1 The logarithmic function 2

1.1 Overview
Let’s say that you were asked to
multiply 167 893 by the square root
of 283.983.
Chances are that the first thing
that you would do is reach for your
calculator. But what if you did not
have a calculator — could you still do
it? And how long would it take you?
Before small hand-held electronic
calculators were developed in
the early 1970s, calculations that could
not be quickly done with pencil, paper
and mental arithmetic were performed
using a device called a slide rule.
Invented in the early seventeenth

A normal ruler is marked with numbers that form a linear scale, with the marks for 1, 2 … 30 cm being
century, a slide rule is essentially a ruler with a sliding central section.

equally spaced. In contrast, each of the three ruler sections of a slide rule is marked with numbers that form
logarithmic scales. In this type of scale, there are equal distances between the marks for 1, 10, 100, 1000 and
so on.
Calculations were done by using a table of logarithms to identify the base 10 logarithms of the numbers
you wanted to manipulate, sliding the central scale relative to one of the fixed outer scales until the
appropriate numbers lined up with the cursor (a red line fitted in a sliding window), reading a number from
a third scale and then using the logarithm table to determine your actual answer.
Sounds like a lot more work than just pressing a few buttons on your calculator, doesn’t it?
Yet, with practice, a slide rule (with a log table, a pencil and a piece of paper) can be used to perform
calculations in nearly the same time.

LEARNING SEQUENCE
1.1 Overview
1.2 Review of the index laws
1.3 Logarithmic laws and equations
1.4 Logarithmic scales
1.5 Indicial equations
1.6 Logarithmic graphs
1.7 Applications
1.8 Review: exam practice
Fully worked solutions for this chapter are available in the Resources section of your eBookPLUS at
www.jacplus.com.au.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 1

1.2 Review of the index laws
As you may recall from your earlier studies, a number in index form has two parts: the base and the index
(also called the logarithm, power or exponent). Such numbers are written as shown:

Index, logarithm,
power or exponent
ax

Base

The ways in which combinations of numbers written in index form are treated are described by a set of
index laws.

The index laws

1. When numbers with the same base are multiplied, the indices are added.

ax × ay = ax+y

2. When numbers with the same base are divided, the indices are subtracted.

ax ÷ ay = ax−y

= ax−y
ax
or
ay

3. When numbers with an index or exponent are raised to another index or exponent, the

(ax ) y = axy
indices are multiplied.

4. When numbers have an index of 0, the answer is 1.

a0 = 1

5. When a number has a negative index, it becomes a fraction with a positive index.

a−x = = ax
1 1
a−x
and
ax
6. When a number has a fractional index, the denominator of the fraction becomes the root.

ay = ay = ay =
1 √ x √ x (√ )x
y y y
a and ax or a

WORKED EXAMPLE 1

× 3 xy4
( )3 ( )2

6x4 × 2xy4
2x2 y3
Simplify .

2 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 (2x2 y3 )3 × 3(xy4 )2 23 x6 y9 × 3x2 y8
THINK WRITE

=
6x4 × 2xy4
1. Remove the brackets by multiplying the indices.
12x5 y4
=
24x8 y17
2. Add the indices of x and add the indices of y. Simplify 23
to 8 and multiply the whole numbers. 12x5 y4

3. Subtract the indices of x and y. Divide 24 by 12. = 2x3 y13

For negative indices and fractional or decimal indices, the same rules apply.

WORKED EXAMPLE 2
Write the following in simplest form.
32−0.4
2
a. 64 3 b.

= ax . 64 3 =
THINK WRITE
x √
y
2 √
3
a. 1. Rewrite using the index law ay a. 642
2. Rewrite using ax = =
√ (√ )x (√3
)2
y y

= 42
a . 64

= 16
3. Simplify by taking the cube root of 64.
4. Square 4.

32−0.4 =
1
b. 1. Write as a fraction with a positive index. b.
320.4

=
4 1
2. Change 0.4 to . 4
10
32 10

=
1
3. Simplify the fractional index. 2
32 5

Rewrite using the index law a y = = (√ )2

x √
y 1
4. ax .
5
32

=
1
5. Simplify by taking the 5th root of 32.
22
=
1
6. Square 2.
4

WORKED EXAMPLE 3

−1
Simplify the following, leaving your answers with positive indices.
⎛ 12 −1 ⎞ ⎛ − 23 2 ⎞
a. a−2 b × a3 b b. ⎜ −1 2 ⎟ ÷
2
( −4 )−1
4 a b ⎜ 3a b ⎟
⎜3 b ⎟ ⎜ 3 1 ⎟
⎝ ⎠ ⎝ a4 b2 ⎠

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 3

 a−2 b4 × (a3 b−4 )−1 = a−2 b4 × a3 b4
THINK WRITE

= a−5 b8
a. 1. Remove the brackets by multiplying the indices. a.

2. Add the indices of a and of b.

=
b8
3. Place a5 in the denominator with a positive index.
a5
−1
⎛ 12 −1 ⎞ ⎛ − 23 2 ⎞
÷⎜ 3 1 ⎟
2
a b ⎟ 3a b
⎜ 3−1 b2 ⎟
b. 1. Remove the brackets by multiplying the indices. b. ⎜
⎜ ⎟
⎝ ⎠ ⎝ a4 b2 ⎠
−1
a 2 b 32 a−3 b4
= −2 ÷ 3
3b
a2 b

−1
= −2 × −3 4
3
a 2b a2 b
2. When dividing by a fraction, invert and multiply.
3b 9a b
=
ab2
27a−3 b2
3. Add the indices of a and of b in the numerator and
add the indices of b in the denominator. Multiply
the numbers.
=
a4
4. Subtract the indices of a and b.
27

WORKED EXAMPLE 4

3n × 6n+1 × 12n−1
32n × 8n
Simplify .

3n × 6n+1 × 12n−1
THINK WRITE

32n × 8n
1. Write each number as the product of prime factors.

3 × (3 × 2)n+1 × 22 × 3
=
n
( )n−1

32n × 23n
3n × 3n+1 × 2n+1 × 22n−2 × 3n−1
=
32n × 23n
2. Remove the brackets.

33n × 23n−1
=
32n × 23n
3. Add the indices of numbers with base 3 in the
numerator and add indices of numbers with base 2

= 3n × 2−1
in the numerator.
4. Subtract the indices.

= 3n ×
1
5. Write the term with a negative index in the
denominator with a positive index. 2

=
3n
6. Simplify.
2

4 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 Index laws can be applied in many situations, such as in exponential modelling. A simple example of an
exponential model is presented in the following worked example.

WORKED EXAMPLE 5
An antique chair worth $15 000 is increasing

a. Write an equation for the value of the chair, $v, in terms

in value by 10% each year.

of the time, t, in years.

b. Hence, find the value of the chair after 10 years.
Give your answer correct to the nearest
hundred dollars.

The chair appreciates by (100 + 10) %

THINK WRITE
a. 1. Find by what percentage the chair appreciates each a.
year. or 110%.
110% =
110
2. Write this as a decimal.

= 1.1
100

$ (15 000 × 1.1)

3. Find the value after 1 year. After 1 year it is worth

= $16 500

$ (15( 000 × 1.1) × (1.1)

4. Find the value after 2 years. After 2 years it is worth

= $ 15 000 × 1.12
)

= $18 150

$ 15 000 × 1.13 = $19 965

5. Find the value after 3 year. After
( 3 years it is) worth

6. Hence, find the formula. v = 15 000 × 1.1t

Substitute t = 10 in the equation. v = 15 000 × 1.110

Note: A formula does not include the dollar sign.

= 15 000 × 2.593 742 5

b. 1. b.

= 38 906.138 ≈ 38 900 (to the

2. Evaluate 1.110 .
3. Calculate v and express your answer correct to the
nearest hundred dollars. nearest 100)

about $38 900.

4. Write your answer in a sentence. The value of the chair after 10 years is

Units 3 & 4 Area 1 Sequence 1 Concept 1 Review of the index laws Summary screen and practice questions

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 5

Exercise 1.2 Review of the index laws
Technology free

a. x × x4 b. x7 ÷ x2
1. Simplify the following.
x−3
WE1
( 2 )5 ( )2

x × x5
3

5x2 y4 × 4x5 y 3x3 y5 × 10xy4

x
x4 × x5
c. d.
( 2 )3
e. f. ( 5 )2 g. h.
x3 22 x3 y2 5x2 y6
2xy × 5 x y 3 x y × 2 xy3
x
( 2 )3 ( 4 )2 ( 2 3 )2 ( )5

4x5 y3 × 3x2 y3 4x4 y2 × 3x5 y

i. j.

−3
2. Simplify the following without using a calculator.
−3
WE2
2 3
a. 27 3 b. 16 4 c. 25 2 d. 100 000 5

( )1 ( )2
9 2 27 3
e. 810.25 f. 361.5 g. h.
49 64
( )− 3 ( )− 3
243 5 256 4
i. j.
32 81

a. 3x−3 y2 × x2 y b. x4 y−1 × x−2 y3

( )−4 )−1
3. WE3 Simplify the following, leaving your answers with positive indices.
(

c. 2x y × 9x y d. 5x y × 8 x y
−1 3 1 2 −1 2
( )1 ( )
1 2 3 2
2 3 2 2 3 4 3 3 2

)− 3 ( )− 1 (
× 9x 5 y 2 × 4x 5 y 2
−1 −1 2 −1
( )5 ( )1
−2 2
1 2 1 2 2 2 1 2
e. x y f. 16 2 x5 y 4
−2 −2
⎛ 32 −2 ⎞ ⎛ − 32 34 ⎞
9a−3 b
÷ 3 ⎜ −1 2 ⎟ ÷
3
⎛ 32 3 ⎞ ( )1
a b c ⎟ a b a b ⎟ 2
g. ⎜ h. ⎜
⎜ − 1 −2 ⎟ ⎜a c ⎟ ⎜ ab2 ⎟ 4a2 b3
⎝ 3a 2 bc ⎠ ⎝ ⎠ ⎝ ⎠

2n × 4n+1 × 8n−1 3n × 9n−1 × 27n+1 c. 2n−1 × 3n × 6n+1

4. WE4 Simplify the following.

32 × 2−3 52 × 3−1
a. b.

d. 2n × 3n+1 × 9n × ÷
125 × 9
27
−2
e.
3
16 f.
5
92

a. x−1 + b. x−1 + x−2

5. Simplify the following, writing your answers as single fractions with positive indices.
1 ( )2
−1

+ −1 d. 2x x2 − y2 − (x − y)−1
)−1
x

x +1 x −1
1 1 (
−1
c.

6. If a = 23 , b = 2−3 , c = 62 and d = 3−1 , determine:

a 3 b−1 d
1
a2 b
a. b.
1
c2
7. MC 3−x + 3x is equal to:
c2

1 + 32x
C. 3−x
2
A. 1 B. D. 6
3x

6 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

Technology active
8. WE5 A population of organisms is growing

so that the number of organisms, N, after t

N = 500 × 20.1t .
days is given by the formula

a. Determine the number of organisms after

10 days.
b. Determine the size of the population after
15 days. Give your answer to the nearest
whole number.

