Logarithms

Build logarithmic functions and use logarithms to solve exponential equations.

29 Lessons377 Exercises

Counting Days

Log-Exponent Pairs

Inverse of Base 2

Inverse of Exponentiation

Negative Exponents

Fractional Exponents

Evaluating Logarithms

Level Check

Estimating Logs

Graphing Log Functions

Domain of the Logarithm

Fractional Bases

Graphing Fractional Bases

Level Check

The Product Rule

Proving the Product Rule

The Quotient Rule

The Power Rule

Proving the Power Rule

Transforming with Identities

Bases 2, 4 and 8

Bases 2 and 10

Converting Bases

Converting Bases Graphically

Taking Logs of Both Sides

The Unknown Inside a Log

Logs on Both Sides

Solutions and Domains

Using Log Identities

Graphing Solutions

Checking Solutions

Course description

The course introduces the inverse of exponential functions, logarithms. Through guided exploration, you'll grasp why logarithms answer questions like "how long until my investment doubles?" or "when will this substance decay to safe levels?" Logarithms unlock solutions to previously unsolvable problems. Beyond evaluating log expressions and using them to solve equations, you'll learn the "why" behind the algebraic rules. Rather than memorizing formulas, you'll investigate the logical foundation of logarithmic properties. You'll discover why multiplying inputs leads to adding outputs, why certain transformation rules hold true, and how these patterns connect to real-world scenarios. Each property emerges naturally from hands-on investigation and reasoning. By the end, you'll recognize logarithmic relationships in everyday life and deepen your understanding of exponential relationships.

Topics covered

  • Logarithms as inverse exponents
  • Evaluating logs in base 2, 3, and 10
  • Graphing log functions and their domain
  • Product, quotient, and power rules
  • Change of base
  • Solving exponential and logarithmic equations