What is BODMAS?
BODMAS is an acronym used to help remember the order of operations in mathematics. When solving mathematical expressions, operations must be performed in a specific sequence to ensure accurate results. The order is:
1. B – Brackets: Solve anything inside parentheses or brackets first.
2. O – Orders (or powers): Evaluate exponents (e.g., \(2^3\)) or roots (e.g., \(\sqrt{4}\)).
3. D – Division: Perform division operations from left to right.
4. M – Multiplication: Perform multiplication operations from left to right.
5. A – Addition: Perform addition operations from left to right.
6. S – Subtraction: Perform subtraction operations from left to right.
Worked ExampleS
Expression:
\[
5 + (3 \times 2) – 4^2 \div 2
\]
Step-by-Step Solution Using BODMAS:
1. Brackets: Solve the expression inside the brackets.
\(3 \times 2 = 6\).
The expression becomes:
\[
5 + 6 – 4^2 \div 2
\]
2. Orders: Evaluate the exponentiation (powers).
\(4^2 = 16\).
The expression becomes:
\[
5 + 6 – 16 \div 2
\]
3. Division: Perform division from left to right.
\(16 \div 2 = 8\).
The expression becomes:
\[
5 + 6 – 8
\]
4. Addition: Perform addition next.
\(5 + 6 = 11\).
The expression becomes:
\[
11 – 8
\]
5. Subtraction: Finally, subtract the numbers.
\(11 – 8 = 3\).
Final Answer:
\[
3
\]