9. MC A car worth $10 000 is depreciating at

20% per annum, so that each year the car is

model for the value of the car, $V, in terms

worth 80% of its value the previous year. A

V = 10 000 × 20t
of the time, t, in years is:

V = 10 000 × (0.2)t
A.

V = 0.8 × 10 000t
B.

V = 10 000 (0.8)t
C.
D.
10. A ball is dropped from a window h m above the
ground. When it lands on the ground it rebounds
to 80% of its height. The equation showing the

h = 10 × (0.8)r .
height of the ball, h metres, after r rebounds is

a. From how far above the ground was the ball dropped?
b. How far above the ground does the ball reach on the fourth rebound? Give your answer to the nearest
centimetre.
c. What is the total vertical distance that the ball travelled when it hits the ground for the fourth time?

1.3 Logarithmic laws and equations

1.3.1 Writing numbers in logarithmic form
The number 81 can be written as:

81 = 34

That is, given the base 3 and the exponent 4, we can find the number 81 by calculating 3 × 3 × 3 × 3.
Note, however, that we need a calculator to compute 34.5 :

140.296 = 34.5
34 gives 140.296.

What do we do if we are given the number and the base, but need to find the power or exponent?

100 = 10x

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 7

 In this case, an easy calculation shows that 100 = 102 .
However, how do we find x in an equation such as the following?

200 = 10x

If 200 = 10x
This is where logarithms are useful.

then x = log10 200

= 2.301 (from calculator)
In general, if N = ax
then x = loga N.
So, a number written in index form as

↓
Exponent, index or power
Base number → 102 = 100

becomes

log10 100 = 2 ← Exponent, index or power

↑
Base number

when written in logarithmic form.

loga N, a > 0 and N > 0. For any other values, the logarithm is not defined.
Logarithms can only be used when the base number and the exponent are positive numbers; that is, for

1.3.2 Natural logarithms

Any number, provided that it is positive, can be used as the base number. A natural logarithm is one which
uses Euler’s number (written as e) as its base number.
Named for 18th-century Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler (pronounced ‘oiler’), Euler’s number is the
base number for many processes and formations in nature that can be described logarithmically, such as the
decay of radioactive isotopes, the structure of a spiral galaxy or even the arrangement of leaves on a plant.

Euler’s number
Like 𝜋, e is an irrational number. It can be found by evaluating the expression 1 +
( )n
1
for
n
increasing values of n:

n=1 1+ = 1+ =2
( )n ( )1
1 1
n 1

n=2 1+ = 1+ = 2.25
( )n ( )2
1 1
n 2

n=3 1+ = 1+ = 2.370 37
( )n ( )3
1 1
n 3

n=5 1+ = 1+ = 2.488 32
( )n ( )5
1 1
n 5

8 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 n = 10 1 + = 1+ = 2.593 74
( )n ( )10
1 1
n 10

n = 100 1 + = 1+ = 2.704 81
( )n ( )100
1 1
n 100

n = 1000 1 + = 1+ = 2.716 92
( )n ( )1000
1 1
n 1000

n = 10 000 1 + = 1+ = 2.718 15
( )n ( )10 000
1 1
n 10 000

1+
( )n
1
As n increases, becomes closer and closer to 2.718 281 or e.
n
e = lim 1 +
( )n
1
n→∞ n

N = ex
Using a base e, if

x = loge (N) (this can also be written as x = ln (N)).

then

1.3.3 The logarithmic laws

1. am × an = am+n ⇔ loga (m) + loga (n) = loga (mn)
The indicial laws can be used to derive the logarithmic laws.

Let x = loga (m) and y = loga (n).

To prove this law:

So ax = m and ay = n.
Now am × an = am+n .
Thus, mn = ax + ay = ax+y .
By applying the definition of a logarithm to this statement, we get

loga (mn) = x + y

or loga (mn) = loga (m) + loga (n).

2. a ÷ a = a ⇔ loga (m) − loga (n) = loga

( )
m n m−n m
n

Let x = loga (m) and y = loga (n).

To prove this law:

So ax = m and ay = n.

= ax−y .
ax
Now

Thus, = y = ax−y .
ay
m ax
n a

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 9

 By converting the equation into logarithm form, we get

=x−y
( )
m
loga
n

= loga (m) − loga (n).

( )
m
or loga
n

3. (am )n = amn ⇔ loga (mn ) = n loga (m)

Note: Before the first or second law can be applied, each logarithmic term must have a coefficient of 1.

Let x = loga (m).

To prove this law:

So ax = m.
Now (ax )n = mn
or anx = mn .
By converting the equation into logarithm form, we have

loga (mn ) = nx

or loga (mn ) = n loga (m).

4. As a0 = 1, then by the definition of a logarithm, loga (1) = 0.

Applying these laws, we can also see the following:

5. As a1 = a, then by the definition of a logarithm, loga (a) = 1.

6. ax > 0; therefore, loga (0) is undefined, and loga (x) is defined only for x > 0 and a ∈ R+ \ {1}.

aloga m = m.
Another important fact related to the definition of a logarithm is
( )

Let y = aloga (m) .

This can be proved as follows:

loga (y) = loga (m).

Converting index form to logarithm form, we have

Consequently, aloga m = m.
( )

1. loga (m) + loga (n) = loga (mn)

The logarithm laws

2. loga (m) – loga (n) = loga

( )
m

3. loga (mn ) = n loga (m)

n

4. loga (1) = 0
5. loga (a) = 1
6. loga (0) = undefined
7. loga (x) is defined for x > 0 and a ∈ R+ \ {1}.
8. aloga m = m
( )

WORKED EXAMPLE 6

a. log10 (5) + log10 (2)

(√ −) log4 (5)
Simplify the following without a calculator.
b. log4 (20)
5
c. log2 (16) d. log5 x

10 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 Rewrite using loga (mn) = loga (m) + loga (n). log10 (5) + log10 (2) = log10 (5 × 2)
THINK WRITE

= log10 (10)
a. 1. a.

Simplify using loga (a) = 1. =1

2. Simplify.
3.

= loga (m) − loga (n). b. log4 (20) − log4 (5) = log4

( ) ( )
m 20
b. 1. Rewrite using loga

= log4 (4)
n 5

Simplify using loga (a) = 1. =1

2. Simplify.

log2 (16) = log2 (24 )

3.

Rewrite 16 as a number with base 2.

Rewrite using loga (mp ) = p loga (m). = 4 log2 (2)
c. 1. c.

Simplify using loga (a) = 1. =4×1

2.

=4
3.

a= x = log5 x 5
(√ ) ( )
√
x
1
5
1
d. 1. Rewrite using ay . d. log5

Rewrite using loga (mp ) = p loga (m). =

1
2. log5 (x)
5

WORKED EXAMPLE 7

2 + log10 (3) 3 log3 (6) − 3 log3 (18)

Simplify the following.
log3 (9)
a. b. c.
log3 (27)

2 + log10 (3) = 2 log10 (10) + log10 (3)

THINK WRITE

log10 (10) = 1.
a. 1. Write 2 as 2 log10 (10) because a.

2. Rewrite using loga (mp ) = p loga (m). = log10 (102 ) + log10 (3)
= log10 (102 × 3)
loga (mn) = loga (m) + loga (n).
3. Rewrite using

4. Write 102 as 100. = log10 (100 × 3)

= log10 (300)
Rewrite using loga (mp ) = p loga (m). 3 log3 (6) − 3 log3 (18) = log3 (63 ) − log3 (183 )
5. Multiply the numbers in the brackets.
b. 1. b.

= log3
( 3 )
6
Rewrite
( using
= loga (m) − loga (n).
2. )
m 183
loga
6×6×6
Write 6 as 6 × 6 × 6 and 18 as = log3
n ( )

18 × 18 × 18. 18 × 18 × 18
3 3
3.

= log3
( )
1
4. Simplify.
= log3 (3 )
−3
33

6. Rewrite using loga (mp ) = p loga (m). = −3 log3 (3)

5. Write the number with base 3.

7. Simplify using loga (a) = 1. = −3 × 1

= −3

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 11

 =
log3 (9) log3 (32 )
c. 1. Write the numbers with the same base. It c.
is not possible to cancel the 9 and the log3 (27) log3 (33 )
27 because they cannot be separated

Rewrite using loga (mp ) = p loga (m). =

from the log.
2 log3 (3)
2.

=
3 log3 (3)
2
3. Cancel the logs because they are the same.
3

1.3.4 Solving logarithmic equations

loga x is defined only for x > 0 and a ∈ R+ \ {1}, always check the validity of your solution.
Solving logarithmic equations involves the use of the logarithm laws as well as converting to index form. As

WORKED EXAMPLE 8

a. loge (3) = loge (x) b. loge (x) + loge (3) = loge (6)
Solve the following for x, giving your answer correct to 3 decimal places where appropriate.

loge (3) = loge (x)

THINK WRITE

x=3
a. Since the base is the same, equate the numbers. a.

Rewrite using loge (mn) = loge (m) + loge (n). b. loge (x) + loge (3) = loge (6)
loge (3x) = loge (6)
b. 1.

3x = 6
x=2
2. Equate the number parts.
3. Solve for x.

TI | THINK WRITE CASIO | THINK WRITE

b. 1. On a Calculator page, b. 1. On a Main Menu screen,
press select Equation.
MENU then select:
3: Algebra
1: Numerical Solve.

2. Complete the entry 2. On an Equation screen,

(ln(x) + ln(3) =
line as: select Solver by pressing
F3.
ln(6), x)
Then press the
ENTER button.

3. The answer appears 3. Complete the entry line

ln(x) + ln(3) = ln(6), x

on the screen. as:
( )

When the equation has

been entered, press the
SOLVE button.

12 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 4. The answer appears on
the screen.

WORKED EXAMPLE 9

a. log4 (64) = x log2 (3x) + 3 = log2 (x − 2)

Solve the following equations for x.

c. log2 (x) = 3 − 2 log2 (x) d. log2 (2x) + log2 (x + 2) = log2 (6)

b.
( )2

log4 (64) = x
THINK WRITE

4x = 64
a. 1. Convert the equation into index form. a.

4x = 43
∴x = 3
2. Convert 64 to base 4 and evaluate.

Rewrite 3 in log form, given log2 (2) = 1. log2 (3x) + 3 = log2 (x − 2)

log2 (3x) + 3 log2 (2) = log2 (x − 2)
b. 1. b.

Apply the law loga (mn ) = n loga (m). log2 (3x) + log2 (23 ) = log2 (x − 2)
log2 (3x × 8) = log2 (x − 2)
2.

loga (mn) = loga (m) + loga (n).

3. Simplify the left-hand side by applying

24x = x − 2
23x = −2
4. Equate the logs and simplify.

x=−
2

log2 (x) = 3 − 2 log2 (x)

23
( )2

Let a = log2 (x) and rewrite the equation in terms Let a = log2 (x).
c. 1. Identify the quadratic form of the log equation. c.

a2 = 3 − 2a
a2 + 2a − 3 = 0 (a − 1) (a + 3) = 0
of a.

a = 1, −3
2. Solve the quadratic.

Substitute in a = log2 (x) and solve for x. log2 (x) = 1 log2 (x) = −3
x = 21 x = 2−3
3.

∴ x = 2,
1

d. log2 (2x) + log2 (x + 2) = log2 (6)

8

loga (mn) = loga (m) + loga (n) . log2 (2x(x + 2)) = log2 (6)
d. 1. Simplify the left-hand side by applying

2x(x + 2) = 6
2x2 + 4x − 6 = 0
2. Equate the logs and solve for x.

x2 + 2x − 3 = 0
(x − 1) (x + 3) = 0
x = 1, −3
x = −3 is not valid, as x > 0.
∴x=1
3. Check the validity of both solutions.
4. Write the answer.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 13

1.3.5 Change of base rule
Although any positive number can be used as the base for a logarithmic or indicial expression, calculators
generally only allow you two options — the standard logarithm, log10 (x), or the natural logarithm, loge (x).

Suppose y = loga (m).

In order to calculate values for bases other than 10 or e, the base must be changed to one of these options.

By definition, ay = m.
Take the logarithm to the same base of both sides.

logb (ay ) = logb (m)

y logb (a) = logb (m)

y=
logb (m)
logb (a)

Change the base

loga (m) =
logb (m)
logb (a)

WORKED EXAMPLE 10
a. Evaluate the following, correct to 4 decimal places.
i. log7 (5) ii. log 1 (11)

If p = log5 (x), find the following in terms of p.

3
b.
i. x ii. logx (81)

THINK WRITE

log7 (5) = = 0.8271

log10 (5)
a. i. Apply the change of base rule and calculate. a. i.
log10 (7)

ii. log 1 (11) = ( ) = −2.1827

log10 (11)
ii. Apply the change of base rule and calculate.

b. i. p = log5 (x)
3 log10 31

x = 5p
b. i. Rewrite the logarithm in index form to find an

Rewrite logx (81) using loga (m ) = n loga (m). ii. logx (81) = logx 92
expression for x.
( )

= 2 logx (9)
n
ii. 1.

=2
log9 (9)
2. Apply the change-of-base rule so that x
log9 (x)

=2
is no longer a base.
Note: Although 9 has been chosen as the base 1
in this working, a different value could be log9 (x)
applied, giving a different final answer.
=2
1
loga (mn ) = n loga (m).
3. Replace x with 5p and apply the law
log9 (5p )
=
2
p log9 (5)

14 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 Units 3 & 4 Area 1 Sequence 1 Concept 2
Logarithmic laws and equations Summary screen and practice questions

Exercise 1.3 Logarithmic laws and equations

Technology free

log6 (3) + log6 (2) b. log10 (5) + log10 (2) log3 (6) − log3 (2)
1. WE6Simplify the following without using a calculator.

d. log2 (10) − log2 (5)

a. c.
e. log2 (32) f. log3 (81)
( ) ( )
1 1
g. log5 h. log3
5 27
2. Simplify the
(√ ) following. (√ ) (√ )
3
a. log2 x b. log3 x c. 3 log3 3 x
(√ ) (√ )
(√ ) x4 x5
4 5
d. 4 log4 x e. log2 f. log3
y2 y10

a. 4 log2 (12) − 4 log2 (6) b. 3 log2 (3) − 3 log2 (6)

3. WE7 Simplify the following without using a calculator.

c. 2 + log5 (10) − log5 (2) d. 2 + log5 (2) − log5 (10)

e. 1 + log2 (5) f. 3 + log3 (2)
log2 (64) log5 (125)
g. h.
log2 (8) log5 (25)
(√ )
( )
loga x loga x2
i. j. ( )
loga (x) loga x3

a. 5 log3 (x) + log3 (x2 ) − log3 (x7 ) 3 log2 (x) + log2 (x3 ) − log2 (x6 )
4. Simplify without using a calculator.

c. 3 log4 (x) − 5 log4 (x) + 2 log4 (x) d. 4 log6 (x) − 5 log6 (x) + log6 (x)
b.

e. log10 (x2 ) + 3 log10 (x) − 2 log10 (x) f. 4 log10 (x) − log10 (x) + log10 (x2 )
g. log5 (x + 1) + log5 (x + 1) h. log4 (x − 2) − 2 log4 (x − 2)
2 3

5. WE8 Solve the following for x. Give exact answers when appropriate; otherwise, give answers correct to

a. loge (x) = loge (2) b. loge (x) = loge (5) c. loge (x) + loge (3) = loge (9)
3 decimal places.

d. loge (x) + loge (2) = loge (8) e. loge (x) − loge (5) = loge (2) f. loge (x) − loge (4) = loge (3)
g. 1 + loge (x) = loge (6) h. 1 − loge (x) = loge (7) i. loge (4) − loge (x) = loge (2)
j. loge (5) − loge (x) = loge (25)

a. log5 (125) = x log4 (x − 1) + 2 = log4 (x + 4)

6. WE9 Solve the following for x.

c. 3 log2 (x) − 2 = 5 log2 (x) log5 (4x) + log5 (x − 3) = log5 (7)

b.
( )2
d.

a. log3 (x) = 5 log3 (x − 2) − log3 (5 − x) = 2

7. Solve the following for x.
b.
8. a. WE10 Evaluate the following, correct to 4 decimal places. ( )
1
log7 (12) ii. log3

If z = log3 (x), find the following in terms of z.

i.
4
b.
i. 2x ii. logx (27)

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 15

Technology active
9. Rewrite the following in terms of base 10.
a. log5 (9) b. log 1 (12)
2

a. 63 = 216 b. 28 = 256 34 = 81
10. Express each of the following in logarithmic form.

d. 10−4 = 0.0001 e. 5−3 = 0.008 71 = 7

c.
f.

log3 (81) = x =x
11. Find the value of x. ()
1
b. log6

logx (121) = 2 d. log2 (−x) = 7

a.
216
c.

a. log2 (256 + log2 (64) − log2 (128) 5 log7 (49) − 5 log7 (343)
12. Simplify the following.
b.
(√ ) ( )
6 1 16
c. log4 64
d. log4
256
(√ )
log5 (32) 6 log2 3 x
e. f. ( )
3 log5 (16) log2 x5

a. log3 (x − 4) + log3 (x − 4) log7 (2x + 3)3 − 2 log7 (2x + 3)

13. Simplify the following.

c. log5 x + log5 x − 5 log5 (x) d. log4 (5x + 1) + log4 (5x + 1) − log4 (5x + 1)
2
b.
( 2) ( 3) 3 2

14. Evaluate the following, correct to 4 decimal places. ( )

1
log3 (7) log2
If n = log5 (x), find the following in terms of n.
a. b.
121
15.
( )
a. 5x b. log5 5x2 c. logx (625)
16. Solve the following for x.

loge (2x − 1) = −3 =3
( )
1
a. b. loge

log3 (4x − 1) = 3 log10 (x) − log10 (3) = log10 (5)

x

e. 3 log10 (x) + 2 = 5 log10 (x) log10 x2 − log10 (x + 2) = log10 (x + 3)

c. d.
( )

g. 2 log5 (x) − log5 (2x − 3) = log5 (x − 2) log10 (2x) − log10 (x − 1) = 1

f.

i. log3 (x) + 2 log3 (4) − log3 (2) = log3 (10) log10 (x) log10 x2 − 5 log10 (x) + 3 = 0
h.
( )( ( ))

k. log3 x = log3 (x) + 2 log6 (x − 3) + log6 (x + 2) = 1

j.
( )2
l.

a. log10 (y) = 2 log10 (2) − 3 log10 (x) log4 (y) = −2 + 2 log4 (x)
17. Express y in terms of x for the following equations.
b.

c. log9 (3xy) = 1.5 + 2 = log8 (2)

( )
2x
d. log8

a. Find the value of x in terms of m for which 3 logm (x) = 3 + logm 27, where m > 0 and x > 0.
y
18.
( )
b. If log10 (m) = x and log10 (n) = y, show that log10 =2+ − 5x.
100n2 3y
√
Solve the equation 8 logx (4) = log2 (x) for x.
m5 n 2
19.

a. e2x − 3 = loge (2x + 1) b. x2 − 1 = loge (x)

20. Solve the following for x, correct to 3 decimal places.

Find x, correct to 4 decimal places, if 3 log3 (x) 5 log3 (x) = 11 log3 (x) − 2.
( )( )
21.

16 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

1.4 Logarithmic scales
Many scientific quantities are measured in terms of scales that are logarithmic rather than linear.
For example, the pH scale used in chemistry to describe the acidity or alkalinity of a substance ranges
from 1 for very strong acids through to 7 for neutral substances such as water, up to a pH of 14 for very
strong bases or alkalis. This scale is based upon the concentration of hydrogen ions. A substance that has
pH 5 is ten times more acidic than one that has a pH of 6, and has ten times the concentration of hydrogen
ions. An acid with pH 3 has 10 000 times the acidity of water (pH 7).

• the Richter scale, which describes the amount of energy released by the seismic waves of earthquakes
Other examples of logarithmic scales include:

• loudness of sound as a function of the sound’s intensity

in terms of magnitude

• the frequencies of musical notes

• the intensity of the brightness of stars.

WORKED EXAMPLE 11

found using the formula B = 6 − 2.5 log10 A,

The apparent brightness, B of a star can be

where A is the actual brightness of that

star. Find the apparent brightness of a
star with actual brightness of 3.16.

B = 6 − 2.5 log10 (A)

THINK WRITE

When A = 3.16,
1. Write the formula.

B = 6 − 2.5 log10 (3.16)

2. Substitute 3.16 for A.

= 6 − 2.5 × 0.5
= 4.75
3. Evaluate log10 (3.16) using a graphics calculator.
4. Simplify.
5. Write your answer in a sentence. The apparent brightness of the star is 4.75.

WORKED EXAMPLE 12
Loudness, L, in decibels (dB), is related to the intensity, I, of a sound by the equation

L = 10 log10
( )
I
I0

where I0 is equal to 10−12 watts per square metre W/m2 . (This value is the lowest intensity of
( )

sound that can be heard by human ears.)

a. An ordinary conversation has a loudness of 60 dB. Calculate the intensity in W/m2 .
b. If the intensity is doubled, what is the change in the loudness, correct to 2 decimal places?

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 17

 THINK WRITE

Substitute L = 60 and simplify. a. L = 10 log10

( )
I
a. 1.
I0

60 = 10 log10
( )
I
10−12
60 = 10 log10 (1012 I)
6 = log10 (1012 I)
106 = 1012 I
I = 10−6 W/m(2
2. Convert the logarithm to index
form and solve for I.

L1 = 10 log10
)
I1
10−12
b. 1. Determine an equation for L1 . b.

= 10 log10 1012 I1
( )

= 10 log10 1012 + 10 log10 (I1 )

( )

= 120 log10 (10) + 10 log10 (I1 )

= 120 + 10(log10 (I)
L2 = 10 log10
1)
2I1
therefore, I2 = 2I1 . Determine 10−12
2. The intensity has doubled;

= 10 log10 (2 × 1012 I1 )
= 10 log10 (2) + 10 log10 (1012 ) + 10 log10 (I1 )
an equation for L2 .

