This paper discusses the historical development of Napier's logarithms and their lack of a base with current logarithms, which employ a base 10.
Written in 2008; 2,090 words; 5 sources; MLA; $ 65.95
Paper Summary:
This paper explains that John Napier, in 1614, took an algebraic approach by defining logarithms as a ratio of two distances within a geometric pattern, base 1/e, which substituted for his lack of a base as in the currently used common logarithmic base 10. The author points out that the real benefit of these logarithms was that they simplified mathematical calculations by providing a shortcut for exponential factors just as exponents are a shortcut for multiplication. The paper relates that, since Napier's original logarithms lacked a common base, they were more consistently accurate but not as easy to manipulate as the common logarithms employed today. The author states that the common logarithms are much easier to calculate but only sufficiently accurate as compared to Napier's original logarithms. The paper includes graphs.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Historical Background
Napier's Logarithms
Base 10 Logarithms
Conclusion
From the Paper:
"While initially Napier's logarithms did not employ a base in the traditional sense he eventually adjusted his logarithms to account for a consistent base in much the same way they are currently employed today. Napier worked with another mathematician, a man by the name of Henry Briggs, to change his logarithmic forms to the form now currently common which is the L/e equation. Thus, Naperian logarithms now are described as points that are moving along a straight trajectory and indicated by units prescribed in length."
We have thousands of high-quality term papers, research papers, essays, book reports and dissertations on every topic. At AcaDemon, you can download those term papers to help you write yours! You can be sure that the term paper, essay, book report or research paper you download are top-quality, competitively priced and high-level work.
Look for more research papers, essays and book reports on Napier's Logarithms
If you can't find your topic here, try another search
or try our affordable, unique custom paper alternative
Custom Research Services include:
Papers written from scratch, according to your specifications. Every paper is UNIQUE - Guaranteed
This Free Term Paper Abstract is a part of our Term Paper Library.Here you can purchase research papers, examples of essays, academic dissertations, articles, notes, analytical papers, book reports, stories and poems. We have thousands of persuasive, point-of-view, narrative, critical, compare and contrast and other types of essays in our Library. You can also find here Term papers on "Napier's Logarithms", Essays on "Napier's Logarithms", Research papers on "Napier's Logarithms", Student papers on "Napier's Logarithms", Book reports on "Napier's Logarithms", Dissertation on "Napier's Logarithms", Thesis on "Napier's Logarithms", Summary of paper on "Napier's Logarithms", Articles written on "Napier's Logarithms".
Look for more research papers, essays and book reports on