1. The problem is to graph the function $y = a^x$ where $a > 0$ and $a \neq 1$. 2. The general form of an exponential function is $y = a^x$. 3. Important rules: - If $a > 1$, the function is increasing. - If $0 < a < 1$, the function is decreasing. - The graph passes through the point $(0,1)$ because $a^0 = 1$. - The $x$-axis ($y=0$) is a horizontal asymptote. 4. To graph, plot points for various $x$ values and connect smoothly. 5. Example: For $a=2$, points include $(-2, \frac{1}{4})$, $(-1, \frac{1}{2})$, $(0,1)$, $(1,2)$, $(2,4)$. 6. The graph shows exponential growth for $a=2$. Final answer: The function $y = a^x$ with $a > 0$ and $a \neq 1$ is an exponential function with the properties above, and its graph passes through $(0,1)$ with a horizontal asymptote at $y=0$.