How Can I Solve 2^n = 150 / 0.5 for n Using Logarithms?

[n108]

I needed help with this equation:
2^n = 150 / 0.5
I don't know how to solve for the unknown "n" (which in this problem is the number of half lives) if its the exponent of something. what do I do?

 

[Hootenanny]

Please do not post your questions here. They should be posted in the appropriate forums.

With respect to your question, take logs, that's all there is to it...

 

[berkeman]

Thread moved to Homework Help, Pre-Calculus Math.

n108, do you see a way that you could use logarithms to help you solve that equation for n?

 

[HallsofIvy]

First thing for you to do is divide 150/.5= 300. Now you have 2ⁿ= 300. Now 2⁸= 256 and 2⁹= 512. Since 300 is between 256 and 512, n is between 8 and 9. Do you know about logarithms?