Various Problems for Precalculus Exam, Unit 2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around various precalculus problems, including solving equations involving exponential and logarithmic functions, as well as evaluating logarithmic expressions. The problems presented touch on concepts such as the zero product property, properties of logarithms, and substitutions in equations.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the zero product property in relation to exponential equations and discuss the implications of factoring out terms. There are inquiries about connecting logarithmic equations to find a single solution and attempts to evaluate logarithmic expressions using known properties.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on how to approach the problems, including suggestions for substitutions and properties of logarithms. There is an acknowledgment of the accuracy of certain attempts, while others remain uncertain and seek further clarification.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that certain solutions may not be straightforward and express confusion regarding specific steps in the problem-solving process. There is mention of an answer key that does not align with some participants' reasoning.

jacksonpeeble
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Homework Statement


9.e. Solve the equation for x: x2*ex+x*ex-ex=0

19. If logxa=0.578 and logay=1.161, what is the value of logxy?

26. Use the fact that logb4=x and logb7=y to evaluate logb(64/49).


Homework Equations


9.e. x2*ex+x*ex-ex=0

19. logxa=0.578 and logay=1.161

26. logxa=0.578 and logay=1.161


The Attempt at a Solution


9.e. Factored equation so ex(x2+x-1), then plugged into quadratic equation so [tex]\frac{-1+-\sqrt{1^{2}-4*1*-1}}{2*1}[/tex] which equals [tex]\frac{-1+-\sqrt{5}}{2}[/tex]. However, I'm wondering exactly what to do with the initial ex that I factored out - the answer key we were provided with does not include it at all, but I assumed that we would pin it in front of the equation so that our final answer is ex*[tex]\frac{-1+-\sqrt{5}}{2}[/tex].

19. I remember doing these and that the solution is fairly obvious, I just forget what it is.

26. Sorry, this is one where I have no idea.
 
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For the first problem, think zero product property. You've already found two values that will yield a zero. Now, when does e^x equal 0?

The solution to the second problem can be obtained by noting a = x^0.578 and y = a^1.161

Assuming the desired answer need be expressed in terms of x and y, use the properties alog(x) = log(x^a), log(a/b) = log(a) - log(b).
 
Thanks for the reply!

Ok, so I was fairly accurate with #9.

For #19, I understand that - from the revised equations, how are we supposed to connect them into a single solution?

#26 is still up for grabs ;-)
 
Yeah, since e^x is never zero, you already had the two solutions.

For 19 try a simple substitution.

Alright, 64 = 4^3 and 49 = 7^2. Therefore, log(64) = 3x and log(49) = 2y. Can you take it from there?
 
The first one is correct since ex can never be zero. There are 2 solutions.

2nd one:

[tex]\frac{log_ay}{log_ax}=log_xy[/tex]

[tex]\frac{1}{log_ax}=0.578[/tex]

[tex]log_ax=\frac{1}{0.578}[/tex]

Now divide [itex]log_ay[/itex] with [itex]log_ax[/itex]

3nd one:

[tex]3log_b4=3x[/itex]<br /> <br /> [tex]log_b64=3x[/itex]<br /> <br /> [tex]2log_b7=2y[/itex]<br /> <br /> [tex]log_b49=2y[/itex]<br /> <br /> [tex]log_b(64/49)=log_b64-log_b49[/tex]<br /> <br /> Now just substitute.<br /> <br /> Regards.[/tex][/tex][/tex][/tex]
 

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