Has it ever happened to you that even the simplest thing seems like a world to you? This is exactly what has happened with the mathematical challenge that we will present to you below. And it is that, this mathematical problem has quickly gone viral on social networks because, although it seems like a very basic calculation… its resolution depends on following the clear rules of mathematics: the order of operations. We leave the operation for you to practice, and now we tell you: 2 x 2 – 2 ÷ 2 + 2. Ready? Now!
Now tell us how you do with this operation and if you are also part of the debate that has been generated on networks.
How should we solve this type of operations clearly?
We do not need to go back to primary education, but there are some established rules that are necessary to correctly solve this type of operation, the Hierarchy of Operations, what does this mean? That each account has an order and a time to be solved. Let’s go step by step to solve it. 1. The first thing you have to do (always) is multiplication and division. And not just any way, always from left to right. So:
- We calculate 2 x 2 (the result is 4)
- Then, we solve 2 ÷ 2, which results in 1.
- Now, we simplify the operation: 4 – 1 + 2
- Now, you add and subtract, also always from left to right.
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- So, first we are going to subtract 4 – 1 = 3
- and we are going to add 3 + 2 = 5
Therefore, the final result of this operation is 5
So easy, yes. Well, this mathematical challenge has generated an intense debate on social networks, and the fact is that many of us who are clumsy in mathematics do not remember how important the hierarchy of operations is.
Why is it so important?
The hierarchy of operations is a way of globalizing the way in which we do mathematics. Imagine, as we have seen with this example, that each person solved the calculations in a different way. Mathematics would then cease to be the “most exact science” and there would be no consensus on the results. Imagine if we extrapolated this chaos of results to finance, salaries or engineering. It doesn’t seem so fun, right? Thus, the hierarchy of operations is essential to develop and value logical thinking.
What are the benefits of math?
Not only to test your knowledge, but math, although many of us are not very fond of it, has a very positive impact on your brain that we are going to tell you about below.
- When solving calculations, you must remember numbers and intermediate operations, so it helps strengthen our memory and ability to focus. What is this for? Well, every day, you use this part of your brain to do things as simple as the shopping list.
- Math stimulates the areas of the brain related to logical reasoning and problem solving, so, beyond the academic field, it helps us make everyday decisions (such as resolving conflicts)
- Mental calculation helps us make decisions more quickly, such as discounts in a store or estimating travel times without the need for additional tools.
- It is essential that we keep the brain active helping to prevent diseases such as Alzheimer and other neurodegenerative diseases
So, even though many of us hate maths and think that it’s just numbers, in reality it’s present in everything we do practically every day of our lives (and also in all the objects and things we have). So, from cooking with proportions to turning on the TV, there are complex mathematical calculations behind it! So, the next time you think that “maths is useless”… give it a spin, it’s more than just numbers and patience!