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Study Guides > College Algebra

Graphs of Logarithmic Functions

In Graphs of Exponential Functions, we saw how creating a graphical representation of an exponential model gives us another layer of insight for predicting future events. How do logarithmic graphs give us insight into situations? Because every logarithmic function is the inverse function of an exponential function, we can think of every output on a logarithmic graph as the input for the corresponding inverse exponential equation. In other words, logarithms give the cause for an effect. To illustrate, suppose we invest $2500 in an account that offers an annual interest rate of 5%, compounded continuously. We already know that the balance in our account for any year t can be found with the equation [latex]A=2500{e}^{0.05t}[/latex]. But what if we wanted to know the year for any balance? We would need to create a corresponding new function by interchanging the input and the output; thus we would need to create a logarithmic model for this situation. By graphing the model, we can see the output (year) for any input (account balance). For instance, what if we wanted to know how many years it would take for our initial investment to double? The graph below shows this point on the logarithmic graph. A graph titled, In this section we will discuss the values for which a logarithmic function is defined, and then turn our attention to graphing the family of logarithmic functions.

Characteristics of Graphs of Logarithmic Functions

Before working with graphs, we will take a look at the domain (the set of input values) for which the logarithmic function is defined. Recall that the exponential function is defined as [latex]y={b}^{x}[/latex] for any real number x and constant [latex]b>0[/latex], [latex]b\ne 1[/latex], where
  • The domain of y is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex].
  • The range of y is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex].
In the last section we learned that the logarithmic function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is the inverse of the exponential function [latex]y={b}^{x}[/latex]. So, as inverse functions:
  • The domain of [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is the range of [latex]y={b}^{x}[/latex]:[latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex].
  • The range of [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is the domain of [latex]y={b}^{x}[/latex]: [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex].
Transformations of the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] behave similarly to those of other functions. Just as with other parent functions, we can apply the four types of transformations—shifts, stretches, compressions, and reflections—to the parent function without loss of shape. In Graphs of Exponential Functions we saw that certain transformations can change the range of [latex]y={b}^{x}[/latex]. Similarly, applying transformations to the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] can change the domain. When finding the domain of a logarithmic function, therefore, it is important to remember that the domain consists only of positive real numbers. That is, the argument of the logarithmic function must be greater than zero. For example, consider [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{4}\left(2x - 3\right)[/latex]. This function is defined for any values of x such that the argument, in this case [latex]2x - 3[/latex], is greater than zero. To find the domain, we set up an inequality and solve for x:

[latex]\begin{array}{l}2x - 3>0\hfill & \text{Show the argument greater than zero}.\hfill \\ 2x>3\hfill & \text{Add 3}.\hfill \\ x>1.5\hfill & \text{Divide by 2}.\hfill \end{array}[/latex]

In interval notation, the domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{4}\left(2x - 3\right)[/latex] is [latex]\left(1.5,\infty \right)[/latex].

How To: Given a logarithmic function, identify the domain.

  1. Set up an inequality showing the argument greater than zero.
  2. Solve for x.
  3. Write the domain in interval notation.

Example: Identifying the Domain of a Logarithmic Shift

What is the domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x+3\right)[/latex]?

Answer:

[latex]\begin{array}{l}x+3>0\hfill & \text{The input must be positive}.\hfill \\ x>-3\hfill & \text{Subtract 3}.\hfill \end{array}[/latex]

  The logarithmic function is defined only when the input is positive, so this function is defined when [latex]x+3>0[/latex]. The domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x+3\right)[/latex] is [latex]\left(-3,\infty \right)[/latex].

Try It

What is the domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{5}\left(x - 2\right)+1[/latex]?

Answer: [latex]\left(2,\infty \right)[/latex]

Example: Identifying the Domain of a Logarithmic Shift and Reflection

What is the domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)=\mathrm{log}\left(5 - 2x\right)[/latex]?

Answer: The logarithmic function is defined only when the input is positive, so this function is defined when [latex]5 - 2x>0[/latex]. Solving this inequality,

[latex]\begin{array}{l}5 - 2x>0\hfill & \text{The input must be positive}.\hfill \\ -2x>-5\hfill & \text{Subtract }5.\hfill \\ x<\frac{5}{2}\hfill & \text{Divide by }-2\text{ and switch the inequality}.\hfill \end{array}[/latex]

The domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)=\mathrm{log}\left(5 - 2x\right)[/latex] is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\frac{5}{2}\right)[/latex].

