We can access variables within an exponent in exponential equations with different bases by using logarithms and the power rule of logarithms to get rid of the base and have just the exponent. In order to solve these equations we must know logarithms and how to use them with exponentiation. Determine if the numbers can be written using the same base.
Set the exponent of the left-hand side of the equation equal to the exponent of the right-hand side then solve the equation for the variable x.
Solving Exponential Equations with Different Bases Step 1. Rewrite each side in the equation as a power with a common base. Use the one-to-one property to set the exponents equal. 2 Get the logarithms of both sides of the equation.