10

Non-foundation
EXPONENTIAL
FUNCTIONS

Q1 What are indices?

A1 Indices is the plural form of the
mathematical term Index. The index of
a number shows how many times a
number or variable has been multiplied
by itself. e.g. 24 = 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 and
x3 = x · x · x. The indices of 24 and x3 are 4

l
al Lt na
and 3 respectively. y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
Q2 Why are there rational indices?
bl on rig

A2 Indices can be rational numbers

Pu g K opy

(e.g. 2, 1 , etc.), and they can be

fo C

4
is g

irrational numbers (e.g. 3, , etc.).

on C

The indices of 24 and x3 are rational

numbers.
ot
H

Q3 Why are there laws of rational

indices?
A3 The laws of rational indices
states a system of rules (in
mathematics) that the rational indices
follow. We use these rules (usually 7
of them) to simplify mathematical
expressions involving indices.

Superfood in Mathematics
Q4 If these are the laws, why do
Proof of Index Laws for Rational Indices is found on
we need to prove them?
p. 10.33.
A4 We need to prove them
because we want to make sure the
rules are correct. But more Go online to find out the meaning of laws of
importantly, we want to understand rational indices.
the how these rules are related.
10.1 Laws of Rational Indices p. 10.1
Ex. Drill 10A p. 10.6
Ex. 10A p. 10.7
A The nth Root of a Real Number and p. 10.1
the Radical Sign

B Rational Indices p. 10.3

10.2 Equations Involving Indices p. 10.10

Ex. Drill 10B p. 10.15
Ex. 10B p. 10.15
A Equations with Rational Indices p. 10.10

B Exponential Equations p. 10.12

l
al Lt na
y
10.3 r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
Exponential Functions p. 10.17

e d
h

Ex. Drill 10C p. 10.28

c
bl on rig

Ex. 10C p. 10.29

u

A Exponential Functions and Their Graphs p. 10.17

Pu g K opy

fo C

B Features of the Graphs of Exponential Functions p. 10.19

is g
on C

C Applications of Exponential Functions p. 10.24

ot
H

10.4 Superfood in Mathematics:

Proof of Index Laws for Rational Indices
p. 10.33

A Properties of Radicals p. 10.33

B Proof of Index Laws for Rational Indices p. 10.34

Revision Exercise 10 p. 10.36

Non-foundation

HKDSE War Zone p. 10.40

HKDSE Key Notes and Hot Tips p. 10.43

Answers p. 10.45
 Exponential Functions 10.1

In junior forms, we introduced the concept of integral indices and learnt

7 index laws for integral indices. In this chapter, we shall learn rational Book 4B Chapter 0 Section 0.2
indices and extend the concept of index to define a new type of functions,
the exponential functions.

10.1 Laws of Rational Indices

A The n th Root of a Real Number and the Radical
Sign
Let us review the concept of the nth root that we learnt in junior forms.
(i) x is a square root of a if x × x = a or x2 = a. Since 3 × 3 = 9 and Here x = 3 and a = 9.
(−3) × (−3) = 9, both 3 and −3 are the square roots of 9.
(ii) x is a cube root of a if x × x × x = a or x3 = a. For example, the
cube root of 27 is 3 as 33 = 27 while the cube root of −216 is −6 as Here x = 3 then a = 27, and x = −6

l
al Lt na
then a = −216.
(−6)3 = −216. y
r S o atio
(iii) Similarly, x is a fourth root of a if x × x × x × x = a or x4 = a.
N hin Ed t b

e d
h

In general, for any positive integer n, x is the nth root of a if the

c
bl on rig

nth power of x is a (i.e. xn = a).

Pu g K opy

Case 1: When n is odd, a has only one real nth root, and we use the
fo C

n n
is g

radical a to denote this value. a can be positive or negative,

on C

depending on the sign of a.

Case 2: When n is even (and a > 0), a has two real nth roots. This
n
time we use the radical a to denote the positive root, and
ot

n
− a to denote the negative root. In particular, when n = 2, we However, when a < 0, and n is even,
H

n
2 a is not real. e.g. −2 is NOT a
use a to denote the positive square root of a instead of a .
real number.
n
In essence, the radical sign is a symbol we use to denote the square root 1
Obviously, the first root of a
or higher order root of a number. number is meaningless. Therefore
n
is defined for n ≥ 2.
We conclude the above two cases in the following table: Furthermore, if n = 2, we just use
to present square root but not
2
.

1 a>0 a<0
a has only one real nth root. a has only one real nth root.
n is odd 3 3
e.g. The cube root of 8 is 8 = 2. e.g. The cube root of −8 is −8 = −2.
a has two real nth roots. a has no real nth roots.
4
n is even e.g. The 4th roots of 16 are 4 16 = 2 e.g. −16 is not a real number.
4
and − 16 = −2.

exponential function 指數函數 square root 平方根 cube root 立方根 fourth root 四次方根 nth root n 次方根
10.2 4B Chapter 10

10.1
Find the values of the following without using the calculator.
5
4 3 1
(a) 81 (b) −125 (c)
32
SOLUTION
(a) 81 = 34 3 81
∴
4 3 27
∴ 81 = 3 3 9
3
(b) 125 = 53 5 125
∴
3
5 25
i.e. −125 = (−5) 5
3
∴ −125 = −5 Beware of the negative signs!

(c) 32 = 25 2 32

l
∴

al Lt na
2 16
5
1 1 2 8
y
i.e. =
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
2 4
32 2 2

e d
h
c
5
1 1
bl on rig

∴ =
32 2
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g

We may present the above solutions in a more concise way like: 1

on C

3 3
−125 = (−5)3 = −5
4 4
81 = 34 =3
ot

n
In general, a n = a for
H

(i) positive odd number n and any real value of a, or

(ii) positive even number n and a > 0
n
If a < 0 and n is an even number, a n ≠ a.
2
e.g. (−2)2 = 4 = 2 ≠ −2

10.1
Find the values of the following without using the calculator.
3
4 3 1
(a) 16 (b) −64 (c)
125

10A Question 1

n
NOTE: When we use the radical a to denote the nth root of a, the position of n in the radical sign is important. In
n 3
general, n a ≠ a , e.g. 3 64 = 24 and 64 = 4.
 Exponential Functions 10.3

On the calculator, the function keys , 3 and are

x

designed to find the square root, the cube root and the xth
root of a certain input respectively.

1. To find 17 .
Ty p e ‘ 1 7 ’ a n d p r e s s EXE . T h e a n s w e r i s
4.123 105 626.
3
2. To find 15 .
3
 
Type ‘ SHIFT x 3 15’ and press EXE . The answer is
2.466 212 074.
REMARK: This function also works for negative inputs.
5
3. To find 12 .

l
x

al Lt na
 
Type ‘5 SHIFT ^ 12’ and press EXE . The answer is
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
1.643 751 83.

e d
h
c
bl on rig

B Rational Indices
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g

In junior forms, we learnt that the index laws like am × an = am n and

+
on C

(am)n = amn hold when the indices m and n are integers. Can the indices
p
be rational numbers? In fact, when mathematicians define the rational Rational number is a quotient
q
indices, one of the considerations is to ensure that the existing index of two integers p and q in which
ot

laws still hold for rational indices. Now, we have to learn the meaning of q ≠ 0.
H

1 m 1 2 4
e.g. , , − , etc.
2 3 3
a n and a n first.

Let a > 0 , m and n be integers with n > 0.

Assume that (am)n = amn is valid for rational indices.

1 1 1
⋅n
(1) For a n: If ( a n )n = an = a1 = a is valid, then we should define
1 1 1
n
an as the nth root of a , (i.e. an = a ). a n is just another way to express
the nth root of a.
m m 1 1 n
m⋅
(2) For a n : If a n = a n = (a m ) n = a m or
m 1 1
⋅m n
an = a n = (a )m
n = ( a )m, then we should define
m n n
an = a m = ( a )m .

