# For what values of $a$ is $\log_a(n)$ is $Big$ $\Theta$ $(\log_2(n))$

I should end up with a range for $a$, but I end up with a single value for $a$ after evaluating $Big$ $O$ and $Big$ $\Omega$.

Problem: Prove $\log_a(n)$ is $Big$ $\Theta$ $(\log_2(n))$. For which range of values of a is this true?

UPDATE: My work so far...

For $Big$ $O$:

$\log_a(n) \leq c * \log_2(n)$

$\frac{\log_2(n)}{\log_2(a)} \leq c * \log_2(n)$

$2^\frac{1}{c} \leq a$

For $Big$ $\Omega$:

$2^\frac{1}{c} \geq a$

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I tried to edit your post but suddenly I realized I can't: I just don't understand it.Please do type with LaTeX as supported in this forum. –  DonAntonio Sep 19 '12 at 11:17
I modified the post to fit LaTeX syntax. Please let me know if it still isn't clear. –  Stone Sep 19 '12 at 11:29
You know that $\log_a n = \frac{\log_2 n}{\log_2 a}$? –  martini Sep 19 '12 at 11:31
Right, I just updated the post with my work. I'm sure I have to do a log base conversion, but I'm not sure where to go from there. I think I'm lacking some conceptual understanding of how to approach the problem... –  Stone Sep 19 '12 at 11:40

$$\log_an=\mathcal O(\log_2 n)\,\,?$$
$$\log_an=\frac{\log_2n}{\log_2a}=\mathcal O (\log_2 n)\Longleftrightarrow \frac{1}{\log_2a}\,\,\,\text{is bounded}$$
Well, $\,\log_2a\,$ is a constant , so...(of course, the basic assumption is $\,1<a\neq 1\,$)
OH! That makes sense. Thanks! And $a$ can't be a decimal because in order for $Big$ $\Omega$ to be true, $a$ needs to be positive which would require placing an upper bound on $n$? –  Stone Sep 19 '12 at 12:13