Sometimes, the simplest math problems create the biggest arguments.

A mathematical puzzle has been attracting attention because two people appear to give completely different answers to the same question.

And surprisingly, both might be correct!

Here’s the equation:

230 − 220 ÷ 2 = ?

At first glance, it looks like something a fifth-grade student could solve.

One person confidently says the answer is 120.

But then someone with a PhD in mathematics gives a completely different response.

The mathematician says the answer is 5!

Naturally, people begin questioning how someone with advanced mathematical knowledge could arrive at such a different result.

Did the mathematician forget the basic rules of arithmetic?

Or is there something hidden in the answer that most people overlook?

Before continuing, take another look at the equation.

Remember the order of operations you learned in school.

Now consider this:

What if the mathematician’s answer contains a tiny symbol that changes everything?

Continue reading in Part 2 below to discover the surprising explanation.