Logarithm Equation: Rewriting log-x to log -x^2

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In summary, the conversation discusses how to rewrite log-x to log -x^2 and how to solve an equation using logarithmic functions. The resulting equation has two solutions, but the only valid and largest solution is x = 1/2.
  • #1
Heatherirving
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Hi

I wonder how I can rewrite log-x to log -x^2
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  • #2
Hello and welcome to MHB, Heatherirving! (Wave)

Let's consider that:

\(\displaystyle \log_x(a)=b\)

Can be translated from logarithmic to exponential form as:

\(\displaystyle a=x^b\)

Now, let's rewrite this as:

\(\displaystyle a=x^{2\frac{b}{2}}=\left(x^2\right)^{\frac{b}{2}}\)

Now, if we convert this to logarithmic form, we have:

\(\displaystyle \log_{x^2}(a)=\frac{b}{2}\)

And so we conclude:

\(\displaystyle b=\log_x(a)=2\log_{x^2}(a)\)

Or:

\(\displaystyle \log_x(a)=\log_{x^2}\left(a^2\right)\)
 
  • #3
Is it right to write the equation as:

(3-x)^2 = ( 8-3x-x^2)
 
  • #4
Heatherirving said:
Is it right to write the equation as:

(3-x)^2 = ( 8-3x-x^2)

Yes, but bear in mind what makes a meaningful logarithmic base. That is:

By definition of logarithmic functions, we know that the base of a logarithmic function is a positive number excluding $x=1$. ;)
 
  • #5
Through my calculation, I got that X (1) = 1 and X (2) = 0,5 According to the question, you should also indicate the largest (real) solution.

is not 1 a larger real solution than 0,5
 
  • #6
Heatherirving said:
Through my calculation, I got that X (1) = 1 and X (2) = 0,5 According to the question, you should also indicate the largest (real) solution.

is not 1 a larger real solution than 0,5

We do get \(\displaystyle x\in\left\{\frac{1}{2},1\right\}\), from the resulting equation, but we have to discard $x=1$ since it makes no sense as a logarithmic base, as it is used in the original equation. So, the only valid solution, and therefore the largest is:

\(\displaystyle x=\frac{1}{2}\)
 
  • #7
thanks for the help :)
 

FAQ: Logarithm Equation: Rewriting log-x to log -x^2

What is a logarithm equation?

A logarithm equation is an equation that involves logarithmic functions, which are the inverse of exponential functions. It is written in the form logbx = y, where b is the base, x is the argument, and y is the result.

How do you rewrite log-x to log -x2?

To rewrite log-x to log -x2, you can use the power rule of logarithms, which states that logbxn = n * logbx. In this case, n is 2, so the equation becomes 2 * logbx. You can then change the sign from positive to negative, resulting in log -x2.

What is the significance of the negative sign in log-x?

The negative sign in log-x indicates that the base of the logarithm is a negative number. This means that the argument of the logarithm must also be a negative number, as the result of a logarithm with a negative base and a positive argument would be undefined.

Can you solve a logarithm equation with a negative argument?

Yes, you can solve a logarithm equation with a negative argument, as long as the base is also a negative number. In this case, the result would be a complex number. However, if the base is a positive number, the argument must also be positive for the equation to be solvable.

How can logarithm equations be used in real-life situations?

Logarithm equations can be used in various real-life situations, such as calculating the pH level of a solution, determining the intensity of earthquakes, and measuring the loudness of sound. They are also commonly used in finance and economics for calculating compound interest and growth rates.

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