Skip to main content
Ch. 4 - Inverse, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions
Lial - College Algebra 13th Edition
Lial13th EditionCollege AlgebraISBN: 9780136881063Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 5, Problem 71

Solve each equation. Give solutions in exact form. See Examples 5–9. log(9x + 5) = 3 + log(x + 2)

Verified step by step guidance
1
Start with the given equation: \(\log(9x + 5) = 3 + \log(x + 2)\).
Use the logarithm property to isolate the logarithmic terms on one side: subtract \(\log(x + 2)\) from both sides to get \(\log(9x + 5) - \log(x + 2) = 3\).
Apply the logarithmic subtraction rule: \(\log(a) - \log(b) = \log\left(\frac{a}{b}\right)\), so rewrite the left side as \(\log\left(\frac{9x + 5}{x + 2}\right) = 3\).
Rewrite the equation in exponential form to eliminate the logarithm: \(\frac{9x + 5}{x + 2} = 10^{3}\), since the base of the logarithm is 10.
Solve the resulting equation \(\frac{9x + 5}{x + 2} = 1000\) by cross-multiplying and then isolating \(x\) to find the exact solution(s).

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
6m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Properties of Logarithms

Understanding the properties of logarithms, such as the product, quotient, and power rules, is essential for manipulating and simplifying logarithmic expressions. In this problem, the ability to combine or separate logs helps isolate the variable and solve the equation.
Recommended video:
5:36
Change of Base Property

Solving Logarithmic Equations

Solving logarithmic equations involves rewriting the equation to isolate the logarithmic expressions, then converting the logarithmic form to exponential form. This process allows for solving for the variable inside the logarithm.
Recommended video:
5:02
Solving Logarithmic Equations

Domain Restrictions of Logarithmic Functions

Logarithmic functions are only defined for positive arguments. When solving equations involving logs, it is crucial to check that the solutions do not make any log argument zero or negative, ensuring the solutions are valid within the domain.
Recommended video:
3:51
Domain Restrictions of Composed Functions