This lesson involves finding an approximation for the value of the mathematical constant (e)and apply it to growth and decay problems.
About the Lesson
In this activity, students will find an approximation for the value of the mathematical constant (e) and to apply it to exponential growth and decay problems. To accomplish this, students are asked to search for the base, b, that defines a function f(x)=bx with the property that at any point on the graph, the slope of the tangent line (instantaneous rate of change) is equal to f(x). The result is approximating the value of (e) Euler’s number and the base of the natural logarithms.
*Note: This activity contains an optional AP Practice Questions document for those students preparing for the AP Precalculus Exam.
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