Key Features:
- Growth: Starts slowly, accelerates rapidly (J-shaped curve)
- Decay: Starts rapidly, slows down gradually (reverse J-shape)
- N₀: Both curves start at the same initial value
- Both curves are never linear - the rate of change constantly changes
This diagram covers Growth vs Decay Curves within Growth & Decay for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Growth & Decay in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 3 of 9 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.
Practice questions for Growth & Decay
A quantity increases by 8% each year. Which multiplier should be used for each year?
Explain the difference between simple interest and compound interest.
Quick recall flashcards
What is the formula for half-life decay?
N = N₀ × (0.5)ⁿ
Where:
N = remaining amount
N₀ = initial amount
n = number of half-life periods
What is the formula for exponential decay?
N = N₀ × (1 - r)ⁿ
Where:
N = final amount
N₀ = initial amount
r = decay rate (as decimal)
n = number of time periods