Ambiguous Math: Juxtaposition vs Multiplication?

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Deagonx
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Multiplication
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the ambiguity in mathematical notation, specifically the use of juxtaposition versus multiplication. Participants explore how parentheses and the placement of variables can lead to different interpretations of mathematical expressions, particularly in the context of the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS).

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the clarity of mathematical expressions when parentheses are used incorrectly, citing an example of division and juxtaposition.
  • Another participant references a previous lengthy discussion on the same topic, indicating that it has been a point of contention in the community.
  • A participant seeks a clear definition of juxtaposition and its application within the order of operations.
  • One participant suggests that juxtaposition and multiplication rank equally, based on the results of a poll from a related thread.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism towards consensus views, emphasizing that juxtaposition implies closeness and questions whether it takes precedence over standard multiplication and division.
  • A later reply reiterates that juxtaposition is treated as ordinary multiplication, but warns about nonstandard conventions and stresses the importance of clarity in formulas.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the precedence of juxtaposition compared to multiplication and division. There is no clear consensus on the matter, with some participants trusting the consensus while others remain skeptical.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the ambiguity in notation and the potential for misinterpretation, highlighting the need for clarity in mathematical expressions. The discussion reflects varying interpretations of the order of operations and the role of juxtaposition.

Deagonx
Messages
22
Reaction score
0
I am wondering about ambiguous use of maths. Is there a clear answer?


When you use parenthesis incorrectly the answer can come very unclear.


For Example:

A / B(C)

Is quite ambiguous. Do you do the division first, or do you do the multiplication because of the juxtaposition.

I placed a question using that formula into WolfRamAlpha, two different Scientific Calculators, my computers built in calculator, and google.


They all ended up with the answer using the division first.

Without arguing, can someone explain to me juxtaposition? Why does it take priority over regular multiplication.

‎
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
That does not answer my question. What exactly is juxtaposition?Where does it apply in PEMDAS/BODMAS?
 
It's ambiguous notation (as you can tell from the poll results from the thread Mark posted), but if you look at the other thread it looks like the consensus is that juxtaposition and multiplication rank equally.
 
I don't generally trust the consensus.The term 'juxtaposition' implies being very close to. Hence a(b)
Juxtaposition Multiplication... Does it come before regular multiplication and division?
 
Deagonx said:
I don't generally trust the consensus.


The term 'juxtaposition' implies being very close to. Hence a(b)
Juxtaposition Multiplication... Does it come before regular multiplication and division?
If the thread didn't answer your question, then you didn't read it. Juxtaposition is ordinary multiplication and multiplication and division together are done left to right. But beware people who adopt nonstandard conventions, and make your own formula clear.
 

Similar threads

High School PEMDAS and the Ambiguity of Mathematical Notation in Physics
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
6K
Undergrad Multiplication by Juxtaposition
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
26K
High School A proper comprehensive rule for arithmetic operation precendence
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
High School Creating Log Tables: Briggs' 400-Year-Old Accomplishment
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Undergrad Math Myth: You cannot divide by 0
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
High School What are multiplication and division?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
High School Deceptively simple geometry question on SAT test
  • · Replies 47 ·
2
Replies
47
Views
9K
Undergrad What is the role of geometry and dimensional operations?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
High School Tips on developing and improving number sense and basic math skills
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Undergrad Karatsuba multiplication implementation question
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K