Math puzzles often trick people into making simple mistakes, leading to heated debates over the correct answer. The equation 9 – 3 ÷ 1/3 + 1 = ? is one of those problems that might look easy at first glance but requires a keen understanding of the order of operations to solve correctly.
Are you ready to test your mathematical skills? Let’s break it down step by step and see if you can get the right answer!
Common Mistakes People Make While Solving This Problem
Many people rush into solving this equation and end up with the wrong answer. The most common mistakes include:
- Not following the correct order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS).
- Misinterpreting division by a fraction.
- Solving from left to right without prioritizing division first.
Now, let’s analyze the problem carefully using the correct approach.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Equation
The given mathematical expression is: 9 – 3 ÷ 1/3 + 1
Step 1: Follow the Order of Operations (PEMDAS)
- Parentheses first (not applicable here).
- Exponents (not applicable here).
- MD Multiplication and Division (from left to right).
- AS Addition and Subtraction (from left to right).
Video : Find The Missing Number – Hard Math Puzzle
Given equation:
9 – 3 ÷ (1/3) + 1
Step 2: Solve the Division First
In the expression 3 ÷ 1/3, remember that dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal:
3 ÷ 1/3 = 3 × 3 = 9
Now, the equation simplifies to:
9 – 9 + 1
Step 3: Solve the Remaining Operations
Now, perform the subtraction and addition from left to right:
9 – 9 = 0
0 + 9 = 9
Final Answer: 9
Why Do People Get This Wrong?
One common mistake is misinterpreting division by a fraction. Many people assume 3 ÷ 1/3 = 1, but in reality, dividing by a fraction is equivalent to multiplying by its reciprocal. Another mistake is ignoring the order of operations, which leads to incorrect calculations. Finally, many rush through the problem without carefully applying mathematical rules, causing errors.
Video : Find The Missing Number In Pyramid
Challenge Others to Solve It
Now that you know the correct answer, test your friends! This type of problem is great for improving logical thinking and sharpening math skills.
Drop a comment if you got the right answer, or share another tricky math puzzle for us to solve!
