6 Exponential Functions

Non-Foundation

SYMPHONY

Basic Knowledge Review.... ............. 6.3

NF 6.1
Laws of Rational IndicC.s.o............................... 6.8
NF 6.2 Exponential Equations ...............................................................6.17

NF 6.3 Exponential Functions and their Graphis....................................20

HKDSE
MATHEMATICS in Action
Compulsory Part THIRD EDITION Book 4B
 Number and Algebra

6.1 Laws of Rational Indices

N o n -f u d a t i o n In junior forms, we have learnt the laws of integral indices. In this section,
'Rational index' means that the
we shall see how the laws of indices are extended to rational indices.
index is a rational number.

First, we have to define a" and a" for a > 0. where m is an integer and n is
a positive integer, so that the laws of indices will still hold for rational
indices.

(1) Definition of af
In order to make the law
(a")! = a?^" holds for rational numbers p
and g, we have

(a"y"=

a" is an nth root of a. 4If x" = a, then x is an nth root of a.

Hence, we define:

a" = "a, where a > 0 and n is a positive integer

For example, 16' = /16 = 4 and 164 4/16 = 2

(2) Definition of a"

In order to make the law (a")! = aP~! holds for rational numbers
p and g, we have

a" "=(ay"=(aym
and a" = a"*i=(a"h=wam

Hence, we define:

where a > 0. m 1S integer

an
and n is a positive integer

For example, 49 = (/4) = 2'= and 4 /P - 164 = 8

laws of integral rational index A1g#1

6.8
 6 Exponential Functions

uonep j-uon
a and a", the laws of indices can be extended to
With the definitions of

rational indices.

For rational numbers p and a, and positive numbers a and b:

1. Zero and negative rational indices

Drilling Program

(i) a°= 1 (ii) a? =

2. Laws of rational indices

Law (1): al x al = apta

a'
Law (2): a' + a' = : aP"9

Law (3): (a")!: - apX9

Law (4): (ab)? = a'b?

Classwork

(In this classwork, all the variables are assumed to be positive.)

Put a '/' in the box if it is correct;
correct.
1. Determine whether each of the following is
otherwise, put a 'X' in the box.

Y
(a)
X (b)

~
0 X

>
indices.
your answers with positive
2. Simplify the following expressions and express

(a)
xi Xy
xP where p is a rational number.
Express each of the following in the form
j
3.

X
X (b) (x)'= (c)

6.9
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Example 6.1 Find the values of expressions with rational indices

Find the values of the following without using: calculator. Tips for Students

cubes of the
The squares and
(a) 273 (b)
25) (c) /82 following numbers are useful
36 in simplifying expressions
Solution with indices.

n'
(a) 273 = //27 40Ewa
27

16 64
Alternative Solution 25 125

273 = (33)3 36 216

343

_ 33x; Law (3): (a")! = aPx9

512

729
31
10 100 1000
= 2

(b) 25 36
36
25

216
125

Alternative Solution

Law (3): (a")! = ab*9

216
125

(c) 78 = (/8)2
22

6.10
 6 Exponential Functions

uonep .- N
Alternative Solution

/8?- 83

_ 23x; 4 Law (3): (a")! = aPX9

22

= 4

Quick Practice 6.1

Find the values of the following without using a calculator.

814 256=1 (c) /4

(a) (b)

=
625)

We can also find the values of expressions with rational indices using a

calculator. For example, we can find the values of

81- by keying in:

The order of the keys refers to the

calculator model CASIO fx-50FH II.
Note that the order may be different
which gives 27 for different models of calculators.

814 = 27

(ii)
B by keying in:

which gives 2.9240...

G -2.32 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

Ly Classwork
Use a calculator to find the values of the following, correct to 3 significant figures.

1. 154 = (cor. to 3 sig. fig.) 2. 7.52: (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

3. 0.1235 = (cor. to sig. fig.) 4. (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

6.11
 Number and Algebra

involving
Simplify expressions with one unknown

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Example rational indices or radicals

your
Assuming that a > 0. simplify the following expressions and express
answers with positive indices.
2x¾a
(a) (c)
(b) va'xJa

Solution

a3
(a) a?
a3 • Law (2):
77
Reminder

Do not forget to express the

answers with positive indices.

Tips for Students

In simplifying expressions
that consist of radicals, we

5X: write the radicals in index

a21 4 Law (3): (a")! = aP^g forms first.

as

2x1a
(c)

< Law (4); (ab)? = a"b"

Law (3): (a")! = a"xe

2a3

4-a

2a3
I Law (2):
16

a?

Quick Practice 6.2

Assuming that a> 0, simplify the following expressions and express your
answers with positive indices.

(a) a- X (b) vaxVa (c)

ai
=
at -
i =
=

6.12 = j

as
a
-
= 81
 6 Exponential Functions

uopte n j-
unknown
Simplify an expression with more than
one

Example involving rational indices or radicals

V abt
Assuming that a, b > 0, simplify and express your answer with

positive indices.

Solution

(ab)'

4a 353
&

4 Law (2): = aP"9

a'

452

Quick Practice 6.3

/ 16ab3
Assuming that a, b > 0, simplify and express your answer with
(a'b)
positive indices.

Example 6.4/ Solve

equations in the form x"

Solve the following equations for x > 0.

Tips for Students
(a) x?= (b) = 27
To solve equations in the
Solution for > 0, we
take the power of on both
m
(a) x? =
sides first, i.e. (

22

6.13
 Number and Algebra

J o n -f u d a t i o n
(b) -4 = 27

= 3-4

81

Quick Practice 6.4

Solve the following equations for x > 0.

(a) x3= 16 (b) 27

Further Practice Smart Hints

1. Find the values of the following without using a calculator.

(a) 3(-216)2 = 2165 =

(63,
5
(b)
= 36
2. Assuming that x > 0, simplify the following expressions and express your answers with positive
indices.
↑

(a) (/3) .275 3 (33/

5 Y

= ,

X (b) 4*-18* =(2-2

= 3 +X
= 35 = z
-
3X

3. Assuming that x,y >0, simplify the following expressions and express your answers with
positive indices.

(a)
= (b) /xy.

x[yzyzy =
- 3

= (x
+
j =

= =
= XT

Exercise 6A
(In this exercise, all the variables are assumed to be positive.)

Level

Express each of the following in the form x'

where p is a rational number. (1 - 4)
1. 2. 3.

6.14
 6 Exponential Functions

uonep j- N
Use calculator to find the value of each of the following. (Give your answers correct to 3 significant

figures.) (5 - 8)

734 6. 7. 234 8. 1.75

5.

Find the values of the following without using a calculator. (9- 14) (-Example 6.1)

9. 32s 10. 2163

11. 16' 12.

13. /93 14. (/-64)2

Simplify the following expressions and express your answers with positive indices. (15 - 18)

15. 16.

17. 18.

Simplify the following expressions and express your answers with positive indices. (19 - 22) ~Example 6.2

19. 20. Vaxta

21. 22. #axVa

Simplify the following expressions and express your answers with positive indices. (23 26)

a2
23. 24.

25. 26.

Solve the following equations. (27 - 30) - Example 6.4

27. 28. x5

29. 32 30. 64

6.15
 Number and Algebra

Level 2

Find the values of the following without using a calculator. (31 - 34)
31. 3x27z = z5xz = 9 32. 8 4
o u nz o Ez

33, x27 = (33x32 ,

5 34. =
(65)9 63 216
27
= =
=
33 = =

Simplify the following expressions and express your answers with positive indices. (35 - 38)

* 36.
* I

37. aA 2Sn orn tiwhumo38. 2 9a = (33a5 3az) x

= 3"an
= 81 at
Simplify the following expressions and express your answers with positive indices. (39 - 44) C-bample 63)
39. ( ,ab 40.
d
41. 42. axf* ab
43. Nm*(mi ) 4 # (2m n = n mu = mE
8n
25 m-5
=
=
b
t) Simplit
5

45.
Open-ended
and express your answer with a positive index.
=
(b) Hence, in each of the following, suggest two possible values for the variable.

() (fi y>▇

Simplify the following expressions. (46 - 47)

46. x27 z5
=
.

33x 3 47.
2( )
8-

48. Given that (4)=a, find the values of the following in terms of a.
4= 3

(a) 4k (b) 16 C 2+Zar

2

= =
(c) =

49, Given that 7 =b, find the values of the following in terms of b.
im +

(a)49 (b) (c) 7

3
= b =
765 Tem
=

I
=
b
6.16
 6 Exponential Functions

uonep j-uon
Solve the following equations. (50 - 52)

50. 64x2 27 51. (x- 52. 32

16

a-
53. It is given that = 1, where p and are non-negative integers.

(a) Express q in terms of p.

Open-ended

(b) Suggest two pairs of possible values for p and q.

6.2 Exponential Equations

An equation with an unknown index (or indices) is called an exponential
equation. Below are examples of exponential equations.

2* = 16, 7*-1= 5, 42x = 8*+1

Some of these exponential equations can be solved by expressing both

sides of the equation with the same base and applying the following
property:
a'=a'

For a > 0 and a # 1, x=y

if a* = a', then x = y.

© Concept Check
Note: In Book 4B Chapter 7, we will introduce the other method of

solving exponential equations, say 7*77: 5, where the two sides of Solve 2 = 21

the equation cannot be expressed with the same base.

Link to DSE &

Exam Focus (p. 6.48)
6.5 Solve an exponential equation
Example Exam-type Question 5

Solve the exponential equation 4* = /8.

Solution

4* = /8 Tips for Students

(2?)" =/23 Express both sides as powers of 2. Express both sides of the
equation with the same base.
22* = 22
2x NIw Ifa'= a', then x = ]
Reminder

1 A1 w
Check whether the answer
obtained satisfies the original

equation.

exponential equation 117512

6.17
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i r
Quick Practice 6.5

Solve the exponential equation 9* 27 32x z7 _

2x Ex = = -

Solve a more complicated exponential equation

Example 6.6

Solve the exponential equation 3**1 - 3* = 18.

Solution

3*1 - 3* = 18
3(3) - 3* = 18 43* = 3 (3*)

3(3 - 1) = 18 Take out the common factor 3*

2(3*) = 18
3* = 9 Reminder

3*= 32 Express both sides as powers of 3. Check whether the answer

obtained satisfies the original
x=2
equation.

Quick Practice 6.6

Solve the exponential equation 2* + 2*71 = 48. 2+ 2 = 48
*
2 (1 + z) = 48
Further Practice Smart Hints

24 = 3
1. Solve the following exponential equations. -- 5
(a) 23x . 4*-1 = 1 (b) 7x+2 _ 7* = 336

2. Solve the following simultaneous equations.

(a) [27= 1

[5*+y - /125 = 0

Exercise 6B

Level

Solve the following exponential equations. (1 - 6) ~Example 6.5

1. 32 = 2. 5* =
125
3. 7*+1 = 149 4. 43* =

5. 36*7- 6. (/9)* = 273

216

6.18
 6 Exponential Functions

w-p istnenoge
Solve the following exponential equations. (7 - 10)
7. 22-=1 1O er006 28.
. 3r+6 = 81b 10. 25r-2
oiton sttnen0ge 2
Solve the following exponential equations. (11- 14) Eample 6
bi
11. 3 + +3 = 12 52-52- =4

a aead alosu14. 25 -g =-20

12.
Sn00 2no ao▇ odez
1 , 2 +-3(2-)=8a 14. o note0 aa*be00z

Level 2 n ubtn eio a A

1 0

Solve the following exponential equations. (15 - 18)mun ha1 o 1o b

15.5ir= 125(25") 23x 23 =
+2x
16, 2 8
162
6
+

22x
17. 9'"(3i*)= 27 -thetAT18. 4r+3
8 -
is

+b
22x -
8 -
3x+3

Solve the following exponential equations. (19 - 22) ( WdB)

19. 72x+49r- = 50e5 20. 4(2) -4 3 tg0d 1 bunil5bnn
4
2(24x) 24x2 24x 11 -

o toht iuioD ad od9, onon 10 (n

21. 2(42)-42-l+16" =1124 (2 - + 1) 11 *
-
=
22. 36**-6-8(36)- ato oyr g2x 620g2X 8
+ .
=
t
23x 24 6(6
= -
1 - 8) =
t
Solve the following simultaneous equations. (23 - 24) 62 =
6-3
23. 34= zay
24. (3"-9 = ()re ali
2*
(5 ty =I
= -
2 36'=6+62xear
62y =
+/

10 102b- 3
o sdo aul3
ey / bn0 hrhne( - ah I9u0
=
: 2:

25. It is given that 10" = 100 = 1000", where a, b and c are non-zero constants. Find a:b: a 1
34- 32y22 = 237
226. It is given that 3"= and 4 = 8, where X, y and z are non-zero constants. Find ) )
n
(
(a) x:Z, 3 2 X=
zy 2x =37 4y = 37
:
t00en liergh hiliraE srowos mo2i)
(b) (x+ ):(y+2),z X :
Y : Z
0
3y .
By 6 : 3 :
4
) -r
1
9 : 7 2e
r5 2 as9z
2ad o 0e
Tt n
((DE 3 S
o
1 2 n i
H p010

6.19e
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i Exponential Functions and their Graphs

6.3

Exponential Functions
Consider y = 5*.

For any value of x, there is only one corresponding value of y. In other 4For example, when x = 2, y = 25;
when x = 1, y = 5;
words, y = 5* is a function of x. when x = 0, y =

when x
A function in the form a® or f(x)= a where a > and a # 1, is called
an exponential function with base a.

are exponential functions.

For a > 0 and a# 1, a® is defined for any real number x. In fact, the
domain of an exponential function is all real numbers.
Think Further

Note: (i) When a = 1, If a > 1, is the value of a

always greater than 0 for all

y=a=1= for all real values of x, which is a constant
real numbers x?
function but not an exponential function.
(ii) When a < 0.
a is undefined for some values of x. 4e.g. Consider = (-5) . When

(iii) For irrational number X, the definition of a is beyond the y= (-5)= /-5 is NOT a real

scope of this book. number.

Find the values of expressions involving

Example exponential function

Given that f(x)= 3(4*) and g(x) = 0.7* find the values of the following
expressions.

