Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Exponential Equations
Exponential equations involve variables in the exponent and can often be solved by applying properties of exponents. In this case, the equation 5^(2x) ⋅ 5^(4x) can be simplified using the property that states a^m ⋅ a^n = a^(m+n). This allows us to combine the exponents before solving for the variable.
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Solving Exponential Equations Using Logs
Properties of Exponents
The properties of exponents are rules that govern how to manipulate expressions involving powers. Key properties include the product of powers, which states that when multiplying like bases, you add the exponents, and the power of a power, which states that when raising a power to another power, you multiply the exponents. Understanding these properties is essential for simplifying and solving exponential equations.
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Logarithms
Logarithms are the inverse operations of exponentiation and are used to solve equations where the variable is an exponent. For example, if you have an equation in the form a^x = b, you can use logarithms to isolate x by rewriting it as x = log_a(b). In this problem, once the exponential equation is simplified, logarithms may be used to find the value of x if necessary.
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