Which equation is equivalent to $\log _3(x+5)=2$ ?


A$3^2=\left[\log _3(x+5)\right]^3$
B$2^3=\left[\log _3(x+5)\right]^2$
C$3^2=x+5$
D$2^3=x+5$

Verified Answer :

  • Recognize the logarithmic property \(\log_b(A) = C \iff b^C = A\).
  • Identify the components: \(b = 3\), \(A = x + 5\), and \(C = 2\).
  • Convert the equation to the equivalent exponential form \(3^2 = x + 5\).
  • The correct choice is \(\boxed{3^2 = x + 5}\).

Explanation

  1. Understanding Logarithmic Equations

The given equation is \(\log_3(x+5) = 2\). We know that a logarithmic expression of the form \(\log_b(A) = C\) is equivalent to the exponential expression \(b^C = A\), provided that \(b > 0, b eq 1,\) and \(A > 0\). This definition allows us to transform logarithmic equations into algebraic equations that are often easier to solve.

  1. Transforming the Equation

In the equation \(\log_3(x+5) = 2\), we can identify the components based on the standard logarithmic form \(\log_b(A) = C\):

  • The base \(b\) is \(3\).
  • The argument \(A\) is \(x + 5\).
  • The value \(C\) is \(2\).

By substituting these values into the equivalent exponential form \(b^C = A\), we obtain the equation \(3^2 = x + 5\).

  1. Selecting the Correct Equation

Now we compare our derived equation, \(3^2 = x + 5\), with the given options:

  • \(3^2 = [\log_3(x+5)]^3\)
  • \(2^3 = [\log_3(x+5)]^2\)
  • \(3^2 = x + 5\)
  • \(2^3 = x + 5\)

Our result perfectly matches the third option. Thus, the equation equivalent to \(\log_3(x+5) = 2\) is \(3^2 = x + 5\).

Examples

Logarithmic properties are fundamental in many real-world applications where quantities change exponentially, such as calculating the pH of a solution, measuring sound intensity in decibels, or analyzing the growth of populations or investments. Understanding how to convert logarithmic expressions to exponential ones is a crucial skill for solving these types of equations. For example, if you are determining the time \(t\) it takes for an investment to grow to a certain amount using the formula \(A = P(1+r)^t\), you would take the logarithm of both sides to isolate \(t\), then potentially convert back to exponential form for calculation.