How to Solve Simultaneous Equations with Logarithms

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on solving simultaneous equations involving logarithms, specifically using the logarithmic identities and properties. The user successfully expresses logq2 in terms of p as logq2 = 1/4 p and logq(8q) as logq(8q) = 3/4 p + 1. The simultaneous equations presented are 8y = 42x + 3 and log2y = log2x + 4, with guidance provided on isolating y and substituting into the first equation. The discussion highlights the importance of correctly applying logarithmic properties to solve these equations.

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discombobulated
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I need some help with this please!

1. given p=logq 16, express in terms of p:
a) logq 2
b) logq (8q)

this is what i got:
a) p= logq16 = logq22
= 4logqqq
=1/4 p

b) p=logq16 =logq8 +logq q
=logq23 + 1
=3logq2 +1
...??

Also can someone please help get me started on these similtaneous equations?

8y =42x+3
log2 y = log2x +4

I'm not sure exactly how to equate them
 
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For the first one, the answer (\log_q2=p/4) is OK, but I have trouble understanding what you wrote before that.

For the second one, you can't assume that 16=8q. Otherwise, you're on the right track:

\log_q(8q)=\log_q8+\log_qq=3\log_q2+1

You already know what \log_q2 is in terms of p, so you're done.

EDIT:

For the third one, try to isolate y in terms of x from the second equation. Remember that \log_216=4. Then substitute that expression into the first equation and rewrite the eq. as a logarithm in base 8. Solve for x and then y.

EDIT2: Tnx, arildno, no wonder I didn't understand what he wrote, since it's wrong.

- Kamataat
 
Last edited:
discombobulated said:
Also can someone please help get me started on these similtaneous equations?

8y =42x+3
log2 y = log2x +4

I'm not sure exactly how to equate them
I'm not quote sure what you are doing here. But since, 8 = 23, and 4 = 22. So taking the logarithm base 2 of both sides, gives:
8y = 42x + 3
<=> log2(8y) = log2(42x + 3)
<=> log2(23y) = log2(22(2x + 3))
You can go from here, right? :)
 
a) is totally wrong.
You are in effect saying p=1/4p, which is incorrect.
 
ok I'm sorry for not setting it out clearly enough. What i meant was:
log 9 2 = 1/4 p
which according to my textbook is correct

don't worry I've managed to work out b) as well
if log 9 2 = 1/4 p
then logq(8q) = logq (23q)
so logq(8q) = 3/4p +1
 
Last edited:
Have you worked out the equation one yet?
Is it clear, or do you need more hints? :)
 

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