Together with these two new results, we have the following definitions and
the related index laws.
rational index 有理數指數
10.4 4B Chapter 10

2 Let a and b be positive real numbers, p and q be rational

numbers, m and n be integers with n > 0 . Then we have:
Definition:
1 m n
n n
(i) an = a (ii) an = a m = ( a )m

The index laws are shown as follows:

p q p+q a
p
ap
1 a ×a =a 5 =
b bp
ap 0
2 q
= a p−q 6 a =1
a
p q pq −p 1
3 (a ) = a 7 a =
ap
4 (ab ) p = a pb p

REMARK: Proofs of the above index laws will be given in the Superfood

l
al Lt na
section of this chapter.
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
10.2
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

Find the values of the following without using the calculator.

fo C
is g

1 3 3
9
on C

2
g

(a) 27 3 (b) 16 4 (c)

4

SOLUTION
ot

Method 1: Method 2:
H

1 1 1 1
3 3 3
27 3 27
n
(a) = an = a 27 3 = (3 ) Factorize the base.
3 1
= 33 3×
=3 3 Law 3: (a p )q = a pq
=3 Refer to 1 .
= 31
=3

3 3 3
m
4 3 n 4 4
(b) 16 4 = ( 16 ) a n = ( a) m
16 4 = (2 ) Factorize the base.
4 3
= 23 4
16 = 24 = 2 4×
=2 4
Law 3: (a p )q = a pq
=8
= 23
=8
 Exponential Functions 10.5

3 3 3
3 2
9 2 9 m n 9 2 3 2
(c) = a n = a m = ( a )m
n
= Factorize the base.
4 4 4 2
3
3 9 3 2
3
= = 3 2
2 4 2 = Law 3: (a p )q = a pq
2
3
3 a
p
ap 3
= 3
Law 5: = 3
2 b bp =
2
23 1 3
3
−p
= Law 7: a = a
p
ap
33 ap = 3
Law 5: =
2 b bp
8
= 23 1
27
−p
= 3 Law 7: a =
ap
3
8
=
27

l
al Lt na
10.2 y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
Find the values of the following without using the calculator.

e d
h
c
bl on rig

1 3 5
u

−
(a) 83 (b) 36 2 (c) 16 4
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g

10A Question 2
on C

3
ot

On the calculator, the function key ^ is designed to find the

H

powers of certain inputs and the key a b/c is designed for

inputting fractions.
5
e.g. To find 16 4.

Type ‘16 ^ (−) 5 a b/c 4 ’ and press EXE . The answer is

0.031 25.

10.3
Let x and y be positive real numbers. Simplify the following expressions
and express the answers with positive indices.
1
−
4 3 (x y )6 3
(a) x 3 ⋅ x 2
(b)
y −3
10.6 4B Chapter 10

SOLUTION
4 3 3 2 m n
3 2
(a)
n
x ⋅ x = x 4 ⋅ x3 an = a m = ( a )m
3 2
+
= x4 3 Law 1: a p × a q = a p + q
17
= x 12

1 1 1
− − ×6 ×6
(x 3 y )6 x 3 y2
(b) −3
= −3
Law 4: (ab ) p = a pb p;
y y m n n
an = a m = ( a )m
x −2 y 3
=
y −3
ap
= x −2 y 3− ( −3) Law 2: = a p−q
aq
y6 −p 1
= Law 7: a =

l
2 ap
x

al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

10.3

e d
h
c
bl on rig

Let a and b be positive real numbers. Simplify the following expressions

Pu g K opy

and express the answers with positive indices.

fo C
is g

1
3 −
2 2 )4
on C

a ( ab
g

(a) (b)
a a −2

10A
ot

Question 3
H

10A (Q1 – Q3)

1. Find the values of the following without using the calculator.

5 5
3
1 3 729
(a) 32 (b) −243 (c) (d) 3
343 729
10.1

2. Find the values of the following without using the calculator.

1 5 2
−
(a) 64 3 (b) 81 4 (c) 32 5
10.2

3. Let a and b be positive real numbers. Simplify the following

expressions and express the answers with positive indices.

4 7 5 ( a b −1 )2
(a) a ⋅ a (b) 1
−
b 2
10.3
 Exponential Functions 10.7

10A
Level 1 (Q1 – Q9)

Hinted Questions
1. Find the number of real root(s) in each of the following.
(a) The square root(s) of 9
(b) The square root(s) of −16
1
(c) The cube root(s) of 27
(d) The cube root(s) of −8
(e) The fifth root(s) of −5
(f) The eighth root(s) of −28

Find the values of the following without using the calculator. (Q2 – Q7)

l
al Lt na
5
4 3 32
2. (a) 625 (b) −343 (c)
y
r S o atio 243
N hin Ed t b
10.1

e d
h
c
3
27
bl on rig

u
7 6
3. (a) −128 (b) 729 (c) −
512
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g

2
on C

1 5
g

32 5
4. (a) 81 4 (b) 83 (c)
243
10.2

3
ot

1 3
11 2
5. (a) 343 3 (b) 256 4 (c) 1
H

25

2 5 3
6. (a) 99 0 ⋅ 27 3 (b) 2 0 ⋅ 64 6 (c) 810 ÷ 9 2

2 1 1 1 2 3
− − − − −
7. (a) 16 3 ⋅4 3 (b) 16 2 ⋅ 25 2 (c) 27 3 ÷ 36 2

Let a and b be positive real numbers. Simplify the following expressions

and express the answers with positive indices. (Q8 – Q9)

1 1 1 1
− −
8. (a) 2 4
(a b ) 2 (b) (a 2 b 2 )4 (c) (a 2 b −2 )−2

1 1 5 1
− −
4
a 2 b 2
a 2b2
9. (a) 2
(b) 1
(c) 1
b −3 2 3 5
−
a b (a b ) 2
10.8 4B Chapter 10

Level 2 (Q10 – Q20)

Hinted Questions
10. Let a and b be positive real numbers. Simplify the following
expressions and express the answers with positive indices.
1 1 2
−
4 −6 −2 3 3
(a) a ×a (b) (a ) (c) a ÷b 2

3 3
( a )−1 b −1 a (a −1 b )2
(d) (e) 2 (f)
b −2 b b

Find the values of the following without using the calculator. (Q11 – Q12)
1
1 1 1
1 3 −
11. (a) 9 2 + (b) 49 2 − 27 3
64

3 2

l
1 1

al Lt na
− − 1 2 1 3
12. (a) 121 2 − (−216) 3 (b) +
y
4 8
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
Assume that all the given variables are positive. Simplify the following
bl on rig

expressions and express the answers with positive indices. (Q13 – Q18) 10.3
Pu g K opy

3
fo C

4 3 4
13. (a) a3 ⋅ a4 (b) a −2 ⋅ a −3
is g
on C

3 1
a2 −2
−
14. (a) (b) ( b ⋅b 3 )6
5
a
ot
H

a 2b −1 2 −2
15. (a) (b) ( a b )
b

1
− 3
−2 2 )4
(x y ( x 2 ⋅ y )2
16. (a) 1 (b) 1
− −
y 3
y 2

x y4 x −2
17. (a) (b)
( x 2 y −1 )4 ( x y −3 )2

( x 2 y −3 )2 ( x 3 y 2 )2
18. (a) 3 (b) 3
( x )−1 x y −1
 Exponential Functions 10.9

19. If n is a positive integer, simplify the following expressions.

10
16 3n + 2
(a)
4 n −1
32 n +1 + 9 n −1
(b)
28

20. (a) Without using a calculator, evaluate each of the following.

3 4 5
4
(i) 32 , 33 , 3 , 35
3 4 5
(ii) (−2)2 , (−2)3 , (−2)4 , (−2)5
n
(b) Under what conditions will a n = a?

l
al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g
on C

Exam Duel
ot

Paper 1
H

1
−2
(a b 3 )2
21. Simplify and express your answer with positive indices. (3 marks)
a 3b −4

Paper 2

125 2 n + 4
22. 3n + 5
=
25 2
1
A. .
5
B. 5.
1− n
C. 5 .
n −1
D. 5 2 .
(1 mark)

A Formative Assessment
10.10 4B Chapter 10

10.2 Equations Involving Indices

A Equations with Rational Indices
On p. 10.1 we see that (i) 3 × 3 = 9 and (−3) × (−3) = 9. In other words, when
we are asked to solve x 2 = 9, the solutions are 3 and −3. Also
(ii) 3 × 3 × 3 = 27, and when we are asked to solve x3 = 27, 3 is a solution
of the equation.
2 4
−
In fact, equations like x2 = 9, x3 = 27, x 3 = 9 and x 3 = 16 are called
equations with ‘rational indices’.

We shall see how to solve some equations with rational indices in the
examples below.

10.4

l
al Lt na
y
Solve the following equations for x > 0 .
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
3
3

e d
−
h

2
(a) (b) x 2 = 27
= 9
c
x
bl on rig

SOLUTION
Pu g K opy

fo C

3
(a) x2 = 9
is g
on C

2
m n
x3 =9 an =
n
a m = ( a )m
2 3 3 3
×
Raise to the power of on both sides.
x3 2 = 9 2
ot

2
3 3
x = 27 2 3
H

∴ × = 1 and 9 2 = (32 ) 2 = 33 = 27
3 2
3
−
(b) x 2 = 27
2

“
−
2
∴ x = 27 3
Raise to the power of − on both sides.
3
2 Students are reminded to check
3 3
− the answers with the calculator
= (3 ) by substituting the values back
to the original equations in the
= 3−2 question.
“
1
=
9

10.4
Solve the following equations for x > 0 .
4
4 −
(a) x 3 = 125 (b) x 3 = 16

10B Question 1
 Exponential Functions 10.11

10.5
Solve the following equations for x > 0. (Give the answers correct to 3
significant figures.)
2
3
(a) 2x 3 − 10 = 20 (b) 7 x 2 = 30

SOLUTION
2
(a) 2x 3 − 10 = 20
2
2x 3 = 30
2
x3 = 15
3
3

l
x = 15 2

al Lt na
∴ Raise to the power of on both sides.
y 2
= 58.1 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h

3
c
(b) 7 x 2 = 30
bl on rig

1
Pu g K opy

1
2 3
(7 x ) = 30
n
an = a , beware of the brackets!
fo C
is g

7 x 2 = 30 3 Raise to the power of 3 on both sides.

on C

30 3
x2 =
7
30 3
ot

∴ x= Since x > 0, only positive root is needed.

