An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the Nov 2025 (V4) Cambridge International A Level Mathematics - Further (9231) paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Cambridge.
Paper 1: Further Pure Mathematics 1
Answer all questions. Show all necessary working clearly; no marks will be given for unsupported answers from a calculator.
**Inductive step:** Assume that \(H_k\) is true for some positive integer \(k\). That is, \(\mathbf{M}^k = \begin{pmatrix} 2k+1 & -4k \\ k & 1-2k \end{pmatrix}\).
We must show that \(H_{k+1}\) is true, i.e., \(\mathbf{M}^{k+1} = \begin{pmatrix} 2(k+1)+1 & -4(k+1) \\ k+1 & 1-2(k+1) \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 2k+3 & -4k-4 \\ k+1 & -2k-1 \end{pmatrix}\).
This is of the required form for \(n=k+1\). Since \(H_1\) is true, and \(H_k \implies H_{k+1}\), the statement \(H_n\) is true for all positive integers \(n\) by mathematical induction.
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(a) M1: For attempting matrix multiplication for \(\mathbf{M}^2\). A1: For correct \(\mathbf{M}^2\). A1: For correct \(\mathbf{M}^3\).
(b) B1: For verifying the base case \(n=1\) clearly. M1: For stating the inductive hypothesis for \(n=k\). M1: For attempting to find \(\mathbf{M}^{k+1} = \mathbf{M}^k \mathbf{M}\) (or vice versa). A1: For correctly multiplying the matrices. A1: For simplifying algebraic expressions to the required form. A1: For a complete and coherent inductive conclusion stating that the result holds for all positive integers.
PastPaper.question 2 · Structured Questions
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The cubic equation \(x^3 - 3x^2 + 2x - 5 = 0\) has roots \(\alpha\), \(\beta\), \(\gamma\).
(a) Find the value of \(\alpha^2 + \beta^2 + \gamma^2\). [3]
(b) Find the value of \(\alpha^3 + \beta^3 + \gamma^3\). [4]
(c) Find a cubic equation with integer coefficients whose roots are \(\frac{1}{\alpha}\), \(\frac{1}{\beta}\), \(\frac{1}{\gamma}\). [4]
(c) Let \(y = \frac{1}{x} \implies x = \frac{1}{y}\). Substituting \(x = \frac{1}{y}\) into the original equation: \((\frac{1}{y})^3 - 3(\frac{1}{y})^2 + 2(\frac{1}{y}) - 5 = 0\) \(\frac{1}{y^3} - \frac{3}{y^2} + \frac{2}{y} - 5 = 0\) Multiplying by \(y^3\): \(1 - 3y + 2y^2 - 5y^3 = 0 \implies 5y^3 - 2y^2 + 3y - 1 = 0\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) B1: Correctly state \(\sum \alpha = 3\) and \(\sum \alpha\beta = 2\). M1: Use of identity \(\sum \alpha^2 = (\sum \alpha)^2 - 2\sum \alpha\beta\). A1: Correct value 5.
(b) M1: State the identity or set up the sum of cubic equations. M1: Substitute the values of \(\sum \alpha^2\) and \(\sum \alpha\). A1: Correctly simplify the expression. A1: Correct value 24.
(c) M1: Use substitution \(x = \frac{1}{y}\) (or alternative method using sums of roots). M1: Obtain a fraction-free equation. A1: Correct polynomial equation in \(y\). A1: Write final equation with integer coefficients (e.g., \(5y^3 - 2y^2 + 3y - 1 = 0\)).
PastPaper.question 3 · Structured Questions
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(a) Show that \(\frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2} = \frac{1}{r^2} - \frac{1}{(r+1)^2}\). [2]
(b) Find an expression in terms of \(n\) for \(\sum_{r=1}^n \frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2}\). [4]
(c) Deduce the sum of the infinite series \(\sum_{r=1}^\infty \frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2}\). [2]
(d) Find the smallest value of \(N\) such that \(\sum_{r=N}^\infty \frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2} < 0.005\). [3]
(d) We want \(\sum_{r=N}^\infty \frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2} < 0.005\). \(\sum_{r=N}^\infty \frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2} = \sum_{r=1}^\infty \frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2} - \sum_{r=1}^{N-1} \frac{2r+1}{r^2(r+1)^2}\) \(= 1 - \left( 1 - \frac{1}{N^2} \right) = \frac{1}{N^2}\). We set \(\frac{1}{N^2} < 0.005 \implies N^2 > 200 \implies N > \sqrt{200} \approx 14.14\). Since \(N\) is an integer, the smallest value of \(N\) is 15.
