Interpret parameters in context

What you'll learn

1. Identify the slope of a linear function f(x) = mx + b as the constant rate of change and interpret it with appropriate units in a real-world context
2. Identify the y-intercept of a linear function as the initial value (the output when x = 0) and interpret it in context
3. Identify the initial value a in an exponential function f(x) = a * b^x as the starting quantity and interpret it in context
4. Identify the base b in an exponential function as the growth factor (b > 1) or decay factor (0 < b < 1) and connect it to the percent rate of change: r = b - 1
5. Translate between the growth/decay factor b and the percent rate r, interpreting both in context (e.g., b = 1.08 means "8% annual increase")
6. Write complete interpretive sentences that include the parameter value, its meaning, and appropriate units

Prerequisites

• Prove growth properties of functions