Math621A_Chp7_1_ExplCharExpFunc_W2016_wNotes.notebook

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April 21, 2016

Chp. 7.1 Exploring the Characteristics of Exponential Functions

Exponential function: A function of the form

y = a(b)x

where a = 0, b > 0 and b = 1

Let's explore the following graphs and fill in the table below;

What have you noticed about the characteristics of exponential functions?

Math621A_Chp7_1_ExplCharExpFunc_W2016_wNotes.notebook

2

April 21, 2016

All Exponential functions of the form f(x) = a(b)x, where a > 0, b > 0, and b = 1, have the following characteristics

There are two different shapes that the graphs of an exponential function can have;

Complete exercises: p. 439 # 1-3 Make a table of values for #3 to construct your graph.

Examine the exponential functions on the last page and determine what part determines whether or not the function increases or decreases.