This mathematics problem involves applying core mathematical principles and formulas. Below you will find a complete step-by-step solution with detailed explanations for each step, helping you understand not just the answer but the method behind it.
ScanSolve AI Answer
Step 1: Identify the given equation. The visible part of the equation is ...^-4 = 16. Let the unknown base be x. So, the equation is x^-4 = 16. Step 2: Rewrite the exponent using the property (a^m)^n = a^mn. We can write x^-4 as (x^-2)^2. Substituting this into the equation gives: (x^-2)^2 = 16 Step 3: Solve for x^-2 by taking the square root of both sides. sqrt((x^-2))^2 = ± sqrt(16) x^-2 = ± 4