Prove the change of base formula for logarithms. That is, prove that log_a (x) = log_b (x) / log_b (a).

Firstly, recall the definition of a logarithm: if y = loga(x), then this means that y is the power you have to raise a to, to get x, that is ay = x.Now, we want to introduce a new base, b. Let's take log to base b of both sides of the above equation. We get logb(ay) = logb(x). But remember our rules of logarithms -- we know that ylogb(a) = logb(ay), so we get that ylogb(a) = logb(x).Lastly, divide both sides by logb(a), to obtain: y = logb(x)/logb(a). Aha! Remember we started off by saying that y = loga(x). Therefore, loga(x) = logb(x)/logb(a), and our proof is complete!

TH
Answered by Tom H. Maths tutor

12198 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given that A(sin θ + cos θ) + B(cos θ − sin θ) ≡ 4 sin θ, find the values of the constants A and B.


if f(x) = 7x-1 and g(x) = 4/(x-2), solve fg(x) = x


Find the turning point of y = x + 1 + 4/x2 and describe the nature of the turning point


How to solve the absolute-value inequalities?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning