Using the MDAS rule in order of operations, we do the multiplication and division first (whichever among the two comes first), then followed by addition and subtraction (whichever comes first among the two). The parentheses are irrelevant because there is no arithmetic operation inside.
4 + 4 / 2(2) + 4
= 4 + 2(2) + 4
= 4 + 4 + 4
= 12
Using the "series" order of operations (like how an ordinary non-scientific calculator will solve), you just perform the arithmetic operations from left to right. Parentheses are still irrelevant.
4 + 4 / 2(2) + 4
= 8 / 2(2) + 4
= 4(2) + 4
= 8 + 4
= 12
The solutions are different but the answers are the same in your problem. I'd choose the MDAS by default though. 😁
I asked because some people (and calculators) will solve it like this:
4 + 4 / (2/2) + 4
= 8 + 1 + 4
= 9
Because they deal with Parentheses before dividing. Which lets "2(2)" be essentially "2*2" without taking in mind the 4 before them.
My question is a trick question though... You won't find 2(2) in real world problems because people don't have a rule to follow for this, (at least not a rule they teach in the schools I've been in.) People who abstract real life problems with Algebra will try to make their equations as clear as possible.
I personally do not know any person or calculator who will perform 2(2) as 2/2.🤔
I would like to say that every person with at least an above-average knowledge in Math will see that 2(2) is 2 times 2. 🤔🤔
Thanks for your question and your reply! 🙂
Haha! I messed up! I meant to write (2*2) but I think you got what I mean, Haha~