H

7
= 62.1 (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

10.5
Solve the following equations for x > 0 .
(Give the answers correct to 3 significant figures if necessary.)
5
3
(a) 4 x 3 + 10 = 100 (b) x 2 + 20 = 6

10B Question 2
10.12 4B Chapter 10

B Exponential Equations
Consider the equation x2 = 4. The unknown x is in the base, the equation is
called an equation with rational indices.

Consider the equation 2x = 4. The unknown x is the index (or exponent), the
equation is then called an exponential equation. HK
EP

When we solve exponential equations, we use the following fact.

“
An explanation of 3 will
be given at the end of Section
3 Let a be any positive real number and a ≠ 1. M and N are 10.3B after Class Practice
“
real numbers. 10.10.

If aM = aN, then M = N.

l
al Lt na
10.6
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
Solve the following equations.

e d
h
c
(a) 22x = 128 (b) 2 ⋅ 5x = 0.4
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

SOLUTION
fo C

(a) 22x = 128

is g
on C

22x = 27 2 128
2 64
∴ 2x = 7 Refer to 3 . 2 32
7 2 16
x = 2 8
ot

2 2 4
H

2
x
(b) 2 ⋅ 5 = 0.4 Beware: 2 ⋅ 5x ≠ 10x
0.4 1
5x = = 0.2 =
2 5
1
i.e. 5x = 5
−1
By law 7, = 5 −1.
5
∴ x = −1 Refer to 3 .

10.6
Solve the following equations.
(a) 33x = 81 (b) 3 ⋅ 2x = 96

10B Question 3

exponential equation 指數方程

 Exponential Functions 10.13

10.7
Solve the following equations.
+2 −1 +1 −2
(a) 3x − 3x = 234 (b) 2 ⋅ 6x − 5 ⋅ 6x = 427

SOLUTION
+2 −1
(a) 3x − 3x = 234 Alternatively,
x 2
3 (3 − 3 ) = 234
−1 −1
3x+2 x 2
= 3 ⋅ 3 and 3 x−1
=3 ⋅3 x −1
3x (33 − 1) = 234
−1
3x =9
26 1 27 − 1 26
3x ⋅ = 234 32 − 3−1 = 9 − = = 3x
−1
= 32
3 3 3 3
x=3
x 3
3 = 234 ×
26
x
i.e. 3 = 27
3x = 33 27 = 33

x=3 Refer to 3 : If aM = aN, then M = N.

l
∴

al Lt na
y
r S o atio
+1 −2
(b) 2 ⋅ 6x − 5 ⋅ 6x = 427
N hin Ed t b
Alternatively,
x
6 (2 ⋅ 6 − 5 ⋅ 6 ) = 427
−2 x+1 x x−2 x
6 = 6 ⋅ 6 and 6 =6 ⋅6 (2 ⋅ 63 − 5) = 427
−2

e d
−2
6x
h
c
bl on rig

−2
6x =1 1 = 60
u

x 427 5 427
6 ⋅ = 427 2 ⋅ 6 − 5 ⋅ 6 −2 = 12 − = x=2
36
Pu g K opy

36 36
fo C

i.e. 6x = 36
is g
on C

6x = 62
∴ x=2 Refer to 3 : If aM = aN, then M = N.
ot

10.7
H

Solve the following equations.

+2 +3 −2
(a) 5x − 5x = 3000 (b) 6 ⋅ 2x + 8 ⋅ 2x = 400

10B Question 4

10.8
Solve the following equations.
22x − 5 ⋅ 2x + 4 = 0
+1 +2
(a) (b) 9x + 3x =4

SOLUTION
(a) Hint
Observe that 22x = (2x)2. If we let u = 2x, the given equation will be
converted to u2 − 5u + 4 = 0, which is a quadratic equation in u.
10.14 4B Chapter 10

Let u = 2x. Then the equation becomes

u2 − 5u + 4 = 0
(u − 1)(u − 4) = 0 1 −1

u=1 or 4 1 −4
x 0 2
i.e. 2 =2 or 2 By law 6: 1 = 20

∴ x=0 or 2 Refer to 3 : If aM = aN, then M = N.

(b) Hint
Note that 9x = (32)x = 32x = (3x)2 . If we let u = 3x, this equation can
be solved similarly as in (a).
+1 +2
9x + 3x =4
x 2 x
9 ⋅ 9 + 3 ⋅ 3 = 4 9x
+1
= 9x ⋅ 91 and 3x
+2
= 3x ⋅ 32

9 ⋅ (3x)2 + 9 ⋅ 3x − 4 = 0 9x = (32)x = (3x)2

Let u = 3x . Then the equation becomes

l
al Lt na
9u2 + 9u − 4 = 0
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
(3u − 1)(3u + 4) = 0 3 −1

e d
h

1 4
c
3
u = or − +4
bl on rig

3 3
Pu g K opy

1 4
i.e. 3x = or −
fo C

3 3
is g
on C

4
Since 3x > 0 , 3x = − is rejected. This extraneous solution is rejected. The solution that comes up from the
3 process of solving an equation but is not a ‘valid’ solution is called extraneous
solution.
1
3x =
ot

3
H

1
i.e. 3x = 3
−1
Law 7: a − p =
ap
∴ x = −1

REMARK: Students are reminded to check the solutions to see if any of these
solutions need to be rejected.

10.8
Solve the following equations.
2 ⋅ 62x = 11 ⋅ 6x + 6
+1
(a) (b) 25x − 6 ⋅ 5x + 125 = 0

10B Question 5
 Exponential Functions 10.15

10B (Q1 – Q5)

1. Solve the following equations for x > 0.

3
− 1
(a) x 3 = 8 (b) x 4 =
27
10.4

2. Solve the following equations for x > 0. (Give the answers correct to
3 significant figures.)
4
3
(a) 2 x 3 − 15 = 113 (b) x 5 − 8 = 12
10.5

3. Solve the following equations.

(a) 32x = 243 (b) 5 ⋅ 2x = 1.25
10.6

4. Solve the following equations.

+1 −1 +1 −4
(a) 2x − 2x = 48 (b) 2 ⋅ 3x + 7 ⋅ 3x = 493

l
al Lt na
y 10.7

5. Solve the following equations.

r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

52x − 24 ⋅ 5x − 25 = 0
−1
(a) (b) 9x − 244 ⋅ 3x + 27 = 0

e d
h
c
bl on rig

10.8
u
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g
on C

10B
g

Level 1 (Q1 – Q7)

ot
H

Hinted Questions
1. Find the value of x in each of the following.
3
(a) 2 x ⋅ 25 = 2
−1

(b) (3 × 3x)2 = 9

Solve the following equations for x > 0. (Q2 – Q4)

5 3
− 1
2. (a) x 4 = 32 (b) x 2 =
8
10.4

4
3 −
3. (a) 27 x = 64 (b) 16 x 3 = 81

4 4
4. (a) 3x 3 = 243 (b) x2 = 2
10.16 4B Chapter 10

Solve the following equations. (Q5 – Q7)

3
x
3x
5. (a) 2 = 64 (b) 5 4 = 125
10.6

6. (a) 92x = 27 (b) 8 = 16

−2x

1 1
7. (a) 42x = (b) x +1
= 1296
2 6

Level 2 (Q8 – Q17)

Solve the following equations for x > 0. Give the answers correct to 3
significant figures if necessary. (Q8 – Q9)
10.5
3
2 175 7
8. (a) 44 x = 121 (b) =
x3 5
5

l
al Lt na
9. (a) 8x 2 + 23 = 343 (b) y x 3 + 11 = 1

r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
Solve the following equations. (Q10 – Q17)

e d
h
c
+3 +1
(b) 32x + 32x
+1
10. (a) 2x − 2x = 48 = 324
bl on rig

10.7
Pu g K opy

x+1 x x−2 x−3

11. (a) 3⋅2 + 2 = 112 (b) 3 +9⋅3 = 108
fo C
is g
on C

12. (a) 22x − 6 ⋅ 2x + 8 = 0 (b) 32x − 10 ⋅ 3x + 9 = 0

g

−1 −1
13. (a) 2x = 3x (b) 9 ⋅ 2x = 2 ⋅ 32x
+5 +3 −4 −6
ot

14. (a) 5 ⋅ 2x − 8 ⋅ 2x = 24 (b) 7 ⋅ 3x − 27 ⋅ 3x = 324

H

15. (a) 3 ⋅ 9x − 10 ⋅ 3x + 3 = 0 (b) 4 ⋅ 16x − 65 ⋅ 4x + 16 = 0

10.8
x x+1 x x+2
16. (a) 4 −3⋅2 − 160 = 0 (b) 9 − 2 ⋅ 3 = 243
+2 +1
17. (a) 2 ⋅ 25x + 3 ⋅ 5x − 425 = 0 (b) 3 ⋅ 36x + 2 ⋅ 6x − 4320 = 0

