Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Exponential Functions
Exponential functions are mathematical expressions in the form f(x) = a * b^x, where 'a' is a constant, 'b' is the base (a positive real number), and 'x' is the exponent. The function f(x) = e^x is a specific case where the base 'b' is Euler's number (approximately 2.718). These functions are characterized by their rapid growth or decay, depending on the value of 'b'.
Recommended video:
Transformations of Functions
Transformations of functions involve shifting, stretching, compressing, or reflecting the graph of a function. For example, the function g(x) = 2e^x represents a vertical stretch of the graph of f(x) = e^x by a factor of 2. Understanding these transformations helps in predicting how the graph will change without having to plot every point.
Recommended video:
Domain & Range of Transformed Functions
Asymptotes
Asymptotes are lines that a graph approaches but never touches or crosses. For exponential functions like f(x) = e^x, the horizontal asymptote is typically the x-axis (y = 0). When transforming the function, such as in g(x) = 2e^x, the asymptote remains the same, indicating that the graph will approach y = 0 as x approaches negative infinity.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Asymptotes