Select the correct combination of mathematical signs that can sequentially replace the * signs and make the equation correct.
48 * 12 * 8 * 15 * 3 * 44
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → ÷, ×, +, –, =
Put the signs of an option in place of the * signs in order, then work out each side by BODMAS: division and multiplication first, then addition and subtraction from left to right.
With the signs of Option (4): 48 ÷ 12 × 8 + 15 – 3 = 44
\(48\div12=4\)
\(4\times8=32\)
\(32+15-3=44\), which equals the right side
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (1) ×, ÷, =, –, + — Incorrect. 48 × 12 ÷ 8 \(=\) 72, but 15 – 3 + 44 \(=\) 56.
Option (2) +, ÷, –, =, × — Incorrect. 48 + 12 ÷ 8 – 15 \(=\) 34.5, but 3 × 44 \(=\) 132.
Option (3) =, ×, +, ÷, – — Incorrect. 12 × 8 + 15 ÷ 3 – 44 \(=96+5-44=\) 57, not 48.