Viral Math Problem: 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2)

You’ve probably seen this question floating around the internet. It’s one of those viral math puzzles that’s sparked debates everywhere, and believe it or not, it’s super easy to trip up on! So, let’s solve it step by step, nice and clear.

8 ÷ 2(2 + 2)

Step 1: Solve the parentheses

2 + 2 = 4

Now the expression becomes:

8 ÷ 2(4)

This is where confusion often happens. The key is to follow order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS):

• Parentheses

• Exponents

• MD (Multiplication and Division, from left to right)

• AS (Addition and Subtraction, from left to right)

Now interpret the expression:

8 ÷ 2 × 4

We perform division and multiplication left to right:

8 ÷ 2 = 4

$$4 \cdot 4 = 16$$

✅ Final Answer: 16