Math Problem Statement

log(x - 3) - log(x - 2) = 2

Solution

The equation provided in the image is:

log(x3)log(x2)=2\log(x - 3) - \log(x - 2) = 2

We can solve this step by step.

Step 1: Use the logarithmic property

The difference of two logarithms can be written as the logarithm of a quotient: log(x3x2)=2\log\left(\frac{x - 3}{x - 2}\right) = 2

Step 2: Exponentiate both sides

To eliminate the logarithm, exponentiate both sides with base 10: x3x2=102=100\frac{x - 3}{x - 2} = 10^2 = 100

Step 3: Solve for xx

Now, solve the equation: x3x2=100\frac{x - 3}{x - 2} = 100

Multiply both sides by x2x - 2 to get rid of the fraction: x3=100(x2)x - 3 = 100(x - 2)

Expand the right-hand side: x3=100x200x - 3 = 100x - 200

Move all terms involving xx to one side and constants to the other: x100x=200+3x - 100x = -200 + 3 99x=197-99x = -197

Solve for xx: x=197991.99x = \frac{197}{99} \approx 1.99

Step 4: Check the solution

For a logarithmic equation, the arguments inside the logarithms must be positive. So we check:

  • x3>0x - 3 > 0 gives x>3x > 3
  • x2>0x - 2 > 0 gives x>2x > 2

Since x=197991.99x = \frac{197}{99} \approx 1.99, it does not satisfy the condition x>3x > 3 or x>2x > 2. Therefore, there are no valid solutions for this equation.

Would you like a further breakdown or clarification?

Related Questions:

  1. What is the general rule for solving logarithmic equations involving subtraction?
  2. How can you determine the domain of a logarithmic function?
  3. How do you handle cases where a logarithmic equation has no solution?
  4. What are the implications of extraneous solutions in logarithmic equations?
  5. How does the base of the logarithm affect the steps in solving the equation?

Tip: Always check the domain restrictions when working with logarithmic functions to avoid extraneous solutions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Logarithms
Logarithmic Equations
Algebra

Formulas

log(a) - log(b) = log(a/b)
log_b(x) = y implies b^y = x

Theorems

Properties of Logarithms

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12