How to Solve an Exponential Equation with a Mistake in the Second Step?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the exponential equation e^x - e^{-x} = 6. The initial attempt incorrectly manipulated the equation by assuming e^{-x} equals e^{-1} * e^x, which led to an erroneous solution. The correct approach involves recognizing that e^{-x} is equivalent to 1/e^x. The accurate solution to the equation is ln(3 + √10), as stated in the reference material.

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Rectifier
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The problem
Solve ## e^x-e^{-x} = 6 ## .

The attempt
$$ e^x-e^{-x} = 6 \\ e^x(1-e^{-1}) = 6 \\ e^x = \frac{6}{(1-e^{-1})} \\ x = \ln \left( \frac{6}{1-e^{-1}} \right) \\ $$

The answer in the book is ## \ln(3 + \sqrt{10})##

Could someone help me?
 
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I made a mistake at the second step ## e^{-x} \neq e^{-1} \cdot e^x ##
 
Rectifier said:
I made a mistake at the second step ## e^{-x} \neq e^{-1} \cdot e^x ##

Make the substitution y = e^x.
 
Rectifier said:
I made a mistake at the second step ## e^{-x} \neq e^{-1} \cdot e^x ##

Right: ##e^{-x} = \frac{1}{e^x}##.
 

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