Logarithms and Logarithmic Functions

The function ln x is interpreted as the natural logarithm base e. Logarithms to other bases are entered with a subscript on the function log. Thus, evaluation gives log525 =  2 and log10103 =  3. The symbol log x is interpreted as the natural logarithm (base e) unless you make a change in the Maple Settings dialog.

$\blacktriangleright$ To change the default for the function name log from base e to base 10

1.
From the menu Maple, choose Settings.

2.
Choose Definition Options.

3.
Under Base for Log Function, check Change from e to 10.

4.
Choose OK.

All logarithmic functions are converted symbolically to natural logarithms by evaluation as follows.

$\blacktriangleright$ Evaluate

log10x =  ${\dfrac{{\ln x}}{{\ln 2+\ln 5}}}$ 6pt

log2x =  ${\dfrac{{\ln x}}{{\ln 2}}}$ 6pt

log$\scriptstyle {\frac{{1}}{{2}}}$x =   - ${\dfrac{{\ln x}}{{\ln 2}}}$ 12pt

Thus, the behavior of the system for natural logarithms is of particular interest.



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