History of Logarithms

By javier.clark
  • 1544

    Michael Stifel ~ Exponents

    Stifel was first to name exponents and identify the methods and use of exponents in a book called, Arithmetica Integra.

  • John Napier ~ Algebraic Approach for Logarithms

    Napier founded the concept and method for working with the logarithmic function. According to (Murray, 2019), His purpose was to assist in the multiplication of quantities that were then called sines.

  • Joost Burgi ~ Geometric Approach for Logarithms

    According to (Murray, 2019), Burgi introduced the first table based on the concept of relating geometric and arithmetic sequences for logarithms. This is interesting because just six years prior, Napier was using an algebraic approach with logarithms. Burgi’s concepts can actually be found published in the book Prague.

  • Henry Biggs and John Napier ~ Collaboration

    Biggs is known for his collaboration with Napier to find a system of logarithms.

  • Jacob Bernoulli ~ Discovery of "e"

    Jacob Bernoulli who discovered the constant e. This is important because “e” is the inverse of the logarithmic function.

  • Present Day Use of Logarithms

    Logarithms are essential in many areas which include but are not limited to science, engineering, and business.