The formula for an exponential function with an initial value $N_0$ and growth factor $r$ is:

$N = N_0 \cdot r^t$

Given:

• Initial value $N_0 = 26$
• Growth factor $r = 1.2$

Thus, the formula becomes:

$N = 26 \cdot (1.2)^t$

Let me know if you'd like more details or have questions!

Here are five questions to deepen understanding:

1. How does changing the growth factor affect the function's behavior?
2. What would the formula look like for a decay factor instead of a growth factor?
3. How can we find the value of $N$ at a specific time $t$?
4. What does the graph of this function look like?
5. How does the initial value impact the overall function?

Tip: In exponential functions, a growth factor greater than 1 indicates growth, while a factor between 0 and 1 indicates decay.