What is BODMAS?

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Introduction

Mathematics is a fascinating subject that has puzzled and intrigued people for centuries. While many people find math challenging, it can be a lot of fun once you understand the basics. In this article, we’ll explore a fundamental concept in math called BODMAS. BODMAS is an essential tool that helps us solve complex math problems. So, what is BODMAS, and how can we use it? Let’s find out!

What is BODMAS?

BODMAS is an acronym that stands for Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction. It is a set of rules that determines the order in which we perform arithmetic operations when solving a mathematical expression. BODMAS is essential because it eliminates confusion and ensures that we arrive at the correct answer when solving complex math problems.

When and How to Use BODMAS?

To understand when and how to use BODMAS, let’s consider the following expression: 2 + 3 × 4

Without BODMAS, we could interpret this expression in two ways:

1. Add 2 and 3, then multiply the result by 4: (2 + 3) × 4 = 20
2. Multiply 3 and 4, then add 2 to the result: 2 + (3 × 4) = 14

However, with BODMAS, we know that we must perform the multiplication before the addition, so the correct answer is option 2.

So, the order in which we use BODMAS is as follows:

1. Brackets: Solve any expressions inside brackets first.
2. Orders: Evaluate any exponents or powers.
3. Division and Multiplication: Solve any multiplication or division from left to right.
4. Addition and Subtraction: Solve any addition or subtraction from left to right.

Let’s see BODMAS in action with a few examples.

Example 1:

Solve the expression: 6 × (3 + 2)

Solution: Using BODMAS, we start by solving the expression inside the brackets first: 6 × (3 + 2) = 6 × 5 Next, we perform the multiplication: 6 × 5 = 30 Therefore, the solution is 30.

Example 2:

Solve the expression: 15 ÷ 3 + 4 × 2

Solution: Using BODMAS, we start with the division: 15 ÷ 3 = 5 Next, we move to multiplication: 4 × 2 = 8 Finally, we perform the addition: 5 + 8 = 13 Therefore, the solution is 13.

Example 3:

Solve the expression: 2 × (4 + 5) – 3

Solution: Using BODMAS, we start by solving the expression inside the brackets first: 2 × (4 + 5) = 2 × 9 Next, we perform the multiplication: 2 × 9 = 18 Finally, we perform the subtraction: 18 – 3 = 15 Therefore, the solution is 15.

Test your knowledge

1. What does BODMAS stand for?
   • a) Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction
   • b) Brackets, Operations, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction
   • c) Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Summation
2. Which operation is performed first in BODMAS?
   • a) Addition
   • b) Subtraction
   • c) Multiplication
   • d) Division
   • e) Brackets
3. Which expression is equivalent to 4 + 5 × 2?
   • a) 28
   • b) 14
   • c) 13
   • d) 18
4. What is the solution to the expression 6 ÷ (2 + 1) × 2?
   • a) 3
   • b) 6
   • c) 2
   • d) 1
5. Which expression is equivalent to 10 – 3 × 2 + 4?
   • a) 8
   • b) 7
   • c) 4
   • d) 1
6. What is the solution to the expression 4 × 2 – 6 ÷ 3 + 5?
   • a) 9
   • b) 10
   • c) 6
   • d) 11
7. What is the solution to the expression 5 + 2 × 3 – 6 ÷ 3?
   • a) 8
   • b) 5
   • c) 9
   • d) 10
8. What is the solution to the expression 9 – 6 ÷ 3 × 2 + 5?
   • a) 7
   • b) 10
   • c) 11
   • d) 13
9. Which expression is equivalent to 2 × 3 + 4 – 5 ÷ 5?
   • a) 7
   • b) 8
   • c) 9
   • d) 10
10. What is the solution to the expression 2 + 6 ÷ 2 × 4 – 3?
    • a) 9
    • b) 11
    • c) 7
    • d) 5

Answers:

1. a
2. e
3. b
4. b
5. c
6. a
7. c
8. b
9. b
10. a