5. MP Use Tools Write an expression with a single exponent that is equivalent to \( 8^{-4} \cdot\left(8^{2}\right)^{4} \). State what strategy and tool you will use to answer the question, explain your choice, and then find the answer.
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The Deep Dive
To tackle this expression, we'll use the laws of exponents, specifically the product of powers and the power of a power. The strategy here involves simplifying the expression step-by-step by applying these rules. The product of powers states that when multiplying two exponential expressions with the same base, we can add their exponents: \( a^m \cdot a^n = a^{m+n} \). Furthermore, the power of a power rule states that \( (a^m)^n = a^{m \cdot n} \). Now, let's simplify the expression \( 8^{-4} \cdot (8^{2})^{4} \): 1. First, apply the power of a power rule: \( (8^{2})^{4} = 8^{2 \cdot 4} = 8^{8} \). 2. Now the expression becomes \( 8^{-4} \cdot 8^{8} \). 3. Next, use the product of powers rule: \( 8^{-4 + 8} = 8^{4} \). So, the equivalent expression with a single exponent is \( 8^{4} \).