[Math] Prove that there are exactly two positive real numbers $x$ such that $e^x=3x$

calculus

I have a sketch:

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How can I prove that there are exactly two positive real numbers $x$ such that $e^x=3x$ using the Mean Value Theorem/Rolle's Theorem? I'm not sure how to do this question as I can't see the significance of the gradient here… unless I'm missing something really obvious :S

Best Answer

If there are more than two solutions, then $f(x)=e^x-3x$ has at least three zeros. How many zeros must $f'(x)$ have?
To show there are at least two solutions, you might use the Intermediate Value Theorem.