Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The definition of a logarithm is the inverse of exponentiation. If $\log_{\text{base}} (\text{result}) = \text{exponent}$, then $\text{base}^{\text{exponent}} = \text{result}$.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Given: $\log_a b = 2$
The base is $a$.
The exponent is $2$.
The result (argument) is $b$.
Converting to exponential form: $a^2 = b$.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (a).