LESSON

13.3 Name Class Date

Exponential Decay 13.3 Exponential Decay Functions

Functions Essential Question: How is the graph of g(x) = ab x–h + k where 0 < b < 1 related to the
graph of f(x) = b x?

Resource
A2.5.B Formulate exponential … equations that model real-world situations…Also A2.2.A, Locker
Texas Math Standards A2.5.A, A2.5.D, A2.7.I

(__12 )
x
The student is expected to: Explore 1 Graphing and Analyzing f(x) =
(___
10 )
x
A2.5.B 1
and f(x) =
Formulate exponential and logarithmic equations that model real-world
Exponential decay functions are exponential functions with bases between 0 and 1 assuming a positive leading
situations, including exponential relationships written in recursive coefficient. These functions can be transformed in a manner similar to exponential growth functions. Begin by
notation. A2.2.A, A2.5.A, A2.5.D, A2.7.I plotting the parent functions of two of the more commonly used bases: __12 and __
1
10
.

(__12 )
x
Mathematical Processes x f(x) =
 To begin, fill in the table in order to find points along the function
()
x

A2.1.A ƒ(x) = __12 . You may need to review the rules of the properties of
exponents, including negative exponents. -3 8
To apply mathematics to problems arising in everyday life, society, and 4
-2
the workplace
 What does the end behavior of this function appear
2
to be as x increases? -1
Language Objective
f(x) approaches 0. 0 1
1.B.1, 2.D.1, 2.I.3, 2.I.4, 3.D, 3.E
__1
y 1 2
Work with a partner to compare and contrast exponential decay and  Plot the points on the graph and
exponential growth functions. draw a smooth curve through 6 __1
2 4
them.
4 __1
3 8

ENGAGE 2

(___
10 )
x x
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

1
x f(x) =
-4 -2 0 2 4
Essential Question: How is the graph
-3
of g(x) = ab x - h + k where 0 < b < 1
1000

( )
x
Complete the table for ƒ(x) = _1 . -2 100
related to the graph of ƒ(x) = b x?  10
-1 10
Possible answer: The graph of g(x) = ab x - h + k  Plot the points on the graph and y
0 1
draw a smooth curve through
involves transformations of the graph of ƒ(x) = b x. them.
8
___1
1
In particular, the graph of g(x) is a vertical stretch or 6
10
___
1
compression of the graph of ƒ(x) by a factor of ∣a∣, a 2 100
4 ____
1
reflection of the graph across the x-axis if a < 0, and 3 1000
2
a translation of the graph h units horizontally and k x
units vertically. -4 -2 0 2 4

Module 13 ges must be

made throu
gh “File info” 733 Lesson 3
EDIT--Chan
DO NOT Key=TX-B

PREVIEW: LESSON
Correction
Date
Class

nctions
al Decay Fu
Name

nenti
13.3 Expo
HARDCOVER PAGES 517528
to the
1 related

PERFORMANCE TASK
0<b<
x–h + k where
of g(x) =
ab Resource
is the graph x Locker
Quest ion: How f(x) = b
? lso A2.2.A
,
Essential graph of situations…A
real-world
ons that model

(__12 )
… equati x
exponential
f(x) =
late
A2.5.B Formu A2.7.I
A2.5.A, A2.5.D
,
lyzing
g and Ana
(___1 )
1 Graphin x
e leading
Explore ing a positiv
and f(x)
= and 1 assum Begin by
between 0

View the Engage section online. Discuss the

10 functions.
A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 733 ons are expon
ential functio
ns with bases to exponential growth
r similar __1 and __
1 . 1
(__ )
x
11/01/15 2:06 PM
Turn to these pages to
in a manne 10
f(x) = 2
decay functi can be transformed used bases: 2
Exponential ns commonly x
These functio ns of two of the more
coefficient.
parent functio function 8
plotting the along the -3
to find points rties of
table in order of the prope 4
fill in the the rules
To begin,1 x to review -2
()
__ . You may need

photo and why it might be important to know the



find this lesson in the

ents.
ƒ(x) = 2 negative expon 2
including -1
exponents,
appear 1
function
ior of this
the end behav 0
__1
What does
 to be as x
increases? 2
1
__1

hardcover student
aches 0.
f(x) appro y 4

amount of a radioactive isotope remaining in

and
2
__1
on the graph 6 8
Plot the points curve through 3
 draw a smoot
h
4
(___101 )
x

edition.
f(x) =
them.
2 x
x

2 4 1000
0 -3

the environment. Then preview the Lesson

-4 -2
100
-2
y
g Compan

10

( )
-1
x
1 .
_
for ƒ(x) = 10
1
Publishin

the table 0 ___1

Complete y
 10
Harcour t

on the graph
and
8
1 ___ 1

Performance Task.
Plot the points curve through 100
 h 2 ____
n Mifflin

draw a smoot 6
1
1000
them. 3
© Houghto

2
x

0 2 4
-4 -2 Lesson 3

733

2:06 PM
11/01/15
Module 13

733
L3.indd
7_U6M13
SE35394
A2_MTXE

733 Lesson 13.3

 F Fill in the following table of properties:

(___
EXPLORE 1
(__12 ) 10 )
x x
f(x) = f(x) = 1

(__12 )
x
Graphing and Analyzing ƒ(x) =
___ ( )
⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫ x
⎨x ⎢ -∞ < x < ∞⎬ ⎨x⎢ -∞ < x < ∞ ⎬
and ƒ(x) = 10
1
Domain
⎩ ⎭ ⎩ ⎭

