To correctly analyze the growth rates of the functions \( f(x) = 1.3^x \) and \( g(x) = 1.3x \), it is essential to understand the nature of exponential growth versus linear growth.
The best response from the options provided would be:
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 statement accurately reflects that exponential functions grow faster than linear functions as \( x \) increases. Initially, \( g(x) = 1.3x \) may be greater for small values of \( x \), but eventually \( f(x) = 1.3^x \) will outpace and surpass it, exhibiting a much steeper growth rate as \( x \) continues to increase.