SOLUTION: We avoid writing expressions like 32�8�2�2 because the order of the divisions isn�t clear. However, you can make the order clear if you insert enough parentheses. The value of 32�

Question 985997: We avoid writing expressions like 32�8�2�2 because the order of the divisions isn�t clear. However, you can make the order clear if you insert enough parentheses.
The value of 32�8�2�2 depends on where you put the parentheses. For example, ((32�8)�2)�2 = 1, but (32 � 8) � (2 � 2) = 4.
By inserting any number of parentheses wherever you want, what is the largest number you can make 32�8�2�2 come out to?
(Your answer should be an integer, not the expression with parentheses that gives you that integer.)
Answer by josgarithmetic(39618) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Using here the forward slash to mean DIVISION SYMBOL, your expression can be restated 32/8/2/2.

If no parentheses or grouping symbols are used, then the order of operations is strictly from left to right. This is understood to be the convention.

32/8/2/2
4/2/2
2/2
1

Yes, the value of 32/8/2/2 depends on where you place the parentheses, but none is used in your given expression; so the result is 1.

Try to start the parentheses nesting from the other end...
32/8/2/2
-
32/(8/(2/2))
32/(8/1)
32/8
4
-
Try moving the nesting one place leftward.
(32/(8/2)/2)
Now compute
32/4/2
8/2
4
-
Another way,
32/((8/2)/2)------------*
-
32/(4/2)
32/2
16-----------The way you expected. *
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