⎧ ⎧ ⎫
Range ⎨y ⎢
⎩
y > 0  ⎫⎬ ⎨y ⎢
⎩
y > 0  ⎬⎭
⎭
INTEGRATE TECHNOLOGY
End behavior as x → ∞ f(x) → 0 f(x) → 0 Make sure that students are comfortable using their
calculators to graph exponential functions. They may
End behavior as x → -∞ f(x) → ∞ f(x) → ∞ need to practice putting in the appropriate domains
and ranges.
y-intercept (0 , 1 ) (0 , 1 )
QUESTIONING STRATEGIES
G Both of these functions [decrease/increase] throughout the domain.
What is the decay factor in an exponential

( )
x
1
Of the two functions, ƒ(x) = _
 decreases faster. decay function? the base b of an exponential
10
decay function y = ab x where a > 0

Reflect
What is the parent function for exponential
decay functions? ƒ(x) = b x where 0 < b < 1
1. Make a Conjecture Look at the table of properties for the functions. What do you notice? Make a
conjecture about these properties for exponential decay functions of the form ƒ(x) = (__n1 ) , where n is a
x
is the parent function for the family of exponential
constant.
decay functions with base b.
The domain, range, end behavior, and y-intercept are the same for both functions. These

(_)
x
1
same properties apply to all exponential decay functions of the form f(x) = n .
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

Explore 2 Predicting Transformations of the Graphs of EXPLORE 2

f(x) = __ () ___1 x ( )
x
1
2
and f (x) = 10
Predicting Transformations of the
()
Graphs of ƒ(x) = 2 and ƒ(x) = ___
__ ( )
Based on your experience with transforming the parent function ƒ (x) in previous lessons, make predictions about the x x
effect of varying the parameters in g(x) = aƒ(x-c) + d. Confirm your predictions using a graphing calculator. 1 1
10
() ()
x x
1 vertically stretched by a
1 will be the graph of ƒ (x) = _
The graph of g 1(x) = 3 _
A 2 2
factor of 3 .
AVOID COMMON ERRORS
(_) ()
x x
1 1
The graph of g 2(x) = _ 1 vertically compressed by a
will be the graph of ƒ (x) = _
_1 4 2 2 Some students may think that a horizontal shift in
factor of 4 .
the graph of an exponential function affects the
domain. Demonstrate that the domain of all
Module 13 734 Lesson 3
exponential functions and their translations is the set
of all real numbers, just as with quadratic functions.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Go back to the definition of domain and point out
A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3 734 1/13/15 2:03 PM that the value of x can be any real number in any
Math Background exponential growth or decay function, or any
Students will graph most of the exponential functions in this lesson by hand. They translation of these functions. You might use a
will see that the graphs of exponential decay functions approach the positive graphing calculator demonstration to reinforce this
x-axis as x increases without bound, so the x-axis is an asymptote for the graph of idea visually.
any function of the form ƒ(x) = b x where b > 0 and b ≠ 1. Students will also
transform the graphs of exponential functions and discover how the
transformations affect the asymptote, y-intercept, and rate of increase or decrease,
and write transformed functions for graphs based upon the asymptote and two
points on the graph, the reference points.

Exponential Decay Functions 734

 () () x - axis
x x

B The graph of g 1(x) = -__34 __12 will be the graph of ƒ (x) = __12 reflected across the
QUESTIONING STRATEGIES _3
and vertically compressed by a factor of 4 .
Can you automatically conclude that an
() () x - axis
x x
The graph of g 2(x) = -5 __12 will be the graph of ƒ(x) = __12 reflected across the
exponential function model decays if the base 5
and vertically stretched by a factor of .
of the power is a fraction or decimal? Explain. No,
(__101 ) __5 ( )
x x
The graph of q 1(x) = -__54 will be the graph of ƒ (x) = __
1
reflected across
some fractions and decimals have a value greater 10

than one, such as 2.5 and __7 the

x-axis and vertically stretched by a factor of 4 .
2
, and these bases
( ) ( )
x x
produce exponential growth functions. The graph of q 2(x) = -__14 __
1
10
will be the graph of ƒ (x) = __
1
10
reflected across

the
x-axis and vertically compressed by a factor of 4 .

() ()
x+1 x
left .
C The graph of g 1(x) = __12 will be the graph of ƒ(x) = __12 translated 1 unit to the

The graph of g (x) = (__12 ) will be the graph of ƒ(x) = (__12 )

x-4 x
2 translated 4 units to

the
right .

( ) ( ) 2
x+2 x
The graph of q 1(x) = __
1
10
will be the graph of ƒ(x) = __
1
10
translated units to
left
the .

( ) ( ) 3
x-3 x
The graph of q 2(x) = __
1
10
will be the graph of ƒ(x) = __
1
10
translated units to
right
the .

() () 3 up .
x x

D The graph of g 1(x) = __12 + 3 will be the graph of ƒ(x) = __12 translated units

The graph of g (x) = (__2 ) - __2 will be the graph of ƒ(x) = (__12 ) translated 2.5 units down .
x x
1 5
2

The graph of q (x) = (__

10 )
+ 5 will be the graph of ƒ(x) = (__ 10 )
1
x
1 5
translated units up .
x
1

The graph of q (x) = (__

10 )
- 2 will be the graph of ƒ(x) = (__ 10 )
1
x
1 2
translated units
down .
x
2
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

Reflect

2. Which parameters make the domain and range of g(x) differ from those of the parent function? Write the
transformed domain and range for g(x) in set notation.
None of the parameters alter the domain, which is all real numbers for both the parent
and transformed functions. The parameter a alters the range if it is less than 0, and the
⎧ ⎫
parameter k alters the finite end of the range. Domain: ⎨⎩x|-∞ < x < ∞⎬;
⎭
⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫
Range (a > 0): ⎩⎨ y| y > k⎬⎭; Range (a < 0): ⎨⎩y| y < k⎬⎭

Module 13 735 Lesson 3

COLLABORATIVE LEARNING
A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 735 11/01/15 2:13 PM

Peer-to-Peer Activity
Have pairs of students work together to create a graphic organizer to compare and
contrast exponential growth functions and exponential decay functions.

