4

Exponential
and logarithmic
graphs

VCE coverage
Area of study
Units 3 & 4 • Coordinate
geometry

In this chapter
4A Graphs of exponential
functions with any base
4B Logarithmic graphs to any
base
4C Graphs of exponential
functions with base e
4D Logarithmic graphs to base e
4E Finding equations for graphs
of exponential and
logarithmic functions
4F Addition of ordinates
4G Exponential and logarithmic
modelling using graphs
160 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

Graphs of exponential functions with

any base
The function f (x) = a x is an exponential function where a is a positive, real number
which is not 1 (that is, a ∈ R+\{1}). In this chapter, a will take the values of 2, 10 and
Euler’s number e.
An exponential function f (x) can be written f : R → R where f (x) = a x and a ∈R+\{1}.
In the previous chapter it was seen that if x has a positive coefficient, f (x) is an
increasing function and may be used to describe physical growth. Examples of this
include population and bacterial growth, and increases in investment values, vehicle
values, light intensity and temperature.
If x has a negative coefficient, f (x) is a decreasing function and may be used to describe
physical decay. Examples of this include population and bacterial decline, radioactive
decay, temperature cooling and decreases in light intensity and vehicle values.
Graphs with a positive coefficient of x are considered first.

Graphs of f (x) = 2x and f (x) = 10x

The graphs of f (x) = 2x and f (x) = 10 x are shown below.

y y
12 12
10 10 (1, 10)
8 8
6 6
4 4
(0, 1) 2 (1, 2) 2
(0, 1)
x x
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3
f (x) = 2x f (x) = 10x
These graphs have a number of common features:
1. They both cross the y-axis at the point (0, 1) because a0 = 1.
2. The graph does not cross the x-axis; therefore, there are no x-intercepts.
3. There is a horizontal asymptote along the x-axis (y = 0).
4. Another point on the graphs is (1, a).
5. The maximal domain is R.
6. The range is R+.
7. They are both increasing functions. That is, as x → ∞, y → ∞.
8. It can be seen that the greater the value of a, the steeper the graph.

Dilation
A dilation changes the shape of the graph, making it wider or narrower.
Parallel to the y-axis (dilation from the x-axis)
If the coefficient of a x is changed to a positive real number greater than 1, the graph is
stretched along the y-axis and is said to be dilated parallel to the y-axis or dilated from
the x-axis.
This could be written f(x) = Aa x where A is the dilation factor. The graph is stretched
along the y-axis, away from the x-axis because each y-value is being multiplied by the
constant A. If A = 3 and a = 2 the function becomes f(x) = 3 × 2x.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 161
A comparison can be made more easily if graphs are drawn on the same axes.
The graphs of f(x) = 2x, f(x) = 3 × 2x and f(x) = 4 × 2x are shown. The dilation factor, A,
is 1, 3 and 4 respectively.
1. The y-intercept in each case is A. y f(x) = 4 × 2x
2. There are no x-intercepts. (0, 4) f(x) = 3 × 2x
3. Another point on the graph is (1, 2 × A) or (1, 2A). 4 f(x) = 2x
4. The maximal domain is R. 3 (0, 3)
5. The range is R+. 2
6. The x-axis is an asymptote. 1 (0, 1)
7. They are all increasing functions. x
8. As A increases, the graph becomes steeper. –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3

0<A<1
If A is a real number between 0 and 1, the y-values are multiplied by a constant which
is less than 1 and the graph becomes less steep.
A comparison can be made more easily if the graphs are drawn on the same axes.
The graphs of f(x) = 2x, f(x) = 1
--- × 2x and f(x) = 1
--- × 2x are drawn below.
2 4

y f(x) = 2x
f(x) = 1–2 × 2x
2 (1, 2)
f(x) = 1–4 × 2x

(0, 1) (1, 1)

(0, 1–2) 1–
(0, 1–4) (1, 2 )
0 x
–1 1

The dilation factor is 1, 1--- and 1--- respectively.

2 4
1. The y-intercept is A.
2. There are no x-intercepts.
3. Another point on the graph is (1, 2A).
4. The maximal domain is R.
5. The range is R+.
6. The x-axis is an asymptote.
7. They are all increasing functions.
8. As A decreases, the graph becomes less steep and further from the y-axis.

For any positive real value of A, as A increases, the graph of f(x) = A × 2x becomes
steeper and closer to the y-axis. Similarly, as A decreases the graph becomes less
steep and further from the y-axis. The domain, range and horizontal asymptote
stay the same as for f(x) = 2x.

Parallel to the x-axis (dilation from the y-axis)

If the coefficient of x changes, the graph is stretched along the x-axis and is said to be
1
dilated parallel to the x-axis. This can be written f(x) = a kx where --- is the dilation
k
factor. The dilation factor is the reciprocal of the coefficient of x.
162 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

To show the effect of a dilation parallel to the x-axis, the

x
---
2
three graphs f(x) = 2 , f(x) = 2 and f(x) = 2 are drawn
x 2x
y f(x) = 22x
at right. The dilation factors are 1, --1- , and 2 respectively. f(x) = 2x
2
4 x
f(x) = 2 –2
1. The y-intercept is 1.
2. There are no x-intercepts.
2
3. Another point on the graph is obtained by (0, 1)
substituting in an appropriate value for x and
–3 –2 –1 01 2 3 x
then evaluating y.
4. The maximal domain is R.
5. The range is R+.
6. The x-axis is a horizontal asymptote.
7. They are all increasing functions.

For all the graphs discussed so far (that is, of the form f(x) = A × akx, a ∈ R+\{1},
k > 0), the maximal domain is R, the range is R+, the x-axis is the horizontal
asymptote and they are all increasing functions. The dilations have affected the
steepness of the graphs.

WORKED Example 1
x
---
2
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 × 2 , showing the intercepts and the asymptote, and stating
the domain and the range.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
x
---
2
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 2 × 2
2 State the basic shape. An exponential curve with basic shape f(x) = 2x
0
---
2
3 Find the y-intercept. Either let x = 0 or If x = 0, then y = 2 × 2
use the fact that the y-intercept is A in = 2 × 20
x
-- =2×1
the function f(x) = A × a .
k =2
so the y-intercept is 2.
4 Find the horizontal asymptote. The horizontal asymptote is the x-axis. There
are no x-intercepts.
2
---
2
5 Find another point on the graph. If x = 2, y = 2 × 2 = 4.
6 Sketch the graph. y
4 (2, 4) x
---
2
(0, 2) f(x) = 2 × 2

Asymptote y = 0
–3 –2 –1 01 2 3 x

7 State the domain and the range. The domain is R and the range is R+.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 163
Translation
Vertical translation
If a constant is added to the function, the graph is moved up or down and is said to be
translated parallel to the y-axis.
The graph of f(x) = 2x + 1 is shown below with the graph of f(x) = 2x. The graph of
f(x) = 2x has been moved up 1 unit. Every y-value has been increased by 1. The line
y = 1 is the horizontal asymptote.

y
f(x) = 2x + 1
4 f(x) = 2x
(1, 3)
3
(0, 2)
(1, 2)
y=1
(0, 1)
0 x
–1 1 2

The graph of f(x) = 2x − 1 is the graph of f(x) = 2x translated 1 unit down. This means
that the horizontal asymptote is now the line y = −1 and the graph crosses the x-axis.
Therefore, there is an x-intercept. Every y-value has been decreased by 1. The graph of
y = 2x − 1 is shown with the graph of y = 2x.

y f(x) = 2x
4 f(x) = 2x – 1
2 (1, 2)
(0, 1) (1, 1)
01 2 3 x
–3 –2 –1 y = –1

Horizontal translation
The graph of f(x) = 2x − 1 is the graph of f(x) = 2x translated 1 unit to the right.
The graph of f(x) = 2x + 1 is the graph of f(x) = 2x translated 1 unit to the left.
The graph of f(x) = 2x − 1 is shown below with the graph of f(x) = 2x.

y f(x) = 2x
4
(1, 1) f(x) = 2x – 1
2
(0, 1)
(0, 1–2 )
01 2 3 x
–3 –2 –1

Horizontal and vertical translations have the same effect whatever the base.
f(x) = 2 + 10 x + 1 is f(x) = 10 x translated 1 unit to the left and 2 units up. Horizontal
translations keep the same asymptote, domain and range as the original function;
vertical translations keep the same domain, but the range changes.
164 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

It is interesting to note that f(x) = 0.5 × 2x can be written as f(x) = 2x − 1 because

f(x) = 0.5 × 2x
= 1
--- × 2x
2

= 2−1 × 2x
= 2x − 1
A dilation of 0.5 parallel to the y-axis has the same effect on f(x) = 2x as a translation
of 1 unit to the right.

WORKED Example 2
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2x −1 − 2, showing intercepts and asymptotes, and stating the
domain and range.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 2x − 1 − 2
2 State the basic shape. An exponential curve with the same shape as
f(x) = 2x
3 State the translations. Horizontal translation of 1 unit to the right
Vertical translation of 2 units down
4 Find the horizontal asymptote by The horizontal asymptote is y = −2.
translating y = 0 down 2 units.
5 Find the y-intercept. Make x = 0. y-intercept:
If x = 0, then y = 2−1 − 2
= 1
--- −2
2

= −1 1---
2

6 Find the x-intercept. Make y = 0. x-intercept:

If y = 0, then 2x − 1 − 2 = 0
7 Equate the indices. 2x − 1 = 2 1
8 Solve for x. x−1=1
1−x=2
9 Sketch the graph. y
1
(2, 0)
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 x f(x) = 2x − 1 − 2
–1
1
(0, –1–2 )
y = –2
–2

10 State the domain and the range. The domain is R and the range is (−2, ∞).
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 165
For all the graphs of the form f(x) = ax + b + B, where b, B ∈ R and a ∈ R+\{1}, the
maximal domain is R, the range is (B, ∞), the horizontal asymptote is y = B and
they are all increasing functions. The graph remains exactly the same shape as
f(x) = ax.
Reflections
If a negative sign is in front of the a the graph is reflected in the x-axis. (Remember
a > 0.)
The graph of f(x) = −2x is shown with the graph of f(x) = 2x.
Features of f(x) = −2x
y f(x) = 2x
1. f(x) = −2x is the reflection of f(x) = 2x in the x-axis.
2. The y-intercept changes from 1 to −1. 4
3. There are no x-intercepts. (0, 1) 2 (1, 2)
4. The maximal domain is R.
5. The range becomes R−. –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 x
6. The x-axis remains the horizontal asymptote. –2 (1, –2)
7. f(x) = 2x is an increasing function and f(x) = −2x is (0, –1)
a decreasing function. f(x) = –2x
If there is a negative sign before the x term, the graph is reflected in the y-axis. The
graph of f(x) = 2−x is shown with the graph of f(x) = 2x.
Features of f(x) = 2−x
1. f(x) = 2−x is the reflection of f(x) = 2x in the y-axis.
f(x) = 2–x y f(x) = 2x
2. The y-intercept is still 1.
3. There are no x-intercepts. 3
4. The maximal domain is R. (–1, 2) 2 (1, 2)
5. The range is R+.
6. The x-axis remains the horizontal asymptote. 1 (0, 1)
7. f(x) = 2 is an increasing function and
x

f(x) = 2−x is a decreasing function. –3 –2 –1

0
1 2 3
x

WORKED Example 3
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 − 2x − 1 showing intercepts and asymptotes, and stating the
domain and the range.
THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 2 − 2x − 1
2 State the basic shape. An exponential curve with basic shape f(x) = 2x
3 State the transformations. Horizontal translation of 1 unit to the right
Vertical translation of 2 units up
Reflection in the x-axis
4 Find the horizontal asymptote by The horizontal asymptote is y = 2.
translating y = 0, up 2 units.
5 Find the y-intercept by making x = 0. If x = 0, f(x) = 2 − 2−1
= 2 − --1-
2
= 1 1---
2
The y-intercept is 1 1--- .
2
Continued over page
166 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

THINK WRITE/DRAW
6 Find the x-intercept by making y = 0. If y = 0, 2 − 2x − 1 = 0
2x − 1 = 2 1
x−1=1
x=2
The x-intercept is 2.
7 Sketch the graph. y
2 y=2
(0, 3–2 )
1
(2, 0) f(x) = 2 − 2x − 1
0 x
–2 –1 1 2
–1