Try It

What is the domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)=\mathrm{log}\left(x - 5\right)+2[/latex]?

Answer: [latex]\left(5,\infty \right)[/latex]

Graph a logarithmic function using a table of values

Now that we have a feel for the set of values for which a logarithmic function is defined, we move on to graphing logarithmic functions. The family of logarithmic functions includes the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] along with all its transformations: shifts, stretches, compressions, and reflections. We begin with the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]. Because every logarithmic function of this form is the inverse of an exponential function with the form [latex]y={b}^{x}[/latex], their graphs will be reflections of each other across the line [latex]y=x[/latex]. To illustrate this, we can observe the relationship between the input and output values of [latex]y={2}^{x}[/latex] and its equivalent [latex]x={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(y\right)[/latex] in the table below.
x –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3
[latex]{2}^{x}=y[/latex] [latex]\frac{1}{8}[/latex] [latex]\frac{1}{4}[/latex] [latex]\frac{1}{2}[/latex] 1 2 4 8
[latex]{\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(y\right)=x[/latex] –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3
Using the inputs and outputs from the table above, we can build another table to observe the relationship between points on the graphs of the inverse functions [latex]f\left(x\right)={2}^{x}[/latex] and [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x\right)[/latex].
[latex]f\left(x\right)={2}^{x}[/latex] [latex]\left(-3,\frac{1}{8}\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(-2,\frac{1}{4}\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(-1,\frac{1}{2}\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(0,1\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(1,2\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(2,4\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(3,8\right)[/latex]
[latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(\frac{1}{8},-3\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(\frac{1}{4},-2\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(\frac{1}{2},-1\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(2,1\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(4,2\right)[/latex] [latex]\left(8,3\right)[/latex]
As we’d expect, the x- and y-coordinates are reversed for the inverse functions. The figure below shows the graph of f and g.
Graph of two functions, f(x)=2^x and g(x)=log_2(x), with the line y=x denoting the axis of symmetry. Notice that the graphs of [latex]f\left(x\right)={2}^{x}[/latex] and [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x\right)[/latex] are reflections about the line y = x.
Observe the following from the graph:
  • [latex]f\left(x\right)={2}^{x}[/latex] has a y-intercept at [latex]\left(0,1\right)[/latex] and [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x\right)[/latex] has an x-intercept at [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex].
  • The domain of [latex]f\left(x\right)={2}^{x}[/latex], [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], is the same as the range of [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x\right)[/latex].
  • The range of [latex]f\left(x\right)={2}^{x}[/latex], [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], is the same as the domain of [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x\right)[/latex].

A General Note: Characteristics of the Graph of the Parent Function, f(x) = logb(x)

For any real number x and constant b > 0, [latex]b\ne 1[/latex], we can see the following characteristics in the graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]:
  • one-to-one function
  • vertical asymptote: x = 0
  • domain: [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex]
  • range: [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex]
  • x-intercept: [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex] and key point [latex]\left(b,1\right)[/latex]
  • y-intercept: none
  • increasing if [latex]b>1[/latex]
  • decreasing if 0 < b < 1

Try it

Use the sliders in the graph below to investigate the how changes in the base of the logarithm change the graph of the function. Which function is an increasing function?  Which is decreasing? Does the x-intercept change when you change the base? https://www.desmos.com/calculator/pajb6u9zzj
The graphs above show how changing the base b in [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] can affect the graphs. Observe that the graphs compress vertically as the value of the base increases. (Note: recall that the function [latex]\mathrm{ln}\left(x\right)[/latex] has base [latex]e\approx \text{2}.\text{718.)}[/latex]
Graph of three equations: y=log_2(x) in blue, y=ln(x) in orange, and y=log(x) in red. The y-axis is the asymptote. The graphs of three logarithmic functions with different bases, all greater than 1.

How To: Given a logarithmic function with the form [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex], graph the function.

  1. Draw and label the vertical asymptote, x = 0.
  2. Plot the x-intercept, [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex].
  3. Plot the key point [latex]\left(b,1\right)[/latex].
  4. Draw a smooth curve through the points.
  5. State the domain, [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range, [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote, x = 0.

