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Ch. 4 - Inverse, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions
Chapter 5, Problem 21

Find each value. If applicable, give an approximation to four decimal places. See Example 1. log 518/342

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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 manipulating and solving equations involving exponential growth or decay.
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Change of Base Formula

The Change of Base Formula allows us to compute logarithms with bases other than those available on calculators. It states that log_b(a) can be expressed as log_k(a) / log_k(b) for any positive k. This is particularly useful when dealing with logarithms that are not easily calculated, enabling the use of common logarithms (base 10) or natural logarithms (base e) for simplification.
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Approximation and Rounding

Approximation and rounding are techniques used to simplify numerical results to a specified degree of precision. In this context, rounding to four decimal places means adjusting the number so that it has four digits after the decimal point, which is important for clarity and consistency in reporting results. Understanding how to round correctly is crucial in mathematical calculations to ensure accuracy and relevance.
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