735 Lesson 13.3

 Explain 1 Graphing Combined Transformations of f(x) = b x
Where 0 < b < 1 EXPLAIN 1
When graphing transformations of ƒ (x) = b x where 0 < b < 1, it is helpful to consider the effect of the
( )
transformation on two reference points, (0, 1) and -1, __b1 , vas well as the effect on the asymptote, y = 0. The table
Graphing Combined Transformations
shows these reference points and the asymptote y = 0 for ƒ (x) = b x and the corresponding points and asymptote for
the transformed function, g(x) = ab x-h + k. of ƒ(x) = b x Where 0 < b < 1
f(x) = b x g(x) = ab x-h + k
INTEGRATE MATHEMATICAL
First reference point (0, 1) (h, a + k) PROPERTIES
Second reference point (-1, _b1 ) (h - 1, _ba + k) Focus on Modeling
As a starting point for graphing combined
Asymptote y=0 y=k
transformations, students should be aware that the
Example 1 For each of the transformed functions, use the reference points and
graph of ƒ(x) = ab x always passes through the points
the asymptote to draw the transformed function on the grid with the (0, a) and (1, ab).
parent function. Then describe the domain and range of the transformed
function using set notation.

() QUESTIONING STRATEGIES
x-2
1
g(x) = 3 _ -2
 2

Identify parameters: a=3 1

b=_ h=2 k = -2 What is the horizontal asymptote of the graph
2
Find reference points:
ƒ(x) = a · b x - h + k where b = __12 ? The
horizontal asymptote of the graph ƒ(x) is y = k.
(h, a + k) = (2, 3 - 2) = (2, 1)

(h - 1, _ab + k) = (2 - 1, ___3 - 2) = (1, 4) For the graph of ƒ(x) = a · b x - h + k where

b = __12 and (h, k) is at the origin, what are the
1
2
y
Find the asymptote: y = -2
4 reference points? (0, a) and (-1, 2a)
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
Plot the points and draw the asymptote. Then connect the points with a
smooth curve that approaches the asymptote without crossing it. 2
⎧ ⎫ y=0 x
Domain: ⎨x ⎢ -∞ < x < ∞ ⎬
⎩ ⎭ -2 0 2 4
-2
⎧ ⎫ y = -2
Range: ⎨ y ⎢ y > -2  ⎬
⎩ ⎭

Module 13 736 Lesson 3

DIFFERENTIATE INSTRUCTION
A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 736 2/23/14 6:00 PM

Communicating Math
Have students make up their own functions in the form y = ab x - h + k for
different a, h, and k values, and then discuss the transformations with each other.

Exponential Decay Functions 736

 ( )
x+2
g(x) = - _1 +8
B 10
CONNECT VOCABULARY
Identify parameters:
Connect the terms decay and growth to life. When
something alive grows, it tends to become taller and a = -1 b = 10
__
1
h = -2 k= 8
larger. When something alive decays, it tends to get
Find reference points:
smaller; it takes up less space.
(h, a+k ) = (-2, -1 + 8) (-2, 7)
(h - 1, _ab + k) = ( -1
)(
-2 -1, _ + 8 = -3 , -2
__
1
10
)
Find the asymptote: y

y=8
y= 8 8

Plot the points and draw the asymptote. Then connect the points with
a smooth curve that approaches the asymptote without crossing it.

⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨x ⎢ - ∞ < x < ∞ ⎬
⎩ ⎭ 2
⎧ ⎫ x
Range: ⎨y ⎢ y < 8 ⎬
⎩ ⎭ -4 -2 0 2 4

Your Turn

For the transformed function, use the reference points and the asymptote to draw the
transformed function on the grid with the parent function. Then describe the domain
and range of the transformed function using set notation.

()
x+2
3. 1
g (x) = 3 _ -4
3
y
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

Identify parameters:
1 _
a = 3; b = ; h = -2; k = -4
3
Find reference points: 2
x
(h, a + k) = (-2, 3 - 4) = (-2, - 1) -4 -2 0

(h - 1, _ba + k) = (-2 - 1, _3_ , -4) = (-3, 5)

2 4
-2
1
3 -4 y = -4
Find the asymptote: y = -4
⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨⎩x ⎢-∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y ⎢ y > -4⎬⎭

Module 13 737 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3 737 1/13/15 9:39 PM

737 Lesson 13.3

 Explain 2 Writing Equations for Combined Transformations
of f(x) = b x where 0 < b < 1 EXPLAIN 2
Given a graph of an exponential decay function, g(x) = abx - h + k, the reference points and the asymptote can be
used to identify the transformation parameters in order to write the function rule.
Writing Equations for Combined
Example 2 Write the function represented by this graph and state the domain and
range using set notation.
Transformations of ƒ(x) = b x where
0<b<1
y=4 y
 4

2
(-3, 1)
INTEGRATE TECHNOLOGY
x
-4 -2 0 2 4 Students can check the equations they write by
-2 graphing the functions on their graphing calculators.
(-4, -2)
-4 Have them use the TRACE or TABLE feature to
identify coordinates of points in the resulting graph.
Find k from the asymptote: k = 4.

