Why is my computer giving different answers for logarithmic laws?

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The discussion centers on a discrepancy in logarithmic calculations using a computer program, specifically regarding the equation log(x+1/3) = log(3x+1). Users note that substituting values into this equation yields different results, leading to confusion. The conversation highlights that the derivative of logarithmic functions varies depending on the base used, with the common natural logarithm (base e) being a specific case. It is suggested that the computer program may be using a logarithm base other than e, which could explain the differing outputs. Understanding the base of the logarithm is crucial for resolving these inconsistencies in calculations.
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I'm using this computer program:
It tells me that:
log(x+1/3)=log(3x+1)
Why is that so? I plug in values: they give different answers...!
 
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alingy1 said:
I'm using this computer program:
It tells me that:
log(x+1/3)=log(3x+1)
Why is that so? I plug in values: they give different answers...!

\log(3x+1)=\log(3(x+1/3))=\log(3)+\log(x+1/3)

Since \log(3)\neq 0 for any base of log, something more elusive must be happening.
 
The reason I am asking this is that I am trying to calculate the integral of 1/(3x+1).
I found it equals (1/3)(integral of (1/(x+1/3))=1/3ln((x+1/3)). But, the computer says it is wrong!
 
alingy1 said:
The reason I am asking this is that I am trying to calculate the integral of 1/(3x+1).
I found it equals (1/3)(integral of (1/(x+1/3))=1/3ln((x+1/3)). But, the computer says it is wrong!

\frac{d(\log{x})}{dx}=\frac{1}{x}

only applies when the base of log is e (usually denoted ln(x)). In general,

\frac{d(\log_{a}{x})}{dx}=\frac{1}{x\ln{a}} since \log_{a}{x}=\frac{\ln{x}}{\ln{a}} hence \frac{d(\log_{a}{x})}{dx} = \frac{d(\frac{\ln{x}}{\ln{a}})}{dx}=\frac{1}{\ln{a}}\frac{d(\ln{x})}{dx}=\frac{1}{\ln{a}}\cdot\frac{1}{x}

Maybe your computer is using a base other than e?
 
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