Interchange one pair of signs to make the equation true: 5 × 15 ÷ 7 − 20 + 4 = 77

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: + and ÷

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We must swap one pair of operators globally so that the evaluated left side equals 77.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Expression: 5 × 15 ÷ 7 − 20 + 4.
  • Target value: 77.


Concept / Approach:
Check each candidate swap; recompute with standard precedence.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Swap “+” and “÷” (Option C): the expression becomes 5 × 15 + 7 − 20 ÷ 4.Compute: 5 × 15 = 75; then +7 → 82; 20 ÷ 4 = 5; finally 82 − 5 = 77 ✔.


Verification / Alternative check:
Other swaps (e.g., ×↔÷ or −↔+) do not reach 77.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They give values like ~26.7, −72.9, etc., not 77.


Common Pitfalls:
Accidentally swapping only a single occurrence instead of all.


Final Answer:
+ and ÷.

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