Perform the division: 15 d i v 3 = 5 .
Perform the multiplication: 5 t im es 6 = 30 .
Perform the addition: 12 + 30 = 42 .
Perform the subtraction: 42 − 4 = 38 . The answer is 38 .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We are asked to evaluate the expression 12 + 15 d i v 3 t im es 6 − 4 and choose the correct answer from the given options. To do this, we must follow the order of operations, often remembered by the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division from left to right, Addition and Subtraction from left to right).
Performing the Division First, we perform the division: 15 d i v 3 = 5 . The expression now becomes 12 + 5 t im es 6 − 4 .
Performing the Multiplication Next, we perform the multiplication: 5 t im es 6 = 30 . The expression now becomes 12 + 30 − 4 .
Performing the Addition Now, we perform the addition: 12 + 30 = 42 . The expression now becomes 42 − 4 .
Performing the Subtraction Finally, we perform the subtraction: 42 − 4 = 38 .
Final Answer Therefore, the value of the expression is 38, which corresponds to option C.
Examples
Understanding the order of operations is crucial in many real-life scenarios, such as calculating expenses or determining the outcome of a series of events. For example, if you earn $12 per hour and work for 3 hours, then spend $5 on lunch and $2 on transportation, the total amount you have can be calculated using the order of operations: 12 × 3 − 5 − 2 = 36 − 5 − 2 = 29 . This skill is fundamental in managing finances and making informed decisions.
The value of the expression 12 + 15 ÷ 3 × 6 − 4 is 38, following the order of operations. The answer is C. It is calculated by performing division first, followed by multiplication, then addition, and subtraction last.
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