Math Problem Statement

log_3(x + 25) - log_3(x - 1) = 3

Solution

The image contains the following logarithmic equation:

log3(x+25)log3(x1)=3\log_3(x + 25) - \log_3(x - 1) = 3

Let's solve this step by step.

Step 1: Apply the properties of logarithms

Using the property logbAlogbB=logb(AB)\log_b A - \log_b B = \log_b \left(\frac{A}{B}\right), we can rewrite the equation as:

log3(x+25x1)=3\log_3 \left( \frac{x + 25}{x - 1} \right) = 3

Step 2: Eliminate the logarithm

To eliminate the logarithm, rewrite the equation in exponential form. Since log3y=z\log_3 y = z implies y=3zy = 3^z, we get:

x+25x1=33\frac{x + 25}{x - 1} = 3^3

x+25x1=27\frac{x + 25}{x - 1} = 27

Step 3: Solve the equation

Now, solve for xx by multiplying both sides by x1x - 1:

x+25=27(x1)x + 25 = 27(x - 1)

Expand the right side:

x+25=27x27x + 25 = 27x - 27

Step 4: Simplify the equation

Now, rearrange the terms to isolate xx:

25+27=27xx25 + 27 = 27x - x

52=26x52 = 26x

x=5226=2x = \frac{52}{26} = 2

Step 5: Check for extraneous solutions

We must check that x=2x = 2 doesn't make any logarithms undefined. Substituting x=2x = 2:

  • x+25=27x + 25 = 27
  • x1=1x - 1 = 1

Both values are positive, so the solution x=2x = 2 is valid.

Thus, the solution is x=2x = 2.

Do you have any questions or would you like more details on any step? Here are some related questions for further exploration:

  1. What happens when the base of the logarithm is changed?
  2. How do you solve logarithmic equations with different bases?
  3. Can you generalize this approach to equations with more logarithmic terms?
  4. How do you solve logarithmic inequalities?
  5. What are the conditions for the existence of logarithmic solutions?

Tip: Always check for extraneous solutions when solving logarithmic equations by verifying that all logarithmic terms are defined (i.e., their arguments are positive).

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Logarithms
Exponential Equations
Properties of Logarithms

Formulas

log_b A - log_b B = log_b (A/B)
log_b y = z implies y = b^z

Theorems

Properties of Logarithms

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12