The discussion centers on simplifying the expression exp(-3ln(x)). The correct transformation is exp(-3ln(x)) = exp(ln(x^-3)) = x^-3, confirming that option (a) is accurate. Option (b), which suggests exp(-ln(x^3)) = -x^3, is incorrect as it misapplies the properties of exponents and logarithms. The clarification emphasizes that the negative sign cannot be factored out in this context.
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Yes (a) is the correct result.SteveDC said:Homework Statement
Got to part of a problem where I have exp(-3ln(x)) and I am confused as to whether the next step is:
a) exp(ln(x^-3)) = x^-3
or
b) exp(-ln(x^3)) = -x^3
I think the correct step is (a) but not certain, any help would be great :)
Here it appears you're saying ##e^{-a} = -e^a##, that you can simply pull the minus sign out front, which you probably know isn't correct.SteveDC said:b) exp(-ln(x^3)) = -x^3