(a) f(0) -g(1)

(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.)

Solution

(a) f(0)-8(1) = 3(4) - 0.7

= 3 - 0.7

2.3
Evaluate 3 (42.5) x 0.78
by keying in:
(b) $(2.5) x 8 = 3(425) x 0.78
0.7
= 80.3 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)
which gives 80.3193...

exponential function th Buits

6.20
 6 Exponential Functions

uoftep n j-uo
Quick Practice 6.7
Given that f(x)
oIe and p (x) = 5 (0.6*), find the values of the following

expressions.
(a) f(-1)+p(1) (b) f(1.8): p(0.8)
(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.)

506'
= 258 = 510 608)
=5" 8
.

+ =
0 0166
= ,

Example 6.8,
Problem relating to an exponential function

The population (P) of a town years after the beginning of 2021

is estimated by P = 48 000 (1.003)'.

(a) Find the estimated population of the town

(i) at the beginning of 2021,
(iil) at the beginning of 2031.

(b) Someone claims that the increase in the estimated

population of the town from the beginning of 2026 to the
beginning of 2031 will exceed 750. Do you agree? Explain
your answer.

(Give your answers correct to the nearest ten if necessary.)

Solution

(a) (i) The estimated population of the town at the beginning of 2021
= 48 000 (1.003)° 4 Substitute t = 0 into P = 48 000 (1.003).

= 48 000

(ii) The estimated population of the town at the beginning of 2031

Substitute t = 10 into P = 48 000 (1.003)".
= 48 000 (1.003)"
49 460 (cor. to the nearest ten)

from the
(b) The increase in the estimated population of the town
beginning of 2026 to the beginning of 2031
= 48 000(1.003)1o - 48 000 (1.003)' Population at the beginning of 2031 - Reminder

population at the beginning of 2026

= 735.263 36 Do not use the approximate
value 49 460 in (a)(ii) for
< 750
calculation in (b).
The increase in the estimated population of the town from the
exceed 750.
beginning of 2026 to the beginning of 2031 will not
The claim is disagreed.

6.21
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Quick Practice 6.8
be estimated
The value ($V) of a car years after the beginning of 2022 can
by V/ = 320 000 (0.86)'.
V= 32000 (0 .
86)" 32000
=

(a) (i) Find the estimated value of the car at the beginning of 2022.
V = 320 000 10 86)5 = 150537 Coroto the
.
-

>
(ii) Find the estimated value of the car at the beginning of 2027.

(Give your answers correct to the nearest $ if necessary.)

(b) The car owner claims that the decrease in the estimated value of
the car from the beginning of 2027 to the beginning of 2030 will
exceed $54 000. Do you agree? Explain your answer.
320000 (0 .

86)5 - 3200 (0 868 = .

54787 (near $1

V -
75ao
6.9 Problem relating to an exponential function
Example

After the injection of a certain medicine for t hours, the blood medicine
level (M units) of a person is estimated by M = A(1-k), where A and k

are positive constants and k # 1. It is given that the blood medicine levels
of the person 1 hour after injection and 3 hours after injection are 2 units
and 3.92
units respectively.
2= All -k)
(a) Find the values of A and k.
3 92 .
:
All-k27
(b) Find the percentage increase in the blood medicine level from 3 hours
to 5 hours after injection.
(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.)

Solution

(a) When t = 1, M = 2.

2= A(1-k) (1) Substitute t and M = 2 into M=

When t = 3, M = 3.92.

3.92 = A(1 -k) (2) Substitute t - 3 and M = 3.92 into M = A(1 - k^

3.92 A(1-k)
(2) - (1):
A(1 - k) Tips for Students

1- k' Using the factor theorem,

1.96 = we

1 - k know that - k is a factor of

1-k3. By long division, we
1.96 = 1 +k + k-
have
k-+ k - 0.96 =
1-H=Q-k)(+k+k
(k - 0.6) (k + 1.6) = 0
k = 0.6 or k =-1.6 (rejected)

By substituting k = 0.6 into (1), we have

2 = A(1 - 0.6)
A= 5

6.22
 6 Exponential Functions

uonep j-
(b) The required percentage increase
5(1 - 0.6) - 5(1 - 0.6*)
=
X 100%
5(1 - 0.6*)
= 17.6% (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

Quick Practice 6.9

In an experiment, the number of bacteria in a test tube is 800 originally. A certain
solution iS added to the test tube.
After t minutes, the number of bacteria (N)
drops and is estimated by N = N,R', where No and R are positive constants and
R # 1. After 2 minutes, the number of bacteria in the test tube is 450. sub B
.
=
Ey to O
+ 1
3
(E)
NoRe-ty)
45: No 3
+

N= 600
(a) Find the values of No and
No = 6
R.

(b) Find the percentage decrease in the number of bacteria from 6 minutes

-bo 43),
to minutes after adding the solution.
-
B Graphs of Exponential Functions

The Graphs of y = a^ where a > 1

Activity (6.1
Graphs of y = a* for a > land their features

The following figure shows the graph of the exponential function = 1.8*.

Softcopy of this figure is provided in the

companion website of this series for
students' use.

6.23
 Number and Algebra

uonep ‡UON
their graphs on the
1. Complete the tables for the exponential functions V = 2^ and y = 3*, and plot
coordinate plane in the previous page. (Give the values of y correct to decimal place if necessary.)

y= 20

0 .
25 0 .
51 24 816

0 .
1 0 .
3 I 3927
Consider the three graphs on the previous page and answer questions 2 and 3

2. Do the graphs cut the y-axis at the same point?↑

If yes, state the coordinates of that point. 10 17
,

3. (a) (i) Do the graphs cut the x-axis? X Yes

Do the graphs always lie above the x-axis? ~ Yes

(b) How does the value of y change with x?

(i) It (increases
- / decreases) as x increases.

(iil) It gets closer and closer to O as x decreases indefinitely.

In Activity 6.1, we considered the graphs of y 1.8*. - 24 and y = 3* (see © Concept Check
Figure (1)). In fact, the graph of y = a* (where a > 1) (see Figure (2)) has
-
Refer to the figure. Which of
similar features as these graphs. the following curves may
represent the graph of
y = 4* curve P or curve Q?

= 1.8*

Figure (1) Figure (2)

From Figure (2), we can see that the graph of y = a* (where a > 1) cuts the
y-axis at (0, 1), and it always lies above the x-axis.

6.24
 6 Exponential Functions

As x decreases, the graph of y = a* (where a > 1) gets closer and closer to

uoep n j-uoN
the negative x-axis, but never cuts the x-axis. As x increases, the graph
goes upwards from left to right. Besides, the rate of increase of y becomes
greater. These features can be observed from the graph of y = 2* below:

y increases
by 4

y increases The rate of increase of y becomes greater as

by x increases.

increases
by 1

increases x increases

from 0 to from 2 to 3
x increases
from 1 to 2

The Graphs of y = a* where 0 < a < 1

Now, let us find out how the graph of = a® where 0 < a < 1) looks.

The graph of y = a* (where 0 < a < 1) is different from that for a > 1.

As shown in the following figures, as xX increases, the graphs go downwards

from left to right. Besides, the rate of decrease of y becomes smaller.

6.25
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n
on the same coordinate Reminder
When plotting the graphs of y = 34 and y
If P(x, y) is reflected about
plane, we can see that P(1, 3) is a point on the graph of y = 3*. If we reflect the y-axis, then the

image P'(-1, 3) lies on the graph of y = coordinates of its image are

P(1, 3) about the y-axis, its
(-x, y).

0103139
P'(-1, 3) * - -3-7

-2-1012
9 31 03 0.1

In fact, the graph of can be obtained by reflecting the graph of

y = 3* about the y-axis, and vice versa.

In general, the graphs of y = a* and show reflectional symmetry © Concept Check

with each other about the y-axis. Refer to the figure. If the
curve C1 represents the graph
axis of symmetry of y = 0.2' write down the
function of the curve C2.

1)

Classwork

In each of the following, consider the graph of y = a* (where 0 < a < 1). Put a /' in the box if the
statement iS true; otherwise, put a X' in the box.

00
1. The graph cuts the y-axis at (0. 1).

2. The graph lies above the x-axis.

3. The graph goes downwards from left to right.

4. As increases, the graph gets closer and closer to the positive x-axis, but never

00
cuts the x-axis.

5. As x increases, the rate of decrease of y becomes greater.

6.26
 6 Exponential Functions

The figure shows the graphs of y = 2*, y = 4" and y = 10*

By symmetry, we can sketch the graphs

easily.
of y
G).y-(H) and y-
uonep j-uoN
0<a<1

The larger the value of a, The smaller the value of a,

the flatter is the graph of the flatter is the graph of
v=a.

The following table summarizes the features of the graphs of exponential

functions y = a for different ranges of a.

Range of a a >1 0<a<1

Graph of

Common The graph cuts the y-axis at (0, 1).

features 2. The graph never cuts the x-axis. It lies above the x-axis.

3. The graph has neither a maximum point, a minimum point nor an axis of symmetry.

Differences The value of y increases as x increases. The value of y decreases as x increases.

2. The value of y gets closer and closer to zero 2. The value of gets closer and closer to zero

as x decreases indefinitely. as x increases indefinitely.

3. As x increases, the rate of increase of y 3. As x increases, the rate of decrease of y

becomes greater. becomes smaller.

Note: The graphs of y = a* and show reflectional symmetry with each other about the y-axis.

6.27
 Number and Algebra

exponential
Solve problems using the graph of an

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Example 6.10) function
Reminder

The figure shows the graph of y = 5". The grid lines on the graph
paper determine the accuracy
of the best solution that can
= 5t be obtained. The scales of
the axes in this figure allow us

to read the values of x and

correct to the nearest 0.1 and

0.5 respectively.

(a) Using the graph, find the values of

/125, (ii)

(b) Solve 5* = 20 graphically.

Solution

15 -

F(a)(i)

(a)(ii)

(a) (i) /125 = /53 _ 52

From the graph, when x = 11.0.

/125 11.0

6.28
 6 Exponential Functions

From the graph,

1)0.4
0.5
when x =-0.4, = 0.5.
uonep j- N
(b) From the graph, when y = 20, x = 1.9.

The solution of 5* = 20 is x = 1.9.

Quick Practice 6.10

The figure shows the graph of y = 0.5*.

(a) Using the graph, find the values of T = 0.5*

(i) (/ 0.5)3, = 0 . 5 =
(ii) /2.
-
-

X= Y y= 0 2
, .

(b) Solve 0.5* = 6 graphically.

6 X= 26
y =
- .

...
-
I

Further Practice Smart Hints

1. The figure shows the graphs of exponential functions y = 2,y=a,y: 0.2* and y b*,

where a and are positive constants. All the graphs cut the y-axis at A.

0.24

(a) Write down the coordinates of A. (0 1)

,

(b) Determine whether

the value of is greater than, equal to or less than 2,

-

(ii) the value of b is greater than, equal to or less than 0.2.

-

6.29
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n (c) (i) If the graphs of y = 0.2* and y a show reflectional symmetry with each other about
the y-axis, find the value of a. 5
(ii) If the graphs of y = 2* and h* show reflectional symmetry with each other about
the y-axis, find the value of b.

2.
In a city, the number of people (H thousand) infected by a H
virus days after an outbreak can be estimated by H= @',
where 2 is a positive constant.
(a) (i) Using the graph of H = Q' find the value of H when
H= 0'
t = 2.
H = 2
(ii) Hence, find the value
of Q.
(Leave your answer
in surd form.)
2= @@ In =

Explain

(b) Will there be more than

10 thousand people infected by
the virus days after the outbreak? Explain your answer.

H (E)"
= = 25 =
11 3 Cors)
. < 10.

Ve

Exercise 6C

(For Q10 - 14, 23 - 26 in

Softcopies of these figures are
this exercise, students may need to work on the figures in answering the questions.
provided in the companion website of this series for
necessary.) students' use, if

Level

1. Let f(x) = 2(4•). Find the values of the following expressions.

(a) f(2) (b) f(-1) (d)

2. Let f(x) = 5* and g(x)= 0.9*. Find the

values of the following expressions, correct to 3 significant
figures.

(a) f(1.2) • g(0)

~Example 6.7

f(-2)
(c)
3g(2) (d) 2f(-3) - 3g(2)

3.
If f(cx) = a(0.5)* and f(-2) = 12. Find the value of a.

6.30
 6 Exponential Functions

4. It is given that f(x) 1.25(b•) and f(3) = 10. Find the values of

uonep j-uon
(a) b,

(b) f(5)-2f(4).

5. A fast food restaurant

manager finds that the number (x) of hamburgers
sold in a day is related to the
price ($P) of each hamburger by the formula
P= 150 (0.995*). If the manager wants to sell 500 hamburgers in a day,
what should
be the price of each hamburger?
(Give your answer correct to the
nearest $0.1.)

b. The number (N) of students absent from school on the xth day after the start of a flu outbreak in the
school could be estimated by the formula N = 50(1 - 0.7*), where x # 0. ~Example 6.8

(a) How many students were absent on the 3rd day?

(b) How many more students were absent on the 4th day as compared with the previous day?
(Give your answers correct to the nearest integer.)

7. The weight (W mg) of a radioactive substance after hours of decay is given by W = 200 (0.92)'.
MIURM
(a) Find the original weight of the radioactive substance.

(b) Find the weight of the radioactive substance after 10 hours of decay.

(Give your answers correct to the nearest mg if necessary.)

8. The rate Q tonnes/hour of oil leakage from an oil tanker hours after an accident occurred can be

estimated by Q= 80k', where k is a positive constant. It is known that the rate of oil leakage 2 hours after
the accident occurred Is 45 tonnes/hour.

(a) Find the value of k.

Explain
is less than 2.5 tonnes/hour 12 hours after the accident
(b) Someone claims that the rate of oil leakage
occurred. Do you agree? Explain your answer.

be modelled by P = 8500 (1.02)', where is the number of years since

9. The population (P) of a town can
the beginning of 2020.
town at the beginning of 2025.
(a) Find the population of the
increase in the population of the town from the beginning of 2025 to the
(b) Find the percentage

beginning of 2030.
(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures.)

