In a certain code language, symbols are interchanged as follows: '-' means multiplication (*), '÷' means addition (+), '+' means division (/), and 'x' means subtraction (-). Using this decoding, find the correct value of: 12 - 6 + 4 x 10 ÷ 16 = ?

Introduction / Context:
This question evaluates your ability to decode swapped arithmetic operators and then compute the expression using normal precedence rules. The main trick is to avoid calculating before decoding the operators correctly.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• '-' represents multiplication (*).
• '÷' represents addition (+).
• '+' represents division (/).
• 'x' represents subtraction (-).
• After decoding, use standard precedence.

Concept / Approach:
Rewrite the original expression by replacing each symbol with its true meaning, then evaluate normally. Multiplication and division are done before addition and subtraction.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Original: 12 - 6 + 4 x 10 ÷ 16 Decode each operator: 12 - 6 becomes 12 * 6 6 + 4 becomes 6 / 4 (because + means /) 4 x 10 becomes 4 - 10 10 ÷ 16 becomes 10 + 16 Correct decoded expression (by operator positions): 12 * 6 / 4 - 10 + 16 Now compute: 12 * 6 = 72 72 / 4 = 18 18 - 10 + 16 = 24

Verification / Alternative check:
Once decoded, the first three terms simplify to 18. Then adding ( -10 + 16 ) = +6 gives 24, confirming consistency.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
14: from wrong precedence or wrong mapping of + and ÷. 5: from treating x as multiplication instead of subtraction. 2: from evaluating coded expression directly. 20: from arithmetic slip after correct decoding.

Common Pitfalls:
Decoding only some symbols, misreading operator positions, or doing addition before division/multiplication in the decoded expression are typical errors.

Final Answer:
24