Solving exponential equations using logarithms

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    Exponential Logarithms
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving exponential equations using logarithms, specifically focusing on two problems presented by a participant. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and conceptual clarification regarding logarithmic functions and their applications in solving equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the equation 3^(4logx) = 5 and outlines their steps to solve it, expressing uncertainty about their final answer.
  • Another participant confirms the steps taken by the first, noting a slight difference in the final logarithmic value but agreeing on the result x = 2.32.
  • Discussion arises regarding the appropriate classification of the thread, with some participants suggesting it should not be in the calculus section, as it does not pertain to calculus concepts.
  • Participants discuss the meaning of "log," with some asserting it is commonly understood as base 10 in elementary mathematics, while others argue that in higher mathematics, it typically refers to the natural logarithm.
  • One participant suggests using the Lambert W function or numerical methods like Newton's method for solving equations where the variable appears both as an exponent and in a linear form.
  • A later reply mentions that graphing the two equations to find their intersection is a method learned in class for solving the second equation presented.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the steps taken to solve the first equation and the final result, but there is disagreement regarding the classification of the thread and the interpretation of logarithmic notation. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to the second equation.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of consensus on the appropriate section for the thread, with suggestions for "General Math" or "Homework." Additionally, there are unresolved assumptions about the base of logarithms and the methods for solving the second equation.

Kate
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Hi, I have a couple of problems that involve solving exponential equations using logarithms. One of them I got an answer but I'm not positive whether I did it right, and one of them I have no idea...

3^(4logx)= 5
(4logx)log3=log5
logx=log5/4log3
logx=.698/1.91
logx=.365
10^.365=x
x=2.32
did I do it right?
and then...

5(1.044)^t=t+10
I've gotten this, again, not sure if I'm on the right track...
t-logt=15.89
and even if that is right, where do I go from there?
Oh man...
:frown:
-Kate
 
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Why is this in the calculus section? It doesn't have anything to do with calculus.

3^(4logx)= 5
(4logx)log3=log5
logx=log5/4log3
logx=.698/1.91
logx=.365
10^.365=x
x=2.32
"log" means logarithm base 10, I take it? It would have been a good idea to say so at the start.

Yes, if 3^(4log(x))= 5, then 4log(x) log(3)= log(5) so
log(x)= log(5)/(4log(3)). I get 0.366 to three decimal places. If you are using a calculator, try not to round off until the end.
Yes, x= 2.32.

There is no elementary way to solve an equation that has the unknown both as an exponent and not. You might try "Lambert's W function" which is defined as the inverse of the function xe<sup>x</sup> but I suspect that is more advance than you want to use. If you really must solve such an equation, try a numerical method such as Newton's method.
 
"Why is this in the calculus section? It doesn't have anything to do with calculus."
I didn't realize that wasn't calculus. What should it have been under?

"log" means logarithm base 10, I take it? It would have been a good idea to say so at the start."
And I'm sorry you were confused about the log base10 issue. My math analysis teacher said that when you wrote "log" it was assumed that it was base 10.
Anyway thank you very much.
-Kate
 
PS

Oh and also, I forgot to post this part,
we just learned how to do that second equation in class, as you said there is no simple way to solve it algebraically so you have to graph the two equations and find their intersection.
 
"Calculus" is limits, derivatives, integrals and such. This problem might have come up in a Calculus class as an introduction to something later.

I would like to have a discussion with your "math analysis" teacher! Yes, in elementary mathematics, log commonly means the "common" logarithm (base 10) but in mathematics at the calculus or higher level, log almost always means "natural" logarithm.
I may have mistook the level of the course from the fact that you put it in the calculus section.
 
Oh, and I meant to say, it probably should have been under "General Math"- or, even better, the "Homework" section.
 
i think general math section? but yeah, that gu7y is right, in calculus they use "e" and ln or natural log more often, however, the derivative of log is seen quite often...
 
Ok, thanks
:smile:
 

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