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Ch. 4 - Inverse, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions
Chapter 5, Problem 19

Find each value. If applicable, give an approximation to four decimal places. See Example 1. log(387 * 23)

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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. The logarithm log_b(x) answers the question: 'To what power must the base b be raised to produce x?' Understanding logarithms is essential for simplifying complex multiplication and division into manageable addition and subtraction.
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Properties of Logarithms

The properties of logarithms, such as the product, quotient, and power rules, are crucial for simplifying logarithmic expressions. For instance, the product rule states that log_b(xy) = log_b(x) + log_b(y), which allows us to break down the logarithm of a product into the sum of logarithms. These properties facilitate easier calculations and approximations when dealing with logarithmic functions.
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Approximation and Rounding

Approximation involves estimating a value to a certain degree of accuracy, often rounding to a specified number of decimal places. In the context of logarithms, it is common to provide results rounded to four decimal places for clarity and precision. Understanding how to round numbers correctly is essential for presenting results in a standardized format, especially in mathematical and scientific contexts.
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