Concept

Evaluating a Logarithm by Inspection

A logarithmic expression such as log327\log_3 27 can be evaluated exactly by inspection. This involves interpreting the expression as a question: "the base to what power will equal the given value?" For example, to evaluate log327\log_3 27, one asks "33 to what power will be 2727?" Since 33=273^3 = 27, it follows that log327=3\log_3 27 = 3. Alternatively, the expression can be set equal to a variable xx and converted into its equivalent exponential equation.

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Updated 2026-05-25

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Intermediate Algebra @ OpenStax

Ch.10 Exponential and Logarithmic Functions - Intermediate Algebra @ OpenStax

Algebra

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