What is the answer to this sum?

[fantashtic]

I've seen this sum 2 + 2(2+2) x 2 = ?
I would have thought the answer was 20, however Google says it is 18. What are the rules for when you add or multiply? Do you do all the multiplying first then add or what?

[dr b]

yes, multiplication comes before addition

So 2x(2+2) = 8, multiply by 2 for 16, then add the initial "2" for 18.

[teacher1]

Google ..... BODMAS ;o)

[dr b]

The ever-reliable Wiki explains it all:

http://en.wikipedia.o...i/Order_of_operations

[bednobs]

or just read thru this thread for clarification http://www.theanswerb.../Question1169315.html

[factor-fiction]

18.
Use the rules of BIDMAS/BODMAS

Do the sum in the Brackets first.
That gives you 2+2(4)x2
The 2(4) bit =8
That gives you 2+8x2

After brackets use Multiplication which takes precedence over addition
That gives you 2+16
That gives you 18

[fantashtic]

Methinks I follow.

[chakka35]

The trouble with BODMAS is that it is just a formula which you are encouraged to follow. But by the basic rules of arithmetic the problem given is ambiguous because the x2 is not attached.

What is the point of using 2(2+2) to signify doubling the contents of the brackets only to use a different method (x2) to multiply that content again?

Two possible answers are 18 or 20 depending on how you see the x2. The problem needs to be less sloppily expressed.

[wildwood]

I read the 2(2+2) to mean 24... so got 50.
Should it have read 2x(2+2) to get 18 ?

I know, math was not my strong point.

[squarebear]

The answer is 18

2+2(2+2)x2
2+2(4)x2
2+8x2
2+16
18

Google is correct