= 3.010 + 120 log10 (10) + 10 log10 (I1 )

= 3.01 + 120 + 10 log10 (I1 )
3. Replace 120 + 10 log10 (I1 ) = 3.01 + L1
with L1 .
Answer the question. Doubling the intensity increases the loudness by 3.01 dB.

Units 3 & 4 Area 1 Sequence 1 Concept 3 Logarithmic scales Summary screen and practice questions

Exercise 1.4 Logarithmic scales

Technology active
1. WE12 The loudness, L, of a jet taking off about 30 metres away
is known to be 130 dB. Using the formula L = 10 log10
( )
I
,
I0
where I is the intensity measured in W/m2 and I0 is equal to
10−12 W/m2 , calculate the intensity in W/m2 for this situation.

18 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

2. The moment magnitude scale measures the magnitude,
M, of an earthquake in terms of energy released, E, in
joules, according to the formula

M = 0.67 log10
( )
E
K

where K is the minimum amount of energy used as a basis

of comparison.
An earthquake that measures 5.5 on the moment
magnitude scale releases 1013 joules of energy. Find the
value of K, correct to the nearest integer.
3. Two earthquakes, about 10 kilometres apart, occurred in Iran on 11 August 2012. One measured 6.3 on
the moment magnitude scale, and the other was 6.4 on the same scale. Use the formula from question 2 to
compare the energy released, in joules, by the two earthquakes.
4. An earthquake of magnitude 9.0 occurred in Japan in 2011, releasing about 1017 joules of energy. Use the
formula from question 2 to find the value of K correct to 2 decimal places.
5. To the human ear, how many decibels louder is a 500 W/m2 amplifier compared to a 20 W/m2 model?
Use the formula L = 10 log10
( )
I
, where L is measured in dB, I is measured in W/m2 and

I0 = 10−12 W/m2 . Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.

I0

6. Your eardrum can be ruptured if it is exposed to a noise that has an intensity of 104 W/m2 . Using the
formula L = 10 log10
( )
, where I is the intensity measured in W/m2 and I0 is equal to 10−12 W/m2 ,
I
I0
calculate the loudness, L, in decibels that would cause your eardrum to be ruptured.

Questions 7–9 relate to the following information.

Chemists define the acidity or alkalinity of a substance according to the formula

pH = − log10 H+
[ ]

where H+ is the hydrogen ion concentration measured in moles/litre. Solutions with a pH less than 7 are
[ ]

acidic, whereas solutions with a pH greater than 7 are basic. Solutions with a pH of 7, such as pure water,
are neutral.
7. Lemon juice has a hydrogen ion concentration of 0.001 moles/litre. Find the pH and determine whether
lemon juice is acidic or basic.
8. Find the hydrogen ion concentration for each of the following.
a. Battery acid has a pH of 0. b. Tomato juice has a pH of 4.
c. Sea water has a pH of 8. d. Soap has a pH of 12.
9. Hair conditioner works on hair in the following way. Hair is com-
posed of the protein called keratin, which has a high percentage of
amino acids. These acids are negatively charged. Shampoo is also
negatively charged. When shampoo removes dirt, it removes natural
oils and positive charges from the hair. Positively charged surfac-
tants in hair conditioner are attracted to the negative charges in the
hair, so the surfactants can replace the natural oils.
a. A brand of hair conditioner has a hydrogen ion concentration of
0.000 015 8 moles/litre. Calculate the pH of the hair conditioner.
b. A brand of shampoo has a hydrogen ion concentration of 0.000 002 75 moles/litre. Calculate the pH
of the shampoo.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 19

 “c01TheLogarithmicFunction2_print” — 2019/7/31 — 20:01 — page 20 — #20

10. The number of atoms of a radioactive substance present after t years is given by

N (t) = N0 e−mt .

The half-life is the time taken for the number of atoms to be reduced to 50% of the initial number of
a.
loge (2)
atoms. Show that the half-life is given by .
m
b. Radioactive carbon-14 has a half-life of 5750 years. The percentage of carbon-14 present in the
remains of plants and animals is used to determine how old the remains are. How old is a skeleton
that has lost 70% of its carbon-14 atoms? Give your answer correct to the nearest year.
11. A basic observable quantity for a star is its brightness. The apparent magnitudes m1 and m2 for two stars
are related to the corresponding brightnesses, b1 and b2 , by the equation
( )
b1
m2 − m1 = 2.5 log10 .
b2

The star Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky. It has an apparent magnitude of −1.5 and a
brightness of −30.3. The planet Venus has an apparent magnitude of −4.4. Calculate the brightness of
Venus, correct to 2 decimal places.
12. Octaves in music can be measured in cents, n. The frequen-
cies of two notes, f1 and f2 , are related by the equation
( )
f
n = 1200 log10 2 .
f1

Middle C on the piano has a frequency of 256 hertz; the

C an octave higher has a frequency of 512 hertz. Calculate the
number of cents between these two Cs. C D E F G A B
13. Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels can cause
( )
hearing damage or loss. A gunshot from a 0.22 rifle has an intensity of about 2.5 × 1013 I0 .
Calculate the loudness, in decibels, of the gunshot sound and state if ear protection should be worn
( )
I
when a person goes to a rifle range for practice shooting. Use the formula L = 10 log10 , where I0
I0
is equal to 10−12 W/m2 , and give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.
14. Early in the 20th century, San Francisco had an earth-
quake that measured 8.3 on the magnitude scale.
In the same year, another earthquake was recorded
in South America that was four times stronger
than the one in San Francisco. Using the equation
( )
E
M = 0.67 log10 , calculate the magnitude of the
K
earthquake in South America, correct to 1 decimal
place.

20 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

1.5 Indicial equations
When we solve an indicial equation such as 3x = 81, the technique is to convert both sides of the equation
An indicial equation is an equation in which the power or index contains the unknown.

to the same base. For example, 3x = 34 ; therefore, x = 4.

When we solve an equation such as x3 = 27, we write both sides of the equation with the same index. In
this case, x3 = 33 ; therefore, x = 3.
If an equation such as 52x = 2 is to be solved, then we must use logarithms, as the sides of the equation
cannot be converted to the same base or index. To remove x from the power, we take the logarithm of both
sides.

log5 52x = log5 (2)

( )

2x = log5 (2)

x = log5 (2)
1
2

1. If ax = b, a solution for x exists only if b > 0.

Notes:

log10 2
2. log5 2 can be calculated using a graphics calculator or as using a standard calculator.
log10 5

WORKED EXAMPLE 13

a. 4 ×16 = 256 −3=0

Solve the following equations for x, giving your answers in exact form.

c. (5 − 25)(5 + 1) = 0 d. 3 − 9 (3x ) + 14 = 0
3x 3−x x−3
b. 7
x x 2x

43x × 163−x = 256

THINK WRITE

43x × (42 )3−x = 44

a. 1. Convert the numbers to the same base. a.

43x × 46−2x = 44
4x+6 = 44
2. Simplify and add the indices on the

x+6=4
left-hand side of the equation.

x = −2
3. As the bases are the same, equate the

−3=0
indices and solve the equation.

7x−3 = 3
x−3
b. 1. Rearrange the equation. b. 7

log7 7x−3 = log7 (3)

( )

x − 3 = log7 (3)
2. Take the logarithm of both sides to base
7 and simplify.
Solve the equation. x = log7 (3) + 3
(5x − 25)(5x + 1) = 0
3.

5x − 25 = 0 5x + 1 = 0
c. 1. Apply the Null Factor Law to solve each c.
bracket.
5x = 25 5x = −1
or

Convert 25 to base 5. 5x > 0, so there is 5x = 52

no real solution for 5x = −1. x=2
2.

d. 1. Let a = 3x and substitute into the d. 3 − 9 (3 ) + 14 = 0

Let a = 3x .
2x x

a2 − 9a + 14 = 0
equation to create a quadratic to solve.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 21

 (a − 7) (a − 2) = 0
a − 7 = 0 or a − 2 = 0
2. Factorise the left-hand side.

a=7 a = 2
3. Apply the Null Factor Law to solve each

3 = 7 or 3 = 2
bracket for a.

log3 (3 ) = log3 (7) log3 (3x ) = log3 (2)

x x
4. Substitute back in for a.

x = log3 (7) x = log3 (2)

x
5. Take the logarithm of both sides to base
3 and simplify.

TI | THINK WRITE CASIO | THINK WRITE

a.1. On a Calculator page, a.1. On an Equation screen,
press MENU then select Solver by pressing
select: F3.
3: Algebra
1: Numerical Solve.

2. Complete the entry 2. Complete the entry line

43x × 163−x = 256

line as: as:

(43x × 163−x = 256, x)

nSolve
When the equation has
Then press the been entered, press the
ENTER button. SOLVE button.

3. The answer appears 3. The answer appears on

on the screen. the screen.

WORKED EXAMPLE 14
A tennis ball is dropped from a height of 100 cm,
bounces and rebounds to 80% of its previous height.

the formula h = A × an , where A cm is the height from

The height, h cm, of the ball after n bounces is given by

which the ball is dropped and a is the percentage of

the height reached by the ball on the previous bounce.
a. Find the values of A and a, and hence write the
formula for h in terms of n.
b. What height will the ball reach after 5 bounces? Give
the answer to 1 decimal place.
c. How many bounces will it take before the ball reaches less than 1 cm?

22 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 A = 100
THINK WRITE
The ball is dropped from a height of A cm.
a = 80% = = 0.8
a. 1. a.
80
2. The percentage of the height reached by the ball on
100
h = A × an h = 100 × (0.8)n
the previous bounce is a.

h = A × an .
3. Substitute the values for A and a into the formula

h = 100 × (0.8)5
= 32.768
b. 1. Substitute 5 for n. b.
2. Evaluate using a calculator.
3. Write your answer in a sentence. The ball bounces to 32.8 cm after

1 = 100 × (0.8)n
5 bounces.

(0.8)n = 0.01
c. 1. Substitute 1 for h. c.

log10 (0.8)n = log10 (0.01)

2. Divide both sides by 100.

Use loga (mp ) = p loga (m) to simplify. n log10 (0.8) = log10 (0.01)
3. Take thet log of both sides to base 10.
4.

n=
log10 (0.01)
5. Divide both sides by log10 (0.8).

= 20.64
log10 (0.8)

≈ 21
6. Evaluate.
7. Bounces must be in whole numbers.
8. After 20 bounces the ball reaches more than 1 cm, The ball reaches less than 1 cm after
but after 21 bounces the ball reaches less than 1 cm 21 bounces.
because it bounces to a smaller and smaller height.
Write the answer in a sentence.

