Question

PLEASE HELP, Erika is working in 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 the equation

Answer 1

Yes, 50^x = 17 is an exponential equation with base 50, and the task here is to solve it for x.

1) Take the log of both sides:  x log 50 = log 17

2) Divide both sides b log 50:    

      log 17

x = ----------

      log 50

3)  This last result can't be simplified, but can be evaluated"

x = 1.2304 / 1.6990 = 0.724 (approx.)