Ratio of logarithms in various bases to other bases

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationships between logarithms in different bases, specifically exploring the ratio of logarithms in base 10, base e, and other bases. Participants are investigating how to express logarithms in various bases using natural logarithms and the implications for calculations on calculators that do not support arbitrary bases.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the ratio of logarithms in different bases can be expressed as log(a)/ln(a) = log(b)/ln(b) for constants a and b, and seeks to find a function f(x) that relates logy(c) to logx(c).
  • Another participant provides the change of base formula: log_b(a) = log_d(a) / log_d(b), indicating its usefulness in calculations.
  • Some participants express confusion regarding specific logarithmic values, with one noting that log(5) does not equal ln(5)/ln(6), and another correcting this to ln(5)/ln(10).
  • A participant questions the relationship between ln(5)/ln(x) and ln(5-x), indicating a misunderstanding of logarithmic properties.
  • One participant mentions the ratio of logarithms being equal to 1/log b, where b is the base, and discusses the practical implications of this ratio for calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationships between logarithmic values and the correct application of logarithmic identities. There is no consensus on the specific formulas or relationships discussed, and confusion persists regarding certain logarithmic expressions.

Contextual Notes

Some participants acknowledge errors in their understanding of logarithmic laws, which may affect the clarity of the discussion. There are unresolved questions about the exact relationships and formulas for logarithms in different bases.

Kael42
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I'm unsure as to if I am using the correct terminology, but what I mean by this is
log = logarithm in base 10.
ln = logarithm in base e.
logx = logarithm in base x.

Upon some investigation, I found that log(a)/ln(a)=log(b)/ln(b) where a and b are constants,
meaning that there is a ratio between the logarithms.

What is the function of this ratio, in terms of logx and logy?
I.e. If logy(c)=f(x)logx(c), what is f(x)?

The reason behind my search here is to find out how to put a logx (logarithm in base x) function in terms of ln. I want to experiment with various functions in logx on my graphics calculator, but it doesn't have the option to use logarithms in bases other than e and 10.
 
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\log_{b}(a) = \frac{\log_{d}(a)}{\log_{d}(b)}

If you are working with logs have a look at the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_logarithmic_identities" . Very useful
 
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I don't think so. As an example, log(5) does not equal ln(5)/ln(6).
 
Kael42 said:
I don't think so. As an example, log(5) does not equal ln(5)/ln(6).

\log_{10} 5 = 0.6989...
\frac{ln(5)}{ln(10)} = 0.6989...

I have no idea where you got ln(6) from...
 
My mistake. I missed that b was on both sides. So on the calculator, if I wanted a graph of the logx of 5, I would simply need y=ln5/lnx?
I.e., ln(5-x)?
 
ln5/lnx is not equal to ln(5-x)!

I'm not sure what you're trying to find.

If you just want to be able to find the logarithm of different bases, the change of base formula is what you want.

If you want the ratio between different bases, then the ratio is equal to 1/log b where b is your base. Take the base 10 log of your number and multiply by the ratio. (For example, the natural log of a number is always 2.30 times the base 10 log (plus change - slide rules only go to 3 significant digits and slide rules are one of the main reasons for knowing that ratio).

On a calculator, I'm not sure knowing the ratio will save you any steps.
 
Thanks BobG, I'm aware of the use of the ratio, I was just wondering what the formula for the ratio was.

As for my error... I blame fatigue. It was late and my head was addled. I messed up my log laws.
 

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