The first reference point is at (-3,1).

Equate point value with parameters-based expression. (-3, 1) = (h, a + k)

Use the x-coordinate to solve for h. h = -3

Use the y-coordinate to solve for a. a=1-k

= -3

The second reference point is at (-4, -2).

Equate point value with parameters-based expression. ( a +k

(-4, -2) = h - 1, _
b )
Equate y-coordinate with parameters. -3 + 4 = -2
_
b
-3 = -6
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
Solve for b. _
b
b=_-3
-6
=_1
2
( )
x+3
1
g (x) = -3 _ +4
2
⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨x⎟ -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎩ ⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range:⎨y⎟ y < 4⎬
⎩ ⎭

Module 13 738 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 738 2/23/14 6:00 PM

Exponential Decay Functions 738

 y
B 4 (1, 4)
QUESTIONING STRATEGIES
3
For a given value of k and a first reference
point of (6, 8), how do you find the values of h 2

and a? The value of h is 6 and the value of a is 8 - k. 1

x
For a given value of k and a and a second -1 0 1 3 4
reference point of (4, 10), how do you find the -1
y = -1
values of b? Set the value of __ba + k to 10, substitute
(2, - 1)
2

the values of a and k, and solve for b.

Find k from the asymptote: k = -1 .

The first reference point is at ( 1

2 , -  2 , so
__
) (2 ) (
1 = h,
, -  _
2
a+k )
h= 2
_1
a = -  2 -k

= _1
2

The second reference point is at ( 1 , 4 ), so ( 1 , 4) = (h -1, _a + k

b )
_1
2
_ -1 = 4
b
1
_
2 = 5
_
b
__1
b=_
2
5

= __
1
10
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

_1
(_101 )
x- 2
g(x) = 2 + -1

⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨x⎟ -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎩ ⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨y⎟ y > -1⎬
⎩ ⎭

Module 13 739 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 739 11/01/15 2:22 PM

739 Lesson 13.3

 Reflect

4. Compare the y-intercept and the asymptote of the function shown in this table to the function plotted in
Example 2A.

x -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2

1
_ 1 5 13 29
g(x) -10 -4 -4 1_ 1_ 1_ 1_
2 4 8 16 32

The y-intercept appears to have moved down by 2 units from 3 ( _85 to 1_58 ), and the
asymptote appears to have moved down by 2 units as well (from 4 to 2).

5. Compare the y-intercept and the asymptote of the function shown in this table to the function plotted in
Example 2B.

x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2

g(x) 49 4 -0.5 -0.95 -0.995 –0.9995

The y-intercept is not apparent in the graph but must be larger than 10, while the table
shows that the y- intercept is at -0.95. The asymptote of both functions appears to be -1.

Your Turn

Write the function represented by this graph and state the domain and range using set
notation.

6. y Asymptote: y = -4, so k = -4
4 First reference point: (1, -2)

2 (1, -2) = (h, a + k)

x h= 1
-2 © Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
0 2 4 6 8
a = -2 - (-4) = 2
-2
Second reference point: (0, 4)
y = -4
(
(0, 4) = h - 1, a + k
b
_ )
_
2
-4=4
b
_2
=8
b
b= 1 _
4

(_)
x-1
1
g(x) = 2 -4
4
⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨⎩x⎢ -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y ⎢y > -4⎬⎭

Module 13 740 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 740 11/01/15 2:25 PM

Exponential Decay Functions 740

 Explain 3 Modeling with Exponential Decay Functions
EXPLAIN 3 Exponential decay functions can be applied to situations in which a quantity decreases by a constant percentage for
each unit increase in time.

ƒ (t) = a(1 - r)
t

Modeling With Exponential Decay

Functions In this form of the decay function, r (which must be expressed as a decimal or a fraction rather than a percentage)
is called the decay rate. The term (1 - r) is known as the decay factor. The vertical stretch parameter, a, is also the
value of the decay function at the start (when t = 0).

QUESTIONING STRATEGIES Example 3 Given the description of the decay terms, write the exponential decay
function in the form f (t) = a (1 - r) and graph it with a graphing
t

How is the decay factor related to the percent calculator.

of decrease in value? The sum of the
decay factor and the percent of decrease is 1. For  The value of a truck purchased new for $28,000 decreases by 9.5% each year. Write an
exponential function for this situation and graph it using a calculator. Use the graph to
example, for a percent of decrease of 23%, the predict after how many years the value of the truck will be $5000.

decay factor is 0.77. “Purchased new for $28,000...” a = 28,000

“...decreases by 9.5% each year.” r = 0.095

Substitute parameter values. V T (t) = 28,000 ( 1 - 0.095 )t

Simplify. V T (t) = 28,000 ( 0.905 )t

Graph the function with a graphing calculator. Use

WINDOW to adjust the graph settings so that you can see
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company • Image Credits: ©Transtock the function and the function values that are important.

Find when the value reaches $5000 by finding the intersection between V T( t ) = 28, 000 (0.905)
t

and V T( t ) = 5000 on the calculator.

Inc./Superstock

The intersection is at the point (17.26, 5000), which means after 17.26 years, the truck will have a value
of $5000.

Module 13 741 Lesson 3

LANGUAGE SUPPORT
A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 741 2/23/14 6:00 PM

Graphic Organizers
Have each pair of students complete a compare and contrast Venn diagram to
show the similarities and differences between exponential decay and exponential
growth functions. Encourage students to discuss and show the similarities and
differences between their graphs, their equations, and so on.

741 Lesson 13.3

 B The value of a sports car purchased new for $45,000 decreases by 15% each year. Write
an exponential function for the depreciation of the sports car, and plot it along with the INTEGRATE MATHEMATICAL
previous example. After how many years will the two vehicles have the same value if they are
purchased at the same time?
PROCESSES
Focus on Critical Thinking
“Purchased new for $45,000...” a = 45,000
Explain the concept of depreciation and how it is
“...decreases by 15% each year.” r = 0.15
used in the business world. Discuss the difference
( )
t

Substitute parameter values. V c ( t ) = 45,000    1 - 0.15 between an item losing the same dollar amount of

( )
value each year, known as straight-line depreciation,
t

Simplify. V c ( t ) = 45,000   0.85

and the item losing the same percent of its value each
Add this plot to the graph for the truck value from Example A and find the intersection of the two functions to year, a type of depreciation which is based on an
determine when the values are the same.

( )
exponential decay model.
The intersection point is 7.567 , 13,155 .

After 7.567 years, the values of both vehicles will be

$ 13,155 .

Reflect

7. What reference points could you use if you plotted the value function for the sports car on graph paper?
Confirm that the graph passes through them using the calculate feature on a graphing calculator.
The transformation parameters are a = 45,000, h = 0, and k = 0. The parent function is

( _
b = 0.85. The reference points are (h, a + k) = (0, 45,000) and h - 1, + k = (-1, 52,941).
a
b )
Using the calculate feature confirms the graph passes through (0, 45,000) and (–1, 52,941).

8. Using the sports car from example B, calculate the average rate of change over the course of the first year
and the second year of ownership. What happens to the absolute value of the rate of change from the first
interval to the second? What does this mean in this situation?
f (t 1) - f (t 0)
Average rate of change during the interval from t 0 to t 1 = ________ t1 - t0
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
First year: rate of change = ___
45,000 ∙ 0.85 - 45,000
= -$6750 per year
1-0

45,000 ∙ (0.85) - 45,000 ∙ 0.85

___ 2

Second year: rate of change = = -$5737.50 per year

2 -1
The absolute value of the rate of change decreased during the second interval. This means
that the car depreciates less each year than the year before.

Module 13 742 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3 742 07/04/15 6:41 AM

Exponential Decay Functions 742

 Your Turn

ELABORATE 9. On federal income tax returns, self-employed people can depreciate the value of business equipment.
Suppose a computer valued at $2765 depreciates at a rate of 30% per year. Use a graphing calculator to
determine the number of years it will take for the computer’s value to be $350.
QUESTIONING STRATEGIES v (t) = 2765 (1 - 0.3) = 2765 (0.7)
t t

How do you rewrite exponential decay Intersect with v (t) = 350

functions to answer questions about the Using a graphing calculator, the intersection point is at (5.79, 350).
It will take about 5.79 years for the value of the computer to drop to $350.
functions? Properties of exponents can be used to
rewrite exponential functions to show specific
growth or decay factors. Elaborate
() ( )
x x
10. Which transformations of ƒ(x) = __12 or ƒ(x) = __
1
10
change the function’s end behavior?
Vertical translations change the horizontal asymptote and thus the end behavior as x
SUMMARIZE THE LESSON increases without bound. Reflections across the x-axis change the end behavior as x decreases
What does the graph of an exponential decay without bound, from approaching positive infinity to approaching negative infinity.
function look like? An exponential decay
11. Which transformations change the location of the graph’s y-intercept?
function is a function of the form y = ab x, with a > 0 Vertical translations, horizontal translations, vertical stretches/compressions, and
and 0 < b < 1. Exponential decay models describe reflections across the x-axis all change the y-intercept.
situations in which a quantity decreases by a fixed
12. Discussion How are reference points and asymptotes helpful when graphing transformations of
percent each time period. The graph of an
() ( )
x x
ƒ(x) = __12 or ƒ(x) = __
1
10
or when writing equations for transformed graphs?
exponential decay function is a curve that falls from Reference points and asymptotes are easy to transform and have a simple relationship to
left to right and gets less and less steep as x
the function parameters (a, h, and k) associated with the transformation. The point (0, 1)

( )
increases. The x-axis, or a line parallel to it, is a
horizontal asymptote of the graph.
becomes (h, a + k), the point -1, _
1
becomes h - 1, _
b
a
b ( )
+ k , and the asymptote y = 0
becomes y = k.
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

13. Give the general form of an exponential decay function based on a known decay rate and describe its
parameters.
f(t) = a (1 - r)
t

a is the starting value, or the value at t = 0.

r is the decay rate, or what fraction of the value is lost per unit of time.
(1 - r) is the decay factor, or what fraction of the previous value remains after the passage
of a unit of time.

14. Essential Question Check-In How is the graph of ƒ(x) = b x used to help graph the function
g(x) = ab x - h + k?
The graph of g (x) = ab x-h + k can be derived from the basic shape of the parent function,
f(x) = b x, using transformations based on the parameters a, h, and k.

