Final answer:
The equation 5 = log2 Z translates to Z = 2^5 in exponential form, and when calculated, Z equals 32.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asked to write the equation 5 = log2 Z as an exponential function and solve for the variable Z. When working with logarithms, we can use the property that if a = logbc, then c = ba. Therefore, translating the given logarithmic equation to an exponential form we get Z = 25.
The value of Z is thus 2 raised to the power of 5. Using our knowledge of powers, we calculate that Z = 25 = 32. Hence, the correct answer is Z = 32, which corresponds to option b).