8 State the domain and the range. The domain is R and the range is (−∞, 2).

remember
remember
1. Graphs of the form f(x) = ax, where a ∈ R+\{1}
(a) The maximal domain is R. (b) The range is R+.
(c) The x-axis is the horizontal asymptote. (d) The y-intercept is 1.
(e) They are all increasing functions.
2. Dilation
(a) Graphs of the form f(x) = Aax, where a, A ∈ R+\{1}, have a y-intercept of A.
A changes the steepness and proximity of the graph to the y-axis when com-
pared with the graph of f(x) = a x. As A increases, the graph becomes
steeper. So f(x) = a x is dilated by a factor of A parallel to the y-axis.
(b) Graphs of the form f(x) = a kx, where a ∈ R+\{1} and k > 0, have a different
steepness than graphs of the form f(x) = a x. As k increases, the graph becomes
more steep (that is, it gets closer to the y-axis). The y-intercept remains the
same. So f(x) = a kx is dilated by a factor of 1--- parallel to the x-axis.
3. Translation k
(a) Graphs of the form f(x) = a + B, where a ∈ R+\{1}, B ∈ R, have a y-intercept
x

of 1 + B, a horizontal asymptote of y = B and a range of (B, ∞). If B < 0 there

is one x-intercept. If B > 0 there are no x-intercepts.
(b) Graphs of the form f(x) = ax + b, where a ∈ R+\{1}, b ∈ R, have a y-intercept
of ab. They are the same shape as f(x) = a x but have been translated b units
to the left if b > 0 and to the right if b < 0.
4. Reflection
(a) Graphs of the form f(x) = −a x, where a ∈ R+\{1}, have a y-intercept of −1,
a range of R− and they are decreasing functions. They are the same shape as
f(x) = a x but have been reflected in the x-axis.
(b) Graphs of the form f(x) = a−x, where a ∈ R+\{1}, have the same key features
as f(x) = a x but are decreasing functions; they have been reflected in the y-axis.
5. Combinations of transformations
For all the graphs of the form f(x) = A × ax + b + B, where b, B, A ∈ R and a ∈
R+\{1}, the maximal domain is R, the range is (B, ∞), the horizontal asymptote
is y = B and they are all increasing functions.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 167
Graphs of exponential
4A functions with any base
WORKED 1 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions, showing the intercepts and the
Example
1
asymptote, and stating the domain and range of each one.
a f(x) = 2x b f(x) = 10 x
c f(x) = 2 × 10 x
d f(x) = 3 × 2x
e f(x) = 0.3 × 2 x
f f(x) = 0.5 × 10 x
g f(x) = 2 3x
h f(x) = 102x
i f(x) = 5 × 32xx j f(x) = 4 × 23xx
--- ---
2 3
k f(x) = 2 × 10 l f(x) = 2 × 2
WORKED 2 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions, showing, intercepts and asymp-
Example
2
totes and stating the domain and range of each one.
a f(x) = 2x + 1 b f(x) = 3x + 2
c f(x) = 3 − 3
x
d f(x) = 2x − 4
x+2
e f(x) = 2 f f(x) = 10x + 1
x−4
g f(x) = 3 h f(x) = 2x − 3
i f(x) = 2x + 1 − 8 j f(x) = 10x − 2 + 1
WORKED 3 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions, showing intercepts and asymp-
Example
3
totes, and stating the domain and range of each one.
a f(x) = −2x b f(x) = −10 x
−x
c f(x) = 10 d f(x) = 2−x
e f(x) = 1 − 3 x
f f(x) = 10 − 10 x
g f(x) = 2 + 10−x h f(x) = 1 + 2−x
1−x
i f(x) = 2 − 2 j f(x) = 1 − 32 − x
4 Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 × 31 − x, showing the intercepts and asymptotes and stating
the domain and range.
5 Sketch the graph of the function f: R → R where f(x) = −3 × 2x − 1, showing the
intercepts and asymptotes and stating the domain and range.
6 Sketch the graph of the function f: R → R where f(x) = 5 − 4 × 31 − x showing the
intercepts and asymptotes and stating the domain and range.
7 State the transformation of y = 2x needed to sketch the graphs of the following
functions. Give details of each transformation.
a y = 23x b y = 24x c y = 2 × 2x
d y=3×2 x
e y = −2 x
f y = 2−x
g y=2 +1 x
h y=2 −3 x
i y = 2x − 1
j y = 2x + 5
8 Each of the following functions is a translation of f(x) = 10 x. State how far each graph
is translated, and in which direction.
a f(x) = 10 x + 4 b f(x) = 10 x − 2 c f(x) = 10 x + 2
x−3
d f(x) = 10 e f(x) = 10 − 3
x
f f(x) = 2 + 10 x
x−1 2+x
g f(x) = 10 h f(x) = 10 i f(x) = 5 + 10 x + 1
x−4 x−3
j f(x) = 10 +2 k f(x) = 10 −4 l f(x) = 10 x + 2 − 3
168 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

9 Write down the domain and range for each of the following graphs and the equations
for the horizontal asymptotes.
a y b y c y
6 6
4
4
4 (0, 4)
2 (0, 2) y=3
2 (0, 2)
2
y=1
0 x
–3 –2 –1 1 2
0 1 x 0 1 x
–3 –2 –1 2 –3 –2 –1 2
d y e y f y
2
y=1 2
6
y=1
x (1, 0)
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 4 (0, 4) x
–1 0 1 2 3
–2 y=2 2
–2 (0, –2)
0 x
–3 –2 –1 1 2 3

10 If the graph of f(x) = 2x is translated 1 unit up and reflected in the x-axis, what is the
new equation?
11 If the graph of f(x) = 1 − 2x + 3 is translated 2 units to the right and dilated by factor 3
parallel to the y-axis, what is the new equation?

12 multiple choice
The domain and range of the graph of f(x) = 102x − 1 + 3 are respectively:
A R, R B R, [−1, ∞) C [3, ∞), R D [1, ∞), R E R, (3, ∞)

13 multiple choice
The y-intercept of the graph of f(x) = 10−x + 1 is:
A 1 B 2 C −1 D −2 E 11

14 multiple choice
When the graph of f(x) = 2x − 1 − 4 is translated
3 units down and 2 units to the left, it becomes:
A f(x) = 2x − 3 −7 B f(x) = 2x − 3 − 1
x+1
C f(x) = 2 −7 D f(x) = 2x + 1 − 1
x−2
E f(x) = 2 −6
15 Under certain conditions a mathobacillus bacterial
colony doubles its numbers every minute. The
population can be modelled by:
P = 50 × 2t
where P is the number of bacteria t minutes after
counting has begun.
a Find the number of bacteria when t = 0.
b Find the number of bacteria after 3 minutes.
c Sketch the graph of the population as a func-
tion of time.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 169
Logarithmic graphs to any base
The function f(x) = logax is a logarithmic function where a is a positive, real number
which is not 1 (that is, a ∈ R+\{1}). Logarithms to base 10 appear in many scientific
formulas. An example of this is the intensity of earthquakes which is measured on the
Richter scale.
Remember that logax does not exist when x < 0.
In this course only graphs of functions where a > 1 are considered. Graphs with a
positive coefficient of x will be considered first.

Graphs of f(x) = log2 x and f(x) = log10 x

The graphs of f(x) = log2 x and f(x) = log10 x are shown below.

y y
(2, 1) (10, 1)
2 1
(1, 0)
1
(1, 0)
x x
–1 0 1 2 3 0 2 4 6 8 10
–1
–2 –1

f(x) = log2 x f(x) = log10 x

These graphs have a number of common features:

1. They are both increasing functions; that is, as x → ∞, y → ∞.
2. Both graphs cross the x-axis at the point (1, 0), as loga1 = 0
3. The y-axis is a vertical asymptote, so there is no y-intercept. This is because loga 0
is undefined.
4. There are no negative values of x because the log of a negative number does not
exist.
5. Another point on the graph is (a, 1), where a is the base because logaa = 1.
6. The domain is R+.
7. The range is R.
8. It can be seen that the smaller the value of a, the steeper the graph or the more
rapidly the graph rises.

Dilation
Dilation parallel to the y-axis (or from the x-axis)
If the coefficient of logax is changed to a positive real number greater than 1, the graph
is stretched along the y-axis and is said to be dilated parallel to the y-axis or dilated
from the x-axis. This could be written f(x) = Alogax where A is the dilation factor. The
graph is stretched along the y-axis because each y-value is being multiplied by the con-
stant, A.

The asymptote, x-intercept, domain and range are the same for all graphs of the
form f(x) = Alogax.
170 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

Graphs with different values of A y (10, 2) f(x) = 2 log10 x

can be more easily compared by
drawing them on the same axes.
(10, 1) f(x) = log10 x
The graphs of f(x) = 2 log10 x, 1
f(x) = 1–2 log10 x
f(x) = log10 x and f(x) = 1--- log10 x are 1–
2 (10, 2 )
drawn at right. Notice that, as A increases, the x
0 2 4 6 8 10
graph becomes steeper.
–1
1
---
Note: f(x) = log10 x can be written as f(x) = log10 x and is drawn in the same way.
1 2
---
2

Dilation parallel to the x-axis (or from the y-axis)

If the coefficient of x is changed to a positive real number not equal to 1, the graph is
stretched along the x-axis and is said to be dilated parallel to the x-axis or dilated from
1
the y-axis. This could be written f(x) = logakx where --- is the dilation factor. When k > 1,
k
the graph moves away from the x-axis.

To see the effect of a dilation y

parallel to the x-axis the graphs f(x) = log10 2x
1
f(x) = log10 2x, f(x) = log10 x f(x) = log10 x
and f(x) = log10 ( 1--- x) are drawn ( 1–2 , 0) 1
f(x) = log10 ( –2 x)
2
at right.
1. The vertical asymptote is the 0 2 (2, 0) x
4 6
y-axis (log10 0 is undefined). (1, 0)
2. The x-intercept occurs when
kx = 1 (log10 1 = 0). –1

3. The domain is R+ and the

range is R.

For all graphs discussed so far (that is, of the form y = Alogakx, A ∈ R+\{1}, k > 0),
the maximal domain is R+, the range is R, the y-axis is the vertical asymptote and
they are all increasing functions. The graphs have varied in their x-intercepts. The
1
y dilation factor is A. The x dilation factor is --- .
k

If the base is 2, the graph is steeper than when the base is 10 but the vertical
asymptote, intercept, domain and range stay the same as for f(x) = A log10kx.
The graphs of f(x) = 2 log103x and f(x) = 2 log23x
y f(x) = 2 log2 3x
are shown at right.
1. The vertical asymptote is the y-axis.
2. The x-intercept is 1--- . 2
3
3. The domain is R+ and the range is R. 1
f(x) = 2 log10 3x
4. The basic graph is dilated by factor 2 parallel to ( – , 0)
3
0 x
the y-axis and factor 1--- parallel to the x-axis. 1 2 3
3
–2
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 171
WORKED Example 4
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 log10 3x, showing the intercepts and the asymptote, and state
the domain, range and the kind of transformation.
THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 2 log10 3x
2 State the basic shape. A logarithmic graph with basic shape
f(x) = log10 x
3 Find the vertical asymptote (log10 0 is The vertical asymptote is the y-axis.
undefined).
4 Find the x-intercept. x-intercept:
Remember that log10 1 = 0. Let y = 0, 2 log10 3x = 0
3x = 1
x = 1---
3
The x-intercept is 1--- .
3
5 Find the y-intercept. There are no y-intercepts.
6 Mark another point on the graph. Let x = 10------ , y = 2 log10 10
3
Choose one which makes 3x equal the =2×1
base.
=2
Coordinates are (3 --1- , 2)
3
7 Sketch the graph. y 1
(3–3 , 2)
2
1 f(x) = 2 log10 3x
( –3 , 0)
0 x
1 2 3 4 5
Asymptote x = 0
–2

8 State the domain and the range. The domain is R+ and the range is R.
9 State the transformations. The dilations are of factor 2 parallel to the
y-axis and factor 1--- parallel to the x-axis.
3

Translation
Translations may be either vertical or horizontal.
y
Vertical translation
If a constant is added to the function, the graph is moved up 2
or down and is said to be translated parallel to the y-axis. (1, 1)
1
The graph of f(x) = 1 + log10 x is shown at right. (101– , 0)
1. The graph of y = log10 x is translated 1 unit up, so all 0 1 2 3
x
values of y are increased by 1. (For example, (1, 0) –1
becomes (1, 1).) –2
2. The vertical asymptote is the y-axis (log10 0 is undefined).
f(x) = 1 + log10 x
3. The domain is R+ and the range is R.
172 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

4. To find the x-intercept, let y = 0.

1 + log10x = 0
log10x = −1
10−1 = x (ay = x ⇒ logax = y)
x= 1
------
10
1
The x-intercept is ------ .
10
If the graph of f(x) = log10x is translated y
1 unit down, the result is f(x) = log10x − 1 (10, 0)
(drawn at right). All values of y are decreased 0 x
2 4 6 8 10
by 1. –1
–2

–3
f(x) = log10 x − 1

Horizontal translation
If a constant is added to x, the graph of f(x) = log10x is translated horizontally. For
example:
1. f(x) = log10(x + 1) is f(x) = log10x translated 1 unit to
the left. y x=1
2. f(x) = log10(x − 1) is f(x) = log10x translated 1 unit to
the right. (2, 0)
The graph of f(x) = log10(x − 1) is drawn at right. 0 x
2 3 4 5
–1
1. The vertical asymptote occurs at log100, that is,
–2
when x = 1.
2. The x-intercept occurs when y = 0. There is a y-intercept f(x) = log10 (x − 1)
when the graph is translated to the left (at x = 0).

For all graphs of the form f(x) = loga (x + b) + B, where b and B ∈ R and
a ∈ R+\{1}, the maximal domain is (−b, ∞), the range is R, the vertical asymptote is
x = −b and they are all increasing functions. The graph has exactly the same shape
as f(x) = logax.

