Question

which graph shows exponential growth?

Explanation:

Exponential growth graphs have the form $y = a^x$ where $a>1$, starting near the x-axis for negative x and increasing rapidly with a curved, upward-sloping shape that never becomes linear.

• The first graph matches this: it stays close to the x-axis on the left, then curves upward with increasing steepness.
• The second graph is exponential decay (decreases then flattens).
• The third graph is a linear function (straight line).
• The fourth graph is a quadratic function (U-shaped parabola).

Answer:

A. The first graph (top-left, curved upward starting near the x-axis)