Only Geniuses Can Solve This Viral Math Equation—Can You Crack It?

Every so often, a simple-looking math problem takes the internet by storm, causing heated debates, frantic scribbles, and head-scratching confusion. One such equation has gone viral recently, leaving even math lovers second-guessing their answers.

Let’s see if you can solve it—without peeking at the comments.

The Viral Equation:

8 ÷ 2(2 + 2) = ?

At first glance, this may look straightforward. But depending on how you interpret it, you'll likely get one of two different answers—and only one of them is correct.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Let’s walk through it carefully:

8 ÷ 2(2 + 2)

First, solve the parentheses:

→ 8 ÷ 2(4)

Now here's where it gets tricky. Do you:

• Divide 8 by 2 and then multiply by 4?

• Or treat 2(4) as a single unit and divide 8 by that?

Let’s evaluate both methods.

Method 1: Left to Right (PEMDAS/BODMAS)

According to the order of operations (PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication & Division (left to right), Addition & Subtraction), we solve from left to right when multiplication and division appear together.

So:

8 ÷ 2 × 4

= 4 × 4

= 16

Method 2: Treat 2(4) as One Term

Some argue that 2(4) should be evaluated as a single term (implied multiplication), so:

8 ÷ [2(4)]= 8 ÷ 8= 1

But here’s the catch: modern math notation and calculators follow left-to-right order for multiplication and division unless parentheses specifically change it.

The Correct Answer Is: 16

Using standard order of operations and interpreting the expression correctly, 8 ÷ 2(2 + 2) simplifies as:

8 ÷ 2 × 4= 4 × 4= 16

So if you got 16, congratulations! You’ve officially passed the viral math test.

Why This Equation Is So Controversial

The ambiguity in the formatting of the expression is what trips people up. Without clearer parentheses, people interpret it differently. It’s a good reminder of why clarity in math matters.

In academic settings, you’d never write a problem like this without adding parentheses to remove all doubt.