Given log 10(3) = 0.477 and (1000)^x = 3, find x by applying change-of-base concepts to exponential–log relations.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 0.159

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We relate an exponential equation to logarithms by taking the common logarithm of both sides or by comparing powers of 10 directly.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • (1000)^x = 3
  • log 10(3) = 0.477 (approximate)


Concept / Approach:
Since 1000 = 10^3, we have (10^3)^x = 10^{3x}. Equate exponents via logs: 10^{3x} = 3 ⇒ 3x = log 10(3) ⇒ x = log 10(3)/3.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Write 1000 as 10^3: (10^3)^x = 10^{3x}Set equal to 3: 10^{3x} = 3Take log base 10: 3x = log 10(3) = 0.477x = 0.477 / 3 = 0.159


Verification / Alternative check:
10^{0.477} ≈ 3, so 10^{3·0.159} ≈ 10^{0.477} ≈ 3, confirming the value of x.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Other decimals correspond to dividing by 10 or 100 instead of 3, or to unrelated operations; 10 is clearly far outside the correct scale.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting that 1000 = 10^3 and using base e without adjusting leads to numerical mistakes; the ratio approach avoids these slips.


Final Answer:
0.159

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion