How to Solve Exponential Equations?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on solving exponential equations, specifically the equations 2^(x-1) - 2^x = 2^(-3) and 3^(x+1) + 3^x = 36. The first equation is simplified by factoring out 2^(x-1), leading to the conclusion that 2^(x-1) cannot equal -1/8, as it is outside the range of exponential functions. The second equation is solved by isolating 3^x, resulting in x = 2 after determining that 3^x = 9.

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froilan041
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Can anyone show me how to solve the following equations:

2^(x-1)-2^(x)=2^(-3)

3^(x+1)+3^(x)=36

I would greatly appreciate your assistance.
 
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2x-1=2x*2-1.

It should be a bit easier now.
 
Here is a general way to solve things like this
1. 2^{x-1}-2^{x} = 2^{-3}
Now factor out a 2^{x-1}
2^{x-1}(1 - 2) = 2^{3} \rightarrow 2^{x - 1} = -\frac{1}{8}
You can take the logarithm at this point or you could notice that -\frac{1}{8}<br /> is out of the range of 2^{x}

Similar approach
2. 3^{x+1} + 3^{x} = 36 \rightarrow<br /> 3^{x}(3 + 1) = 36 \rightarrow<br /> 3^{x} = 9 \rightarrow<br /> x = 2
 

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