exponential function
nounUK /ˌekspəˈnenʃəl ˈfʌŋkʃən/
US /ˌekspəˈnenʃəl ˈfʌŋkʃən/
A math rule where a number grows by multiplying by the same amount each time, so it gets big very fast.
The exponential function shows how a tiny seed can grow into a huge tree over time.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A function in which a constant base is raised to a variable power, such as 2^x.
In the equation y = 2^x, y is an exponential function of x.
3. A mathematical model used to describe rapid increase or decrease, like population growth or radioactive decay.
Scientists used an exponential function to predict how quickly the bacteria would multiply.
4. A curve on a graph that rises more and more steeply as it goes to the right.
The graph of the exponential function bends upward sharply after a few steps.