Rewriting Exponential Equations

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 105 views

Introduction

In mathematics, logarithmic and exponential functions are closely related. While exponential functions describe growth or decay over time, logarithmic functions help us understand the power to which a base number must be raised to produce a given value. In this article, we will explore how to rewrite exponential equations as logarithmic quotients, a skill that is essential for solving various mathematical problems.

What are Logarithmic Quotients?

A logarithmic quotient is a mathematical expression that represents the ratio of two logarithmic values. It is denoted by the symbol "log" or "ln" (natural logarithm) and is used to solve equations involving exponential functions. The general form of a logarithmic quotient is:

log(a/b) = log(a) - log(b)

where a and b are positive real numbers.

Rewriting Exponential Equations

To rewrite an exponential equation as a logarithmic quotient, we need to use the property of logarithms that states:

log(a^b) = b * log(a)

Using this property, we can rewrite the given equation:

1.13^x = 2.97

as a logarithmic quotient:

log(1.13^x) = log(2.97)

Using the property of logarithms, we can rewrite the left-hand side of the equation as:

x * log(1.13) = log(2.97)

Now, we can solve for x by dividing both sides of the equation by log(1.13):

x = log(2.97) / log(1.13)

Solving for x

To solve for x, we need to evaluate the logarithmic quotient:

x = log(2.97) / log(1.13)

Using a calculator, we can find the values of log(2.97) and log(1.13):

log(2.97) ≈ 0.4703 log(1.13) ≈ 0.0492

Now, we can divide the two values to find the value of x:

x ≈ 0.4703 / 0.0492 x ≈ 9.55

Conclusion

In this article, we have learned how to rewrite exponential equations as logarithmic quotients. This skill is essential for solving various mathematical problems, including those involving exponential growth and decay. By using the property of logarithms, we can rewrite exponential equations in a form that can be easily solved using a calculator. We have also seen how to solve for x in a logarithmic quotient equation. With practice and patience, you can master this skill and become proficient in solving mathematical problems involving logarithmic quotients.

Example Problems

Rewrite the exponential equation 2.5^x = 6.25 as a logarithmic quotient.
Solve for x in the equation log(3.14^x) = log(9.87).
Rewrite the exponential equation 1.8^x = 3.24 as a logarithmic quotient.

Answer Key

x = log(6.25) / log(2.5)
x = log(9.87) / log(3.14)
x = log(3.24) / log(1.8)

Tips and Tricks

When rewriting an exponential equation as a logarithmic quotient, make sure to use the property of logarithms that states log(a^b) = b * log(a).
When solving for x in a logarithmic quotient equation, make sure to divide both sides of the equation by the logarithm of the base.
When using a calculator to evaluate logarithmic quotients, make sure to use the correct logarithmic base (e.g. log or ln).

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored the concept of logarithmic quotients and how to rewrite exponential equations as logarithmic quotients. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about logarithmic quotients and provide additional examples to help you master this skill.

Q&A

Q: What is a logarithmic quotient?

A: A logarithmic quotient is a mathematical expression that represents the ratio of two logarithmic values. It is denoted by the symbol "log" or "ln" (natural logarithm) and is used to solve equations involving exponential functions.

Q: How do I rewrite an exponential equation as a logarithmic quotient?

A: To rewrite an exponential equation as a logarithmic quotient, you need to use the property of logarithms that states log(a^b) = b * log(a). For example, if you have the equation 2.5^x = 6.25, you can rewrite it as log(2.5^x) = log(6.25), which simplifies to x * log(2.5) = log(6.25).

Q: How do I solve for x in a logarithmic quotient equation?

A: To solve for x in a logarithmic quotient equation, you need to divide both sides of the equation by the logarithm of the base. For example, if you have the equation x * log(2.5) = log(6.25), you can solve for x by dividing both sides of the equation by log(2.5): x = log(6.25) / log(2.5).

Q: What is the difference between log and ln?

A: log and ln are both logarithmic functions, but they have different bases. log is the common logarithm with a base of 10, while ln is the natural logarithm with a base of e (approximately 2.718). When using a calculator, make sure to use the correct logarithmic base.

Q: Can I use a calculator to evaluate logarithmic quotients?

A: Yes, you can use a calculator to evaluate logarithmic quotients. However, make sure to use the correct logarithmic base and follow the order of operations.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when working with logarithmic quotients?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when working with logarithmic quotients include:

Not using the correct logarithmic base
Not following the order of operations
Not simplifying the equation before solving for x
Not checking the domain of the logarithmic function

Examples

Example 1: Rewrite the exponential equation 3.2^x = 9.6 as a logarithmic quotient.

Solution:

log(3.2^x) = log(9.6) x * log(3.2) = log(9.6) x = log(9.6) / log(3.2)

Example 2: Solve for x in the equation log(4.5^x) = log(12.1).

Solution:

x * log(4.5) = log(12.1) x = log(12.1) / log(4.5)

Example 3: Rewrite the exponential equation 2.1^x = 5.4 as a logarithmic quotient.

Solution:

log(2.1^x) = log(5.4) x * log(2.1) = log(5.4) x = log(5.4) / log(2.1)

Conclusion

In this article, we have answered some frequently asked questions about logarithmic quotients and provided additional examples to help you master this skill. Remember to use the property of logarithms to rewrite exponential equations as logarithmic quotients, and to divide both sides of the equation by the logarithm of the base to solve for x. With practice and patience, you can become proficient in solving mathematical problems involving logarithmic quotients.

Practice Problems

Rewrite the exponential equation 4.8^x = 12.9 as a logarithmic quotient.
Solve for x in the equation log(3.6^x) = log(10.5).
Rewrite the exponential equation 2.8^x = 7.2 as a logarithmic quotient.

Answer Key

x = log(12.9) / log(4.8)
x = log(10.5) / log(3.6)
x = log(7.2) / log(2.8)