Math Problem Statement

\log _4\left(x-3\right)+\log _4\left(x+3\right)=2

Solution

We are given the equation:

log4(x3)+log4(x+3)=2\log_4(x - 3) + \log_4(x + 3) = 2

To solve for xx, follow these steps:

Step 1: Apply the logarithmic property

Use the property of logarithms that states:

logb(A)+logb(B)=logb(AB)\log_b(A) + \log_b(B) = \log_b(A \cdot B)

This allows us to combine the two logarithms on the left-hand side:

log4((x3)(x+3))=2\log_4\left((x - 3)(x + 3)\right) = 2

Step 2: Simplify the expression inside the logarithm

Notice that (x3)(x+3)(x - 3)(x + 3) is a difference of squares:

(x3)(x+3)=x29(x - 3)(x + 3) = x^2 - 9

Thus, the equation becomes:

log4(x29)=2\log_4(x^2 - 9) = 2

Step 3: Rewrite the equation in exponential form

Recall that logb(A)=C\log_b(A) = C is equivalent to bC=Ab^C = A. Applying this property, we convert the logarithmic equation to an exponential

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Logarithms
Difference of Squares
Exponential Equations

Formulas

log_b(A) + log_b(B) = log_b(A * B)
(x - a)(x + a) = x^2 - a^2
log_b(A) = C implies b^C = A

Theorems

Logarithmic Properties
Difference of Squares
Exponential Equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12