Example: Graphing a Logarithmic Function with the Form [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex].

Graph [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{5}\left(x\right)[/latex]. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: Before graphing, identify the behavior and key points for the graph.

  • Since b = 5 is greater than one, we know the function is increasing. The left tail of the graph will approach the vertical asymptote x = 0, and the right tail will increase slowly without bound.
  • The x-intercept is [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex].
  • The key point [latex]\left(5,1\right)[/latex] is on the graph.
  • We draw and label the asymptote, plot and label the points, and draw a smooth curve through the points.
Graph of f(x)=log_5(x) with labeled points at (1, 0) and (5, 1). The y-axis is the asymptote. The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0.

Try It

Graph [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{\frac{1}{5}}\left(x\right)[/latex]. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0. Graph of f(x)=log_(1/5)(x) with labeled points at (1/5, 1) and (1, 0). The y-axis is the asymptote.

 

Horizontal and Vertical Shifts of Logarithmic Functions

As we mentioned in the beginning of the section, transformations of logarithmic graphs behave similarly to those of other parent functions. We can shift, stretch, compress, and reflect the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] without loss of shape.

Graphing a Horizontal Shift of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

When a constant c is added to the input of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex], the result is a horizontal shift c units in the opposite direction of the sign on c. To visualize horizontal shifts, we can observe the general graph of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] and for c > 0 alongside the shift left, [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)[/latex], and the shift right, [latex]h\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x-c\right)[/latex].

TRY IT

In the graphs below, you can use the slider for the variable c to investigate horizontal shifts that are produced by either adding or subtracting a constant from the input of a logarithmic function. The function [latex]f(x) = \log_{b}{x+c}[/latex] represents adding c units to the input of the function, and the function [latex]g(x) = \log_{b}{x-c}[/latex] represents subtracting c units from the input of the function. Investigate the following questions:
  • Adjust the slider for c to 4.
  • Which direction does the graph of [latex]f(x)[/latex]shift? What is the vertical asymptote, x-intercept, and equation for this new function? How do the domain and range change?
  • Which direction does the graph of [latex]g(x)[/latex] shift? What is the vertical asymptote, x-intercept, and equation for this new function? How do the domain and range change?
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/6drjq3bh0m
The still graphs below summarize the changes in the x-intercepts, vertical asymptotes, and equations of a logarithmic function that has been shifted either right or left. Graph of two functions. The parent function is f(x)=log_b(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and g(x)=log_b(x+c) is the translation function with an asymptote at x=-c. This shows the translation of shifting left.

A General Note: Horizontal Shifts of the Parent Function [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

For any constant c, the function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)[/latex]
  • shifts the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] left c units if c > 0.
  • shifts the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] right c units if c < 0.
  • has the vertical asymptote x = –c.
  • has domain [latex]\left(-c,\infty \right)[/latex].
  • has range [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex].

How To: Given a logarithmic function with the form [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)[/latex], graph the translation.

  1. Identify the horizontal shift:
    1. If c > 0, shift the graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] left c units.
    2. If c < 0, shift the graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] right c units.
  2. Draw the vertical asymptote x = –c.
  3. Identify three key points from the parent function. Find new coordinates for the shifted functions by subtracting c from the x coordinate.
  4. Label the three points.
  5. The Domain is [latex]\left(-c,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = –c.

Example: Graphing a Horizontal Shift of the Parent Function [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

Sketch the horizontal shift [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x - 2\right)[/latex] alongside its parent function. Include the key points and asymptotes on the graph. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: Since the function is [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x - 2\right)[/latex], we notice [latex]x+\left(-2\right)=x - 2[/latex]. Thus c = –2, so c < 0. This means we will shift the function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x\right)[/latex] right 2 units. The vertical asymptote is [latex]x=-\left(-2\right)[/latex] or x = 2. Consider the three key points from the parent function, [latex]\left(\frac{1}{3},-1\right)[/latex], [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex], and [latex]\left(3,1\right)[/latex]. The new coordinates are found by adding 2 to the x coordinates. Label the points [latex]\left(\frac{7}{3},-1\right)[/latex], [latex]\left(3,0\right)[/latex], and [latex]\left(5,1\right)[/latex]. The domain is [latex]\left(2,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 2. Graph of two functions. The parent function is y=log_3(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1/3, -1), (1, 0), and (3, 1).The translation function f(x)=log_3(x-2) has an asymptote at x=2 and labeled points at (3, 0) and (5, 1).

