Question

evaluate. write your
$4^{-2}=\square$

Explanation:

Step1: Apply negative exponent rule

A negative exponent indicates the reciprocal of the base raised to the positive exponent: $a^{-n} = \frac{1}{a^n}$
So, $4^{-2} = \frac{1}{4^2}$

Step2: Calculate positive exponent

Compute $4^2$: $4^2 = 4 \times 4 = 16$

Step3: Simplify the fraction

Substitute the result back: $\frac{1}{4^2} = \frac{1}{16}$

Answer:

$\frac{1}{16}$