If 'x' means '+', '+' means '÷', '÷' means '-' and '-' means 'x', what will come in place of question mark (?) in the following equation?

231 - 6 + 155 x 2233 ÷ 11 = ?

1. A

   1648

2. B

   1525

3. C

   1452

4. D

   1338

Appeared in: DSSSB 6 September 2024

Explanation

• The first step is to replace each mathematical operator in the equation with its new meaning as defined in the question.
• The expression 231 - 6 x 155 ÷ 2233 + 11 becomes 231 x 6 + 155 - 2233 ÷ 11 after substitution.
• The second step is to apply the BODMAS rule (Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction) to the new expression to ensure the correct order of operations.
• The calculation proceeds as follows: 2233 ÷ 11 = 203. Then, 231 x 6 = 1386. Next, 1386 + 155 = 1541. Finally, 1541 - 203 = 1338.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: This value is incorrect. It may be the result of one or more calculation errors or a failure to follow the strict order of operations defined by the BODMAS rule.
• Option B: This value is incorrect. It could be obtained by incorrectly applying the BODMAS rule, for example, performing addition or subtraction before multiplication or division.
• Option C: This value is incorrect. It likely results from a calculation mistake during one of the arithmetic steps (division, multiplication, addition, or subtraction).

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Mathematical Reasoning: Operator Substitution and BODMAS Rule as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• While not a direct clinical skill, logical and analytical reasoning are fundamental for nurses in problem-solving and critical thinking during patient care.
• This type of skill is transferable to clinical practice, such as when interpreting complex data from lab reports or following multi-step medication titration protocols.
• Accuracy in calculation is paramount in nursing to prevent medication errors and ensure patient safety.

How to Approach the Question

• First, carefully read the question to identify the mapping between the original mathematical operators and their new meanings.
• Create a clear substitution key (e.g., - becomes x, + becomes ÷, etc.) to avoid confusion.
• Rewrite the entire mathematical expression, replacing each operator with its new substituted operator.
• Apply the BODMAS rule (Brackets, Of, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction) to solve the newly formed expression.
• Perform the calculations in the correct sequence: first division, then multiplication, then addition, and finally subtraction.
• Compare your final result with the given options to find the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Mathematical Reasoning: Operator Substitution and BODMAS Rule
• Stem keywords: mathematical reasoning, operator substitution, BODMAS, equation
• Lead-in keywords: what will come

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QcEt9U8zYbdV-ganoGbXL_

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