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(a) M1: For putting fractions over a common denominator. A1: Correct algebraic expansion leading to numerator \(2r+1\).
(b) M1: Expressing the series using the result from part (a). A1: Writing down the first few terms showing the differences. A1: Indicating cancellation clearly. A1: Obtaining the correct simplified sum \(1 - \frac{1}{(n+1)^2}\).
(c) M1: Taking the limit of the sum as \(n \to \infty\). A1: Deducting the correct limit value of 1.
(d) M1: Expressing the sum from \(N\) to infinity as \(\frac{1}{N^2}\). A1: Setting up and solving the inequality \(N^2 > 200\). A1: Concluding the integer value \(N = 15\).
PastPaper.question 4 · Structured Questions
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The line \(l_1\) passes through the point \(A (1, -1, 2)\) and has direction vector \(\mathbf{d}_1 = \mathbf{i} + 2\mathbf{j} - \mathbf{k}\). The line \(l_2\) passes through the point \(B (2, 3, 0)\) and has direction vector \(\mathbf{d}_2 = 2\mathbf{i} - \mathbf{j} + 3\mathbf{k}\).
(a) Find a vector that is perpendicular to both \(l_1\) and \(l_2\). [3]
(b) Find the shortest distance between \(l_1\) and \(l_2\). [5]
(c) Find the Cartesian equation of the plane containing \(l_1\) that is parallel to \(l_2\). [3]
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) A vector perpendicular to both lines is the cross product of \(\mathbf{d}_1\) and \(\mathbf{d}_2\): \(\mathbf{n} = \mathbf{d}_1 \times \mathbf{d}_2 = \begin{vmatrix} \mathbf{i} & \mathbf{j} & \mathbf{k} \\ 1 & 2 & -1 \\ 2 & -1 & 3 \end{vmatrix}\) \(= \mathbf{i}(6 - 1) - \mathbf{j}(3 + 2) + \mathbf{k}(-1 - 4) = 5\mathbf{i} - 5\mathbf{j} - 5\mathbf{k}\). We can scale this to simplify the normal vector to: \(\mathbf{n}_0 = \mathbf{i} - \mathbf{j} - \mathbf{k}\).
(c) The plane has normal vector \(\mathbf{n}_0 = \mathbf{i} - \mathbf{j} - \mathbf{k}\) and contains the point \(A(1, -1, 2)\). Its equation is: \(1(x - 1) - 1(y + 1) - 1(z - 2) = 0\) \(x - y - z = 0\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) M1: For attempting the cross product of \(\mathbf{d}_1\) and \(\mathbf{d}_2\). A1: For evaluating at least two components correctly. A1: Correct perpendicular vector (any scalar multiple of \(\mathbf{i} - \mathbf{j} - \mathbf{k}\)).
(b) B1: For finding the vector \(\vec{AB} = \mathbf{i} + 4\mathbf{j} - 2\mathbf{k}\). M1: Using the formula for shortest distance between two skew lines. A1: Evaluating \(|\vec{AB} \cdot \mathbf{n}_0|\) correctly. A1: Correctly finding the magnitude of the normal vector. A1: Correct distance \(\frac{1}{\sqrt{3}}\) or \(\frac{\sqrt{3}}{3}\).
(c) M1: Recognizing the plane's normal is \(\mathbf{n}_0\) and contains \(A\). A1: Setting up \(\mathbf{r} \cdot \mathbf{n} = \mathbf{a} \cdot \mathbf{n}\). A1: Correct Cartesian equation \(x - y - z = 0\).
PastPaper.question 5 · Structured Questions
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A linear transformation is represented by the matrix \(\mathbf{M} = \begin{pmatrix} 3 & 2 \\ 1 & 4 \end{pmatrix}\).
