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The case for 1
How did they get 1 as an answer?
The team followed the PEMDAS rule but interpreted it differently. While they agreed that the 2 + 2 inside the parentheses should be solved first, they argued that the resulting sum should be treated as if it were still within parentheses, essentially rewriting the equation as 8 ÷ 2(4), which gives us 1.
Weighing in on the massive problem, Rhett Allain, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Physics at Southeastern Louisiana University, says “This is the math version of, ‘What color is this dress? Blue and black or gold and white?’”
Rhett says the answer is 16.
“Of course this isn’t math. This is convention. We have conventions on how to write these things just like we have conventions on how to spell stuff. But still, there are different conventions. Some people spell it as ‘gray’ and others as ‘grey.’” He adds, “We still understand what’s going on. For me, I would write this more explicitly so that there is no confusion…That way no one will get it wrong.”
Whether you’re on team 16 or team 1, this viral phenomenon proves one thing: math has never been so confusing or more entertaining! So, which side are you on? Let us know in the comments!