If the curves \(y=\dfrac{1}{a}e^x\) and \(y=\ln(ax)\) (where \(a\) is positive) has only one point in common, then the value of \([a]\) is:
[Note: \([\cdot]\) denotes the greatest integer function.]
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept: Inverse functions intersect on \(y=x\); tangency condition for exactly one common point.
Step 1: Set up the intersection condition for the two curves.
For the curves $y=\dfrac{1}{a}e^x$ and $y=\ln(ax)$ to have a common point, we need:
$$\frac{1}{a}e^x = \ln(ax)$$
Step 2: Recognize that the two curves are inverse functions of each other.
Consider the curve $y=\dfrac{1}{a}e^x$. If we swap $x$ and $y$ to find the inverse function:
$$x = \frac{1}{a}e^y$$
$$ax = e^y$$
$$y = \ln(ax)$$
This is exactly the second curve. Therefore, the two curves are inverse functions of each other.
Step 3: Use the property that inverse functions intersect on the line $y=x$.
For two inverse functions to intersect, the intersection points must lie on the line $y=x$. Therefore, at any intersection point:
$$\frac{1}{a}e^x = x$$
Multiplying both sides by $a$:
$$e^x = ax$$
Step 4: Determine the condition for exactly one intersection point.
For the curves to have exactly one point in common, the equation $e^x = ax$ must have exactly one solution. Geometrically, this means the line $y=ax$ (passing through the origin) must be tangent to the curve $y=e^x$.
At the point of tangency, two conditions must hold:
- The curves intersect: $e^x = ax$
- The slopes are equal: $\dfrac{d}{dx}(e^x) = a$, which gives $e^x = a$
Step 5: Solve for the value of $a$.
From $e^x = a$ and $e^x = ax$, we have:
$$a = ax$$
$$x = 1$$
Substituting $x=1$ into $e^x = a$:
$$e^1 = a$$
$$a = e$$
Step 6: Find the greatest integer function value of $a$.
Since $a = e \approx 2.718$, we have:
$$[a] = [e] = 2$$
The value of $[a]$ is **2**, which corresponds to **Option 2**.
Correct Answer: 2