Subjects: Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

Decibels, the Richter Scale, pH levels and the slide rule are applications of logarithms examined via experiments, interviews and solving problems.

Reviews expressions, equations and graphs related to exponential and logarithmic functions. Graphs are presented as inverses, both in base 10 and base e. Demonstrates exponential growth and exponential decay.

Students learn to recognize the general characteristics of the graphs of exponential functions with various bases. Situations involving exponential growth and decay are explored. Students solve and verify exponential equations.

Through a variety of real world applications, this program explores the concepts of exponential growth and decay. Examples include carbon dating, bacterial growth, DNA splicing and the effect of the bubonic plague on current world populations.

Examines inverses, logarithms and their graphs and introduces the formal definition of logarithms and the characteristics of their graphs. Presents rewriting logarithmic expressions in exponential form and vice versa and the properties of logarithms.

A review of the exponent laws is used to establish and prove the laws of logarithms. Students learn how to simplify and evaluate logarithmic expressions using the laws. Log and semi-log graph paper is demonstrated.

Describes how to solve and verify exponential equations and logarithmic equations, both base 10 and non base 10. Presents historical facts about calculating devices, such as the abacus and Napier’s Bones.