Answer:
In order to understand exponential equations with a whole number and a fraction, we have to revisit the definition.
Exponentiation is just repeated multiplication. For instance, if we have 2^3, we can see that 2 * 2 * 2 = 8. The number keeps getting bigger.
Likewise, if we have (1/2)^3, 1/2 * 1/2 * 1/2 = 1/8. The number keeps getting smaller. Notice a pattern?
When we have a number greater than 1 as a base in an exponential function, the number keeps growing. This is called exponential growth.
In contrast, whenever we have a number less than 1 as a base (i.e. a fraction), the number keeps getting smaller. This is called exponential decay.
Hope this helps.
