Solving this Equation that Wolfram Alpha doesn't compute....

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation $$ a = x \cdot \left( c \cdot e^{ \frac {1} {d+x \cdot e }} - b \right) $$ for the variable x. Participants explore various methods and approaches to tackle this equation, which has proven challenging for computational tools like Wolfram Alpha. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and potential numerical methods.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests assistance in solving the equation, noting that Wolfram Alpha could not compute it.
  • Another participant suggests that the equation should be posted in the Homework Help section if it is for schoolwork and requests additional context about the equation's origin.
  • A participant proposes a substitution, letting ##y=\frac{1}{d+ex}##, to facilitate solving for y.
  • There is a question regarding whether the "e" in "d + x \cdot e" is the same as the "e" in the exponential term.
  • Some participants mention that equations of the form ##a=x*e^x## can be solved using the Lambert function, suggesting that a similar approach might be applicable.
  • However, it is noted that this method does not seem to work for the given equation, leading to the suggestion that either an approximation scheme or numerical methods may be necessary.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty about the best method to solve the equation, with some proposing the Lambert function approach while others indicate that it may not be applicable. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the most effective solution strategy.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the variables and the definitions of terms within the equation. The applicability of the Lambert function to the specific form of the equation is also questioned.

kajakkajak
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Hi I need to solve this equation: $$ a = x \cdot \left( c \cdot e^{ \frac {1} {d+x \cdot e }} - b \right) $$ for x. Unfortunately Wolfram Alpha refused to compute it. Maybe I need a Pro version. Can anyone help me? Thanks!
 
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kajakkajak said:
Hi I need to solve this equation: x*(c*(exp^(1/(d+x*e)))-b)=a for x. Unfortunately Wolfram Alpha refused to compute it. Maybe I need a Pro version. Can anyone help me? Thanks!
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

Is this question for schoolwork? If so, please re-post it in the Homework Help section of the PF, and show your work toward the solution.

If not, can you say where the equation came from? Also, it would help if you would post math questions using LaTeX -- there is a tutorial under INFO, Help at the top of the page. :smile:

EDIT -- I see you edited your post to change the equation to LaTeX form -- Thanks!
 
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Let ##y=\frac{1}{d+ex}## and try to slve for ##y##.
 
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kajakkajak said:
Hi I need to solve this equation: $$ a = x \cdot \left( c \cdot e^{ \frac {1} {d+x \cdot e } - b \right) $$ for x. Unfortunately Wolfram Alpha refused to compute it. Maybe I need a Pro version. Can anyone help me? Thanks!

Is the "e" in "d + x \cdot e" the same "e" in e^{...}?
 
Hmm... an equation of the form

##a=x*e^x##

has a solution with Lambert function:

##x=W(a)##

so I guess the solution is some variation of that theme?
 
fbs7 said:
Hmm... an equation of the form

##a=x*e^x##

has a solution with Lambert function:

##x=W(a)##

so I guess the solution is some variation of that theme?

Unfortunately, that does not seem to work. It looks like either some type of approximation scheme is needed, or else a numerical method when numerical parameter values are given.
 

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