Chapter 4: Problem 16
solve for \(x\) without using a calculating utility. $$\log _{10}(1+x)=3$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The solution is \( x = 999 \).
Step by step solution
01
Understand the problem
We need to solve the equation \( \log_{10}(1+x) = 3 \) for \( x \). This means we need to find the value of \( x \) that makes this equation true.
02
Convert from logarithmic to exponential form
The equation \( \log_{10}(1+x) = 3 \) can be rewritten in exponential form. Recall that \( \log_b(a) = c \) is equivalent to \( a = b^c \). Thus, \( 1 + x = 10^3 \).
03
Calculate the exponential
Calculate \( 10^3 \). Since \( 10^3 = 10 \times 10 \times 10 = 1000 \), we have \( 1 + x = 1000 \).
04
Solve for x
Subtract 1 from both sides of the equation \( 1 + x = 1000 \) to isolate \( x \). This gives \( x = 1000 - 1 \).
05
Simplify
Carry out the subtraction: \( 1000 - 1 = 999 \). Thus, \( x = 999 \).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Exponential Form
Understanding how to convert a logarithmic equation into its exponential form is essential. The logarithmic equation \( \log_{10}(1+x) = 3 \) needs to be rewritten using the basic relationship between logs and exponents.
- A logarithm \( \log_b(a) = c \) signifies that \( b \) raised to the power of \( c \) gives \( a \).
- Therefore, \( \log_{10}(1+x) = 3 \) becomes \( 1+x = 10^3 \).
Solving for x
Transforming equations to make \( x \) the subject is vital when asked to solve for \( x \). Once we have the exponential form of the equation, like \( 1 + x = 1000 \), we can isolate \( x \) through basic arithmetic operations.
- Start by identifying the operation associated with \( x \). In our case, it is addition by 1.
- To isolate \( x \), perform the inverse operation, which is subtraction, on both sides. We thus subtract 1 from 1000.
- This yields \( x = 999 \).
Basic Logarithm Properties
Grasping basic logarithm properties allows you to work more effectively with these functions. Being familiar with how logs translate helps in many math problems.
- A logarithm \( \log_b(a) = c \) represents the exponent to which the base \( b \) must be raised to obtain \( a \).
- Consequently, \( 10^3 = 1000 \) exemplifies how exponentiation is the inverse operation of taking the logarithm.
- This relationship allows for the switch from logarithmic form to exponential form, making equations easier to handle and solve.