Try It

Sketch a graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x+4\right)[/latex] alongside its parent function. Include the key points and asymptotes on the graph. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: The domain is [latex]\left(-4,\infty \right)[/latex], the range [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the asymptote x = –4. Graph of two functions. The parent function is y=log_3(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0), and (3, 1).The translation function f(x)=log_3(x+4) has an asymptote at x=-4 and labeled points at (-3, 0) and (-1, 1).

Graphing a Vertical Shift of [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

When a constant d is added to the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex], the result is a vertical shift d units in the direction of the sign on d. To visualize vertical shifts, we can observe the general graph of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] alongside the shift up, [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)+d[/latex] and the shift down, [latex]h\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)-d[/latex]. Graph of two functions. The parent function is f(x)=log_b(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and g(x)=log_b(x)+d is the translation function with an asymptote at x=0. This shows the translation of shifting up. Graph of two functions. The parent function is f(x)=log_b(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and g(x)=log_b(x)-d is the translation function with an asymptote at x=0. This shows the translation of shifting down.

A General Note: Vertical Shifts of the Parent Function [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

For any constant d, the function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)+d[/latex]
  • shifts the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] up d units if d > 0.
  • shifts the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] down d units if d < 0.
  • has the vertical asymptote x = 0.
  • has domain [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex].
  • has range [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex].

How To: Given a logarithmic function with the form [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)+d[/latex], graph the translation.

  1. Identify the vertical shift:
    1. If d > 0, shift the graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] up d units.
    2. If d < 0, shift the graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] down d units.
  2. Draw the vertical asymptote x = 0.
  3. Identify three key points from the parent function. Find new coordinates for the shifted functions by adding d to the y coordinate.
  4. Label the three points.
  5. The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0.

Example: Graphing a Vertical Shift of the Parent Function [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

Sketch a graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x\right)-2[/latex] alongside its parent function. Include the key points and asymptote on the graph. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: Since the function is [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x\right)-2[/latex], we will notice d = –2. Thus d < 0. This means we will shift the function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x\right)[/latex] down 2 units. The vertical asymptote is x = 0. Consider the three key points from the parent function, [latex]\left(\frac{1}{3},-1\right)[/latex], [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex], and [latex]\left(3,1\right)[/latex]. The new coordinates are found by subtracting 2 from the y coordinates. Label the points [latex]\left(\frac{1}{3},-3\right)[/latex], [latex]\left(1,-2\right)[/latex], and [latex]\left(3,-1\right)[/latex].

Graph of two functions. The parent function is y=log_3(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1/3, -1), (1, 0), and (3, 1).The translation function f(x)=log_3(x)-2 has an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0) and (3, 1). The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0.

Try It

Sketch a graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{2}\left(x\right)+2[/latex] alongside its parent function. Include the key points and asymptote on the graph. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0. Graph of two functions. The parent function is y=log_2(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0), and (2, 1).The translation function f(x)=log_2(x)+2 has an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (0.25, 0) and (0.5, 1).

Stretch, Compress, or Reflect a Logarithmic Function

Graphing Stretches and Compressions of [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

When the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is multiplied by a constant a > 0, the result is a vertical stretch or compression of the original graph. To visualize stretches and compressions, we set a > 1 and observe the general graph of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] alongside the vertical stretch, [latex]g\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] and the vertical compression, [latex]h\left(x\right)=\frac{1}{a}{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex].

try it

In the graph below, you can explore how to produce vertical stretches and compressions of a logarithmic function.  The function [latex]g(x) = a\log_{b}{x}[/latex] represents a vertical stretch, and the function [latex]f(x) = \frac{1}{a}\log_{b}{x}[/latex] represents a vertical compression. As you investigate, consider the following questions;
  • Both the vertical stretch and compression produce graphs that are increasing. Which transformation produces a function that increases faster?
  • One of the key points that is commonly defined for transformations of a logarithmic function comes from finding the input that gives an output of [latex]y = 1[/latex]. This point can help you determine whether a graph is the result of a vertical compression or stretch. Explain why.
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/arlodqq7be
The still graphs below summarize the key features of the resulting graphs of vertical stretches and compressions of logarithmic functions.

