Interchange one pair of signs to make the equation true: 15 ÷ 9 × 3 − 74 + 2 = 5

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: + and ÷

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We must find which global swap of a listed pair of operators makes the given equality hold.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Expression: 15 ÷ 9 × 3 − 74 + 2.
  • Goal: value equals 5.


Concept / Approach:
Test each candidate swap and compute with precedence.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Swap “+” and “÷” (Option C): becomes 15 + 9 × 3 − 74 ÷ 2.Compute: 9 × 3 = 27; 15 + 27 = 42; 74 ÷ 2 = 37; 42 − 37 = 5 ✔.


Verification / Alternative check:
Other swaps yield values far from 5.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They either significantly increase or decrease the total beyond 5.


Common Pitfalls:
Ignoring operator precedence when evaluating the swapped expression.


Final Answer:
+ and ÷.

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