Introduction
Viral math puzzles are a staple of social media, often sparking lively debates in the comment sections. While these equations look simple at first glance, they frequently trick readers who forget the fundamental rules of arithmetic. The viral expression $50 + 50 – 25 \times 0 + 2 + 2$ is a classic example designed to test whether you remember how to apply the standard order of operations.
In this guide, we will walk through the step-by-step solution to this puzzle, explain the mathematics behind PEMDAS / BODMAS, highlight the most common mistakes people make, and answer frequently asked questions.
1. Step-by-Step Solution
To solve $50 + 50 – 25 \times 0 + 2 + 2$ correctly, follow the standard order of operations:
- Perform Multiplication First:According to order of operations rules, multiplication takes precedence over addition and subtraction.$$25 \times 0 = 0$$
- Rewrite the Expression:Replace $25 \times 0$ with $0$:$$50 + 50 – 0 + 2 + 2$$
- Work Left to Right:With only addition and subtraction remaining, calculate the result sequentially from left to right:
- $50 + 50 = 100$
- $100 – 0 = 100$
- $100 + 2 = 102$
- $102 + 2 = 104$
The correct answer is 104.
2. Understanding PEMDAS / BODMAS
The acronyms PEMDAS and BODMAS are memory aids used around the world to remember the sequence of mathematical operations.
+--------------------------+------------------------------------------------------+
| Acronym (PEMDAS / BODMAS)| Operation Order |
+--------------------------+------------------------------------------------------+
| P / B | Parentheses / Brackets |
| E / O | Exponents / Orders (Powers & Roots) |
| MD / DM | Multiplication and Division (Left to Right) |
| AS | Addition and Subtraction (Left to Right) |
+--------------------------+------------------------------------------------------+
Why Multiplication Comes Before Addition
Mathematical convention dictates that multiplication and division have higher precedence than addition and subtraction. This prevents ambiguity in algebraic expressions and ensures consistent results globally.
3. Common Misconceptions & Mistakes
Why do so many people get answers like 4 or 0 on social media?
- Mistake 1: Reading strictly left-to-right without applying operator precedence.If someone calculates $50 + 50 = 100$, then $100 – 25 = 75$, and multiplies $75 \times 0 = 0$, they end up with $0 + 2 + 2 = 4$. This is incorrect because it ignores the rule that multiplication must be evaluated before addition and subtraction.
- Mistake 2: Assuming multiplying by zero zeroes out the entire equation.Multiplying by zero only affects the specific term attached to the multiplication operator ($25 \times 0$), not the numbers being added or subtracted elsewhere in the expression.
Conclusion
Viral math teasers are a fun reminder of basic mathematical principles. By adhering to PEMDAS / BODMAS and evaluating multiplication before addition and subtraction, the equation $50 + 50 – 25 \times 0 + 2 + 2$ resolves clearly and definitively to 104.
