What is the value of \(x\) in the equation \(3^{x+1} = 81\)?

Prepare for the Accuplacer Advanced Algebra and Functions Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations to enhance your skills. Get exam-ready!

Multiple Choice

What is the value of \(x\) in the equation \(3^{x+1} = 81\)?

Explanation:
To find the value of \(x\) in the equation \(3^{x+1} = 81\), one effective approach is to rewrite the equation by expressing 81 as a power of 3. Knowing that \(81 = 3^4\), we can substitute this into the equation: \[ 3^{x+1} = 3^4 \] Since the bases are the same (both are base 3), we can set the exponents equal to each other: \[ x + 1 = 4 \] To isolate \(x\), we subtract 1 from both sides of the equation: \[ x = 4 - 1 \] This simplifies to: \[ x = 3 \] Thus, the value of \(x\) is indeed 3. This calculation shows that when the equation is simplified by expressing 81 in terms of base 3, we find the exponent directly, demonstrating that understanding exponential relationships is critical in problems involving powers.

To find the value of (x) in the equation (3^{x+1} = 81), one effective approach is to rewrite the equation by expressing 81 as a power of 3. Knowing that (81 = 3^4), we can substitute this into the equation:

[

3^{x+1} = 3^4

]

Since the bases are the same (both are base 3), we can set the exponents equal to each other:

[

x + 1 = 4

]

To isolate (x), we subtract 1 from both sides of the equation:

[

x = 4 - 1

]

This simplifies to:

[

x = 3

]

Thus, the value of (x) is indeed 3. This calculation shows that when the equation is simplified by expressing 81 in terms of base 3, we find the exponent directly, demonstrating that understanding exponential relationships is critical in problems involving powers.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy