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Understanding Logarithms Guide

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8 views

Understanding Logarithms Guide

Uploaded by

guransh1121
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Understanding Logarithms: A Guide

1. Introduction to Logarithms

A logarithm answers the question: "To what power must we raise a base to get a specific number?"

In mathematical terms, if you see something like: log_b(x) = y, this equation is saying:

"The base b raised to the power y equals x" or b^y = x.

For example, log_2(8) = 3 because 2^3 = 8.

2. Key Properties of Logarithms

There are several key properties that make logarithmic calculations simpler:

1. Product Rule: log_b(m * n) = log_b(m) + log_b(n)

2. Quotient Rule: log_b(m / n) = log_b(m) - log_b(n)

3. Power Rule: log_b(m^n) = n * log_b(m)

4. Change of Base Formula: log_b(x) = log_k(x) / log_k(b)

These properties are helpful when solving logarithmic equations or simplifying expressions.

3. Solving Logarithmic Equations

To solve logarithmic equations, apply logarithmic properties to isolate the variable.

Example:

Solve for x: log_2(x) = 5. Rewrite as an exponential form: x = 2^5, so x = 32.

For equations involving more complex logarithmic expressions, use properties like the Product,

Quotient, or Power rules to simplify first.


4. Real-World Applications of Logarithms

Logarithms are widely used in fields like population growth, chemistry, and sound measurement.

Example:

Population Growth: P = P_0 * (1 + r)^t. If P = 2 * P_0, apply logarithms to solve for t.

Radioactive Decay: A = A_0 * (1/2)^(t/T). Here, logarithms are used to determine the time it

takes for the substance to decay to a certain amount.

These applications often require transforming exponential equations using logarithms to solve

for time, rate, or other variables.

5. Practice Questions

1. Evaluate: log_10(1000), log_2(16)

2. Simplify: log_3(27) - log_3(3)

3. Solve for x: log_4(x) + log_4(16) = 3

4. The half-life of a substance is 5 years. If you start with 100 grams, how much remains

after 15 years? Use the formula: A = A_0 * (1/2)^(t/T).

Answers:

1. 3, 4

2. 2

3. x = 4

4. 12.5 grams

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