Converting Logarithmic Equations to Base 2

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In summary, the conversation discusses how to solve the equation log(base16)x + log(base4)x + log(base2)x = 7. The suggested method involves using logarithm properties and converting all terms to log2 to solve for x. However, it is suggested to use Latex in the post to clarify the method.
  • #1
Physicsrapper
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How to solve this:

log(base16)x + log(base4)x + log(base2)x = 7

If I have log(base16)x for example and i make

10^(log(base16)x)

of it, can I transform the base 16 into an exponent?

It would look like that then:

10^(logx)^16 = x^16

Would that be correct?

Then, I could solve it:

10^(logx)^16 * 10^(logx)^4 * 10^(logx)^2 = 10^7

that would be

x^16 * x^4 * x^2 = 10^7

x^22 = 10^7
22 = log(base x)10^7

Is that correct? Can I solve it this way?
 
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  • #2
I don't (think) your method is valid, but I think using Latex in your post would help clarify your idea. Here's the normal way you tackle the problem:

$$
\log _{16}x+\log_{4}x+\log_{2}x=7
$$

If you ever calculated non-natural logs on your calculator, you know that...

$$
\log_{B}x = \frac{\ln x}{\ln B}
$$

Replace all left terms by their respective fraction:

$$
\frac{\ln x}{\ln 16}+\frac{\ln x}{\ln 4}+\frac{\ln x}{\ln 2}=7
$$

Recall that ##\ln(a^b) = b\ln a##, and that ##16## and ##4## are powers of ##2##.

$$
\frac{\ln x}{\ln 2^4}+\frac{\ln x}{\ln 2^2}+\frac{\ln x}{\ln 2}=7
$$
$$
\frac{\ln x}{4\ln 2}+\frac{\ln x}{2\ln 2}+\frac{\ln x}{\ln 2}=7
$$

Find the common denominator, and consolidate the expression into one fraction:

$$
\frac{\ln x}{4\ln 2}+\frac{2\ln x}{4\ln 2}+\frac{4\ln x}{4\ln 2}=7
$$
$$
\frac{7\ln x}{4\ln 2}=7
$$

Divide by ##7## to cancel them out, and multiply each side by ##4\ln 2## to isolate \ln x.

$$
\ln x=4\ln 2
$$

Recall that ##4\ln 2 = \ln 2^4 = \ln 16##:

$$
\ln x = \ln 16.
$$

Raise both sides to e to cancel out the logarithms, and you find that:

$$
x = 16
$$
 
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  • #3
try converting all to log2
 

FAQ: Converting Logarithmic Equations to Base 2

What is a logarithm?

A logarithm is a mathematical concept that represents the power to which a base number must be raised to produce a given number. It is the inverse function of an exponential and is commonly written as logb(x), where b is the base and x is the number.

Why do we use logarithms?

Logarithms are used to solve exponential equations, simplify calculations, and represent data that spans a large range of values. They also have applications in finance, science, and engineering.

How do you solve a logarithmic problem?

To solve a logarithmic problem, you can use the properties of logarithms, such as the product, quotient, and power rules. You can also convert logarithmic equations to exponential form and solve for the variable. It is important to check your answers for extraneous solutions.

What is the difference between a natural logarithm and a common logarithm?

A natural logarithm, written as ln(x), uses e (approximately 2.71828) as the base. A common logarithm, written as log(x), uses 10 as the base. Both types of logarithms can be used to solve problems, but natural logarithms are commonly used in calculus and exponential growth/decay problems.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid when solving logarithmic problems?

Some common mistakes when solving logarithmic problems include forgetting to check for extraneous solutions, misapplying the properties of logarithms, and incorrectly converting between logarithmic and exponential forms. It is important to carefully follow the steps and double-check your work to avoid these mistakes.

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