Find the correct sequence of arithmetic signs (from left to right) to place between the numbers 24, 16 and 8 so that the resulting equation is true and equals 32: 24 ? 16 ? 8 ? 32.

Introduction / Context:
This is a mathematical operations puzzle, where you must choose the correct group of arithmetic signs to make a given equation true. Such questions test your understanding of basic operations and order, and they also encourage quick mental calculation and pattern recognition.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The expression is 24 ? 16 ? 8 ? 32.
• We must insert three signs, in order, from a given option set, so that the equation evaluates to 32.
• Available sequences of signs are:
  • ÷ - =
  • - + =
  • × ÷ =
  • + - =

Concept / Approach:
The idea is to interpret each option as giving the signs between the numbers: 24 (first sign) 16 (second sign) 8 (third sign) 32. Then we compute the left-hand side and see whether it equals 32. We also use our intuition: addition and subtraction near 24, 16 and 8 are more likely to produce 32 than arbitrary division or multiplication, so we can test likely candidates first.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Option a: 24 ÷ 16 - 8 = 32? Compute left side: 24 ÷ 16 = 1.5, then 1.5 - 8 = -6.5. This is not 32. Option b: 24 - 16 + 8 = 32? Compute: 24 - 16 = 8, then 8 + 8 = 16, not 32. Option c: 24 × 16 ÷ 8 = 32? Compute: 24 × 16 = 384, then 384 ÷ 8 = 48, not 32. Option d: 24 + 16 - 8 = 32? Compute: 24 + 16 = 40, and 40 - 8 = 32, which matches the required result. Therefore the correct sequence of signs is + - =.

Verification / Alternative check:
Once we find that 24 + 16 - 8 = 32, we can quickly verify by mental arithmetic: 24 + 16 is clearly 40, and subtracting 8 gives 32. No other sequence gives 32 when checked, so the answer is confirmed.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
÷ - =: Produces a negative value, not 32.
- + =: Gives 16, because 24 minus 16 plus 8 equals 16.
× ÷ =: Gives 48, far from 32.

Common Pitfalls:
Sometimes learners misread the pattern and assume the last sign is not an equality sign, or they inadvertently change the order of operations. In this problem the sequence is straightforward and operations are evaluated from left to right with only addition, subtraction, multiplication or division before the equality sign. Staying organised and testing each option systematically prevents confusion.

Final Answer:
The correct group of signs is + - =, since 24 + 16 - 8 = 32.