Maths expert reveals the correct answer to viral maths equation ‘8 ÷ 2(2 + 2)’

Maths expert Professor Keith Devlin, from California's Stanford University, is based at the University of Huddersfield while he completes a Leverhulme Visiting Professorship.  We quizzed him about the viral maths equation that everyone has been talking about and asked him what he thought the correct answer was.

8/2(2+2) - Is it 1, 16 or something else?

The entire internet was divided over the answer to the viral maths question '8 ÷ 2(2 + 2)' because of the two apparently 'correct' answers that can be calculated, 16 or 1.  The equation went viral as millions of people around the world argued over the answer they thought was correct.

Maths expert Professor Keith Devlin, originally from California's Stanford University, is based at the University of Huddersfield while he completes a Leverhulme Visiting Professorship and we quizzed him about the equation.  He reveals that, in actual fact, both calculations, 16 and 1, are both incorrect.  Find out why in the video.

Professor Devlin also spoke to us about how mathematics education has changed over the years, what needs to be done to bring it more up to date and the Leverhulme Visiting Professorship he is currently completing with the University's School of Computing and Engineering

Professor Keith Devlin is quoted the world over saying that all of the mathematical methods he learned at university have since become obsolete.  We asked him how maths education has changed over the years and what he thinks should happen to maths education to make it current and up to date?

Related videos

Current climate models need improving

Geophysicist Dr Phil Hwang is to embark on an Arctic expedition to gain a better understanding of Arctic sea ice melt

Watch the video

Mathematician solves why stout bubbles sink

Professor William Lee's research featured on the Discovery Channel which concluded we are drinking Guinness and Stout all wrong

Watch the video

Subscribe to the University's YouTube news channel

The University produces lots of content featuring research, VIP interviews, Royal visits, guest lectures and more

Watch more videos