It seems like your message got cut off, and I couldn't understand the complete question. However, based on the provided information, an exponential function of the form \( f(x) = b^x \) can be either increasing or decreasing depending on the value of the base \( b \).
1. **Increasing Exponential Function:**
- If \( 0 < b < 1 \), the function \( f(x) = b^x \) is a decreasing exponential function. In this case, as \( x \) increases, \( b^x \) gets smaller, leading to a decreasing function.
2. **Decreasing Exponential Function:**
- If \( b > 1 \), the function \( f(x) = b^x \) is an increasing exponential function. As \( x \) increases, \( b^x \) gets larger, resulting in an increasing function.
Without specific values for \( b \), I can't determine whether the exponential function is increasing or decreasing in your context. If you have specific values for \( b \) or any other information, please provide them, and I'll be happy to assist you further.