Exponent problem - help!

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Exponent problem - help!

by miscbelle » Thu Jun 18, 2009 12:31 pm
If 2^x - 2^(x-2) = 3(2^13), what is the value of x?

a. 9
b. 11
c. 13
d. 15
e. 17

Please explain

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by vasbli » Thu Jun 18, 2009 1:07 pm
2^x - 2^(x-2) = 3(2^13)

1. Factorization by 2^(x-2) as it is the highest factor of 2^x - 2^(x-2)
(2^2-1)x2^(x-2)=3(2^13)
3x2^(x-2)=3(2^13), ie by dividing by 3 each side of equation
2^(x-2)=2^13

hence x-2=13
x=15

D