Mixed Calculations
(+,-,*,/)
Mixed calculations are understood by the computer, but they are calculated within
certain priorities.
First priority is given to multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction.
These priorities apply only to calculations containing only these four operations.·
If the calculation was:
3+7-2*7/4
You may think this would be calculated as:
3+7-2 *7 14
=
8 *7 14
=
56/4
=
14
In fact it is calculated as:
3+7-2*7/4
=3+7-14/4
=3+7-3.5
=10-3.5
=6.5
Prove this by typing in this calculation as it is written:
Type:
? 3
+ 7 - 2
*
7 1 4
[RETURN]
6.5
You can change the way the computer calculated this by adding brackets. The
computer will deal with the calculation inside brackets prior to the multiplication
etc, outside the brackets. Prove this by typing in the calculation including brackets.
Type:
?
(3+7-2) *714
[RETURN]
14
Chapter 1 Page 36
Foundation Course