I understanding log/exponents

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation 3(5^x) = 2^(x-2). Participants explore different methods for manipulating the equation to isolate the variable x, including logarithmic approaches and algebraic transformations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an algebraic manipulation of the original equation to express it in the form a^x = b, leading to the equation (2/5)^x = 12.
  • Another participant suggests taking the natural logarithm of both sides as a strategy to solve for x, providing a detailed step-by-step transformation of the equation using logarithmic properties.
  • A later reply expresses gratitude and indicates understanding of the problem after reviewing the provided solutions, suggesting a positive reception of the explanations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree on the validity of using logarithms and algebraic manipulation to approach the problem, but there is no explicit consensus on a single preferred method.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various approaches to solving the equation, but does not resolve which method is superior or more efficient. Assumptions about the properties of logarithms and exponents are present but not explicitly stated.

Who May Find This Useful

Students or individuals seeking assistance with logarithmic equations, exponent manipulation, or general algebraic problem-solving techniques.

micheal1
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I need help understand this question;

3(5^x)=2^(x-2)

Any explanation/help would be amazing
 
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We are given:

$$3\cdot5^x=2^{x-2}$$

Our goal here is to express this equation in the form:

$$a^x=b$$

So, in light of this, let's write the equation as:

$$3\cdot5^x=\frac{2^x}{4}$$

Now, if we multiply both sides of the equation by $$\frac{4}{5^x}$$ we obtain:

$$12=\frac{2^x}{5^x}$$

or

$$\left(\frac{2}{5}\right)^x=12$$

Can you proceed?
 
micheal said:
I need help understand this question;

3(5^x)=2^(x-2)

Any explanation/help would be amazing

As elegant as Mark's solution is, it is not entirely obvious that that is what could be done.

A good strategy with these sort of problems, where you are trying to solve for an exponent, is to take the logarithm of both sides (any base is fine, but the natural logarithm is the most commonly used), so

$\displaystyle \begin{align*} 3 \cdot 5^x &= 2^{x- 2} \\ \ln{ \left( 3 \cdot 5^x \right) } &= \ln{ \left( 2^{x - 2} \right) } \\ \ln{(3)} + \ln{ \left( 5^x \right) } &= \left( x-2 \right) \ln{ (2) } \\ \ln{(3)} + x\ln{ (5)} &= x\ln{(2)} - 2\ln{(2)} \\ x\ln{(2)} - x\ln{(5)} &= \ln{(3)} + 2\ln{(2)} \\ x \left[ \ln{(2)} - \ln{(5)} \right] &= \ln{(3)} + 2\ln{(2)} \end{align*}$

Finish it...
 
Thanks heaps guys!, I think I understand it now~ I'll create new one's in a similar format a revise a little now ahaha.

Thanks!
 

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