\( \left. \begin{array} { | l | l | } \hline 2.4 & { 2 ^ { x } - 5.2 ^ { x + 1 } = - 144 } \\ \hline \end{array} \right. \)
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To tackle the equation \( 2^x - 5 \cdot 2^{x+1} = -144 \), it's helpful first to simplify. Notice that \( 5 \cdot 2^{x+1} = 10 \cdot 2^x \). Thus, the equation can be rewritten as: \[ 2^x - 10 \cdot 2^x = -144 \] This simplifies to: \[ -9 \cdot 2^x = -144 \] Dividing both sides by -9 gives: \[ 2^x = 16 \] Since \( 16 \) can be expressed as \( 2^4 \), we have: \[ x = 4 \] Now, let's quickly recap the solution: we transformed the equation into a simpler form, solved for \( 2^x \), and recognized that \( 16 \) equals \( 2^4 \). So, the final answer is \( x = 4 \). Now for some extra fun knowledge! Did you know that powers of two have fascinating applications in computer science? Every time you save a file or upload a picture, you’re likely working with binary data, which relies on powers of two. This means numbers like 2, 4, 8, 16, and so on are everywhere in technology, shaping how we store and process information! For further exploration, you might dive into “The Joy of x: A Guided Tour of Math, from One to Infinity” by Steven Strogatz. It beautifully marries complex mathematical concepts with real-life applications and is packed with engaging narratives that make numbers not just necessary but truly enjoyable!