A General Note: Vertical Stretches and Compressions of the Parent Function [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

For any constant a > 1, the function [latex]f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]
  • stretches the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] vertically by a factor of a if a > 1.
  • compresses the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] vertically by a factor of a if 0 < a < 1.
  • has the vertical asymptote x = 0.
  • has the x-intercept [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex].
  • has domain [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex].
  • has range [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex].

How To: Given a logarithmic function with the form [latex]f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex], [latex]a>0[/latex], graph the translation.

  1. Identify the vertical stretch or compressions:
    1. If [latex]|a|>1[/latex], the graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is stretched by a factor of a units.
    2. If [latex]|a|<1[/latex], the graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is compressed by a factor of a units.
  2. Draw the vertical asymptote x = 0.
  3. Identify three key points from the parent function. Find new coordinates for the shifted functions by multiplying the y coordinates by a.
  4. Label the three points.
  5. The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0.

Example: Graphing a Stretch or Compression of the Parent Function [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

Sketch a graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)=2{\mathrm{log}}_{4}\left(x\right)[/latex] alongside its parent function. Include the key points and asymptote on the graph. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: Since the function is [latex]f\left(x\right)=2{\mathrm{log}}_{4}\left(x\right)[/latex], we will notice a = 2. This means we will stretch the function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{4}\left(x\right)[/latex] by a factor of 2. The vertical asymptote is x = 0. Consider the three key points from the parent function, [latex]\left(\frac{1}{4},-1\right)[/latex], [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex], and [latex]\left(4,1\right)[/latex]. The new coordinates are found by multiplying the y coordinates by 2. Label the points [latex]\left(\frac{1}{4},-2\right)[/latex], [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex], and [latex]\left(4,\text{2}\right)[/latex].

Graph of two functions. The parent function is y=log_4(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0), and (4, 1).The translation function f(x)=2log_4(x) has an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0) and (2, 1). The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0.

Try It

Sketch a graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)=\frac{1}{2}{\mathrm{log}}_{4}\left(x\right)[/latex] alongside its parent function. Include the key points and asymptote on the graph. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: The domain is [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)\\[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)\\[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0. Graph of two functions. The parent function is y=log_4(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0), and (4, 1).The translation function f(x)=(1/2)log_4(x) has an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0) and (16, 1).

Example: Combining a Shift and a Stretch

Sketch a graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)=5\mathrm{log}\left(x+2\right)[/latex]. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: Remember: what happens inside parentheses happens first. First, we move the graph left 2 units, then stretch the function vertically by a factor of 5. The vertical asymptote will be shifted to x = –2. The x-intercept will be [latex]\left(-1,0\right)[/latex]. The domain will be [latex]\left(-2,\infty \right)[/latex]. Two points will help give the shape of the graph: [latex]\left(-1,0\right)[/latex] and [latex]\left(8,5\right)[/latex]. We chose x = 8 as the x-coordinate of one point to graph because when x = 8, x + 2 = 10, the base of the common logarithm.

Graph of three functions. The parent function is y=log(x), with an asymptote at x=0. The first translation function y=5log(x+2) has an asymptote at x=-2. The second translation function y=log(x+2) has an asymptote at x=-2. The domain is [latex]\left(-2,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = –2.

Try It

Sketch a graph of the function [latex]f\left(x\right)=3\mathrm{log}\left(x - 2\right)+1[/latex]. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: The domain is [latex]\left(2,\infty \right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 2. Graph of f(x)=3log(x-2)+1 with an asymptote at x=2.

Graphing Reflections of [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

When the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is multiplied by –1, the result is a reflection about the x-axis. When the input is multiplied by –1, the result is a reflection about the y-axis. To visualize reflections, we restrict b > 1, and observe the general graph of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] alongside the reflection about the x-axis, [latex]g\left(x\right)={\mathrm{-log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] and the reflection about the y-axis, [latex]h\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(-x\right)[/latex].

