Few things divide the internet quite like a seemingly simple math equation. The problem displayed in image, 6 \div 2(1+2), has sparked thousands of viral arguments, prompting the explicit question: "Answer is NOT 1?" Depending on how you were taught the order of operations, you will either arrive confidently at 1 or 9.
To settle the score definitively, we have to look at standard modern algebraic order of operations, known as PEMDAS or BODMAS. The rule states we must handle Parentheses (or Brackets) first, followed by Multiplication and Division from left to right.
Let's break it down step-by-step:
Solve the Parentheses: Calculate the numbers inside the brackets first: (1 + 2) = 3. The equation now updates to 6 \div 2(3) or 6 \div 2 \times 3.
Move Left to Right: Because division and multiplication hold equal priority, you must calculate them strictly from left to right.
Divide First: Take 6 \div 2, which gives you 3.
Multiply Last: Finally, multiply that result by the remaining number: 3 \times 3.
The mathematical result is 9. The answer is indeed not 1!