Question

Can someone help me please?

Answer 1

b = -1.

Explanation:

Since the bases are the same (they are both 5), you can set 3b - 1 equal to b - 3.

3b - 1 = b - 3

3b - b = -3 + 1

2b = -2

b = -1

To make sure you are correct...

5^(3 * -1 - 1) = 5^(-1 - 3)

5^(-3 - 1) = 5^(-4)

5^(-4) = 5^(-4)

Since it matches up, you know that b = -1.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

b = -1

Explanation:

5 ^ ( 3b-1) = 5 ^ ( b-3)

since the bases are the same, the exponents are the same

3b-1 = b-3

Subtract b from each side

3b-1-b = b-3-b

2b -1 = -3

Add 1 to each side3

2b-1+1 = -3+1

2b = -2

Divide by 2

2b/2 = -2/2

b =-1