# 4.8: Fitting Exponential Models to Data


###### Learning Objectives
• Build an exponential model from data.
• Build a logarithmic model from data.
• Build a logistic model from data.

In previous sections of this chapter, we were either given a function explicitly to graph or evaluate, or we were given a set of points that were guaranteed to lie on the curve. Then we used algebra to find the equation that fit the points exactly. In this section, we use a modeling technique called regression analysis to find a curve that models data collected from real-world observations. With regression analysis, we don’t expect all the points to lie perfectly on the curve. The idea is to find a model that best fits the data. Then we use the model to make predictions about future events.

Do not be confused by the word model. In mathematics, we often use the terms function, equation, and model interchangeably, even though they each have their own formal definition. The term model is typically used to indicate that the equation or function approximates a real-world situation.

We will concentrate on three types of regression models in this section: exponential, logarithmic, and logistic. Having already worked with each of these functions gives us an advantage. Knowing their formal definitions, the behavior of their graphs, and some of their real-world applications gives us the opportunity to deepen our understanding. As each regression model is presented, key features and definitions of its associated function are included for review. Take a moment to rethink each of these functions, reflect on the work we’ve done so far, and then explore the ways regression is used to model real-world phenomena.

## Building an Exponential Model from Data

As we’ve learned, there are a multitude of situations that can be modeled by exponential functions, such as investment growth, radioactive decay, atmospheric pressure changes, and temperatures of a cooling object. What do these phenomena have in common? For one thing, all the models either increase or decrease as time moves forward. But that’s not the whole story. It’s the way data increase or decrease that helps us determine whether it is best modeled by an exponential equation. Knowing the behavior of exponential functions in general allows us to recognize when to use exponential regression, so let’s review exponential growth and decay.

Recall that exponential functions have the form $$y=ab^x$$ or $$y=A_0e^{kx}$$. When performing regression analysis, we use the form most commonly used on graphing utilities, $$y=ab^x$$. Take a moment to reflect on the characteristics we’ve already learned about the exponential function $$y=ab^x$$ (assume $$a>0$$):

• $$b$$ must be greater than zero and not equal to one.
• The initial value of the model is $$y=a$$.
• If $$b>1$$, the function models exponential growth. As $$x$$ increases, the outputs of the model increase slowly at first, but then increase more and more rapidly, without bound.
• If $$0<b<1$$, the function models exponential decay. As $$x$$ increases, the outputs for the model decrease rapidly at first and then level off to become asymptotic to the x-axis. In other words, the outputs never become equal to or less than zero.

As part of the results, your calculator will display a number known as the correlation coefficient, labeled by the variable $$r$$, or $$r^2$$. (You may have to change the calculator’s settings for these to be shown.) The values are an indication of the “goodness of fit” of the regression equation to the data. We more commonly use the value of $$r^2$$ instead of $$r$$, but the closer either value is to $$1$$, the better the regression equation approximates the data.

###### EXPONENTIAL REGRESSION

Exponential regression is used to model situations in which growth begins slowly and then accelerates rapidly without bound, or where decay begins rapidly and then slows down to get closer and closer to zero. We use the command “ExpReg” on a graphing utility to fit an exponential function to a set of data points. This returns an equation of the form,

$y=ab^x$

Note that:

• $$b$$ must be non-negative.
• when $$b>1$$, we have an exponential growth model.
• when $$0<b<1$$, we have an exponential decay model.
###### How to: Given a set of data, perform exponential regression using a graphing utility
1. Use the STAT then EDIT menu to enter given data.
1. Clear any existing data from the lists.
2. List the input values in the L1 column.
3. List the output values in the L2 column.
2. Graph and observe a scatter plot of the data using the STATPLOT feature.
1. Use ZOOM [9] to adjust axes to fit the data.
2. Verify the data follow an exponential pattern.
3. Find the equation that models the data.
1. Select “ExpReg” from the STAT then CALC menu.
2. Use the values returned for a and b to record the model, $$y=ab^x$$.
4. Graph the model in the same window as the scatterplot to verify it is a good fit for the data.