(a) Show that the origin \((0,0)\) is the only invariant point of the transformation represented by \(\mathbf{M}\). [3]
(b) Find the equations of the invariant lines through the origin under this transformation. [5]
(c) Find the equation of the image of the line \(y = 2x + 1\) under this transformation. [3]
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) Let \(\begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \end{pmatrix}\) be an invariant point. Then: \(\begin{pmatrix} 3 & 2 \\ 1 & 4 \end{pmatrix} \begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \end{pmatrix}\) This gives: \(3x + 2y = x \implies 2x + 2y = 0 \implies x + y = 0\) \(x + 4y = y \implies x + 3y = 0\) Solving simultaneously: Subtracting the first from the second gives \(2y = 0 \implies y = 0\), which leads to \(x = 0\). Thus, the origin \((0,0)\) is the unique invariant point.
(b) Let the invariant line be \(y = mx\). Let \(\begin{pmatrix} X \\ Y \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 3 & 2 \\ 1 & 4 \end{pmatrix} \begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 3x + 2y \\ x + 4y \end{pmatrix}\). Since a point on \(y=mx\) maps to another point on \(Y=mX\): \(x + 4(mx) = m(3x + 2mx)\) Since this must hold for all \(x \neq 0\), we divide by \(x\): \(1 + 4m = m(3 + 2m) \implies 2m^2 - m - 1 = 0\) \((2m + 1)(m - 1) = 0 \implies m = 1\) or \(m = -\frac{1}{2}\). Thus, the invariant lines are \(y = x\) and \(y = -\frac{1}{2}x\).
(c) The determinant of \(\mathbf{M}\) is \(3(4) - 2(1) = 10\). The inverse is \(\mathbf{M}^{-1} = \frac{1}{10} \begin{pmatrix} 4 & -2 \\ -1 & 3 \end{pmatrix}\). Thus: \(x = \frac{4X - 2Y}{10}\) and \(y = \frac{-X + 3Y}{10}\). Substituting into \(y = 2x + 1\): \(\frac{-X + 3Y}{10} = 2\left(\frac{4X - 2Y}{10}\right) + 1\) Multiply by 10: \(-X + 3Y = 2(4X - 2Y) + 10\) \(-X + 3Y = 8X - 4Y + 10 \implies 9X - 7Y + 10 = 0\). Thus, the equation of the image line is \(9x - 7y + 10 = 0\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) M1: For setting up the matrix equation \(\mathbf{M}\mathbf{x} = \mathbf{x}\). A1: For obtaining both simultaneous equations. A1: For solving to show that the only solution is \((0, 0)\).
(b) M1: Substituting \(y=mx\) and \(Y=mX\) into the transformation equations. A1: Obtaining the quadratic equation in \(m\), e.g., \(2m^2 - m - 1 = 0\). M1: Factoring or solving the quadratic equation. A1: Finding the two correct gradients \(m = 1\) and \(m = -1/2\). A1: Correct equations of both lines.
(c) M1: Finding the inverse matrix \(\mathbf{M}^{-1}\). A1: Substituting \(x\) and \(y\) in terms of \(X\) and \(Y\) into the line equation. A1: Correct final equation (e.g., \(9x - 7y + 10 = 0\) or \(y = \frac{9}{7}x + \frac{10}{7}\)).
PastPaper.question 6 · Structured Questions
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The curve \(C\) has polar equation \(r = 2(1 - \cos \theta)\) for \(0 \le \theta \le \pi\).
(a) Sketch \(C\), showing clearly the coordinates of any points of intersection with the initial line and the line \( \theta = \frac{\pi}{2} \). [3]
(b) Find the area of the region enclosed by \(C\) and the line \( \theta = \frac{\pi}{2} \). [5]
(c) Find the maximum distance of a point on \(C\) from the pole, and state the value of \(\theta\) at which this occurs. [3]
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) The curve is a cardioid restricted to the upper half-plane since \(0 \le \theta \le \pi\). - At \(\theta = 0\), \(r = 0\) (the pole). - At \(\theta = \frac{\pi}{2}\), \(r = 2(1 - 0) = 2\). - At \(\theta = \pi\), \(r = 2(1 - (-1)) = 4\). The sketch is a cardioid-like arc starting at the pole, curving through \((2, \frac{\pi}{2})\), and ending at \((4, \pi)\).
