Logarithmic Functions and Equations 2
Logarithmic Functions and Equations 2
Functions and
Equations
• Represents real-life
situations using logarithmic
OBJECTIVES: functions;
• Distinguishes among
logarithmic function and
logarithmic equation
• Illustrates the law of
logarithms
A logarithmic function is a function
defined by
if and only if
Definition of for all positive real numbers x and b.
Logarithmic The equivalent logarithmic function of
is , read as “x is equal to the logarithm
Function of y to the base 2”.
A logarithmic equation in one variable is an equation involving logarithms of
expression containing the variable.
Here are other examples. Observe how exponential equations is converted to
its equivalent logarithmic equation.
Exponential Equation Logarithmic Equation
Solving
Logarithmic
Equations
Note that the logarithm of a number to a certain base is merely the exponent of
the base used to raise that base to produce the number.
EXAMPLE 1:
Express each exponential equation in its equivalent logarithmic equation.
c.
d.
SOLUTION:
Remember: Logarithm is merely an exponent.
c.
d.
EXAMPLE 2:
Express each logarithmic equation in its equivalent exponential form.
c.
d.
SOLUTION:
c.
d.
Letb be a positive number not equal to 1. Let x and y
be any positive number and n be any real number.
Then,
LAW 1:
Laws of LAW 2:
Logarithms
LAW 3:
Since logarithms are exponents, these laws can be
proven by using the appropriate rules of exponents.
Following are proofs of laws.
The logarithm of a product is equal to the sum of the logarithms of
its factors.
Proof: Let
Proof: Let
LAW 2
Definition of Logarithm
Proof: Let
e.
To condense a logarithmic expression, we write the sum and difference of two or more
expressions as a single logarithmic expression.
EXAMPLE 2:
Write the sum or difference as a single logarithm.
a. d.
b. e.
c.
SOLUTION:
d.
b.
e.
c.
As with exponential functions, the most widely used
base for logarithmic functions is the number e, where .
The logarithmic function with base e is the natural
logarithmic function and is denoted by the special symbol
ln x, read as “the natural logarithm of x” or “el en of x”.
Natural
The function defined by
Logarithms
Is called the natural logarithmic function.