Exponential function

Proportionality of exponential graphs

Graph of y=e^x

Any exponential function can be expressed in terms of e:

Asymptotes

For the function y=a^x:

Approaching infinity

Graph of an inverse function

flashcards

QuestionAnswer
What is the relationship for y=a^x between the gradient \frac{dy}{dx} at any point and the value of y at that point?The gradient is directly proportional to the value of y at that point.
Through which point does the graph of y=e^x always pass?The point (0,1).
How does the graph of y=e^x compare to any other exponential graph y=a^x where a>1?It increases faster than any other exponential graph y=a^x where a>1.
How does the graph of y=e^x compare to any other exponential graph y=a^x where 0<a<1?It decreases slower than any other exponential graph y=a^x where 0<a<1.
What is the derivative of y=e^x?\frac{dy}{dx} e^x = e^x
How can any exponential function a^x be expressed in terms of e?a^x = e^{(\ln a)x}
What is the horizontal asymptote for the function y=a^x?There is a horizontal asymptote at y=0 (the x-axis).
For y=a^x, what happens to y as x \to +\infty?y \to +\infty
For y=a^x, what happens to y as x \to -\infty?y \to 0
How does the rate of increase of y change for y=a^x as x increases?The rate of increase becomes faster as x increases.
How does the rate of decrease of y change for y=a^x as x decreases?The rate of decrease becomes slower as x decreases.
Does the function y=a^x ever reach the asymptote at y=0?No, the function never actually reaches y=0; it only approaches it as an asymptote.
What is the graph of an inverse function in relation to the original graph?The inverse of a graph is the reflection of the graph in the line y=x.