6.31
 Number and Algebra

on the same graph paper.

the following graphs of exponential functions, sketch the required graph

uonep !-
In each of

(10 - 11)

10. graph of y =( 11. graph of

12. The figure shows the graph of y = 4*. It cuts the y-axis at
point P.

(a) Write down the coordinates of P.

(b) Sketch the graph of y= cf under each of the following

conditions.

(i) c >4

(ii) 1< c < 4

13. The figure shows the graph of y

-Gr ~Example 6.10

(a) Using the graph, find the values of

(ii) 0.25-18

(iii) 422.

(b) Solve
Is = 2 graphically.

6.32
 6 Exponential Functions

The figure shows the

N o n -f u d a t i
14. graph of - 2.5%.

(a) Using the graph, find the values of

2.5*
(i) 2.50.5,

(ii)

125
(iii)

(b) Solve 2.5* : 9 graphically.

Level 2

15. It is given that f(x)

-
(a) Find the values of the following expressions.

f(3)•g(3) = (ii)
f(0.5)
g (0.5)
(Leave your answers in surd form if necessary.)
I

(b) If kf(-1)+g(-1) = 2, find the value of k.

kintf =2 kg-5
6
k -
=

16. If f(x) = a (where a > 0) and f(5) 8f(2), find the value of a.
= ga w S =

air
640, find the values of k
> 0 and k # 0. If f(1) =-10 and f(4) =
17. It is given that f(x) = km*, where m
km
*
640 m = 64 mil
km to -
= =
and m.
k - =

It is given that f(x) = 5(8). 2

18.
5 .

89 20 ja
= - 2 aw5
(a) If f(a) = 20, find the value of a.

If f(k + 1) - f(k) = 70, find

the value of k.
5 (gk
+
) 5(84) To 18h-ghg 214
=
23h = 2
-

(b) 84 8-8k .

($A) she
an interest rate 7% p.a. compounded yearly. The amount
I
k 3 =

19. Jennifer deposits $P in a bank at

receives after years is given by:
A = P(1+ 7%)' . years respectively.
$10 400 and $10 816 if she deposits the money for 1 year and
Suppose Jennifer receives 10816 PCHrY)2
10400 PLIV)
=
=

and r.
(a) Find the values of P dollar.
correct to the nearest
she will receive in the 3rd year,
(b) Find the interest
at a constant rate of 15% per
2021. Its value depreciates
20. The is $11:000 in V= VA', where
valne of a notebook computer2021 is given by A and Vo are positive constants,
and

years after ~Example 6.9

year. Its value ($V)
of the notebook computer is $9350 in 2022.
A# 1. It is given
that the value
/100 A V = 1,000 10 85)
9350
.

=
and Vo.
Find the values of A
(a)
computer in 2026. (Give your
answer correct to
110010 85)5
the nearest dollar.)
the value of the notebook
.

to 2029 be more than

(b) Find notebook computer from 2026
decrease in the value of the
Explain

(c) Will the percentage

40%? Explain your answer.

6.33
 Number and Algebra

shop chain per day is

21. (N) of cakes sold by a cake

N o n -f u d a t i r
The total number

given by:

N = 500 (1.03)*,

where x (in thousand dollars) is the advertising expense per day.

(a) If 5.5 thousand dollars IS spent on advertising per day, how many
to the
cakes will be sold per day? (Give your answer correct
nearest integer.) N = 500 (1 03755 = 588
is $50. Is it wise to
Explain
.

If advertising expense is not included in the cost, the profit of selling each cake
spend 10 thousand dollars per day on advertising? Explain your answer.
672x50 33600> 10 0 0
= Yes
N =
St(1 03)" = 672
C2:y = a*, C;y = h* and Ca:y = c*,
.

22. The figure shows the graphs of

with
where a, b and c are constants. It is given that the graphs of Ci and C2 show reflectional symmetry

each other about the y-axis.

Cr: y = b C: y = a

Ch: y = c

(a) Find the value of a. ass

I
(b) Find the range of values of b.
b2z
(c) Write down two possible values of c.
2 ,
2 5
.

23. The figure shows the graph of y - (G

(a) Using the graph, find the values of

(i) Est 6 (ii) 343

=
(b) Solve the following equations graphically. -

(i) -36 = 0 (ifi) = 0.1

=0 . .
! :
= 10

6.34
 6 Exponential Functions

24. In laboratory, some bacteria were

N o n -f u d a t i
put into a beaker for
cultivation. The number (N) of bacteria in the beaker
after hours can
be estimated by: 2000 -
N = 2000 = 1800(0.65)'

N = 2000 - 1800 (0.65)'

1500

The graph of
N = 2000 - 1800 (0.65) is shown on the
right.

(a) Answer the following questions using the given

graph.
↑

(i) How many bacteria were

put into the beaker
initially? sp
(ii) Find the time required for the number of
bacteria to become 1600.
Explain 35.

(b) Peter claims that the number of bacteria in the

beaker will eventually exceed 2000. Do you agree?
Explain your answer. Ma
25. The value ($V) of a mobile phone after t months
is given by V = a (0.95)', where a is a constant.
4000
(a) (i) Using the graph of V = a (0.95)', find the values
a(0.95)
of W when t = 0 and t = 5.
3000-
(ii) Hence, find the value of a.

(b) Find the value of the mobile phone after 1 year,

correct to 3 significant figures.
1000

of money into a savings fund at

the
26. Peggy invests a sum

beginning of 2021. The value (V thousand dollars) of the

savings fund n years since the beginning of 2021 is given
by V= Pr", where P and r are constants.
of the
= P,", find the value
(a) Using the graph of V

savings fund at the beginning of

V= 10 (105th
2021, 10 therend
(ii) 2022. 10 5 thousand 10=p es
V= l
.

P and r.
(b) Hence, find the values of 10 5 = Pr .

of the
in the value
(c) Find the percentage change to the
fund from the beginning of 2021
savings
3 significant figures.
beginning of 2031, correct to

= 629

6.35
 Logarithmic Functions
Non-Foundation

Common Logarithms. p. 7.3

NF 7.1

NF 7.2 Applications of Common Logarithmis.O............e.e.e......................7.7

Logarithms to an Arbitrary Base and their Applications............................ 7.23

NF 7.3
and their Features..................................7.39
NF 7.4 Graphs of Logarithmic Functions
NF 7.5 Historical Development of the Concept of LogarithMs.O...................... 7.50

HKDSE
MATHEMATICS in Action
Compulsory Part THIRD EDITION Book 4B
 Logarithmic Functions

7.1 Common Logarithms

uonep - N
Definition of Common Logarithms
Consider an exponential equation x = 10'.

When x is expressed as the base 10, the index y is called the logarithm of x
to the base 10, or simply called the common logarithm of x.

Symbolically, we denote the common logarithm of x by logio*, or simply

logx.

If x = 10%. then y = log x.

For example,

(a) 1000 = 103 (b) 0.01 = 1072 (c) 2 ~ 10°.301

log 1000 = 3 10g 0.01 =-2 log 2 ~ 0.301

In fact, x = 10 is equivalent to y= logx.

10"

So the following is also true:

If y = log x, then x = 10%.

Note: Consider x = 10v Since 10 > 0 for all values of y (i.e. x >
0), log x
is undefined for x ≤ 0.
740 000.0
e.g. log0 and log(-5) are undefined.

The following table shows some expressions in the exponential form and
the corresponding logarithmic form:

Exponential form (x = 10") Logarithmic form (log x = y)

100 = 10- log 100 = 2

10 = 10 log 10 =

= 10°
log 1 = 0
0.1 = 107
log 0.1 = -1

From the above table, we notice that:

log 10 = and log 1 = 0

common logarithm RAV

7.3
 Number and Algebra

Classwork

Complete the following table.

Exponential form (r = 10') Logarithmic form (log r=y)
(a) 1 000 000 = 106
log1000000
=
6
(b) 10000 = 104 log 10 000 =4
(c) 0 . 012 10t log0.01 ==2
(d) a = 100.5
loga 5
= 0 .

(e) 30 = /b log 30

Example Z. 1 Find the values of common logarithms of numbers

Find the values of the following common logarithms without using a
calculator.

(a) log100 (b) log 0.000 01 (c) log|

000|

Solution

(a) *: 100 = 10?

log 100 =2 4If x= 10, then logx=y.

(b) 0.000 01 = 10–5 « Rough Work

aui
log0.000 01 = 0,00001= 10-5

IVI0v LIIc
a -Ldia▇
= 10-3 point 5 places to the
1000 10 right. 2ner n1kbler
uaetr
sso)-
Quick Practice 7.1
Find the values of the following common logarithms without using a
calculator.

(a) log 100 000 og0.0001 2g| 000|

100000 = 150 0001 =

104 .

: To4= 10
log 10000 = 5 0002 4 (90
-

log(0) 4
-

7.4
 7 Logarithmic Functions

N o n -f u d a t i o n
A calculator can be used to find the values of common logarithms of esthegol
positive numbers. For example:

Result
Expression Keying sequence

EXE 1.732 393...

log 54 log 54

EXE 1.089 905...

log 12.3 l0g 12.3

-0.602 059...
log =

log 5 - 1 EXE -0.301 029...

log 5 =- 1

Classwork
to 3 significant
Find the values of the following common logarithms. (Give your answers correct
figures.)
2 52
1 08 (b) log 334 ~ (c) log0.18 ~
.

(a) log 12 ~ ,

(e) log 215 4 52.

(f) log/ 3 ~ 0 .
239

Find the values of unknowns by the definition of

Example(7.2) common logarithms

Find the values of the following unknowns correct to 3 significant figures.

10' = 3 (b) log x = 2.3

(a)

Solution
Evaluate log : by keying in:
(a) 10'= :
log EXE
10', then logx: - y.
y= log3
which gives 0.47712...
0.477 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

(b) log x = 2.3 Evaluate 10-3 by keying in:

1Iflogx = y, then x = 102,
X= 102.3 2.3 EXE

= 200 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.) which gives 199.526...

Quick Practice 7.2

Find the values of the following unknowns correct to 3 significant figures.

(a) 10' = 18 (b) log x = 1.2

2

log18 10
.

x
y = =

1 26 x = 15 .
8
Y
= .

7.5
Number and Algebra

B Properties of Common Logarithms

Activity 7.1
Properties of common logarithms
Find the values of the following common logarithms. 4
log 10 = I log 100 = 2 log 1000 = 3 log 10 0U0 =

2.(a) Find the values of the following expressions

2
(i)log 10+ log 10 = 2 log (10+ 10) = log I00 *
(ii) log 10+ log 100 = 3 log(10 *100) = log . las
3
(ii) log 100 + log 100 # 4 Wg 1000 4
log(100 + 1U0) -
(b) From the results of (a), try to express log(MN) in terms of log M and log N.
log (MN) := logM + logN
3. (a) Find the values of the following common logarithms.9)
I
(i)log 100 – log 10 = 2 – 1 = I log| = log 10 =,

(ii) log 10 000 – log 100 = 4-2 2 (10 000

log| 100 = log - lo 2
ehaa

(iii) log 10 000 – log 10 =—4 1 3 (10 000)

: l0g lat 3
10
-

10

(6) From the resuits of (a), try to expres loe in terms of log M and log N.
log| =. logM-lgN
4. (a) Find the values of the following expressions.
()log 10’ = log 100 = 2 2log 10 = 2 x I 2

(i) log 10’ = log. lo 3 3log I0 - .

3 asta
5
(ii) log 10 Lughro Slog 10 = 5
(b) From the results of (a), we have log M" = whogM

y
logM X logN
= =

M WY Naloy
In fact, we have the followwing properues. = ,
These properties can
MN =
lox Ty be derived from the
For any M, N>0, enlaws of indices.
=x
+y
log(MN) = log M + log N loga
2. IO | = log M= logN
3. log M" =nlog M, where n is a real number

7.6
 Logarithmic Functions

Proof
a5
Eieeon a
For M>( and N>0,
L9a
det log M =xand log N = y. aa
Then, M = 10 and N = 10. Convert to exponenUa

MN = 10” 10 Dealn) oplrpi

Law of indices; a" Xa";= a"t c
MN = 10r+y
log (MN) =x+y ADefinition of common logarithr
= log M + log N
H
10
10'

= 10" 1Law of indices: " d" = "=▇

y
-x Detinition of common logarithms (

= log hM – log N

3. M" = (10 )"

M" = 10"x Law of indices: (a")" =(

log M" = x Definition of common logarithm

=n log M
la e aier
Classwork

hetermine whether each of the following is correct. (Circle your answers.)R teth
(b) log (6 X 8) = log6 x log 8 (V|| X)
(a) log(2 +5) = log2 +- log5 (| X)

(e) log(5 4)= log5+ log4 (IX)te(d) log 3+ log8 = log(3 x8) (V| X)

log 10
() log7=1og3 = boe (VIX) (f) = log5 (V|X)
l0g
(h) (log 3) =Ilog 32in
(g) log 5 = 6log 55 (V|X) |

()(log 3) x2 = log6 (JIX) ()log(3+4) = log ? (V IX)

Find the values of expressions by the properties of

Example 7.3) common logarithms.

Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator.

log 5
(a) log 125 + log 8 (b) 3 log 2 – log 80 (c)
log 12

7.7
 Number and Algebra

Solution
a) log 125 + log 8 = log (125 x8) log N = log(MI)

= log 1000
= log 10’
3

(b)3log2 – log 80 = log 2 – log 80 nlog M = 10g i

= log 8 – log 80
= log| log M – log N = 10s/
= 1og|
l
= logg107
=
Tips for Students
log 5 log s
(c) Express 5 and 125 as
log 125 log s3 powers of 5.
- log5

3 log5 log M"=i 10g m

i
6

Quick Practice 73
Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator.
10g9
(a) log4 + log 25 (b) log 90 –2log 3 (c)
log 27

Example 7.4)
Simplify an expresSion invOIVing common
logarithms

Simpl1ly-—
1ogx -21og, where x>0 and x#1.
logVS
Solution

logx –2 logx4logx 2 1ogX 10g M= 7 I0g M

Tips for
log
g
Simplify logx– 21og.x first.
2 logx

logX
2"
=
4

7.8
 L0garInmlC FunC
1 Ctions

Alternative Solution l
or AotEu
log.x–2 1ogxlogr– logx (Anlog M = log M" ipitanneihe iE
logY log x
log| og M –log N= loe

log X
boteaei
p
logr
einenliw uniela ainii
1
log(x2
iolss
2logx ae

logx pgaab
ba)uandebabnd et
Quick Practice 74 p
Simplify the following expressions, where x>0) and x 1.
logx – log.x logxX2
(b)
log.x log Yx+ logx 3 t

Express the common logarithms of numbers in terms

Example 7.5) of given unknowns

Given that log3 =X and log5 =y, express the following in terms of x
and/or y.
(a) log 15 (b) log90 () l
Solution Tips for Students
(a) log 15 = log(3 x5) a rir l uo (i) Express 15 and 90 as
= log3+ log5 I0g(MIV) *= 10g M 10g IV products of 3, 5 and/or 10.
x+y
Ka l d (ii) Make use of log 10 = l’.

(b) log90 = log(3?x 10)

= log 3+ log 10 tnuHh
= 21og 3+ log 10 Klog M" = log Mp
= 2x+ 1 log 10 =1d e
(2) lo = log M-log N
(c) log = log2 – log3
= log| 5 log3
= log 10 – log5 – log3

7.9
 Number and Algebra

Quick Practice 7.5

N o n -f u d a t i o n Given that log 2 = a and log 3 = b.

(a) log 18 (b)

express the following in terms of a and/or b.

log 40 (c) log

Further Practice
Smart Hints

1. Find the values of the calculator.

following expressions without using :
(a) log 5 + log8+ log25= log(25x8x5)
=
logli
(b) log 6- l0g 15 - log4
= log()
=
3
= log (t)
(©) ; log 81 + log ! - 1og:3000 =
log + loghlog3 -

logger
-
=

=> logf -

logb-logz
light) 3
lg
=
-

= =

2. Simplify the following expressions, where x > 0 and x # 1.

Plogy-Llogx+2loglo 2logX
lig
-

(10' = 2 3log x - log x

(a) 4logx-logx?+2log (b)
log x- 5
=
I

3. Simplify the following expressions, where x 0, y > 0 and x, y # 1.

4log(7xy) lightlogby-logp3-Log By)

(a)
log(xy-)
22 (b) =

= 0.

Exercise 7A

Level

Find the values of the following common logarithms without using a calculator. (1 - 2) (~Example 7.1]
(b) log 100 000 000
1. (a) log 1 000 000
(b) log
2. (a) log 0.001 100 000

Find the values of the following common logarithms. (Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures.) (3 - 5)

(b) log 456

3. (a) log 3

(b) log 0.196

4. (a) log 1.71

5. (a) log
(b) log 4
6. In each of the following, find the value of y correct to 3 significant figures. (-Example 7.2(a))
(a) 10' = 120 (b) 10/ = 2.5 (c)

7.10
 Logarithmic Functions

7. In each of the following, find the value ofxcorrect to 3 significant figures. Eample 126
1 (b) logx= 2.46 (c) logx=–1.35
(a) logxa

th
Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator. (8 – 13)a
8.log 20 + log 50 "Evample 7.3a) 9. log 300 – log 3 Eample 13 ye
log|2)- log 350 11. 21og 5+ log 40
log 25 .
log 4 -Example 73(c) 13.
1L.

log 32 log 125

Simplify the following expressions, where x>0 and x#1. (14 – 19)
14. log(5)+ loe 15.log(10x) – l g p fE

log x thns latua5

log x
16. 17.
log.x no surz
logr
adeNie nu

2logx
2 1o 0g

log.x+ logxbueprdntta
19.
18.
ogx– logx
u hetagpeaaduot
apKadn t a a dintaich
20. Given that log2 = a, express the following in terms of a.
(a) log4 (b)log 20 ( ) loeg u5at
(d) le
21. Given that log2 =Xand log3 =y, express the following ins terms t
of ixand y. -Example 75Sa
oss5 t
(a) log 12 (6) lo otinint og(c) logVi8 altu
annbtge

Leevel 2
ast pnoeiu e s notue

22.Find the values of the following common logarithms without using a calculator.
ni
(a)log 1000 (b) log,1 (c)logV0.01

Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator. (23 – 26)

23.log 25 – log 15+ log 60 24. 21og4 + 3 log5 – log2

u
log 18 – log2 log 2 – log 2
. 26.
log 27
log|

Simplify the following expressions, where x>0 and x 1. (27 - 30)

27.log(2") 5 logx+ log(5x ) t 2bg( ) 4e

loe -logx
29. logx– log x
logr+logy
30.
log VX
7..=
 Number and Algebra

> O. y > 0 and x, y # 1. (31 - 33)

Simplify the following expressions, where x

uonep j-uom
log(x'yh) - log(xyf) 2logx'-3logxt
logx - logy 32. 33.
31.
log x * - log y log(xy ) - 2 log(xv)

34. Given that log 3 = X and log 5 = y, express the following in terms of x and y. (-Example 7.5(b). (g)
(a) log 4.5 (b) log 108 (c) log /180

35. Given that log 4 = m and log = n, express the following in terms of m and n.
*
(a) log 98 = log(7" < 4 ) (b) log 56 (c) log 140 log(ixlox2)
=
Ligh + log4 = Inthe

(d) log (e) log 35 (f) l0g/112 ItWg12

=
Elog(#x7)
36. Given that log 9 = X, express log 30 in terms of x. logbo loghologi
= =
Itlugh
Explain
lgl = X =+ Elog9
37. It is given that b > 0 and b # 1. =
It

Explain
Amy claims that
log 4

log b
can
·
always be simplified to Do you agree? Explain your answer.

38. Consider the expression log a + log b. It is known that both a and b
are not rational powers
of 10. Joseph
claims that loga + log b must be an irrational number. Do you agree? Explain your answer.
X ab
carea
C Logarithmic Equations
An equation involving logarithms with unknown(s) is called a logarithmic
equation. It can be solved by using the definition and properties of de.g.logx 3, log (x + 2) = - 1 and
log (2x - 1) = log 5 are
logarithms.
logarithmic equations.

Note: Since log x is undefined for x ≤ 0, we have to check whether a

solution is valid or not after solving the equation.

Example (7.6) Solve logarithmic equations

Solve the following logarithmic equations.

(a) log(3x + 1) = 2 (b) logx-log(x=3) ==1

Solution

(a) log (3x + 1) = 2 Reminder

3x+ 1 = 104 4 If logy = 2, then y 102.
log(3x + 1) # log3x + log 1
3x + 1 = 100

3x = 99

33 Checking:
L.H.S. = log[3 (33) + 1] = log 100 = 2 = R.H.S.

logarithmic equation #1#19

7.12
 Logarithmic Functions

uonep -
(b) logx-log(x-3)==1

log -
= 10-1
10-1 •If logy then

x-3 10
10x = x - 3 Tips for Students
Check whether the solution
valid or not.

(rejected) 1 For x =-} logx = log and

10
logx-log(x- 3) =-1has no solutions. log(x - 3) = log are undefined.

Quick Practice 7.6

Solve the following logarithmic equations.

(a) log(3x - 8) = 1 (b) log(x = 5) - logx =

To solve an equation with both sides involving common logarithms, we

can use the following property:
log log )
If logx = logy, then x = y.

Note: For positive real numbers x and y, if x = y, then log x = logy.

Example (7.7 Solve an logarithmic equation

Solve the logarithmic equation log(x - 2) + log 3 log(2x + 5).

Solution

log(x- 2) + log 3 = log (2x + 5)

log[3(x - 2)] = log(2x + 5)
3(x-2) = 2x+5 1 If log x = logy, then x

3x - 6 =2x+5

x=11 1 Check whether the answer obtained satisfies the

original equation.

Quick Practice 7.7

Solve the logarithmic equation log (2x - 3) log(x + 3) - log2.

7.13
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n Ken
Maths Dialogue
solves the logarithmic equation log(x -
log(x - 2) + log? log(2x + 5)
- log 3 = log (2x + 5) in
Example 7.7 as follows:

leg(x-2)+leg3 = leg(2x +5)

x-2+3=2x+5
x+1=2x+5

==4

Why is my result different from the one in the Example 7.7?

It is wrong to cancel the 'log'.

But in the Solution, we have cancelled the log'!

log[3(x- 2)] - log(2x - 5)
3(x-2) =2x+5 Miss Chan

Ken
We are not cancelling the 'log'. The deduction is
based on the property of logarithmic functions.

Can you explain why it is wrong for Ken to cancel the 'log'?

Consider exponential equations in the form a= b, where b cannot be nousutnpnnnh

expressed as a rational power of a. To solve these equations, we can take

common logarithms on both sides to convert the equations into logarithmic
equations.

Solve exponential equations by converting them into

Example (7.8 logarithmic equations

Solve the following exponential equations and give your answers correct

to 3 significant figures.

2*71 = (b) 3* = 4*+

(a)

7.14
 Ugdi ILIImIIC FuncCIons

Tips for Students

Solution
Since 5 cannot be expressed
(a) 2X-1=5 as a rational power of 2, we
log2 =1= log 5 Take common logarithms on both sides have to use logarithm
solve the equatior
(r– 1)log2 = log 5 log M" = log M, add bracket f
log5 Reminder pota cn
–1 =
1og 2
* #
log 5 log2*
log 5
+I by keying in:
log2
2
log2 p
3.32 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.) (l 9)s fo9 +
EXE
EA)tot
3 = 4X+1 which gives 3.3219...
log 3" = log4 +l
xlog 3 = (x+1)log4 E lpi log4
xlog 3 = xlog4+ log4 Expand (x+1)log4. VaIual by keying in:
log 3 – log 4
x(log3 – log4) = log4 Transpose the terms with x to L.H.S.
To9 Oa(o9) 3U
log 4
:= -— U ee
log3 – log4 0
which gives 4.818
==4.82 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)
I- lanateaneibtn yusoleodl ot
uaiEiluta hons a n
Quick Practice 7.8
(rot
Solve the following exponential equations and give your answers correct to
3 significant figur
N
(a)3 +1=2 (b) 4 = ”

Further Practice Smart Hin

Solve the following equations and give your answers correct to 3 significant figures if necessary. (1 – 2)
1. (a) log(x+ 1) ==3 & + = 0 001 .

eiude
-1
logy
=

log(2x-4)
-

(b) log (2x 4)= logr–1

log +
(c)log(x+ 2) + log4 = log(x– 1) = 0 d
0
log (4x +8) log( 1) =
-
-

2. (a)4X-1= 33ibed log(s , a =0

*4 =
(c)4 = 3(5')

log4" Wg3(5")
=

b) log" =
wg4
Xlog4 =
log3log5
xlog = logy
.
(log4-log5) log)
=

=
*

rys
x
5
X = 7.15

X =
-
2 7/
.
 Number and Algebra

Exercise 7B

Level 1

Solve the following logarithmic equations. (1 – 6) GEvample 7

1.log (2x) = I
2.
3. 10g( x— 1) = 0)
log(x+1) = 1
4. log (3r+4) = 2
5.
6. log(4x+ 3) ==1
1Ug( X — ) = I i

Solve the following logarithmic equations. (7 – 12)

7.log (x+3) = log 15 9. log(Sr 2) = 3 log2
8. log( 3) = log(3 – 2x)
log9
10.log(x – 1) – 21og5 = 0) 1.
log(2x+ 1) –21og3 = 0 2
– log(7 – 2x) = 0)

In each of the following, express y in terms of x. (13 – 15)

13.log ( ) = log(3x) 14. log(x+y) = 1 1 . log|—

Solve the following exponential equations. (16 – 21)

(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures.) a
16. 2* = 9 17. 3r+1=8 -Example 7.8a))18. = 12 faSn

19. 4(6") = 5 20. 4(52) = 5.5 21. 3 4=7

Level 2

Solve the following logarithmic equations. (22 – 25) (-Example 77

22. log(7x 2) – log2 = log6
loglogh 23. log(x+ 3) = log(x 3) + log4
Txz =12 X =2

24. log(2x – 1) – log (x – 2) = 3 log2 25. log(5 – ) – log(4x+1) = log4– log 5

loglugt .G
Solve the following logarithmic equations. (26 – 29) -Erample e7.6b)
7
26. log (3x+1) + log4 = 2 27. log(2x-3) – log2 =-1
log 1 29.log(2x) = log(4x–5) –1 log
= =+
28.log (x+ 1) = logx+1 2x = 0 .
4x -
0 .5

= 10
= 0 1 1 6x = -0 5.
.
.

In each of the following, express y in terms of x. (30 – 32) x =0 31

.

inflected
:

30. logx+ logy = log| 31. 3logx logy = 1 32 2log(xy) =1+log

logy log y x logy =
logit 2gX + 2logy It log X logy
= = -

=
Y=
Solve the following exponential equations. (33 – 38) logy +
blogy =
1

(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures.)

lugy t
33. 3 = 8r–2 -Example 7.8(6 34. 52 1= 23+1 35. 4 = (0)

36. 53+2 = 2(7) 37.4x+2 4”= 7e 44

38.3*+l+ 2(3 -) = 8
44 16 7

7.16
. - =

*
4 (15) =
)
10g4* (15) = log
* log 4 log15
+ = log]

= X = -
0 .
55
 7 Logarithmic Functions

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Solve the following simultaneous equations. (39 - 40) a
=lucy
ogy
log(log-js =2 40. logy log (2x) - 1
39. [log(x - 5y) = 2 lugsing =2

1 logtelogli
log x - logy: sales logx=2log/y+1
los =

y=
w

Eg = 10
vologer x = y +1
x = 10y

7.2 Applications of Common Logarithms

Concept
Video

A Sound Intensity Level

Sound intensity is used to describe sound level. The values of sound
intensities in daily life vary greatly from 10-12 W/m2 to 100 W/m-. This The unit of sound intensity is watts
per square metre (W/m-).
large range makes it inconvenient for general use. So, a logarithmic scale
called sound intensity level was developed.

