Final answer:
The properties of exponents and logarithms allow for simplifying and solving exponential equations by manipulating exponents, such as multiplying and dividing quantities, raising a power to another power, and using the inverse relationship between exponents and logarithms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The properties of exponents are essential for solving exponential equations because they allow for the manipulation of the equations into forms that are easier to solve. The exponential and natural logarithm are inverse functions, meaning ln (e^x) = x and e^(ln x) = x. By using this relationship, any base number b can be expressed as e^(ln b), making complex calculations more manageable.
When multiplying exponential quantities, we can apply the rule where the exponents are added together, such as in (a^m) × (a^n) = a^(m + n). If we raise an exponent to another power, we multiply the exponents, which is depicted in the example of (5^3)^4 = 5^(3×4) = 5^12. Similarly, dividing exponential quantities involves subtracting exponents, and an exponential raised to a negative exponent signifies an inversion.
The logarithmic properties also come into play when working with exponents. The logarithm of a product is the sum of the logarithms: log(xy) = log(x) + log(y). This is useful when solving exponential equations since logarithms can help linearize them, making it easier to isolate the variable and find the solution.