Use common logarithms or natural logarithms and a calculator to evaluate to four decimal places. log_π 63

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the logarithm expression given: \(\log_{\pi} 63\), which means the logarithm of 63 with base \(\pi\).
2. Recall the change of base formula for logarithms: \(\log_a b = \frac{\log_c b}{\log_c a}\), where \(c\) can be any positive number (commonly 10 or \(e\)).
3. Apply the change of base formula using common logarithms (base 10): \(\log_{\pi} 63 = \frac{\log_{10} 63}{\log_{10} \pi}\).
4. Use a calculator to find the values of \(\log_{10} 63\) and \(\log_{10} \pi\) separately, making sure to keep at least four decimal places.
5. Divide the two logarithm values obtained to get the value of \(\log_{\pi} 63\), rounded to four decimal places.

Key Concepts

Logarithms and Their Bases

A logarithm answers the question: to what power must the base be raised to produce a given number? Common logarithms use base 10, while natural logarithms use base e (~2.718). Understanding the base is crucial for evaluating or converting logarithmic expressions.

Change of Base Formula

The change of base formula allows you to evaluate logarithms with any base using common or natural logarithms: log_b(a) = log_c(a) / log_c(b), where c is a convenient base like 10 or e. This formula is essential when calculators only provide log base 10 or e.

Using a Calculator for Logarithms

Calculators typically have buttons for common logarithms (log base 10) and natural logarithms (ln). To evaluate logs with other bases, use the change of base formula and these functions, then round the result to the required decimal places.