Solve the proof in problem involving logarithms

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of change of base in solving equations involving logarithmic functions. It is shown that by using change of base, the equations can be simplified to a more manageable form. The simplified form is \frac{1-y/x}{1+y/x}, which is derived from the equation \frac{y}{x}=\frac{log_na}{log_nc}=\frac{log_ba}{log_bc}.
  • #1
chwala
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Homework Statement
If ##log_a n=x## and ##log_c n=y##, where ##n≠1##, prove that, $$\frac {x-y}{x+y}=\frac {log_b c-log_b a}{log_b c+log_ba}$$
Relevant Equations
understanding of logs
In my approach, i made use of change of base; i.e

$$x-y=\frac {log_b n}{log_b a} -\frac {log_b n}{log_b c}$$
$$x-y=\frac {log_b c ⋅log_b n - log_b n ⋅logba}{log_b a ⋅log_bc}$$
and
$$x+y=\frac {log_b n}{log_b a} +\frac {log_b n}{log_b c}$$
$$x-y=\frac {log_b c ⋅log_b n + log_b n ⋅logba}{log_b a ⋅log_bc}$$

$$→\frac {x-y}{x+y}=\frac {log_b n}{log_b n}⋅ \frac {log_b c - logba}{log_b c +log_b a}$$
$$=\frac {log_b c - logba}{log_b c +log_b a}$$

Any other way of looking at it...
 
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  • #2
[tex]\frac{y}{x}=\frac{log_na}{log_nc}=\frac{log_ba}{log_bc}[/tex]
where b is any positive number. So we get the formula of
[tex]\frac{1-y/x}{1+y/x}[/tex]
as requested.
 
  • #3
anuttarasammyak said:
[tex]\frac{y}{x}=\frac{log_na}{log_nc}=\frac{log_ba}{log_bc}[/tex]
where b is any positive number. So we get the formula of
[tex]\frac{1-y/x}{1+y/x}[/tex]
as requested.
I do not seem to get what you did here...how did you arrive at this
[tex]\frac{y}{x}=\frac{log_na}{log_nc}=\frac{log_ba}{log_bc}[/tex]
 
  • #4
Between the middle and the right terms, there is a term
[tex]\frac{\log_ba/\log_bn}{\log_bc/\log_bn}[/tex]
 

FAQ: Solve the proof in problem involving logarithms

What are logarithms and why are they used in problem solving?

Logarithms are mathematical functions that help to solve problems involving exponential growth and decay. They are used to convert exponential equations into simpler forms, making it easier to solve them.

How do I know when to use logarithms in a problem?

Logarithms are typically used when the problem involves finding an unknown exponent or when the variable is in the exponent position. They can also be used when the problem involves exponential growth or decay.

What are the basic rules for solving logarithmic equations?

The basic rules for solving logarithmic equations include the product rule, quotient rule, and power rule. The product rule states that the logarithm of a product is equal to the sum of the logarithms of the individual factors. The quotient rule states that the logarithm of a quotient is equal to the difference of the logarithms of the individual terms. The power rule states that the logarithm of a number raised to a power is equal to the product of the power and the logarithm of the number.

Can logarithms be solved without a calculator?

Yes, logarithms can be solved without a calculator by using the properties and rules of logarithms to simplify the equation. However, a calculator may be helpful for more complex problems.

How can I check my answer when solving a logarithmic equation?

You can check your answer by plugging it back into the original equation and seeing if it satisfies the equation. You can also use a calculator to evaluate the logarithmic expression and compare it to the original value given in the problem.

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