The sound intensity level B of a sound is measured in decibels (dB). It is

defined as:

I
B = 10log
where I is the sound intensity (in W/m*) measured and To is the lowest
sound intensity that can be heard by humans, which is found to be
10-12 W/m- by scientists. leaut bouhe

According to this definition, for a sound with sound intensity 10112 W/m',
4B = 101og = 101og1 = 0
its sound intensity level is 0 dB.

The following table shows the sound intensity levels (in dB) of some
sounds.

Library (30 dB) Vacuum cleaner (70 dB) Busy street (90 dB)

Night club (100 dB) Construction site (110 dB) Aeroplane (130 dB)

sound intensity 22.1 decibel 9A

sound intensity level #2 24 AR
7.17
 Number and Algebra

the
corresponding sound intensity level, given

JOLEPUN I
Find the
Example (7.9) sound intensity

W/m', Maths file

Given that the sound intensity produced by jackhammer is 107
find its sound intensity level. Noise and hearing
What duration of continued
Solution exposure to noise will

The corresponding sound intensity level

lommod to ancl damage hearing?
negligible
10 < 75 dB
damage
10 log Substitute / = 1073 into the formula B = 10 log -
10-12 10 88 dB hours

94 dB hour
= 10log 10' dB
00 dB 15 minutes
= 10 x 9 dB
112 dB minute
= 90 dB
W 00L
Note:

When listening to music on

Quick Practice 7.9 a pair of earphones, if

bystanders can hear the
Given that the sound intensity of a light rainfall is 10-8 W/m?, find its sound sound clearly, then the
intensity level. sound intensity level may
have already reached 90 dB.

Find the corresponding sound intensity, given the

Example 7.10 sound intensity level
Reminder
sound intensity level of a diesel engine is 75 dB, find
Given that the its

sound intensity. (Give your answer in scientific notation and correct to 3 A positive number x is in
scientific notation if it is
significant figures.) ax 10", where
written as x

≤ a< 10 and n is an
Solution
integer.

Let / W/m' be the required sound intensity.

75 = 10l0g 4 Substitute B = 75 into the formula B 10log

7.5 = log 10-12

-
1074

107.5
10-12
Think Further
= 107.5 x 10712
How many times will the
= 10-4.5
sound intensity increase for
= 3.16 X 107 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.) an increase in sound intensity
level of 10 dB?
The sound intensity of the diesel engine is 3.16 x 10™ W/m2.

Quick Practice 7.10

If the sound intensity level of a conversation is 54 dB, what is its sound intensity?
(Give your answer in scientific notation and correct to
3 significant figures.)

jackhammer

7.18
 7 Logarithmic Functions

uonep i- N
B Richter Scale
the Earth's crust,
An earthquake is caused by a sudden release of energy in
which may lead to serious disasters. The magnitude of an earthquake is
measured by the Richter scale, a logarithmic scale which was developed
1985)
by the American scientist Charles Francis Richter (™4#, 1900
in 1935.

The magnitude (M) of an earthquake measured on the Richter scale is

defined as

M = -logE+ K,

where E is the energy in joules (J) released in the earthquake, and Kis
constant.

Here are some typical effects of earthquakes of different magnitudes.

Magnitude on the Richter scale Effects

Generally not felt, can only be detected by

special instruments

2- 3 Slight shaking sensation

4- 5 Slight building damage

6- 7 Building structures damaged

Buildings and roads collapse, serious

8 or above
casualties occur

Example (7.11) Compare energies released in two earthquakes

The magnitudes of the Maduo Earthquake (2021) and the Pacific coast of
Tohoku Earthquake (2011) were measured 7.3 and 9.0 respectively on the
Richter scale. How many times was the energy released in the Pacific coast

of Tohoku Earthquake of the energy released in the Maduo Earthquake?

(Give your answer correct to 3 significant figures.)

Solution

Let E and E, be the energy released (in J) in the Maduo Earthquake and Think Further
the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake respectively.
How many times will the
energy released increase for
7.3 = -logE,+ K ... . . . (1) each unit increase in

magnitude on the Richter

scale? (Give your answer
and 9.0 ElogE, +K (2)
correct to the nearest

integer.)

Richter scale E1A crust ttR casualty t

Maduo Earthquake #53*4b Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake IEXF#XIDA
7.19
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n og E, -Glog E, ==1og 7

log 2.55
E,
E2
102.55

- 355 (cor. to sig. fig.)

The energy released
in
the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake was Maths file
355 times that in the Maduo Earthquake. The biggest earthquake
ever recorded

Quick Practice 7.11 The Great Chilean

Earthquake which occurred

The magnitudes of the
Great Chilean Earthquake (1960) and the Ridgecrest on May 22, 1960 was the

Earthquake (2019) were measured 9.5 and 7.1 respectively on the Richter biggest earthquake ever
scale. How recorded. Its magnitude was
many times was the energy released in the Great Chilean
measured 9.5 on the Richter
Earthquake of the energy released
in the Ridgecrest Earthquake? (Give your scale.

answer correct to 3 significant figures.)

C Other Applications of Common Logarithm

Many daily life problems can be solved with the help of logarithms.
Let us see the following examples.

Example 7.12 Problem involving common logarithms

A sum of money ($P) is deposited in a bank at an interest rate of 4% p.a.

compounded yearly. Find the minimum number of years for the amount to
exceed twice the principal.
301

Solution

Suppose the amount exceeds twice the principal after n years. Reminder

P(1 + 4%)" > 2P If SP is deposited at a

compound interest rate of
P(1.04)" > 2P
r% per period, then the
1.04" > 2 amount obtained after n

log 1.04" > log 2 periods is $P x (1 + r%)".

nlog 1.04 > log 2

log 2
Since log 1.04 > 0, the inequality sign
If a > b >0,
-

log 1.04 remains unchanged.

-
n > 17.67. then log a > log b.

It takes at least 18 years for the amount to exceed twice the principal.

Great Chilean Earthquake FALA

Ridgecrest Earthquake D*1T#AB0
7.20
 Logarithmic Functions

uo!ep n j-uoN
Quick Practice 7.12
value of a mobile phone ($V) depreciates at a constant rate of 5%
per
The
W become less than
month. At least how many months will it take for its value to
-

half of its original value?

To Learn More

To facilitate the comparison between extremely large numbers, we can simply consider their
logarithmic values and use the following fact:

'Ifloga > log b > logc, then a > b > c > 0.'

For example,
arrange the three numbers a = 20222024, b 20232025 and c = 20242022 in descending order.

a= 20222024 20232023 c = 20242022

log a = log 20224021 log b = log 20234023 logc = log 20242022

= 2024log 2022 = 2023 log 2023 = 2022log 2024

= 6690.90 (cor. to 2 d.p.) = 6688.03 (cor. to .d.p.) = 6685.16 (cor. to 2 d.p.)

loga > log b > logc

a> b > c

Question
a b C
Arrange the numbers 111333 222222 and 333111 in ascending order.
333"
loga-logIII" logb=
log22 loga Log =

=
333wgI =
222log222 =(Illog333
= 681 07 520 9) = 279 99
Exercise 7C =
.
.
.

a >b >

You may refer to the following formulas to answer the questions in this exercise.

(a) The sound intensity level B (in dB) of a sound is defined as:

B= 10 log ; where Iis the sound intensity (in W/m') measured, and I = 10-12 W/m?.

(b) The magnitude (M) of an earthquake on the Richter scale is given by:

M=5logE+K,
where E is the energy (in J) released in the earthquake, and Kis constant.

(Unless otherwise specified, give your answers in scientific notation and correct to significant figures if necessary.)

Level

1. The sound intensity at a construction site is 6.3 X 10- W/m-. Find the corresponding sound intensity
level. ~Example 7.9]

Example 7.10
2. The sound intensity level of a fan is 52 dB. Find the corresponding sound intensity.
7.21
 Number and Algebra

10-5 W/m-
The sound intensities of two successive thunders in a storm were 0.1 W/m' and respectively

uonep j-uoN
3.

What is the difference between their corresponding sound intensity levels?

4. The sound intensity of a playground in an afternoon is 3.2 X 107
W/m-.

(a) Find the sound intensity level of the playground in that afternoon.
(b) If the sound intensity level of the playground is reduced by 30% at night, find the sound intensity at
that time.

the formula M
logE + K.
an earthquake was 1010 J. By substituting K =-3.2 into
5. The energy released in

find the magnitude of the earthquake on the Richter scale.

6. The magnitude of an
earthquake was measured 9.0 on the Richter scale. By substituting K =-3.2 into the
formula M =
log E+ K, find the energy (in J) released in the earthquake.

7. The energy released in the

earthquakes in city 4 and city B are 6.78 x 10' and 2.43 X 10" J respectively.
Find the difference in magnitudes of the two earthquakes on the Richter scale.

magnitudes of the earthquakes which occurred in town P and town O were measured 2.8
8. The and 2.3

respectively on the Richter scale. Find the ratio of the energy released in the earthquake in
town P to

that in town ~Example 7.11

~Example 7.12
9. The value of a television ($V) t months after it was bought is given by V = 15 000 (0.97)'.
(a) Find the original value of the television.

(b) At least how many months will it take for its value to become less than half of its original value?

10. The value ($V) of atablet computer I months after it was bought is given by V = 8000(0.92).
(a) Find the original value of the tablet computer.
Sus
(b) Find the value of the tablet computer 1 year after it was bought. = Sur(of)
become less than one-third of its
many months will it take for the value of the tablet
to
(c) At least how

original value? Zoloft > s ok >5,

tlogofz)lg5
t 13 .
17
...

P = 20 000 (1.05)'. 14
11. In the ith year after 2020, the population (P) of a town is given by
2025?
(a) What is the population of the town
in

In which year will the population of the town first exceed 60 000?
(b)

Level 2

12. A Hi-Fi is playing music at a sound intensity level of 90 dB. When the

neighbours complain, the sound intensity of the Hi-Fi reduced

is to

level of the Hi-Fi

60% of its original value. Find the sound intensity
after the sound intensity is reduced. 54 =
/olog [For)

restaurant B is 5 dB higher than that in restaurant A. How many times of the

13. The sound intensity level in
is the sound intensity in restaurant B?
sound intensity in restaurant A

7.22
 7 Logarithmic Functions

Explain 9
51 = logE , O 0-0
.1 = ElugEzt8
: with a magnitude of 5.1
14. The Hiroshima atomic bomb released the same amount of energy as an earthquake
measured 9.1 on the
on the Richter scale. The magnitude of the Indian Ocean Earthquake (2004) was

Richter scale. An expert claims that the energy released in the Indian Ocean Earthquake corresponded to
000 000 Hiroshima atomic bombs. Do you agree? ~
Explain your answer.

15. The energy released in an aftershock is of that in an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter

answer correct to decimal

scale. Find the magnitude of the aftershock on the Richter scale. (Give your
place.) .= logE +00-8:7 2-M= Lugg
7 .

M=WgE, + Ke M = 7 2 Blogg .
-

M= 6 6 .

16. The elephant population of a country is 2500 now. The population is

estimated to be decreasing at a constant rate of 3.5% per year. At least
how many years will it take for the population to decrease to less
than 1000?
250(1-3 5 %)" > 100 n6g0 9652180 4
. .
.

0. 965m - n >
5
n < 25 1
T
· ...

17. Jenny deposits $20 000 in a bank at 4% p.a. compounded half-yearly. Find the minimum number of years

required for her to receive an amount exceeding $30 000. (Give your answer correct to the nearest 0.5.)

18. The number of bacteria in a test tube grows at a constant rate of 18% per minute. At least how many
minutes will it take for the number of bacteria in the test tube to become more than triple of its original
number?

19. The value of a car depreciates at a constant rate of 18% per year. After
how many years will the value of the car first drop below 10% of the
original value?
todmin To amndinsuol

7.3 Logarithms to an Arbitrary Base and

their Applications

A Definition of Logarithms to an Arbitrary Base

In section 7.1, we learnt that if x = 10%, then the common logarithm of x
equals y, i.e. logx = y. y is also called the logarithm of x to the base 10.

In general, when x is expressed as the base a (where a > 0 and a # I), then
the index (say y) is called the logarithm of x to the base a. Symbolically,
we write y = logax.

If x = a' , then y = logaX, where a > 0 and a #

For example,

(a) 16 = 24 (b) 1- 3-2 (c) • 0.25 = 0.5-

log,16 = 4 logo $0.25 = 2

log,~ =-2

aftershock ftA
atomic bomb 5 7 Indian Ocean Earthquake EDE#X
7.23
 Number and Algebra

In fact, the following is also true:

Ity= loggx, then x = a', where a > O and a # 1.

Note: Consider x a'. where a > 0 and Since a' > 0 for all values
a #

of y(i.e. x > 0), log,x is undefined for x ≤0.

e.g. log:0 and log,(-5) are undefined.

Classwork

Complete the following table.

Exponential form (x = a") Logarithmic form (logax

(a) 36 = 62
g,
36 =2
(b)
81-34 log;81 = 4

= 41
(c)
log, a

logs) 3
Q-3
(d) =
-
512

Find the values of logarithms of numbers to

Example (7.13) different bases

Find the values of the following logarithms without using a calculator.

(a) log,64 (c) log, /125

Solution
Express 64 as power of the base 4.
(a) 64 = 4' a

l0g,64 = 3

2-2 I Express 7 as : power of the base

(b)
22

Think Further

(c) /125 - 153 - 53 4 Express /125 as a power of the base 5.

Find the values of the

following.
log, /125 = (a) log,24 (b) 2l0g24

Quick Practice 7.13

Find the values of the following logarithms without using a calculator.
(a) log,49 (b) log, a (e) 10g, /32
7.24
 Logarithmic Functions

N o n -f u d a t i
B Properties of Logarithms to an Arbitrary Base
Similar to common logarithm, for a > 0 and a # 1, we have:

The proofs of properties - 3

log a = 1 and log, 1 = 0 a= a and a'= 1
are similar to that of common
logarithms.
For example, log;2 = 1 and log,1 = 0.

Below are the properties of logarithms to an arbitrary base.