WORKED Example 5
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 1 + log10(x + 2), showing intercepts and asymptotes, and stating
the domain, range and transformations. Give intercepts to 1 decimal place.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 1 + log10(x + 2)
2 State the basic shape. Logarithmic graph, basic shape f(x) = log10 x
3 Find the vertical asymptote (log100 is x+2=0
undefined). x = −2 is the vertical asymptote.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 173

THINK WRITE/DRAW
4 Find the x-intercept. If y = 0, 1 + log10(x + 2) = 0
log10(x + 2) = −1
5 Use the law ax = y ⇔ loga y = x. x + 2 = 10−1
x = 0.1 − 2
= −1.9
The x-intercept is −1.9.
6 Find the y-intercept. If x = 0, y = 1 + log10 (0 + 2) (exact answer)
≈ 1 + 0.301 03
≈ 1.3 (1 decimal place)
The y-intercept is 1.3.
7 Sketch the graph using exact values. y
x = –2
2
(0, 1 + log10 2)
(–1.9, 0)

0 x
–2 2 4 6 8
f(x) = 1 + log10 (x + 2)
8 State the domain and the range. The domain is (−2, ∞) and the range is R.
9 State the translations. The horizontal translation is 2 units to the left
and the vertical translation is 1 unit up.

Reflections
If there is a negative sign in front of the logax term, the graph is reflected in the x-axis.
The graphs of f(x) = log10x and f(x) = −log10x
are shown at right. y
1. The vertical asymptote is the y-axis (log100 is undefined). f(x) = log10 x
2. The x-intercept is 1 (log101 = 0). 1
(10, 1)
3. There are no y-intercepts.
(1, 0)
4. The domain is R+ and the range is R. 0 2 4 6 8 10 x
5. f(x) = log10x is an increasing function and
f(x) = −log10x is a decreasing function. (10, –1)
–1 f(x) = –log10 x
If there is a negative sign in front of the x term,
the graph is reflected in the y-axis. For example,
f(x) = log10(−x) is a reflection of f(x) = log10x in the y
y-axis. f(x) = log10 (–x) f(x) = log10 x
1
The graphs of f(x) = log10x and f(x) = log10(−x) are (–10, 1) (10, 1)
shown at right.
(–1, 0) (1, 0)
1. The vertical asymptote is the y-axis (log100 is x
–10 –2 2 10
undefined).
2. The x-intercepts are ±1 (log101 = 0). –1
3. There are no y-intercepts.
4. The domain is R+ for y = log10x and R− for y = log10(−x).
5. The range is R.
6. f(x) = log10x is an increasing function and f(x) = log10(−x) is a decreasing function.
174 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

WORKED Example 6
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 log10 (3 − x) − 2, showing intercepts and asymptotes, and stating
the domain, range and transformations. Give exact values or round to 3 decimal places.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 2 log10(3 − x) − 2
2 State the basic shape. Logarithmic graph, f(x) = log10x
3 Find the vertical asymptote (log100 For the vertical asymptote,
undefined). 3−x=0
3 − x = 3 is the vertical asymptote.
4 Find the x-intercept. If y = 0, 2 log10(3 − x) − 2 = 0
2 log10(3 − x) = 2
log10(3 − x) = 1
3 − x = 101
x = −7
The x-intercept is −7.
5 Find the y-intercept. If x = 0, y = 2 log103 − 2
If x = 0, y = −1.046 (to 3 decimal places)
The y-intercept is −1.046.
6 Sketch the graph. y
(–7, 0)
0 2 x
–6 –4 –2
(0, 2 log10 3 – 2)
–2 x=3

f(x) = 2 log10(3 − x) − 2
7 State the domain and the range. The domain is (−∞, 3) and the range is R.
8 State the transformations. Reflection in the y-axis
A dilation 2 units parallel to the y-axis
A vertical translation 2 units down
A horizontal translation 3 units to the right

remember
remember
1. The function f(x) = logax is a logarithmic function where a ∈ R+\{1}.
(a) The vertical asymptote is the y-axis, so there are no y-intercepts.
(b) The graph crosses the x-axis at (1, 0) because loga1 = 0.
(c) The domain is R+; that is, there are no negative values of x.
(d) The range is R.
2. Dilation
(a) The function f(x) = A logax dilates the graph of f(x) = logax by a factor of A
units parallel to the y-axis or from the x-axis. The vertical asymptote,
x-intercept, domain and range remain the same. As A increases, the graph
becomes steeper.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 175
1
(b) The function f(x) = logakx dilates the graph of f(x) = logax by a factor of ---
k
parallel to the x-axis or from the y-axis. The vertical asymptote, domain and
1
range stay the same, but the x-intercept is --- . As k increases, the graph
k
becomes steeper and the x-intercept becomes smaller.

3. Translation
(a) The function f(x) = logax + B translates the graph of f(x) = logax vertically
B units. The vertical axis, domain and range remain the same but the
x-intercept changes. There is no change in the shape of the graph.
(b) The function f(x) = loga (x + b) translates the graph of f(x) = logax
horizontally b units. The shape and the range remain the same but the
vertical asymptote, the x-intercept and the domain change:
(i) The vertical asymptote becomes x = −b.
(ii) The graph crosses the x-axis at (1 − b, 0).
(iii) The domain is (−b, ∞).
4. Reflection
(a) The function f(x) = −logax reflects the graph of f(x) = loga x in the x-axis.
All key features remain the same but the graph is a decreasing function
instead of an increasing function.
(b) The function f(x) = loga(−x) reflects the graph of f(x) = logax in the y-axis.
The vertical asymptote and the range remain the same but the x-intercept
and the domain change.
(i) The graph crosses the x-axis at (−1, 0).
(ii) The domain is (− ∞, 0).

Logarithmic graphs to any

4B base
1 Find the vertical asymptote of each of the following functions.
a f(x) = log2 x b f(x) = log10 x c f(x) = 2 log10 x
d f(x) = 5 log2 x e f(x) = log2 3x f f(x) = log10 4x
g f(x) = 3 log10 2x h f(x) = 2 log2 3x
WORKED 2 Sketch the graph of each of the functions in question 1, showing the intercepts and
Example
4
asymptotes, and stating the domain and range of each one.
3 State the horizontal and vertical translations required to transform f(x) = log2 x
into the following functions.
a f(x) = log2 (x + 2) b f(x) = log2 (x + 1) c f(x) = log2 (x − 3)
d f(x) = log2 (x − 4) e f(x) = 1 + log2 (x − 5) f f(x) = log2 (x − 3) + 2
g f(x) = 2 + log2 (x + 1) h f(x) = 3 + log2 (x + 1) i f(x) = log2 (x + 3) − 2
j f(x) = log2 (x + 1) − 2
WORKED
Example
4 Sketch the graph of each of the functions in question 3, showing the intercepts
5
and asymptotes, and stating the domain and the range of each one.
176 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

5 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions showing intercepts and asymp-
totes, and stating the domain, range and the kind of reflection of f(x) = log10 x.
a f(x) = −log10 x b f(x) = −2 log10 x c f(x) = log10 (−x)
d f(x) = 3 log10 (−x) e f(x) = 1 − log10 x f f(x) = 1 + log10 x
g f(x) = 2 + log10 (−x) h f(x) = 2 − log10 (−x)

6 Sketch the graph of f(x) = log2 (2x − 1), showing intercepts and asymptotes, and
stating the domain, range and transformations of the graph f(x) = log2 x.

WORKED 7 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions, showing intercepts and
Example
6 asymptotes, and stating the domain and range of each one. Give exact values or round
to 1 decimal place.
a f(x) = 2 log2 x + 3 b f(x) = 3 log10 x + 1 c f(x) = log10 (1 − x)
d f(x) = log10 (3 − x) e f(x) = 1 − 2 log2 x f f(x) = 2 − 5 log10 x
g f(x) = 3 log10 (x + 1) − 2 h f(x) = 4 log2 (x − 2) − 1 i f(x) = 1 + 2 log2 3x
j f(x) = 3 − 4 log10 2x

8 Each graph in question 7 is a transformation of the graph of f(x) = loga x, a = 2, 10.

State the base of each graph and the kinds of transformation that have taken place.

9 Sketch the graph of f: R → R where f(x) = 3 log2 (2 − x) + 1, showing all key features
and stating the domain and range.

10 Sketch the graph of f: [0, 10] → R where f(x) = 3 log10 (x + 1) − 2, showing key
features.

11 multiple choice
When the function f(x) = log2 (x + 2) is translated 2 units up and 3 units to the left, the
function becomes:
A f(x) = log2 (x + 4) + 3 B f(x) = log2 (x + 5) + 2 C f(x) = log2 (x − 1) + 2
D f(x) = log2 (x + 5) − 3 E f(x) = log2 (x − 1) + 2

Graphs of exponential functions with

base e
Remember that scientific calculators and graphics calculators have an e x function
which is treated in the same way as any other number. An answer given in terms of e is
an exact answer, whereas the calculator gives an approximate value of 2.718 281 828
(correct to 9 decimal places). y f(x) = 10x
Graphs of exponential functions with base e are drawn in f(x) = ex
4 f(x) = 2x
exactly the same way as with any other base. The graph of
f(x) = e can be dilated, translated and reflected in the same way.
x 3 (1, e)
The graphs of f(x) = e , f(x) = 2 and f(x) = 10 are shown at
x x x 2 (1, 2)
right. The graph of f(x) = e x is shown in red. (0, 1)
It can be seen that f(x) = 10 x is steeper than f(x) = ex x
–2 –1 0 1 2
and f(x) = 2 is less steep than f(x) = e .
x x
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 177
Features common to all three graphs
1. The graphs all cross the y-axis at the point (0, 1).
2. The horizontal asymptote is the x-axis or the line y = 0.
3. The domain is R.
4. The range is R+.
5. They are all increasing functions.

WORKED Example 7
State the transformations of f(x) = e x needed to form the graph of f(x) = 2e3x − 1.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 2e3x − 1
2 State the dilation. The coefficient of e x Dilation by a factor of 2 units parallel to the
gives the dilation parallel to the y-axis. y-axis
The reciprocal of the coefficient of x Dilation by a factor of 1--- units parallel to the
3
gives the dilation parallel to the x-axis. x-axis
3 State the translation. The vertical The graph is translated 1 unit down.
translation is given by the constant
added to the e x term.

WORKED Example 8
Sketch the graph of f(x) = e . On the same set of axes sketch the graph of f(x) = ex − 2,
x

marking the asymptote and y-intercept, and stating the kind of transformation, the
domain and the range. Give exact answers.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule for the first graph. f(x) = e x
2 State the basic shape. Exponential curve
3 State the horizontal asymptote. The horizontal asymptote is the x-axis.
4 Find the y-intercept by making x = 0. If x = 0, y = e0
y = 1 is the y-intercept.
5 Draw the graph. y f(x) = ex
2
Asymptote y = 0
(0, 1)
x
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3
6 Write the rule for the second graph. f(x) = e x − 2
7 State the transformation. The horizontal The horizontal translation is 2 units to the right.
translation is given by the constant
added to the x term.
8 State the horizontal asymptote, which is The horizontal asymptote is the x-axis.
the same as for f(x) = e x.
Continued over page
178 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

THINK WRITE/DRAW
9 Find the y-intercept by making x = 0. If x = 0, y = e0 − 2
y = e−2
1
= ----2-
e
10 Sketch the graph on the same set of axes. y f(x) = ex
2 f(x) = e (x – 2)
(0, e–2)
(0, 1) (2, 1) Asymptote y = 0
x
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3

11 Check the accuracy of your graph by transforming (0, 1) → (2, 1)

the point (0, 1) and marking it on your graph.
12 State the domain and the range which are the The domain is R and the range is R+.
same for both graphs.

The coefficient of the e x term shows the dilation parallel to the y-axis and the
reciprocal of the coefficient of the x term shows the dilation parallel to the x-axis.

WORKED Example 9
Sketch the graph of y = 3e , marking the asymptote and intercept, and stating the
2x

transformations, domain and range.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 3e2x
2 State the basic shape. Exponential curve
3 State the transformations. Dilation by a factor of 3 units parallel to the y-axis
1
and dilation by a factor of --- unit parallel to the x-axis
2
4 Find the asymptote, recognising that The horizontal asymptote is the x-axis.
it is unchanged by dilation.
5 Find the y-intercept by making x = 0 If x = 0, y = 3e2 × 0
or by multiplying y values of f(x) = e x If x = 0, y = 3 × 1
by 3. (0, 1) → (0, 3) If x = 0, y = 3
so y-intercept is 3.
6 Sketch the graph. y
4
(0, 3) f(x) = 3e2x
2
Asymptote y = 0
x
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3
7 State the domain and range. The domain is R and the range is R+.

The vertical translation is given by the constant added to the e x term.

