Math Problem Statement

In the exponential function f(x) = 3^{-x} + 2, what is the end behavior of f(x) as x goes to infinity?

Solution

The problem asks for the end behavior of the exponential function f(x)=3x+2f(x) = 3^{-x} + 2 as xx approaches infinity.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Analyze the function: f(x)=3x+2f(x) = 3^{-x} + 2 The function consists of two parts: 3x3^{-x} and the constant 22.

  2. Behavior of 3x3^{-x} as xx approaches infinity: 3x=13x3^{-x} = \frac{1}{3^x} As xx approaches infinity, 3x3^x becomes very large, so 13x\frac{1}{3^x} approaches 0.

  3. Determine the end behavior of f(x)f(x):

    • As xx approaches infinity, 3x3^{-x} approaches 0.
    • Therefore, f(x)f(x) approaches 0+2=20 + 2 = 2.

Conclusion:

The correct end behavior of f(x)f(x) as xx approaches infinity is f(x)2f(x) \rightarrow 2.

You selected the correct answer: f(x)2f(x) \rightarrow 2.

Would you like any further details or have any questions? Here are five related questions:

  1. What is the end behavior of the function f(x)=5x+1f(x) = 5^{-x} + 1?
  2. How does the base of the exponent affect the end behavior of exponential functions?
  3. What is the horizontal asymptote of f(x)=2x+4f(x) = 2^{-x} + 4?
  4. How would the end behavior change if the function was f(x)=3x+2f(x) = 3^{x} + 2 instead?
  5. Can you describe the transformation applied to the basic exponential function f(x)=3xf(x) = 3^{-x} to obtain f(x)=3x+2f(x) = 3^{-x} + 2?

Tip: When analyzing exponential functions, the behavior at infinity is typically dominated by the constant term, which usually defines the horizontal asymptote.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponential Functions
End Behavior
Limits

Formulas

f(x) = 3^{-x} + 2
3^{-x} = 1 / 3^x

Theorems

Limit Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12