Basic Calculus: Solving for x in sinx(lnx)=0 over [0, 2pi]

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation sin(x) * ln(x) = 0 over the interval [0, 2π]. Participants are exploring the implications of the factors involved and the domain restrictions of the natural logarithm function.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to identify solutions by analyzing the factors sin(x) and ln(x). There is confusion regarding the manipulation of the equation and the implications of moving terms across the equality.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the number of solutions, with some participants suggesting different counts based on their interpretations of the factors involved. Clarifications about the nature of the equation as a product rather than a composition have been raised, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that one of the solutions for sin(x) = 0 is not valid due to the domain restrictions of ln(x), which adds complexity to the problem. There is also mention of the discussion being part of a summer review for calculus.

name_ask17
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Homework Statement



If sinx(lnx)=0 over [0, 2pi] then x=_____



The Attempt at a Solution



My attempt was to move sin over to the other side to get lnx= 0/sinx and then get lnx=0, making x=1. But is it incorrect to just move sinx over to the other side, because if i move lnx over to the other side, i would get x=0. Can you please explain to me what I am doing wrong here?
 
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Well, if those are factors; Sin(x) and ln(x). Then there are 4 solutions. You found ln(1)=0 then you just need to find those values that makes Sin(x)=0, one of the solutions are not legit since they are not defined by ln(x)

The question has nothing to do with calculus though :P
 
Last edited:
how do you know there are 4 solutions?
and yes, this is just our summer review to go into calc. lol
 
Then you should have posted this in the Precalculus subforum instead. :-p

There are 3 solutions because,
there is 1 solution in [0, 2π] where ln x = 0, and
there are 2 solutions in [0, 2π] where sin x = 0 (a 3rd is not in the domain of the ln x function).
 
Last edited:
eumyang said:
Then you should have posted this in the Precalculus subforum instead. :-p

There are 4 solutions because,
there is 1 solution in [0, 2π] where ln x = 0, and
there are 3 solutions in [0, 2π] where sin x = 0.
I get 3 solutions. One of the 3 solutions in [0, 2π] for which sin x = 0 is not in the domain of the ln function.
 
You can't really just move the sine over like that. Sin is an operator! What you need to do is consider what would make sin(something) = 0. (consult your unit circle). Once you have those 2 solutions, set the argument of the sin to that.
ln(x) = solution 1
ln(x) = solution 2
etc.
 
name_ask17 said:
If sinx(lnx)=0 over [0, 2pi] then x=_____

QuarkCharmer said:
You can't really just move the sine over like that. Sin is an operator! What you need to do is consider what would make sin(something) = 0. (consult your unit circle). Once you have those 2 solutions, set the argument of the sin to that.
ln(x) = solution 1
ln(x) = solution 2
etc.
QuarkCharmer, you're misreading the problem, which is understandable due to the way the OP wrote the problem. Howebver, the expression on the left is a product, not a composition. It's sin(x) * ln(x), not sin(ln(x)).
 
My mistake, feel free to delete my post(s)
 
Mark44 said:
One of the 3 solutions in [0, 2π] for which sin x = 0 is not in the domain of the ln function.
Ack, that's what I get for blinding following someone else's post. :redface: Post corrected.
 

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