Question

solve. write your answer as an integer or a fraction in simplest form.
$16^{x - 4} = 2$
$x = \square$

Explanation:

Step1: Rewrite base as power of 2

$16 = 2^4$, so substitute:
$2^{4(x-4)} = 2^1$

Step2: Set exponents equal

Since bases are equal, exponents match:
$4(x-4) = 1$

Step3: Solve for x

Expand and isolate x:
$4x - 16 = 1$
$4x = 17$
$x = \frac{17}{4}$

Answer:

$\frac{17}{4}$