Math Problem Statement

Consider the function f(x) = 2(1/3)^(-x). Find the parent function, vertical intercept, horizontal asymptote, and sketch the graph.

Solution

Here’s the solution to the given problem:

1. Consider the function f(x)=2(13)xf(x) = 2\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)^{-x}, find the following:


a. The parent function

The parent function for this is an exponential function of the form: f(x)=bxf(x) = b^x Here, b=13b = \frac{1}{3} (the base of the exponential part of the function). Thus, the parent function is: f(x)=(13)xf(x) = \left(\frac{1}{3}\right)^x


b. The vertical intercept of f(x)f(x), written as an ordered pair

To find the vertical intercept, evaluate f(x)f(x) at x=0x = 0: f(0)=2(13)0f(0) = 2\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)^{-0} Since (13)0=1\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)^0 = 1: f(0)=2(1)=2f(0) = 2(1) = 2 Thus, the vertical intercept is: (0,2)(0, 2)


c. The equation of the horizontal asymptote

For exponential functions like f(x)=2(13)xf(x) = 2\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)^{-x}, as xx \to \infty, the output approaches 0 but never reaches it. Therefore, the horizontal asymptote is: y=0y = 0


d. Sketch f(x)f(x)

The function f(x)=2(13)xf(x) = 2\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)^{-x} can be rewritten as: f(x)=2(3x)f(x) = 2(3^x) Key features of the graph:

  • The graph grows rapidly for x>0x > 0 due to 3x3^x.
  • The graph decreases as x<0x < 0, approaching 0 asymptotically.
  • Vertical intercept: (0,2)(0, 2).
  • Horizontal asymptote: y=0y = 0.

Would you like me to provide a precise graph of f(x)f(x)? If so, let me know!


Let me know if you want further clarification on any part.


Related Questions:

  1. What are the transformations applied to the parent function in f(x)f(x)?
  2. How does the negative exponent in (13)x\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)^{-x} affect the graph?
  3. What is the domain and range of the function f(x)=2(3x)f(x) = 2(3^x)?
  4. Can you derive f(x)f'(x) to analyze the rate of growth for this function?
  5. What happens to the graph of f(x)f(x) if the coefficient "2" is changed to another constant?

Tip: Always identify key points like intercepts and asymptotes before sketching exponential graphs for accuracy!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponential Functions
Graph Transformations
Asymptotes

Formulas

f(x) = a * b^x

Theorems

Properties of Exponential Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12