Let a > 0 and a # 1, b > 0 and b # For any M, N > 0, *+

Y)
Logalmn) Ligala-at) Use (@
1.
o of =
=
l0g.(MN) log,M - log N

2. loga N
M
l0g, M - log N
=
Xty
3. log M" = nlog.M, where n is a real number
log,
4. log,N
log, a

Property 4 is called the base-change formula of logarithms. Its proof is

as

follows:

Proof

For N > 0, a > 0 and a # 1, b > 0 and b # 1,

let log, N = xc. Then,

N = a* Convert to exponential form.

Take logarithms to the base b on both sides.

log,N = log, a"
log, N = xlog,a Property of logarithms: log,M" = n logM

log,N
log,a

log, N
log N =
log, a

log 1000 log,N

For example, 10g 00 1000 Take b = 10 in log,N:
log, a Concept Check
log 100
Find the value of 1o g 0o0 100.
We can use calculators to find the values of logarithms to an arbitrary

base. For example:

Keying sequence Result

Expression

log,18 2.630 929...

logi 4.1
-1.284 335...

log, 1.223 901...

7.25
 Number and Algebra

Classwork n6

Find the values of the following logarithms. (Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures.)
(a) log38 , (b) og,4 z_ (c) log40.2
(d) log2.34 z_
log(6
e)

ge
Example 7.14) logarithms
e 0 e a
Find the values of expressions by the properties of
to an arbitrary base
t

Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator.

(a) log,96 – log 12 (b) 21og3 + log4 (c) log 5125
Solution pu i
(a) log,%6 – log,12 = log196)
12) Alog M–log_/N= l g
= log,8
= log,2 tn dioog t znnirgol chet pgpne- 2atballoite i
=3
la t
(b) 21og3 + log4 = log3+ log4 nlog„M = log,M"
= log9 + log4 tbt d uns t

= log6 (9 x4) logaM+ log,N = 1og,UMMNY) t 1ako

= log36
= log,62 cbaa ue t
=22
ga

log 125 log N

(c) log 5125 = logaN = loga
log 25
an
log 5 1 d
log 55
lh nigo
3 log5
log M" =n log M eel toEeq
2 1og 5
3 udh ound al lr a tt a asinla
2 d

Alternative Solution
Tips for
B In Example 7.14(c), the bas
log,125 1o 5 of the logarithms used in the
log25125 =
log,25
log„N a
loga 3 base-change formula dor
log, n not affect calculation. So, we
can use any bases, e.g. 2, 5 or
log, 10 in the formula.
3

7.26
 LogarCNnmIC FunctIons

Quick Practice 7.14 enoliaup aithego0

Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator. dunatkiadnar
(a)log,32 + log48 (b) log,40 – 3 log,2 (c)log19raltcll uad

Example .15)Simnpli y an espresioe invohing logarttms toa

o
arbitrary base

Simplify the following expressions, where x>0, y>0) and x, y 1.

l0gA (c)(3log, l) (log,biniaahe
)
(a) g +21ogg–lg(2 ) (b)
10Br
Solution e t
(a) log +21bgg=log,(2) = log+ log–log(2 )Kung,jM=bgj eac
Md
= log2| log,M + log,N = loga(MIN),
M)
log„M – log„N = log N)
= los:a
(8 1
= log,2"
= aapu aa
log,x e9)
log„N =
log,Xlog,4 log a
(b)
log,x 102 Think Further

a For a>0, b>() and a, b 1

log,4 is it possible to simplify
1g„bX log, a? Explain your

log,2
aII

ad
nan hnnueftualep
tte9l
b-
(c) (3 log)(log„) *=
3log (1ogr) log,N =
E
logx logy
(3 logy |2logx)
2l
sihia(21ogx) logy
= 3

se

Quick Practice 7.15

Simplify the following expressions, where x>0, y>0) and x, y 1.
log.
J0g3 -3log *leg(4) (b)
J0B
( o, og, )

7.27
 Number and Algebra

C) Logarithmic Equations
For an equation with both sides involving logarithms with the same base, log„= log )*
an solve it by using the following property: r=y
iy

If log,= log, then X=y. M ti

na
Example Solve logarithmic equatonlS d Lt

(egdl- a
Solve the following logarithmic equations.
(a) log (3r – 1) = 3
(b) logX – log( – 1) = 2
(c) log, (4x) = log,6 S d- t e ayo e ad

Solution
log,(3r 1) =3
3r– 1 = 23
4If log)= 3, then y L. o
3r = 9
a
= Checking:
LH.S. = log (3) – 1} = log,8 = log,2 =3 = R.H.S.
(b) log6X— log6( 1) *= 2
a
J0g6x 2

da b 62 If log = 2, then y= 6.
lihl al ax—
36 — 36

35r= 36
36
x = Check whether the ansi
the original equation.

log (4x) = log,6

log, (4x)
= log,6 p
log,9 Tips for Students
log,(4x) Since the bases of the two
= log,6 log,9 = log,3=2 logarithms are not the same,

log, (4x) = 21og,6 i have to apply the Das

change formula to change the
log, (4x) = log,6
bg3( base of log,(4x) to base 3
first.
4x = 36 If log X= log ', then X=y.
= 1Check whether the answer obtained satisfies
the original equation.

7.28
 L0 dlIL unCtIONs

Quick Practice 7.16

ntapegau
Solve the following logarithmic equations
(a) log,(2x +1) = 3
(b) log,– log, (x – 6) =1t
(c) og4 (x+ 1) = log,3 MH
D

Smart H
Further Practice
3=
2 5)
1. Given that log,3 =p, express the following in terms of p.
Pflog23
Wgr2-lugr3 (b) log,9 o(d) log32 -
wgr
zwg23 (c) log,12 =

(a) log2| =
= 24P
= 1
-
P =
(Ei rP
= "p
2. Solve the following logarithmic equations.
(a) log,9 = 2 (b) log, (x+2) + log3 = log
e alt d jp i oi
9 xh
=

ttat
WS5(x+2) + Logit
X = 3 or X
3
Lrejected
thobnnto
=
ai ngile
=
zbqe dsgo2)bustloata
logib logsx =

logs(x+
-

Sed (g) = logy

Bi
Exercise 7D a
**
Saolbnsnto ao nraid odt pepteanl bE tdneesX 1 =

Level 1
tni a e
Find the values of the following logarithms without using a calculator. (1 – 6) Example 713)
log,27 2. log,64na jedgnnelo atento2
(ra gel caAt-dgoAt
3, log 4,log, V5 e Ego-(5 S
e Lgas1gdIt

5.log,4 4 = Wgst-lugs9

n each of the following, find the value of x correct to 3 significant figures. (7 – 8) tewole o oies
7. log = 0.5 8. log7=–2.1 3
ia

Find the values of the following logarithms. (Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures.) (9 – 12)
9. log, 10 10. log,38.7
a eaese
11.
l0g 12. log 3.5

7.29
 Number and Algebi

Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator. (13 – 20) 1lbt

13.log,24 – log,6-Example 7.14a) 14. + 1og54

15.log +zlog4 o 16. 3log,2 – log, 1000

17.
log, 16
18.
dog B
log,a
19. log,4 Example Z14 20. log, 3

ressions, where x>0 and x# 1. (21 – 24)

21.
log," log, (3x)
22.
log,X og,(9x at
23. 21ogg +los. 24. log– 3log(4x)

25.Given that log,2 = a and log,3 =b, express the following in terms of a and/or b.
(a) log (b)log,12 (c)log,10

26.Given that log3 = a and log5 = b, express the following in terms of a and/or b.
(a) log,75 (b) log,V15 (c) log 2.5
E R ol 2uai ti

Solve the following logarithmic equations. (27 – 30)

27.log;(x– 1) = 3 Evample 716a 28. log(2xr+5) = ()

29.log,(2x – 1) – log,81 = 1 Eample 71olb 30. log(3x+1) +log,64 :

Level 2

In each of the following, expresS x in terms of y. (31 – 34)

Logg 3
=

log,( – 2x) = 2
31. log – log,(4y) = 3 by
32.
8 x=
y

x
=

3
L
33. log (2x) = log(3y) 92(2x)
== 34. log,8 = log, 16
&

= 3
Find the values of the following expressions without using a calculator. (35 - 38)
35.log,8 – log, 18 – log, 12 36.
og2–log,18+21g
37. log 59X log27 = blogs 38.
1ogg49
log7 -
7.30 = = 3
 7 Logarithmic Functions

Simplify the following expressions, where x>() and x#1. (39 – 44)k gdkon oialiuln e
-
log,2 + log, (2 ) log, (3x) *
39. 40. 18x)+ Logax -Logg (4x5
log,(2x) log,(9x) – log. = logg
=
Logg
41. log, -3log, +21og (6x) Eangl1 42. log(B )+ logx-g4) =O
= lugal

S
log, log,+ log|x
43. 44.
-Example 7.15(b
log, log,X
t u al = /
Simplify the following expressions, where x>0, y>0) and x, y#1. (45 – 46)

(S log, )(log,) Gbample 11s

dbn
46.
log, -
nilog,(y) – log,(xy)n1l oniths0at ni l
ean inteittueiai

assoD
47.
Given that log,4 =Xand log,5 = , express the following in terms of xand y.
(a)log logz 4+ log35-log, 9(b) log; 10 logs (5x4)
(20)
= =
(c) log,0.3 ligs(r) =

= X +y 2 - =
+ EX
kat dnlso
48.Given that log 5 10 = , express log,2 in terms of x. Logi (g5x2) Ei +logj2 = X
= =

= Logisty
49. Let log,2 =X and log53 =y. logg 2 X + =

LigsBriltlogstolanice
-

Hence, express log

It logj2 logs - gol
(a)Express log,30 in terms of x and y.ggol
I
=

= x+
+

sy
30 in terms of x and y.
3 Wgj2 =
WX2X -
1

Eshn
* liguj30 =
Solve the following logarithmic equations. (50 – 55)
Nee u nmlmzuoimnoiu ei
U. log,(x+1) + log 3 = log(2x+5) 51. log,(2x+1) – log, = 21og,2 bnserip
52. og,(3r
log, (x+ 2) – log 2) = 1 53. log4(x+ 3) = log4 (x– 3) –2
log = -z
48
3=16x +
s dEa x
-

=t B
54.log,x= log!16 (Example 71d
dsai
Ltat
zi
55.log„(2x) – log,8 =0asiuituo
cinlnnja ed crejected)

- log8 =0

Wests Lugjf=

Logarithr mic Transformation U p

(2x 3r
11a

= 8 x=

In real life applications, we sometimes come across non-linear relationships

between two quantities (or variables). t1ast noled 9Tdnitse d
ralunteehaantuianta a
For example, consider the two variables X and y with relation in the formna
y = ka” or y = kx" (where k, a and n are constants, k>0, a>0, a# 1 and
#1). If we plot the graphs of y= ka" and y= kr", we will see that the
graphs are curves. The unknown constants k, a and n may not be easily found
from the graphs. In such cases, we may convert the non-linear relationships
into linear relationships by taking logarithms on both sides of the equation
first.

7.31
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Case 1 Convert y =
ka" into logy = xloga+ logk.
log y
e.g.

log y = x log a + log k

slope log a

logarithmic transformation

y = ka*

non-linear relationship between x and y logy = log (ka®) linear relationship between x and logy
log y = log k loga"
1Slope-intercept form: y = mx +
log y = xloga+ logk
slope y-intercept

After the logarithmic transformation, we can find a and k by considering

the slope and the intercept on
the vertical axis.

Case 2 Convert y =
kx" into logy = nlogx +logk.
e.g.
log y

log y = n log x + log k

= kx"

(>0,0 <n<1) logarithmic transformation slope n

log
y = kx"
log x
logy = log(kx")
non-linear relationship between x andy linear relationship between logx and logy
log y = logk + log x"

logy = nlogx + logk

After the logarithmic transformation, we can find n and k by considering

the slope and the intercept on the vertical axis.

Note: In the above two cases, we use common logarithm to demonstrate

the logarithmic transformation. In fact, we can also use logarithm
to an arbitrary base to perform logarithmic transformation.

Application of logarithmic transformation for the

Example (7.17 case y = ka"

log, V
Air leaks through a small hole on a rubber balloon. The volume (V cm') of

air left in the balloon after it has leaked for t minutes is given by V= ab'
where a and b are positive constants. (5, 1.5)

The figure shows the graph of logs V against The graph passes through
(0, 2) and (5, 1.5).

(a) Express logs V in terms of a, b and t.

Link to DSE ©
(b) Find the values of a and b, correct to significant figures if necessary. Exam Focus (p. 7.69)
Exam-type Questions 4, 11
------

logarithmic transformation #124

7.32
 7 Logarithmic Functions

N o n -f u d a t i
Solution

(a) V = ab'
Tips for Students
log, V = logs(ab')
Take logarithm to the base
logs V = log,a + logsb' on both sides of V = ab.

log,V = (logsb)t+log;a

(b) From (a), we have

log, V = (logsb)t + log,a Intercept on the vertical axis = logs a,

slope = log, b
The graph cuts the vertical axis at (0, 2).

logsa = 2
= 5-
al tgrm on to airn
25
2- 1.5
Slope of the line
0-5

log,b =-0.1
b = 5-0.1
= 0.851 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

Quick Practice 7.17

log, y
The figure shows the graph of log3 y against x. The graph passes through
(0. 1) and (-2, 0). It is given that y= ab™. where a and b are positive constants.

(a) Express log, y in terms of a, b and x.

(b) Find the values of a and b, correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.

0)

Application of logarithmic transformation for the

Example (7.18)
case y = kx"

The cost $C of printing x copies of promotion pamphlets in a printing logg C

company is given by C = kx" where k and n are constants. The figure
the
shows the graph of logs C against logs x. The slope and intercept on

the vertical axis of the graph are and 1 respectively.

15

(a) Express log& C in terms of k, n and log4x. log, x

(b) Find the values of k and n.

and n obtained in (b), find the values of

(c) Using the values of k

(i) C when x = 32,

Link to DSE &

(ii) x when C = 4. Exam Focus (p. 7.69)

Exam-type Questions 3, 14

7.33
 Number and Algebra

Solution

(a)b C = kx" ho
logC = log(kx")
log,C= logk + log " 2nf
nlog4 log,N
logC= logk +- 4log,N
log,8 h

log 2e ol
loaC- gr+logk log48 =
log 2=
(b) From (a), we have
( i olo a l th
logC=- 3 2og x+ logk Intercept on the vertical axis =
slope =-

The intercept on the vertical axis of the graph is 1.

