Math Problem Statement

in the question above the first log is to the base of x

Solution

Thank you for the clarification. Let's revisit the equation with the correct base:

The equation given is:

logx4+log4x=2\log_{x} 4 + \log_{4} x = 2

Let's solve this step by step.

1. Express the equation in terms of logarithms:

  • The equation is already expressed in terms of logarithms. We'll start by isolating one of the logarithms to solve for xx.

2. Use the property of logarithms:

  • We'll rewrite the equation as it stands: logx4+log4x=2\log_{x} 4 + \log_{4} x = 2

3. Consider the property logab=1logba\log_a b = \frac{1}{\log_b a}:

  • Notice that the term log4x\log_{4} x can be rewritten using the change of base formula, which states log4x=1logx4\log_{4} x = \frac{1}{\log_x 4}. However, in this case, we'll try another approach.

4. Substitute logx4=y\log_x 4 = y (where y=logx4y = \log_x 4):

  • So, y+1y=2y + \frac{1}{y} = 2.

5. Multiply through by yy to eliminate the fraction:

  • This gives: y2+1=2yy^2 + 1 = 2y
  • Rearranging gives us a quadratic equation: y22y+1=0y^2 - 2y + 1 = 0

6. Solve the quadratic equation:

  • This equation can be factored as: (y1)2=0(y - 1)^2 = 0
  • Therefore, y=1y = 1.

7. Substitute back y=logx4y = \log_x 4:

  • Since y=logx4=1y = \log_x 4 = 1, this implies: x1=4x^1 = 4
  • Therefore, x=4x = 4.

Final Solution:

The value of xx that satisfies the equation is x=4x = 4.

Would you like to explore any further details or ask any other questions?


Here are some related questions:

  1. How does the change of base formula work for logarithms?
  2. Can you solve another equation involving logarithms with different bases?
  3. What happens when the base of a logarithm is a variable?
  4. How can you graph logarithmic functions with different bases?
  5. What are some real-life applications of logarithmic functions?

Tip: Quadratic equations often appear when dealing with logarithms and exponents. Remember to check for possible factorization to simplify the solution process.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Logarithms
Quadratic Equations

Formulas

Change of base formula for logarithms

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12