A short arithmetic question can start a lively discussion, especially when the expression mixes addition with multiplication. Try working out the problem in the picture before checking the explanation below.
The Answer
10. Follow the standard order of operations: multiply first, then add. Since five multiplied by zero equals zero, the expression becomes 5 + 0 + 5, which equals 10. Adding first would lead to the wrong answer.
Why the Order Matters
Multiplication and division take precedence over addition and subtraction in conventional arithmetic. The zero in this puzzle makes the middle term disappear, but it does not change the first or last five.
Check Your Result
The answer is 10. Did you get that on your first attempt? Compare your reasoning with someone else and try another short arithmetic challenge.
