Sanity Check: Solving for t in x=12(1-e^-t/RC) with Inversion Method

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The discussion focuses on solving the equation x=12(1-e^(-t/RC)) for t, leading to the derived solution t=-RC ln(1-x/12). Participants confirm that inverting both sides of the equation e^(-t/RC)=(12-x)/12 is valid, resulting in e^(t/RC)=12/(12-x). There is clarification on the importance of correctly applying the rules of inversion, emphasizing that the reciprocal of a sum is not the sum of the reciprocals. Confusion arises from incorrect substitutions and inversions, highlighting the need for careful manipulation of equations. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding mathematical principles in solving exponential equations.
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Homework Statement



Transpose for t,

x=12(1-e^(-t/RC))

I can't get it out of my head but, the soltuion I have come up with doesn't seem right.

Solution is,

t=-RC ln(1-x/12)

Thanks in advance,

Realted, but not as important as the sanity check. For my own mind, could someone explain to me if this is possible and should/could be carried out. If during my transposing I came up with:

e^(-t/RC)= (12-x)/12

Is it possible to invert both sides so that the follwoing is shown

e^(t/RC)=12/(12-x)

Again, thanks in advance.
 
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For your first problem, that's what I get.
For the second, yes, it's valid to invert both sides. The idea is that if a/b = c/d, then b/a = d/c, as long as you don't introduce any division by zero in doing this.
 
Mark44 said:
For your first problem, that's what I get.
For the second, yes, it's valid to invert both sides. The idea is that if a/b = c/d, then b/a = d/c, as long as you don't introduce any division by zero in doing this.



Thanks Mark. Its just that I tried the invert first off and got completely different colutions once I had substitued values in (why I got confused) .
 
I'm guessing that you made a mistake when you inverted first. If you have a sum or difference -- a + b -- the reciprocal isn't 1/a + 1/b. It's 1/(a + b). For your problem I'm guessing that you took the reciprocal of 1 - e^(-t/RC) to be 1 - e^(t/RC).
 
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