Units 3 & 4 Area 1 Sequence 1 Concept 4 Indicial equations Summary screen and practice questions

Exercise 1.5 Indicial equations

Technology free

32x+1 × 272−x = 81 10(2x−1 −) 5=0 x

1. Solve the following equations for x.
WE13

c. (4x − 16) (4x + 3) = 0 − 7 (10 ) + 3 = 0

a. b.
2x
d. 2 10

a. 2x+3 − 64 = 0 22x − 9 = 0
2. Solve the following equations for x.
1

3e2x − 5ex − 2 = 0 e2x − 5ex = 0

b.

c. d.

a. 72x−1 = 5 (3(x − 9)
) (3 − 1)x = 0
3. Solve the following equations for x.

c. 25x − 5x − 6 = 0 − 19 (9 ) + 10 = 0
x
b.
2x
d. 6 9

a. 16 × 22x+3 = 8−2x 2 × 3x+1 = 4

4. Solve the following equations for x.

c. 2 (5x ) − 12 = − d. 4x+1 = 31−x

b.
10
5x

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 23

 a. 2 2x−1 − 3 + 4 = 0 2 51−2x − 3 = 7
5. Solve( the following
) equations for x. ( )
b.

6. a. Simplify x−1 −
1 − 1+x−1
1
1
.

Solve 23−4x × 3−4x+3 × 6x = 1 for x.

2
b.

ex−2 − 2 = 7 e4 + 1 = 3
7. Solve the following equations for x.
x

c. e2x = 3ex d. ex + 2 = 4
a. b.
2

a. e2x = ex + 12 ex = 12 − 32e−x
8. Solve the following equations for x.

c. e2x − 4 = 2ex d. ex − 12 = −
b.
5
ex

If y = m (10)nx , y = 20 when x = 2 and y = 200 when x = 4, find the values of the constants m and n.
Technology active
9.

a. 2x < 0.3 b. (0.4) < 2

10. Solve the following for x, correct to 3 decimal places.

Solve log3 (4m) = 25n2 for m.

x
( )2
11.

a. em−kx = 2n, where k ∈ R\ {0} and n ∈ R+

12. Solve the following for x.

b. 8mx × 42n = 16, where m ∈ R\ {0}

c. 2emx = 5 + 4e−mx , where m ∈ R\ {0}
13. WE14 The diameter of a tree trunk increases according to the formula D = A × 100.04t , where D cm is

the diameter of the trunk t years after it is first measured and A cm is the diameter of the trunk when it is
first measured.
a. Write an equation for D in terms of t if the trunk had a diameter of 20 cm when it was first measured.
b. When will the diameter be 25 cm?
c. After how many years will the diameter be greater than 30 cm?

14. If y = ae−kx , y = 3.033 when x = 2 and y = 1.1157 when x = 6, find the values of the constants a and

15. The compound interest formula A = Pert is an indicial equation. If a principal amount of money, P, is
k. Give your answers correct to 2 decimal places.

invested for 5 years, the interest earned is $12 840.25, but if this same amount is invested for 7 years, the
interest earned is $14 190.66. Find the integer rate of interest and the principal amount of money
invested, to the nearest dollar.

24 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

1.6 Logarithmic graphs
1.6.1 The graph of y = loga (x)
The graph of the logarithmic function f : R+ → R, f (x) = loga (x), a > 1 has the following characteristics.

The graph of y = loga (x)

For f (x) = loga (x), a > 1:
• the domain is (0, ∞)
• the range is R
• the graph is an increasing function
y

• the graph cuts the x-axis at (1, 0)

4

• as x → 0, y → −∞, so the line x = 0 is an asymptote

3

• as a increases, the graph rises more steeply for

y = log2(x)
2

x ∈ (0, 1) and is flatter for x ∈ (1, ∞).

y = log3(x)
1 y = log10(x)
(1, 0)
0 x
–1 1 2 3 4
–1

–2

–3

–4

1.6.2 Dilations
Graphs of the form y = n loga (x) and y = loga (mx)
The graph of y = n loga (x) is the basic graph of y = loga x dilated by factor n parallel to the y-axis or
from the x-axis. The graph of y = loga (mx) is the basic graph of y = loga (x) dilated by factor parallel to
1

the x-axis or from the y-axis. The line x = 0 (the y-axis) remains the vertical asymptote and the domain
m

remains (0, ∞).

y y
y = n log a (x)
y = loga (mx)
1
(1, 0) (
––
m, 0 )
0 x 0 x

x=0 x=0

1.6.3 Reflections
Graphs of the form y = − loga (x) and y = loga (−x)
The graph of y = − loga (x) is the basic graph of y = loga (x) reflected in the x-axis. The line x = 0 (the
y-axis) remains the vertical asymptote and the domain remains (0, ∞).

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 25

 The graph of y = loga (−x) is the basic graph of y = loga (x) reflected in the y-axis. The line x = 0 (the
y-axis) remains the vertical asymptote, but the domain changes to (−∞, 0).

y y

y = –loga (x)
y = loga (–x)
(–1, 0)
(1, 0)
0 x 0 x

x=0 x=0

1.6.4 Translations
Graphs of the form y = loga (x) + k and y = loga (x − h)
The graph of y = loga (x) + k is the basic graph of y = loga (x) translated k units parallel to the y-axis. Thus
the line x = 0 (the y-axis) remains the vertical asymptote and the domain remains (0, ∞).
The graph of y = loga (x − h) is the basic graph of y = loga x translated h units parallel to the x-axis.
Thus, the line x = 0 (the y-axis) is no longer the vertical asymptote. The vertical asymptote is x = h and the
domain is (h, ∞).

y y
y = loga (x) + k

(a, 1 + k) y = loga (x – h), h > 0

0 (a–k, 0) x 0 (1 + h, 0) x

x=0 x=h

WORKED EXAMPLE 15
Sketch the graphs of the following, showing all important characteristics. State the domain and

a. y = loge (x − 2) b. y = loge (x + 1) + 2
range in each case.

c. y = loge (2x) d. y = −loge (−x)

1
4

The basic graph of y = loge (x) has been translated y = loge (x − 2)

THINK WRITE

2 units to the right, so x = 2 is the vertical The domain is (2, ∞).

a. 1. a.

asymptote. The range is R.

26 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 x-intercept, y = 0:
loge (x − 2) = 0
2. Find the x-intercept.

e0 = x − 2
1=x−2
x=3
3. Determine another point through which the graph When x = 4, y = loge (2).
( )
passes. The point is 4, loge (2) .
4. Sketch the graph. y

y = loge (x – 2)

(3, 0) (4, loge (2))

0 x

The basic graph of y = loge (x) has been translated y = loge (x + 1) + 2

x=2

2 units up and 1 unit to the left, so x = −1 is the The domain is (−1, ∞).
b. 1. b.

The graph cuts the x-axis where y = 0.

vertical asymptote. The range is R.

loge (x + 1) + 2 = 0
2. Find the x-intercept.

loge (x + 1) = −2
e−2 = x + 1
x = e−2 − 1
The graph cuts the y-axis where x = 0.
y = loge (1) + 2
3. Find the y-intercept.

=2
4. Sketch the graph. y

y = loge (x + 1) + 2

(0, 2)

(e–2 – 1, 0)
0 x

The basic graph of y = loge (x) has been dilated by c. y = loge (2x)
x = –1
1
c. 1.

The domain is (0, ∞).

1 1 4
factor from the x-axis and by factor from the
y-axis. The vertical asymptote remains x = 0.
4 2 The range is R.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 27

 x-intercept, y = 0:
loge (2x) = 0
2. Find the x-intercept.
1

loge (2x) = 0
4

e0 = 2x
1 = 2x
x=
1

When x = 1, y = loge (2).

2
3. Determine another point through which the graph
( )
passes. The point is 1, loge (2) .
4. Sketch the graph. y

1
y = – loge (2x)
4
(1, loge(2))
0 x
( )
1
–, 0
2

The basic graph of y = loge (x) has been reflected in y = − loge (−x)
x=0

both axes. The vertical asymptote remains x = 0.

d. 1. d.
The domain is (−∞, 0).

x-intercept, y = 0:
The range is R.

− loge (−x) = 0
2. Find the x-intercept.

loge (−x) = 0
e0 = −x
x = −1
When x = −2, y = − loge (2).
The point is −2, − loge (2) .
3. Determine another point through which the graph
( )
passes.
4. Sketch the graph. y

y = –loge (–x)

(–1, 0)
0 x

(–2, –loge (2))

x=0

28 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

TI | THINK WRITE CASIO | THINK WRITE
a. 1. On a Calculator page, a. 1. On a Main Menu screen,
press MENU then select Graph.
select:
2: Add Graphs.

in the f1(x) = tab as:

2. Complete the entry line 2. Complete the function

ln(x − 2) ln(x − 2)
entry line in the Y1 tab as:

3. Sketch the graph by 3. The asymptote can be

pressing the ENTER included in the sketch by
button. changing the Y2 line to
X2.
To do this, select:

X=
TYPE

X = as 2.
Complete the entry line in

asymptote, x = 2,
4. To sketch the vertical 4. Sketch the graph by
pressing either the
select: DRAW button or the
Menu EXE button.
3: Graph Entry/Edit
2: Relation.

5. Complete the entry line

x=2
as:

then press the ENTER

button.

6. The sketch of the

graph and asymptote
will appear on the
screen as one.

The situation may arise where you are given the graph of a translated logarithmic function and you are
required to find the rule. The information provided to you might include the equation of the asymptote, the
intercepts and/or other points on the graph. As a rule, the number of pieces of information is equivalent to
the number of unknowns in the equation.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 29

 WORKED EXAMPLE 16
The rule for the function shown is of the form y = loge (x − a) + b. Find the values of the constants
a and b.
y

(e2 – 3, 0)
0 x

x = –3

The vertical asymptote corresponds to the value The vertical asymptote is x = −3.
THINK WRITE

Therefore, a must be −3. So

1.

y = loge (x + 3) + b.
of a.

The graph cuts the x-axis at e2 − 3, 0 .

( )

0 = loge e − 3 + 3 + b
2. Substitute in the x-intercept to find b.
( 2 )

−b = loge e2
( )

−b = 2
b = −2
So y = loge (x + 3) − 2.
3. Write the answer. a = −3, b = −2

Resources
Interactivity: Logarithmic graphs (int-6418)

Units 3 & 4 Area 1 Sequence 1 Concept 5 Logarithmic graphs Summary screen and practice questions

Exercise 1.6 Logarithmic graphs

Technology free
1. WE15 Sketch the graphs of the following functions, showing all important characteristics. State the

a. y = loge (x + 4) b. y = loge (x) + 2 c. y = 4 loge (x) d. y = − loge (x − 4)

domain and range for each graph.

