Calculate (9+4) * 5 - 18 - 6: Step-by-Step Solution

by Pedro Alvarez 52 views

Hey guys! Ever stumbled upon a math problem that looks a bit intimidating at first glance? Well, fear not! We're going to break down the calculation of (9+4) multiplied by 5, then subtracting 18 and 6 step by step. This is a classic example of an order of operations problem, and mastering these types of calculations is super important for your math journey. So, grab your thinking caps, and let's dive in!

Understanding the Order of Operations

Before we even think about numbers, we need to talk about the order of operations. Think of it as the golden rule of math – a set of guidelines that tells us which operations to perform first. The most common mnemonic for remembering this is PEMDAS, which stands for:

  • Parentheses
  • Exponents
  • Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
  • Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)

This means we always tackle parentheses first, then exponents, then multiplication and division (working from left to right), and finally addition and subtraction (also from left to right). Ignoring this order can lead to some seriously wrong answers, and we definitely don't want that! So, keep PEMDAS in mind as we go through the problem.

Step 1: Tackling the Parentheses (9 + 4)

Looking at our problem, (9+4) * 5 - 18 - 6, the first thing that jumps out at us is the parentheses. According to PEMDAS, we always deal with parentheses first. Inside the parentheses, we have a simple addition: 9 + 4. This one's pretty straightforward: 9 plus 4 equals 13. So, we can replace the (9+4) part of our equation with 13. Our equation now looks like this: 13 * 5 - 18 - 6. See? We're already simplifying things!

Why are parentheses so important? They act like a VIP section for operations, telling us to prioritize what's inside them. Without parentheses, we might accidentally do the multiplication before the addition, which would give us a completely different result. So, always remember to give those parentheses some love first!

This step highlights the importance of paying close attention to the structure of the equation. Parentheses aren't just random symbols; they're crucial signposts guiding us through the calculation. Mastering this initial step is fundamental for solving more complex mathematical problems down the road. By correctly identifying and resolving the expression within the parentheses, we lay a solid foundation for the subsequent steps. It's like building a house – you need a strong foundation before you can start adding walls and a roof. So, let's appreciate the power of parentheses and move on to the next step with confidence!

Step 2: Multiplication (13 * 5)

Now that we've conquered the parentheses, let's move on to the next operation in our list: multiplication. Our equation is currently 13 * 5 - 18 - 6. According to PEMDAS, multiplication and division come before addition and subtraction, so 13 multiplied by 5 is our next target. If you know your multiplication tables, you'll know that 13 times 5 is 65. If not, don't worry! You can always use a calculator or do the multiplication by hand. Either way, we replace the "13 * 5" part of the equation with 65. Now our equation reads: 65 - 18 - 6.

Multiplication is like a mathematical shortcut for repeated addition. Instead of adding 13 five times, we can simply multiply 13 by 5 to get the same result. This makes calculations much faster and more efficient, especially when dealing with larger numbers. Mastering multiplication is a key skill in mathematics, and it's something you'll use constantly as you progress in your studies.

This step demonstrates how understanding the order of operations streamlines the problem-solving process. By prioritizing multiplication over subtraction, we maintain the integrity of the equation and ensure an accurate final answer. It's like following a recipe – if you add the ingredients in the wrong order, the dish won't turn out quite right. Similarly, in math, the order in which we perform operations is critical for achieving the correct result. So, let's continue to follow the PEMDAS roadmap and move on to the final step:

Step 3: Subtraction (65 - 18 - 6)

Alright, guys, we're in the home stretch! Our equation now looks like 65 - 18 - 6. We've tackled the parentheses and the multiplication, so all that's left is subtraction. PEMDAS tells us to perform addition and subtraction from left to right. This means we first subtract 18 from 65, and then subtract 6 from the result.

So, let's start with 65 - 18. This gives us 47. Now, we have 47 - 6. Finally, 47 minus 6 equals 41. Woohoo! We've reached the final answer.

Subtraction is essentially the opposite of addition. It's the process of taking away one number from another. In this case, we're successively subtracting smaller numbers from a larger number to arrive at our final result. Subtraction, like addition, is a fundamental arithmetic operation that we use in countless real-world situations, from calculating change at the store to measuring ingredients for a recipe.

This final step underscores the importance of performing operations in the correct sequence. By working from left to right, we ensure that the subtractions are carried out accurately and that the final answer reflects the true value of the expression. It's like reading a sentence – we read from left to right to understand the meaning. Similarly, in math, we perform operations from left to right to arrive at the correct solution. So, congratulations on making it to the end! You've successfully navigated the order of operations and arrived at the answer.

The Final Answer: 41

So, after carefully following the order of operations, we've determined that the answer to (9+4) multiplied by 5, then subtracting 18 and 6 is 41. You did it! Give yourselves a pat on the back. This problem might have seemed a bit complicated at first, but by breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps, we were able to solve it with ease. Remember, math is like building with LEGOs – you start with the individual pieces and gradually assemble them to create something bigger and more complex.

The key takeaway here is the importance of PEMDAS. By adhering to the order of operations, we can ensure that our calculations are accurate and consistent. This is a fundamental principle in mathematics, and it will serve you well as you tackle more challenging problems in the future. Think of PEMDAS as your trusty guide, always there to lead you through the mathematical maze.

Moreover, this exercise highlights the power of breaking down complex problems into simpler steps. By tackling the parentheses first, then the multiplication, and finally the subtraction, we transformed a seemingly daunting equation into a series of manageable calculations. This is a valuable problem-solving skill that extends far beyond mathematics. Whether you're planning a project at work or organizing your daily schedule, the ability to break things down into smaller tasks can make any challenge feel less overwhelming.

So, the next time you encounter a math problem that looks a bit intimidating, remember the lessons we've learned here. Trust in PEMDAS, break the problem down into smaller steps, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. With practice and perseverance, you'll become a math whiz in no time! And that's a wrap, folks! Keep those calculations coming!