Math Problem Statement

What is the equation for the exponential function y = 3^x and how does it behave?

Solution

The image contains the exponential function:

y=3xy = 3^x

This is an example of an exponential growth function, where the base is 33 and the exponent is xx. In exponential functions, the variable xx is in the exponent, and the base (in this case, 3) remains constant. As xx increases, the value of yy grows exponentially. Here's a breakdown of key points:

  1. Base (3): The number that is repeatedly multiplied.
  2. Exponent (x): The power to which the base is raised.
  3. Growth: Since 3>13 > 1, this function represents exponential growth.
  4. Graph: The graph of y=3xy = 3^x is upward-sloping, starting from a small value (when xx is negative) and rapidly increasing as xx becomes positive.

Would you like further details, perhaps a graph of this function or its properties?

Here are some related questions to consider:

  1. What is the behavior of the function as xx \to \infty and xx \to -\infty?
  2. How does the graph of y=3xy = 3^x compare to y=2xy = 2^x or y=4xy = 4^x?
  3. What is the derivative of y=3xy = 3^x with respect to xx?
  4. How would this function change if the base were a fraction, like y=(12)xy = \left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^x?
  5. What are the real-world applications of exponential functions like this?

Tip: When graphing exponential functions, keep in mind that they always have a horizontal asymptote, typically at y=0y = 0, meaning the function approaches zero as xx \to -\infty but never actually reaches it.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponential Functions
Algebra

Formulas

y = 3^x

Theorems

Exponential Growth

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12