Evaluate. Write your answer as a fraction or whole number without exponents. 4^−2 =

To evaluate ( 4^{-2} ), we first need to understand what a negative exponent means. A negative exponent indicates that we take the reciprocal of the base raised to the positive value of the exponent.

So,

[

4^{-2} = frac{1}{4^2}

]

Now, we calculate ( 4^2 ):

[

4^2 = 16

]

Putting it together, we have:

[

4^{-2} = frac{1}{16}

]

Thus, the answer is:

[

frac{1}{16}

]

If you need any further assistance or more clarification, feel free to ask!

To evaluate (4^{-2}), we use the property of exponents that states (a^{-n} = frac{1}{a^n}).

1. First, rewrite (4^{-2}) as (frac{1}{4^2}).
2. Now calculate (4^2), which is (16).
3. Therefore, (4^{-2} = frac{1}{16}).

So, the answer is (frac{1}{16}). If you have more questions or need further help, feel free to ask!