Question

Identify the initial value in each formula below, and state whether the formula models exponential growth or

exponential decay. Justify your responses.
e. f(t) = 3 / 2 (2 / 3)^t

Answer 1

Initial value 3/2

Exponential decay

Explanation:

Exponential decay has the following formula:

f(t) = a(1-r)^t

where

a = initial value

r = rate of decrease

t = time

If the value inside of the parenthesis is less than 1, then the formula models exponential decay.

If the value inside of the parenthesis is more than 1, then the formula models exponential growth.