The natural logarithm, denoted as ln, is a mathematical function that helps us understand exponential growth and decay. It is the logarithm to the base e, where e is an irrational number approximately equal to 2.71828. The natural logarithm is commonly used in various fields, including mathematics, physics, and finance, to solve problems involving exponential relationships. One key property of the natural logarithm is that it converts multiplication into addition. For example, ln(xy) = ln(x) + ln(y). This property makes it easier to work with complex equations. Additionally, the natural logarithm is the inverse of the exponential function, meaning that if y = e^x, then x = ln(y).