In a certain code language, "A" means "plus", "B" means "divide", "C" means "multiply" and "D" means "minus". Using these meanings, what is the value of 187 B 17 C 4 A 7 D 17?

Introduction / Context:
This operator coding problem uses the letters A, B, C and D as stand ins for the four basic arithmetic operations. You must interpret the expression 187 B 17 C 4 A 7 D 17 correctly and then simplify it. These questions test translation skills and correct application of operator precedence.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• "A" means plus (+).
• "B" means divide (÷).
• "C" means multiply (*).
• "D" means minus (-).
• Expression: 187 B 17 C 4 A 7 D 17.
• Normal arithmetic precedence applies after decoding.

Concept / Approach:
First decode the expression by replacing each letter with the correct arithmetic symbol. Once you have a standard expression, use the order of operations: division and multiplication first, then addition and subtraction. It is helpful to write the decoded expression clearly to avoid mental confusion between letters and true operators.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Decode the expression: 187 B 17 C 4 A 7 D 17 becomes 187 ÷ 17 * 4 + 7 - 17.Step 2: Perform division first: 187 ÷ 17 = 11.Step 3: Multiply the result by 4: 11 * 4 = 44.Step 4: Now the expression is 44 + 7 - 17.Step 5: Carry out addition and subtraction from left to right: 44 + 7 = 51.Step 6: Then 51 - 17 = 34.

Verification / Alternative check:
Because 187 and 17 divide exactly to give 11, any error in this early step would quickly show up as a fractional or inconsistent result. Re performing the arithmetic confirms that 11 * 4 is 44, and 44 + 7 - 17 equals 34. The decoded expression and the computed value both check out, so the answer is reliable.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 30 and 33 could result from incorrect subtraction at the final stage.
• 44 would be obtained if we forgot to add 7 and subtract 17.
• 39 corresponds to miscalculating 44 + 7 or 51 - 17.

Common Pitfalls:
Students often decode some but not all letters correctly, especially when there are four different operators. Another common error is to ignore the precedence of division and multiplication and work from left to right only. Writing down the decoded form and then doing the arithmetic step by step prevents these mistakes.

Final Answer:
After decoding and simplifying, the value of 187 B 17 C 4 A 7 D 17 is 34.