Math Problem Statement

Solve with steps

Given that 3^(2a) * 81^b = 3^n, express n in terms of a and b.

Solution

Let's solve the given equation:

32a×81b=3n3^{2a} \times 81^b = 3^n

Step 1: Express 81b81^b in terms of base 3.

Since 81=3481 = 3^4, we can rewrite 81b81^b as:

81b=(34)b=34b81^b = (3^4)^b = 3^{4b}

Step 2: Substitute into the original equation.

The equation now becomes:

32a×34b=3n3^{2a} \times 3^{4b} = 3^n

Step 3: Apply the property of exponents.

Using the rule xm×xn=xm+nx^m \times x^n = x^{m+n}, combine the terms on the left-hand side:

32a+4b=3n3^{2a + 4b} = 3^n

Step 4: Equate the exponents.

Since the bases are the same, we can set the exponents equal to each other:

2a+4b=n2a + 4b = n

Final Answer:

Thus, nn in terms of aa and bb is:

n=2a+4bn = 2a + 4b


Would you like further details or have any questions?

Related Questions:

  1. How would the solution change if 8181 was replaced by another power of 3?
  2. What if the original equation had another base instead of 3?
  3. Can you solve for aa in terms of nn and bb?
  4. How would the solution be affected if the exponents were fractional?
  5. How can this technique be applied to solve exponential equations with other bases?

Tip:

When solving exponential equations, always try to express all terms with the same base to simplify the equation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Exponents
Exponent Rules

Formulas

Exponent rule: x^m * x^n = x^(m+n)
Base conversion: 81 = 3^4

Theorems

Laws of Exponents

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11