Exam Duel

Paper 1
+1
18. Solve 3 ⋅ 9x − 100 ⋅ 3x = 9(16 ⋅ 3x − 1). (4 marks)

Paper 2
+1
19. If α and β are the roots of the equation 4x − 2x = 2x − 2, then 4
α +β
=
A. 1. B. 2. C. 4. D. 8.
(1 mark)

A Formative Assessment
 Exponential Functions 10.17

10.3 Exponential Functions

A Exponential Functions and Their Graphs
Consider the expression y = 2x. For any real value of x , we can find its
corresponding value for y. Therefore, y is a function of x. In this case, we
give a tabular representation of the function as follows:
y = 2x
1
2 −1 = = 0.5
x −3 −2 −1 0 1 2 3 2
1
2 −2 = 2 = 0.25
2x 0.125 0.25 0.5 1 2 4 8 2
1
2 −3 = 3 = 0.125
Table 1 2

Using the information in Table 1, we can plot the graph of the function
y = 2x for −3 ≤ x ≤ 3 (Fig. 1).

l
al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g
on C

ot g

Fig. 1
H

Note that 2x is well defined for all real values of x.

4 Let a be a real constant such that a > 0 and a ≠ 1. Then ax is

well defined for all real values of x. y = ax is a function of x
and we call this function an exponential function.

exponential function 指數函數

10.18 4B Chapter 10

10.9
The figure shows the graph of the exponential function y = ax where a is a
positive constant.

l
al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

(a) According to the graph, find the value of a.

e d
h
c
bl on rig

(b) According to the graph, find the value of a3.

Pu g K opy

(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)

fo C
is g

SOLUTION
on C

(a) According to the graph, y ≈ 0.5 when x = 1 , i.e. a1 = 0.5 .

∴ a = 0.5 (cor. to the nearest grid scale)
ot

(b) According to the graph,

H

y ≈ 0.12 when x = 3.
i.e. a3 = 0.12 (cor. to the nearest grid scale)
 Exponential Functions 10.19

10.9
The figure shows the graph of the exponential function y = ax where a is a
positive constant.

(a) According to the graph, find the value of a.

(b) According to the graph, find the value of a1.5.
(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)

10C Question 1

l
al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
B Features of the Graphs of Exponential Functions

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

10.3A
fo C
is g

1. The figure shows the graph of the exponential function y = 2x for −3 ≤ x ≤ 3.

on C

ot g
H

Fig. 2

(a) What is the y-intercept of the graph of the exponential function y = 2x?

(b) Are there any x-intercepts for the graph of exponential function y = 2x?
10.20 4B Chapter 10

2. Fig. 3 shows the graphs of the exponential functions y = 2x, y = 3x,

x x
1 1
y= and y = on the same rectangular coordinate plane.
2 3

Fig. 3

l
al Lt na
(a) Write down the y-intercepts of the exponential functions y = 3x,
y
r S o atio
x x
1 1
N hin Ed t b
y= and y = .
2 3

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g
on C

x
g

1
(b) Are there any x-intercepts for the graphs of y = 3x, y =
2
x
1
and y = ?
3
ot
H

3. Consider the graphs of y = 2x and y = 3x.

When the value of x increases,
the value of y increases / decreases. Furthermore,
the value of y is increasing / decreasing at a faster / slower rate as
x increases.
x x
1 1
4. Consider the graphs of y = and y = .
2 3
When the value of x increases,
the value of y increases / decreases. Furthermore,
the value of y is increasing / decreasing at a faster / slower rate as
x increases.
 Exponential Functions 10.21

5. Consider the 4 graphs in Fig. 3.

(a) Which graph is symmetric to the graph of y = 2x? What is the
line of symmetry?

x
1
(b) Which graph is symmetric to the graph of y = ? What is
3
the line of symmetry?

6. Let a > 0 and a ≠ 1.

(a) Is there any x-intercept for the graph of y = ax?

l
al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
x
(b) What is the y-intercept of the graph of y = a ?

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

(c) (i) Consider the function y = ax for a > 1. Describe how the
fo C
is g

value of y varies when x increases.

on C

ot g

(ii) Consider the function y = ax for 0 < a < 1. Describe how

H

the value of y varies when x increases.

(iii) Which value in the function y = ax will determine the

rate of increasing/decreasing of the function?

(d) Suggest a function whose graph is symmetric to the graph of

y = ax about the y-axis.
10.22 4B Chapter 10

5 Let a > 0 and a ≠ 1 .

Properties of the graph of an exponential function y = ax can

be summarized as follows:

1 Domain
The domain of y = ax is the set of all real numbers.

2 x-intercept
There are no x-intercepts for the graph of y = ax.

3 y-intercept
The y-intercept of the graph of y = ax is always 1.

4 Increasing/decreasing property
(i) If a > 1, y increases as x increases. The rate of
increase of y is greater for larger values of x.
(ii) If 0 < a < 1, y decreases and approaches 0 as x

l
al Lt na
increases. The rate of decrease of y is smaller for
y
r S o atio
larger values of x.
N hin Ed t b

e d
h

Symmetry
c
5
bl on rig

x
1
x
x 1
The graph of y = a is symmetric to that of y = y= = (a 1 ) x = a 1 x
=a x
Pu g K opy

a a
fo C

about the y-axis.

is g
on C

10.3B
ot

1. In the definition of exponential functions y = ax , we require a > 0 and

H

a ≠ 1 . Use GeoGebra to explore and discuss what would happen if

a = 1 or a < 0.

2. By looking at the graphs of Fig. 3 in Open Discussion 10.3A (p. 10.20)

and using GeoGebra, explore to see whether it is reasonable to conclude
that ‘when a > b, ax > bx for x > 0; ax < bx for x < 0’.
 Exponential Functions 10.23

10.10 M.C.Q.

Let x and y be real numbers. Which of the following statements must be

true?
I. The solution of the equation 2x = −64 is x = −6.
II. If 2x > 2y , then x > y.
III. The x-intercept of the graph of y = 2x is 1.
A. I only
B. II only
C. I and III only
D. II and III only

SOLUTION
Since 2x > 0 for all real values x, it is impossible to have 2x = −64 < 0.
The equation 2x = −64 has no solution.

l
al Lt na
∴ I is wrong.
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
It is obvious that 2x ≤ 2y if x ≤ y. In other words, if 2x > 2y, then x > y.

e d
h
c
∴ II must be true.
bl on rig

Since there are no x-intercept of any exponential function, III is wrong.

Pu g K opy

∴ The answer is B.
fo C
is g
on C

10.10
Let x and y be real numbers. Which of the following statements must be
ot

true?
H

x
1
I. The solution of the equation = 4 is x = −2.
2
x
1
II. The x-intercept of the graph of y = is 1.
2
x y
1 1
III. If x > y, then > .
2 2
A. I only B. II only
C. I and III only D. I, II and III

NOTE: Since the exponential function y = ax is either increasing or decreasing,

its function value will never repeat when x increases from negative
infinity to positive infinity. This means, for any real numbers M and N,
aM ≠ aN if M ≠ N . In other words, if aM = aN , then M = N . This explains
3 .
10.24 4B Chapter 10

C Applications of Exponential Functions

10.11
The figure shows the graph of the function y = 2x. Use the graph
(a) to find the value of 32 , and
(b) to solve the equation 2x = 3 .
(Give the answers correct to 1 decimal place.)

SOLUTION
(a) 32 = 25
5
= 22= 2 2.5
From the graph, when x = 2.5, y ≈ 5.7.

l
∴ 32 = 5.7 (cor. to 1 d. p.)

al Lt na
y
(b) Add the line y = 3 to the graph.
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

The line intersects the graph of y = 2x at (1.6, 3) .

e d
h
c
∴ x = 1.6 (cor. to 1 d. p.)
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

10.11
fo C
is g
on C

Use the graph of the function y = 2x

1
(a) to find the value of , and
2
ot

(b) to solve the equation 2x = 6.

H

(Give the answers correct to 1 decimal place.)

