Math Problem Statement
8^-2 = 4/4^(4x). What is the value of x?
Solution
We are given the equation:
Step 1: Simplify the left-hand side
We know that . So, the equation becomes:
Step 2: Simplify the right-hand side
We can rewrite the right-hand side as:
So the equation now becomes:
Step 3: Express 64 as a power of 4
Since , we can rewrite the left-hand side as:
Now the equation is:
Step 4: Set the exponents equal to each other
Since the bases are the same, we can equate the exponents:
Step 5: Solve for
Subtract 1 from both sides:
Now divide both sides by -4:
Final Answer:
The value of is .
Would you like more details or have any questions?
Here are some related questions to expand your understanding:
- How do you solve exponential equations with different bases?
- What is the general rule for negative exponents?
- How do you simplify fractions involving exponents?
- What happens when you equate exponents with the same base?
- Can exponents ever be negative, and how do they affect the value?
Tip: Always try to express all terms with the same base when solving exponential equations.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Exponential Equations
Negative Exponents
Exponent Properties
Formulas
a^m / a^n = a^(m-n)
Negative Exponent Rule: a^(-n) = 1/a^n
Theorems
Equality of Exponents: If a^m = a^n, then m = n
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-11