Download Solving Exponential Equations NOTES

7.2A – Solving Exponential
Equations
I can … solve exponential equations
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Review of exponents
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Some Notes…
Exponential Equation – unknown variables are
the exponents.
If two powers are equal and they have the same
base, then the exponents must be the same
ex. if bx = ay and a = b, then x = y.
If two powers are equal and they have the same
exponents, then the bases must be the same
ex. if bx = ay and x = y, then a = b.
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To Solve Exponential Equations:
1.
Rewrite the Equation/Inequality so that the
BASES are the same number.
a.
b.
2.
3.
If the base is a whole number, just break it down
with a factor tree.
If the base is a fraction, FIRST write as a whole
number by using negative exponents.
Once the bases are equal, you can set the
exponents equal to each other and solve.
Check your solution!
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Examples…Solve and verify your
answer
1. 32x = 81
2. 2x = 83
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3. 92x-1 = 36x
4. 42n-1 = 64
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5. (½)x = 42 – x
6. 3y + 2 = 1/27
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