Final answer:
To find the exact value of a logarithm, follow these steps: identify the base and argument of the logarithm, write the logarithm in exponential notation, and solve for the exponent.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the exact value of a logarithm, you can use the fact that logarithms are exponents and follow the same rules as operations involving exponents. Here are the steps to find the exact value of a logarithm:
- Identify the base of the logarithm. For example, if you have logb(x), the base is 'b'.
- Identify the argument of the logarithm. For example, in logb(x), the argument is 'x'.
- Write the logarithm in exponential notation. For example, logb(x) can be written as by = x.
- Solve for the exponent 'y' using algebraic techniques specific to the equation. For example, if you have log2(8) = y, you can rewrite it as 2y = 8. Solving this equation yields y = 3.
Using these steps, you can find the exact value of a logarithm. Remember to check your answer by substituting it back into the original logarithmic equation.