Example $$\PageIndex{1}$$: Using Exponential Regression to Fit a Model to Data

In 2007, a university study was published investigating the crash risk of alcohol impaired driving. Data from $$2,871$$ crashes were used to measure the association of a person’s blood alcohol level (BAC) with the risk of being in an accident. Table $$\PageIndex{1}$$ shows results from the study. The relative risk is a measure of how many times more likely a person is to crash. So, for example, a person with a BAC of $$0.09$$ is $$3.54$$ times as likely to crash as a person who has not been drinking alcohol.

 BAC Relative Risk of Crashing BAC Relative Risk of Crashing 0 0.01 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.09 1 1.03 1.06 1.38 2.09 3.54 0.11 0.13 0.15 0.17 0.19 0.21 6.41 12.6 22.1 39.05 65.32 99.78
1. Let $$x$$ represent the BAC level, and let $$y$$ represent the corresponding relative risk. Use exponential regression to fit a model to these data.
2. After $$6$$ drinks, a person weighing $$160$$ pounds will have a BAC of about $$0.16$$. How many times more likely is a person with this weight to crash if they drive after having a $$6$$-pack of beer? Round to the nearest hundredth.

Solution

1. Using the STAT then EDIT menu on a graphing utility, list the BAC values in L1 and the relative risk values in L2. Then use the STATPLOT feature to verify that the scatterplot follows the exponential pattern shown in Figure $$\PageIndex{1}$$:

Figure $$\PageIndex{1}$$

Use the “ExpReg” command from the STAT then CALC menu to obtain the exponential model,

$$y=0.58304829{(2.20720213E10)}^x$$

Converting from scientific notation, we have:

$$y=0.58304829{(22,072,021,300)}^x$$

Notice that $$r^2≈0.97$$ which indicates the model is a good fit to the data. To see this, graph the model in the same window as the scatterplot to verify it is a good fit as shown in Figure $$\PageIndex{2}$$:

Figure $$\PageIndex{2}$$

1. Use the model to estimate the risk associated with a BAC of $$0.16$$. Substitute $$0.16$$ for $$x$$ in the model and solve for $$y$$.

\begin{align*} y&= 0.58304829{(22,072,021,300)}^x \qquad \text{Use the regression model found in part } (a)\\ &= 0.58304829{(22,072,021,300)}^{0.16} \qquad \text{Substitute 0.16 for x}\\ &\approx 26.35 \qquad \text{Round to the nearest hundredth} \end{align*}

If a $$160$$-pound person drives after having $$6$$ drinks, he or she is about $$26.35$$ times more likely to crash than if driving while sober.

###### Exercise $$\PageIndex{1}$$

Table $$\PageIndex{2}$$ shows a recent graduate’s credit card balance each month after graduation.

 Month Debt (\$) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 620 761.88 899.8 1039.93 1270.63 1589.04 1851.31 2154.92
1. Use exponential regression to fit a model to these data.
2. If spending continues at this rate, what will the graduate’s credit card debt be one year after graduating?

The exponential regression model that fits these data is $$y=522.88585984{(1.19645256)}^x$$.

If spending continues at this rate, the graduate’s credit card debt will be $$4,499.38$$ after one year.

###### Q&A: Is it reasonable to assume that an exponential regression model will represent a situation indefinitely?

No. Remember that models are formed by real-world data gathered for regression. It is usually reasonable to make estimates within the interval of original observation (interpolation). However, when a model is used to make predictions, it is important to use reasoning skills to determine whether the model makes sense for inputs far beyond the original observation interval (extrapolation).

## Building a Logarithmic Model from Data

Just as with exponential functions, there are many real-world applications for logarithmic functions: intensity of sound, pH levels of solutions, yields of chemical reactions, production of goods, and growth of infants. As with exponential models, data modeled by logarithmic functions are either always increasing or always decreasing as time moves forward. Again, it is the way they increase or decrease that helps us determine whether a logarithmic model is best.

Recall that logarithmic functions increase or decrease rapidly at first, but then steadily slow as time moves on. By reflecting on the characteristics we’ve already learned about this function, we can better analyze real world situations that reflect this type of growth or decay. When performing logarithmic regression analysis, we use the form of the logarithmic function most commonly used on graphing utilities, $$y=a+b\ln(x)$$. For this function

• All input values, $$x$$,must be greater than zero.
• The point $$(1,a)$$ is on the graph of the model.
• If $$b>0$$,the model is increasing. Growth increases rapidly at first and then steadily slows over time.
• If $$b<0$$,the model is decreasing. Decay occurs rapidly at first and then steadily slows over time.
###### LOGARITHMIC REGRESSION

Logarithmic regression is used to model situations where growth or decay accelerates rapidly at first and then slows over time. We use the command “LnReg” on a graphing utility to fit a logarithmic function to a set of data points. This returns an equation of the form,

$y=a+b\ln(x)$

Note that

• all input values, $$x$$,must be non-negative.
• when $$b>0$$, the model is increasing.
• when $$b<0$$, the model is decreasing.
###### How to: Given a set of data, perform logarithmic regression using a graphing utility
1. Use the STAT then EDIT menu to enter given data.
1. Clear any existing data from the lists.
2. List the input values in the L1 column.
3. List the output values in the L2 column.
2. Graph and observe a scatter plot of the data using the STATPLOT feature.
1. Use ZOOM [9] to adjust axes to fit the data.
2. Verify the data follow a logarithmic pattern.
3. Find the equation that models the data.
1. Select “LnReg” from the STAT then CALC menu.
2. Use the values returned for a and b to record the model, $$y=a+b\ln(x)$$.
4. Graph the model in the same window as the scatterplot to verify it is a good fit for the data.
###### Example $$\PageIndex{2}$$: Using Logarithmic Regression to Fit a Model to Data

Due to advances in medicine and higher standards of living, life expectancy has been increasing in most developed countries since the beginning of the 20th century. Table $$\PageIndex{3}$$ shows the average life expectancies, in years, of Americans from 1900–2010.

 Year Life Expectancy(Years) Year Life Expectancy(Years) 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 47.3 50 54.1 59.7 62.9 68.2 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 69.7 70.8 73.7 75.4 76.8 78.7
1. Let $$x$$ represent time in decades starting with $$x=1$$ for the year 1900, $$x=2$$ for the year 1910, and so on. Let $$y$$ represent the corresponding life expectancy. Use logarithmic regression to fit a model to these data.
2. Use the model to predict the average American life expectancy for the year 2030.

Solution

1. Using the STAT then EDIT menu on a graphing utility, list the years using values $$1–12$$ in L1 and the corresponding life expectancy in L2. Then use the STATPLOT feature to verify that the scatterplot follows a logarithmic pattern as shown in Figure $$\PageIndex{3}$$:

Figure $$\PageIndex{3}$$

Use the “LnReg” command from the STAT then CALC menu to obtain the logarithmic model,

$$y=42.52722583+13.85752327\ln(x)$$

Next, graph the model in the same window as the scatterplot to verify it is a good fit as shown in Figure $$\PageIndex{4}$$:

Figure $$\PageIndex{4}$$

1. To predict the life expectancy of an American in the year $$2030$$, substitute $$x=14$$  for the in the model and solve for $$y$$:

\begin{align*} y&= 42.52722583+13.85752327\ln(x) \qquad \text{Use the regression model found in part } (a)\\ &= 42.52722583+13.85752327\ln(14) \qquad \text{Substitute 14 for x}\\ &\approx 79.1 \qquad \text{Round to the nearest tenth} \end{align*}

If life expectancy continues to increase at this pace, the average life expectancy of an American will be $$79.1$$ by the year $$2030$$.

###### Exercise $$\PageIndex{2}$$

Sales of a video game released in the year 2000 took off at first, but then steadily slowed as time moved on. Table $$\PageIndex{4}$$ shows the number of games sold, in thousands, from the years 2000–2010.