10C Question 2
 Exponential Functions 10.25

10.12 Explain

Dr. Woo, a biologist, studied the population of a certain ant colony and
proposed that the estimated number of ants in that colony satisfied the
function y = p(x) = 900 − 894 × 0.6x , where x is the number of weeks after
he started his studies.
(a) Evaluate p(0) and give an explanation on the meaning of this value.
(b) What is the percentage change of the ant population from the end
of the second week to the end of the third week? (Give the answer
correct to 3 significant figures.)
(c) Can the number of ants in that colony exceed 950? Explain your
answer.

SOLUTION
(a) p(0) = 900 − 894 × 0.60

l
al Lt na
= 900 − 894
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
=6

e d
h

i.e. There were only 6 ants in that ant colony when Dr. Woo started
c
bl on rig

his studies.
Pu g K opy

p(2) = 900 − 894 × 0.62 = 578.16

fo C

(b) Consider
is g
on C

p(3) = 900 − 894 × 0.63 = 706.896

g

706.896 − 578.16
× 100%
Percentage change =
578.16
= 22.3% (cor. to 3 sig. fig.)

ot
H

∴ The population increases by 22.3%.

(c) Note that 0.6x > 0 for all values of x .

That is, p(x) = 900 − 894 × 0.6x
< 900 − 894 × 0 = 900
∴ p(x) cannot exceed 950.
i.e. The number of ants in that colony cannot exceed 950.
 10.26 4B Chapter 10

10.12
Mr. Kin did an experiment in measuring the radioactivity of a certain
radioactive substance. After the experiment, he proposed the formula:
t
1 5 , where t is the number of hours after he started his
N(t) = 1.6 Go to search for the meaning
2 of radioactivity and radioactive
measurement and N(t) is the quantity (measured in grams) of radioactive substance.

substance that still remains and has not yet decayed after t hours.
(a) Evaluate N(0) and give an explanation on the meaning of this value.
N (t + 5)
(b) Evaluate and give an explanation on the meaning of
N (t )
this ratio.
(c) How long will it take the quantity of the radioactive substance that
still remains be less than 0.05 g ?

l
al Lt na
10C Question 3
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
bl on rig

10.13
Pu g K opy

In a city, the number of vehicles V(n) passing through tunnel X in the nth
fo C
is g

year since the start of its operation is given by V(n) = ab2n, where a, b are
on C

positive constants and n is a positive integer. It is known that the number

of vehicles passing through tunnel X in the first year and the second year
since the start of its operation are 4 840 000 and 5 856 400 respectively.
ot

(a) Find a and b. Hence, find the number of vehicles passing through
H

tunnel X in the 4th year since the start of its operation. (Give the
answer correct to the nearest integer.)
(b) Tunnel Y starts to operate since tunnel X has been operated for
4 years. Let U(m) be the number of vehicles passing through
tunnel Y in the mth year since the start of its operation, where
U(m) = 2abm. The Director of Transport claims that after tunnel Y
has been operated, the number of vehicles passing through tunnel X
is more than the number of vehicles passing through tunnel Y in each
year. Do you agree? Explain your answer.
HKDSE reference 2012
DSE
 Exponential Functions 10.27

SOLUTION
(a) Substituting n = 1 and 2 into V(n), we have
ab2 = 4 840 000........(1)
and ab4 = 5 856 400........(2)
(2) ÷ (1):   b2 = 1.21
∴ b = 1.1
Substituting b = 1.1 into (1), we have
a(1.1)2 = 4 840 000
a = 4 000 000
Hence, V(n) = 4 000 000 (1.1)2n
The number of vehicles passing through tunnel X in the 4th year since the start of its operation
= 4 000 000 × 1.12(4)

l
al Lt na
= 8 574 355 (cor. to the nearest integer)
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

(b) When n = 4, m = 0,

e d
h
c
bl on rig

V(4) = 8 574 355, U(0) = 2ab0 = 2a

u

Tunnel Y operates after Tunnel X has been

operated for 4 years.
Pu g K opy

= 2 × (4 000 000)
fo C
is g

= 8 000 000
on C

i.e. V(4) > 2a................(i)

In general,
V(m + 4) = ab2(m 4)
+
ot

= ab2m 8
+
H

= ab2mb8
= ab8b2m
We know ab8 = ab2(4)
= V(4)
∴ V(m + 4) = V(4) ⋅ b2m
On the other hand,
U(m) = 2abm
∴
2ab2m > 2abm b = 1.1 > 1 and m is a positive integer
∴ (bm)2 > bm, i.e. b2m > bm
i.e. 2ab2m > U(m)
∴
V(4) > 2a By (i)
2m 2m
∴ V(m + 4) = V(4) ⋅ b > 2ab > U(m)
DSE

∴ The claim is agreed.

For more DSE Examples, go to
War Zone on P. 10.40.
10.28 4B Chapter 10

10C (Q1 – Q3)

1. The figure shows the graph of the exponential function y = ax, where
a is a positive constant.
(a) From the graph, find the value of a.
(b) From the graph, find the value of a0.5.
(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)
10.9

2. The figure shows the graph of the function y = ax.

Use the graph
5
(a) to find the value of a 2 , and

l
(b) to solve the equation 2ax = 3.

al Lt na
(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
10.11

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g

3. After an air conditioner is turned on, the temperature in a room is

on C

measured. It is found that, after turning on the air conditioner for

x minutes, the room temperature T(x) (in °C) can be expressed as
T(x) = 24 + 10 × 0.8x.
ot

(a) Evaluate T(0) and give an explanation on the meaning of this

H

value.
(b) Find the room temperature after the air conditioner is turned on
for 5 minutes. (Give the answer correct to 3 significant figures.)
(c) Would the room temperature be lower than 20°C? Explain your
answer.
10.12
 Exponential Functions 10.29

10C
Level 1 (Q1 – Q8)

Hinted Questions
1. The figure shows the graph of the exponential function y = bx where b
is a positive constant.

l
al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
(a) According to the graph, find the value of b5.
bl on rig

(b) According to the graph, find the value of x such that bx = 0.8.
Pu g K opy

(Give the answers correct to 1 decimal place.)

fo C
is g
on C

2. Consider the graph of the function y = ax, where a > 0. If (2, 4) and
(4, k) are points lying on the graph, find the value of k.
ot

3. Consider the graph of the function y = ax, where a > 0. If (2, 9) and
H

(h, 3) are points lying on the graph, find the value of h.

4. The figure shows the graph of the function y = a x, where a is a

positive constant.
(a) According to the graph, find the value of a.
(b) According to the graph, find the value of a3.
(c) Use the result of (b) to evaluate a9.
10.9
10.30 4B Chapter 10

5. Let a and b be positive real numbers, x and y be real numbers.

Determine whether each of the following is true or false.
(a) If ax > bx, then a > b.
(b) If a > b , then a < b.
−x −x

(c) If 4x < 5y, then x < y.

(d) If x > y and ax > ay, then a > 1.
(e) If x < y and ax < ay, then a < 1.

6. The figure shows the graph of the function y = ax, the graph of the
function y = bx and the graph of the function y = cx on the same
rectangular coordinate system, where a, b and c are positive constants.
Determine whether each of the following is true or false.
(a) a>b
(b) b < c
(c) a>c

l
al Lt na
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
7. The figure shows the graph of the function y = 3x.
bl on rig

Use the graph

Pu g K opy

(a) to find the value of 27 , and

fo C
is g

(b) to solve the equation 3x = 4.

on C

(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)

10.11
ot
H

8. The figure shows the graph of the function y = 3x.

Use the graph
1
(a) to find the value of , and
3
(b) to solve the equation 3x = 6.
(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)
 Exponential Functions 10.31

Level 2 (Q9 – Q14)

Hinted Questions
9. The figure shows the graphs of the functions y = a x, y = b x and
y = cx on the same rectangular coordinate system, where a, b and c are
positive constants.

Determine whether each of the following must be true.

(a) a>1

l
al Lt na
(b) b > c y
(c) c<1
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

(d) ab > 1

e d
h
c
(e) The coordinates of A are (0, 1).
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

x
10. Consider the graph of the function y = a , where a > 0. If (p, 3) and
fo C
is g

(2p, k) are points lying on the graph, find the value of k.

on C

11. Consider the graph of the function y = ax, where a > 0. If (3, p) and
(k, p2) are points lying on the graph, find the value of k.
ot

12. The figure shows the graph of the function y = 3x.

H

Use the graph

10
(a) to find the value of 1 , and
27
(b) to solve the equation 2 ⋅ 3x = 3.
(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)
 10.32 4B Chapter 10

13. The figure shows the graph of the function y = 5 .

−x

Use the graph

(a) to find the value of 125 , and
+1
(b) to solve the equation 5x = 2.
(Give the answers correct to the nearest grid scale.)