(c) The distance from the pole is \(r = 2(1 - \cos \theta)\). Since \(-1 \le \cos \theta \le 1\), the maximum value of \(r\) occurs when \(\cos \theta = -1\), which is at \(\theta = \pi\). At \(\theta = \pi\), \(r = 2(1 - (-1)) = 4\).
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) B1: Starts at the pole with correct slope. B1: Passes through \((2, \frac{\pi}{2})\) and \((4, \pi)\). B1: Correct shape (smooth upper half cardioid) with no loops.
(b) M1: Use of correct area formula \(\frac{1}{2}\int r^2 \mathrm{d}\theta\) with limits \(0\) to \(\frac{\pi}{2}\). M1: Attempting to square \(1 - \cos \theta\). M1: Using double angle identity for \(\cos^2 \theta\). A1: Correct integration. A1: Correct exact value \(\frac{3̄\pi}{2} - 4\).
(c) M1: Recognizing that maximum distance corresponds to minimum of \(\cos \theta\). A1: Correct maximum distance of 4. A1: Correct value \(\theta = \pi\).
PastPaper.question 7 · Structured Questions
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The curve \(C\) has equation \(y = \frac{2x^2 + 3x - 2}{x^2 - 1}\).
(a) Find the equations of all asymptotes of \(C\). [3]
(b) Find the coordinates of any points of intersection of \(C\) with the coordinate axes. [3]
(c) Show that \(\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} < 0\) for all points on \(C\). [2]
(d) Sketch \(C\), showing clearly the asymptotes and the coordinates of the points of intersection with the coordinate axes. [3]
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) The denominator of \(y\) is \(x^2 - 1 = (x - 1)(x + 1)\). Setting the denominator to 0 gives \(x = 1\) and \(x = -1\). Since the numerator \(2x^2 + 3x - 2 = (2x - 1)(x + 2)\) has no common factors with the denominator, the vertical asymptotes are \(x = 1\) and \(x = -1\).
For the horizontal asymptote: \(\lim_{x \to \pm \infty} \frac{2x^2+3x-2}{x^2-1} = 2\). Thus, the horizontal asymptote is \(y = 2\).
(b) - y-intercept: set \(x = 0 \implies y = \frac{-2}{-1} = 2\). So the intercept is \((0, 2)\). - x-intercepts: set \(y = 0 \implies 2x^2 + 3x - 2 = 0 \implies (2x - 1)(x + 2) = 0\), which gives \(x = \frac{1}{2}\) or \(x = -2\). So the intercepts are \((\frac{1}{2}, 0)\) and \((-2, 0)\).
(c) Using the quotient rule: \(\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = \frac{(4x + 3)(x^2 - 1) - (2x^2 + 3x - 2)(2x)}{(x^2 - 1)^2}\) \(= \frac{(4x^3 - 4x + 3x^2 - 3) - (4x^3 + 6x^2 - 4x)}{(x^2 - 1)^2}\) \(= \frac{-3x^2 - 3}{(x^2 - 1)^2} = -\frac{3(x^2 + 1)}{(x^2 - 1)^2}\). Since \(3(x^2+1) > 0\) and \((x^2-1)^2 > 0\) for all \(x \neq \pm 1\), we have \(\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} < 0\) for all points on \(C\).
(d) To sketch \(C\): - Draw asymptotes \(x = -1\), \(x = 1\), and \(y = 2\). - Plot points \((0, 2)\), \((\frac{1}{2}, 0)\), and \((-2, 0)\). - Draw three branches of the curve showing decreasing behavior in each domain segment.
PastPaper.markingScheme
(a) B1: Identify both vertical asymptotes \(x = 1\) and \(x = -1\). M1: For attempting the limit as \(x \to \infty\). A1: Correct horizontal asymptote \(y = 2\).
(b) B1: Correct y-intercept \((0, 2)\). M1: Set numerator to 0 and solve. A1: Correct x-intercepts \((\frac{1}{2}, 0)\) and \((-2, 0)\).
