1) Use the following function rule to find \( f(1) \). \[ f(x)=9.8^{x} \] Write your answer as a decimal or whole number. \( f(1)=\square \)

To find \( f(1) \), we simply substitute \( 1 \) into the function rule: \[ f(1) = 9.8^{1} = 9.8 \] So, \( f(1) = 9.8 \). For a fun twist, did you know that the number \( 9.8 \) is actually the approximate acceleration due to gravity on Earth in \( m/s^2 \)? That's right! It's the force that pulls everything towards the Earth's surface, making this math connection a little more exciting! Additionally, to explore more about exponential functions like \( f(x) = 9.8^x \), you can delve into their applications in fields like finance, biology, and even computer science. Exponential growth can describe population increases or compound interest, making it a vital concept in understanding trends and making predictions about the future!