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Solving Exponential Equations Using Logarithms
When an exponential equation cannot be easily rewritten so that both sides share the same base, it can be solved by taking the logarithm of both sides. Once the exponential expression is isolated, either the common logarithm or the natural logarithm is applied to both sides of the equation. Then, the Power Property of Logarithms is used to move the variable out of the exponent and turn it into a coefficient, allowing the equation to be solved using standard algebraic techniques. If the exponential base is , the natural logarithm is specifically used to simplify the process, since .
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Ch.10 Exponential and Logarithmic Functions - Intermediate Algebra @ OpenStax
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Solving Exponential Equations Using Logarithms
Example 10.41: Solving
Try It 10.81 and 10.82: Solving and
Example 10.42: Solving
Try It 10.83 and 10.84: Solving and
Solving an Exponential Equation by Rewriting with a Common Base
In professional fields such as finance and technology, analysts use different mathematical models to track growth and change. Which of the following represents an exponential equation?
In a professional financial model, an analyst uses the equation to predict how many years () it will take for an investment to double. This is classified as an exponential equation because the variable is located in the exponent of the expression.
Structural Characteristics of Exponential Equations
In a professional financial report, an analyst uses the formula to predict the future value of an investment over time . Because the variable representing time is located in the exponent of the expression, this is specifically classified as a(n) ____ equation.
Auditing Business Growth Models
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Solving Exponential Equations with Base
In professional fields such as financial planning, you may need to solve for time () in an exponential growth equation like . After taking the common logarithm of both sides to get , which property of logarithms is specifically used to move the variable from the exponent to the coefficient position?
In professional fields like finance and demographic research, solving growth models often requires choosing the correct algebraic strategy. Match each exponential equation below with the most efficient first step required to solve for the variable .
A financial analyst is calculating the time, , required for a business investment to triple in value using the equation . To find the value of , the analyst must follow a standard sequence of algebraic steps. Arrange the following steps in the correct order to solve this exponential equation.
In professional fields like biology and finance, when solving an exponential equation where the mathematical constant is the base, a researcher will typically apply the ____ logarithm to both sides because its base matches and simplifies the calculation.
A financial planner is using a continuous compounding formula to determine how many years () it will take for a corporate client's investment to reach a specific goal. True or False: Once the exponential expression with base is isolated, the standard procedure is to apply the common logarithm () to both sides to most efficiently solve the equation.