 Year Number Sold (thousands) Year Number Sold (thousands) 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 142 149 154 155 159 161 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 - 163 164 164 166 167 -

Let $$x$$ represent time in years starting with $$x=1$$ for the year 2000. Let $$y$$ represent the number of games sold in thousands.

1. Use logarithmic regression to fit a model to these data.
2. If games continue to sell at this rate, how many games will sell in 2015? Round to the nearest thousand.

The logarithmic regression model that fits these data is $$y=141.91242949+10.45366573\ln(x)$$

If sales continue at this rate, about $$171,000$$ games will be sold in the year $$2015$$.

## Building a Logistic Model from Data

Like exponential and logarithmic growth, logistic growth increases over time. One of the most notable differences with logistic growth models is that, at a certain point, growth steadily slows and the function approaches an upper bound, or limiting value. Because of this, logistic regression is best for modeling phenomena where there are limits in expansion, such as availability of living space or nutrients.

It is worth pointing out that logistic functions actually model resource-limited exponential growth. There are many examples of this type of growth in real-world situations, including population growth and spread of disease, rumors, and even stains in fabric. When performing logistic regression analysis, we use the form most commonly used on graphing utilities:

$$y=\dfrac{c}{1+ae^{−bx}}$$

Recall that:

• $$\dfrac{c}{1+a}$$ is the initial value of the model.
• when $$b>0$$, the model increases rapidly at first until it reaches its point of maximum growth rate, $$(\dfrac{\ln(a)}{b}, \dfrac{c}{2})$$. At that point, growth steadily slows and the function becomes asymptotic to the upper bound $$y=c$$.
• $$c$$  is the limiting value, sometimes called the carrying capacity, of the model.
###### LOGISTIC REGRESSION

Logistic regression is used to model situations where growth accelerates rapidly at first and then steadily slows to an upper limit. We use the command “Logistic” on a graphing utility to fit a logistic function to a set of data points. This returns an equation of the form

$y=\dfrac{c}{1+ae^{−bx}}$

Note that

• The initial value of the model is $$\dfrac{c}{1+a}$$.
• Output values for the model grow closer and closer to $$y=c$$ as time increases.
###### How to: Given a set of data, perform logistic regression using a graphing utility
1. Use the STAT then EDIT menu to enter given data.
1. Clear any existing data from the lists.
2. List the input values in the L1 column.
3. List the output values in the L2 column.
2. Graph and observe a scatter plot of the data using the STATPLOT feature.
1. Use ZOOM [9] to adjust axes to fit the data.
2. Verify the data follow a logistic pattern.
3. Find the equation that models the data.
1. Select “Logistic” from the STAT then CALC menu.
2. Use the values returned for $$a$$, $$b$$, and $$c$$ to record the model, $$y=\dfrac{c}{1+ae^{−bx}}$$.
4. Graph the model in the same window as the scatterplot to verify it is a good fit for the data.
###### Example $$\PageIndex{3}$$: Using Logistic Regression to Fit a Model to Data

Mobile telephone service has increased rapidly in America since the mid 1990s. Today, almost all residents have cellular service. Table $$\PageIndex{5}$$ shows the percentage of Americans with cellular service between the years 1995 and 2012.

Table $$\PageIndex{5}$$
Year Americans with Cellular Service (%) Year Americans with Cellular Service (%)
1995 12.69 2004 62.852
1996 16.35 2005 68.63
1997 20.29 2006 76.64
1998 25.08 2007 82.47
1999 30.81 2008 85.68
2000 38.75 2009 89.14
2001 45.00 2010 91.86
2002 49.16 2011 95.28
2003 55.15 2012 98.17
1. Let $$x$$ represent time in years starting with $$x=0$$ for the year 1995. Let $$y$$ represent the corresponding percentage of residents with cellular service. Use logistic regression to fit a model to these data.
2. Use the model to calculate the percentage of Americans with cell service in the year 2013. Round to the nearest tenth of a percent.
3. Discuss the value returned for the upper limit, $$c$$. What does this tell you about the model? What would the limiting value be if the model were exact?

