Can a Taylor series approximation be used to solve a mixed logarithmic equation?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a mixed logarithmic equation of the form e^(-66/x)/x^2 = c, where c is a constant. The original poster attempts to find an approximate solution for x using logarithmic transformations and Taylor series approximations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster discusses taking the natural logarithm of both sides and rearranging the equation. They also consider using a Taylor series approximation for the ln(x) term to facilitate finding an approximate solution. Some participants question the feasibility of factoring x out of the equation, while others note the limitations of solving the equation in terms of elementary functions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various approaches to approximate the solution. There is recognition that the equation cannot be solved using elementary functions, which leads to a focus on approximation methods.

Contextual Notes

The original poster acknowledges the constraints of the Taylor series approximation, specifically that it is valid for |x| at most 1, which may limit the applicability of their approach.

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"mixed" logarithmic equation

Homework Statement


I'm trying to solve for x in the following equation: e^(-66/x)/x^2 = c, where c is a constant

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


By taking ln of both sides and then dividing by 2, I get to:

-33/x -ln(x) = c/2

Then, in order to get an approximate answer, I tried substituting e with its approximation up to a few decimal places, in the original problem statement, but that didn't get me far. I'm considering doing a Taylor series approximation for the 'ln(x)' term (i.e (x-1) - (x-1)^2 + (x-1)^3)) and then solving for x. Is there an easier and/or more precise and/or more direct way? Note, I understand that the taylor approximation I used is meant for x, such that |x| is at most 1. This is why I only went with 3 terms.

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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Have you considered arranging it in such a way where the X could be factored out?
 


Considered? Yes. But can't think of how.
 


The equation can't be solved in terms of elementary functions - in other words, you can't factor out an x - so you will need to find an approximate solution to the problem.
 

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