Try it

The functions [latex]f(x) = \log_{b}{x},g(x) = -\log_{b}{x}, h(x) = \log_{b}{-x} [/latex] are graphed below. The point of interest for the function [latex]f(x)[/latex] has also been added. Consider the following questions:
  • Which graph, [latex]g(x) = -\log_{b}{x}, \text{ or }h(x) = \log_{b}{-x}[/latex] represents a vertical reflection?  Which one represents a horizontal reflection?
  • The point [latex](b,1)[/latex] has been added as a point of interest for the function [latex]f(x)[/latex]. Using the variable b as your x value, add the corresponding points of interest for [latex]g(x),\text{ and }h(x)[/latex].
  • Does the vertical asymptote change when you reflect the graph of [latex]f(x)[/latex] either vertically or horizontally?
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/5qmaorrlst
The still graphs below summarize the key characteristics of reflecting [latex]f(x) = \log_{b}{x}[/latex] horizontally and vertically.

A General Note: Reflections of the Parent Function [latex]y=\text{log}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]

The function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{-log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]
  • reflects the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] about the x-axis.
  • has domain, [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], range, [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and vertical asymptote, x = 0, which are unchanged from the parent function.
The function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(-x\right)[/latex]
  • reflects the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] about the y-axis.
  • has domain [latex]\left(-\infty ,0\right)[/latex].
  • has range, [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and vertical asymptote, x = 0, which are unchanged from the parent function.

How To: Given a logarithmic function with the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex], graph a translation.

[latex]\text{If }f\left(x\right)=-{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] [latex]\text{If }f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(-x\right)[/latex]
1. Draw the vertical asymptote, x = 0. 1. Draw the vertical asymptote, x = 0.
2. Plot the x-intercept, [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex]. 2. Plot the x-intercept, [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex].
3. Reflect the graph of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] about the x-axis. 3. Reflect the graph of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] about the y-axis.
4. Draw a smooth curve through the points. 4. Draw a smooth curve through the points.
5. State the domain, [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], the range, [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote x = 0. 5. State the domain, [latex]\left(-\infty ,0\right)[/latex], the range, [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote x = 0.

Example: Graphing a Reflection of a Logarithmic Function

Sketch a graph of [latex]f\left(x\right)=\mathrm{log}\left(-x\right)[/latex] alongside its parent function. Include the key points and asymptote on the graph. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: Before graphing [latex]f\left(x\right)=\mathrm{log}\left(-x\right)[/latex], identify the behavior and key points for the graph.

  • Since b = 10 is greater than one, we know that the parent function is increasing. Since the input value is multiplied by –1, f is a reflection of the parent graph about the y-axis. Thus, [latex]f\left(x\right)=\mathrm{log}\left(-x\right)[/latex] will be decreasing as x moves from negative infinity to zero, and the right tail of the graph will approach the vertical asymptote x = 0.
  • The x-intercept is [latex]\left(-1,0\right)[/latex].
  • We draw and label the asymptote, plot and label the points, and draw a smooth curve through the points.
Graph of two functions. The parent function is y=log(x), with an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (1, 0), and (10, 0).The translation function f(x)=log(-x) has an asymptote at x=0 and labeled points at (-1, 0) and (-10, 1). The domain is [latex]\left(-\infty ,0\right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0.

Try It

Graph [latex]f\left(x\right)=-\mathrm{log}\left(-x\right)[/latex]. State the domain, range, and asymptote.

Answer: The domain is [latex]\left(-\infty ,0\right)[/latex], the range is [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], and the vertical asymptote is x = 0. Graph of f(x)=-log(-x) with an asymptote at x=0.

How To: Given a logarithmic equation, use a graphing calculator to approximate solutions.

  1. Press [Y=]. Enter the given logarithm equation or equations as Y1= and, if needed, Y2=.
  2. Press [GRAPH] to observe the graphs of the curves and use [WINDOW] to find an appropriate view of the graphs, including their point(s) of intersection.
  3. To find the value of x, we compute the point of intersection. Press [2ND] then [CALC]. Select "intersect" and press [ENTER] three times. The point of intersection gives the value of x, for the point(s) of intersection.

Example: Approximating the Solution of a Logarithmic Equation

Solve [latex]4\mathrm{ln}\left(x\right)+1=-2\mathrm{ln}\left(x - 1\right)[/latex] graphically. Round to the nearest thousandth.

