The function ( b = 8000 × (2.5)ˣ ) can be used to determine the number of bacteria on your calculator over ( x ) days. Which statement best interprets the meaning of the ( y )-intercept?
a) It represents the initial number of bacteria.
b) It represents the growth rate of bacteria.
c) It represents the time taken for bacteria to double.
d) It represents the maximum number of bacteria.