when solving the exponential equation, 2^2x-1=16 what do I do first? do I convert to a log equation?

Answer 1

I would take the log base 2 of each side.

Answer 2

I think you mean 2^(2x-1) = 16

taking logs would be the hard way of doing it.
Notice that 16 is a power of 2, namely 16 = 2^4
so 2^(2x-1) = 2^4

clearly 2x-1 = 16
2x=17
x = 17/2

Answer 3

<clearly 2x-1 = 16>

I meant to type

clearly 2x-1 = 4
2x=5
x=5/2