Fill the four operator slots (in order) with one of the given sign sequences, placing an “=” in exactly one slot, so the statement balances: 2 * 4 * 3 * 4 * 9 Choose the correct ordered replacement (left→right).

Introduction / Context: We must replace the four “*” slots (between the five numbers) with the four signs from exactly one option, in that order, with one of the slots being an equals sign. Standard operator precedence (×, ÷ before +, −) applies on each side of “=”.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Numbers: 2 • 4 • 3 • 4 • 9 (four slots)
• Each option gives a left→right sequence of four symbols; one of them is “=”.
• Use standard precedence separately on LHS and RHS.

Concept / Approach: Test each sequence by inserting the symbols left→right. Only one should produce a true equality.

Step-by-Step Solution: Option (c): “x − + =” → 2 × 4 − 3 + 4 = 9 Evaluate LHS with precedence: 2 × 4 = 8; then 8 − 3 + 4 = 9 Thus 9 = 9 is true.

Verification / Alternative check: Other options fail, e.g., “+ × = −” gives 2 + 4 × 3 = 4 − 9 ⇒ 14 = −5 (false).

Why Other Options Are Wrong: They either locate “=” in a place that makes one side negative while the other is clearly positive, or violate equality under proper precedence.

Common Pitfalls: Ignoring precedence or inserting symbols out of order (not strictly left→right) leads to incorrect judgments.

Final Answer: x - + =