Answer: Press [Y=] and enter [latex]4\mathrm{ln}\left(x\right)+1[/latex] next to Y1=. Then enter [latex]-2\mathrm{ln}\left(x - 1\right)[/latex] next to Y2=. For a window, use the values 0 to 5 for x and –10 to 10 for y. Press [GRAPH]. The graphs should intersect somewhere a little to right of x = 1. For a better approximation, press [2ND] then [CALC]. Select [5: intersect] and press [ENTER] three times. The x-coordinate of the point of intersection is displayed as 1.3385297. (Your answer may be different if you use a different window or use a different value for Guess?) So, to the nearest thousandth, [latex]x\approx 1.339[/latex].

Try It

Solve [latex]5\mathrm{log}\left(x+2\right)=4-\mathrm{log}\left(x\right)[/latex] graphically. Round to the nearest thousandth.

Answer: [latex]x\approx 3.049[/latex]

Summarizing Translations of the Logarithmic Function

Now that we have worked with each type of translation for the logarithmic function, we can summarize each in the table below to arrive at the general equation for translating exponential functions.
Translations of the Parent Function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]
Translation Form
Shift
  • Horizontally c units to the left
  • Vertically d units up
 [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)+d[/latex]
Stretch and Compress
  • Stretch if [latex]|a|>1[/latex]
  • Compression if [latex]|a|<1[/latex]
 [latex]y=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]
Reflect about the x-axis [latex]y=-{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]
Reflect about the y-axis [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(-x\right)[/latex]
General equation for all translations [latex]y=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)+d[/latex]

A General Note: Translations of Logarithmic Functions

All translations of the parent logarithmic function, [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex], have the form [latex-display] f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)+d[/latex-display] where the parent function, [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right),b>1[/latex], is
  • shifted vertically up d units.
  • shifted horizontally to the left c units.
  • stretched vertically by a factor of |a| if |a| > 0.
  • compressed vertically by a factor of |a| if 0 < |a| < 1.
  • reflected about the x-axis when a < 0.
For [latex]f\left(x\right)=\mathrm{log}\left(-x\right)[/latex], the graph of the parent function is reflected about the y-axis.

Example: Finding the Vertical Asymptote of a Logarithm Graph

What is the vertical asymptote of [latex]f\left(x\right)=-2{\mathrm{log}}_{3}\left(x+4\right)+5[/latex]?

Answer: The vertical asymptote is at x = –4.

Analysis of the Solution

The coefficient, the base, and the upward translation do not affect the asymptote. The shift of the curve 4 units to the left shifts the vertical asymptote to x = –4.

Try It

What is the vertical asymptote of [latex]f\left(x\right)=3+\mathrm{ln}\left(x - 1\right)[/latex]?

Answer: [latex]x=1[/latex]

Example: Finding the Equation from a Graph

Find a possible equation for the common logarithmic function graphed below. Graph of a logarithmic function with a vertical asymptote at x=-2, has been vertically reflected, and passes through the points (-1, 1) and (2, -1).

Answer: This graph has a vertical asymptote at x = –2 and has been vertically reflected. We do not know yet the vertical shift or the vertical stretch. We know so far that the equation will have form:

[latex]f\left(x\right)=-a\mathrm{log}\left(x+2\right)+k[/latex]

It appears the graph passes through the points [latex]\left(-1,1\right)[/latex] and [latex]\left(2,-1\right)[/latex]. Substituting [latex]\left(-1,1\right)[/latex],

[latex]\begin{cases}1=-a\mathrm{log}\left(-1+2\right)+k\hfill & \text{Substitute }\left(-1,1\right).\hfill \\ 1=-a\mathrm{log}\left(1\right)+k\hfill & \text{Arithmetic}.\hfill \\ 1=k\hfill & \text{log(1)}=0.\hfill \end{cases}[/latex]

Next, substituting in [latex]\left(2,-1\right)[/latex],

[latex]\begin{cases}-1=-a\mathrm{log}\left(2+2\right)+1\hfill & \hfill & \text{Plug in }\left(2,-1\right).\hfill \\ -2=-a\mathrm{log}\left(4\right)\hfill & \hfill & \text{Arithmetic}.\hfill \\ \text{ }a=\frac{2}{\mathrm{log}\left(4\right)}\hfill & \hfill & \text{Solve for }a.\hfill \end{cases}[/latex]

This gives us the equation [latex]f\left(x\right)=-\frac{2}{\mathrm{log}\left(4\right)}\mathrm{log}\left(x+2\right)+1[/latex].