Module 13 743 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 743 11/01/15 2:28 PM

743 Lesson 13.3

 Evaluate: Homework and Practice EVALUATE
()
x • Online Homework
1. Graph the function ƒ(x) = __13 by plotting points with integer x-values from –2 to 2. • Hints and Help
• Extra Practice

y
10 x f (x)

8 -2 9
-1
6 3
ASSIGNMENT GUIDE
0 1
4 Concepts and Skills Practice
1 _1
2 3
Explore 1 Exercise 1
_1
(__1 )
x
x 2
9 Graphing and Analyzing ƒ(x) =
and ƒ(x) = ___ ( )
0 x 2
-4 -2 2 4 6 1
10
Explore 2 Exercises 2–5
Describe the transformation(s) from each parent function and give Predicting Transformations of the
(__12 ) and
x
the domain and range of each function. Graphs of ƒ(x) =
() ( ) (___
10 )
x x+4 x
1 +3
g(x) = _ 1
2.
2
3. g(x) = _
10 ƒ(x) = 1

Vertical translation up by 3. Horizontal translation left by 4. Example 1 Exercises 6–11

⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫ Graphing Combined
Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬ Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎭ ⎭ Transformations of ƒ(x) = b x where
⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y | y > 3⎬⎭ Range: ⎨⎩y | y > 0⎬⎭ 0 < b < 1.

( ) ()
1
x-1
1
x+3 Example 2 Exercises 12–13
4. g(x) = - _ +2 5. g(x) = 3 _ -6
10 2 Writing Equations for Combined
Transformations of ƒ(x) = b x where
Reflection across the x-axis, translation Vertical stretch by a factor of 3, translation 0<b<1

© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

right by 1 and up by 2. left by 3 and down by 6.
Example 3 Exercises 14–16
⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬ Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬ Modeling With Exponential Decay
⎭ ⎭
⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫ Functions
Range: ⎨⎩y | y < 2⎬⎭ Range: ⎨⎩y | y > 6⎬⎭

Module 13 744 Lesson 3

Exercise
A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 744
Depth of Knowledge (D.O.K.) Mathematical Processes 2/23/14 5:59 PM

1 1 Recall of Information 1.E Create and use representations

2–5 2 Skills/Concepts 1.F Analyze relationships
6–11 2 Skills/Concepts 1.E Create and use representations
12–13 2 Skills/Concepts 1.F Analyze relationships
14–16 2 Skills/Concepts 1.A Everyday life
17 3 Strategic Thinking 1.D Multiple representations
18–20 3 Strategic Thinking 1.F Analyze relationships

Exponential Decay Functions 744

 For each of the transformed functions, use the reference points and
AVOID COMMON ERRORS the asymptote to draw the transformed function on the grid. Then
describe the domain and range of the transformed function using
Quickly check for students who identify a domain set notation.
other than -∞ to ∞ for any exponential function
()
x-1
6. 1
g(x) = -2 _ +2
2
or its transformation (other than when restricted by a
real-world constraint). Note that exponential y Identify parameters: a = -2; b = _1 ; h = 1; k = 2
2
functions do not have a vertical asymptote, so they 4 Find reference points:
continue unbounded in each direction. 2 (h, a + k) = (1, -2 + 2) = (1, 0)

-4 -2 0 2 4
x
(h - 1, __
a
b ) (
+ k = 1 - 1, ___
-2
2
)
__1 + 2 = (0, -2)
-2 Find the asymptote: y = 2
⎧ ⎫
-4 Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y | y < 2⎬⎭

()
x+2
7. 1
g(x) = _ +3
4

y Identify parameters: a = 1; b = _1 ; h = -2; k = 3

4
8 Find reference points:

6 (h, a + k) = (-2, 1 + 3) = (-2, 4)

4
y=3
(h - 1, _ba + k) = (-2 - 1, ___ + 3) = (-3, 7)
1
1
4
2 Find the asymptote: y = 3
x ⎧ ⎫
y=0 Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬
-6 -4 -2 0 2 4 ⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y | y > 3⎬⎭
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

()
1
x-_
8. 1
1 _
g(x) = _ 2
+2
2 3

y Identify parameters: a = _1 ; b = _1 ; h = _1 ; k = 2
4 2 3 2
Find reference points:

(_ _ ) (_ _)
3
(h, a + k) = 21 , 12 + 2 = 12 , 52

(h - 1, _ba + k) = (_21 - 1, ___ + 2) = (-_21 , _72 )

2
y=2 __
1
2
1 1
3
y=0 x
-2 -1 0 1 2 3 Find the asymptote: y = 2
-1 ⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y | y > 2⎬⎭

Module 13 745 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 745 20/03/15 3:04 AM

745 Lesson 13.3

 ()
x-2
9. 1
g(x) = 2 _ -3
4

y Identify parameters: a = 2; b = _1 ; h = 2; k = -3
6 4
Find reference points:
4
(h, a + k) = (2, 2 - 3) = (2, -1)

(h - 1, _ba + k) = (2 - 1, ___2 - 3) = (1, 5)

2
x 1
-4 -2 0 4
4
-2 Find the asymptote: y = -3
y = -3 ⎧ ⎫
-4 Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y | y > -3⎬⎭

()
x+2
1
10. g (x) = -3 _ +7
2

y
1 ; h = -2 ; k = 7
Identify parameters: a = -3; b = _
2
8 Find reference points:
y=7
6 (h, a + k) = (-2, -3 + 7) = (-2, 4)
4
(h - 1, _ba + k) = (-2 -1, _
-3
__ 1
2
)
+ 7 = (-3, 1)
2
Find the asymptote: y = 7
x
y= 0 ⎧ ⎫
-6 -4 -2 0 2 Domain: ⎨⎩x| -∞ < x < ∞⎬
⎭
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨⎩y | y < 7⎬⎭

