To solve the expression $8 \div 2(2 + 2)$, we need to follow the standard order of operations (often remembered by acronyms like PEMDAS or BODMAS).
Step 1: Solve inside the parentheses
First, we look for any operations inside parentheses or brackets.
Inside the parentheses, we have $(2 + 2)$.
$$2 + 2 = 4$$
Now, substitute this back into the expression:
$$8 \div 2(4)$$
This can be written more clearly as:
$$8 \div 2 \times 4$$
Step 2: Multiplication and Division
The next rule is that multiplication and division are equal in priority. When they appear together, you must solve them from
left to right. You do not do the multiplication first just because it looks attached to the parentheses; you follow the left-to-right order.
First, perform the division on the left:
$$8 \div 2 = 4$$
Now, take that result and multiply by the remaining number:
$$4 \times 4 = 16$$
Verification:
- Parentheses: $2+2=4$. Expression becomes $8 \div 2 \times 4$.
- Left-to-right: $8 \div 2 = 4$.
- Final step: $4 \times 4 = 16$.
Final Answer:
16
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of basic math problems.
