What is a Logarithm?
A logarithm is the power to which a number (the base) must be raised to obtain another
number. It is expressed as:
This means ( b^c = a ).
Understanding Logarithms
The mathematical
representation of logarithms
Expression
The number obtained from
the exponentiation
Result
The number being raised to a
power
Base
The power to which the base
is raised
Logarithm
---
Definition of Logarithmic Functions
A logarithmic function is defined as:
where ( b ) is the base of the logarithm, and ( x ) is the argument. The function is only defined
for(x>0).
Logarithmic Function Structure
Input value for the logarithm
Argument
Determines the scale of the
logarithm
Base
Core function defined by base
Logarithmic and argument
Function
Choose the appropriate logarithmic function parameters for effective use.
Base
Argument
Determines the
Represents the input
scale of the
value
logarithm
---
Common Bases
• Base 10
• Base e
• Base 2
Base 10
Commonly used in general
calculations and scientific
notation.
Base e
Which base of
logarithm should be Essential in calculus and
used? natural phenomena modeling.
Base 2
Important in computer science
and binary systems.
Most Used Properties of Logarithms
1. Product Property
2. Quotient Property
3. Power Property
Fundamental Logarithmic Properties
Power Property
Product Property
This property
simplifies the This property
logarithm of a power simplifies the
into the product of the logarithm of a product
exponent and the into the sum of
logarithm. logarithms.
Quotient Property
This property
simplifies the
logarithm of a quotient
into the difference of
logarithms.
Change of Base Formula
To convert logarithms from one base to another:
where ( k ) can be any positive number.
Logarithm Base Conversion
Apply
Choose New Conversion
Logarithm Base b Base k Formula Logarithm Base k
Initial logarithmic Select a positive Divide logarithms Converted logarithmic
expression number with base k expression
---
Tricks to Find Logarithmic Values
1. Using Known Values: Memorize logs of common numbers
Example :-
2. Estimation: For values between known logs, use linear interpolation.
3. Using Properties: Break down complex logs into simpler components using
properties.
How to find logarithmic values?
Use Estimation
Memorize Logs Helpful for values Apply Properties
Useful for quick recall of between known logs Effective for simplifying
common values complex logs
Real-Life Applications of Logarithms
1. Earthquake Measurement: The Richter scale uses logarithms to measure the
magnitude of earthquakes.
2. pH Scale: The pH scale in chemistry is logarithmic, measuring acidity or alkalinity.
3. Sound Intensity: Decibels (dB) are calculated using logarithmic functions to express
sound intensity.
Logarithmic Applications in Science
Sound Intensity
pH Scale
Earthquake Measurement
Logarithms
Logarithmic Scales in Science
• Acoustics: Sound levels are measured in decibels, which are logarithmic.
• Richter Scale: Measures the energy released by earthquakes logarithmically.
Comparing scales: Linear vs. Logarithmic
measurement of intensity.
Linear Logarithmic
Sound Level Earthquake
Measures sound Intensity
pressure linearly
Measures
earthquake energy
logarithmically
---
Logarithmic Graphs
• The graph of ( y = \log_b(x) ) is a curve that increases slowly and approaches the
y-axis but never touches it.
• The x-intercept occurs at ( (1, 0) ) since ( \log_b(1) = 0 ).
Logarithmic Function Graph
Logarithmic Function
Core concept of the graph
Curve Shape
Slow increase approaching y-axis
---
X-intercept
Point where graph crosses x-axis
---
Inverse of Exponential Functions
Logarithmic functions are the inverse of exponential functions:
Multiplication
operation Division
operation
Growth-oriented
nature Decay-oriented
nature
Exponential Functions
Logarithmic Functions
Understanding Inverse Relationships in Functions
Solving Logarithmic Equations
To solve equations involving logarithms:
1.Isolate the logarithm.
2. Convert to exponential form.
3. Solve for the variable.
Solving Logarithmic Equations
Logarithmic Isolate Exponential Solve Variable Variable
Equation Logarithm Form Determine the Solution
Complex, unsolved Simplify equation Convert logarithmic to variable's value Simple, solved
equation terms exponential equation
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Forgetting the domain: Logarithms are undefined for non-positive values.
• Misapplying properties: Ensure correct application of product, quotient, and power
properties.
Common Mistakes in Logarithmic Functions
Correct application Misapplying
with non-positive properties with
values non-positive values
1 2
Accurately applying Incorrectly applying
properties to undefined properties to undefined
logarithmic values. logarithmic values.
Correct application Misapplying
with positive properties with
values positive values
3 4
Accurately applying Incorrectly applying
properties to valid properties to valid
logarithmic values. logarithmic values.
Mastering Logarithmic Equations
3 Solve Logarithm
Simplify
Expression 2
1 Find Variable
Summary of Key Points
• Logarithms represent the exponent needed to reach a number.
• Key properties include product, quotient, and power rules.
• Logarithms have practical applications in various fields.
• Understanding logarithmic functions is essential for advanced mathematics.
Cycle of Logarithmic Understanding
Advance
Mathematics Define Logarithms
Utilize logarithms in Understand the basic
higher-level math. concept of logarithms.
Apply in Fields Learn Properties
Use logarithms in Master key logarithmic
practical scenarios. properties.
Conclusion
Logarithmic functions are a vital part of mathematics with numerous applications in real life.
Mastering their properties and calculations will enhance problem-solving skills and
understanding of complex concepts in mathematics and science.
Mastering Logarithms
Logarithmic Properties
Real-Life Applications
Enhanced
Problem-
Solving Skills
Complex Concepts