'. log,k =1 n 9d f
k= -eea

Slope of the line =;

n
b0
d t 2eg or7 fa ad aT

( ) From (b), we have C= &x nno miaotnul

e

b0ownt 00(
() When x= 32,nttC a br
H0h2 gdanoiae R▇
C= 8(32)
=1a
nt haroa edh
(i) When C=4,
&r rinhg pdoin s totonohe09 rhntnnz
10gil oi2mg
to rsoD i um gooE gs
rs uo 25t 0
x
ig n 2

7.34
 7 Logarithmic Functions

N o n -f u d a t i
Quick Practice 7.18
The figure shows the graph of loggsy against logsx. The graph passes through
(0, - 1) and (4, -6). It is given that y = mx'. where m and n are constants.
log,

(a) Express log2sy in terms of m, n and logsx.

(b) Find the values of m and n.

(c) Using the values of m and n obtained in (b), find the values of

y when x = 0.25,

(ii) x when y = 40.96.

E Other Applications

Example 7.19 Problem involving logarithms

The estimated number of players N (in thousands) of a new online game

on the tth day after it is launched is given by N = 80 + 15log 3(t + 10).

(a) Find the number of players of the new online game on the 5th day
after the launch.

(b) The promotion of the online game will end when the number of

players reaches 110 000. When will the promotion end?

(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.)

Solution

(a) When t = 5,

N = 80 + 15log (5 + 10)
= 80 + 1510g 315
= 95.8 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

The number of players of the new online game on the 5th day
after the launch is 95 800.

(b) When N = 110,

110 = 80 + 15log13(t + 10)
30 = 15 log (t + 10)
log13(t + 10) = 2
t+ 10 = 134
t = 159

The promotion will end on the 159th day after the launch of the

online game.

7.35
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Quick Practice 7.19
In an
experiment, the weight (W mg) of a substance x minutes after a chemical
reaction starts is given by W = 0.3l0g6 (3x + 1) + 2.5.

(a) Find the initial weight of the substance.

(b) Find the weight of the substance 1 hour after the chemical reaction starts.

(c)
It is given that the substance weighs 3.5 mg after T hours. Find the value
of T.

(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.)

Exercise 7E enobsalionAtoro

Level

1. The figure shows the graph of log, against x. The graph passes log, y

through (0, -3) and (6, 0). It is given that ab*. where a and b are
positive constants.
(6, 0)
(a) Express log, y in terms of a, b and X.
emilad
(b) Find the values of a and b. ~Example 7.17

2. The figure shows the graph of logy against x. The graph cuts the
log, y
vertical axis at (0, 4) and the slope of the graph is -0.5. It is tausoriinutela
given that y = pq®, where p and q are positive constants.

(a) Express logoy in terms of p, q and X.

(b) Find the values of p and q, correct to 3 significant figures if

necessary.

3. The figure shows the graph of log) against log;x. The slope and log, y
both 2. It is
the intercept on the vertical axis of the graph are

given that y = mx', where m and n are positive constants.

(a) Express log;) in terms of m, n and log;X.

(b) Find the values of m and n.

log, x

log y
4. The figure shows the graph of log against log x. The graph cuts
the horizontal axis and the vertical axis at (3, 0) and (0, 3) respectively.
It is given that y = ax' where a and b are constants, and a > 0.

(a) Express log y in terms of a, b and log x.

(b) Find the values of a and b.

log ;

7.36
 7 Logarithmic Functions

N o n -f u d a t i
5. An
experiment is carried out to investigate the number of bacteria in a log, ^

container after some chemical is added to it. The number of bacteria (N)
in the container after hours is modelled by N = ab', where a and b are (0, 2
(3, 1.8)
positive constants. The figure shows the graph of log, N against t. It is
known that
the graph passes through (0, 2) and (3, 1.8).
(a) Express logs N in terms of a, b and

(b) Find the values of a and b. correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.

6.
The number of customers (N) visiting a restaurant on the xth day since opening is estimated by
N = 200log (5x + 10).
the nearest integer.
(a) Find the number of customers on the 3rd day since opening, correct to
(b) If the number of customers on the kth day is 400, find the value of k.

7. The number of cells (N) on the xth day of an experiment is given by

N= 1500 logg(x 82). ~Example 7.19

(a) Find the number of cells on the 6th day of the experiment.

(b) Given that the number of cells on the kth day of the experiment is
3900, find the value of k.1 dciat

(Give your answers correct to the nearest integer.)ol todlt

8. The number of visitors (N) to a tourist attraction on the ith day since
opening is estimated by N = 250 + 10010gs(2t).

(a) Find the number of visitors on the 8th day.

(b) If the number of visitors on the kth day is 550, find the value of k.

(Give your answers correct to the nearest integer.)

Level 2

9. The figure shows the graph of logy against x. The graph passes through log y

(0, 2) and (3, 5). It is given that logy = mx + c, where m and c are constants.

(a) Find the values of m and c.

(b) Express y in terms of x.

(c) Hence, find the values of

(i) y when x = 1,

(ii) X when y = 0.1.

10. The figure shows the graph of log, y against x for the relationship y = pq. log, y
on the vertical axis and
where p and g are positive constants. The intercepts
the horizontal axis at and respectively.

(a) Express log, y in terms of p, q and x.

(b) Find the values of and q.
in (b), find the
(c) Using the round-off values of p and q obtained
values of

(i) y when x = -1,

(ii) x when y = 31.
7.37
(Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures.)
 Number and Algebra

11. The figure shows a graph of log, against log; x the relationship log, y way)
youo
N o n -f u d a t i o r
for
y = kx" where k and m are positive constants. The graph passes

a
36

go
= 0 .
through (2, 0.16) and with slope -0.1.
(2, 0.16) y
(a) Express logg y in terms of k, m and log, x. (, 0. 36)
(b) Find the values of k and m, correct to decimal place.

Slopeel
log, 2

we -5
(c) Using the round-off values of k and m obtained in (b),
find the values of
a
wgkobzirCortole
~Example 7.18
(i) y when x 5,

(ii) x when y 1.5.

(Give your answers correct to 2 decimal places.)

logbilogt 20
12. Given the relation V
v = kx". where k and n are positive constants. When x= 2, . 11.3; when x= 3,
==
= 31.2. Find
the values of k and n, correct to decimal place. logyznlogX + Ligh whogs thogh
3= whogh+ rgkg31
.
2=
①Wyll
b areHiga
a andxlogb
.

13. Given the relation y = ab*. where when X= 6,

Logy positive constants. When x: 4, y = 3.65;

warlight
=

y = 2.64. Find the values of a and b, correct to 2 decimal

places.
3652Plosb Lege
14.
lge-log
The figure shows the
= log264-blogbhoge
+

graph of logy against log x. The graph passes log y

through (0, -2) and (4, 4). It is given that logy alogx+b, where a (4, 4) .

=
and b are constants.
bit
(a) Find the values of a and b. logkit
%
(b) Express y in terms of x. y kx"logyinlogtlogh
: kit
= 0 .

log x

+ logh
3

We E Good
,
=
Elogy gard
(c) Find the percentage change in the value of y when x is doubled,
correct to 3 significant figures. y. = kxh yz =
RE 2"kyh
12
=

=
,

per = 2 - - 1 =183%

O The amount of food (A) which has passed through the stomach t hours after intake is estimated by
15.

LigA Log (110-014t + LogHo

log A = log Ao + log(1 - 10 -0.14f). =>
=

where A is the initial amount of food intake. A = Ao(l-10-lt) At 4t

+ As 0

- - AotA So% Do =

5 At least how many hours will it take for more than 80% of the food intake to pass through the
T
*
stomach?
-As 10 Go =

16. In an experiment, the number (N) of a certain kind of fungi on the tth
· za
day (t ≥ 2) after the start of the
prolet 2=
- 0 .
14t
log
0 .

experiment can be modelled by N

1350 fungi on the
= No + 300log 6(t + 2), where N, is a
2nd day after the start of the experiment.
constant. It is given that there are
t =
Find the values of No.
1350 = Not 300 Loga (2+2) tif
(a)
Explain
No =
1350-Soologist = 1200
(b) Someone claims that there are more than 1600 fungi exactly 6 weeks after the start of the experiment.
Do you agree? Explain your answer. N= 1200 + 300 6g (6x7+2) = 1609 stor
(c) The number of fungi on the mth day is increased by 15 when compared with that 10 days ago. Find
the value of m.
75 .
1200 + 300logis (m+2) + Blogs (m- -
1
8)) = 15
m+2
=
1 m-16s
300 Logi (n-8)

Stom
300 Wiglmth - = j
logrolf)
m+L
e
17. log; y is a linear function of log, x. The intercepts
It is given that on the vertical axis and the horizontal
8 - V

axis of the graph of the linear function are b and -12 respectively. Suppose y!" = 2"xP.
Highest common factor
are positive integers and H.C.F. of m and p is 1. Find the values of m, n and p.
where m, n and p
m =
user =
75
loggst

p
= 3
loggy logX+ - logging g logox3
.

y = 805 =y=
28x
kyy4 23
7.38 --
-is logpY y=
=
 7 Logarithmic Functions

7.4 Graphs of Logarithmic Functions and

their Features
uonep j-UON
Consider y = logx.

For any value of x (x >0), there is only one corresponding value of y. example,
4 For

In other words, y = log x is a function of x. when x = 0.1, y=-1;

when x = 1, y = 0;
A function in the form y when x -2,y= 0.301(cor. to 3 d.p.).
=logax or f(x)= logaX, where a > 0 and # 1, is
called a logarithmic function. 1e.g. y = log,x and
f(x) = logix are logarithmic
Since x = a' > 0 (where a > 0), loggx is undefined for x ≤ 0. In fact, the functions.

domain of a logarithmic function is all positive real numbers.

The Graphs of y= log. x where a > 1

Activity 7.2
Graphs of y = log, x for a > and their features

The following figure shows the graph of the logarithmic function y = log;x.

# log, xn

1. Complete the tables for the logarithmic functions y = logox and y = log;x, and plot their graphs on
the coordinate plane above. (Give the values of y correct to 1 decimal place if necessary.)

y= logox Alogox=logx

0.3 0.6

- .
5 -
0 . 20 0 .
3 0 . 5 0 .
t

y= log2X

0.3 0.6

+7 .
-
0: 7 0 1 1 6
.
2

logarithmic function #1BLLEK

7.39
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n Consider the three graphs on the previous page and answer questions 2 and 3.

2. (a) Do the graphs cut the y-axis?

Yes -
No
(b) Do the graphs always lie on the right-hand side of the y-axis?
~
Yes [ No
3. (a) Do the graphs cut the x-axis at the same point?
If yes, state the coordinates of that point.
~
IYes, 21 0) ,

(b) In
each of the following ranges of x, are the values of y positive or negative?
(Circle the correct answer.)

Range of x Values of y

0<x<1
&
positive / negative

&
positive / negative

(c) As x increases, the value

O
of y (increases / decreases).

From Activity 7.2, we can observe that the graphs of y = logx, y = log;x
and y= log ox have similar features. In general, the graph of y = loggx
(where a > 1) also have the following features.

1. The graph never cuts the y-axis. It lies on the right-hand side of

the y-axis.

2. (a) The graph cuts the x-axis at (1, 0). y= log,x(a>1)

(b) (i) The graph lies below the x-axis for 0 < x < 1.
(ii) The graph lies above the x-axis for x 2 1.

3. (a) The value of y increases as x increases.

(b) As x increases, the rate of increase of y becomes smaller.
4. The graph has neither a maximum point, a minimum point nor
an axis of symmetry.

7.40
 7 Logarithmic Functions

B The Graphs

N o n -f u d a t i o n
of y = log. x where 0 < a < 1

Consider the graphs of y = log,* and y = log_x, where x > 0.

log,*

P(2,
b47070116 2
y = log.x

log

We can see that P(2, 1) is a point on the graph of y = log2X. If we reflect Reminder
P(2, 1) about the x-axis, its image is P'(2, -1). It is point on the graph of
If P(x, y) is reflected about
y = logix. In fact, the graph of y = log x can be obtained by reflecting the the x-axis, then the
coordinates of its image are
graph of = loggx about the x-axis, and vice versa.
(x, -y).

In general, the graphs of y = logar and logix show reflectional

symmetry with each other about the x-axis.

y = 10gax(a > 1)

axis of symmetry

Classwork

In each of the following, consider the graph of y= log x for both ranges of a (i.e. a > 1 and
0 < a < I). Put a /" in the box if it is true; otherwise, put 'X' in the box.

(a) The graph cuts the x-axis at (1, 0).

(b) The graph lies on the right-hand side of the y-axis.

(c) The graph goes upwards from left to right as x increases.

7.41
 Number and Algebra

N o n -f u d a t i o n
The figure shows the graphs of and = logjox.
y = log,x, y log,x
log!x,
and
By symmetry, we can sketch the graphs of y = logosx, y = 10g0.25* logo.2sx = logix,
y = logo1x easily. logor* = log_x

a>1

log,
The larger the value of a,
the flatter is the graph of

loga*.

0<a<1

The smaller the value of a,

1og,253 the flatter is the graph of
= logX.
logo.5 x

The following table summarizes the features of the graphs of logarithmic functions for different ranges of a.

Range of a>1 0<a<1

Graph of
V= logat

Common 1. The graph cuts the x-axis at (1, 0).

features
2. The graph never cuts the y-axis. It lies on the right-hand side of the y-axis.
3. The graph has neither a maximum point, a minimum point nor an axis of symmetry.
Differences 1. (a) < 0 for 0 < x < 1. (a) y > 0 for 0 < x < 1
(b) y > 0 for x > 1 (b) y < 0 for x > 1
2. The value of y increases as x increases. 2. The value of y decreases as x increases.
3. As x increases, the rate of increase of y 3. As
x increases, the rate of decrease of y
becomes smaller.
becomes smaller.

7.42
 Logar
(arithmiC Functions

Solve problems using the graph of a logarithmic

Example 1.20 function At

The figure shows the graph of y = log, .

Reminder

The grid lines on the graph

y = log3 -
npaperdetermine the accuracy
of the best solution that can

↑
PDnprele be obtained. The scales of
the axes in this figure allow
the values of x
ad y correct to the near
0 1

diaeinie
(a) Using the graph, find the values of

() log;1.5, (ii)
"o4.2, tSeiantcb
Solve the following
1g equations graphically.

() log,= 1.6 (ii) log X= 0.6

Solution

(b0) log, X

(a)(6)

t uls bnid an e
) From the graph, when x= 1.5, y =0.4. a1ti

:. log,1.5 = 0.4
tn deei a walae l(

log,4. log,N e Tips for Students

(ii)log!4.2 = 4log,N =log a
4.2 to a
log,
logarithm with base 3 first by
log,4.2 the base-change formula.
log,3-
=–log,4.2

7.43
 Number and Algebra

Non-r u dati
From the graph, when x = 4.2, y = 1.3.
log;4.2 = 1.3

log14.2 =-l0g,4.2
-1.3

(b) (i) From the graph, when y = 1.6, x Concept Check

5.8.
Refer to the figure. Which of
The solution of log,x = 1.6 is x 5.8.
the following curve may

(ii) logix = 0.6 represent the graph of

= logo4x?
log;x log;x
-log;x = 0.6 Ilogrx= log;x
log;3
logX =-0.6

From the graph, when

y = -0.6, x = 0.5.
The solution of log!x = 0.6 is x = 0.5.

Quick Practice 7.20

The figure shows the graph of y = logix.

I
↑
log x

(a) Using the graph, find the values of

Wg) 5
=
-
.

(i) log.2.3, (ii) log;3.5. = 1-8

- 1 -
2

(b) Solve the following equations graphically.

(i) log!x = =2.2 (ii) log;x =-1.3

Dz4 S .
WSX 1 3 =
.

X =0 .
4

7.44
 uonep j-uoN
C Relationship between Graphs of Exponential and
Logarithmic Functions
Consider the graphs of y = 2* and y = loggx on the same coordinate plane.

P(3,8) >

x0123
71248
y = logg*

1248 Concept Check

Q(8,3) 70123 Refer to the figure. If Pis
reflected about the line
to Q, mark Q on the

figure.

log,

We can see that the graphs of y = 2* and y= log,x show reflectional log; 2
and
symmetry with each other about the line y= x. Note that P(3, 8)
Q(8, 3) are the images of each other after reflecting about the line y = X.

When plotting the graphs of and logrx on the same coordinate

plane, we can also find that the graphs show reflectional symmetry with each
other about the line VEx.

and y = l0ga* for a > 0 and a # show

In general, the graphs of y = a
reflectional symmetry with each other about the line y= x.

7.45
 Number and Algebra

to erigs1O neowded

N o n -f u d a t i o n
Classwork
the box.
the box if it is true; otherwise, put a
In each of the following, put a/' in

000
(a) Consider the graph of the function y = logox.

(i) It passes through (0, 1). Y

(ii) When 0 < x < 1, it lies below the x-axis.
~
(iii) When x > 1, it lies above the x-axis.

(b) Consider the graph of the function y = logo.2x.

000
(i) It lies on the
~
right-hand side of the y-axis.
~
(ii) When 0 < x < 1, it lies above the x-axis.
~
(iii) When x > 1, it lies below the x-axis.

(c) (i) The graphs of y = log,x and y = log x show reflectional symmetry with each
~
other about the x-axis.
0
The graphs of and y = log,x show reflectional symmetry with each other
about the line y = x.
0
X

Exercise 7F

(For Q7 - 10 and 13 - 16 in this exercise, students may need to work on the figures in answering the questions.
Softcopies of these figures are provided in the companion website of this series for students' use, if necessary.)

Level 1

1. (a) Which of the following graphs may represent the graph of

(i) y = 4"? (ii) y = loggx?

(iii) (iv) y = logix?

Graph (I) Graph (II) Graph (III) Graph (IV)

(b) Which two graphs in (a) show reflectional symmetry with each other about
(i) the x-axis?

(ii) the y-axis?

7.46
 Logarithmic Functions

the figure, the graphs of y = logsx and

N o n -f u d a t i o n
In
2. logix cut the x-axis

at A.
logs x
(a) Write down the coordinates of A.

(b) Do the two graphs show reflectional symmetry with each

other? If yes, state the axis of symmetry.

y = logix

3. In the figure, the graph of y = logo.8x cuts the x-axis at A, and the

graph of y = 0.8* cuts the y-axis at B. logo.8 X

(a) Write down the coordinates of A and B.

(b) Do the two graphs show reflectional symmetry with each

other? If yes, state the axis of symmetry.

y = 0.8*

4. Write down the function whose graph is symmetrical to the graph of each of the following logarithmic
functions about the x-axis.

(a) y = log2x

(b) y= log;x

(c) y = l0go.25X

5. Write down the function whose graph is symmetrical to the graph of each of the following logarithmic
functions about the line y = x.

(a) y= log;x

(b) y = log x

(c) y = 0.15*

the graph of y = log;x and logx. They cut the

6. The figure shows
x-axis at point A.

(a) Write down the logarithmic functions represented by C, and C2

C2
respectively.

(b) Write down the coordinates of A.

7.47
 Number and Algebra

given graph of logarithmic function, sketch the required graph

N o n -f u d a t i o n
7. In each of the following, according to the
on the same graph paper. (7 - 8)
(a) graph of y= logix (b) graph of y = 6*

log6 2

8.
(a) graph of y = log,x (b) graph of

Level 2

9. In the figure, the graph of y = log x passes through A(7, -1)

!
and c/! B and D are the images of A and C respectively

after reflecting about the x-axis.

(a) Mark the points B and D with their coordinates on the

figure. B(7 1) , DE -
(b) Sketch the graph of y = log,x on the figure. y=logix
A(7, -1)

10. In the figure, the graph of y = 4" cuts the y-axis at A, and

passes through B(1, 4). C and D are the images of A and B

after reflecting about the line y = x respectively.

Ali
(a) Write down the coordinates of A.

(b) Mark the points C and D with their coordinates on the

t
figure.

(c) Sketch the graph of y = log,x on the

figure.

7.48
 Logarithmic Functions

N o n -f u d a t i o n
11. The figure shows the graphs of y = log,x, y= log,* and y = logx,
where a, b and c are positive constants not equal to 1. Arrange a, b, y= log, X

and in ascending order of their values.

log, X
< karb
log,x

12. The figure shows the graphs of Cpy = logo.5x, C2:y = logax and
Cy:y = log,x, where a and b are integers. The three graphs intersect
at the same point A. The graphs C, and C, have reflectional symmetry
about the x-axis.
C: y = log, x
(a) Write down the coordinates of A. All 0),

(b)
Open-ended
Find the value of a.
Y= log2X
Cp:y = 10go.5x
(c) Suggest two possible values of b.
3 ,
la

13. Originally, the graphs of y = log;x, y = logsx, y = logix and y = logix

5

W
are to be plotted on the same rectangular coordinate system. However,
only three of them have been plotted as shown in the figure. It is given
G,
that G2 and G, have reflectional symmetry about the x-axis.

(a) Write down the logarithmic functions represented by Gy, G2 and G3

G3
respectively. G z Yilog G : Y= logy Ginology
:

(b) Sketch the graph of the missing graph on the figure.

14. The figure shows the graph of ) logsx.

of 1og5 >
(a) Using the graph, find the values
85

:..
(i) log,4, 0 .

(iil) logs9. 1 35 :

(b) Solve the following equations graphically.

2 2
(i) logsx = 0.5 .

(ii) logsx = 1.25 74 .

7.49
 Number and Algebra

15. The

N o n -f u d a t i o r
figure shows the graph of y = logx.

(a) Using the graph, find the values of

log,2.6, (ii) log 4.3.

(b) Solve the following equations graphically.

(i) log,x = 0.6 (ii) logix = 1.4 [~Example 7.20

16. The figure shows the graph of y = log;x.

(a) Using the graph, find the values of

38
(i) log;2.5,
- lgj] = .

⑳
-
1 8
.
(ii) log,7. f
-
.......

(b) Solve the following equations graphically.

S

(i) Slogo6X ==9 25 .

↓Y
(ii) log x =-6log &
I log;

--
-

= -
blogz (5)
Logix
- bx) 25
Wg blogg (5)
=
.

= -
x
=
-
6
WgX =Glog (
7.5 Historical Development of the Concept of
Logarithms

Before the invention of calculators and computers, logarithm was used to

convert multiplications and divisions of very large or very small numbers

into additions and subtractions. These conversions helped scientists greatly
in their complicated calculations.

A The Logarithm Tables

John Napier (Hiyx f#, 1550 - 1617), a Scottish mathematician, was the first

person to introduce the concept of logarithms. He published the Napier's

logarithm table in 1614, but his table did not use 10 as the base.

Later, Henry Briggs (Ai ! Mf, 1561 - 1630), a British mathematician, suggested
using the base 10 in Napier's logarithm table for the sake of convenience
and he first published the tables of common logarithms in 1617. These tables
were important tools for calculation, especially in astronomy, before the
invention of calculators and computers.

John Napier
7.50
 7 Logarithmic Functions

Common logarithms of numbers between

N o n -f u d a t i o n
and 10 can be found directly by
using the logarithm tables correct to 4 significant figures. Part of a logarithm
table iS shown as follows.

LOGARITHMS

ADD

771 4786 4800

4814 4829 4843[435772O
4928 4942 4955 4969 4983 4997
5092

3.3 .5185
3.3 -5182 5198
9101P. & & 9 10 12
41.5315 5328[5340 5 9 10 11
5441 5453 5465 5- 9 10 11
J.5563 5575 55875: 8 1011

-
8910
2 5 6 7 8 910
3.9.5911/5922 5933 5 6010 2 8.910

For example,

(a) log 3.1 = 0.4914

(b) log 3.32 = 0.5211

(c) log 3.579 = 0.5527 + 0.0011 1 The digit in 3.579 corresponds to the value 11 in the add column,
which represents 0.0011.
= 0.5538

To find the common logarithm of a number that is not between 1 and 10,
the key steps are to express it in scientific notation, and then use the

property of logarithms.

For example,

(a) log 365 = log (3.65 x 103) 1365 = 3.65 x 102

= log 3.65 - -log 10-

= [0.5623 + 2
2.5623

(b) log 0.388 = log (3.88 x 10Tl) 40.388 = 3.88 x 10-1

= log 3.88 + log 1071
= 0.5888 + (-1)
-0.4112

Classwork

Find the values of the following logarithms by using the logarithm table.

(a) log 3.356 = 0 . 5258 (b) log 0.037 =

7.51
 Number and Algebra

B The Anti-logarithm Tables

N o n -f u d a t i If log x = y, then x= 10', and 10" is called the anti-logarithm of y.

For example, 1000 is the anti-logarithm of 3. 11000 103
anti-logarithm
of 3 is 1000.
1000
logarithm of
1000 is 3.

The anti-logarithm table can be used to find the

anti-logarithms of numbers
between 0 and 1, correct to 4
significant figures. The following shows part
of an anti-logarithm table.

ANTI-LOGARITHMS

01 23 ADD

5012 5023 5058

5093 5105 5117
212 5224
5248
O 33 5346 9 10 1
.73 5370 5383 5420 $5445 5458 5470 5483
.74 5495 5508 552 5546 5559 5572
.75 O & 10

) 10

9111
578 10111
.78
16109
19(6223(6237 6252 6124[6138
678
.79 6180
6266 628119 11 13

For example,

(a) Iflogx = 0.71,

then x = 100.71

= 5.129 5129 in the main column represents 5.129.

(b) If log x = 0.765,

then x = 100.765
= 5.821

(c) Iflogx = 0.7326,

then x = 10°.7326
= 5.395 + 0.008 The digit 6 in 0.7326 corresponds to the value 8 in the add column,
which represents 0.008.
= 5.403

For a number logx that is not between 0 and 1, we can find x by first
expressing it as x = 10Pt", where 0 ≤ p < 1 and an integer.

For example,
Think Further
(a) If logx = 3.743,
Do you know how to use the
then X= 103.743 properties of logarithms, the
= 10°.743 x 103 13.743 = 0.743 + 3
logarithm and anti-logarithm
tables to evaluate
= 5.534]x 1000 3.945 x 387.4,
0.0003
5534

7.52
 7 Logarithmic Functions

Iflogx=-0.225,

N o n -f u d a t i o n
(b)
10-0.225
then x =
= 100.775 x 10-1 -0.225 = 0.775 + (-1)
= 5.957 x 0.1
= 0.5957

Classwork

In each of the following equations, find the value of x by using the anti-logarithm table.

(a) log x = 0.7456 5559 +

/
0. 008 (b) log x = 4.725 5 30x 1000 = 530 %
.

X= 1007456 = 5 567
: X= 17
. 725

X = 10
% Firs

C The Slide Rule

The introduction of the concept of logarithm was a great breakthrough in
the evaluation of multiplications and divisions. However, checking tables
was time-consuming. This motivated Edmund Gunter (1144, 1581 - 1626),
an English astronomer, to develop a new calculating device in 1620. The
device was a 2-foot long rule with numbers marked in positions in proportion
to their respective logarithmic values.

In 1632, William Oughtred (LL4 TH E, 1575 - 1660) of Cambridge University

combined two Gunter's rules by placing them opposite each other. By William Oughtred
He is regarded as the inventor
sliding and aligning the markings on the two rules, he could do calculations of the slide rule.

more conveniently. His design formed the basis of slide rules.

A modern slide rule

Later, different people refined the design of the slide rule. Scales representing
and cosines were added. Although only
squares, square roots, sines
the slide rule, it remained as an
approximate values can be found by
important mechanical calculator before the invention of scientific calculators.

Astronauts and scientists of

N AS A ( National Aeronautics and
Space Administration) were still
using the slide rules in 1970s.

astronomer AXFR astronaut XEX

7.53