Are There Negative Solutions for this Exponential Equation?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around an exponential equation of the form 3^x^2 + 20 = (1/27)^(3x). Participants explore the implications of negative solutions for x and the validity of these solutions within the context of exponential functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the transformation of the equation and the resulting quadratic form. There are questions about the validity of negative solutions and the implications of having negative exponents. Some participants reference similar problems to draw parallels and question the assumptions made in the original poster's approach.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights and clarifications regarding the nature of solutions to exponential equations. There is a mix of agreement on the validity of negative solutions and concerns about the interpretation of mathematical expressions, particularly regarding the use of parentheses.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the original poster may not have covered logarithms yet, which could impact their understanding of solving exponential equations. There is also emphasis on the importance of proper notation in mathematical expressions.

aisha
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K the question is 3^x^2+20=(1/27)^3x
well I got 3^x^2+20=(3^-3)^3x
the exponents make a quadratic function so i just set it = to 0 and factored to solve for x but this is what i got (x+4)(x+5) this means x=-4, or -5 but doesn't that mean there is no solution? We are not doing Log yet.
 
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(don't forget parentheses when writing expressions)

but doesn't that mean there is no solution?

Okay... why?
 
Ok i don't know because this question seemed similar to an example problem I had, this A one look below

22x-2x=12 You can convert both sides of the equation to a common base; however, you can solve this exponential equation algebraically (without graphing calculator). Make sure you know how to solve this type of question algebraically.

(2x)2-2x=12 apply law of exponent

Now, if you take a close look, this equation looks like a quadratic equation. Let A be 2x, and rewrite the equation.

A2-A=12

A2-A-12=0

(A+3) (A-4)=0

A= -3 or A= 4

Therefore, 2x= -3, or 2x= 4.

The first equation, 2x= -3, has no solution since any positive base raised to any exponent results in a positive value.

The second equation, 2x=4, gives:
2x =22

Therefore, x = 2.
 
I did this problem wrong for sure can someone help me out please :confused:
 
aisha said:
Ok i don't know because this question seemed similar to an example problem I had, this A one look below

22x-2x=12 You can convert both sides of the equation to a common base; however, you can solve this exponential equation algebraically (without graphing calculator). Make sure you know how to solve this type of question algebraically.

(2x)2-2x=12 apply law of exponent

Now, if you take a close look, this equation looks like a quadratic equation. Let A be 2x, and rewrite the equation.

A2-A=12

A2-A-12=0

(A+3) (A-4)=0

A= -3 or A= 4

Therefore, 2x= -3, or 2x= 4.

The first equation, 2x= -3, has no solution since any positive base raised to any exponent results in a positive value.

The second equation, 2x=4, gives:
2x =22

Therefore, x = 2.

I don't mean to be mean,but u have a MAJOR DISSRESPECT FOR THE NOTION OF PARANTHESIS.
When writing down mathematical expressions,paranthesis mean a great deal,since u could get absurd results without taking them into consideration/interpreting the existing ones in a wrong way.
Now,to answer your first post,since the second contained no question,the sollutions u found "x=-4",are and "x=-5" are pefect and more,are unique,and they both check the initial equation as u can easily check.
Note that this time there's noi other equation of the kind "a^{x}=negative number",as in the example posted above.The negative numbers are just the sollution and they needn't be equalled to and exponential function.
Anyway,i find awkward that u study exponential equations before logarithms,as most solutions of such equations can be given in terms of logarithms.
 
X being negative does not make it a invalid solution, it's perfectly okay to have negative exponent values, the solutions are -4, -5.
 
Nothing said:
X being negative does not make it a invalid solution, it's perfectly okay to have negative exponent values, the solutions are -4, -5.

Thanks Nothing that's all I wanted to know. :smile:
 
dextercioby said:
I don't mean to be mean,but u have a MAJOR DISSRESPECT FOR THE NOTION OF PARANTHESIS.
When writing down mathematical expressions,paranthesis mean a great deal,since u could get absurd results without taking them into consideration/interpreting the existing ones in a wrong way.
Now,to answer your first post,since the second contained no question,the sollutions u found "x=-4",are and "x=-5" are pefect and more,are unique,and they both check the initial equation as u can easily check.
Note that this time there's noi other equation of the kind "a^{x}=negative number",as in the example posted above.The negative numbers are just the sollution and they needn't be equalled to and exponential function.
Anyway,i find awkward that u study exponential equations before logarithms,as most solutions of such equations can be given in terms of logarithms.

YES THANKYOU FOR UR COMMENTS AND HELP
 

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