2. Sketch the graphs of the following functions, showing all important characteristics.

a. y = log3 (x + 2) − 3 b. y = 3 log5 (2 − x) c. y = 2 log10 (x + 1) d. y = log2 −

( )
x
2

30 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

Technology active

y = loge (x − m) + n. Find the values of the constants m

3. WE16 The rule for the function shown is y

4. A logarithmic function with the rule of the form y = p loge (x − q)

and n. (e + 2, 3)

passes through the points (0, 0) and (1, −0.35). Find the values
of the constants p and q.
5. Sketch the following graphs, clearly showing any axis intercepts

a. y = loge (x) + 3
and asymptotes.

b. y = loge (x) − 5
0 x

c. y = loge (x) + 0.5

6. Sketch the following graphs, clearly showing any axis intercepts

a. y = loge (x − 4) b. y = loge (x + 2) c. y = loge (x + 0.5)

x=2
and asymptotes.

a. y = 4 loge (x) b. y = 3 loge (x) c. y = 6 loge (x)

7. Sketch the following graphs, clearly showing any axis intercepts and asymptotes.
1

8. Sketch the following graphs, clearly showing any axis intercepts and asymptotes.
a. y = loge (3x) b. y = loge c. y = loge (4x)
( )
x
4
9. Sketch the following graphs, clearly showing any axis intercepts and asymptotes.
a. y = 1 − 2 loge (x − 1) b. y = loge (2x + 4) c. y = loge +1
( )
1 x

For each of the following functions, state the domain and range. Define the inverse function, f−1 , and
2 4
10.
state the domain and range in each case. (Hint: Recall your study of inverse functions from Units 1

a. f (x) = 2 loge (3x + 3) b. f (x) = loge (2 (x − 1)) + 2 c. f (x) = 2 loge (1 − x) − 2

and 2.)

−1
11. For each the functions in question 10, sketch the graphs of f and f on the same set of axes. Give the

The equation y = a loge (bx) relates x to y. The table shows values for x and y.
coordinates of any points of intersection, correct to 2 decimal places.
12.

x 1 2 3
y loge (2) 0 w

Find the integer values of the constants a and b.

a.
Find the value of w correct to 4 decimal places.
b.

y = a loge (x − h) + k is shown. Find the values of a,

13. The graph of a logarithmic function of the form y

14. The graph of y = m log2 (nx) passes through the points

h and k.

(−2, 3) and − ,
( )
1 1
. Show that the values of m and n are
2 2 x

1.25 and −2 5 respectively.

0 (1, 0)
7
(0, –2)
15. Solve the following equations for x. Give your answers correct

a. x − 2 = loge (x) b. 1 − 2x = loge (x − 1)

to 3 decimal places,
x = –1
16. Solve the following equations for x. Give your answers correct

a. x2 − 2 < loge (x) b. x3 − 2 ≤ loge (x)

to 3 decimal places,

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 31

1.7 Applications
Logarithmic functions can be used to model many real-life situations in which there is continuous growth or
decay over time. Examples of this can be as diverse as the rate at which a hot cup of tea cools down, the
increasing account balance of a long-term bank investment or the spread of bacteria through a population.

exponential functions of the form A = A0 ekt , where A0 represents the initial value, t represents the time
As logarithmic functions are essentially the inverse of exponential functions, they can be used to solve

taken and k represents the rate constant.

In order to determine the value of t in such a situation, the equation is first rearranged:

= ekt
A
A0

Then we take the natural logarithm of both sides and rearrange for t:

= kt
( )
A
loge
A0 ( )
t = loge
1 A
k A0

WORKED EXAMPLE 17

is compounded continuously, then A = Pert , where A is the accumulated dollars.

If P dollars is invested into an account that earns interest at a rate of r for t years and the interest

A deposit of $6000 is invested at the Western Bank, and $9000 is invested at the Common Bank
at the same time. Western offers compound interest continuously at a nominal rate of 6%, whereas
the Common Bank offers compound interest continuously at a nominal rate of 5%. In how many
years, correct to 1 decimal place, will the two investments be the same?

A = Pert
THINK WRITE

Western Bank: A = 6000e0.06t

1. Write the compound interest equation for each of

Common Bank: A = 9000e0.05t

the two investments.

2. Equate the two equations and solve for t. CAS 6000e0.06t = 9000e0.05t

=
could also be used to determine the answer.
e0.06t 9000
e0.05t 6000
e0.01t =
3
2
0.01t = loge
( )
3

0.01t = 0.4055
2

t=
0.4055

t = 40.5 years
0.01

32 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

WORKED EXAMPLE 18
A coroner uses a formula derived from Newton’s Law of Cooling to calculate the elapsed time
since a person died. The formula is
T−R
t = −10 loge
( )

37 − R

where t is the time in hours since the death, T is the body’s temperature measured in °C and R is
the constant room temperature in °C. An accountant stayed late at work one evening and was
found dead in his office the text morning. At 10 am the coroner measured the body temperature
to be 29.7 °C. A second reading at noon found the body temperature to be 28 °C. Assuming that
the office temperature was constant at 21 °C, determine the accountant’s estimated time of death.

T−R
THINK WRITE

t = −10 loge
( )

information. R = 21 °C and T = 29.7 °C. 37 − R

1. Determine the time of death for the 10 am

29.7 − 21
t = −10 loge
( )

37 − 21
Substitute the values into the equation and evaluate.

= −10 loge
( )
8.7

= −10 loge (0.54375)

16

= 6.09 h (
T−R
t = −10 loge
)

information. R = 21 °C and T = 28 °C. Substitute 37 − R

2. Determine the time of death for the 12 pm

28 − 21
t = −10 loge
( )

37 − 21
the values into the equation and evaluate.

= −10 loge
( )
7

= −10 loge (0.4376)

16

= 8.27h
10 − 6.09 = 3.91 or 3.55 am
12 − 8.27 = 3.73 or 3.44 am
3. Determine the estimated time of death for each
reading.
4. Write the answer. The estimated time of death is
between 3.44 and 3.55 am.

Units 3 & 4 Area 1 Sequence 1 Concept 6

Applications of logarithms Summary screen and practice questions

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 33

Exercise 1.7 Applications

WE17 A deposit of $4200 is invested at the Western Bank, and $5500 is invested at the Common Bank
Technology active
1.
at the same time. Western offers compound interest continuously at a nominal rate of 5%, whereas the
Common bank offers compound interest continuously at a nominal rate of 4.5%. In how many years will
the two investments be the same? Give your answer to the nearest year.
2. a. An investment triples in 15 years. What is the interest rate that this investment earns if it is

b. An investment of $2000 earns 4.5% interest compounded continuously. How long will it take for the
compounded continuously? Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.

investment to grow to $9000? Give your answer to the nearest month.

3. WE18 An elderly person was found deceased by a family member. The two had spoken on the telephone

the previous evening around 7 pm. The coroner attended and found the body temperature to be 25 °C at

T−R
9 am. If the house temperature had been constant at 20 °C, calculate how long after the telephone call
the elderly person died. Use Newton’s Law of Cooling, t = −10 loge
( )

37 − R
, where R is the room
temperature in °C and T is the body temperature, also in °C.

modelled by n (t) = loge t + e2 , t ≥ 0.

4. The number of parts per million,
( )n, of a fungal bloom in a stream t hours after it was detected can be

a. How many parts per million were detected initially?

b. How many parts of fungal bloom are in the stream after 12 hours? Give your answer to 2 decimal
places.
c. How long will it take before there are 4 parts per million of the fungal bloom? Give your answer
correct to 1 decimal place.
5. If $1000 is invested for 10 years at 5% interest compounded continuously, how much money will have

Let P(t) = 200kt + 1000 represent the number

accumulated after the 10 years?
6.
of bacteria present in a petri dish after t hours.
Suppose the number of bacteria trebles every
8 hours. Find the value of the constant k correct
to 4 decimal places.
7. An epidemiologist studying the progression of
a flu epidemic decides that the function

P(t) = 1 − e−kt , k > 0

3( )
4

will be a good model for the proportion, P(t), of the

earth’s population that will contract the flu after
1
t months. If after 3 months of the earth’s population has the flu, find the value of the constant k,
1500
correct to 4 decimal places.
8. Carbon-14 dating works by measuring the amount of carbon-14, a radioactive element, that is present in
a fossil. All living things have a constant level of carbon-14 in them.
Once an organism dies, the carbon-14 in its body starts to decay according to the rule

Q = Q0 e−0.000124t

where t is the time in years since death, Q0 is the amount of carbon-14 in milligrams present at death
and Q is the quantity of carbon-14 in milligrams present after t years.

34 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 a. If it is known that a particular fossil initially had 100 milligrams of carbon-14, how much carbon-14,
in milligrams, will be present after 1000 years? Give your answer correct to 1 decimal place.
b. How long will it take before the amount of carbon-14 in the fossil is halved? Give your answer
correct to the nearest year.
9. Glottochronology is a method of dating a language at a particular stage, based on the theory that over a
long period of time linguistic changes take place at a fairly constant rate. Suppose a particular language

words in use is given by W (t) = W0 (0.805)t .

originally has W0 basic words and that at time t, measured in millennia, the number, W (t), of basic

a. Calculate the percentage of basic words lost after ten millennia.

b. Calculate the length of time it would take for the number of basic words lost to be one-third of the
original number of basic words. Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.
10. The mass, M grams, of a radioactive element, is modelled by the rule

M = a − loge (t + b)

where t is the time in years. The initial mass is 7.8948 grams, and after 80 years the mass is
7.3070 grams.
a. Find the equation of the mass remaining after t years. Give a correct to 1 decimal place and b as an
integer.
b. Find the mass remaining after 90 years.
11. The population, P, of trout at a trout farm
is declining due to deaths of a large number
of fish from fungal infections.
The population is modelled by the function

P = a loge (t) + c

where t represents the time in weeks since the

infection started. The population of trout was
10 000 after 1 week and 6000 after 4 weeks.
a. Find the values of the constants a and c.
Give your answers correct to 1 decimal
place where appropriate.
b. Find the number of trout, correct to the nearest whole trout, after 8 weeks.
c. If the infection remains untreated, how long will it take for the population of trout to be less than
1000? Give your answer correct to 1 decimal place.
12. In her chemistry class, Hei is preparing a special solution for an experiment that she has to complete.
The concentration of the solution can be modelled by the rule

C = A loge (kt)

where C is the concentration in moles per litre (M) and t represents the time of mixing in seconds. The
concentration of the solution after 30 seconds of mixing is 4 M, and the concentration of the solution
after 2 seconds of mixing was 0.1 M.
a. Find the values of the constants A and k, giving your answers correct to 3 decimal places.
b. Find the concentration of the solution after 15 seconds of mixing.
c. How long does it take, in minutes and seconds, for the concentration of the solution to reach 10 M?

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 35

13. Andrew believes that his fitness level can
be modelled by the function

F (t) = 10 + 2 loge (t + 2)

where F (t) is his fitness level and t is the time

in weeks since he started training.
a. What was Andrew’s level of fitness before
he started training?
b. After 4 weeks of training, what was
Andrew’s level of fitness?
c. How long will it take for Andrew’s level of
fitness to reach 15?
14. In 1947 a cave with beautiful prehistoric
paintings was discovered in Lascaux,
France.
Some charcoal found in the cave contained
20% of the carbon-14 that would be expected in
living trees. Determine the age of the paintings
to the nearest whole number if

Q = Q0 e−0.000124t

where Q0 is the amount of carbon-14 originally

and t is the time in years since the death of the
prehistoric material. Give your answer correct
to the nearest year.
15. The sales revenue, R dollars, that a manufacturer receives for selling x units of a certain product can be
modelled by the function

R (x) = 800 loge 2 +

( )
x
.
250

Furthermore, each unit costs the manufacturer 2 dollars to produce, and the initial cost of adjusting the
machinery for production is $300, so the total cost in dollars, C, of production is

C (x) = 300 + 2x.

