The Number e



Activity

Draw the graph of f(x)=a^x for various a. Every graph of this type goes through point (0,1). Find a special number e so that the slope of f(x)=e^x at (0,1) is equal 1.

Applet

  • The left side picture magnifies the right picture arround the point (0,1).

  • Change a by pressing "Increase a" and
    "Decrease a" button.

e is a number that satisfies the condition
This means the slope of f(x)=e^x at (0,1) is equal to 1.