In a certain coded arithmetic, the symbols do not have their usual meanings:\n\nThe minus sign (–) means division, the plus sign (+) means multiplication, the division sign (÷) means addition and the multiplication sign (x) means subtraction.\n\nUsing this code, evaluate the expression 11 ÷ 6 – 2 + 5 x 3.

Introduction / Context:
This problem is a classic coded-operations question in verbal reasoning. The usual arithmetic symbols have been reassigned new meanings, and you must evaluate a given expression by first decoding each symbol and then applying standard arithmetic rules like precedence of operations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• – stands for division.
• + stands for multiplication.
• ÷ stands for addition.
• x stands for subtraction.
• Expression to evaluate: 11 ÷ 6 – 2 + 5 x 3.
• Normal operator precedence (division and multiplication before addition and subtraction) still applies after decoding.

Concept / Approach:
We begin by carefully substituting each coded symbol with its true operation. After rewriting the entire expression with ordinary symbols, we simplify it step by step. Keeping track of precedence is crucial, because performing operations in the wrong order will produce the wrong final value and lead to an incorrect option choice.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Rewrite each symbol according to the code. Step 2: The division sign ÷ stands for addition, so 11 ÷ 6 becomes 11 + 6. Step 3: The minus sign – stands for division, so – 2 becomes ÷ 2. Step 4: The plus sign + stands for multiplication, so + 5 becomes × 5. Step 5: The multiplication sign x stands for subtraction, so x 3 becomes - 3. Step 6: Thus the coded expression 11 ÷ 6 – 2 + 5 x 3 translates to 11 + 6 ÷ 2 × 5 - 3. Step 7: Apply precedence: first 6 ÷ 2 = 3. Step 8: Then 3 × 5 = 15. Step 9: Now compute 11 + 15 - 3 = 26 - 3 = 23.

Verification / Alternative check:
We can recompute quickly: 6 ÷ 2 = 3, 3 × 5 = 15, and 11 + 15 = 26, then 26 - 3 = 23. No other option equals 23, confirming that our decoding and calculation are consistent and accurate.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The options 17, 21 and 26 would occur if we mistakenly used the usual meanings of the symbols or ignored the proper order of operations. For example, treating x as multiplication instead of subtraction or performing additions before division and multiplication would change the numerical result, making these values inappropriate for the coded rules given.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes replace only some of the symbols and inadvertently mix coded and normal meanings, or they simply read ÷ and x as they look instead of according to the mapping. Another common issue is computing from left to right without observing precedence. A disciplined substitution step followed by a clear order of operations avoids these errors.

Final Answer:
After decoding the symbols and simplifying correctly, the value of the expression is 23, so option (c) is correct.