Evaluate (1/2)²: Computing the Square of One-Half

Question

Insert the corresponding expression:

(12)2= \left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^2=

Video Solution

Solution Steps

00:00 Simplify the following problem
00:04 According to the laws of exponents, a fraction raised to a power (N)
00:08 equals the numerator and denominator, each raised to the same power (N)
00:11 We will apply this formula to our exercise
00:16 Let's calculate each power and substitute accordingly , 1 raised to any power is always equal to 1
00:25 This is the solution

Step-by-Step Solution

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Identify the given fraction and power: 12 \frac{1}{2} and the power 2 2 .
  • Step 2: Apply the formula (ab)n=anbn(\frac{a}{b})^n = \frac{a^n}{b^n}.
  • Step 3: Calculate the numerator as 12=1 1^2 = 1 .
  • Step 4: Calculate the denominator as 22=4 2^2 = 4 .
  • Step 5: Combine the results to find (12)2=14\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^2 = \frac{1}{4}.

Now, let's work through each step in detail:
Step 1: The fraction given is 12 \frac{1}{2} and the power is 2.
Step 2: Applying the formula (ab)n=anbn(\frac{a}{b})^n = \frac{a^n}{b^n}, we have:
Step 3: Calculate 12=1 1^2 = 1 .
Step 4: Calculate 22=4 2^2 = 4 .
Step 5: Compile these to get 14\frac{1}{4}.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 14 \frac{1}{4} , which matches choice 2.

Answer

14 \frac{1}{4}