AP Precalculus Flashcards

Flashcards for reviewing key concepts from AP Precalculus Unit 2, covering topics such as graph analysis, functions, sequences, and regression analysis.

Concave Up

A curve that opens upwards, resembling a cup or 'U' shape.

Concave Down

A curve that opens downwards, resembling an upside-down cup or 'n' shape.

Rate of Change (Increasing)

Indicates the slope of a function is increasing, resulting in a concave up curve.

Rate of Change (Decreasing)

Indicates the slope of a function is decreasing, resulting in a concave down curve.

Exponential Growth

Occurs when a function increases rapidly; in the form f(x) = ab^x, 'b' > 1.

Exponential Decay

Occurs when a function decreases rapidly; in the form f(x) = ab^x, 0 < 'b' < 1.

Horizontal Asymptote (HA)

A horizontal line that a graph approaches as x tends to +∞ or -∞.

Arithmetic Sequence

A sequence with a constant difference between consecutive terms.

Geometric Sequence

A sequence with a constant ratio between consecutive terms.

Residual Plot Pattern

In regression analysis, a clear pattern in the residual plot indicates that the chosen model may not be appropriate.

Semi-Log Plot

A plot where one axis (typically the y-axis) is logarithmically scaled and the other is linearly scaled.

Linear Regression

A statistical method used to model the relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables by fitting a linear equation to the observed data.

Logarithmic Regression

A statistical method used to model the relationship between variables using a logarithmic function.

Extraneous Solution

A solution to a transformed equation that is not a solution to the original equation.

Inverse Function

A function that reverses the effect of another function.

Horizontal Dilation

A transformation that stretches or compresses a graph horizontally.