Find the number of units that need to be produced and sold to break even, that is, to reach P (x) = 0.
Write the profit, P (x) dollars, obtained by the production and sale of x units.
a.
b.
Give your answer correct

16. The value of a certain number of shares, $V, can be modelled by the equation
to the nearest integer.

V = kemt

where t is the time in months. The original value of the shares was $10 000, and after one year the value
of the shares was $13 500.
a. Find the values of the constants k and m, giving answers correct to 3 decimal places where
appropriate.

36 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 b. Find the value of the shares to the nearest dollar after 18 months.
c. After t months, the shares are sold for 1.375 times their value at the time. Find an equation relating
the profit made, P, over the time the shares were owned.
d. If the shares were kept for 2 years, calculate the profit made on selling the shares at that time.

1.8 Review: exam practice

A summary of this chapter is available in the Resources section of your eBookPLUS at www.jacplus.com.au.

1. MC Simplifying 3 loge (5) + 2 loge (2) − loge (20) gives:

Simple familiar

( )
19
A. loge B. loge (109) C. loge (480) D. 2 loge (5)

2. MC If 5 log10 (x) − log10 x2 = 1 + log10 (y), then x is equal to:

20
( )
√3 10
A. y B. 10y C. 10y D.

3. MC The function h has the rule h (x) = a loge (x − m) + k, where m and k are positive constants and a
y

A. R+ B. R\ {m} C. R\ {n} D. (m, ∞)

is a negative constant. The maximal domain of h is:

4. MC If 7eax = 3, then x equals:

( ) ( )
3 3 loge 73 loge (3)
A. loge (a) B. a loge C. D.

− 4 × 3 + 1 = 0 is:
7 7 a a loge (7)
2x+1 x
5. MC The exact solution of the equation 3

A. x = 0, x = −1 B. x = 0, x = 1 C. x = −1, x = 1 D. x = , x = 1
1
3

a. 2 loge (x) − loge (x − 1) = loge (x − 4) b. 2 loge (x + 2) − loge (x) = loge 3 (x − 1)

6. Solve the following equations for x.

c. 2 log4 (x) = 3 − log4 x

( )2 ( 5)

a. log2 (y) = 2 log2 (x) − 3 b. log3 (9x) − log3 x4 y = 2

7. Express y in terms of x for the following equations, giving any restrictions for x.
( )

8. Sketch the graphs of each of the following, showing any axis intercepts and the asymptote(s). State the

a. y = loge (x − 1) + 3 b. y = loge (x + 3) − 1 c. y = 2 loge (−x)

domain and range in each case.

9. The loudness of plant machinery at a manufacturing business is modelled by the equation

L = 10 log10
( )
I
, where L is the loudness in decibels (dB), I is the intensity in W/m2 and

I0 = 10−12 W/m2 .
I0

a. If the loudness of the plant machinery at this business is known to be 90 dB, calculate the intensity

b. Calculate the loudness of the plant machinery if the intensity is 10−6 W/m2 .
for this situation.

10. If log2 5 = 2.321 and log2 9 = 3.17, find log2

( )
5
.
9
11. Earthquake intensity is often reported on the Richter scale. The magnitude of R is given by

R = log10 + B, where a is the amplitude of the ground motion in microns at the receiving station,
( )
a
T
T is the period of the seismic wave in seconds, and B is an empirical factor that allows for the weakening
of the seismic wave with the increasing distance from the epicentre of the earthquake.
Find the magnitude of the earthquake if the amplitude of the ground motion is 10 microns, the period
is 1 second and the empirical factor is 6.8.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 37

12. Using previous knowledge of the transformation of the graphs of functions, match each equation (a–d)

a. y = − log10 (x) b. y = 2 log10 (x)

with a suitable graph (P–S).

c. y = log10 (2x) d. y = log10 (x − 1)

P y Q y

0 (2, 0) x 0 (0.5, 0) x

x=1 x=0

R y S y

0 x 0 x
(1, 0) (1, 0)

x=0 x=0

Complex familiar
( )
13. If log4 (p) = x and log4 (q) = y, show that log4 = 3 − 3x + .
64q2 3y
3
√
p q 2

concentration of the hydrogen ion, H+ in moles/litre, and is calculated according to the formula
14. The pH of a substance is a value that defines the acidity or alkalinity of that substance. It depends on the
[ ]

pH = − log10 H+ .
[ ]

Solutions with a pH less than 7 are acidic, solutions with a pH greater than 7 are basic, and solutions
with a pH of 7 are neutral.
a. For each of the following, f
b. ind the pH and state whether the solution is acidic, basic or neutral.

ii. Ammonia has a hydrogen ion concentration of 10−11 moles/litre.

i. Vinegar has a hydrogen ion concentration of 0.01 moles/litre.

c. Find the hydrogen ion concentration for each of the following.

i. Apples have a pH of 3.
ii. Sodium hydroxide has a pH of 14.

38 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

15. The table gives values for x and y that relate to the equation y = a loge (bx). Find the exact values of a, b
and m.

−3 loge (2)
x 1 2 3
y 0 m

16. An object falls from a high tower. The distance it falls in a certain time is recorded in the table.

t (s) 1 2 3 4 5

d (m) 4.7 18.8 42.3 75.2 117.5

If a relationship of the form d = Atn exists, find values for A and n.

a.
Use this relationship to predict the value of d after 7 seconds.
b.

17. The graph shown has the rule g (x) = loge (x − h) + k, where h and k are constants.
Complex unfamiliar

y = g(x)

(0, 0) x

x = –2

Show that k = − loge (2).

a. State the value of h.

x−h
b.

Hence, rewrite the rule in the form g (x) = loge

( )
c. , where c is a constant.
c
18. Carbon-14 dating measures the amount
of radioactive carbon-14 in fossils. This

Q = Q0 e−0.000 124t , where Q is the amount,

can be modelled by the relationship

in milligrams, of carbon-14 currently

present in the fossil of an organism, t is the
time in years since the organism’s death,
and Q0 is the initial amount, in milligrams,
of carbon-14 present.

a. A fossil shell initially has 150 milligrams

of carbon-14 present. How much carbon-14
will be present after 2000 years? Give
your answer correct to 3 decimal places.
b. Find the number of years it will take for the carbon-14 in the shell to be halved. Give your answer
correct to the nearest year.
Q0
c. i. Suppose the amount of carbon-14 in the shell is . Find an equation relating n to t.
n
Q0
ii. Hence, find how long it will be before the amount of carbon-14 in the fossil shell is . Give
10
your answer to the nearest year.

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 39

19. The population of quokkas in a small cor-
ner of south-western Western Australia
is currently described as vulnerable. The
once-plentiful population of quokkas was
drastically reduced after dingoes, foxes and
wild pigs were introduced to Australia.

Conservation efforts and dingo, fox and

wild pig control programs have seen quokka
populations recovering in some areas. In the
Northern Jarrah forest, one of the areas
where these conservation practices occur,
there were known to be about 150 quokkas in
2008. Conservationists produced a model for the increase in population, P, which was given by

P = a loge (t) + b

where t is the time in years since 2007 and a and b are constants. There were estimated to be about 6000
quokkas present in the forest in 2013.
a. Determine the values of a and b. Give your answers correct to the nearest integer.
b. Calculate the number of quokkas that is expected to be present in 2025. Give your answer correct to
the nearest integer.
c. Given that quokkas have a life expectancy of about 10 years, the model for the actual population is
revised to

PR = P − 0.25P

where PR is the revised population.

i. Find the equation relating PR to t, the number of years since 2007.
ii. Calculate the revised population prediction for 2025. Give your answer correct to the nearest

20. The graph of the function f: (−5, ∞) → R, f (x) = loge (x + 5) + 1 is shown.

integer.

a. Find the rule and domain of f−1 , the inverse function of f.

b. On the same set of axes, sketch the graph of f−1 . Label the axis intercepts with their exact values.
c. Find the coordinates of the point(s) of intersection correct to 3 decimal places.

y = loge(x + 5) + 1
(0, loge(5) + 1)

(e–1 – 5, 0)
0 x

x = –5

Units 3 & 4 Sit exam

40 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

Answers 4. a.
c.
0
0
b.
d.
0
0
The logarithmic function 2
log5 (x + 1)3 or log4 (x − 2)
e. 3 log10 (x) f. 5 log10 (x)

3 log5 (x + 1)
g. h.
Exercise 1.2 Review of the index laws
1. a. x7 b. x5 c. x10 5. a. 2 b. 5
1
d. e. x6
f. x c. 3 d. 4
x6 e. 10 f. 12
10x4 y2 g. 2.207 h. 0.388
g. 5x4 y3 h. 6x2 y3 i.
3 1
i. 2 j.
27x2 y14 5
j. 4
2 6. a. 3 b.
1 3
2 3, 4
−
2. a. 9 b. 8 c. 1 7
125 c. d.
1 2
d. e. 3 f. 216 47
1000 7. a. 243 b.
3 9 8 10

−1.2619
g. h. i. 8. a. i. 1.2770
7 16 27
2x = 2 × 3z
27 ii.
j. b. i.
64 3
3 x6 5 5 ii.
3. a. b. c. 6x 4 y 3 z
log5 (9) = log 1 (12) =
x11 y2 y4 log (9 ) log (12)
10
10 ( )
5 9. a. b.

log6 (216) = 3 log2 (256) = 8

1
20 x 243x 2 3 log (5) 2 log
10 10 2

log3 (81) = 4 log10 (0.0001) = −4

d.
1
e. f. 8y 8 10. a. b.
y2

log5 (0.008) = −3 log7 (7) = 1

y4 c. d.

−3
15 7
3 2a 2 b 2 e. f.

−128
g. h. 11. a. 4 b.

22n × 32n+1 −5
a9 b3 3 c. 11 d.
6n−1
4. a. 2 b. 36n+1 c.

2n × 33n+1
7
c. − −2
12. a. b.
2 1
d. e. f. 1

1+x (x + 1)2
3 d.
2

1 − x2
2
2x 5 2
5. a. b. c. e. f.

13. a. 3 log3 (x − 4) log7 (2x + 3)

x x4 12 5

x+y 2 log4 (5x + 1)

1 b.
d.

−6.9189
c. 0 d.
4 1 14. a. 1.7712 b.

2n + 1
6. a. b. 4
3 243 15. a. 5n+1 b. c.
7. B n
−3
+1 −3
8. a. 1000 b. 1414 1( )
16. a. e b. e
9. D 2
c. 7 d. 15
f. −
10. a. 10 m b. 4.10 m c. 49.04 m
6
e. 10
Exercise 1.3 Logarithmic laws and equations 5
5
1. a. 1 b. 1 c. 1 g. 6 h.