(c) M1: Attempting differentiation using the quotient rule. A1: Correctly simplifying to obtain \(-\frac{3(x^2+1)}{(x^2-1)^2}\) and concluding.
(d) B1: All asymptotes correctly drawn and labeled. B1: Three branches correctly plotted with decreasing shape. B1: All three coordinate axis intercepts correctly located.
Paper 2: Further Pure Mathematics 2
Answer all questions. Show all necessary working clearly; no marks will be given for unsupported answers from a calculator.
8 PastPaper.question · 75 PastPaper.marks
PastPaper.question 1 · Structured
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Find the particular solution of the differential equation \[ \frac{d^2 y}{dx^2} + 4 \frac{dy}{dx} + 13 y = 169 x \] for which \( y = 0 \) and \(\frac{dy}{dx} = 0\) when \( x = 0 \).
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PastPaper.workedSolution
First, find the complementary function (CF) by solving the auxiliary equation: \[ m^2 + 4m + 13 = 0 \implies m = -2 \pm 3i \] Thus, the CF is: \[ y_c = e^{-2x} (A \cos 3x + B \sin 3x) \] Next, find the particular integral (PI) by trying a linear function: \[ y_p = px + q \implies y_p' = p, \ y_p'' = 0 \] Substituting into the differential equation: \[ 0 + 4p + 13(px + q) = 169x \] Comparing coefficients of \( x \): \[ 13p = 169 \implies p = 13 \] Comparing constant terms: \[ 4p + 13q = 0 \implies 52 + 13q = 0 \implies q = -4 \] So, the general solution is: \[ y = e^{-2x} (A \cos 3x + B \sin 3x) + 13x - 4 \] Apply initial condition \( y(0) = 0 \): \[ 0 = A - 4 \implies A = 4 \] Differentiate the general solution: \[ \frac{dy}{dx} = -2e^{-2x} (A \cos 3x + B \sin 3x) + e^{-2x} (-3A \sin 3x + 3B \cos 3x) + 13 \] Apply initial condition \( \frac{dy}{dx}(0) = 0 \): \[ 0 = -2A + 3B + 13 \] Since \( A = 4 \): \[ 0 = -8 + 3B + 13 \implies 3B = -5 \implies B = -\frac{5}{3} \] Thus, the particular solution is: \[ y = e^{-2x} \left(4 \cos 3x - \frac{5}{3} \sin 3x\right) + 13x - 4 \]
PastPaper.markingScheme
M1: Set up and solve auxiliary equation to find complex roots. A1: Correct complementary function. M1: Set up the correct form of the PI and substitute into the differential equation. A1: Correct particular integral \( y_p = 13x - 4 \). M1: Apply initial condition \( y(0) = 0 \) to the general solution. A1: Find \( A = 4 \). M1: Correctly differentiate the general solution and apply the second initial condition. A1: Find \( B = -\frac{5}{3} \). A1: State the final particular solution correctly.
PastPaper.question 2 · Structured
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The matrix \(\mathbf{A}\) is given by \[ \mathbf{A} = \begin{pmatrix} 2 & 1 & 1 \\ 0 & 3 & 2 \\ 0 & 0 & 4 \end{pmatrix} \] Find the eigenvalues of \(\mathbf{A}\) and find a corresponding set of eigenvectors of unit length.
