Investigating the Graphs of

Exponential Functions

y = bx

Exponential Function

base exponentb > 0 b ≠ 1

Exponent - The exponent of a number says how many times to use the number in a multiplication

For example 23 = 2 * 2 * 2 = 8  Negative Exponent: Indicates the base is

in the wrong position (reciprocate the base and change the exponent to positive)

For example:

Review

Asymptote – an imaginary vertical or horizontal line that a graph approaches but does not cross

x= for a vertical asymptote

y = for a horizontal asymptote

Review:

When putting fractions in the calculator always put them in parentheses.

  To write an exponent you can use the ^ key

on the calculator 3^ x .

You must also put the exponent in parentheses if it is more than one term.

REMEMBER

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Go to 2nd TblSet and ensure that it looks like this:

Go to MODE and change the graph mode to G-T.

Ensure that your plots are off when graphing since we are not doing scatter plots at this time.

If your graph does not show up press zoom and then 6 for the standard form of the graphing window.

To view the relationship between the graph and the table press TRACE

When you want to work on the graph press GRAPH.

When you want to work on the table press TABLE (2nd graph).

Graphing reminders: