Problem 14

Question

Solve each exponential equation by expressing each side as a power of the same base and then equating exponents. $$5^{2-x}=\frac{1}{125}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

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Answer
The solution to the equation is \(x = 5\).
1Step 1: Express the equation with the same base
We see that we have base 5 on the left side, and \(\frac{1}{125}\) on the right side. \(\frac{1}{125}\) can be expressed as \(5^{-3}\) because \(5^{3} = 125\), and therefore \(\frac{1}{125} = 5^{-3}\). So, the equation is rewritten as: 5^{2-x} = 5^{-3}
2Step 2: Equate the powers and solve for x
Since the bases on both sides of the equation are equal, the equation becomes: 2-x = -3. Solving for x gives: x = 2 - (-3) = 5