Re: [Phys-l] Help! An explanation for the laity

[Carl Mungan <mungan@usna.edu>]

> What he means is why is a log used

Because it's the inverse of an exponential.
Why is an exponential used?
Because it's the special function whose value is equal to its slope everywhere.
Why is that useful?
Because the rate of change of quantity y is proportional to the amount y left.
--
Carl E Mungan, Assoc Prof of Physics  410-293-6680 (O) -3729 (F)
Naval Academy Stop 9c, 572C Holloway Rd, Annapolis MD 21402-5002
mailto:mungan@usna.edu     http://usna.edu/Users/physics/mungan/