Solution

1. Using the STAT then EDIT menu on a graphing utility, list the years using values $$0–15$$ in L1 and the corresponding percentage in L2. Then use the STATPLOT feature to verify that the scatterplot follows a logistic pattern as shown in Figure $$\PageIndex{5}$$:

Figure $$\PageIndex{5}$$

Use the “Logistic” command from the STAT then CALC menu to obtain the logistic model,

$y=105.73795261+6.88328979e^{−0.2595440013x}$

Next, graph the model in the same window as shown in Figure $$\PageIndex{6}$$ the scatterplot to verify it is a good fit:

Figure $$\PageIndex{6}$$

1. To approximate the percentage of Americans with cellular service in the year 2013, substitute $$x=18$$ for the in the model and solve for $$y$$:

\begin{align*} y&= \dfrac{105.7379526}{1+6.88328979e^{-0.2595440013x}} \qquad \text{Use the regression model found in part } (a)\\ &= \dfrac{105.7379526}{1+6.88328979e^{-0.2595440013(18)}} \qquad \text{Substitute 18 for x}\\ &\approx 99.3 \qquad \text{Round to the nearest tenth} \end{align*}

According to the model, about 98.8% of Americans had cellular service in 2013.

1. The model gives a limiting value of about $$105$$. This means that the maximum possible percentage of Americans with cellular service would be $$105%$$, which is impossible. (How could over $$100%$$ of a population have cellular service?) If the model were exact, the limiting value would be $$c=100$$ and the model’s outputs would get very close to, but never actually reach $$100%$$. After all, there will always be someone out there without cellular service!
###### Exercise $$\PageIndex{3}$$

Table $$\PageIndex{6}$$ shows the population, in thousands, of harbor seals in the Wadden Sea over the years 1997 to 2012.

Table $$\PageIndex{6}$$
Year Seal Population (Thousands) Year Seal Population (Thousands)
1997 3.493 2005 19.590
1998 5.282 2006 21.955
1999 6.357 2007 22.862
2000 9.201 2008 23.869
2001 11.224 2009 24.243
2002 12.964 2010 24.344
2003 16.226 2011 24.919
2004 18.137 2012 25.108

Let $$x$$ represent time in years starting with $$x=0$$ for the year 1997. Let $$y$$ represent the number of seals in thousands.

1. Use logistic regression to fit a model to these data.
2. Use the model to predict the seal population for the year 2020.
3. To the nearest whole number, what is the limiting value of this model?

The logistic regression model that fits these data is $$y=\dfrac{25.65665979}{1+6.113686306e^{−0.3852149008x}}$$.

If the population continues to grow at this rate, there will be about $$25,634$$ seals in 2020.

To the nearest whole number, the carrying capacity is $$25,657$$.

###### Media

Access this online resource for additional instruction and practice with exponential function models.

Visit this website for additional practice questions from Learningpod.

## Key Concepts

• Exponential regression is used to model situations where growth begins slowly and then accelerates rapidly without bound, or where decay begins rapidly and then slows down to get closer and closer to zero.
• We use the command “ExpReg” on a graphing utility to fit function of the form $$y=ab^x$$ to a set of data points. See Example $$\PageIndex{1}$$.
• Logarithmic regression is used to model situations where growth or decay accelerates rapidly at first and then slows over time.
• We use the command “LnReg” on a graphing utility to fit a function of the form $$y=a+b\ln(x)$$ to a set of data points. See Example $$\PageIndex{2}$$.
• Logistic regression is used to model situations where growth accelerates rapidly at first and then steadily slows as the function approaches an upper limit.
• We use the command “Logistic” on a graphing utility to fit a function of the form $$y=\dfrac{c}{1+ae^{−bx}}$$ to a set of data points. See Example $$\PageIndex{3}$$.