenge that has sparked debates online. Can you solve it correctly?
Here’s the equation:
10 – 10 × 10 + 10 = ?
It looks straightforward, but don’t rush! Many people get the wrong answer because they don’t follow the correct order of operations.
Before reading further, try solving it yourself. What answer did you get? Let’s find out if you got it right!
Why Do So Many People Get This Wrong?
Even though this equation looks like basic arithmetic, a large percentage of people answer incorrectly. Why? Let’s explore the common mistakes that lead to incorrect solutions.
One of the most common mistakes is treating the equation as if it should be solved from left to right, just like reading a sentence in English. Many people do the following:
Step 1: 10 – 10 = 0
Step 2: 0 × 10 = 0
Step 3: 0 + 10 = 10
Final Answer: 10 (Incorrect!)
This method leads to the wrong answer because it ignores a crucial math rule—the order of operations.
Another major mistake people make is assuming that all operations should be performed in the order they appear. Instead of identifying the priority of multiplication, they proceed as if all operations are equal.
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Math follows a specific rule that dictates which operations should be performed first, and multiplication always takes precedence over addition and subtraction.
For some people, working with negative numbers makes things more confusing. Once they reach the subtraction step, they struggle to correctly manage negative values, which leads to miscalculations.
Now, let’s go step by step and solve this problem the right way!
Step-by-Step Solution: Applying the Order of Operations
To find the correct answer to 10 – 10 × 10 + 10, we must use the correct order of operations.
Understanding the Order of Operations (PEMDAS)
In mathematics, we use PEMDAS to determine the order in which operations should be performed:
Parentheses (solve anything inside parentheses first)
Exponents (calculate powers and roots)
Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)
Since there are no parentheses or exponents in our equation, we focus on multiplication first before handling addition and subtraction.
Step 1: Solve the Multiplication First
The only multiplication in the equation is 10 × 10, which equals 100. Let’s rewrite the equation with this value:
10 – 100 + 10
Step 2: Perform Subtraction and Addition from Left to Right
Now, we follow the standard order, solving from left to right.
10 – 100 = -90
-90 + 10 = -80
Final Answer: -80
Now It’s Your Turn!
How did you do? Did you get -80 on your first try? If so, congratulations! You have strong math skills and great attention to detail.
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If you got a different answer, don’t worry! These types of puzzles are designed to challenge even experienced problem-solvers. The important thing is learning from mistakes and improving your approach to solving equations.
Math is all about precision and logical thinking. Keep challenging yourself with more brain teasers, and soon, solving tricky equations like this will become second nature!
