Comparing Linear, Exponential, and Quadratic Functions

Overview

Goal. Identify linear, quadratic, and exponential functions from equations, tables, and graphs, and state how their growth compares in the long run.

Second differences (definition). The differences of the first differences of a table; for a quadratic function they are constant.

Constant differences, constant second differences, constant ratios — and who wins in the long run.

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Goal. Tell linear, quadratic, and exponential functions apart from their equations, tables, and graphs — and predict which one wins in the long run.

Second differences (definition). The differences of the first differences of a table; for a quadratic function they are constant.