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Logarithmic: meaning, definitions and examples

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logarithmic

 

[ lɒɡəˈrɪθmɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics concept

Relating to or expressed in logarithms. A logarithmic scale is one in which the value of each unit increases exponentially, which helps in representing large ranges of values in a compact form.

Synonyms

exponential, logarithmically-related

Examples of usage

  • The pH scale is a logarithmic scale.
  • Logarithmic functions are used in various scientific calculations.
  • In finance, logarithmic returns are preferred for analyzing investments.
  • Logarithmic graphs are useful for visualizing exponential growth.

Translations

Translations of the word "logarithmic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 logarítmico

🇮🇳 लॉगरिदमिक

🇩🇪 logarithmisch

🇮🇩 logaritmik

🇺🇦 логарифмічний

🇵🇱 logarytmiczny

🇯🇵 対数の

🇫🇷 logarithmique

🇪🇸 logarítmico

🇹🇷 logaritmik

🇰🇷 로그arithmic

🇸🇦 لوغاريتمي

🇨🇿 logaritmický

🇸🇰 logaritmický

🇨🇳 对数的

🇸🇮 logaritemski

🇮🇸 logarithmic

🇰🇿 логарифмдік

🇬🇪 ლოგარითმული

🇦🇿 loqaritmik

🇲🇽 logarítmico

Etymology

The term 'logarithmic' originates from the word 'logarithm', which itself was coined by the Scottish mathematician John Napier in the early 17th century. Napier introduced logarithms as a mathematical tool to simplify complex calculations, particularly in the realm of astronomy and navigation. The word 'logarithm' is derived from the Greek words 'logos', meaning 'ratio', and 'arithmos', meaning 'number'. 'Logarithmic' came into use as the technique gained popularity among mathematicians and scientists. By the 19th century, logarithmic scales were being applied in various fields, including engineering and economics, to allow for easier comprehension of data that varies across large magnitudes. Today, logarithmic functions and scales are integral in fields such as acoustics, population studies, and even behavioral sciences.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,231, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.