This lesson covers the exponential function e to the x and the natural logarithm function ln x. The number e is defined as the limit of the expression 1 + 1/p^p as p approaches infinity and is approximately equal to 2.71828. The exponential function with base e behaves similarly to other exponential functions, but has important properties such as e to the 0 equals 1 and its derivative is equal to e to the x. The natural logarithm is the inverse of the exponential function, and has a derivative of 1/x. Properties of exponential functions and logarithms are also covered.
Early Transcendental extra video lecture including exponentials and the natural logarithm.
Copyright 2005, Department of Mathematics, University of Houston. Created by Selwyn Hollis. Find more information on videos, resources, and lessons at http://online.math.uh.edu/HoustonACT/videocalculus/index.html.