Think you can solve this without a calculator? The equation is 120 + 10 × 0 + 4 = ? It is short enough to do mentally, but there is one important rule to remember.
The correct math answer
124 is the correct answer.
How to calculate it
First, solve the multiplication: 10 × 0 = 0.
Now replace that part of the expression with zero. You get 120 + 0 + 4.
Add from left to right: 120 + 0 = 120, and 120 + 4 = 124.
The common mistake
Some people solve the expression strictly from left to right, starting with 120 + 10. That overlooks the order of operations. Multiplication is evaluated before addition, even when it appears in the middle of the line.
Another confusion is the zero. Multiplying a number by zero produces zero, but it does not erase the numbers elsewhere in the expression.
Test your mental math
These short puzzles are useful for keeping basic arithmetic skills sharp. Did you get 124 immediately, or did you need a second look? Share this question with someone who enjoys a quick number challenge.
