How should I interpret a formula without brackets?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Samwise-zambeezi
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    Algebra
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of a mathematical formula presented without brackets, specifically '1.2 . h - 0.2 . x'. Participants seek clarification on how to read and interpret the formula correctly, focusing on the implications of the absence of brackets.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, Zamb, questions whether the formula should be interpreted as '(1.2 . h) - (0.2 . x)'.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of the order of operations, referencing "PEMDAS" to explain that multiplication and division take precedence over addition and subtraction.
  • A third participant, Dan, agrees with Zamb's interpretation but expresses concern about the use of the dot for multiplication, suggesting it could lead to confusion without clear definitions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is some agreement on the interpretation of the formula, but there is also a disagreement regarding the clarity of using the dot for multiplication.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the potential for misinterpretation due to the notation used, indicating a need for clear definitions in mathematical expressions.

Samwise-zambeezi
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Hi all,

I have a formula which i might have expected to have brackets, but it hasn't, so i need to correctly interpret it.

Could anyone please offer any pointers as to how it should read?

The formula is '1.2 . h - 0.2 . x'

Can i assume that it should be '(1.2 . h) - (0.2 . x)'?

Thanks

Zamb
 
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You don't really need to "assume" that. Remember "PEMDAS" ("Please Excuse my dear aunt Sally")- Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtration. Multiplication and division have precedence over addition and subtraction.
 
Samwise-zambeezi said:
Hi all,

I have a formula which i might have expected to have brackets, but it hasn't, so i need to correctly interpret it.

Could anyone please offer any pointers as to how it should read?

The formula is '1.2 . h - 0.2 . x'

Can i assume that it should be '(1.2 . h) - (0.2 . x)'?

Thanks

Zamb
To be a bit more direct,.. Yes, that would be correct. However I still don't like it because it really reads 1*2*h - 0*2*x. Never use "." for multiplication unless you have defined it unambiguously!

-Dan
 
Hi both,

thanks a lot for your feedback, much appreciated,

Zambeezi
 

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