How to Solve for x in a Logarithmic Equation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the logarithmic equation $$\log_{x}\left({10}\right)+\log(x)=2$$ for the variable x. Participants explore various methods to approach the problem, including algebraic manipulation and substitution.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant attempts to solve the equation by changing the base and manipulating logarithmic properties but struggles to progress further.
  • Another participant suggests multiplying through by $\log(x)$ and substituting $u = \log(x)$ to form a quadratic equation.
  • Some participants question the clarity of the problem statement, particularly regarding the base of $\log(x)$.
  • One participant proposes that if $x=10$, the equation simplifies easily, but expresses uncertainty about whether this is the correct solution.
  • A later reply confirms that the quadratic approach worked, leading to the conclusion that $\log(x)=1$, thus $x=10$.
  • Several participants acknowledge misreading the problem statement, indicating confusion about the initial setup.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty about the problem statement and the base of the logarithm. While one participant arrives at a solution of $x=10$, there is no consensus on the correctness of the initial interpretation of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note potential misinterpretations of the problem, particularly regarding the base of the logarithm, which could affect the approach to solving the equation.

rtwikia
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The question is
$$\log_{x}\left({10}\right)+log(x)=2$$
where (obviously) I have to find x.

I tried changing the base,
$\frac{log(10)}{log(x)}+log(x)=2$
$\frac{1}{log(x)}+log(x)=2$
${log(x)}^{-1}+log(x)=log(100)$​
but I could go no further. Whatever I try, I always got a wrong answer.

By guessing and substitution, I found that the answer should be 10. But is there any formal method to find that out?:confused:
 
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Hint: multiply through by $\log(x)$ then substitute $u = \log(x)$, you are left with a quadratic equation in $u$.
 
rtwikia said:
The question is
$$\log_{x}\left({10}\right)+log(x)=2$$

Is this the correct problem statement? If so, what is the base of $\log(x)$?
 
greg1313 said:
Is this the correct problem statement? If so, what is the base of $\log(x)$?

Should be 10?
 
$$\log_x(10)+\log(10)=2$$

$$\log_x(10)=1$$

Can you continue?
 
Last edited:
greg1313 said:
$$\log_x(10)+\log(10)=2$$

$$\log_x(10)=1$$

Can you continue?

Of course, if it is known that x=10 then I can do that. However I'm not sure that 10 is the answer, so...I'll just try to solve the quadratic(Nerd)
 
Bacterius said:
Hint: multiply through by $\log(x)$ then substitute $u = \log(x)$, you are left with a quadratic equation in $u$.

YES it worked!(Rock)

$\log_{x}\left({10}\right)\cdot\log\left({x}\right)+(\log\left({x}\right))^2=2\cdot\log\left({x}\right)$
$\frac{1}{\log\left({x}\right)}\cdot\log\left({x}\right)+(\log\left({x}\right))^2=2\cdot\log\left({x}\right)$
$1+u^2=2u$
$u^2-2u+1=0$​
$u=\frac{-(-2)\pm\sqrt{4-4}}{2}=1$

$\log\left({x}\right)=1$
$x=10^1=10$

Thank you!:D
 
Yup. I misread the problem. Sorry about that. :o
 
greg1313 said:
Yup. I misread the problem. Sorry about that. :o

Never mind. Thanks anyway.:)
 

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