The horizontal translation is given by the constant added to the x term.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 179
WORKED Example 10
Sketch the graph of f(x) = e x − 2 + 1, marking the asymptote and intercept, and stating the
transformations, domain and range. Use a graphics calculator to find the y-intercept and
round the answer to 2 decimal places.
THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = e x − 2 + 1
2 State the basic shape. Exponential curve
3 State the transformations. The horizontal translation is 2 units to the right
and the vertical translation is 1 unit up.
4 Find the asymptote by translating the The horizontal asymptote is y = 1.
asymptote of f(x) = e x up one unit.
5 Find the y-intercept. On your If x = 0, y ≈ 1.14 (to 2 decimal places)
calculator, press 2nd [CALC] and so the y-intercept is 1.14
select 1: value. Enter 0 for X= and then
press ENTER to find the y-intercept.
6 Find another point by translating the (0, 1) → (2, 2)
y-intercept of f(x) = e x to the right by
2 units and up by 1 unit.
7 Sketch the graph. y

(0, 1.14) 2 (2, 2)

y=1

x f(x) = e x − 2 + 1
–1 0 1 2 3

8 State the domain and the range. The domain is R and the range is (1, ∞).

A reflection in the x-axis is shown by a negative sign before the e x term.

A reflection in the y-axis is shown by a negative sign before the x term.

WORKED Example 11
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 − e−x, marking the asymptote and intercepts, and stating the
transformations, domain and range. Give exact answers.
THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 State the rule. f(x) = 2 − e−x
2 State the basic shape. Exponential curve
3 State the transformations. A reflection in the x-axis and a reflection in the
y-axis. The vertical translation is 2 units up.
4 Find the horizontal asymptote by The horizontal asymptote is y = 2.
translating the asymptote of f(x) = e x up
2 units.
Continued over page
180 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

THINK WRITE/DRAW
5 Find the y-intercept by making x = 0 or If x = 0, y = 2 − e−0
by reflecting (0, 1) in the x-axis and =2−1
translating it up 2 units. =1
or (0, 1) → (0, −1) → (0, 1)
The y-intercept is 1.
6 Find the x-intercept by making y = 0 If y = 0, 2 − e−x = 0
and solving the equation. e−x = 2
1 1
e−x = ----x ---- = 2
x
e e
loge e x = x loge e ex = --1-
2
loge e x = x × 1 loge e x = loge 1---
2
x = loge 1---
2
so the x-intercept is loge 1--- .
2
7 Sketch the graph.
y
y=2
2
(loge 1–2 , 0)
(0, 1) f(x) = 2 − e−x
0 x
–1 1
–2

8 State the domain and the range. The domain is R and the range is R−.

The graphs of f(x) = e2x, f(x) = e2x − 2, and

y f(x) = e 2x
f(x) = e2x − 1 are drawn at right.
It can be seen that the point (0, 1) in f(x) = e 2x – 1
2
f(x) = e2x becomes (1, 1) in f(x) = e2x − 2 and (0, 1)
f(x) = e 2x – 2
( 1--- , 1) in f(x) = e2x − 1. From this it can be seen 1 (1, 1)
2
that when f(x) = e2x is translated one unit to the (0, e–1) 1
( —2 , 1)
right it becomes f(x) = e2x − 2 or f(x) = e2(x − 1), so it (0, e–2)
is necessary to factorise the index in order to see the 0 x
–1 1
horizontal translation more easily.
Transformations can be represented in the following way:
1. Dilation of factor A parallel to the y-axis can be written as y = Af (x), A > 0.
1
2. (a) Dilation of factor --- parallel to the x-axis can be written as y = f(kx), k > 0.
k
(b) Dilation by factor k parallel to the x-axis can be written as y = f  --- x , k > 0.
1
k 
3. (a) Translation of B units up can be written as y = f(x) + B, B > 0.
(b) Translation of B units down can be written as y = f(x) − B, B > 0.
4. (a) Translation of b units to the right can be written as y = f(x − b), b > 0.
(b) Translation of b units to the left can be written as y = f(x + b), b > 0.
5. (a) Reflection in the x-axis can be written as y = −f(x).
(b) Reflection in the y-axis can be written as y = f(−x).
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 181
remember
remember
For all the graphs of the form f(x) = Aex + b + B, where A ∈ R+, b, B ∈ R, the
maximal domain is R, the range is (B, ∞), the horizontal asymptote is y = B. When
A ∈ R− the range changes to (−∞, B).
1. A is the dilation factor parallel to the y-axis. As A increases, the graph becomes
steeper.
2. B is the vertical translation. When B > 0 the graph is translated up B units.
When B < 0 the graph is translated down B units.
3. b is the horizontal translation. When b > 0 the translation is to the left. When
b < 0 the translation is to the right.
4. When A < 0 the graph is reflected in the x-axis.
5. When f(x) = e − x the graph is reflected in the y-axis.
1
6. When f(x) = ekx the graph is dilated by factor --- parallel to the x-axis.
k
7. Consider transformations in the following order: reflection, dilation,
translation.

Graphs of exponential
4C functions with base e
WORKED
Example 1 State the transformations of f(x) = e x needed to form each of the following functions.
x
7 ---
a f(x) = e3x--x- b f(x) = e2x f(x) = 4e
2
c
d f(x) = 2e e f(x) = 1 + e x − 2 f(x) = 2 + e x + 5
3
f
g f(x) = 3 − e2x h f(x) = 1 − e 3x i f(x) = 3e2 + x − 1
j f(x) = 2e1 + x − 3

WORKED 2 For each of the following examples sketch the graph of f(x) = e x. On the same set
Example
8
of axes, sketch the graph of the given functions, marking the asymptote and
y-intercept, and stating the kind of transformation, the domain and the range. Give
exact answers.
a f(x) = e x − 1 b f(x) = e x − 3 c f(x) = 2e x
d f(x) = 3e x
e f(x) = 1 + e x
f f(x) = e x − 2
g f(x) = e2 − x h f(x) = e1 − x i f(x) = 3 − e x
j f(x) = 1 − e x

WORKED 3 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions, marking the asymptote and
Example
9
intercept, and stating the transformations, domain and range. For the intercepts give
exact answers or correct to 1 decimal place where appropriate.
a f(x) = e3x b f(x) = e2x c f(x) = 4e x
d f(x) = 2e x e f(x) = 1--- e4x f f(x) = 1--- e2x
2 4
g f(x) = 2e 3x
h f(x) = 3e 4x
182 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

WORKED 4 Sketch the graph of each of the following, marking the asymptote and intercepts, and
Example
stating the transformations, domain and range. Mark the y-intercepts as exact values.
10
a f(x) = e x + 3 b f(x) = e x − 3 c f(x) = e x + 1
x+1
d f(x) = e + 2
x
e f(x) = e +2 f f(x) = e x + 2 + 1
x−1 x−2
g f(x) = e +3 h f(x) = e +5 i f(x) = e x + 2 − 1
j f(x) = 2e x + 1 − 2

WORKED 5 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions, marking the asymptote and
Example
11
intercepts, and stating the transformations, domain and range. For intercepts, give
exact answers or correct to 1 decimal place where appropriate.
a f(x) = e−x b f(x) = −e x c f(x) = 1 − e x
d f(x) = 2 + e−x e f(x) = 1 + e−x f f(x) = 1 + e x
−x −x
g f(x) = 3 − e h f(x) = 5 − e i f(x) = −2e−x
j f(x) = −3e−x

6 Sketch f: R → R where f(x) = e2x − 3 − 1, marking all the key features and stating the
domain and range. Write answers correct to 2 decimal places where appropriate.

7 Sketch f: [0, ∞) → R where f(x) = e x − 2 − 1, marking all the key features and stating
the domain and range, giving answers correct to 2 decimal places where appropriate.

8 If f(x) = e x, sketch the following functions.

a y = f(x) + 1 b y = f(x) − 2 c y = 2f(x)
d y= 1
--- f(x) e y = 1 − f(x) f y = 2 − f(x)
2
g y = f(x + 1) h y = f(x − 2) i y = f(−x)
j y = 1 + f(−x)

9 multiple choice
The graph with equation y = e2x + 3 is translated so that the new graph has a horizontal
asymptote of y = −1. The new graph has undergone a translation of:
A 1 unit down B 2 units down C 3 units down
D 4 units down E 5 units down.

10 multiple choice
An increasing exponential function has a horizontal asymptote of y = 2 and a
y-intercept of 4. A possible equation for this exponential is:
A y = e2x + 4 B y = e4x + 2 C y = e2x − 4
D y = 2e + 4
x
E y = 2e + 2
x

11 The graph shown is modelled by the equation y

y = 2e x − b + B.
4
a Find the values of B and b.
3 (3, 3)
b If the graph was translated down 1 unit, translated 2
3 units to the left and dilated by factor 1--- parallel y=1
2
to the y-axis, write the equation of the new graph. 0 1 2 3 x
–2 –1 4
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 183

History ofmathematics
JOHN NAPIER (1550–1617)
This system was used before there were personal
calculators and was still taught in Australian
schools in the 1970s. He took almost 20 years to
determine the values that he used. The base
number that he used was not very convenient and
a system of logarithms based upon 10 was
developed soon after by Henry Briggs, another
mathematician of the day. He made a set of his
tables carved onto ivory that looked like bones,
so they were called ‘Napier’s Bones’.
Prior to the advent of electronic calculators,
many people used a special ruler, made of
sliding sections, called a ‘slide rule’ based upon
Napier’s tables. This was used for complex
calculations. A person who could use a slide
rule well could do multiplication, division and
finding square roots as fast as a calculator.
Napier was involved in politics and
supported John Cant who was the leader of the
Protestant Church in Scotland. He was
concerned about issues regarding the leadership
of Britain as at the time there were claimants
from both England and Scotland.
During his life . . . Like many mathematicians and scientists he
Drake defeats the Spanish Armada. used his knowledge for inventing weapons of
Galileo develops the telescope. war. He invented a chariot that was similar in
Shakespeare writes his plays. idea to the modern tank. He also developed
John Rolfe marries Pocahontas. methods of using mirrors for signalling.

apier was a Scottish mathematician who Questions

N invented logarithms and worked out
exponential expressions for trigonometric
1. How did Napier’s system handle
multiplication and division?
2. Onto what did Napier have his tables carved?
functions. He was married in 1573 and after his 3. How long did Napier spend developing
first wife died in 1579 he married again a few his system of logarithms?
years later. 4. What are the advantages of using Briggs’
Napier studied mathematics for fun. He was version of the logarithms?
first taught by his parents, finished school in 5. What are slide rules?
France and at age 13 went to the University of 6. Who did Napier support for the
St Andrews in Scotland. leadership of Britain?
Napier invented a system that is now called Research
‘Napierian Logarithms’. It was used for difficult Were most calculations for the moon landing
calculations turning multiplication and division done on an abacus, a slide rule, a calculator or
problems into addition and subtraction problems. a Pentium computer?
184 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

Logarithmic graphs to base e

Remember that scientific calculators and graphics calculators have an LN function
which can be used to find the log to base e in the same way as the LOG key is used to
find the log of a number to base 10. Logarithms to base e are expressed as either logex
or ln x.
Graphs of logarithmic functions with base e are drawn in exactly the same way as
with any other base. The function f(x) can be dilated, translated and reflected in the
same way.
The graphs of f(x) = log2x, f(x) = log10x y f(x) = log2 x
2
and f(x) = logex are shown at right. The graph of (1, 0) f(x) = loge x
f(x) = logex is in blue. 1
f(x) = log10 x
f(x) = log2x and f(x) = loge x are steeper than
x
f(x) = log10x. –1 0 1 2 3 4 5
–1

Common features
1. The graphs all cross the x-axis at (1, 0) because loga 1 = 0.
2. The vertical asymptote is the y-axis (x = 0) because loga0 is undefined.
3. The domain is R+.
4. The range is R.
5. They are all increasing functions.

WORKED Example 12
State the transformations of f(x) needed to form the graph of f(x) = 2 loge (x − 3) + 1.

THINK WRITE

1 State the rule. f(x) = 2 loge (x − 3) + 1.

2 State the dilation. The coefficient of Dilation is 2 units parallel to the y-axis.
loge x gives the dilation parallel to the
y-axis.

3 State the translations.

(a) Horizontal translation is given Horizontal translation is 3 units to the right.
by the constant added to the
x term.
(b) Vertical translation is given by the Vertical translation is 1 unit up.
constant added to the log term.

Dilations do not change the vertical asymptote, the domain or the range of a loga-
rithmic graph. The x-intercept does change, however.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 185
WORKED Example 13
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 3 loge 2x, marking all key features and stating the domain and
range.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Write the rule. f(x) = 3 loge 2x
2 State the basic shape of the curve. A log graph with basic shape f(x) = loge x.
3 State the vertical asymptote, which Vertical asymptote is the y-axis.
occurs at loge0.
4 Find the x-intercept by letting y equal 0. If y = 0, 3 loge 2x = 0
Solve for x. Divide both sides by 3. loge 2x = 0
Use loge x = a ⇔ ea = x. e0 = 2x
Use e0 = 1. 2x = 1
Divide both sides by 2. x = 1---
2
The x-intercept is 1--- .
2

5 Sketch the graph of f(x) = 3 loge 2x. y

6
4
f(x) = 3 loge 2x
2
( 1–2 , 0)
x
–1 0 1 2 3
–2
6 State the domain and the range. The domain is R+, and the range is R.

Translations do not change the shape of the basic graph, only the position. The
asymptotes, intercepts and domain may change but the range stays the same.

WORKED Example 14
Sketch the graph of f(x) = loge (x + 1) − 2, marking the vertical asymptote and the
intercepts.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 State the rule. f(x) = loge (x + 1) − 2
2 State the basic shape. Log graph with shape f(x) = loge x.
3 Find the vertical asymptote by making x + 1 = 0 for asymptote
(x + 1) = 0. so x = −1 is the vertical asymptote.
4 Find the y-intercept by making x equal If x = 0, y = loge (0 + 1) − 2
to 0. Remember that loge 1 = 0. = loge (1) − 2
= −2
y-intercept = −2.
Continued over page
186 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

THINK WRITE/DRAW
5 Find the x-intercept by making y equal to If y = 0, loge(x + 1) − 2 = 0
0. Use loge x = a ⇔ e a = x. loge(x + 1) = 2
e2 = x + 1
x = e2 − 1
x ≈ 6.39
x-intercept ≈ 6.39 (to 2 decimal places)
6 Sketch the graph. y
x = –1
(e2–1, 0)
–2 0 2 4 6 x
–2 (0, –2)
f(x) = loge(x + 1) − 2
–4

A reflection of f (x) = logex in the x-axis does not change the graph’s asymptote,
x-intercept, domain or range. If there is a y-intercept, the sign changes.
A reflection in the y-axis does not change the vertical asymptote or the range, but the
x-intercept and the domain change.

WORKED Example 15
Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2 − 3 ln (1 − x), marking the asymptote and intercepts, and
stating the domain and range.
THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 State the rule. f(x) = 2 − 3 ln (1 − x)
2 Find the vertical asymptote by Vertical asymptote is x = 1.
translating the line x = 0 one unit to the
right or by making 1 − x = 0.
3 Find the y-intercept by making If x = 0, y = 2 − 3 ln 1
x equal to 0 and solving the equation. If x = 0, y = 2
4 Find the x-intercept by making If y = 0, 2 − 3 ln (1 − x) = 0
y equal to 0. 3 ln (1 − x) = 2
ln (1 − x) = --2-
3
2
---
e =1−x
3

2
---
x=1− e
3

x ≈ −0.95 (to 2 decimal places)

5 Sketch the graph, remembering that y
there is a reflection in both the x- and 4
the y-axes. 2–
(0, 2)
(1 – e 3 , 0) f(x) = 2 − 3 ln (1 − x)
0 1 x
–2 –1
–2
x=1
6 State the domain and the range. The domain is (−∞, 1) and the range is R.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 187
To sketch a graph by using transformations it is necessary to reflect, dilate and then
translate.

remember
remember
1. The function f(x) = loge x is an increasing logarithmic function:
y
y = logex

0 (1, 0) x

(a) The vertical asymptote is the y-axis so there are no y-intercepts.

(b) The graph crosses the x-axis at (1, 0) because loga1 = 0.
(c) The domain is R+; that is, there are no negative values of x.
(d) The range is R.
(e) After transformations, the function becomes f(x) = A loga k(x + b) + B.

2. Dilation
(a) Dilations parallel to the y-axis are given by the coefficient of loge x. Then,
y = f(x) becomes y = Af(x).
(b) Dilations parallel to the x-axis are given by the reciprocal of the coefficient
of x. Then, y = f(x) becomes y = f(kx).
(c) Dilations do not change the vertical asymptote, the domain or the range of
a logarithmic graph. Dilations parallel to the x-axis change the x-intercept.

3. Translation
(a) Vertical translation is given by the term added to loge x. Then, y = f(x)
becomes y = f(x) + B. If B > 0 the graph is moved up, and if B < 0 the graph
is moved down.
(b) Horizontal translation is given by the term that is added to x. y = f(x)
becomes y = f(x + b). If b > 0 the graph is translated to the left, and if b < 0
the graph is translated to the right.
(c) Translations do not change the shape of the basic graph, only the position.
The asymptotes, intercepts and domain may change but the range stays the
same.

4. Reflection
(a) Reflection in the x-axis occurs if the coefficient A is negative. Then, y = f(x)
becomes y = −f(x).
(b) Reflection in the y-axis occurs if the coefficient of x is negative. Then,
y = f(x) becomes y = f(−x).
(c) When following a sequence of transformations to sketch a graph, it is
necessary to reflect, dilate and then translate.
188 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

Logarithmic graphs to
4D base e
WORKED 1 State the transformations of f(x) needed to form the graph of each of the following.
Example
12
a f(x) = 5 loge 2x b f(x) = 2 loge 4x
c f(x) = loge (x + 1) − 3 d f(x) = loge (x − 2) + 1
e f(x) = −loge (−x) f f(x) = −loge 2x
g f(x) = 1 − loge (x − 2) h f(x) = 2 − loge (x + 3)
i f(x) = 3 loge (x + 4) − 1 j f(x) = 1 − loge (x − 4)
k f(x) = 2 loge (1 − x) + 3 l f(x) = 3 loge (2 − x) − 1

WORKED 2 Sketch the graph of the following functions, marking all key features and stating the
Example
13
domain and range. Give exact values.
a f(x) = loge 2x b f(x) = loge 3x
c f(x) = 3 loge x d f(x) = 2 loge x
 x
e f(x) = 2 loge --- f f(x) = 3 loge 2x
 3

WORKED 3 Sketch the graph of the following functions, marking the vertical asymptote
Example
14
and the intercepts. Give exact answers for a–f, otherwise round to 1 decimal
place.
a f(x) = 1 + loge x b f(x) = 2 + loge x
c f(x) = loge (x − 1) d f(x) = loge (x − 2)
e f(x) = loge (x + 2) f f(x) = loge (x + 3)
g f(x) = loge (x − 3) + 2 h f(x) = loge (x − 1) + 1
i f(x) = loge (x + 3) − 2 j f(x) = loge (x + 1) − 2

WORKED 4 Sketch the graph of the following functions, marking the asymptote and intercepts,
Example
15
and stating the domain and range. Give intercepts correct to 2 decimal places where
appropriate.
a f(x) = loge (−x) b f(x) = −loge x
c f(x) = −2 loge x d f(x) = loge (−2x)
e f(x) = −3 loge (−2x) f f(x) = −2 loge (−4x)
g f(x) = loge (1 − x) h f(x) = loge (2 − x)
i f(x) = −loge (2 − x) j f(x) = −loge (3 − x)

5 The graph of f(x) = loge x undergoes the following transformations. Find the equation
of the image of f(x) in each case.
a Translation of 1 unit to the right.
b Translation of 2 units down.
c Dilation of 5 units parallel to the y-axis.
d Dilation of 3 units parallel to the x-axis.
e Reflection in the x-axis.
f Reflection in the y-axis.
g Reflection in the x-axis and translation of 3 units to the left.
h Dilation of 4 units parallel to the x-axis and translation 1 unit up.
i Reflection in the x-axis, dilation of 2 units parallel to the y-axis and translation of
3 units down.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 189
6 Sketch the graphs of the equations found in question 5, showing the asymptote and
intercepts, and stating the domain and the range. Give intercepts correct to 2 decimal
places where appropriate.

7 State the transformations of f(x) needed to form the graph of f(x) = 2 loge (3x + 6) − 1
and sketch the graph, showing the asymptote and intercepts. Give intercepts correct to
2 decimal places.

8 Sketch the graph of f: (−∞, 1] → R where f(x) = −3 loge (2 − x), showing key features.

9 multiple choice
The graph of y = loge x is transformed into the graph of y = 5 loge (2x) by:
A A dilation of factor 5 in the y direction and a dilation of factor 2 in the x direction
B A dilation of factor 2 in the y direction and a dilation of factor 5 in the x direction
1
C A dilation of factor --- in the y direction and a dilation of factor 2 in the x direction
5
1
D A dilation of factor 5 in the y direction and a dilation of factor --- in the x direction
2
1
E A dilation of factor --- in the y direction and a dilation of factor 5 in the x direction.
2

10 multiple choice
For the function f(x) = 3 loge (x − 2), the vertical asymptote and the coordinates of the
x-intercept are respectively:
A x = 3, (2, 0)
B x = 2, (3, 0)
C y = 3, (2, 0)
D y = 2, (3, 0)
E x = 3, (3, 0)

11 multiple choice
a
The function f: [0.5, 6] → R where f(x) = ------------------- is undefined when x is equal to:
log e ( x )
A 0
B 0.5
C 1
D 6
E a

12 a When the function f(x) = a + b loge x is reflected in the x-axis and translated 2
units to the right, find g(x), the equation of the image of f(x).
b State the domain and range of g(x) and write it using correct function notation.
c If g(x) is reflected in the y-axis and dilated by factor 4 parallel to the y-axis, write
in correct function notation the equation of h(x), the image of g(x).
190 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

Finding equations for graphs of

exponential and logarithmic functions
As with other functions it is sometimes necessary to be able to find the equation of an
exponential or logarithmic function from a graph.
If we know points on the curve, we can substitute the values into the most suitable
general equation:
1. For an exponential graph the general equation is y = Ae(x + b) + B.
2. For a logarithmic graph the general equation is y = A loge (x + b) + B.
Both of these examples are written with base e but they could be written with any
base, for example y = A × 2(x + b) + B or y = A log10 (x + b) + B.
If there are two unknowns, two pieces of information are necessary. The coordinates
of two points, substituted into a general equation, will give two equations and enable
two unknowns to be found.

WORKED Example 16
The equation of the graph shown is of the form f(x) = Aex + B. y
Find the values of A and B correct to 2 decimal places and hence 4
find the equation of the function.
(0, 2)
(–2.44, 0)
0 x
–4 –3 –2 –1 1

THINK WRITE
1 Use the point on the y-axis and For (0, 2):
substitute values into the given 2 = Ae0 + B
equation. 2=A+B [1]
2 Substitute the coordinates of another For (−2.44, 0):
point into the given equation. 0 = Ae−2.44 + B [2]
3 Solve simultaneous equations by [2] − [1]: −2 = Ae−2.44 − A
subtracting [1] from [2]. −2 = A(e−2.44 − 1)
–2
4 Find A, rounding the answer correctly. A = --------------------
– 2.44
-
e –1
≈ 2.19 (to 2 decimal places)
–2
5 Find B by substituting the exact value Substitute in [1]: 2 = --------------------
– 2.44
- +B
of A in equation [1] or [2] to find B. e –1
–2
B = 2 − --------------------
– 2.44
-
e –1
≈ −0.19
6 Rewrite the original equation, f(x) = 2.19ex − 0.19
substituting values for A and B.

The horizontal asymptote of an exponential equation gives the vertical translation

and hence the value of B in the general equation.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 191
WORKED Example 17 y
The equation of the graph shown is of the form f(x) = aex + b. 10
Find the values of a and b and hence find the equation of the (0, 5)
function. y=2
0 1 x
THINK WRITE –3 –2 –1 2

1 Use the horizontal asymptote to find the The graph of e x has been translated up
value of b. 2 units, so b = 2.
2 Substitute the value of b in the equation. f(x) = ae x + 2
3 Use the y-intercept to find a by substituting For (0, 5):
in the given equation. 5 = ae0 + 2
ae0 = 3
a=3
4 Write the equation, using the values of a and b. f(x) = 3e x + 2

If there are three unknowns, three pieces of information are necessary to solve the
equation.
The vertical asymptote of a logarithmic graph gives the horizontal translation and
hence the value of b in the equation y = Aloge (x + b) + B. A translation to the left gives
a positive value of b and a translation to the right gives a negative value of b.

WORKED Example 18 y
The equation of the graph shown is of the form x = –1
y = A loge (x + b) + B. Find the values of A, b and B and 5 (0, 5)
hence find the equation.
(2, 0)
THINK WRITE 0 x
1 2 3 4

1 Use the vertical asymptote to find the value The graph of f(x) = loge x is translated
of b. 1 unit to the left, so b = 1.
2 Substitute the value of b into the equation. f(x) = A loge (x + 1) + B.
3 Use the y-intercept to find an equation. For (0, 5):
A loge (0 + 1) + B = 5
4 Simplify using loge 1 = 0. A loge 1 + B = 5
loge 1 = 0, B = 5
5 Substitute the value of B in the equation. f(x) = A loge (x + 1) + 5
6 Use the x-intercept to find A. For (2, 0):
A loge (2 + 1) + 5 = 0
A loge 3 + 5 = 0
A loge 3 = −5
5
A = − --------------
log e 3
A ≈ −4.55
(to 2 decimal places)
7 Substitute values back into the original f(x) = −4.55 loge (x + 1) + 5
equation.
192 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

remember
remember
1. The general equation for an exponential graph is f(x) = Aek(x + b) + B, where A
is the dilation factor parallel to the y-axis, 1--- is the dilation factor parallel to the
k
x-axis, b is the horizontal translation and B is the vertical translation.
2. The general equation for a logarithmic graph is f(x) = A loge k(x + b) + B, where
A is the dilation factor parallel to the y-axis, 1--- is the dilation factor parallel to
k
the x-axis, b is the horizontal translation and B is the vertical translation.
3. The coordinates of points on the curve can be substituted into the general
equation to find the values of unknowns in the equation.
4. One piece of information is required for each unknown in the general equation.
5. The horizontal asymptote of an exponential graph gives the vertical translation
and hence the value of B. If the asymptote is above the x-axis B is positive and
if it is below the x-axis the value of B is negative.
6. The vertical asymptote of a logarithmic graph gives the horizontal translation
and hence the value of b. If the asymptote is to the left of the y-axis b is positive
and if it is to the right of the y-axis b is negative.

