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

12197 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Solve the simultaneous equations: (1) y – 2x – 4 = 0 , (2) 4x^2 + y^2 + 20x = 0


Using the "complete the square" method, solve the following x^2 +4x - 21 =0


how to find flight time/distance and greatest hight of projectiles?


Solve x² ≥ | 5x - 6 | (Question from AQA Core 3 June 2016)


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