Numbers and algebra

Exponential function

A function in which the variable appears in the exponent and changes by a constant multiplicative factor over equal intervals.

Common notationf(x) = abˣ

In one sentence

What does Exponential function mean?

A function in which the variable appears in the exponent and changes by a constant multiplicative factor over equal intervals.

How it is written

f(x) = abˣ

A compact example

f(x)=100(1.05)ˣ grows by 5% whenever x increases by one.

Other names and search terms

exponential growth, exponential decay.

Where this fits

When should you learn Exponential function?

The first encounter is not the final level. Many ideas begin visually, become computational in high school and become formal in college.

  1. 1Pre-high schoolUsually introduced
  2. 2High schoolGreater depth
  3. 3CollegeGreater depth
  4. 4AdvancedGreater depth
Typical subjects
  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra
Know first
  • Basic arithmetic
What it unlocks
  • Equations
  • Functions
  • Precalculus

Clear answers

Questions about Exponential function

What does Exponential function mean in mathematics?

A function in which the variable appears in the exponent and changes by a constant multiplicative factor over equal intervals.

How is Exponential function written?

A common notation is f(x) = abˣ.

What is an example of Exponential function?

f(x)=100(1.05)ˣ grows by 5% whenever x increases by one.

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