Finding equations for graphs of

4E exponential and logarithmic
functions
WORKED 1 The equation of the graph shown is of the form f(x) = Ae x + B. y
Example
16
Find the values of A and B correct to 2 decimal places and
hence find the equation of the function. State the equation 4 (1, 4)
of the horizontal asymptote. (0, 3)
2

0 1 x
2 3 4

2 Find the values of b and B if the general equation of the y

graph shown is y = e x + b + B. Give your answers correct to 6 (1, 6)
2 decimal places.
4

2 (0, 2)

x
–1 –0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5

3 Find the values of A and k if the general equation of the y

graph shown is y = Ae kx. Give your answers correct to
0 x
2 decimal places. –2 –1 1 2
(–1, –4)
–5

–10
(–2, –10)
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 193
4 Find the values of A and B if the general equation of the y
graph shown is y = A × 2x + B. Give exact answers. 4
(1, 3)
2

x
–3 –2 –1 0 1 2
(–3, –1) y = –19
––
–2 15

WORKED 5 The equation of the graph shown is of the form y

Example
17
f(x) = a × 2x + b. Find the values of a and b and hence
4
find the equation of the function. Give exact answers.

2
(0, 11–2 )
6 multiple choice 1 y=1
If the horizontal asymptote is y = 1 and the y-intercept –3 –2 –1 0 1 2
x
is −2, the equation for the exponential function of the form
y = −e x + b + B is:
A y = −e x + 1 − 2 B y = −e x + 2 + 1
x+1
C y = −e −2 D y = −e x − 1 − 2
x + 1.1
E y = −e +1 y
7 Find the values of b and B if the general equation of the 6
graph shown is y = e x + b + B. Give exact answers.
4 (2, 4)
2 y=3

0 1 x
2 3 4

8 Find the values of A and B if the general equation of the y

graph shown is y = Ae x + B . Give exact answers.
4
(0, 3)
2

–3 –2 –1 0 1 2 x
y = –1
–2
WORKED 9 The equation of the graph shown is of the form y
Example
18
y = A loge (x + b) + B. Find the values of A, b and B and x = –2 6
(2, 6)
hence find the equation. Give answers correct to
1 decimal place. 4

2
10 Find the values of A and k, given that the graph of
y = A log10 kx passes through the points (1, 1) and (3, 2). 0 1 x
–3 –2 –1 2
Give your answers correct to 4 decimal places where
appropriate.
11 If the horizontal translation is 2 units to the left, the vertical translation is 3, the graph
passes through the point (2, 6), and the equation is of the form y = A log2 (x + b) + B,
find the values of A, b and B.
194 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

Addition of ordinates
Sometimes we need to sketch the graph of a function that can be thought of as the sum
of two functions. For example, the function y = x2 + ex can be thought of as the sum of
the functions y = x2 and y = ex.
Such a graph can be drawn by sketching the two individual functions on the same set
of axes, then adding the y-values (ordinates) for each x-value and plotting the resulting
points.
This method is convenient to use when we know the basic shape of the individual
functions but cannot recognise the basic shape of the given function. We can
sketch both graphs on the same set of axes, then plot the resulting points by adding the
y-values for each x-value, and hence sketch the new curve.
For example, the graph of y = x2 + ex can be sketched using the addition of ordinates
technique, since the basic shape of the function is not known, but the two individual
functions are a basic positive parabola and a basic exponential curve. The graph of
y = ex + 1 can also be thought of as the sum of two functions, but since we can
recognise its shape as the basic exponential curve translated 1 unit up, there is no need
to use the addition of ordinates method.
Note that the ‘sum function’ can only be defined for the domain over which both
of the individual functions are defined. So the domain of the ‘sum’ function is
obtained by finding the intersection of the domains of the individual functions. That
is, if h(x) = f(x) + g(x), domain h(x) = domain f(x) ∩ domain g(x).
Sometimes a function is defined as the difference between two individual functions.
We can still use the method of addition of ordinates to graph such a function, because
the second function can be expressed as the addition of a negative function. That is,
h(x) = f(x) − g(x) can be written as h(x) = f(x) + (−g(x)).
So if, for example, we need to graph y = x2 − ex, we could think of it as
y = x2 + (−ex). We then would sketch the basic parabola and the basic negative
exponential curves on the same set of axes and use the addition of ordinates tech-
nique to obtain the graph of the original function.

WORKED Example 19
State the domain of f(x) = 3x2 + logex.

THINK WRITE
1 Write f(x) as the sum of the two Let f(x) = g(x) + p(x), where g(x) = 3x2
individual functions g(x) and p(x). and p(x) = logex.

2 State the domain of g(x). Domain g(x) = R

3 State the domain of p(x). Domain p(x) = R+
4 State the domain of f(x) by Domain f(x) = domain g(x) ∩ domain p(x)
finding the intersection of the = R ∩ R+
domains of individual functions. = R+
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 195
When sketching the graph by hand, it is important to select wisely the values of x for
which the ordinates should be added. As a guide, good points to select are:
1. the end points of the graph
2. the points of intersection of the graphs
3. the x-intercepts of either of the graphs.

WORKED Example 20
Using the same scale and axes, sketch the graphs of y1 = e x and y2 = e−x over the domain
[−2, 2). Hence, sketch the graph of y = e x + e−x, rounding coordinates to 1 decimal place.
THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Sketch y1 = e by finding the horizontal
x
The horizontal asymptote is the x-axis.
asymptote, the y-intercept, and the end x = 0, y = e0, y = 1
points. x = 2, y = e2, y = 7.4
x = −2, y = e−2, y = 0.14
The y-intercept is 1.
y
8 (2, 7.4)
6
y1 = e x
4
2
(–2, 0.14) (0, 1)
0 x
–2 –1 1 2
2 On the same axes, sketch y2 = e−x by The horizontal asymptote is the x-axis.
reflecting y1 in the y-axis and finding The y-intercept is 1.
the horizontal asymptote, the y1 = ex
y2 = e–x y
y-intercept, and the end points. 8
(–2, 7.4) (2, 7.4)
6
4
2
(–2, 0.14) (0, 1) (2, 0.14)
0 x
–2 –1 1 2
−2
3 Add ordinates at the end point with the When x = −2, y = e + e2
lowest x-value (y = y1 + y2 = e x + e−x). ≈ 7.5
Point (−2, 7.5)
4 Add ordinates when the graphs When x = 0, y = 1 + 1
intersect. =2
Point (0, 2)
5 Add ordinates at the other end point. When x = 2, y ≈ 7.5
Point (2, 7.5)
6 Plot the points (which were obtained by y2 = e–x y y1 = ex y = ex + e − x
adding ordinates), and join them to (–2, 7.5) 8
(2, 7.5)
sketch the graph. It is necessary to label 6
(0, 2)
only end points and intercepts. 4
2

0 1 x
–2 –1 2
196 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

WORKED Example 21 y
Given the graphs of f(x) and g(x), sketch the graph of f(x)
h(x) = f(x) + g(x).
g(x)

0 x

THINK WRITE/DRAW
1 Add the ordinates at the LHS end ➀ y ➁ y
points of the graph: a large positive
value plus a smaller negative value f(x) f(x)
should give a smaller positive value.
Mark this point on the axes. g(x) g(x)
2 Add the ordinates at the point where
0 x 0 x
g(x) has the x-intercept and mark the
resulting point on the set of axes. Note
that g(x) = 0 at this point; therefore
f(x) + 0 = f(x) (that is, if one of the
functions cuts the x-axis, the sum is
equal to the y-value of the other
function).
3 Add the ordinates at the first point of
➂ y ➃ y
intersection of the 2 functions. Note
that at the point of intersection the f(x) f(x)
value of y is the same for both
functions, so the resulting point is g(x) g(x)
double the y-value. Mark the point on
the set of axes. 0 x 0 x
4 Add the ordinates at the point where
f(x) has the x-intercept and mark the
result on the set of axes.
5 Add the ordinates at the second point of ➄ y ➅ y
intersection of the 2 graphs and mark
the resulting point on the set of axes. f(x) f(x)
6 Add the ordinates at the RHS end
points of the graph: 2 positive values g(x) g(x)
together give an even larger positive
0 x 0 x
value.
7 Join the points with a smooth curve to y h(x)
produce the graph of h(x).
Note that the turning point of h(x) is f(x)
between the y-axis and the point with
the same y-value. The graph begins to g(x)
turn at the left end point because the
graph of g(x) turns there. 0 x
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 197
WORKED Example 22
Sketch the graph of f(x) = x + x , using addition of ordinates.

THINK WRITE/DRAW

1 State the two individual functions. Let f(x) = g(x) + p(x), where g(x) = x and
p(x) = x

2 State the domain of f(x) by finding the Domain g(x) = R

intersection of the domains of Domain p(x) = R+ ∪ {0}
individual functions. Domain f(x) = domain g(x) ∩ domain p(x)
Domain f(x) = R ∩ R+ ∪ {0}
Domain f(x) = R+ ∪ {0}

3 On the set of axes sketch the graph of ➀

g(x) (a straight line, passing through the y
origin and bisecting the first quadrant) g(x)
and p(x) (a basic square root curve).
Note that only the first quadrant is
p(x)
needed, since the domain is R+ ∪ {0}.

0 x

4 The first point of intersection of g(x) ➁ ➂

and p(x) is at the origin, f(x) = 0 + 0 = 0 y
(that is, f(x) will also start at the origin). y
g(x)
Mark this point on the set of axes. g(x)

5 Add the ordinates at the second point of p(x)

intersection of the two graphs and mark p(x)
the resulting point on the set of axes.
0 x
6 Add the ordinates at the RHS end 0 x
points of the graph and mark the
resulting point on the set of axes.

7 Sketch the graph of f(x) by joining the f(x)

points. y
Note, as x increases, f(x) approaches g(x)
g(x) because p(x) is increasing slowly.
p(x)

0 x
198 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

remember
remember
1. A graph of the sum of 2 functions can be drawn by sketching the 2 functions on
the same set of axes and adding the y-values for each value of x.
2. The domain of the ‘sum’ function is obtained by finding the intersection of the
domains of individual functions: if h(x) = f(x) + g(x),
domain h(x) = domain f(x) ∩ g(x).
3. Suitable points at which to add ordinates are:
(a) Left end points and right end points
(b) the points of intersection of the 2 graphs
(c) the x-intercepts of either of the 2 functions.
4. Exact values of y can be obtained by substituting the required x-values into the
given function.
5. The ‘difference’ function can be rewritten as the ‘sum’ function as follows:
h(x) = f(x) − g(x)
= f(x) + [−g(x)],
so that addition of ordinates can be used.

4F Addition of ordinates

WORKED 1 State the domain of each of the following functions.

Example
1
19 a y = x + --- b y=3 x −x c y = x2 + 1
--- x −1
x 2
1
d y= x+2 −x e y = x2 − 3x3 f y = 2x3 − -----------
x–3
2 2
g y = ------------------- − x2 h y = 3x − 2 1 – x i y = 3(2 − x)2 + ------
2 3x
( x + 1)
j y=2 3–x −3 x+1

2 multiple choice
If f(x) = g(x) + p(x), and if f(x) is defined over the domain [−2, 7] and g(x) is defined
for x ≤ 7, the domain of p(x) could not be:
A [−2, 7] B [−2, ∞) C [−2, 7)
D [−2, 7.5) E [−2, 15]
WORKED 3 Using the same scale and axes, sketch the graphs of y1 and y2 over the given domain.
Example
20
Hence, sketch the graph of y = y1 + y2, rounding coordinates to 1 decimal place as this
is accurate enough for most sketch graphs. Check all graphs on the graphics
calculator.
a y1 = 2e x, y2 = 2e−x, [−1, 1] b y1 = 3e−x, y2 = 3e x, [−1, 1]
−x
c y1 = e , y2 = x, (−2, 2] d y1 = e x, y2 = x, (−2, 2]
e y1 = e , y2 = x , (−2, 2)
x 2
f y1 = e−x, y2 = x 2, (−2, 3)
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 199
4 Using the same scale and axes, sketch the graphs of f(x) and g(x). Hence, sketch the
graph of h(x) = f(x) + g(x), rounding coordinates to 1 decimal place as this is accurate
enough for most sketch graphs. State the domain and range of h(x). Check all graphs
on the graphics calculator.
a f(x) = 2 loge x, g(x) = x b f(x) = 3 loge x, g(x) = x
c f(x) = loge x, g(x) = 2x d f(x) = loge x, g(x) = 1--- x
2
e f(x) = −loge x, g(x) = x f f(x) = − 2 loge x, g(x) = x

5 Using the addition of ordinates, sketch the graph of f: [−2, 2] → R where

f(x) = 1--- e x + 1--- e−x. State the domain and the range, giving answers to 1 decimal place
2 2
where rounding is necessary.

