Exponential Equations (Grade 12 NSC Matric Mathematics): Flashcards

Equation where unknown variable is in the exponent

Express all terms using same base, then equate exponents

$a^m \times a^n = a^{m+n}$

$a^m \div a^n = a^{m-n}$

$(a^m)^n = a^{m \times n}$

$a^{-m} = \frac{1}{a^m}$

$a^0 = 1$

Directly equate the exponents and solve

Convert all terms to prime factor bases

Use substitution, setting $a^x$ as a variable