Arithmetic Operators
Learn how to perform calculations in Python using arithmetic operators.
What you'll learn:
- The basic arithmetic operators: +, -, *, /
- Integer division (//) and modulo (%)
- Order of operations (BIDMAS/BODMAS)
- Using brackets to control calculation order
Learning Path
Follow these activities in order.
1. Predict: What's the result?
Predict what calculations will output.
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2. Study: Worked Example
See how arithmetic operators work step by step.
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3. Investigate: Trace Calculations
Track how values change through calculations.
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4. Modify: Arrange the Code
Put code blocks in order to perform calculations.
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5. Test: Knowledge Quiz
Check your understanding of arithmetic operators.
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Key Vocabulary
operator
A symbol that performs an operation on values. +, -, *, /
operand
The values that an operator works on. In 5 + 3, 5 and 3 are operands.
integer division
Division that gives a whole number result. 7 // 2 = 3
modulo
The remainder after division. 7 % 2 = 1
expression
A combination of values, variables, and operators. x + 5 * 2
BIDMAS
Order of operations: Brackets, Indices, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction.
Quick Reference
operators_examples.py
# Basic arithmetic operators
print(10 + 3) # Addition: 13
print(10 - 3) # Subtraction: 7
print(10 * 3) # Multiplication: 30
print(10 / 3) # Division: 3.333...
# Integer division and modulo
print(10 // 3) # Integer division: 3
print(10 % 3) # Modulo (remainder): 1
# Exponentiation (powers)
print(2 ** 3) # 2 to the power of 3: 8
# Order of operations (BIDMAS)
print(2 + 3 * 4) # 14 (multiplication first)
print((2 + 3) * 4) # 20 (brackets first)