logarithm etymology

Etymology:

  • "Logos" (Greek): "word", "ratio"
  • "Arithmos" (Greek): "number"

Meaning:

Logarithm is a mathematical term that refers to the power or exponent to which a base must be raised to produce a given number.

Origin:

The term "logarithm" was coined by the Scottish mathematician John Napier (1550-1617).

Napier's Concept of Logarithms:

Napier's original conception of logarithms involved a series of geometric proportions. He envisioned a line segment of unit length being divided into equal parts, forming a geometric progression. The numbers associated with each division represented the logarithms of the corresponding ratios.

Development of Modern Logarithms:

In the years following Napier's invention, other mathematicians, including Henry Briggs (1561-1630), developed the concept of common logarithms, where the base is 10. This simplified logarithmic calculations, making them more practical for various mathematical and scientific applications.

Applications of Logarithms:

Logarithms have found widespread applications in various fields, including:

  • Mathematics
  • Science (e.g., physics, chemistry)
  • Engineering
  • Computer science
  • Economics

logarithm relate terms

  • Logos

    Etymology The word logos comes from the Ancient Greek word λόγος lógos meani

  • logarithmic

    Etymology The word logarithmic is derived from the Greek words logos meaning word

  • logarithm

    Etymology Logos Greek word ratio Arithmos Greek number Meaning Log

  • power

    Etymology Old French pouer Latin potere to be able Proto Indo European root pot

  • exponent

    Etymology The word exponent comes from the Latin word exponere which means to set

  • index

    Etymology The word index is derived from the Latin word index which means indicator

  • zombie

    Etymology The word zombie derives from the Haitian Creole word zonbi which in turn i

  • hero

    Etymology The word hero originates from the Greek word ἥρως herōs which refe

  • evolution

    Etymology of Evolution The word evolution comes from the Latin word evolvere which

  • blunt

    Etymology Middle English blont blunt Old English blund Proto Germanic blundaz Prot

  • bachelor

    Etymology The word bachelor comes from the Old French word bacheler which in turn c

  • perceive

    Etymology Latin percipere to take hold of lay hold of Proto Indo European per