Exponential Functions
Understanding Growth, Decay, and Their Applications
What is an Exponential Function?
An exponential function has the form:
f(x) = a·b^x
• a = starting value
• b = base (growth factor)
• x = exponent (variable)
Growth vs Decay
• If b > 1 → Exponential Growth (rapid increase)
• If 0 < b < 1 → Exponential Decay (rapid decrease)
The Special Number e ≈ 2.718
• e^x is the natural exponential function
• It appears in calculus, finance, and science
• Unique property: slope equals the height at any point
Applications of Exponential Functions
• Population growth
• Radioactive decay
• Compound interest
• Cooling of objects
Exponential Functions and Logarithms
• Logarithms are the inverse of exponential functions
• They answer: 'To what power must I raise b to get this number?'
Summary
Exponential functions model rapid growth and decay.
They are essential in mathematics, science, and real-world problems.
Understanding them helps us describe and predict change.