The 3 + 3 × 3 - 3 + 3 = ? What is the right answer and how?

A. 18

B. 12

C. 03

D. 06

To solve the expression 3 + 3 × 3 - 3 + 3, we need to follow the order of operations, often remembered by the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)). This means we handle multiplication before addition and subtraction.

Breaking Down the Expression

Let's rewrite the expression clearly:

3 + 3 × 3 - 3 + 3

Step 1: Perform Multiplication First

According to the order of operations, we start with the multiplication:

• 3 × 3 = 9

Now, we can substitute this back into the expression:

3 + 9 - 3 + 3

Step 2: Proceed with Addition and Subtraction from Left to Right

Now, we will handle the addition and subtraction in the order they appear:

• First, add 3 + 9:
• 3 + 9 = 12
• Next, subtract 3:
• 12 - 3 = 9
• Finally, add 3:
• 9 + 3 = 12

The Final Result

After performing all the operations, we find that:

The answer to the expression 3 + 3 × 3 - 3 + 3 is 12.

Answer Choices

Looking at the options provided:

• A. 18
• B. 12
• C. 03
• D. 06

The correct choice is B. 12.

Understanding the Importance of Order of Operations

This example illustrates why it's crucial to follow the order of operations in mathematics. If we were to perform the operations from left to right without regard for multiplication first, we might incorrectly arrive at a different answer. Always remember that multiplication takes precedence over addition and subtraction to ensure accuracy in calculations.