Natural Log Functions in Calculus

Apr 27, 2025

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

  1. Ln(1) = 0

    • Logarithm base is e (approx. 2.71).
    • Interpretation: e to the power of 0 gives 1.
  2. Product Property:

    • Ln(x * y) = Ln(x) + Ln(y).
    • Can expand or combine logarithms using this property.
  3. Quotient Property:

    • Ln(x / y) = Ln(x) - Ln(y).
    • Similar to the product property, but for division.
  4. 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

  1. Basic Power Rule:

    • Integral of x^5 = x^6/6 + C.
  2. 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.