Solving Logarithmic Equations: Expert Help with Different Bases

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on solving a logarithmic equation with different bases, specifically the equation ${2}^{2x+19}={3}^{x-31}$. Participants explore methods for solving this equation, including the application of natural logarithms and the logarithmic identity for exponents.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks help with solving the equation due to the different bases involved.
  • Another suggests taking the natural logarithm of both sides and applying the logarithmic rule for exponents.
  • A participant attempts to solve the equation using logarithms but arrives at an incorrect answer, expressing uncertainty about their method.
  • Further clarification is provided on the distribution of logarithms after applying the natural log, leading to a new equation to solve for $x$.
  • A participant realizes they missed a step in their calculations and provides a revised expression for $x$, which they verify as correct.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants engage in a collaborative problem-solving process, with some expressing uncertainty about their calculations. There is no explicit consensus on the initial approach, but later steps lead to a resolution for one participant.

Contextual Notes

Some steps in the mathematical reasoning are not fully resolved, and there may be assumptions about the properties of logarithms that are not explicitly stated. The correctness of the final answer is based on the participant's verification but remains unconfirmed by others.

lastochka
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Hello,

I am trying to solve this, but the bases are different and I am not sure how to proceed with it...
Solve the following equation. If necessary, enter your answer as an expression involving natural logarithms or as a decimal approximation that is correct to at least four decimal places.

${2}^{2x+19}$=${3}^{x-31}$

Please, help!
Thank you
 
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Try taking the natural log of both sides, then apply the rule:

$$\log_a\left(b^c\right)=c\log_a(b)$$

What do you get...can you now solve for $x$?
 
Thank you for the answer, but I am still not sure...
Here is what I did
$\ln\left({{2}^{2x+19}}\right)$=$\ln\left({{3}^{x-31}}\right)$

2x+19$\ln\left({2}\right)$=x-31$\ln\left({3}\right)$

x=$\frac{-31$\ln\left({3}\right)}{-19$\ln\left({2}\right)}$

x=2.58599

But the answer is incorrect.
Please, let me know what am I doing wrong
 
Okay, after applying the log rule I posted, you should have:

$$(2x+19)\ln(2)=(x-31)\ln(3)$$

Upon distribution of the logs, you then get:

$$2x\ln(2)+19\ln(2)=x\ln(3)-31\ln(3)$$

Now try solving for $x$...:D
 
Yes, thank you! I just realized that I didn't do another step...must be tired...
Here what I have so far
2lnx-xln3=-31ln3-19ln2

x(2ln2) - (ln3)=-31ln3-19ln2

x=$\frac{-31ln3-19ln2}{2ln2-ln3}$

x=-164.163

I checked, the answer is right.
MarkFL, thank you so much for help!
 

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