The formula to calculate the power dissipated in the first case can be written as
P1=RV02...(1)
When the wire is halved, its resistance will also become half the previous value.
Thus, the formula to calculate the power dissipated in the second case can be written as
P2==2RV02×2R4V02...(2)
Divide equation (2) by equation (1) to calculate the required ratio.
P1P2===RV02R4V02416
Hence, x=16.