Help! SAT Type Math Problem!

[MisterPresident]

If (3^k) * (4^m) = 12^20 for positive integers k and m, what is the value of k+m?

A. 7
B. 10
C. 12
D. 20
E. 40


At first glance I thought the answer was D, but the answer key says the correct answer is E... anyone care to explain why/how to solve this problem? Remember, it won't reequire anything more than basic high school algebra.

I feel embarrased... not because I missed it, but because after 15 minutes of looking at it, I still haven't figured out why I was wrong.

 

[PrincessGuard]

Uh, 12^20 = (3^20)(4^20)

Just factor out the 3^20.

 

[Broohaha]

princess, you a chick? pics?

 

[MisterPresident]

OMG wow, how noob, I just figured it out after posting here. 3 and 4 are two factors of 12. So 12^20 should logically equal 3^20 * 4^20, and therefore k+m = 20+20=40. E. Why can I never figure these out while taking the tests, yet the lightbulb comes on after I'm done. *sigh*

 

[Actaeon]

Originally posted by: Broohaha
princess, you a chick? pics?

"Her" profile name is "Andrew Chen"...

Still want pics?

 

[cpals]

Originally posted by: Actaeon

Originally posted by: Broohaha
princess, you a chick? pics?

"Her" profile name is "Andrew Chen"...

Still want pics?

I hate when people's screenames and avatars are feminine and yet they are male.

 

[CrazyPerson]

Originally posted by: cpals

Originally posted by: Actaeon

Originally posted by: Broohaha
princess, you a chick? pics?

"Her" profile name is "Andrew Chen"...

Still want pics?

I hate when people's screenames and avatars are feminine and yet they are male.

shemale?

 

[Excelsior]

Originally posted by: cpals

Originally posted by: Actaeon

Originally posted by: Broohaha
princess, you a chick? pics?

"Her" profile name is "Andrew Chen"...

Still want pics?

I hate when people's screenames and avatars are feminine and yet they are male.

I know an Andrew Chen. :Q