John Spacey, May 21, 2016 updated on September 21, 2017
Exponential growth and hyperbolic growth are often confused because they both feature ever increasing rates of growth or decline. The main difference between them is that exponential growth moves towards infinity with time. Hyperbolic growth becomes infinity at a point in time in a dramatic event known as a singularity.
Exponential Growth
Exponential growth is characterized by an ever increasing growth rate or rate of decline. It eventually starts moving very quickly but remains a function of time. In other words, it doesn't suddenly jump to infinity. For example, exponential growth can be seen in the growth of bacteria, economies and certain environmental pollutants.
Hyperbolic Growth
Hyperbolic growth and decline are characterized by a sudden and complete breakout or breakdown that instantly reaches infinity. For example, a company with a high debt load based on floating rates may be marginally profitable at a 3% base rate, at 4% it may struggle but survive, at 5% it suddenly and dramatically fails.
Exponential vs Hyperbolic
Exponential
Hyperbolic
Definition
Growth defined by an exponential function.
Growth that reaches a singularity at a finite point.
Example Equation
y = 2x
y = 1/x
Example Scenario
Economic growth, pollution
Technological singularity, things that fail at a point such as a bridge that fails at a certain load.
Statistical Analysis
This is the complete list of articles we have written about statistical analysis.
Cookies help us deliver our services. You have choices regarding these cookies. Please visit our privacy policy, cookie policy and consent tool to learn more.
Copyright 2002-2023 Simplicable. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, redistributed or translated. Report violations here.