()
x+1
2
11. g (x) = - _ 1
+_
3 2
2 ; h = -1 ; k = _
Identify parameters: a = -1; b = _ 1
y

© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

3 3 2
Find reference points:

( ) ( )
2 1 = -1, - _ 1
(h, a + k) = -1, -1 + _ 2 2

(h - 1, _ba + k) = (-1 -1, _ 2)

1 x
y= 1 -1 + _
1 = -2, -1
2
__ 2
( )
-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 y=0 3
1
Find the asymptote: y = _
-1
2
⎧ ⎫
-2 Domain: ⎨xǀ-∞ < x < ∞⎬⎭
⎩
⎧ 1 ⎫⎬
Range: ⎨yǀy < _
⎩ 2⎭

Module 13 746 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 746 21/03/15 3:31 AM

Exponential Decay Functions 746

 Write the function represented by each graph and state the domain
and range using set notation.
Asymptote:
12. y y = -1
8
(3, 7) k = -1
6 First reference point: (4, 3)
4 (4, 3) = (h, a + k)
(4, 3) h=4
2
a = 3 - (-1)
x
a=4
-1 0 2 4 6 8 10
y = -1 Second reference point: (3, 7)
( )
-2 a
(3, 7) = h - 1, _ +k
b
4
_-1= 7
b
_4=8
b
b=_ 4
8
b=_ 1
2

(_)
x- 4
1
g(x) = 4 -1
2
⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨xǀ-∞ < x < ∞⎬⎭
⎩
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨yǀy > -1⎬⎭
⎩

Asymptote:
13. y
y=3
y=3 4 k=3
2 First reference point: (-4, 1)
(-4, 1) x (-4, 1) = (h, a + k)
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

-6 -4 -2 0 h = -4
2
a=1- 3
-2
a = -2
(-5, -3)
-4 Second reference point: (-5, -3)

-2 + 3 = -3
_
(
(-5, -3) = h - 1, _ a
b
+k )
b
-2 = -6
_
b
b=_ -2
-6
b=_ 1
3

()
x+ 4
g(x) = -2 1
_ +3
3
⎧ ⎫
Domain: ⎨xǀ-∞ < x < ∞⎬⎭
⎩
⎧ ⎫
Range: ⎨yǀy < 3⎬⎭
⎩
Module 13 747 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 747 2/23/14 5:59 PM

747 Lesson 13.3

 Write the exponential decay function described in the situation and
use a graphing calculator to answer each question asked. PEERTOPEER DISCUSSION
14. Medicine A quantity of insulin used to regulate sugar in the bloodstream breaks Ask students to brainstorm and discuss two specific,
down by about 5% each minute after the injection. A bodyweight-adjusted dose is real-world situations, one of exponential growth and
generally 10 units. How long does it take for the remaining insulin to be half of the
original injection? one of exponential decay. For each situation, ask
l(t) = 10(1 - 0.05)
t
students to discuss how the graphs should look and
= 10(0.95)
t
tell how they would go about creating equations to
Half of the original injection (10) is 5. Use a graph to find the intersection
with l(t) = 5.
help them model real-world data.
Intersection point is at (13.5, 5).
It takes about 13.5 minutes.

15. Paleontology Carbon-14 is a radioactive isotope of carbon

that is used to date fossils. There are about 1.5 atoms of
carbon-14 for every trillion atoms of carbon in the atmosphere,
which known as 1.5 ppt (parts per trillion). Carbon in a living
organism has the same concentration as carbon-14. When an
organism dies, the carbon-14 content decays at a rate of 11.4%
per millennium (1000 years). Write the equation for carbon-14
concentration (in ppt) as a function of time (in millennia)
and determine how old a fossil must be that has a measured
concentration of 0.2 ppt.

c(t) = 1.5(1 - 0.114)

t

= 1.5(0.886)
t

© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company • Image Credits: (t) ©Eliana

Intersection point is at (16.65, 0.2).
The fossil is about 16.65 millennia, or 16,650 years old.

Aponte/Reuters/Corbis; (b) ©Joshua David Treisner/Shutterstock

16. Music Stringed instruments like guitars and pianos create a
note when a string vibrates back and forth. The distance that
the middle of the string moves from the center is called the
amplitude (a), and for a guitar, it starts at 0.75 mm when a
note is first struck. Amplitude decays at a rate that depends
on the individual instrument and the note, but a decay rate of
about 25% per second is typical. Calculate the time it takes for
an amplitude of 0.75 mm to reach 0.1 mm.

a(t) = 0.75(1 - 0.25)

t

= 0.75(0.75)
t

Intersection point is at (7.004, 0.1).

The amplitude will reach 0.1 mm in about 7 seconds.

Module 13 748 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 748 2/23/14 5:59 PM

Exponential Decay Functions 748

JOURNAL H.O.T. Focus on Higher Order Thinking

()
x
17. Analyze Relationships Compare the graphs of ƒ (x) = _ 1 and g (x) = x 2 . 1
_
Have students write about the two types of 2
Which of the following properties are the same? Explain.
exponential models, and describe how they differ ⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫
a. Domain ⎨xǀ-∞ < x < ∞⎬; ⎨xǀx ≥ 0⎬
from polynomial models such as quadratic and cubic. ⎩ ⎭ ⎩ ⎭
b. Range ⎧ ⎫ ⎧ ⎫
⎨yǀy > 0⎬; ⎨yǀy ≥ 0⎬
c. End behavior as x increases ⎩ ⎭ ⎩ ⎭
f (x) → 0; g (x) → ∞
d. End behavior as x decreases
f (x) → ∞; g (x) is not defined for values less than 0.
None are the same.
18. Communicate Mathematical Ideas A quantity is reduced to half of its original
amount during each given time period. Another quantity is reduced to one quarter
of its original amount during the same given time period. Determine each decay rate,
state which is greater, and explain your results.

