Final answer:
After evaluating each operation between pairs of numbers, it becomes apparent that the given symbols and numbers cannot be arranged in a simple left-to-right manner to make the equation 36 1 3 2 = 20 true. Additional or more complex operations would be required.
Step-by-step explanation:
To make the equation 36 1 3 2 = 20 true, we need to identify the correct symbols to place between the numbers. Given the options a) +, b) -, c) ×, d) ÷, we can perform a quick check of operations to determine the correct sequence.
Firstly, let's evaluate each symbol with the first pair of numbers (36 and 1):
- 36 + 1 = 37
- 36 - 1 = 35
- 36 × 1 = 36
- 36 ÷ 1 = 36
None of these results equal 20, but we can notice that division is the only operation that can significantly reduce the value of 36 closer to 20. Now let's assume the division sign goes first and evaluate the next pair of numbers (3 and 2):
- 3 + 2 = 5
- 3 - 2 = 1
- 3 × 2 = 6
- 3 ÷ 2 does not result in a whole number
Since we are starting with a division and want to end up with 20, we need a result of >20 when we divide 36 by the outcome of the next operation. The multiplication of 3 and 2 gives us 6, which is a factor of 36 and will result in 36 ÷ 6 = 6. Now we need to combine that with 1 to get closer to 20. Since we need to increase the number 6, subtraction or division will not work. Therefore, we can try addition: 6 + 1 = 7. Finally, we divide 3 by 2 to get a number to multiply with 7: 3 ÷ 2 = 1.5, which will not help us. But if we multiply 3 by 2, we get 6, and when that's multiplied by 7, we indeed get 42, which does not lead us to 20.
Through this process of elimination, we find that none of the operations can give us 20 using these exact placements of symbols. However, if we consider more complex arrangements or use the symbols multiple times, we may find a solution. Unfortunately, with the given options, there isn't a clear and direct way to make this equation true.