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Since \(\mathbf{A}\) is upper triangular, its eigenvalues are the diagonal elements: \[ \lambda_1 = 2, \quad \lambda_2 = 3, \quad \lambda_3 = 4 \] To find the eigenvectors: For \( \lambda_1 = 2 \): \[ (\mathbf{A} - 2\mathbf{I})\mathbf{v} = \begin{pmatrix} 0 & 1 & 1 \\ 0 & 1 & 2 \\ 0 & 0 & 2 \end{pmatrix} \begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \\ z \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 0 \\ 0 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} \] This gives \( z = 0 \), \( y = 0 \), and \( x \) is free. Hence, a unit eigenvector is: \[ \mathbf{v}_1 = \begin{pmatrix} 1 \\ 0 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} \]
For \( \lambda_2 = 3 \): \[ (\mathbf{A} - 3\mathbf{I})\mathbf{v} = \begin{pmatrix} -1 & 1 & 1 \\ 0 & 0 & 2 \\ 0 & 0 & 1 \end{pmatrix} \begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \\ z \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 0 \\ 0 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} \] This gives \( z = 0 \) and \( x = y \). An eigenvector is \( \begin{pmatrix} 1 \\ 1 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} \). Normalising it to unit length: \[ \mathbf{v}_2 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} \begin{pmatrix} 1 \\ 1 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 1/\sqrt{2} \\ 1/\sqrt{2} \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} \]
For \( \lambda_3 = 4 \): \[ (\mathbf{A} - 4\mathbf{I})\mathbf{v} = \begin{pmatrix} -2 & 1 & 1 \\ 0 & -1 & 2 \\ 0 & 0 & 0 \end{pmatrix} \begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \\ z \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 0 \\ 0 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} \] This gives \( y = 2z \) and \( -2x + y + z = 0 \implies -2x + 3z = 0 \implies x = 1.5z \). Choosing \( z = 2 \), we have \( y = 4 \) and \( x = 3 \). Hence, an eigenvector is \( \begin{pmatrix} 3 \\ 4 \\ 2 \end{pmatrix} \). Normalising it to unit length (length is \(\sqrt{9+16+4} = \sqrt{29}\)): \[ \mathbf{v}_3 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{29}} \begin{pmatrix} 3 \\ 4 \\ 2 \end{pmatrix} = \begin{pmatrix} 3/\sqrt{29} \\ 4/\sqrt{29} \\ 2/\sqrt{29} \end{pmatrix} \]
PastPaper.markingScheme
B1: Identify the eigenvalues as 2, 3, 4. M1: Write down the characteristic system for \(\lambda = 2\). A1: Obtain the correct unit eigenvector \(\begin{pmatrix} 1 \\ 0 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix}\). M1: Write down the characteristic system for \(\lambda = 3\). A1: Obtain the correct unit eigenvector \(\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\begin{pmatrix} 1 \\ 1 \\ 0 \end{pmatrix}\). M1: Write down the characteristic system for \(\lambda = 4\). A1: Obtain a correct eigenvector for \(\lambda = 4\) (e.g., \(\begin{pmatrix} 3 \\ 4 \\ 2 \end{pmatrix}\)). A2: Normalise and state the correct unit eigenvector for \(\lambda = 4\).
PastPaper.question 3 · Structured
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Using differentiation, find the Maclaurin's series for \( f(x) = \ln(1 + \sin x) \) up to and including the term in \( x^3 \).
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PastPaper.workedSolution
Let \( f(x) = \ln(1 + \sin x) \). At \( x = 0 \): \( f(0) = \ln(1) = 0 \).
First derivative: \[ f'(x) = \frac{\cos x}{1 + \sin x} \] At \( x = 0 \): \( f'(0) = \frac{1}{1} = 1 \).
Third derivative: Rewriting \( f''(x) = -(1 + \sin x)^{-1} \): \[ f'''(x) = (1 + \sin x)^{-2} \cos x = \frac{\cos x}{(1 + \sin x)^2} \] At \( x = 0 \): \( f'''(0) = \frac{1}{1^2} = 1 \).
Substitute the values into the Maclaurin's series formula: \[ f(x) = f(0) + f'(0)x + \frac{f''(0)}{2!}x^2 + \frac{f'''(0)}{3!}x^3 + \dots \] \[ f(x) = 0 + 1x - \frac{1}{2}x^2 + \frac{1}{6}x^3 + \dots = x - \frac{1}{2}x^2 + \frac{1}{6}x^3 \]
PastPaper.markingScheme
M1: Correctly differentiate to find \( f'(x) \). A1: Show \( f'(0) = 1 \). M1: Correctly differentiate to find \( f''(x) \). A1: Simplify \( f''(x) \) to \( -\frac{1}{1 + \sin x} \) or equivalent. A1: Show \( f''(0) = -1 \). M1: Correctly differentiate to find \( f'''(x) \). A1: Show \( f'''(0) = 1 \). M1: Apply the Maclaurin formula with the calculated derivatives. A1: Obtain the correct expansion up to \( x^3 \).
