Evaluate 1/2 a^-4b^2 for a=-2 and b=4

Answer 1

To evaluate the expression 1/2a^-4b^2 for a = -2 and b = 4, we substitute the given values into the expression.

1/2(-2)^-4(4)^2

First, we simplify the exponent of -2.

1/2(1/(-2)^4)(4)^2

Next, we evaluate (-2)^4 which is equal to 16.

1/2(1/16)(4)^2

Then we simplify (4)^2 which is equal to 16.

1/2(1/16)(16)

Now, we can multiply 1/2 and 1/16.

(1/2)(1/16)(16)

This simplifies to 1/2.

Therefore, 1/2a^-4b^2, for a = -2 and b = 4, is equal to 1/2.