laws of logarithms
What laws of logarithms means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel, WJEC.
Definitions of laws of logarithms
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain laws of logarithms in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
Rules that let you combine or split logarithms of the same base: adding gives the log of the product, subtracting gives the log of the quotient, and a coefficient becomes a power.
These derive directly from the laws of indices and allow complex multi-term logarithmic expressions to be condensed into a single logarithm or expanded into linear combinations.
Topics that use laws of logarithms
- Exponentials and logarithms (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Exponentials and logarithms (AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A) (WJEC A-Level)
Related terms
- inverse functions
- solving exponential equations
- ambient temperature baseline
- carrying capacity
- combining logarithms
- Continuous change
- Differentiation of exponential functions
- domain restrictions
Using laws of logarithms in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Mathematics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge