Hi i really with dealing with logs

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around solving logarithmic equations, specifically the equation involving the difference of logarithms with different bases. Participants explore methods for manipulating logarithmic expressions and seek assistance in solving for the variable x.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the equation log_3(x) - log_9(x) = 2 and attempts to change the base of the logarithm to facilitate solving.
  • Another participant clarifies the notation used in the original post, indicating that the division was intended to represent a fraction.
  • A general formula for changing the base of logarithms is introduced, suggesting that log_9(x) can be expressed in terms of log_3(x).
  • One participant proposes solving the equation A - (1/2)A = 2 as a method to find log_3(x) and subsequently x.
  • A later reply mentions that a participant calculated x = 81 through trial and error and seeks an algebraic method for solving the final equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the manipulation of logarithmic expressions. There is no consensus on the best method to solve the equation, and some participants seek clarification on specific steps.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the dependence on the correct interpretation of logarithmic properties and the notation used, which may lead to confusion in the discussion.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or individuals seeking assistance with logarithmic equations, particularly those struggling with base changes and algebraic manipulation in mathematics.

akj
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Hi i really need help with dealing with logs:

log x - log x = 2
3 9

so i change the base, since 9 is a power of 3.

y = log_9(x)

Then

9^y = x

(3^2)^y = x

3^(2y) = x

2y = log_3(x)

log_3(x)
y = --------
2

Now i have

log_3(x)
log_3(x) - -------- = 2
2

but i am really stuck with dealing with the x please help!
 
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Since logarithms have nothing to do with "Linear and Abstract Algebra", I am moving this to "general math"
 
What do the ------ parts mean?
 
it's an attempt at writing division. For instance,

log_3(x)
y = --------
2

should read

y=\frac{\log_3{x}}{2}
 
Trying to interpret:
akj said:
Hi i really need help with dealing with logs:

log x - log x = 2
3 9
log3 x- log9 x= 2

so i change the base, since 9 is a power of 3.

y = log_9(x)

Then

9^y = x

(3^2)^y = x

3^(2y) = x

2y = log_3(x)

log_3(x)
y = --------
2
y= \frac{log_3(x)}{2}
There is a general formula that
log_a(x)= \frac{\log_b(x)}{log_b(a)}
where b is any positive number. In particular, taking b= 3 here
log_9(x)= \frac{\log_3(x)}{log_3(9)}= \frac{\log_3(x)}{2}

Now i have

log_3(x)
log_3(x) - -------- = 2
2
log3(x)- (1/2)log3(x)= 2


but i am really stuck with dealing with the x please help!
Could you solve A- (1/2)A= 2? If so then set log3(x) equal to that and solve for x by taking 3 to the power of each side.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
hi,

i have calculated that x = 81 which is correct, but i solved this with trial & error. How would i have solved the final section of this equation using algebra?
 
I asked before, "Could you solve A- (1/2)A= 2?" Are you saying you cannot solve that equation?
 

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