Why do electronic, digital calculators disagree? Internet buzzes over viral video | WATCH

As technological advancements swept sway 21st century, calculators have undergone a significant transformation. From the ancient abacus to the first solid-state electronic calculators of the 1960s, and now, their integration into our smartphones, the evolution is evident. A recent video surfacing on social media platforms has sparked a curious debate: why do electronic and digital calculators sometimes yield different results?

The viral video shared on X (formerly Twitter), captured the attention of netizens as it showcased a side-by-side comparison of an electronic calculator and a digital calculator on an iPhone. The user demonstrated a simple arithmetic operation: adding 50 to 50 and then multiplying the sum by 2. Surprisingly, while the digital calculator displayed a result of 150, the electronic calculator showed 200, indicating a discrepancy of 50.
 

Can you explain the different results?
pic.twitter.com/EAIR2kY5hc

— Science girl (@gunsnrosesgirl3) April 2, 2024

How do netizens justify the difference?

Social media users quickly flooded the comments section with theories and explanations. One user suggested that the difference lies in the order of operations: the phone adheres to the BODMAS principle (Brackets, Order, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction), while the electronic calculator may follow a different algorithm.

Yes IOS work in BODMAS Principle

Sequence of working:

1. B bracket
2. O of
3. D divide
4. M multiple
5. A addition
6. S subtraction

— Mohammad Amil (@mohammadamil66) April 2, 2024

Further elucidating, another user explained, "Phone calculated 50 (50*2) while Casio calculated (50 50)*2 solving the one in the bracket first … hope that helps!"

What was actual cause of difference in calculations?

This discrepancy in results can be attributed to the varying algorithms employed by different types of calculators. While a digital calculator in a cellphone may prioritize a sequential approach, an electronic or scientific calculator might adhere to a specific mathematical order.

Despite the technical nuances, the captivating video has gained over 71 million views on social media, igniting a thought-provoking discussion among users. As the debate continues, one thing remains clear: even in the digital age, the intricacies of technology can still surprise us.