Evaluate The Following Expression Without A Calculator:$\log_5 125$A. 5 B. 12 C. 25 D. 3
Introduction
In this article, we will evaluate the expression without using a calculator. This involves understanding the concept of logarithms and applying mathematical properties to simplify the expression. We will explore the properties of logarithms, including the definition of a logarithm, the change of base formula, and the properties of logarithmic functions.
Understanding Logarithms
A logarithm is the inverse operation of exponentiation. It is a mathematical function that takes a number as input and returns the exponent to which a base number must be raised to produce the input number. In other words, if , then . The base of the logarithm is the number that is being raised to the power, and the result is the exponent.
Evaluating
To evaluate , we need to find the exponent to which 5 must be raised to produce 125. We can start by expressing 125 as a power of 5.
Expressing 125 as a Power of 5
We can rewrite 125 as . This is because . Therefore, we can say that .
Verifying the Result
To verify our result, we can use the definition of a logarithm. If , then . This is indeed true, as we have already shown.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have evaluated the expression without using a calculator. We have used the properties of logarithms, including the definition of a logarithm and the change of base formula, to simplify the expression. We have also verified our result using the definition of a logarithm.
Final Answer
The final answer to the expression is .
Additional Information
- The logarithm of a number to a certain base is the exponent to which the base must be raised to produce the number.
- The change of base formula allows us to change the base of a logarithm from one base to another.
- The properties of logarithmic functions include the product rule, the quotient rule, and the power rule.
Common Mistakes
- Not understanding the definition of a logarithm.
- Not using the properties of logarithms to simplify the expression.
- Not verifying the result using the definition of a logarithm.
Tips and Tricks
- Use the properties of logarithms to simplify the expression.
- Verify the result using the definition of a logarithm.
- Use a calculator to check the result, but do not rely on it to find the answer.
Real-World Applications
- Logarithms are used in many real-world applications, including finance, science, and engineering.
- Logarithmic functions are used to model population growth, chemical reactions, and other phenomena.
- Logarithms are used to solve equations and inequalities involving exponential functions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have evaluated the expression without using a calculator. We have used the properties of logarithms, including the definition of a logarithm and the change of base formula, to simplify the expression. We have also verified our result using the definition of a logarithm. The final answer to the expression is .
Introduction
In our previous article, we evaluated the expression without using a calculator. We used the properties of logarithms, including the definition of a logarithm and the change of base formula, to simplify the expression. In this article, we will answer some common questions related to evaluating the expression .
Q&A
Q: What is the definition of a logarithm?
A: A logarithm is the inverse operation of exponentiation. It is a mathematical function that takes a number as input and returns the exponent to which a base number must be raised to produce the input number.
Q: How do I evaluate the expression ?
A: To evaluate the expression , you need to find the exponent to which 5 must be raised to produce 125. You can start by expressing 125 as a power of 5.
Q: How do I express 125 as a power of 5?
A: You can rewrite 125 as . This is because .
Q: Why is ?
A: Because , therefore .
Q: Can I use a calculator to evaluate the expression ?
A: Yes, you can use a calculator to evaluate the expression . However, it is not necessary to use a calculator to find the answer.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when evaluating the expression ?
A: Some common mistakes to avoid when evaluating the expression include not understanding the definition of a logarithm, not using the properties of logarithms to simplify the expression, and not verifying the result using the definition of a logarithm.
Q: What are some real-world applications of logarithms?
A: Logarithms are used in many real-world applications, including finance, science, and engineering. Logarithmic functions are used to model population growth, chemical reactions, and other phenomena.
Q: Can I use the change of base formula to evaluate the expression ?
A: Yes, you can use the change of base formula to evaluate the expression . The change of base formula is , where is any positive real number.
Q: How do I use the change of base formula to evaluate the expression ?
A: To use the change of base formula to evaluate the expression , you need to choose a base and then use the formula .
Q: What is the final answer to the expression ?
A: The final answer to the expression is .
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have answered some common questions related to evaluating the expression . We have used the properties of logarithms, including the definition of a logarithm and the change of base formula, to simplify the expression. We have also verified our result using the definition of a logarithm. The final answer to the expression is .
Additional Information
- The logarithm of a number to a certain base is the exponent to which the base must be raised to produce the number.
- The change of base formula allows us to change the base of a logarithm from one base to another.
- The properties of logarithmic functions include the product rule, the quotient rule, and the power rule.
Common Mistakes
- Not understanding the definition of a logarithm.
- Not using the properties of logarithms to simplify the expression.
- Not verifying the result using the definition of a logarithm.
Tips and Tricks
- Use the properties of logarithms to simplify the expression.
- Verify the result using the definition of a logarithm.
- Use a calculator to check the result, but do not rely on it to find the answer.
Real-World Applications
- Logarithms are used in many real-world applications, including finance, science, and engineering.
- Logarithmic functions are used to model population growth, chemical reactions, and other phenomena.
- Logarithms are used to solve equations and inequalities involving exponential functions.