Analysis of the Solution

We can verify this answer by comparing the function values in the table below with the points on the graph in this example.
x −1 0 1 2 3
f(x) 1 0 −0.58496 −1 −1.3219
x 4 5 6 7 8
f(x) −1.5850 −1.8074 −2 −2.1699 −2.3219

Try It

Give the equation of the natural logarithm graphed below. Graph of a logarithmic function with a vertical asymptote at x=-3, has been vertically stretched by 2, and passes through the points (-1, -1).

Answer: [latex]f\left(x\right)=2\mathrm{ln}\left(x+3\right)-1[/latex]

Q & A

Is it possible to tell the domain and range and describe the end behavior of a function just by looking at the graph? Yes, if we know the function is a general logarithmic function. For example, look at the graph in the last Try It. The graph approaches x = –3 (or thereabouts) more and more closely, so x = –3 is, or is very close to, the vertical asymptote. It approaches from the right, so the domain is all points to the right, [latex]\left\{x|x>-3\right\}[/latex]. The range, as with all general logarithmic functions, is all real numbers. And we can see the end behavior because the graph goes down as it goes left and up as it goes right. The end behavior is that as [latex]x\to -{3}^{+},f\left(x\right)\to -\infty [/latex] and as [latex]x\to \infty ,f\left(x\right)\to \infty [/latex].
 

Key Equations

General Form for the Translation of the Parent Logarithmic Function [latex]\text{ }f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] [latex] f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)+d[/latex]

Key Concepts

  • To find the domain of a logarithmic function, set up an inequality showing the argument greater than zero, and solve for x.
  • The graph of the parent function [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] has an x-intercept at [latex]\left(1,0\right)[/latex], domain [latex]\left(0,\infty \right)[/latex], range [latex]\left(-\infty ,\infty \right)[/latex], vertical asymptote x = 0, and
    • if b > 1, the function is increasing.
    • if 0 < b < 1, the function is decreasing.
  • The equation [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)[/latex] shifts the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] horizontally
    • left c units if c > 0.
    • right c units if c < 0.
  • The equation [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)+d[/latex] shifts the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] vertically
    • up d units if d > 0.
    • down d units if d < 0.
  • For any constant a > 0, the equation [latex]f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex]
    • stretches the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] vertically by a factor of a if |a| > 1.
    • compresses the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] vertically by a factor of a if |a| < 1.
  • When the parent function [latex]y={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] is multiplied by –1, the result is a reflection about the x-axis. When the input is multiplied by –1, the result is a reflection about the y-axis.
    • The equation [latex]f\left(x\right)=-{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x\right)[/latex] represents a reflection of the parent function about the x-axis.
    • The equation [latex]f\left(x\right)={\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(-x\right)[/latex] represents a reflection of the parent function about the y-axis.
    • A graphing calculator may be used to approximate solutions to some logarithmic equations.
  • All translations of the logarithmic function can be summarized by the general equation [latex] f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)+d[/latex].
  • Given an equation with the general form [latex] f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)+d[/latex], we can identify the vertical asymptote x = –c for the transformation.
  • Using the general equation [latex]f\left(x\right)=a{\mathrm{log}}_{b}\left(x+c\right)+d[/latex], we can write the equation of a logarithmic function given its graph.

Licenses & Attributions

CC licensed content, Original

  • Revision and Adaptation. Provided by: Lumen Learning License: CC BY: Attribution.
  • Characteristics of Graphs of Logarithmic Functions Interactive. Authored by: Lumen Learning. Located at: https://www.desmos.com/calculator/pajb6u9zzj. License: Public Domain: No Known Copyright.
  • Horizontal and Vertical Shifts of Logarithmic Functions Interactive. Authored by: Lumen Learning. Located at: https://www.desmos.com/calculator/6drjq3bh0m. License: Public Domain: No Known Copyright.
  • Vertical Stretch and Compression of a Logarithmic Function Interactive. Authored by: Lumen Learning. Located at: https://www.desmos.com/calculator/arlodqq7be. License: Public Domain: No Known Copyright.
  • Reflections of Logarithmic Functions Interactive. Authored by: Lumen Learning. Located at: https://www.desmos.com/calculator/5qmaorrlst. License: Public Domain: No Known Copyright.

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