A logarithm is a mathematical function that helps us understand how many times we need to multiply a certain number, called the base, to get another number. For example, in the expression log₂(8), we are asking, "How many times do we multiply 2 to get 8?" The answer is 3, because 2 × 2 × 2 = 8. Logarithms are useful in various fields, including science, engineering, and finance. Logarithms can simplify complex calculations, especially when dealing with large numbers. They convert multiplication into addition, making it easier to solve equations. There are different types of logarithms, such as common logarithms (base 10) and natural logarithms (base e). Understanding logarithms is essential for topics like exponential growth and decay, as they help describe how quantities change over time.