Solve each equation. Give solutions in exact form. See Examples 5–9. log(9x + 5) = 3 + log(x + 2)
Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 5m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
Solving Exponential and Logarithmic Equations
Problem 74
Textbook Question
Solve each equation. Give solutions in exact form. See Examples 5–9. ln(5 + 4x) - ln(3 + x) = ln 3
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the logarithmic property that states \( \ln a - \ln b = \ln \left( \frac{a}{b} \right) \). Apply this to the left side of the equation to combine the logarithms: \( \ln(5 + 4x) - \ln(3 + x) = \ln \left( \frac{5 + 4x}{3 + x} \right) \).
Rewrite the equation using the combined logarithm: \( \ln \left( \frac{5 + 4x}{3 + x} \right) = \ln 3 \).
Since the natural logarithm function \( \ln(x) \) is one-to-one, set the arguments equal to each other: \( \frac{5 + 4x}{3 + x} = 3 \).
Solve the resulting rational equation for \( x \) by cross-multiplying: \( 5 + 4x = 3(3 + x) \). Then expand and simplify the equation to isolate \( x \).
Check your solution(s) by substituting back into the original logarithmic expressions to ensure the arguments of all logarithms are positive, since the domain of \( \ln(x) \) requires \( x > 0 \).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Properties of Logarithms
Understanding the properties of logarithms, especially the subtraction rule ln(a) - ln(b) = ln(a/b), is essential. This allows combining or simplifying logarithmic expressions to solve equations more easily.
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Change of Base Property
Solving Logarithmic Equations
Solving logarithmic equations involves rewriting the equation in exponential form after isolating the logarithm. This step converts the problem into an algebraic equation that can be solved for the variable.
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Solving Logarithmic Equations
Domain Restrictions of Logarithmic Functions
Logarithmic functions are only defined for positive arguments. When solving equations involving logs, it is crucial to check that solutions do not make any log argument zero or negative, ensuring valid solutions.
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Domain Restrictions of Composed Functions
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