Math Problem Statement

Solve the inequality (1/5)^x > (1/5)^5

Solution

Let’s solve the inequality step by step.

Problem:

We are solving the inequality:
(15)x>(15)5\left(\frac{1}{5}\right)^x > \left(\frac{1}{5}\right)^5

Step 1: Recognize the properties of exponential functions.

The base 15\frac{1}{5} is less than 1. For bases less than 1, the inequality direction reverses when the exponents are compared.

Step 2: Compare the exponents.

Because 15<1\frac{1}{5} < 1, the inequality becomes: x<5x < 5

Step 3: Final Answer.

The correct solution is x<5x < 5.

Correct Option:

The answer is the last one: x<5x < 5.


Would you like further explanation on this?
Here are 5 related questions to explore this concept deeper:

  1. How do exponential inequalities differ for bases greater than 1 vs. bases less than 1?
  2. Can you solve (12)x>(12)3(\frac{1}{2})^x > (\frac{1}{2})^3 using the same method?
  3. What happens if the inequality were reversed, i.e., (15)x<(15)5(\frac{1}{5})^x < (\frac{1}{5})^5?
  4. How would you approach solving exponential inequalities with different bases?
  5. What role does logarithms play in solving inequalities with the same base?

Tip: Always remember the behavior of exponential functions when the base is less than 1—it decreases as the exponent increases!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inequalities
Exponential Functions

Formulas

If a^x > a^y for a < 1, then x < y

Theorems

Properties of Exponential Inequalities

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10