How to Find z in a Complex Algebra 2 Problem?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding an integer z in the equation x^x * y^y = z^z, where x and y are defined in terms of powers of 3 and 2. The context is within a complex algebra framework, specifically related to exponential expressions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss taking the logarithm of both sides as a potential approach but express uncertainty about its effectiveness. There are suggestions to substitute the values of x and y into the equation and simplify, though concerns about the complexity of the resulting expressions are raised.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different methods of tackling the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding assumptions about z based on the nature of x and y, indicating a possible direction for further exploration.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that x and y are large numbers, which may complicate direct calculations. There is also a hint that assumptions about z's nature could simplify the problem.

de.bug
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x = 3^6 * 2^12
y = 3^8 * 2^8
x^x * y^y = z^z for some integer z

Find z.

I took the log of both sides, but don't know what to do next (I'm not even sure taking log of both sides will produce anything).
 
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de.bug said:
x = 3^6 * 2^12
y = 3^8 * 2^8
x^x * y^y = z^z for some integer z

Find z.

I took the log of both sides, but don't know what to do next (I'm not even sure taking log of both sides will produce anything).

Welcome to PF, de.bug! :smile:

What about simply substituting x and y in x^x * y^y and simplifying?
 
I like Serena said:
What about simply substituting x and y in x^x * y^y and simplifying?
That is a going to get more than a bit unwieldy. x and y are already fairly big numbers. x^x and y^y are incredibly large numbers.


de.bug said:
I took the log of both sides, but don't know what to do next (I'm not even sure taking log of both sides will produce anything).

Hint: You need to make some assumption about the nature of z. What do the nature of x and y suggest? With the right assumption, taking the log of both sides will lead to the solution.
 
D H said:
That is a going to get more than a bit unwieldy. x and y are already fairly big numbers. x^x and y^y are incredibly large numbers.

It won't be unwieldy.
As long as you don't actually calculate anything, but stick to powers of 2 and 3, the result is obtained in 6 lines.
 

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