Calculate exponential functions step by step with explanations and graph analysis.
An exponential function is a mathematical function of the form f(x) = a^x, where a is a positive real number not equal to 1, and x is any real number. The base a determines the growth or decay rate.
What is the natural exponential function?
The natural exponential function uses base e (approximately 2.718) and is written as e^x or exp(x).
What is the difference between exponential and polynomial growth?
Exponential growth increases at a rate proportional to the current value, while polynomial growth increases at a rate determined by the polynomial degree.