2.36 = - logx

solve for x

Here's what you have to keep saying to yourself until it carves a new

groove into your brain and you don't have to think about it any more:

" log (x) = the power that 10 must be raised to

in order to wind up with 'x'. "

You said 2.36 = - log (x)

Multiply each side by - 1 : log (x) = - 2.36

Now translate it into the mantra:

The power that 10 must be raised to

in order to wind up with 'x' is - 2.36.

Do you see what that means?!?

If the power that 10 must be raised to in order to wind up with 'x'

is - 2.36, then all you have to do to find 'x' is raise 10 to the power

of - 2.36! You can do that with about 4 clicks on your calculator.

10^ (-2.36) = 0.004365 ... (rounded)

And if you don't quite believe it, it's even easier to check it.

Punch " 0.004365 " into your calculator, and then touch the

" 10^x " key, and something very close to - 2.36 will pop up

right there, before your wondrous eyes.