Question

f(x) = (1/2)^x - 3
How do I graph this? as well as find the domain and range.

Answer 1

http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=+%281%2F2%29^x+-+3

Answer 2

it looks like \(y=\frac{1}{2^x}\) only shifted down 3 units

Answer 3

domain is all real numbers, because you can raise \(\frac{1}{2}\) to any power you like

Answer 4

So, the only way to graph this by a graphing calc/wolfram/online calc?

Answer 5

range is \((-3,\infty)\) because no matter what \(x\) is you know \((\frac{1}{2})^x>0\) and so
\[(\frac{1}{2})^x-3>-3\]

Answer 6

no you don't need wolfram if you have a general idea of what
\[y=\frac{1}{2^x}=\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^x=2^{-x}\] looks like

Answer 7

Thank you. Was a bit confused with this. That clarified it.