14. After a boiler is turned on, the water temperature inside the boiler
Explainis measured. It is found that, after turning on the boiler for x
minutes, the water temperature T(x) (in °C) can be expressed as
T(x) = 100 − 75 × 1.1 .
−x

(a) Evaluate T(0) and give an explanation on the meaning of this

value.
(b) Find the water temperature after the boiler is turned on for
10 minutes. (Give the answer correct to 3 significant figures.)
(c) Would the water temperature be greater than 100°C? Explain

l
al Lt na
your answer. y
r S o atio
10.12
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g
on C

Exam Duel
ot

Paper 1
H

15. The general term of a sequence is given by T(n) = abn, where a and b are positive real constants and n is
a positive integer. It is known that T(1) = tan 30° and T(3) = tan 60°.
(a) Find the values of a and b. (3 marks)
r
(b) Simplify T(n) into the form k , where k is a positive integer. (2 marks)

Paper 2
x x
1 1
16. The figure shows the graphs of y = a , y = and y =
−x
b c
on the same rectangular coordinate system, where a, b and c are
positive constants. Arrange a, b and c in descending order.

A. a>b>c
B. a>c>b
C. c>b>a
D. b>a>c
(1 mark)
A Formative Assessment
 Exponential Functions 10.33

10.4 Superfood in Mathematics:

Proof of Index Laws for Rational Indices
In this Superfood section, we shall prove index laws 1 to 5 and 7 (p. 10.4)
1
n
for rational indices by defining = a where n is a positive integer.
an
However, before we start, we need to prove some properties of radicals.

A Properties of Radicals
Let a and b be positive real numbers, m, n and k be integers with n > 0
and k > 0.

Then we have the following properties:

n n n
1 a ⋅ b = ab e.g. 3 2 × 3 4 = 3
2×4 =
3
8 =2

l
n n 4 4

al Lt na
a a 32 32 4
2 = e.g. = = 16 = 2
n
y 4
b 2 2
r S o atio
b
N hin Ed t b
n n 3
3
2 3
m
3 ( a) = am e.g. ( 5 ) = 52 = 25

e d
h
c
bl on rig

k n kn 3 3× 2 6
4 a = a e.g. 15 = 15 = 15
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g

PROOF
on C

Property 1: Consider
n n n n n n n n
( a ⋅ b )n = ( a ⋅ b ) ⋅ ( a ⋅ b ) ⋅ … ⋅ ( a ⋅ b )

n pairs
ot

n n n n n n
=( a ⋅ a ⋅ … ⋅ a) ⋅ ( b ⋅ b ⋅ … ⋅ b)
H

     

n terms n terms
n n n n
= ( a) ⋅( b)
= ab n n
n n n ( a )n = a and ( b )n = b
∴ a ⋅ b = ab

Property 2: This can be proved similarly.

Property 3: Consider
n n
[( a )m ]n = ( a )m × n
n By law 3 (the indices are integers): (a p )q = a pq
= ( a )n × m
n
= [( a )n ]m
By law 3 (the indices are integers): (a p )q = a pq
= am
n
n n
( a )n = a
∴ ( a )m = am
m m n
n n
NOTE: By property 3, we take the notation an to denote ( a ) , i.e.
m
an = ( a )m = am .
10.34 4B Chapter 10

Property 4: Consider
k n k n
kn k n
( a ) = (( a) ) By law 3 (the indices are integers): (a p )q = a pq
n
= ( a )n

=a
k n kn
∴ a = a By the definition of nth root

B Proof of Index Laws for Rational Indices

Assume all index laws hold when the indices are integers.

Let a and b be positive real numbers, p and q be rational numbers.

p q p +q
Index law 1: To prove a × a = a .
m1 m
Let p = and q = 2 where m 1 , m 2 , n 1 and n 2 are
n1 n2

l
al Lt na
integers with n1 > 0 and n2 > 0 . y
r S o atio
m1 m2
N hin Ed t b
p q n1 n2
Then a × a = a ×a

e d
h
c
bl on rig

m1n2 m2 n1
u

n1n2 n1n2
=a ×a
Pu g K opy

n1n2 n1n2 m n
a m1n2 × a m2 n1
fo C

= By a n = am
is g
on C

n1n2
g

= a m1n2 × a m2 n1 By property 1 of radicals

n1n2
= a m1n2 + m2 n1 By law 1 (the indices are integers): a p × a q = a p + q
m1n2 + m2 n1
ot

m n
n1n2
=a By a n = am
H

m1n2 m2 n1
+
n1n2 n1n2
=a
m1 m2
+
n1 n2
=a
= a p+q

ap
Index law 2: For = ap −q
, this can be proved similarly.
aq
Index law 3: To prove (a p)q = a pq.
m1 m
Let p = and q = 2 where m 1 , m 2 , n 1 and n 2 are
n1 n2
integers with n1 > 0 and n2 > 0 .
 Exponential Functions 10.35

m1 m2
p q n1 n2
Then (a ) = (a )
n2 n m1 m2
1 n1
m n2
=( a m1 ) 2 By a n1 = a m1 ; a n2 = ( a )m2
n1n2
=( a m1 )m2 By property 4 of radicals
n1n2
= a m1m2 By property 3 of radicals
m1m2
m n
n1n2
=a By a n = am

= a pq
Index law 4: To prove (ab) p = a pb p.
m
Let p = where m and n are integers with n > 0 .
n
m
p
Then (ab ) = (ab ) n
n m
(ab )m

l
n
=

al Lt na
By a n = am
n
y
a mb m
r S o atio
=
N hin Ed t b
p p p
By law 4 (the indices are integers): (ab ) = a b
n n
am ⋅ bm

e d
h

=
c
By property 1 of radicals
bl on rig

m m
m n
= anbn
Pu g K opy

By a n = am
fo C

= a pb p
is g
on C

p
a ap
Index law 5: For = p , this can be proved similarly.
b b
−p 1
Index law 7: To prove a .
ot

=
ap
H

m
Let p = where m and n are integers with n > 0 .
n
−m
−p
Then a = a n
n m n
= a− m By a n = am
n
1 1
= By law 7 (the indices are integers): a − p =
am ap

1
= n By property 2 of radicals
am
1 m n
= m By a n = am

an
1
=
ap
REMARK: As a matter of fact, all the index laws are also valid for real indices. However, the definition of real indices
is beyond the scope of this book. Interested students may look for more information about this from the
Internet or library.
10.36 4B Chapter 10

10
Part 1 : Conventional Questions

Basic (Q1 – Q9)

10.1 Laws of Rational Indices

1. Find the values of the following without using the calculator.
2
6 −
(a) −729 (b) 64 3

2. Let a and b be positive real numbers. Simplify the following

expressions and express the answers with positive indices.
4
1 1 3
2
a ⋅ a3
(a) (a )−3
4 3 6
⋅ (a ) (b) 5

l
al Lt na
−
a y 6

r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

10.2 Equations Involving Indices

e d
h
c
bl on rig

Solve the following equations. (Q3 – Q6)

u

5 2
Pu g K opy

4 2 27 1 −3 16
3. (a) x = (b) x =
fo C

9 8 12 27
is g
on C

1 x +1
4. (a) ⋅6 = 432 (b) 2 ⋅ 34x = 1458
3
ot

53x
+1
(b) 74x
−3
5. (a) − 2 = 23 − 1 = 2400
H

6. (a) 9 ⋅ 32x + 3 ⋅ 3x − 2 = 0 (b) 2 ⋅ 62x − 9 ⋅ 6x − 18 = 0

10.3 Exponential Functions

7. P(h, k) is a point lying on the graph of the function y = ax. Another
point Q on the graph has x-coordinate 2h. Express the y-coordinate of
Q in terms of k.

8. The figure shows the graph of the function y = ax, the graph of the
function y = bx and the graph of the function y = cx on the same
rectangular coordinate system, where a, b and c are positive constants.
ABC is the straight line x = 1 with AB = BC. Determine whether each
of the following is true or false.
(a) c<1
(b) a = 2c
(c) a<b+c
 Exponential Functions 10.37

The value $V of a car after n years of purchase is given by V = 288 000 4

4
9. .
Explain 7
(a) Find the value of the car at the time of purchase.
(b) Find the value of the car after 3 years of purchase. (Give the answer correct to 3 significant figures.)
(c) Alan bought the car 6 years ago. He wants to sell the car to Ben at the present value of the car. If
Ben now has $120 000, does he have enough money to buy the car? Explain your answer.

Miscellaneous (Q10 – Q23)

10. If n is a positive integer, simplify the following expressions.

2 3 n +1 + 8 n − 2 3n +1 ⋅ 3n −1
(a) (b)
2n ⋅ 4 n 9 n −1
n 3n
−1
n −1
25 2 −5 87
(c) (d)

l
3n
4 n

al Lt na
−
y 47 ⋅ 32 5

r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
Solve the following equations. (Q11 – Q17)

e d
h
c
bl on rig

3
u

1
11. 3x 4 + = 27 0
9
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g
on C

52 x − 3 − 1 1
g

12. + = 21
6 3

x 4 x 2
1 1
ot

13. 6 8 =2
2 2
H

2 x+9 x+5
1 1 3
14. 8 10 =
2 4 8

15. 22x
+3
− 17 ⋅ 2x + 2 = 0

1
x+
16. 9 2 − 82 ⋅ 3x + 27 = 0

17. 22x
+3 +2
+ 7 ⋅ 2x = 2x + 140

18. Consider the graph of the function y = ax, where a > 0. If (p, 2), (q, 4) and (r, 8) are points lying on the
graph, express q and r in terms of p.

19. Consider the graph of the function y = ax, where a > 0. If (2, p), (4, q) and (8, r) are points lying on the
graph, express q and r in terms of p.
 10.38 4B Chapter 10

20. The figure shows the graph of the function y = a x, the graph of
the function y = b x and the graph of the function y = c x on the
same rectangular coordinate system, where a, b and c are positive
constants. The graph of y = cx is symmetric to that of y = bx about the
y-axis.
(a) Determine whether each of the following is true or false.
(i) a > c
(ii) ac > 1
(iii) a = 2b
(b) Express b and c in terms of a.

21. The mass w (in grams) of a radioactive substance after t days is given
by w = A ⋅ 4 , where A is a constant. The figure shows the graph of
−t

the function w = A ⋅ 4 .
−t

(a) Find the constant A.

(b) Find the half-life (the length of time for the mass of the

l
al Lt na
substance to drop to half of its initial mass) of the substance.
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
bl on rig

u
Pu g K opy

fo C
is g
on C

ot g

22. The melting point of copper is 1084°C. A copper is heated and its temperature T (in °C) after heating for
H

Explain t
t minutes is given by T (t ) = R ⋅ K 3, where R (in °C) is the room temperature and K is a positive constant.
Assume the room temperature is 25°C. It is given that the temperature of the copper is 36°C after heating
for 6 minutes.
(a) Find the value of K.
(b) The copper is heated for 1 hour.
(i) Find the temperature of the copper. (Give the answer correct to the nearest °C.)
(ii) Someone claims that the copper will melt if it is heated for 3 minutes more. Do you agree?
Explain your answer.

23. John wants to keep fit by doing exercise regularly. A dietitian advises John that his weight loss W (in kg)
and the time he spends on exercise t (in hours) per week is related as W(t) = 3 − 3 ⋅ 2 . John spends
−0.005t

2 hours/day on exercise in that week.

(a) Find the loss in weight in that week.
(b) If John spends 1 more hour/day on exercise in the following week, find the percentage increase of
the weight loss.
(Give the answers correct to 3 significant figures.)
 Exponential Functions 10.39

Part 2 : MC Questions

1.
5
( 9 )300 ( 2 )300 = 7. The figure shows the graphs of the functions
y = a x , y = b x and y = c x on the same
A. ( 6 )300. B. ( 18 )300.
rectangular coordinate system, where a, b
C. 18 . D. 2592 .
210 30
and c are positive constants. Which of the
2. If a = 2 x and b = 5 x, where x is a rational following must be true?
number, then 500x =
A. 5ab. B. 50ab.
3 2
C. a b . D. a2b3.

3. If a and b are rational numbers such that

0 < a < 1 < b, which of the following is the
largest? 1

l
A. ab B. ab A. B.

al Lt na
c>b>a c>a>b
1
C. D.
y
b>c>a b>a>c
C. ba
r S o atio
D. ba
N hin Ed t b

8. Which of the following may represent the

e d
h
c
4. If n is a rational number, then
bl on rig

u
x
1
15 n +1 − 3n ⋅ 5 n +1 graph of the function y = ?
3
Pu g K opy

=
15 n −1
fo C

A.
is g

A. 150. B. 15.
on C

1 1
C. . D. .
150 15
900
1
ot

5. ÷ ( 5 3 )1500 =
B.
H

3
5
300 600
1 1
A. . B. .
15 15
300 600
5 5
C. . D. .
3 3 C.
6. The figure shows the graph of the function
y = 2ax, where a > 1. The coordinates of A are

D.

A. (1, 0). B. (0, 1).

C. (2, 0). D. (0, 2).
10.40 4B Chapter 10

Paper 1
1
The figure shows the graph of the function y = ax for x ≥ 0, where a is a
positive constant.
(a) What are the coordinates of A?
(b) Find the range of values of y when x ≥ 0.
(c) What is the range of values of y when x < 0?

l
SOLUTION

al Lt na
(a) When x = 0, y = a0 = 1.
y
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
∴ The coordinates of A are (0, 1).

e d
h
c
bl on rig

(b) From the figure, a < 1.

u

Hence, when x ≥ 0, y ≤ 1.
Pu g K opy

fo C

Besides, ax is always positive.

is g
on C

∴ The range of values of y is 0 < y ≤ 1.

(c) When x < 0, ax > 1.

The range of values of y is y > 1.
ot

∴
H

Paper 1
Canotta Mock Exam Questions
x6
1. Simplify and express your answer with positive indices.
( x 2 y −3 )4 y
 (3 marks)
2020

x
y =9
2. Solve the system of equations .
y3 x
= 243
 (3 marks)
2021
 Exponential Functions 10.41

Paper 2
1
The figure shows the graph of y = ax, where a is a positive constant.
x
1
If the graph of y = is plotted on the same rectangular coordinate
a
system, which of the following is/are true?
I. The two graphs are symmetrical with respect to the x-axis.
II. The two graphs are symmetrical with respect to the y-axis.
III. The two graphs do not intersect.
A. I only B. II only
C. I and III only D. II and III only

l
SOLUTION

al Lt na
HKDSE reference 2020
x
1
y
The graphs of y = ax and y =
r S o atio
are symmetrical with respect to the y-axis only.
N hin Ed t b
a
II is true and I is not true.

e d
h

∴
c
bl on rig

The graphs intersect at (0, 1).

∴
Pu g K opy

∴ III is not true.

fo C
is g

∴ The answer is B.
on C

2
ot

If the roots of the equation 62x − 3 ⋅ 6x = 2 ⋅ 6x − 6 are α and β , then α + β =

H

A. 1. B. 3.
C. 5. D. 6.
HKDSE reference 2020

SOLUTION
62x − 3 ⋅ 6x = 2 ⋅ 6x − 6
62x − 5 ⋅ 6x + 6 = 0
i.e. (6x)2 − 5 ⋅ 6x + 6 = 0
Let u = 6x, then (6x)2 − 5 ⋅ 6x + 6 = 0 becomes u2 − 5u + 6 = 0.
Since α and β are the roots of (6x)2 − 5 ⋅ 6x + 6 = 0,
6α and 6β are the roots of u2 − 5u + 6 = 0.
i.e. 6α ⋅ 6β = 6
or 6α = 61
+β

α +β = 1
∴
∴ The answer is A.
10.42 4B Chapter 10

Paper 2
Canotta Mock Exam Questions HKDSE Questions
2 2 y+1 = 10x 2 3. The figure shows the graph of y = a x and
1. If , then x = the graph of y = bx on the same rectangular
2 y = 2x 1
coordinate system, where a and b are positive
1
A. or 2. constants. If the graph of y = a x is the
4
reflection image of the graph of y = bx with
1
B. . respect to the y-axis, which of the following
4
are true?
1
C. .
2
D. 2.
2018

l
al Lt na
8 2 n +1
2. =
y
4n+2
r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

A. 2n 1.
−

e d
h
c
B. 23n.
bl on rig

C. 24n 1.
+
I. a<1
Pu g K opy

D. 24n 1.
−
II. b > 1
fo C
is g

2019 III. ab = 1
on C

A. I and II only
B. I and III only
C. II and III only
ot

D. I, II and III
H

HKDSE 2020 Paper 2 Q33

 Exponential Functions 10.43

HKDSE Key Notes and Hot Tips

Key Note 1-5 1-3 Hot Tips
Key Note

1 a>0 a<0
a has only one real nth root. a has only one real nth root.
n is odd 3 3
e.g. The cube root of 8 is 8 = 2. e.g. The cube root of −8 is −8 = −2.
a has two real nth roots. a has no real nth roots.
4
n is even e.g. The 4th roots of 16 are 4 16 = 2 e.g. −16 is not a real number.
4
and − 16 = −2.

