First, express both sides of the equation in terms of powers of 2: 8=23 and 16=24. Thus, the equation becomes: (23)2x−4=(24)x−2. Simplifying: 23(2x−4)=24(x−2)⇒26x−12=24x−8. Since the bases are the same, equate the exponents: 6x−12=4x−8⇒2x=4⇒x=2. Quick Tip When solving exponential equations, express both sides in terms of the same base to simplify the comparison of exponents.