6.

2A Solving Exponential
Equations and Inequalities
Objective: TSW solve exponential
equations and inequalities.

Some Notes

Exponential Equation unknown variables are

the exponents.
If two powers are equal and they have the same
base, then the exponents must be the same

ex. if bx = ay and a = b, then x = y.

If two powers are equal and they have the same

exponents, then the bases must be the same

ex. if bx = ay and x = y, then a = b.

2

To Solve Exponential Equations:

1.

Rewrite the Equation/Inequality so that the BASES are

the same number.
a.
b.

2.
3.

If the base is a number, just break it down with a factor

tree.
If the base is a fraction, FIRST write as a whole number by
using negative exponents.

Once the bases are equal, you can set the exponents
equal to each other and solve.
Check your solution!
3

ExamplesSolve and verify your

answer
1. 32x = 81

2. 2x = 83

3. 92x-1 = 36x

4. 42n-1 = 64

5. ()x = 42 x

6. 3y + 2 = 1/27

Lets Try a Couple Inequalities Now

7. 32x-1 > 1/243

8. 2x+2 > 1/32

Homework Time
pgs. 488-489 #s 1-4(all), 814(evens), 25-29(odds), 32-34(all)