Solve an index equation with a radical exponent: If √(2^n) = 64, find the value of n.
Aptitude
Surds and Indices
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A8
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B4
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C12
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D16
Answer
Correct Answer: 12
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Combining radicals with exponents requires converting everything to exponent form. Noting that √(2^n) = (2^n)^(1/2) = 2^(n/2) allows direct comparison to 64, a known power of 2.Given Data / Assumptions:
- √(2^n) = 64.
- 64 = 2^6.
Concept / Approach:Rewrite the radical as an exponent, equate powers of 2, and solve for n linearly. This is a standard exponent-matching technique used throughout indices problems.Step-by-Step Solution:
√(2^n) = (2^n)^(1/2) = 2^(n/2).Set 2^(n/2) = 2^6.Therefore, n/2 = 6 ⇒ n = 12.Verification / Alternative check:Check directly: 2^12 = 4096; √4096 = 64. Correct.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- 8, 4, 16: Yield √(2^n) values different from 64 (2^4=16 → √16=4; 2^8=256 → √256=16; 2^16 too large).
Common Pitfalls:Forgetting that √(a) = a^(1/2) or misidentifying 64 as 2^5 (it is 2^6).
Final Answer:
12