The document introduces logarithms, defining them as the exponent that a base number must be raised to to equal the value. It provides examples of converting between logarithmic and exponential forms, and discusses properties of logarithms such as the product, quotient, and power properties. It also covers expanding, condensing, and changing the base of logarithmic expressions.
12. It is also very important to be able to start with a logarithmic expression and change this into exponential form. This is simply the reverse of what we just did.
18. When working with logarithms, if ever you get “stuck”, try rewriting the problem in exponential form. Conversely, when working with exponential expressions, if ever you get “stuck”, try rewriting the problem in logarithmic form.
23. Let b, u, and v be positive numbers such that b ≠1. Product property: log b uv = log b u + log b v Quotient property: log b u/v = log b u – log b v Power property: log b u n = n log b u
24. Expanding Logarithms You can use the properties to expand logarithms. log 2 7x 3 / y= log 2 7x 3 - log 2 y = log 2 7 + log 2 x 3 – log 2 y = log 2 7 + 3 · log 2 x – log 2 y
25. Expand: log 5mn = log 5 + log m + log n Expand: log 5 8x 3 = log 5 8 + 3 · log 5 x