Select the correct combination of mathematical signs that can sequentially replace the * signs and balance the given equation.
35 * 7 * 25 * 15 * 2
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → ÷, +, =, ×
Put the signs of an option in place of the * signs in order, and work out each side of ‘=’ by BODMAS. The option is right only when the two sides are equal.
With ÷, +, =, × the equation reads 35 ÷ 7 + 25 = 15 × 2
Left side \(=5+25=30\)
Right side \(=15\times2=30\), so the two sides are equal
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (1) +, ÷, =, × — Incorrect. 35 + 7 ÷ 25 = 15 × 2 gives 35.28 on the left and 30 on the right.
Option (3) ×, =, ÷, + — Incorrect. 35 × 7 = 25 ÷ 15 + 2 gives 245 on the left and \(\frac{11}{3}\) on the right.
Option (4) ÷, =, ÷, × — Incorrect. 35 ÷ 7 = 25 ÷ 15 × 2 gives 5 on the left and \(\frac{10}{3}\) on the right.