BECE Mathematics 2026 Paper

Concept:If two powers with the same base are equal, their exponents are equal: $a^m = a^n \Rightarrow m = n$.Solution:Write 8 as a power of 2: $8 = 2 \times 2 \times 2 = 2^3$.So the equation becomes$2^{2m} = 2^3$The bases are both 2, so equate the exponents:$2m = 3$Divide both sides by 2:$m = \dfrac{3}{2} = 1.5$Check: $2^{2 \times 1.5} = 2^3 = 8$ ✓.Answer:Option C (1.5)