To accurately compare the growth rates of the functions \( g(x) = 1.3^x \) and \( f(x) = 1.3x \), Austin should indeed analyze the behavior of the functions as \( x \) increases.
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Understanding the Functions: The function \( f(x) = 1.3^x \) is an exponential function, whereas \( g(x) = 1.3x \) is a linear function. Exponential functions grow faster than linear functions as \( x \) becomes large.
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Observations about Growth Rate: As \( x \) increases, \( 1.3^x \) will eventually exceed \( 1.3x \) and will grow significantly faster.
Considering these points, the appropriate response is:
"Austin should compare the steepness of the curves. The growth rate of \( f(x) = 1.3^x \) will quickly surpass the growth rate of \( g(x) = 1.3x \)."
This observation highlights the exponential growth outpacing linear growth, which is key to understanding their behaviors.