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Solving Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
A series of free Intermediate Algebra Video Lessons from Brightstorm online Algebra series.
Common and Natural Logarithms
We can use many bases for a logarithm, but the bases most typically used are the bases of the common logarithm and the natural logarithm. The common logarithm has base 10, and is represented on the calculator as log(x). The natural logarithm has base e, a famous irrational number, and is represented on the calculator by ln(x). The natural and common logarithm can be found throughout Algebra and Calculus.
Change of Base Formula
When we encounter logarithms with bases not of the common or natural logarithm, we often need the change of base formula. The change of base formula allows us to convert a logarithm from one base to another. By using the change of base formula, we can change a logarithmic term to allow us to input it into a calculator. Most calculators only accept logarithms of base 10 or base e.
Solving Exponential Equations with the Different Bases
Sometimes we are given exponential equations with different bases on the terms. In order to solve these equations we must know logarithms and how to use them with exponentiation. We can access variables within an exponent in exponential equations with different bases by using logarithms and the power rule of logarithms to get rid of the base and have just the exponent.
Solving Logarithmic Equations
Just as we can use logarithms to access exponents in exponential equations, we can use exponentiation to access the insides of a logarithm. Solving logarithmic equations often involves exponentiating logarithms in order to get rid of the log and access its insides. Sometimes we can use the product rule, the quotient rule, or the power rule of logarithms to help us with solving logarithmic equations.
Solving a Logarithmic Equation with Multiple Logs
When given a problem on solving a logarithmic equation with multiple logs, students should understand how to condense logarithms. By condensing the logarithms, we can create an equation with only one log, and can use methods of exponentiation for solving a logarithmic equation with multiple logs. This requires knowledge of the product, quotient and power rules of logarithms.
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