Learning Objectives
Introduction
Tutorial
Solving Exponential Equations,
where x is in the exponent, BUT
the bases DO NOT MATCH.
*Use the calculator to find ln 50
*lne is 1
*Inverse of mult. by 5 is to divide by 5
*Exponential expression isolated
*Inverse of add 1 is sub. 1
*Use the calculator to find ln 2.4 and ln 10
*Exponential expression isolated
*Use the calculator to find ln 21 and ln 2
Note how we have a trinomial and that e to the 2x is e to the x squared. This means it is quadratic
in from. So we can factor it just like a trinomial of the form .
*Set the 1st factor = 0
*Isolate the exponential expression
*Set the 2nd factor = 0
*Isolate the exponential expression
So there is only one equation that we can solve .
*Use the calculator to find ln 4
*lne = 1
Practice Problems
To get the most out of these, you should work the problem out on your own and then check your answer by clicking on the link for the answer/discussion for that problem. At the link you will find the answer as well as any steps that went into finding that answer.
Practice Problems 1a - 1c: Solve the given exponential equation. Round your answer to two decimal places.
Need Extra Help on these Topics?
The following are webpages that can assist you in the topics that were covered on this page.
http://www.purplemath.com/modules/solvexpo.htm
This webpage helps you with exponential equations.
http://www.sosmath.com/algebra/solve/solve7/s72/s72.html
This webpage gives an example of solving an exponential equation.
http://www.sosmath.com/algebra/solve/solve7/s73/s73.html
This webpage gives an example of solving an exponential equation.
Go to Get
Help Outside the
Classroom found in Tutorial 1: How to Succeed in a Math Class for
some
more suggestions.
Last revised on March 24, 2011 by Kim Seward.
All contents copyright (C) 2002 - 2011, WTAMU and Kim Seward. All rights reserved.