Logarithm questions might seem tricky at first, but they’re actually just smart ways to deal with really big (or really small) numbers. These questions help you break down tough calculations into simpler steps using special rules called logarithm properties.In many problem-solving situations, you’ll come across tasks that involve converting between forms, solving equations, or simplifying expressions.The best part? Once you get the hang of the rules, solving logarithm questions can feel like solving a puzzle. With a little practice, you’ll start to notice patterns and develop a better grip on exponential and algebraic problems too.
Table of Contents
Understanding the logarithm properties is essential for solving logarithm questions efficiently. Key logarithm properties include:
Product Property:
logb(M×N)=logbM+logbN
Quotient Property:
logb(M/N)=logbM−logbN
Power Property:
logb(Mk)=k×logbM
Change of Base Property:
logbM=logkM/logkb
Zero and One Properties:
logb(1)=0
logb(b)=1
Solution:
We know, a^b = c ⇒ log_a c = b
Here, 2^4 = 16.
So, log₂16 = 4.
Solution:
We know, log_a c = b ⇒ a^b = c
So, log₁₀1000 = 3 ⇒ 10³ = 1000.
Solution:
log₃81 = x
⇒ 3^x = 81
But 81 = 3^4.
So, 3^x = 3^4 ⇒ x = 4.
∴ log₃81 = 4.
Solution:
log₂(x - 3) = 4
⇒ 2^4 = x - 3
⇒ 16 = x - 3
⇒ x = 19.
Solution:
log_a m = n ⇒ a^n = m.
Now,
a^(n+1) = a^n × a = m × a.
So, a^(n+1) = ma.
Solution:
log(x+2) + log(x-2) = log 21
⇒ log[(x+2)(x-2)] = log 21
⇒ log(x² - 4) = log 21
⇒ x² - 4 = 21
⇒ x² = 25
⇒ x = ±5
Since log of a negative number is not defined,
∴ x = 5.
Solution:
log(48/25) - 2log(4/5) + log(27/32)
= log(48/25) - log((4/5)²) + log(27/32)
= log(48/25) - log(16/25) + log(27/32)
= log((48/25)/(16/25)) + log(27/32)
= log(48/16) + log(27/32)
= log 3 + log(27/32)
= log(3 × 27/32)
= log(81/32)
= 4log 3 - 5log 2.
Solution:
3log x + 2log y = log a
= log(x³) + log(y²)
= log(x³y²)
So, x³y² = a.
Solution:
LHS = 2log(12/18) - log(16/81) + log(3/2)
= log(12/18)² - log(16/81) + log(3/2)
= log(144/324) - log(16/81) + log(3/2)
= log(4/9) - log(16/81) + log(3/2)
= log((4/9)/(16/81)) + log(3/2)
= log(324/144) + log(3/2)
= log(9/4) + log(3/2)
= log(27/8)
= log 2 .
Solution:
log(x+6) + log(x-6) = 2log 5
⇒ log[(x+6)(x-6)] = log 25
⇒ log(x² - 36) = log 25
⇒ x² - 36 = 25
⇒ x² = 61
⇒ x = ±√61
Since log requires positive values,
∴ x = √61.
Try solving these logarithm questions on your own:
If log(x) = m + n and log(y) = m – n, find log(10x/y²) in terms of m and n.
Express 3⁻² = 1/9 in logarithmic form.
Convert log(0.01) = –2 into exponential form.
Find log₂₇(1/81)
Solve: log₇(2x² – 1) = 2
To solve logarithm questions, follow these steps:
Rewrite the Equation
Convert the logarithmic equation to exponential form using the logarithm formula.
Apply Properties
Use logarithm properties to simplify expressions.
Isolate the Variable
Solve for the variable using algebraic manipulation.
Check Domain
Ensure solutions make the logarithm argument positive.
Practicing logarithm questions with answer helps reinforce these methods and builds confidence.
b = base of the logarithm
m, n, a = positive real numbers
log typically means log base 10 (common log)
ln means log base e (natural log)
While solving logarithm questions, students often make the following errors:
Forgetting that the argument of a logarithm must be positive.
Mixing up logarithm properties, especially product and quotient rules.
Neglecting to convert between logarithmic and exponential forms when necessary.
Forgetting the domain restrictions, leading to extraneous solutions.
Tips:
Always check the domain of your answer.
Memorize key logarithm properties.
Practice logarithm questions with answer for fluency.
Use the logarithm formula carefully for conversions.
Mastering logarithm questions is essential for excelling in mathematics and numerous real-life fields. By practicing logarithm questions with answer, students develop confidence in handling diverse problems. Use logarithm properties and the logarithm formula regularly to simplify calculations and deepen your understanding.
Practicing logarithm questions ensures fluency in solving exponential equations, data analysis, and advanced mathematical topics.
Ans. A logarithm is the exponent to which the base must be raised to get a specific number. For example, log101000=3\log101000 = 3 because 103=100010^3 = 1000.
Ans. Since 102=10010^2 = 100, the value of log10100\log10100 is 2.
Ans. They simplify complex calculations by turning multiplication into addition, division into subtraction, and exponents into multiplication.
Ans. The value of a logarithm can be negative, but the argument (inside the log) must be positive.
Ans. Change of Base Formula:
logbx=logkxlogkx
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