Interpreting Exponential Functions

An elk population after x months can be modeled by the function

g(x) = 300(1.2)^x. Which statement is the best interpretation of one of the values in this function?

• The elk population increased by 12 elk each month.

• The elk population decreased by 12 elk each month.

• The elk population increased at a rate of 20% each month.

• The elk population decreased at a rate of 20% each month.

What is the initial value for the equation? y = 200(1.8^x)

• 200

• 1.8

• 80%

In an exponential function, what does the 'a' represent? 

• SLOPE

• RATE OF CHANGE

• Y-INTERCEPT (starting value)

• COMMON RATIO

The function f(x) = 800(1.02)^x models money in a savings account. What is the initial amount of money?

• $800

• $1.02

• $816

• $16

What is the initial amount?

• 6

• 1

• 0

• -6

The number of people with the flu during an epidemic is a function, f, of the number of days, d, since the epidemic began. The equation f(d) = 50·(3/2)d defines f

How quickly is the flu spreading?

• (2/3) per day

• (3/2) per day

• 50·(3/2) per day

• 50 per day

What is a, the initial value, for the function: f(x) = 300(1.16)^x?

• 300

• 1.16

• .16

• x

What is the initial amount?

• 1000

• 0.65

• 165

• 65

What is the initial value of the situation represented by f(x)=0.05(2)^x?

• 0.05

• 2

• 0.1

• 1

In an exponential function, what does the 'a' represent? 

• SLOPE

• RATE OF CHANGE

• STARTING VALUE
  (y-intercept)

• GROWTH FACTOR