PastPaper.question 4 · Structured
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Let \( I_n = \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} x^n \sin x \, dx \), for \( n \ge 0 \).
(a) Show that for \( n \ge 2 \), \[ I_n = n \left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right)^{n-1} - n(n-1)I_{n-2} \]
(b) Hence, find the exact value of \( I_3 \).
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PastPaper.workedSolution
(a) Apply integration by parts with \( u = x^n \) and \( dv = \sin x \, dx \): \[ du = n x^{n-1} \, dx, \quad v = -\cos x \] \[ I_n = \left[-x^n \cos x\right]_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} + n \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} x^{n-1} \cos x \, dx \] Since \( \cos(\frac{\pi}{2}) = 0 \) and \( x^n = 0 \) at \( x = 0 \) (for \( n \ge 2 \)), the boundary term is zero. Thus: \[ I_n = n \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} x^{n-1} \cos x \, dx \] Apply integration by parts again with \( u = x^{n-1} \) and \( dv = \cos x \, dx \): \[ du = (n-1)x^{n-2} \, dx, \quad v = \sin x \] \[ \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} x^{n-1} \cos x \, dx = \left[x^{n-1} \sin x\right]_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} - (n-1) \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} x^{n-2} \sin x \, dx \] At the upper limit \( x = \frac{\pi}{2} \), the term is \( \left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right)^{n-1} \), and at \( x = 0 \), it is 0. So: \[ \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} x^{n-1} \cos x \, dx = \left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right)^{n-1} - (n-1)I_{n-2} \] Substituting this back gives: \[ I_n = n \left[ \left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right)^{n-1} - (n-1)I_{n-2} \right] = n \left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right)^{n-1} - n(n-1)I_{n-2} \]
(b) For \( n = 3 \): \[ I_3 = 3 \left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right)^2 - 6 I_1 = \frac{3\pi^2}{4} - 6 I_1 \] We find \( I_1 \): \[ I_1 = \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} x \sin x \, dx = \left[-x \cos x\right]_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} + \int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} \cos x \, dx = 0 + \left[\sin x\right]_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}} = 1 \] So: \[ I_3 = \frac{3\pi^2}{4} - 6(1) = \frac{3\pi^2}{4} - 6 \]
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Part (a): M1: Apply integration by parts to \( I_n \). A1: Obtain the correct expression in terms of \( \int x^{n-1} \cos x \, dx \) with boundary terms vanishing. M1: Apply integration by parts a second time. A1: Correctly evaluate the boundary term \( \left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right)^{n-1} \). A1: Combine the results to complete the proof of the reduction formula.
Part (b): M1: Substitute \( n = 3 \) into the reduction formula. M1: Calculate \( I_1 \) correctly using integration by parts. A1: Find \( I_1 = 1 \). A1: State the final exact answer for \( I_3 \) correctly.
PastPaper.question 5 · Structured
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Solve the equation \[ 6\sinh x - \cosh x = 4 \] giving your answer in the form \(\ln a\), where \( a \) is a real number.
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Express \(\sinh x\) and \(\cosh x\) in terms of exponentials: \[ 6 \left(\frac{e^x - e^{-x}}{2}\right) - \left(\frac{e^x + e^{-x}}{2}\right) = 4 \] Multiply the entire equation by 2 to clear the denominators: \[ 6(e^x - e^{-x}) - (e^x + e^{-x}) = 8 \] Simplify the terms: \[ 6e^x - 6e^{-x} - e^x - e^{-x} = 8 \] \[ 5e^x - 7e^{-x} = 8 \] Multiply by \( e^x \) to form a quadratic equation: \[ 5e^{2x} - 8e^x - 7 = 0 \] Let \( u = e^x \). The equation becomes: \[ 5u^2 - 8u - 7 = 0 \] Solve using the quadratic formula: \[ u = \frac{8 \pm \sqrt{(-8)^2 - 4(5)(-7)}}{10} = \frac{8 \pm \sqrt{64 + 140}}{10} = \frac{8 \pm \sqrt{204}}{10} = \frac{4 \pm \sqrt{51}}{5} \] Since \( e^x > 0 \) for all real \( x \), we reject the negative root (since \( 4 - \sqrt{51} < 0 \)). Thus, we have: \[ e^x = \frac{4 + \sqrt{51}}{5} \] Take the natural logarithm of both sides: \[ x = \ln\left(\frac{4 + \sqrt{51}}{5}\right) \]
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M1: Express \(\sinh x\) and \(\cosh x\) in exponential form. A1: Write simplified linear combination of \(e^x\) and \(e^{-x}\). M1: Multiply by \(e^x\) to form a quadratic in \(e^x\). A1: Correct quadratic equation \( 5e^{2x} - 8e^x - 7 = 0 \). M1: Solve the quadratic equation correctly. A1: Obtain the roots \( \frac{4 \pm \sqrt{51}}{5} \). M1: Provide valid justification for rejecting the negative root. A2: Give the final exact answer in the required logarithmic form.