6 multiple choice
If the domain of y1 is (−2, 2] and the domain of y2 is (0, ∞), the domain of y1 + y2 is:
A (−2, ∞) B [2, ∞) C (0, ∞) D (−2, 0) E (0, 2]
WORKED 7 Given the graphs of f(x) and g(x), sketch the graph of h(x) = f(x) + g(x).
Example
21 a y b y
f (x)

0 x
g(x)
f(x)
0 x g(x)

c y d y
g(x)
f(x)

x
0
f(x) 0 x

g(x)
e y f y
f(x)

0 x
g(x)
f(x)

0 x
g(x)

8 On the same set of axes sketch the graphs of f(x) = x2 and g(x) = 5x + 6. Use the
addition-of-ordinates method to sketch the graph of y = x2 + 5x + 6.
9 On the same set of axes sketch the graphs of f(x) = x3 and g(x) = x2 − 1 and hence
sketch the graph of y = x3 + x2 − 1, using the addition-of-ordinates technique.
WORKED 10 Sketch the graph of each of the following functions, using addition of ordinates.
Example
22
Check your answers with the graphics calculator.
a y= x + 2–x b y = 2x − x
c y= x–3 −x 2
d y= x+5 + 5–x
200 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

11 multiple choice y
The graph at right is likely to represent the sum of which
2 functions?
0 x

A y B y

0 x
0 x

C y D y E y

0 x

0 x 0 x

12 Sketch the graph of y = loge x + x by sketching the 2 individual functions on the

same set of axes and then adding the ordinates. State the domain of the function.
Verify your answer with the graphics calculator.
13 If f(x) = 3x − 3 and g(x) = loge x, sketch the graph of h ( x ) = f ( x ) + g ( x ) , using
addition of ordinates. Check your answer using a graphics calculator.

Exponential and logarithmic modelling

using graphs
As seen in chapter 3, exponential and logarithmic functions can be used to model real
situations.
Graphs of these functions can be used to illustrate the model and make predictions
for future changes.
In most cases when modelling real life situations, the domain is restricted to [0, ∞)
because t = 0 when the model begins.

WORKED Example 23
The population of wombats in Snubnose Gully is increasing according to the equation:
W = 100e0.03t
where W is the number of wombats t years after 1 January 1998.
a Find the initial size of the population.
b Find the population 2 years and 10 years after the number of wombats was first
recorded. Give answers to the nearest whole wombat.
c Plot a graph of W against t.
d Use the graph to find the size of the population after 15 years.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 201
THINK WRITE/DRAW

a 1 State the rule. a W = 100e0.03t

2 Find W when t = 0. When t = 0, W = 100
3 Write the answer in a sentence. The initial size of the population is 100
wombats.
b 1 Find W when t = 2. b When t = 2, W = 100e0.03 × 2
When t = 2, W = 100 × 1.0618
When t = 2, W ≈ 106 (nearest whole number)
2 Write the answer in a sentence. After 2 years there are 106 wombats.

3 Find W when t = 10. When t = 10, W = 100e0.03 × 10

= 100 × 1.3499
≈ 135 (nearest whole number)
4 Write the answer in a sentence. After 10 years there are 135 wombats.
c Draw a set of axes, plot the points c W
(0, 100), (2, 106), (10, 135) and draw the
150 (10, 135)
graph through the points.
100 (2, 106)

50

0 t
2 4 6 8 10

d 1 Extend the graph until t = 15; draw a d W

dotted vertical line from t = 15 to the 150 (10, 135)
graph and then a horizontal line to
the vertical axis. 100
(2, 106)
50

0 2 4 6 8 10 15 t

2 Write the answer in a sentence. After 15 years there are about 157 wombats.

remember
remember
1. In general the number of unknowns indicates the number of points required to
substitute into the equation.
2. The equation for exponential growth is A = A0ekt where A0 represents the initial
value, t represents the time taken and k represents the rate constant. This is a
rapidly increasing function.
3. The equation for exponential decay is A = A0e−kt where A0 represents the initial
value, t represents the time taken and k represents the rate constant. This is a
rapidly decreasing function.
202 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

Modelling populations
About 187 000 sheep inhabited Tasmania in 1819. As European settlers began to
develop the land for sheep farming, this population increased until it stabilised about
70 years later. The sheep population P(t) can be modelled by the following function,
where t is the number of years since 1819:
1670000
P ( t ) = ---------------------------------------
– 0.131t
1 + 7.915e
1 Evaluate the function when t = 0. Does your answer make sense?
2 Graph the sheep population function using a graphics calculator or graphing software.
3 Estimate the date when the sheep population reached 1 500 000.
4 Investigate the value P(t) for large values of t. According to the model, at what
value did the sheep population eventually stabilise?
Extension:
In 1976, the population of Earth was estimated to be 4 billion people. Subsequent
data provided a possible model for the population P(t) (in billions) as a function of
t, where t is the number of years since 1976:
280
P ( t ) = -----------------------------------------
– 0.0208t
4 + 65.99e
Investigate the value of P(t) for large values of t. According to the model, at what
value will the population of Earth eventually stabilise? Discuss the limitations of
this model. (What factors may affect the accuracy of this model?)

Exponential and logarithmic

4G modelling using graphs
WORKED 1 The population of a species of koala found on Eucalyptus Island is increasing
Example
23
according to the equation K = 50e0.04t,
where K is the number of koalas t years
after 1 January 1998.
a Find the initial size of the population.
b Find the population 2 years and 10 years
after the number of koalas was first
recorded. Give answers to the nearest
whole number.
c Plot a graph of K against t.
d Use the graph to find the size of the popu-
lation after 15 years.
2 The population of a species of wallaby found on a reserve is increasing according to
the equation W = 150 × 1.08t, where W is the number of wallabies t years after records
were first kept.
a Find the initial size of the population.
b Find the population 1 year and 5 years after records were first kept. Give answers
to the nearest whole number.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 203
c Plot a graph of W against t.
d Use the graph to find the size of the population after 15 years.
e Use the graph to find how long it would take for the population to double.

3 A student invests $500 with a company that pays interest of 6% compounded contin-
uously. (Interest paid according to the formula A = A0ert is said to be compounded
continuously and r is called the continuous interest rate.)
a How much money made up the initial investment?
b How much did the student have with the company after 1 year? Give your answer
correct to the nearest 5 cents.
c How much interest did the student have after 5 years? Give your answer correct to
the nearest 5 cents.
d Plot a graph of A against t.
e Use your graph to find how much the student would have in the account after
8 years.

4 The decay of a radioactive element, E, is given by the equation E = E0 e−kt where E is

the number of radioactive nuclei present t days after the experiment begins.
a If 200 radioactive nuclei are present in the element at the beginning of the experi-
ment and there are 33 radioactive nuclei present after 10 days, find the value of k
correct to 2 decimal places. Use this rounded value for all working in the other
parts of this question.
b Find the number of radioactive nuclei, E, present after 1 day and after 5 days.
c Plot a graph of E against t.
d Use the graph to find how long it would take before 50 radioactive nuclei are
left.
e Would there ever be no radioactive nuclei left? Give reasons for your answer.
f The half-life of a radioactive element is the time taken for half of the radioactive
nuclei to decay. Use your graph to find the half-life of this element.

5 A hard-boiled egg is placed in water to cool. The cooling process can be modelled by
the equation T − T1 = (T0 − T1)e−kt where T is the temperature of the egg t minutes
after it was placed in the water and T1 is the temperature of the water. Assume that the
temperature of the egg is 98°C when it is first placed in the 18°C water and it takes
5 minutes for it to cool to 38°C.
a Substitute the values of T0 and T1 into the equation and simplify, making T the
subject.
b Find the value of k to 3 decimal places.
c Substitute it into the equation.
d Find how long it would take to reach a temperature of 25°C. Give your answer to
the nearest minute.
e Draw a graph of T against t, marking in asymptotes.
f Use the graph to find the temperature after 15 minutes.
g Assuming that the water does not become significantly warmer, use your graph to
determine whether the egg will ever reach the temperature of the water.
204 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

6 The population of a species of fish in Lake Underwater is declining due to an

unknown cause. The number of fish t weeks after the first dead fish was found on the
shore and surface of the water can be modelled by the equation P = A loge t + B. One
week after the first dead fish was discovered, the population was 10 000. The
population was 8000 after 5 weeks.
a Find the values of A and B. Give answers correct to
2 decimal places where appropriate.
b Find how many fish there are after 10 weeks.
c Find how long it would take for the population to be 3000.
Give your answer to the nearest week.
d Sketch a graph of P against t, clearly indicating the
asymptote.
e Use the graph to find how many fish there would be after
20 weeks.
7 multiple choice
The relationship between m and n is modelled by the equation
m = log10 (an + b). The graph is shown below.
m

2
(1, 0) (4, 1)
1

0 1 n
2 3 4
–1

The values of a and b are:

A 3 and 2 B 2 and 3 C 3 and −2
D 1 and 2 E 1 and −3
8 It costs a clothing company $20 to produce a jacket. Production costs are proportional
to the number of jackets produced.
a If the company produces n jackets, write an equation for the company’s pro-
duction costs for the jackets, $C.
As the company produces more jackets they find that they have to sell them at a lower
price. The company’s revenue, $R is modelled by the equation
R(n) = 2000(1 − e−0.1n)
b Show that R(0) = 0.
c According to this model, revenues plateau as costs increase. What is the value that
the revenue approaches?
d On the same axes, sketch the graphs of the cost equation and the revenue equation
for 0 ≤ n ≤ 55.
e Use addition of ordinates to sketch the graph of the profit the company can expect
to make from selling the jackets (profit = revenue − cost).
f Write an equation for this profit.
g Use a graphics calculator to find the number of jackets that must be sold in order
to maximise the profits and what that profit would be.
h Use a graphics calculator to find how many jackets the company could make
before they began to make a loss.
i Is this a reasonable model for a company to use? Explain your reasons.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 205

summary
Exponential functions
• For graphs of the form f(x) = a x,
y
where a ∈ R+\{1}:
1. The maximal domain is R. 4
2. The range is R+.
3. The x-axis is the horizontal asymptote. 2
4. The y-intercept is 1. (0, 1)
–2 –1 0 1 2 x
5. They are all increasing functions.
• Reflection:
1. If f(x) = a x is reflected in the x-axis the result is the graph of f(x) = −a x. The
graph is a decreasing function instead of an increasing function. The y-intercept
changes to (0, −1) and the range becomes R−.
2. If f(x) = a x is reflected in the y-axis the result is the graph of f(x) = a−x. All key
features stay the same but the graph is a decreasing function instead of an
increasing function.
• Translation:
For all of the graphs of the form f(x) = ax + b + B, where b, B ∈ R, and a ∈ R+\{1},
the maximal domain is R, the range is (B, ∞), the horizontal asymptote is y = B and
they are all increasing functions. b translates the graph horizontally or parallel to
the x-axis, B translates the graph vertically or parallel to the y-axis.
• Dilation:
If f(x) = Aakx, where A, k ∈ R+, the graph of f(x) = a x is dilated by factor A parallel
1
to the y-axis and by factor --- parallel to the x-axis.
k
• Combinations of transformations:
For all the graphs of the form f(x) = A × ak(x + b) + B, where b, B ∈ R, A, k ∈ R+ and
a ∈ R+\{1}, the maximal domain is R, the range is (B, ∞), the horizontal asymptote
is y = B and they are all increasing functions. b translates the graph horizontally or
parallel to the x-axis, B translates the graph vertically or parallel to the y-axis and A
dilates the graph by factor A parallel to the y-axis. If A, k < 0 the graphs are
reflected in the x- and y-axes respectively.

Logarithmic functions
• For graphs of the form f(x) = loga x, where a ∈ R+\{1}: y
1. The maximal domain is R+; that is, there are no
negative values of x.
2. The range is R.
3. The vertical asymptote is the y-axis so there are no 0 (1, 0) x
y-intercepts.
4. The graph crosses the x-axis at (1, 0) because
loga 1 = 0.
5. They are all increasing functions.
206 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

• Reflection:
1. If f(x) = loga x is reflected in the x-axis the result is the graph of f(x) = −loga x.
All key features remain the same but the graph is a decreasing function instead
of an increasing function.
2. If f(x) = loga x is reflected in the y-axis the result is the graph of f(x) = loga (−x).
The vertical asymptote and the range remain the same but the x-intercept and the
domain change.
(a) The graph crosses the x-axis at (−1, 0).
(b) The domain is (−∞, 0).

• Dilation:
1. The function f(x) = A loga x dilates the graph of f(x) = loga x by a factor of A
parallel to the y-axis or from the x-axis. The vertical asymptote,
x-intercept, domain and range remain the same. As A increases, the graph
becomes steeper.
1
2. The function f(x) = loga kx dilates the graph of f(x) = loga x by a factor ---
k
parallel to the x-axis or from the y-axis. The vertical asymptote, domain and
1
range stay the same, but the x-intercept is --- . As k increases, the graph becomes
k
steeper and the x-intercept becomes smaller.

• Translation:
1. The function f(x) = loga x + B translates the graph of f(x) = loga x vertically, B
units. The vertical axis, domain and range remain the same but the x-intercept
changes. There is no change in the shape of the graph.
2. The function f(x) = loga (x + b) translates the graph of f(x) = loga x horizontally
b units. The shape and the range remain the same but the vertical asymptote, the
x-intercept and the domain change:
(a) The vertical asymptote becomes x = −b.
(b) The graph crosses the x-axis at (1 − b, 0).
(c) The domain is (−b, ∞).

