Calculus 2 - Lecture on Natural Log Functions (Section 6.1)
Introduction
- Topic: Natural Logarithm (Ln) Functions
- Objective: Review key properties of natural logs, understand their role in derivatives and integrals.
Properties of Natural Logarithms
-
Ln(1) = 0
- Logarithm base is
e
(approx. 2.71).
- Interpretation:
e
to the power of 0 gives 1.
-
Product Property:
- Ln(x * y) = Ln(x) + Ln(y).
- Can expand or combine logarithms using this property.
-
Quotient Property:
- Ln(x / y) = Ln(x) - Ln(y).
- Similar to the product property, but for division.
-
Power Property:
- Ln(x^r) = r * Ln(x).
- Useful for expanding or combining logarithms.
Logarithms and Calculus
- Expanding Logarithms:
- Break down complex logarithmic expressions to make derivatives or integrals easier.
- Example: Expand Ln(3x^4 / 2y^2).
- Solution: Ln(3) + 4Ln(x) - 2Ln(y).
Graphs of Functions
- Graph of e^x:
- Passes through (0,1) and never crosses the x-axis.
- As x increases, e^x grows; as x decreases, e^x approaches zero.
- Graph of Ln(x):
- Inverse of e^x, reflected across y = x.
- Passes through (1,0), undefined for x ≤ 0.
Integrals and Derivatives
-
Integrals (Anti-Derivatives):
- Reverse operation of derivatives, adding a constant
+ C
to the result.
-
Basic Power Rule for Integration:
- Integral of x^n = (x^(n+1))/(n+1) + C.
-
Chain Rule for Derivatives:
- Derivative of Ln(f(x)) = 1/f(x) * f'(x).
Examples of Calculating Integrals
-
Basic Power Rule:
- Integral of x^5 = x^6/6 + C.
-
Substitution Method in Integration:
- Used when direct integration is complex.
- Example: Integral of sin(x).
Advanced Concepts
- Derivative of 1/x = -1/x^2.
- Special Case Integrals:
- Integral of 1/x = Ln|x| + C.
Practice Problems
- Expanding Logarithms: Complete practice with provided exercises.
- Combining Logarithms: Use properties to simplify expressions.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding and using the properties of natural logarithms are fundamental in calculus.
- Expand logarithms before integrating or differentiating to simplify the process.
- Remember the graphical behavior of e^x and Ln(x) for better intuition.
Make sure to practice these concepts and utilize examples provided to reinforce your understanding of natural logarithms in calculus.