7.4 Evaluate Logarithms and Graph Logarithmic Functions
Intro to Logarithms
Logarithms can be thought of as taking the inverse of the exponent function.
![Reference: McDougal Littell, Algebra 2 pg. 499](https://beta.geogebra.org/resource/tgX4Rk8k/AkCfJmMEwGzLKgfQ/material-tgX4Rk8k.png)
Practice Makes Perfect
Before we begin exploring, we will practice the purely algebraic techniques involving Logarithms.
(Littell)
Ex. 1
Ex. 2
Graphing the Logarithmic Function
Concept: Because the logarithmic function and exponential function are inverse of each other, the graph of the logarithmic function will be a reflection of the exponential function on the other side of the y = x line.
![Reference: McDougal Littell, Algebra 2 pg. 502](https://beta.geogebra.org/resource/bAaUm3zU/o2zJPKq46WgpA4lZ/material-bAaUm3zU.png)
Model Reference
Tim Brzezinski
https://www.geogebra.org/tbrzezinski
Instructions for Model
1) Play with the a slider. This is the base of the logarithm. Recall what role this plays in the exponential function.
2) Next, play with the c slider. What are the similarities and differences with this and exponential growth and decay.
3) Play with the k slider. What does this do to the graph?
4) Play with d. What does this do to the graph?