Exponents with different bases

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The discussion revolves around solving the equation 12^x = 4.8^(2x) using logarithmic properties. The user attempts to manipulate the equation by expressing it in terms of different bases and applying logarithmic rules. The solution process leads to the equation x log(3) = (4x + 2) log(2), which simplifies to x = (2 log(2)) / (log(3) - 4 log(2)). The approximate solution for x is found to be -0.82814. The thread highlights the challenges of working with exponents of different bases and the utility of logarithmic functions in finding solutions.
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Homework Statement


This is re-asking the question in https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=273275" which mysteriously went quiet before the answer could be given... Anyway I also tried answering the question, but to no avail.

Homework Equations


a^m.a^n=a^{m+n}
(a^m)^n=a^{mn}
log(ab)=loga+logb
log(a^b)=bloga

The Attempt at a Solution


12^x=4.8^{2x}
3^x.(2^2)^x=2^2(2^3)^{2x}
3^x.2^{2x}-2^{6x+2}=0
2^{2x}(3^x-2^{4x-2})=0

Hence, 2^{2x}=0 (1) or 3^x-2^{4x-2}=0 (2)
(1) has no solution.

(2) \Rightarrow 3^x=2^{4x+2}
xlog3=(4x+2)log2

How can one go about solving this? different bases? It gives an answer of x\approx -0.82814
 
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Oh hang on...

xlog3=(4x+2)log2
xlog3=4xlog2+2log2
x(log3-4log2)=2log2
x=\frac{2log2}{log3-4log2}

x\approx -0.82814449

Ahh never mind.
 
12^x = 4X8^(2x)
take logs of both sides: log(12x) = log(4 X 82x)
Get rid of the power 2 (althought not essential) log(12x) = log(4 X 64x)
Split RHS using the laws of logs and bring the powers out: x log(12) = log(4) + x log(64)
see if u can do the last step (hint collect all terms with x)
 
It would rather use log3.
 
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