The first table, representing f(x), is linear. The data have a constant rate of change or slope:
(between the first two points): m = (y₂ - y₁)/(x₂ - x₁) = (22-18)/(-1--2) = 4/(-1+2) = 4/1 = 4. The rate of change between any two points is the same:
(between the last two points): m = (34-30)/(2-1) = 4/1 = 4.
The second table, representing g(x), is exponential. The data points are multiplied by the same constant between successive points. 2*2 = 4; 4*2= 8; 8*2 = 16, etc.
