Can some one solve 8 / 2 (2+2)

[Guest]

I am having a debate with with people on what the answer to this problem is. I think it is 1, but more so I think the solution lies in how you interpret the problem. Do you guys have any input?

[HallsofIvy]

The problem is that this is poor notation and is ambiguous. You really need parentheses to show exactly what is meant.

(8/2)(2+ 2)= 4(4)= 16
but
8/(2(2+ 2))= 8/(2(4))= 8/8= 1.

It is impossible from "8/2(2+2)" to tell which is meant.