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Find the positive exponential base.

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

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高一必修 第一册(A版).pdf · 4.2 · PDF 118 / printed page 111

Revisit first: Exponents

TOPIC 01

Exponential functions

Build understanding of exponential functions through definitions, contrasting cases and justified applications.

What you will be able to explain

  • Interpret and use exponential functions with domain checks.
  • Connect representations and justify the steps, including boundary cases.
  • Explain a solution and apply the idea to a changed situation.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Foundation#Worked example

Find the positive exponential base.

f(x)=ax,f(2)=4f(x)=a^x,\quad f(2)=4
  • Use the domain, units and sampling assumptions stated in the question.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Identify the base and whether the exponential graph grows or decays.
Hint 2
A real exponential base is positive.
Worked solution
  1. Identify the base and whether the exponential graph grows or decays.

  2. Calculate or simplify this relation.

    a2=4,a>0⇒a=2a^2=4,\quad a>0\Rightarrow a=2
  3. The negative algebraic square root is not an admissible exponential base.

The requested value is 2.

Checks and common pitfalls: The negative algebraic square root is not an admissible exponential base.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • What must be true before using the main rule for exponential functions?
  • Which representation makes this task easier, and why?
  • Change one assumption. Does the conclusion survive?

Board plan

  • Interpret and use exponential functions with domain checks.
  • Base: A real exponential base is positive and different from one.
    y=axy=a^x
  • Growth and decay: Bases above one increase; bases between zero and one decrease.
  • Close with: conditions → representation → reasoning → check.

Anticipated thinking

  • Expected reasoning: A real exponential base is positive and different from one.
  • Expected reasoning: Bases above one increase; bases between zero and one decrease.
  • Expected correction: An exponential never reaches its zero asymptote.

Assessment checklist

  • 1: identify the givens and required quantity.
  • 1: choose a valid definition, representation or method.
  • 1: present connected, correct reasoning.
  • 1: check conditions and explain the result.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