Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
Properties of Logarithms
2:29 minutes
Problem 59c
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionIn Exercises 58–59, use common logarithms or natural logarithms and a calculator to evaluate to four decimal places. log4 0.863
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Logarithms
Logarithms are the inverse operations of exponentiation, allowing us to solve for the exponent in equations of the form b^y = x, where b is the base, y is the exponent, and x is the result. The logarithm log_b(x) answers the question: 'To what power must the base b be raised to obtain x?' Understanding logarithms is essential for evaluating expressions like log4(0.863).
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Change of Base Formula
The Change of Base Formula allows us to convert logarithms from one base to another, which is particularly useful when a calculator only computes logarithms in base 10 (common logarithm) or base e (natural logarithm). The formula is log_b(a) = log_k(a) / log_k(b), where k is any positive number. This enables the evaluation of log4(0.863) using a calculator by converting it to a more manageable base.
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Common and Natural Logarithms
Common logarithms (log) use base 10, while natural logarithms (ln) use base e (approximately 2.718). These logarithms are widely used in various applications, including scientific calculations and financial modeling. Recognizing when to use each type is crucial for accurately evaluating logarithmic expressions and understanding their properties.
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