On social media, many viewers were baffled by a seemingly simple math problem that was claimed to be “only for geniuses.”
On the Threads flatform, the ‘Genius-Only’ Math Problem Stumps Many, sparking online debate.
A seemingly simple math problem has recently gone viral, leaving many puzzled and sparking heated debates online. Marketed as a challenge only for “geniuses,” this problem has proven to be more tricky than it appears at first glance. Despite its simplicity, a significant number of people have struggled with it, leading to a mix of frustration and disbelief across social media platforms.
The math problem that left many puzzled is: 3 x 3 – 3 ÷ 3 + 3.
On Threads, Mark Zuckerberg’s platform, a user named @deepak_thakur_9897, shared this puzzling math question.
The math problem in question is: **3 x 3 – 3 ÷ 3 + 3**. At first glance, it might seem straightforward, but the correct solution requires careful application of the order of operations. Here’s why this seemingly simple equation has left so many stumped:
Common misconceptions
A common mistake is solving the equation sequentially from left to right. If you do this, you might first calculate:
– 3 x 3 = 9
– 9 – 3 = 6
– 6 ÷ 3 = 2
– 2 + 3 = 5
However, this approach is incorrect because it does not follow the proper mathematical order of operations.
Correct approach: BIDMAS/PEMDAS
To solve this equation accurately, you must use BIDMAS (Brackets, Indices, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction), or its American equivalent, PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction). Here’s the correct process:
Multiplication and division: Perform these operations first.
– 3 x 3 = 9
– 3 ÷ 3 = 1
Substitute and solve: Replace the results back into the equation.
– 9 – 1 + 3
Addition and subtraction: Complete these operations from left to right.
– 9 – 1 = 8
– 8 + 3 = 11
Thus, the correct answer is [11].
The puzzling math quickly went viral and sparked debate on social media
The math problem has generated a wide range of responses.
Some users were surprised to find themselves unable to solve it correctly, while others confidently posted incorrect answers, leading to discussions about the state of mathematical literacy.
One commentator dramatically suggested that the “world is doomed” due to the widespread confusion, though this might be an overstatement.
One person wrote:
3×3-3÷3+3
3×3-1+3
9-1+3
9-4
5
A second wrote: At first I got 5 on my own but when I saw the other response I had to google it. It’s 11
While a third commented:
3×3-3÷3+3
3×3-1+3
9-1+3
9-4
5
Someone ele added:
Can you give your answer?