What does the " * " and " ^ " sign mean in math?

How do i do this activity, is appreciated

Given that sin∅ = 1/4, 0 < ∅ < π/2, what is the exact value of cos∅? a. (√4)/4 b. (√15)/4 c. (4π)/2 d. (4√2)/4

Describe the end behavior of the function below. f(x)=(2/3)^x-2 a. as x increases, f(x) approaches infinity. b. as x decreases, f(x) approaches 2. c. as x increases, f(x) approaches -2. d. as x decreases, f(x) approaches negative infinity.