Mathematical Inequality: Which Value is Larger?

To determine which value is greater, let's simplify each choice:

Choice 1: $(a^2)^4$
By using the power of a power rule: $(x^m)^n = x^{m \times n}$, it simplifies to:
$(a^2)^4 = a^{2 \times 4} = a^8$.

Choice 2: $a^2 + a^0$
Evaluate using the zero exponent rule, $a^0 = 1$:
This expression becomes $a^2 + 1$.

Choice 3: $a^2 \times a^1$
Apply the product of powers rule: $x^m \times x^n = x^{m+n}$:
This simplifies to $a^{2+1} = a^3$.

Choice 4: $\frac{a^{14}}{a^9}$
Apply the quotient of powers rule: $\frac{x^m}{x^n} = x^{m-n}$:
This simplifies to $a^{14-9} = a^5$.

Now, let's compare these simplified forms:
We have $a^8$, $a^2 + 1$, $a^3$, and $a^5$.

For $a > 1$, exponential functions grow rapidly, thus:
- $a^8$ is greater than $a^5$.
- $a^8$ is greater than $a^3$.
- $a^8$ is greater than $a^2 + 1$ for sufficiently large $a$.

Thus, the expression with the highest power, and therefore the greatest value, is $(a^2)^4$.