If $ represents +, @ represents ⇒, * represents ×, % represents ⇒, then what will be the result of the following expression? 12*4$16%4@6

Appeared in: ESIC Nursing Officer -2019 (Shift -1)

Explanation

The problem requires replacing symbols with their corresponding mathematical operations and solving the resulting expression.
The expression 12 * 4 $ 16 % 4 @ 6 translates to 12 × 4 + 16 ÷ 4 - 6.
Following the BODMAS rule, multiplication and division are performed first: 12 × 4 = 48 and 16 ÷ 4 = 4.
The expression simplifies to 48 + 4 - 6.
Finally, addition and subtraction are performed from left to right: 52 - 6 = 46.

Option B: This result (48) is obtained by only performing the first part of the calculation (12 × 4) and ignoring the rest of the expression.
Option C: This result (71) is a calculation error, likely from not following the correct order of operations (BODMAS).
Option D: This result (16) might be obtained by incorrectly prioritizing operations, for example, calculating (12 × 4 + 16) ÷ 4 which equals 64 ÷ 4 = 16, and then ignoring the final - 6 operation.

Visual 1: Infographic: An infographic explaining the BODMAS (or PEMDAS) rule with a clear, step-by-step example. This helps visualize the hierarchy of operations.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Mathematical Reasoning with Symbol Substitution as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question type is not directly related to clinical nursing practice but is included in nursing entrance exams to assess logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
These skills are essential for nurses who must think critically, perform calculations (e.g., for drug dosages), and make quick, logical decisions in fast-paced environments.
What if? If the BODMAS rule was ignored and the calculation was done strictly from left to right, the answer would be (12 × 4 + 16) ÷ 4 - 6 = (48 + 16) ÷ 4 - 6 = 64 ÷ 4 - 6 = 16 - 6 = 10, which is not among the options and demonstrates the importance of following the correct order of operations.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question and identify the mapping for each symbol to its mathematical operator.
Note any potential typos or ambiguities in the symbol definitions. In this case, recognize that '@' must represent subtraction to yield a valid answer from the options.
Write down the original expression and then rewrite it by substituting all the symbols with their correct operators.
Apply the BODMAS rule (Brackets, Orders, Division/Multiplication, Addition/Subtraction) to solve the new expression.
Perform calculations in the correct sequence: first division and multiplication (from left to right), then addition and subtraction (from left to right).
Compare your final result with the given options to find the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full ESIC Nursing Officer -2019 (Shift -1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.