• Combinations of transformations:
The function f(x) = A loga (x + b) + B has dilation factor A parallel to the y-axis and
is translated b units horizontally and B units vertically. If A < 0 there is a reflection
in the x-axis and if −x is used there is a reflection in the y-axis.

Addition of ordinates
• A graph of the sum of two functions can be drawn by sketching the two functions
on the same set of axes and then adding the y-values for each value of x.
• If h(x) = f(x) + g(x), domain h(x) = domain f(x) ∩ domain g(x).
• Suitable points at which to add ordinates are:
1. the end points of the graph
2. the points of intersection of the two graphs
3. the x-intercepts of the two graphs.
• The technique can be used for the difference of the two functions, if it is rewritten
as a sum: h(x) = f(x) − g(x) = f(x) + [−g(x)].
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 207

CHAPTER
review
Multiple choice
1 The horizontal asymptote for the graph of f(x) = 2x − 1 is:
A x=2 B x=1 C y=0 4A
D y = −1 E y = −2

2 The domain and range of the graph of f(x) = 3 × 10x + 1 are respectively:
A R, [1, ∞) B R, (1, ∞) C R, [3, ∞) 4A
D R, (3, ∞) E R, R

3 The y-intercept for the graph of f(x) = 1 − 2x is:

A 0 B 1 C 2 4A
D 3 E 4

4 When the function f(x) = log10 (x − 1) is translated 2 units up and 1 unit to the left the
function becomes: 4B
A log10 (x − 2) + 2 B log10 (x − 3) + 3 C log10 x + 2
D log10 (x + 1) + 2 E log10 (x + 2) + 1

5 The function f(x) = log2 (x + 1) has as its domain:

A (1, ∞) B [1, ∞) C (−1, ∞) 4B
D [−1, ∞) E R

6 Which of the following graphs best represents the function f(x) = log10 (x − 2) + 1?
4B
A y x=2 B x = –2 y C x = –2 y

2 2 2

x x x
–6 –4 –2 0 2 4 6 –6 –4 –2 0 2 4 6 –6 –4 –2 0 2 4 6
–2 –2 –2

–4 –4 –4

D y E
x=2 x = –2 y
2

2
0 x
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

–2 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 x
 208 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

7 The graph of f(x) = 2e x + 1 is obtained from the graph of f(x) = e x by:

4C A a dilation of 2 units parallel to the x-axis and a translation of 1 unit to the left
B a dilation of 2 units parallel to the x-axis and a translation of 1 unit to the right
C a dilation of 2 units parallel to the y-axis and a translation of 1 unit to the left
D a dilation of 2 units parallel to the y-axis and a translation of 1 unit to the right
E a dilation of 1 unit parallel to the y-axis and a translation of 2 units to the right.

8 If f(x) = e x, the function in the graph at right is:

4C A 3f(x) + 2 B 3f(x) − 2 C 2f(x) + 3
y

2
D 2 − 3f(x) E 2 + 3f(x) (0, 1)

–3 –2 –1 01 2 3 x
y = –2
–2

9 If the horizontal asymptote is y = 2 and the y-intercept is 1, a possible equation for the
4C graph is:
A y = ex + 2 B y = 2e x + 1 C y = 2e x − 1 D y = ex − 2 E y = 2 − ex

10 The vertical asymptote for the graph of f(x) = 3 loge (x − 2) + 1 is:

4D A x = −1 B x=0 C x=1 D x=2 E x=3

11 For the function f: [−1, ∞] → R where f(x) = 3 loge (x + 2), the domain and range are
4D respectively:
A (−2, ∞), (0, ∞) B (2, ∞), R C (−1, ∞), R+
D [−1, ∞), [0, ∞) E R+, R

12 If f(x) = loge (x + 1), the y-intercept of 2f(x) + 3 is:

4D A 0 B 1 C 2 D 3 E 4

13 The general equation of the graph shown is y = Ae x + B. The values y

4E of A and B are: 4
(0, 3)
A 3, −1 B 2, −1 C 4, −1 D −1, 3 2
E 4, 1

–6 –4 –2 0 2 x
y = –1
–2

14 If f(x) = loge (x + 2) + 1, then f(1) and f(0) are respectively (correct to 2 decimal places):
4E A 2.10, 1.69 B 2.09, 0.69 C 2.098, 1.693 D 1.10, 1.69 E 2.10, 0.69

15 The domain of {f(x) + g(x)} is:

4F A dom f ∪ dom g B dom f ∩ dom g C dom f
D dom g E R
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 209
16 If f(x) = g(x) + p(x), and dom g(x) = (−∞, 5] and dom p(x) = (−2, ∞), then the domain of
f(x) is: 4F
A (−2, 5] B [−2, 5) C [−2, 5]
D (−2, 5) E none of the above

17 Which of the following shows the graph of y = x+4 + 4– x?

A B C
4F
y y y
4 4 2

–4 4 x –4 4 x
–4 4 x

D y E y
4
4

–4 4 x –2 2 x

18 The decay of uranium-235 is modelled by the equation U = U0e kt where U is the number of
grams of uranium-235 after t million years. If a 1000 g mass of uranium-235 decays to 4G
907 g in 100 million years, the values of U0 and k are respectively:
A 100, 0.000 976 B 1000, −0.000 976 C 10 000, −0.000 907
D −1000, 0.000 907 E 100, 907

Short answer
1 Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2(x + 1) − 4, showing intercepts and asymptotes, and stating the
domain and range. 4A
2 Sketch the graph of f(x) = 3 log10 2x, showing intercepts and asymptotes, and stating the
domain and range. 4B
3 Sketch the graph of f(x) = 2ex − 1 + 1, showing all key features. State the domain and the
range. 4C
4 Sketch the graph of f(x) = 1 − loge (2 − x), clearly showing intercepts and asymptotes, and
state the domain and range. 4D
5 Find the equation of the graph below, given that it is of the form f(x) = Ae x + B.
4E
y
4
2

x
–4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2
–2 (0, –1)
y = –4
–4
–5
 210 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

6 The graphs of f(x) and g(x) are shown below. Sketch the graph of ( f + g)(x), using the
4F addition-of-ordinates technique.
a y b g(x)
g(x) y
f(x) f(x)

x
x

7 By adding ordinates, sketch the graph of f(x) = log10 2x + log10 x. State the domain and the
4F range.

8 N is the number of bacteria in a culture where N = 10 000e0.04t is the formula for the number
4G of bacteria in the culture after t hours. Find:
a the initial number of bacteria
b the number of bacteria after 10 hours. Give your answer to the nearest thousand.

9 a Use the law loga mp = p loga m to simplify f(x) = log10 x2 and hence sketch the graph of
4G the function f: (0, ∞) → R where f(x) = log10 x2.
b Sketch the graph over the domain, R, noting that it is now possible to take negative values
of x.

Analysis
1 Kerri invested $5000 with a company that pays interest of 5% compounded continuously.
To answer the questions below, use the formula A = A0ert, where A is the amount of
the investment, A0 is the original investment, r is the continuous interest rate and t is
the number of years since the money was originally invested. Round the answer to the
nearest 5c.
a How much money did Kerri first invest with the company?
b How much money did Kerri have with the company after 1 year?
c How much did she have after 5 years?
If the company had been paying interest compounded quarterly, the formula used would
4t
have been A = A0  1 + --- .
r
 4
d Using this system, how much would Kerri have after 5 years of the investment?
e How long would it take to double the investment? Give your answer in years.
f Which is the better investment? Give reasons.
g What is the difference in the amount of interest after 5 years?
h What would be the difference in 5 years if Kerri had invested $10 000?

2 A local council decided to build a new road along the coast. To make it safer it was decided
to design the road so that it followed the curve represented by the equation
y = 2 log10 (2x − a) + 3 where a > 0.
The grid at the top of page 211 shows the road. In each direction, 1 unit represents
1 kilometre.
 Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs 211
y

Bridge

Ship

0 2 x
1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

a If the new section of road goes over the bridge marked on the graph, find the value of a.
b Find the x-coordinate of the point where the road begins. Give the answer correct to
2 decimal places. How far would this be from the vertical axis to the nearest metre?
c What is the shortest distance from the beginning of the road to the coastline if the coastline
is on the vertical asymptote at that point? Give the answer correct to the nearest metre.
d The main highway is along the x-axis. How far is the road from the main highway when
it is in line with the ship marked on the grid? Give the answer in kilometres, correct to
1 decimal place.
212 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

3 The air pressure P in kilopascals (kPa) at a height of x kilometres (km) above sea level may
be modelled by the equation P = aebx.
A mountain climber uses an altimeter to record air pressures at known heights on a climb of
Mount Kosciuszko (height 2.228 km). These pressures are shown in the table below.

x 0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0

P 101.3 95.2 89.4 84.0 78.9

a If b is between −0.1 and −0.2, find the value for b (to 3 decimal places) which produces
the best fitting model of the form P = aebx for the above data.
b Use your model to predict the air pressure at the top of Mount Kosciuszko.

4 The graph of the function f(x) = e2x − bex + c is shown below.

y
y=6

(0, 2)

0 x

a Find the values of b and c.

b Show that the exact values of the x-intercepts are x = loge2 and x = loge3.
c Use a graphics calculator to find the coordinates of the turning point. Round answers to
2 decimal places.
d Find the exact values of the coordinates of the point of intersection of the function and
the horizontal asymptote.
e If the function is reflected in the x-axis, fully define the new function g(x) = −f(x).
f If the function is reflected in the y-axis, fully define the new function, h(x).
g If the function is reflected in both the x- and the y-axis, sketch the graph of the new
function, k(x), write its equation and state the domain and the range.
h Find the equation of f(2 − x) + 1. State the domain and range, rounding to 2 decimal
places where appropriate.
 213
Technology-free questions
Chapter 4 Exponential and logarithmic graphs

The following problems are to be solved without the aid of a calculator. The questions
in this section relate to the topics covered in chapters 1 to 4.

1 Expand each of the following.

x 3
a ( --- + --- )2 b (x + 3y)3 c (3a + b)4
3 x
2 Factorise the expression x4 – x3 – 7x2 + x + 6.
3 Determine whether or not (x + 3) is a factor of x3 − 2x2 − 11x + 12. Justify your
answer.
4 If (x – 2) is a factor of 2x3 – 3x2 + bx + 8, find the value of b.
5 Find all solutions of the equation x3 − 2x2 − x = −2.
6 Sketch the graphs of:
a 6x − 2y = 5, indicating the intercepts
b y = −2(x + 1)2 + 8, stating the intercepts, turning point, domain and range.
7 For the graph with equation y = −x2 − 6x − 5, state:
a the coordinates of the turning point
b the domain and range.
8 The graph of a cubic function has a stationary point of inflection at (−1, 2) and passes
through the origin. Determine the equation of the function.
1
9 The graph of y = ---------------- is dilated by a factor of 3 in the y direction, reflected in the
( x – 2)
x-axis and translated 4 units to the left.
a Determine its new equation.
b Sketch the graph of the new function.
2
10 Sketch the graph of f(x) = 1 + | ------------------2- – 3 |. State its domain and range.
( x – 1)
11 If loga6 = 3 and loga12 = 4, find:
a loga72 b loga0.5 c loga36
log 10 100 000
12 Evaluate ------------------------------
-.
log 10 100

13 Find x if loge10 + 2 logex = loge90.

14 Find {x: 23x − 1 < 32}.
15 P = P0e−t. If P = 120 when t = 0, find the exact value of P when t = 20.
16 For the function g(x) = 2ex + 1 – 4:
a sketch the graph of g(x) by finding the equation of any asymptotes and the coordi-
nates of all intercepts
b determine the rule for g−1(x), and hence state the domain and range of g−1(x).
214 M a t h s Q u e s t F o u n d a t i o n Ye a r M a t h e m a t i c s

17 If h(x) = f(x) + g(x) where f(x) = x2 + 1 and g(x) = loge x, sketch the graph of
h(x) = f(x) + g(x). State the domain and range of h(x).
18 Describe a sequence of transformations that maps the graph of y = f(x) on to the graph
of y = 2f(3 – x) + 5.
19 The path of a river in a particular area is modelled y
by the cubic function shown at right, from x = 0 to A (2, 2)
2
x = 4. The function has a turning point at the origin,
1
point O, a turning point at point A and an x-intercept
of 3. All units are in kilometres. O (0, 0) x
1 2 3 4
a Explain why this cubic function can be
expressed as y = ax2(x – 3).
b Determine the value of a and hence state the
equation of the cubic function.
c Determine the range of the cubic function.
A surveyor estimates the length of this section of the
river using straight lines from O to A to B.
d Calculate the estimated length of this section of B
the river as an exact value.
20 After a protection program for tigers was introduced in a province of India on 1 Jan-
uary 2006, the population of the tigers is modelled by T(t) = 50 × 20.4t, where t is the
number of months after the start of the program. At the same time, the number of
elephants in the province is modelled by E(t) = 400 × 4–0.1t.
Find:
a the number of tigers and elephants in the province on 1 January 2006
b which of the two animals has the highest numbers in the province on 1 April 2007
c the date when the population of the tigers will equal the population of elephants in
the province.
If the number of elephants falls below 25, they are at risk of extinction in this province.
d According to the model, will this happen? If so, when will it happen?