Question

1. solve the equation.

$7^x = 49$
what is an appropriate first step to solve for x? select the correct choice below and fill in the answer box to complete your choice.
a. multiply each side of the equation by

.
b. divide each side of the equation by

.
c. subtract

from each side of the equation.
d. write each side of the equation as a power of

.
the solution is $x = $
.
(simplify your answer. use a comma to separate answers as needed.)

Explanation:

Step1: Rewrite 49 as power of 7

$49 = 7^2$

Step2: Match exponents (same base)

Since $7^x = 7^2$, $x=2$

Step3: Identify first step

Rewrite both sides as powers of 7.

Answer:

Correct first step choice: D. Write each side of the equation as a power of $\boldsymbol{7}$.
The solution is $x = 2$