2 Let a and b be positive real numbers, p and q be rational numbers, m and n be integers with n > 0 .
Then we have:
Definition:

l
al Lt na
1 m n n
n
y
(i) an a (ii) an a m = ( a )m
r S o atio
= =
N hin Ed t b

The index laws are shown as follows:

e d
h
c
bl on rig

ap
u

1 a p × aq = a p+ q 2 q
= a p−q p q
3 (a ) = a
pq
Pu g K opy

a
fo C

1 1 1 1 5 1 11 1 1
is g

( 4)
+
a6 6 4 2
e.g. (a ) = a2 =a
2
e.g. a 2 a3 = a2 3 = a6 e.g. =a 2 a2
on C

=
g

1
a2

p p p a
p
ap 0
4 (ab ) = a b 5 = 6 a =1
ot

b bp
H

1 6 1
1 1 1 6
4 6 b2 b2 b3
e.g. (2 4 6 2
a ) =2 2 a 2 e.g. 1
= 1
= e.g. 3a0 = 3(1) = 3 and (3a)0 = 1
6 a 2
= 2 2 a3 a 3 a 3

−p 1
7 a =
ap
2 1 1
e.g. 4 = 2 =
4 16

3 Let a be any positive real number and a ≠ 1. M and N are real numbers.

If aM = aN, then M = N.
e.g. If 2x = 26, then x = 6.

4 Let a be a real constant such that a > 0 and a ≠ 1. Then ax is well defined for all real values of x. y = ax
is a function of x and we call this function an exponential function.
10.44 4B Chapter 10

5 Let a > 0 and a ≠ 1. Properties of the graph of an exponential function y = ax can be summarized as follows:
1 Domain
The domain of y = ax is the set of all real numbers.

2 x-intercept
There are no x-intercepts for the graph of y = ax.

3 y-intercept
The y-intercept of the graph of y = ax is always 1.

4 Increasing/decreasing property
(i) If a > 1, y increases as x increases. The rate of increase of y is greater for larger values of x.
(ii) If 0 < a < 1, y decreases and approaches 0 as x increases. The rate of decrease of y is
smaller for larger values of x.

5 Symmetry'
x
1
The graph of y = ax is symmetric to that of y = about the y-axis.

l
al Lt na
y a

r S o atio
N hin Ed t b

e d
h
c
bl on rig

Hot Tips
n
u
3
In general, a n = a for (i)
3
positive odd number n and any real value of a, or −125 = (−5)3 = −5
Pu g K opy

4
(ii) positive even number n and a > 0
4
81 = 34 = 3
fo C
is g

n 2
on C

If a < 0 and n is an even number, a n ≠ a. e.g. (−2)2 = 4 = 2 ≠ −2

2
ot
H

On the calculator, the function keys , 3 and are designed to find the square root, the cube root
x

and the xth root of a certain input respectively.

5
1. To find 17 . 3. To find 12 .
x
Type ‘ 17’ and press EXE . The answer is 4.123 105 626.  
3 Type ‘5 SHIFT ^ 12’
2. To find 15 .
3 and press EXE . The
 
answer is 1.643 751 83.
Type ‘ SHIFT x 3 15’ and press EXE .
The answer is 2.466 212 074.
REMARK: This function also works for negative inputs.

3
On the calculator, the function key ^ is designed to find the powers of certain inputs and the key
a b/c is designed for inputting fractions.
5
e.g. To find 16 4.

Type ‘16 ^ (−) 5 a b/c 4 ’ and press EXE . The answer is 0.031 25.
 Exponential Functions 10.45

Answers
1
Class Practice 1 1 3 b
10. (a) (b) 2
(c) a b 2 (d)
1 a2 1
10.1 (a) 2 (b) −4 (c) a3 a2
5
1
1 (e) ab6 (f)
10.2 (a) 2 (b) 216 (c) a2
32 7 20
1 11. (a) (b)
a 4
12 3
10.3 (a) a6 (b)
b2 17
12. (a) (b) 12
1 66
10.4 (a) 625 (b)
8 25
1
10.5 (a) 6.48 (b) 14 13. (a) a 12 (b) 17

4 a 12
10.6 (a) (b) 5 1 1
3 14. (a) (b)
11
10.7 (a) 3 (b) 3 b7
a6
10.8 (a) 1 (b) 1, 2 a a
15. (a) (b)
10.9 (a) 1.6 (b) 2 1
b2
b2 7
10.10 A 1

l
4
16. (a) (b) x y 6

al Lt na
5
10.11 (a) 0.7 (b) 2.6
x8 y 3
y
10.12 (a) 1.6; Initial weight

r S o atio
N hin Ed t b
1 y8 y6
(b) ; The weight of the substance always be half of the 17. (a) (b)
2
15
x3

e d
h
c
x2
original after 5 hours.
bl on rig

u
13
(c) After 25 hours x 3 17
y5
Pu g K opy

18. (a) (b) x 3

Exercise Drill 10A (p. 10.6) y6
fo C
is g

1 +1
(b) 32(n
− 1)
1. (a) 2 (b) −3 (c) (d) 9 19. (a) 2n
on C

7
20. (a) (i) 3, 3, 3, 3 (ii) 2, −2, 2, −2
1
2. (a) 4 (b) 243 (c) a is negative.
4 (b) a is non-negative or
17 n is odd.
a
3. (a) a 4 (b) 8
ot

3
b3
b2 21.
H

11

Exercise 10A (p. 10.7) a 2

1. (a) 2 (b) 0 (c) 1 (d) 1 22. B

(e) 1 (f) 0 Exercise Drill 10B (p. 10.15)
2 1. (a) 4 (b) 81
2. (a) 5 (b) −7 (c)
3 2. (a) 22.6 (b) 4.45
3 3. (a) 2.5 (b) −2
3. (a) −2 (b) 3 (c) −
8
4. (a) 5 (b) 4
9
4. (a) 3 (b) 32 (c) 5. (a) 2 (b) 4 or −1
4
125 Exercise 10B (p. 10.15)
5. (a) 7 (b) 64 (c)
216 1. (a) −6 (b) 0
1 2. (a) 16 (b) 4
6. (a) 9 (b) 32 (c)
27 16 8
1 3. (a) (b)
7. (a) 4 (b) (c) 24 9 27
20 4. (a) 27 (b) 4
1 b2 b4 5. (a) 2 (b) 4
8. (a) (b) (c)
ab 2 a2 a 3 2
6. (a) (b) −
b a3 b3 4 3
9. (a) (b) (c)
a2 b a 1
7. (a) − (b) −5
4
10.46 4B Chapter 10 T20230484

1 1 7
8. (a) (b) 25 5. (a) (b)
8 3 4
9. (a) 4.37 (b) −2.15 6. (a) −1 (b) 1
10. (a) 3 (b) 2 7. k2
11. (a) 4 (b) 5 8. (a) False (b) True (c) True
12. (a) 1, 2 (b) 0, 2 9. (a) $288 000 (b) $189 000 (c) No
13. (a) 1 (b) 1 129
10. (a) (b) 3
14. (a) −2 (b) 8 64
15. (a) ± 1 (b) −1, 2 (c) −5 n− 2
(d) 24n
16. (a) 4 (b) 3 16
11.
17. (a) 1 (b) 2 81
18. 2, −3 12. 3
19. C 13. 5
14. −3
Exercise Drill 10C (p. 10.28)
15. −3, 1
1. (a) 3 (b) 1.7
16. −1, 3
2. (a) 1.7 (or 1.8) (b) 0.3
17. 2
3. (a) 34; Initial temperature (b) 27.3°C
18. q = 2p, r = 3p
(c) No
19. q = p2, r = p4

l
al Lt na
Exercise 10C (p. 10.29) 20. (a) (i) True (ii) True (iii) False
y
1
r S o atio
1. (a) 0.3 (b) 1.0
N hin Ed t b
(b) b = a , c =
2. 16 a

e d
h

3. 1 1
c
21. (a) 120 (b) day
bl on rig

2
u

4. (a) 2 (b) 8 (c) 512

22. (a) 1.2 (b) (i) 958°C (ii) Yes
5. (a) False (b) False (c) False
Pu g K opy

23. (a) 0.142 kg (b) 48.2%

(d) True (e) False
fo C
is g

6. (a) True (b) False (c) True Part 2: MC Questions

on C

7. (a) 5.2 (b) 1.25 1. D 2. D 3. D 4. A

8. (a) 0.6 (b) 1.65 5. A 6. D 7. B 8. B
9. (a) No (b) Yes (c) No
HKDSE War Zone (p. 10.40)
(d) Yes (e) Yes
ot

Paper 1 Exercise
10. 9
H

11. 6 y11
1.
12. (a) 0.7 (b) 0.36 x2
2. x = −2, y = 3
13. (a) 11.1 (or 11.2) (b) − 0.55
14. (a) 25; Initial temperature (b) 71.1°C Paper 2 Exercise
(c) No 1. D 2. D 3. D
n
1 − 1
15. (a) a = , b = 3 (b) 32
3
16. C

Revision Exercise 10 (p. 10.36)

Part 1: Conventional Questions
1
1. (a) Undefined (b)
16

17
1
2. (a) 1
(b) a 6

a 4

9 27 27
3. (a) (b) ,−
4 512 512
3
4. (a) 3 (b)
2