When data is plotted on logarithmic scales, the numbers are typically represented with one of two formats.

1. The raw numbers themselves are plotted on a logarithmic axis.
2. The raw numbers are first converted to their log values (exponents of 10) and these are plotted on a linear axis.
   

The two scales above cover an identical range of numbers but differ in their utility as illustrated by two representations of the titration curve of acetic acid.

Both graphs represent exactly the same data.  In other words, they are there quantitatively equivalent.  However, the different formats provide easy access to different types of information about the titration. For example:

• By using the top plot, [H⁺] can be read directly from the X-axis; for example, at 45% saturation, [H⁺] = 1.0 x 10^-5.
• By using the bottom plot, [H⁺] must be calculated by taking the antilog of the negative value of the log value read from the X-axis; for example, at 45% saturation, [H⁺] = antilog (-5.0) = 10^-5.
• In contrast, the bottom plot is easier use for determining the pK_d of acetic acid, defined as the negative log of the dissociation constant, or -log ([H⁺]_50%) with [H⁺] at Ya = 50% saturation.  As read directly (right to left!) from the X-axis of the bottom plot, pKdn = 4.90 where Ya = 50% saturation.  
• With the top plot, the value read for [H⁺] at 50% saturation from the X-axis -- i.e., 1.25 x 10^-5 -- must be convert to the negative of its log value; 
  i.e., - log (1.25 x 10^-5) = - log (1.25) - log (10^-5) 
  = - log (1.25) + 5 = - log (5/4) + 5 = - log (5) + log (4) + 5
  = - 0.7 + 2 x 0.3 + 5 =  - 0.7 + 0.6 + 5 = - 0.1 + 5 = 4.9 = pKdn

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©	Duane W. Sears Revised: September 30, 2010