Determine whether each function is an example of exponential growth or decay. Then, find the y-intercept.
y=0.5(1/4)^x
Can someone please show me the steps,I have no idea what I'm doing!

Question

Determine whether each function is an example of exponential growth or decay. Then, find the y-intercept.
y=0.5(1/4)^x
Can someone please show me the steps,I have no idea what I'm doing!

jhannybean · Answer

$$y=0.5\left(\frac{1}{4}\right)^x \implies y=ab^x$$Exponential growth and decay are found by analyzing the values of a and b. $$a>0~,~ 0>b>1 \implies \text{exponential decay}$$$$a>0~,~b>1 \implies \text{exponential growth}$$

jhannybean · Answer

So in analyzing your values of a and b, what do you think your function is doing?

jhannybean · Answer

Also, here are some examples and further explanation http://www.regentsprep.org/regents/math/algebra/AE7/ExpDecayL.htm

anonymous · Answer

It would be decaying right? since b is between 0 and 1 right?

anonymous · Answer

@Jhannybean

jhannybean · Answer

Yes, good job :)

anonymous · Answer

is the y intercept 0.5? 
&thank you so much! :)