The Importance of Parentheses

Oct 13, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 34 views

Introduction

Mathematics is a fascinating subject that requires critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. In this article, we will explore the first step in solving a mathematical problem, which is to subtract 1 from 8.5. We will also discuss the importance of parentheses in mathematical expressions and how to choose the correct placement of parentheses.

The Problem

The problem states: "The first step in a problem is to subtract 1 from 8.5. Choose the two letters that show where the parentheses should be placed."

Understanding the Problem

To solve this problem, we need to understand the concept of parentheses in mathematical expressions. Parentheses are used to group numbers and operations together, making it clear how to perform the calculations. In this case, we need to subtract 1 from 8.5, but we are not given the correct placement of parentheses.

The Options

We are given four options: A, B, C, and D. Each option represents a different placement of parentheses. Let's analyze each option:

Option A

( )

This option suggests that the parentheses should be placed around the entire expression, 6 × 8.5. However, this is not the correct placement of parentheses, as we are trying to subtract 1 from 8.5, not multiply 6 by 8.5.

Option B

C. ( )

This option suggests that the parentheses should be placed around the number 6. However, this is not the correct placement of parentheses, as we are trying to subtract 1 from 8.5, not multiply 6 by 8.5.

Option C

6 × ( )

This option suggests that the parentheses should be placed around the number 8.5. However, this is not the correct placement of parentheses, as we are trying to subtract 1 from 8.5, not multiply 6 by 8.5.

Option D

This option suggests that the parentheses should be placed around the number 1. However, this is not the correct placement of parentheses, as we are trying to subtract 1 from 8.5, not multiply 1 by 8.5.

The Correct Answer

After analyzing each option, we can conclude that the correct placement of parentheses is not among the options provided. However, we can use the process of elimination to determine the correct answer.

The correct answer is not A, B, C, or D. Instead, the correct answer is to subtract 1 from 8.5, which can be written as:

8.5 - 1

This expression does not require parentheses, as the order of operations is clear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the first step in solving a mathematical problem is to understand the concept of parentheses and how to use them correctly. In this case, we were given a problem that required us to subtract 1 from 8.5, but we were not given the correct placement of parentheses. By analyzing each option and using the process of elimination, we can determine the correct answer.

The Importance of Parentheses

Parentheses are an essential part of mathematical expressions, as they help to clarify the order of operations. Without parentheses, mathematical expressions can be ambiguous and difficult to understand. In this case, the correct placement of parentheses is not among the options provided, but we can use the process of elimination to determine the correct answer.

Real-World Applications

Parentheses are used in a variety of real-world applications, including:

Computer programming: Parentheses are used to group code together and make it clear how to perform calculations.
Science and engineering: Parentheses are used to group numbers and operations together, making it clear how to perform calculations.
Finance: Parentheses are used to group numbers and operations together, making it clear how to perform calculations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the first step in solving a mathematical problem is to understand the concept of parentheses and how to use them correctly. By analyzing each option and using the process of elimination, we can determine the correct answer. Parentheses are an essential part of mathematical expressions, and they are used in a variety of real-world applications.

Final Thoughts

Mathematics is a fascinating subject that requires critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. By understanding the concept of parentheses and how to use them correctly, we can solve mathematical problems with ease. In this article, we explored the first step in solving a mathematical problem, which is to subtract 1 from 8.5. We also discussed the importance of parentheses in mathematical expressions and how to choose the correct placement of parentheses.