Perhaps the clearest and simplest introduction to the Exponential Function and its practical implications for the human species can be found in the lectures of Albert Bartlett, Emeritus Professor ...

The exponential function is all about growth, and growth follows a logical curve. It can be linear or exponential. Linear is what children do as they grow in weight.

Exponential growth is a pattern of data that shows greater increases with passing time, creating the curve of an exponential function.

Shapes and Functions of Species-Area Curves: A Review of Possible Models, Journal of Biogeography, Vol. 30, No. 6 (Jun., 2003), pp. 827-835 ...