No, the instructions are not correct. According to the given instructions, the expression should be solved as follows:
1. Square 6.5: (6.5)² = 42.25
2. Add 8.5 to this number: 42.25 + 8.5 = 50.75
3. Divide the sum by 2: 50.75 ÷ 2 = 25.375
4. Square the quotient: (25.375)² = 644.765625
However, the actual expression is 6.5² + 8.5 ÷ 2².
In the actual expression, the order of operations should be followed, which is Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (from left to right).
Using PEMDAS, we would solve the expression as follows:
1. Solve the exponent: 6.5² = 42.25
2. Solve the exponent: 2² = 4
3. Divide: 8.5 ÷ 4 = 2.125
4. Add: 42.25 + 2.125 = 44.375
So, the correct answer is 44.375.
9. Alex and Samantha were given instructions to solve the numerical expression below. Are the instructions correct? Explain your reasoning.
6.5² + 8.5 ÷ 2² → Square 6.5. Add 8.5 to this number. Divide the sum by 2 and then square the quotient.
1 answer