−1 −3
d. 1 e. 5 f. 4 4
g. h.
5 3
i. j. 10 2 or 10
1 1 4
2. a. log2 (x) b. log3 (x) c. log3 (x) 1
2 3 k. 9 or l. 4
( 2) ( ) 3
x x
y= y=
d. log4 (x) e. log2 f. log3 4 x2
−3
y y2 17. a. b.
x3 16
y= y = 64x
3. a. 4 b. c. 3
d. 1 e. log2 (10) f. log3 (54)
9
c. d.
x
x = 3m 2+ − 5x
3 1
g. 2 h. i. 3y
2 2 18. a. b.
2 2
j. 1
3 19. 16,
20. a. −0.463, 0.675
16
b. 0.451, 1
21. 1.5518, 1.4422

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 41

 5+
( √ )
, m ∈ R ∖ {0}
Exercise 1.4 Logarithmic scales 1 57
c. loge

K = 61 808 13. a. D = 20 × 10
1. 10 W/m2 m 4
2. 0.04 t
3. The 6.4 earthquake is 1.41 times bigger than the 6.3 b. 2 years and 5 months

K = 3691.17 14. a = 5, k = 0.25

earthquake. c. 5 years

15. r = 5%, P = $10 000

4.
5. A 500-watt amplifier is 13.98 dB louder than a 20-watt
amplifier.

pH[= 3] (acidic)
6. 160 dB Exercise 1.6 Logarithmic graphs

a. H = 1 mole/litre
+
7. 1. y

b. H = 0.0001 moles/litre
8.
[ +] y = loge (x + 4)

c. H = 10 moles/litre
−8
[ +]

d. H = 10
−12
[ +]
(–3, 0) (0, loge (4))
moles/litre
9. a. 4.8 (acidic) 0 x
b. 5.56 (acidic)
10. a. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
in the online resources.

−437.97
b. 9 988 years old

n = 361 cents Domain = (−4, ∞), range = R

11. x = –4

Ear protection should be worn as L = 133.98 dB.

12.
a.
13. y
b.
14. 8.7
y = loge (x) + 2
Exercise 1.5 Indicial equations

log10 (5) +
1 1 (1, 2)
1. a. 3 b.
2 ( ) 2 x
1 0 (e–2, 0)
c. 2 d. log10 , log10 (3)
2
−9
1
2. a. b. log2 (9)
2
loge (2)
c. d. loge (5)

log7 (5) + Domain = (0, ∞), range = R

x=0
1 1
3. a. b. 0, 2
2 2 ( ) ( ) y
c.
2 5
c. log5 (3) d. log9 , log9
3 2
− log3 (2) − 1
7 y = 4 loge (x)
4. a. b.
8 ( ) (2, 4 loge (2))
3
loge 0 (1, 0) x
4
c. 0, 1 d.
loge (12)
1 b. 0

−x−1
5. a.
1
6. a. b. 1, 3
7. a. 2 loge (3) + 2
Domain = (0, ∞), range = R
x x=0
b. 4 loge (2)

d. ± loge (2)
√
c. loge (3) d. y

8. a. 2 loge (2) b. 2 loge (2), 3 loge (2)

c. loge 1 + 5 d. loge 6 ± 31
y = –loge (x – 4)
( √ ) ( √ )

n= ,m=2
1 (5, 0)

10. a. x < −1.737 b. x > −0.756

9.
2 0 x
(6, –loge (2))

11. m = ,m=
4 × 35n
35n 1

m − loge (2n)
4

, k ∈ R ∖ {0} , n ∈ R
4 − 4n
12. a.
k
, m ∈ R ∖ {0} Domain = (4, ∞), range = R
x=4

b.
3m

42 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

2. a. y b. y

y = log3 (x + 2) –3 y = loge (x) – 5

(25, 0)
x 0 (e5, 0) x
0

(0, log3 (2) –3) (1, –5)

x = –2 x=0
b. y y
c.
y = 3log5 (2 – x)
y = loge (x) + 0.5

(0, 3log5 (2))

(1, 0)
0 x (1, 0.5)

x
0
(e , 0)
–1
2

x=2
c. y

y = 2 log10 (x + 1)
x=0
6. a. y y = loge (x – 4)
(1, 2 log10 (2))
(10, loge (6))
(0, 0) x

x = –1 (5, 0)
d. y 0 x

( )
x
y = log2 – –2

(–2, 0) x=4
0 x y
(–1, –1) b.
y = loge (x + 2)
(0, loge (2))
x=0 (–1, 0)

m = 2, n = 2
0 x

−7
3.

4. p = , q = −1
20 loge (2)
5. a. y
y = loge (x) + 3

(1, 3)
x = –2

0 (e–3, 0) x

x=0

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 43

 c. y b. y
y = loge (x + 0.5)
x
y = loge –
4 ()
(4, 0)
(0.5, 0) 0 x
0 x

(0, loge (0.5)) ( ( ))

1
1, loge –
4

x=0
c. y

y = loge (4x)
x = – 0.5 (1, loge(4))

7. a. y
0 x
(0.25, 0)

(1, 0)
y = –1 loge (x)
4
( (
1
4, –
4

0 x
x=0
9. a. y

x=0
b. y (2, 1 – 2 loge(1))
y = 3 loge (x) y = 1 – 2 loge (x – 1)

(e0.5 + 1, 0)
(2, 3 loge (2)) 0 x

(1, 0)
0 x x=1
b. y

y = loge (2x + 4)

x=0 (0, loge (4))

c. y
0 x
(–1.5, 0)
(2, 6 loge(2))
x = –2
c. y
y = 6 loge (x)
(1, 0) ()
y = 1–2 loge –4x + 1
( 1
4, – loge (1) + 1 )
0 x 2
–2
(4e , 0)
0 x

x=0
x=0

f (x) = 2 loge (3 (x + 1)), domain = (−1, ∞) and

8. a. y

range = R
10. a.

f−1 (x) = e 2 − 1, domain = R and range = (−1, ∞)

y = loge (3x)
(1, loge(3)) 1 x

b. f (x) = loge (2 (x − 1)) + 2, domain = (1, ∞) and

3

range = R
0 x
( –13 , 0)
f−1 (x) = ex−2 + 1, domain = R and range = (1, ∞)
1
2
x=0

44 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland

 f (x) = 2 loge (1 − x) − 2, domain = (−∞, 1) and a = −1, b =
range = R
c.
1

−0.4055
12. a.
2

f−1 (x) = 1 − e 2 (x+2) , domain = R and range = (−∞, 1)

13. a. a = , h = −1, k = −2
1 b.
2
11. a.

(−2, 3) ⇒ 3 = m log2 (−2n)

loge (2)
y=x 14. [1]

− , ⇒ = m log2 −
( ) ( )
1 1 1 n
[2]

[1] − [2]:
y = 2 loge(3x + 3) 2 2 2 2
(6.12, 6.12)
(0, 2 loge (3))

3− = m log2 (−2n) − m log2 −

( )
1 n
2 2

= m log2 (−2n) − log2

x
1 e–2 – 1 ( ( ))
y=–
3 5 n
2 2
−2n
(– 2–3, 0) ( ( ))
= m log2 n

= m log2 (4)
0 x 2

= m log2 22
y = –1
(0 , – 2–3)
= 2m
(2 loge (3), 0)

m=
(–0.77, –0.77) 5
x = –1 4

Substitute m =
b. 5
into [1]:
y 4

3= log2 (−2n)
y=x 5
(3.68, 3.68)
4

= log2 (−2n)
y = loge (2(x – 1) + 2)
12
5

2 5 = −2n
(1.23, 1.23) 12
y = 1–2 e x – 2 + 1

n = 2 5 ÷ −2
12
(0, 1– –2
2
e )
+1

= −2 5
y=1
7

x ∈ (0.138, 1.564) x ∈ 0.136, 1.315

0 x 15. a. 0.159 or 3.146 b. 1.2315
[ ]
(1– –2
2
e + 1, 0 ) 16. a. b.

x=1
Exercise 1.7 Applications
c. y
1. 54 years
2. a. 7.32% b. 33 years 5 months
y=x
y = 2 loge(1 – x) – 2 3
3. 8.46 pm, so the person died 1 hours after the phone call.
(1 – e, 0) 4
y=1 4. a. 2 parts per million
b. 2.96 parts per million
c. 47.2 hours
0 x 5. $1648.72
6. 0.1793
(–2, 0)
(0, 1 – e) 7. 0.0003
(0, –2) 8. a. 88.3 mg b. 5590 years

10. a. a = 12.5, b = 100

(–0.81, –0.81) 9. a. 88.57% lost b. 1.87 millennia

11. a. a = −2885.4, c = 10 000

b. 7.253 g
1
– (x + 2)
y = 1 – e2
b. 4000

12. a. A = 1.440, k = 0.536

c. 22.6 weeks

b. 3.00 M
x=1
c. 32 minutes 14 seconds

CHAPTER 1 The logarithmic function 2 45

13. a. 11.3863 b. 13.5835 c. 10.18 weeks c. y = 2 loge (−x)
14. 12 979 years y

P(x) = 800 loge 2 + − 300 − 2x

( )
x
15. a.
250 y = 2loge(–x)

k = 10 000, m = 0.025
b. 750
16. a.

P = 13 750e0.025t − 10 000
b. $15 685.58
c. (–1, 0) 0 x
d. $15 054.13

1.8 Review: exam practice

1. D
2. C
3. D x=0

Domain = (−∞, 0), range = R

4. C
A
−3
5.

10. −0.849
1 9. a. 10 W/m2 b. 60 dB
6. a. No solution b. 4 c. or 2
64

y= where x > 0
x2 11. 7.8
7. a.
8 12. a. S b. R c. Q d. P

y= provided that x > 0

1 13. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in

a. i. pH = 2 (acidic)
b.

8. a. y = loge (x − 1) + 3
x3 the online resources.

ii. pH = 11 (basic)
14.

−14
y b. i. 0.001 moles/litre
ii. 10 moles/litre
a = 3, b = and m = 3 loge
( )
1 3
15.

a. A = 4.7 and n = 2
2 2
16.

a. h = −2 b. k = − loge (2)
y = loge(x – 1) + 3 b. 230.3 m

x+2
17.

c. g (x) = loge
( )

2
( 1
–
e3
+ 1, 0 ) 18. a. 117.054 mg

c. i. n = e
b. 5590 years
0 x 0.000 124t

a. a = 3265, b = 150
ii. 18 569 years
19.

Domain = (1, ∞), range = R

x=1

c. i. PR = 2448.75 loge (t) + 112.5

b. 9587 quokkas

b. y = loge (x + 3) − 1 ii. 7 190 quokkas

a. f (x) = e − 5, domain = R
−1
y
(x−1)
20.

loge (5) + 1, 0 , 0, − 5
) ( 1 )
−1
(
b. f
y = loge (x + 3) – 1 e
y
y=x
(0, loge(5) + 1)
(0, loge (3) – 1) (3.091, 3.091)
y = f (x)
(e – 3, 0) 0 x
(loge(5) + 1, 0)
x
(–1e – 5, 0) 0

y = f –1(x)

(–4.998, –4.998)
(0, –1e – 5)
Domain = (−3, ∞), range = R
x = –3 y = –5

(−4.998, −4.998) and (3.091, 3.091)

x = –5
c.

46 Jacaranda Maths Quest 12 Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 for Queensland