We are asked to evaluate $x^{\frac{1}{2}} = 4$. This means we need to find the value of $x$ that satisfies the equation.

1. Problem Description

We are asked to evaluate $x^{\frac{1}{2}} = 4$. This means we need to find the value of $x$ that satisfies the equation.

2. Solution Steps

To solve for $x$, we need to isolate $x$. Since $x$ is raised to the power of $\frac{1}{2}$, we can raise both sides of the equation to the power of 2 to undo the fractional exponent.

$(x^{\frac{1}{2}})^2 = 4^2$

Using the power of a power rule $(a^m)^n = a^{m \cdot n}$, we have:

$x^{\frac{1}{2} \cdot 2} = 4^2$

$x^1 = 4^2$

$x = 4^2$

Now, we calculate $4^2$:

$x = 4 \cdot 4$

$x = 16$

3. Final Answer

$x = 16$