Erika was working on solving the exponential equation 50^x = 17; however, she is not quite sure where to start. Using complete sentences, describe to Erika how to solve this equation and how solving would be different if the bases were equal.

Question

anonymous · Answer

any help?

kirbykirby · Answer

Um.. I can write the mathematical steps, then write what you do ..

anonymous · Answer

This whole lesson has lost me I'm usally pretty decent with math but I really dont get this at all

kirbykirby · Answer

$50^x=17$
$\log 50^x=\log 17$
$x \log 50 = \log 17$
$x=\large\frac{\log 17}{\log 50}$

anonymous · Answer

and if the bases where equal like 4=8 2^2=2^3?

kirbykirby · Answer

you would just have to compare the exponents.
Say you had $8^x=4$, then you can write it as $(2^3)^x=2^2$, or $2^{3x}=2^2$

In this case, you just need to compare the exponents and solve $3x=2$

kirbykirby · Answer

Although technically you can still you use logs.

anonymous · Answer

I get it now well more than I did before lol thank you so much!

kirbykirby · Answer

:) Cool! 
JUst remember, when solving an exponential equation, just log both sides because you can solve for x easily that way.

anonymous · Answer

ok thank you

kirbykirby · Answer

np