The decay rate of the first quantity is 50% because the decay factor is
1 - r = __
1
, so the decay rate equals __
1
2
, or 50%. The decay rate of the
2
second quantity is 75% because the decay factor is 1 - r = __
1
, so the
4
decay rate is __
3
4
, or 75%. The decay rate of the second quantity is greater.

19. Multiple Representations Exponential decay functions are written as

transformations of the function ƒ (x) = b x, where 0 < b < 1. However, it also
possible to use negative exponents as the basis of an exponential decay function. Use
the properties of exponents to show why the function ƒ (x) = 2 -x is an exponential
decay function.

Given f (x) = 2 -x
= (2 -1)
x
Power of a power property

()
x
Property of negative exponents 1
= _
2
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

The last result is in the form f (x) = b x where 0 < b < 1 and is therefore
an exponential decay function.

20. Represent Real-World Problems You buy a video game console for $500 and
sell it 5 years later for $100. The resale value decays exponentially over time. Write
a function that represents the resale value, R, in dollars, over the time, t, in years.
Explain how you determined your function.

R(t) = 500(0.725) ; Sample answer: I used the general exponential decay

t

function f (x) = ab x and substituted 100 for f (x), 500 for a, and 5 for x,
resulting in 100 = 500(b 5). I then solved for b by dividing 100 by 500 to
get 0.2 and then took the fifth root of 0.2, resulting in 0.724779, which I
rounded to 0.725.

Module 13 749 Lesson 3

A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3.indd 749 11/01/15 2:36 PM

749 Lesson 13.3

 Lesson Performance Task AVOID COMMON ERRORS
Students may set r equal to -0.045 because this is a
Sodium-24 is a radioactive isotope of sodium used as a diagnostic aid in medicine. It undergoes radioactive decay
to form the stable isotope magnesium-24 and has a half-life of about 15 hours. This means that, in this time, half
decay situation. However, this would make the
term (1 - r) greater than one, and the function
t
the amount of a sample mass of sodium-24 decays to magnesium-24. Suppose we start with an initial mass of of 100
grams sodium-24.
m Na(t) would become a growth function. Explain to
a. Use the half-life of sodium-24 to write an exponential decay function of the form m Na(t) = m 0(1 - r) ,
t

students that the term (1 - r) already contains the

t
where m 0 is the initial mass of sodium-24, r is the decay rate, t is the time in hours, and m Na(t) is the mass
of sodium-24 at time t. What is the meaning of r? minus sign that turns m Na(t) into a decay function.
a. Substitute 50 for m Na(t), 100 for a 0, and 15 for t in the function.
50 = 100(1 - r)
15

0.5 = (1 - r) INTEGRATE MATHEMATICAL

15

―― 15 ―――
√0.5 =
15
√(1 - r)15 PROCESSES
0.955 ≈ 1 - r
0.045 ≈ r Focus on Communication
m Na(t) = 100(0.955) Have students consider the graphs for m Na(t) and
t

The value of r means that the mass of sodium-24 is reduced by 4.5% each hour. m Mg(t), and have them explain which is exponential
b. The combined amounts of sodium-24 and magnesium-24 must equal m 0, or 100, for all possible values of t. decay and which is exponential growth, based on the
Show how to write a function for m Mg(t), the mass of magnesium-24 as a function of t. properties of the graphs. Have students discuss
b. The sum of the mass of magnesium-24 and sodium-24
is equal to m 0 , which is 100.
whether they can determine from the graphs the final
m Mg(t) + m Na(t) = m 0 values of the functions as t gets very large.
m Mg(t) + m Na(t) = 100
Solve for m Mg(t).
m Mg(t) = 100 - m Na(t)
Substitute 100(0.955) for m Na(t)
t

m Mg(t) = 100 - 100(0.955)

t

c. Use a graphing calculator to graph m Na(t) and m Mg(t). Describe the graph of m Mg(t) as a series of © Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
transformations of m Na(t). What does the intersection of the graphs represent?
c. The graph of m Mg
(t) is a reflection of
the graph of m Na(t) 100
across the t-axis and
Mass of Na/Mg (g)

a translation of 100 80 Na
units vertically. The
intersection of the 60
graphs represents
40
the point where the Mg
mass of sodium-24 is 20
equal to the mass of
magnesium-24, which
0 5 10 15 20
occurs at the first
half-life of sodium-24. Time in Minutes (t)

Module 13 750 Lesson 3

EXTENSION ACTIVITY
A2_MTXESE353947_U6M13L3 750 1/13/15 9:49 PM

Have students research the half-life of technetium-99m, another radioactive

isotope widely used in medicine. Have students write an exponential decay
function for an initial mass of 100 grams. Then have students graph this function
and compare it to the one for sodium-24. Have students discuss the difference in
decay rates and how that might affect a real-world situation.

Scoring Rubric
2 points: Student correctly solves the problem and explains his/her reasoning.
1 point: Student shows good understanding of the problem but does not fully
solve or explain his/her reasoning.
0 points: Student does not demonstrate understanding of the problem.

Exponential Decay Functions 750