Math Problem Statement

Use the graph of y = C * a^x to determine C and a.

Solution

The given graph represents the function y=Caxy = C \cdot a^x, and the task is to determine the values of CC and aa. To proceed:

  1. Find CC:
    In an exponential function of the form y=Caxy = C \cdot a^x, the value of CC corresponds to the yy-intercept (the point where x=0x = 0). Check the graph at x=0x = 0 and note the yy-coordinate.

  2. Find aa:
    To determine aa, pick another point from the graph, substitute it into the equation y=Caxy = C \cdot a^x, and solve for aa. Commonly, the values of yy at integer values of xx are used.

I’ll zoom in on the details from the uploaded image:

  • The graph passes through two visible points of interest:
    • (0,2)(0, 2), which gives C=2C = 2.
    • Another clear point, for example (1,4)(1, 4), which can help solve for aa. Substituting into y=2axy = 2 \cdot a^x, we have:
      4=2a1    a=2.4 = 2 \cdot a^1 \implies a = 2.

Thus, the equation is: y=22xy = 2 \cdot 2^x

Would you like further clarification or verification for other points?


Related Questions:

  1. How does the value of CC affect the shape of an exponential graph?
  2. What happens if a>1a > 1 versus 0<a<10 < a < 1 in y=Caxy = C \cdot a^x?
  3. How would the graph look if CC were negative?
  4. Can aa be negative in y=Caxy = C \cdot a^x? Why or why not?
  5. How can exponential functions be used in real-world applications?

Tip:

For exponential equations, always check the yy-intercept first—it simplifies determining CC immediately.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponential Functions
Graph Analysis

Formulas

y = C * a^x

Theorems

Properties of Exponential Growth

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12