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An exponential model is one in which the dependent variable, y, is related to the independent variable, x by a function of the formy = a*b^x or, equivalently, y = a*e^cx where a, b ad c are constants of the model and e is Euler's number, which is also the base of natural logarithms.
The best description for the exponential growth of species is if the resources available are unlimited, each species can grow to its full potential. This leads the species to grow in numbers.
An exponential function can have negative y-values. However, a real-world exponential decay model will never have negative values. Think of it this way... If you divide a positive number by 2 (or take half of it) and then divide that next number by 2, you will never reach or go below 0. For Example: 20, 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.3125, etc. (Each number is half of the number before it.)
One example of an exponential relationship is the growth of bacteria in a controlled environment, where the population doubles at regular intervals. In contrast, a linear relationship can be observed in the distance traveled by a car moving at a constant speed over time. In both cases, the exponential model captures rapid growth, while the linear model illustrates steady, uniform change.
Exponential relationship!