Advanced MathVery hardExponential equation solved by substitution
Advanced Math practice question
If 9ˣ − 3ˣ − 6 = 0, what is the value of x?
Answer: 1
Let u = 3ˣ, so 9ˣ = u²: u² − u − 6 = (u − 3)(u + 2) = 0. Since u > 0, u = 3, so x = 1.
Common wrong answers
- If you answered 2
- 2 gives 81 − 9 − 6 = 66.
- If you answered 3
- 3 is the value of 3ˣ, not x.
- If you answered -2
- −2 is the rejected value of u.
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