Fill the symbols “*” so the equation balances. 8 * 8 * 1 * 7 = 8
Verbal Reasoning
Mathematical Operations
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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Ax ÷ +
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B+ ÷ x
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C÷ x +
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D+ x ÷
Answer
Correct Answer: ÷ x +
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Choose a fixed sequence of three operators to make the given equality true. Standard precedence (× and ÷ before + and −) applies on the left side before comparing to the right side.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Template: 8 {s1} 8 {s2} 1 {s3} 7 = 8
Concept / Approach:Because the target is small (8), aim to reduce early by division and avoid inflating too much with multiplication until after division.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Option C yields: 8 ÷ 8 × 1 + 7.Compute: 8 ÷ 8 = 1; 1 × 1 = 1; 1 + 7 = 8.Thus LHS = 8, matching RHS = 8.Verification / Alternative check:Test other options quickly and you will get values not equal to 8 (e.g., 8 + 8 × 7 = 64; 8 × 8 ÷ 1 + 7 = 71).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:They over- or under-shoot due to the order of operations.
Common Pitfalls:
- Ignoring that ×/÷ happen before + on the left-hand side.
Final Answer:÷ x +