Solving Mathematical Expressions with BODMAS: A Comprehensive Guide

Mathematics can sometimes be intimidating, especially when you encounter complex expressions and unclear instructions. The BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction) and PEDMAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction) rules help us maintain order and ensure that expressions are evaluated correctly. In this article, we will explore the BODMAS/PEDMAS rule and apply it to solve the expression 6 ÷ 2(1 2).

Understanding BODMAS and PEDMAS

BODMAS and PEDMAS are acronyms that stand for the order of operations in mathematics. They provide a systematic method to solve mathematical expressions to ensure clarity and consistency.

BODMAS

B - Brackets or Parentheses: First, solve any calculations within the brackets. O - Orders or Exponents or Powers: Next, solve any orders or exponents. D - Division: Then, solve any division operations from left to right. M - Multiplication: After division, solve any multiplication operations from left to right. A - Addition: Next, solve any addition operations from left to right. S - Subtraction: Finally, solve any subtraction operations from left to right.

PEDMAS

P - Parentheses or Brackets: First, solve any calculations within the brackets. E - Exponents or Orders or Powers: Next, solve any exponents or orders. D - Division: Then, solve any division operations from left to right. M - Multiplication: After division, solve any multiplication operations from left to right. A - Addition: Next, solve any addition operations from left to right. S - Subtraction: Finally, solve any subtraction operations from left to right.

Applying BODMAS to the Expression 6 ÷ 2(1 2)

Let's apply the BODMAS rule to solve the expression 6 ÷ 2(1 2).

Step 1: Solve the Calculation within the Brackets

First, we need to solve any calculations within the brackets:

1 2 3

Step 2: Evaluate Division and Multiplication from Left to Right

Since there are no exponents, orders, or other operations to evaluate, we move directly to division and multiplication. According to BODMAS, we solve from left to right:

6 ÷ 2 × 3

First, we perform the division:

6 ÷ 2 3

Next, we perform the multiplication:

3 × 3 9

Therefore, according to the BODMAS rule, the expression 6 ÷ 2(1 2) equals 9.

Conclusion

The BODMAS and PEDMAS rules are essential for solving mathematical expressions systematically. By following these rules, you can ensure that expressions are evaluated correctly and avoid any ambiguity. Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone who needs to use mathematics in everyday life, understanding these rules is crucial.

FAQs

What is the BODMAS rule?

The BODMAS rule stands for Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction. It provides a sequence for evaluating expressions.

What is the PEDMAS rule?

The PEDMAS rule stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction. It is another name for the same sequence of operations.

How do you apply BODMAS to solve a complex expression?

To apply BODMAS, follow these steps:

Solve any calculations within the brackets. Solve any exponents or orders. Perform division and multiplication from left to right. Perform addition and subtraction from left to right.