Applications of logarithms

The examples below illustrate the main applications of logarithms (and exponential functions) which appear in the Higher Mathematics examination.

Given any equation of the form you will either be asked to work out one of the unknowns, or to carry out a calculation involving this equation.

Have a look at the following worked example.

The power supply of a space satellite is by means of a radioisotope. The power output, in watts, is given by where is the time in days. The power output at launch is 60 watts.

After 14 days the power output has fallen to 56 watts. Calculate the value of k to three decimal places.
The satellite cannot function properly if the power output falls below 5 watts. How many days will the satellite function properly?

First, calculate the value of to three decimal places.

substitute the values you have into the formula

simplify

use the laws of logarithms to separate

solve

k = -0.005

(or )
Secondly, work out how many days it will take for the power output to reach 5 watts.

When

The total number of days it will take for the power output to reach 5 watts will be 496. (Note, on the 497th day, the power output will have fallen below 5 watts.)

	Created by littlemy666 about 9 years ago

	Copied by Ispandan Chhetri about 9 years ago

Note on Aplications of logarithms, created by Ispandan Chhetri on 19/11/2015.