In Exercises 91–100, find all values of x satisfying the given conditions. $y = (x - 5)^{\(\frac{3}{2}\)} \(\quad\) \(\text{and}\) \(\quad\) y = 125$

Verified step by step guidance

1. Start with the given equations: \(y = (x - 5)^{3/2}\) and \(y = 125\). Since both expressions equal \(y\), set them equal to each other: \((x - 5)^{3/2} = 125\).
2. To isolate \(x - 5\), raise both sides of the equation to the power that is the reciprocal of \(\frac{3}{2}\), which is \(\frac{2}{3}\). This gives: \(\left((x - 5)^{3/2}\right)^{2/3} = 125^{2/3}\).
3. Simplify the left side using the property of exponents: \((a^{m})^{n} = a^{mn}\). So, \((x - 5)^{(3/2) \times (2/3)} = (x - 5)^1 = x - 5\).
4. Now, express \(125^{2/3}\) by first recognizing that \(125 = 5^3\). Then, \(125^{2/3} = (5^3)^{2/3} = 5^{3 \times \frac{2}{3}} = 5^2\).
5. Finally, solve for \(x\) by adding 5 to both sides: \(x = 5 + 5^2\). This will give the value(s) of \(x\) that satisfy the original equation.

Key Concepts

Solving Equations Involving Radicals and Rational Exponents

This concept involves understanding how to manipulate and solve equations where variables are raised to fractional powers, such as (x - 5)^(3/2). It requires rewriting the expression in radical form or using exponent rules to isolate the variable and solve for x.

Properties of Exponents

Understanding the properties of exponents, especially rational exponents, is essential. For example, a fractional exponent like 3/2 means taking the square root (denominator) and then cubing the result (numerator). This helps in rewriting and simplifying expressions to solve equations.

Checking for Extraneous Solutions

When solving equations involving even roots or rational exponents, some solutions may not satisfy the original equation due to domain restrictions. It is important to substitute solutions back into the original equation to verify their validity.