Final answer:
To simplify 12⁴, multiply 12 by itself four times, resulting in the value 20,736.
Step-by-step explanation:
To simplify the expression 12⁴ entirely, we must calculate 12 raised to the fourth power. This involves multiplying 12 by itself four times: 12 × 12 × 12 × 12. Executing this multiplication yields 144 × 144, which equals 20,736.
The process of raising a number to an exponent signifies repeated multiplication of that number by itself according to the exponent's value. In this case, the exponent 4 indicates four repetitions of multiplying 12, resulting in a substantial product.
Therefore, 12⁴ simplifies to 20,736, demonstrating the power of exponentiation in efficiently expressing large numbers. This mathematical operation is fundamental in various fields, including physics, engineering, and computer science, where it facilitates concise representation of repetitive calculations and simplifies complex mathematical relationships. Understanding exponentiation enhances problem-solving abilities and lays the groundwork for more advanced mathematical concepts. In the context of 12⁴, the final outcome is a significant numerical value, showcasing the exponential growth inherent in repeated multiplicative processes.