Understanding Exponent Properties and Simplification

The video tutorial explains how to simplify the expression 2x - 4y = -2 using exponent properties. It begins by focusing on the number 16, expressing it as 4 squared or 2 to the fourth power. The tutorial then simplifies the numerator and denominator separately by applying exponent rules. Finally, it combines the results to achieve the simplified expression, demonstrating the process of subtracting exponents when dividing like bases.

What is the initial expression that needs to be simplified?

• 2x + 4y = 2

• 2x - 4y = -2

• 4x - 2y = 2

• 4x + 2y = -2

How can 16 be expressed using powers of 4?

• 4 to the power of 5

• 4 to the power of 1

• 4 to the power of 2

• 4 to the power of 3

What is the expression for the numerator after applying exponent properties?

• 4 to the power of 2x

• 4 to the power of x

• 2 to the power of 4x

• 2 to the power of x

How is the denominator expressed in terms of powers of 4?

• 4 to the power of 2y

• 4 to the power of 4y

• 4 to the power of y

• 4 to the power of 3y

What is the final simplified form of the expression?

• 1/4

• 1/8

• 1/16

• 1/32