How Do You Calculate Log Base 2 on a Scientific Calculator?

[starchild75]

Homework Statement

2^x=1500. solve for x. I need to know the key strokes on my scientific calculator. If I push log, it assumes log base 10. I need base 2.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[bob1182006]

do you know of a formula that can be used to "change bases" for logs?

 

[starchild75]

I don't recall it. Can you give it to me? Is there no way to find the log base 2 on a calculator?

 

[bob1182006]

If i remember right it's
$$log_b a = \frac{log_k a}{log_k b}$$
Where k is the base you're going to. In this case it would be base 10 so just log in your calculator.

 

[starchild75]

What do you put in place of a and b?

 

[starchild75]

I got that to work. I figured it out. Thanks a lot. It just seemed like there was a way to figure that out on a calculator but I can't remember for sure.


Starchild