Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Exponential Functions
Exponential functions are mathematical expressions in the form f(x) = a^x, where 'a' is a positive constant. They exhibit rapid growth or decay depending on the base 'a'. In this case, f(x) = 3^x represents exponential growth, while g(x) = -3^x represents exponential decay reflected across the x-axis. Understanding their general shape and behavior is crucial for graphing and analyzing these functions.
Recommended video:
Transformations of Functions
Transformations of functions involve shifting, reflecting, stretching, or compressing the graph of a function. For instance, the graph of g(x) = -3^x can be derived from f(x) = 3^x by reflecting it across the x-axis. Recognizing how these transformations affect the graph's position and shape is essential for accurately graphing and comparing the two functions.
Recommended video:
Domain & Range of Transformed Functions
Asymptotes
Asymptotes are lines that a graph approaches but never touches. For exponential functions, the horizontal asymptote is typically the x-axis (y = 0). In the case of f(x) = 3^x and g(x) = -3^x, both functions approach the x-axis as x approaches negative infinity. Identifying asymptotes helps in understanding the behavior of the functions at extreme values and is vital for determining their domain and range.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Asymptotes