Chapter 1: Problem 12
For Problems \(1-16,\) solve for \(t\) using natural logarithms. $$a=b^{t}$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
\( t = \frac{\ln(a)}{\ln(b)} \)
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Equation
We are given the equation \( a = b^t \). This means \( a \) equals \( b \) raised to the power of \( t \). We need to solve this equation for \( t \).
02
Take the Natural Logarithm on Both Sides
To solve for \( t \), we need to eliminate the exponent. We do this by taking the natural logarithm (ln) of both sides of the equation. Thus, we have: \( \ln(a) = \ln(b^t) \).
03
Apply the Logarithmic Power Rule
The logarithmic power rule states that \( \ln(b^t) = t \cdot \ln(b) \). Apply this rule to the right side: \[ \ln(a) = t \cdot \ln(b) \].
04
Solve for t
To isolate \( t \), divide both sides of the equation by \( \ln(b) \), resulting in: \[ t = \frac{\ln(a)}{\ln(b)} \].
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Exponentiation
Exponentiation is a mathematical operation involving two numbers, the base and the exponent. In the equation \(a = b^t\), the base is \(b\) and the exponent is \(t\). Exponentiation is fundamentally about repetition.
The base, \(b\), is multiplied by itself \(t\) times.
A few key characteristics of exponentiation include:
The base, \(b\), is multiplied by itself \(t\) times.
A few key characteristics of exponentiation include:
- It is not commutative, meaning \(b^t\) is not the same as \(t^b\).
- It is associative with respect to multiplication, such that \((b^t)^s = b^{(t\cdot s)}\).
- The exponent can be any real number, which allows for operations involving roots and fractional exponents.
Logarithmic Power Rule
The logarithmic power rule is a useful tool when dealing with equations where the variable appears as an exponent. The rule provides a way to "bring down" the exponent, making the equation easier to solve.
To apply this rule, you start with the logarithm of an exponentiated number, for instance, \(\ln(b^t)\). The rule states:
This transformation is critical as it reduces the problem from an exponential equation to a linear equation, which is far simpler to manipulate. Recognizing and properly applying the logarithmic power rule is a fundamental skill in solving many logarithmic equations.
To apply this rule, you start with the logarithm of an exponentiated number, for instance, \(\ln(b^t)\). The rule states:
- The logarithm of a power, \(b^t\), is the exponent times the logarithm of the base.
This transformation is critical as it reduces the problem from an exponential equation to a linear equation, which is far simpler to manipulate. Recognizing and properly applying the logarithmic power rule is a fundamental skill in solving many logarithmic equations.
Solving Logarithmic Equations
Solving logarithmic equations often involves multiple steps and a comprehensive understanding of how logarithms and exponents interact. When you have an equation like \(a = b^t\), you can solve it by following these steps:
Logarithmic equations often appear complex due to their format, but applying the rules consistently will lead you to a solution. Always double-check your steps, as each transformation must be correct to maintain the equation's equality.
- Take the natural logarithm: Start by taking the \(\ln\) of both sides, transforming it into \(\ln(a) = \ln(b^t)\).
- Apply the logarithmic power rule: Use this rule to rewrite \(\ln(b^t)\) as \(t \cdot \ln(b)\).
- Isolate the variable: Solve for \(t\) by dividing both sides by \(\ln(b)\).
Logarithmic equations often appear complex due to their format, but applying the rules consistently will lead you to a solution. Always double-check your steps, as each transformation must be correct to maintain the equation's equality.