dopecalc

Logarithm Calculator

Compute logarithms in any base, including natural log (ln) and common log (log10).

Calculate Logarithms

Must be > 0

> 0 and ≠ 1

About this Calculator

Compute logarithms in any base, including natural log (ln) and common log (log10).

Formula & Calculations

Formula

log_b(x) = ln(x) / ln(b), ln(x) = natural log, log10(x) = common log
Where:
  • x=The value whose logarithm is being computed (must be positive)
  • b=The base of the logarithm (must be positive and not equal to 1)
  • log_b(x)=The exponent to which b must be raised to obtain x

Assumptions

  • The value x must be strictly positive (x > 0). Logarithms of zero or negative numbers are undefined in real numbers.
  • The base must be positive and not equal to 1.

Calculation Examples

Example 1

Inputs:Value: 100, Base: 10
Result:log10(100) = 2

10 must be raised to the power of 2 to equal 100 (10^2 = 100).

Example 2

Inputs:Value: 8, Base: 2
Result:log2(8) = 3

2^3 = 8, so the logarithm base 2 of 8 is 3.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a natural logarithm (ln)?

The natural logarithm uses Euler's number e (approximately 2.71828) as its base. It is widely used in calculus, compound growth problems, and scientific calculations.

Why can't I take the logarithm of zero or a negative number?

In the real number system, there is no exponent you can raise a positive base to that results in zero or a negative number. Logarithms of non-positive values are only defined in the complex number system.