SEMI-LOG AND LOG-LOG

Lets take a closer look at the differences between semi-log and log-log graphs. PLOTTING ON LOGARITHMIC PAPER Logs are helpful when plotting certain types of data. There are two types of log graphs that can be used when plotting data. Semi-log Graph The first is called a semi-log graph. In a semi-log graph the y-axis is logarithmic, which means the separation between the ticks on the graph is proportional to the logarithm of numbers. The xaxis has a linear scale, which means the ticks are evenly spaced.

A semi-log graph is useful when graphing exponential functions. Consider a function of the form y ba . When graphed on semi-log paper, this function will produce a straight line with
x

slope log(a) and y-intercept log(b). _______________________________________________________________________ Example: Plot the function semi-log axis. Solution: Both functions below:

y 5x on an ordinary axis (x- and y- linear scales) as well as on a

(Ordinary axis)

(semi-log axis)

_______________________________________________________________________ Log-log Graph The second type is called a log-log graph. In a log-log graph, both the x-axis and the y-axis are logarithmic.

This is useful for determining power relationships. If a function of the form y ax is graphed
n

on log-log paper, a straight line will be produced, with slope n and y-intercept log(a).