PastPaper.question 6 · Structured
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(a) Use de Moivre’s theorem to show that \[ \sin(5\theta) = 16\sin^5\theta - 20\sin^3\theta + 5\sin\theta \]
(b) Hence, find all the solutions of the equation \[ 16\sin^5\theta - 20\sin^3\theta + 5\sin\theta = 0 \] in the interval \( 0 \le \theta < \pi \).
(b) The equation is equivalent to: \[ \sin(5\theta) = 0 \] For \( 0 \le \theta < \pi \), we have \( 0 \le 5\theta < 5\pi \). Therefore, the solutions for \( 5\theta \) are: \[ 5\theta = 0, \pi, 2\pi, 3\pi, 4\pi \] Divide by 5: \[ \theta = 0, \frac{\pi}{5}, \frac{2\pi}{5}, \frac{3\pi}{5}, \frac{4\pi}{5} \]
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Part (a): M1: Set up de Moivre's equation for \( \sin(5\theta) \). A1: Correct binomial expansion. M1: Equate imaginary parts of both sides. A1: Correctly substitute \( \cos^2\theta = 1 - \sin^2\theta \). A1: Simplify and show the given identity clearly.
Part (b): M1: Recognize the equation is \( \sin(5\theta) = 0 \). M1: Find the correct range of \( 5\theta \). A1: List correct multiple angles. A1: State all five correct solutions for \( \theta \).
PastPaper.question 7 · Structured
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Find the general solution of the differential equation \[ x \frac{dy}{dx} - 3y = x^5 \cos x \] for \( x > 0 \).
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First, write the differential equation in standard linear form by dividing by \( x \): \[ \frac{dy}{dx} - \frac{3}{x}y = x^4 \cos x \] The integrating factor is: \[ I(x) = e^{\int -\frac{3}{x} \, dx} = e^{-3\ln x} = x^{-3} = \frac{1}{x^3} \] Multiply both sides of the standard form ODE by the integrating factor: \[ \frac{1}{x^3} \frac{dy}{dx} - \frac{3}{x^4}y = x \cos x \] This can be written as: \[ \frac{d}{dx} \left( \frac{y}{x^3} \right) = x \cos x \] Integrate both sides with respect to \( x \): \[ \frac{y}{x^3} = \int x \cos x \, dx \] Using integration by parts with \( u = x \) and \( dv = \cos x \, dx \): \[ \int x \cos x \, dx = x \sin x - \int \sin x \, dx = x \sin x + \cos x + C \] Therefore: \[ \frac{y}{x^3} = x \sin x + \cos x + C \] Multiply by \( x^3 \) to find the general solution: \[ y = x^4 \sin x + x^3 \cos x + C x^3 \]
PastPaper.markingScheme
M1: Write the differential equation in standard form. M1: Determine the correct integrating factor \( I(x) = x^{-3} \). A1: Multiply the ODE correctly by the integrating factor. M1: Rewrite the LHS as a single derivative \( \frac{d}{dx}(y x^{-3}) \). M1: Integrate the RHS using integration by parts. A1: Correct integration to get \( x \sin x + \cos x \). A1: Include constant of integration \( C \). A2: Solve explicitly for \( y \) to obtain the correct final general solution.
PastPaper.question 8 · Structured
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Use the substitution \( x = \sinh \theta \) to find the exact value of the definite integral \[ \int_{0}^{1} \frac{x^2}{\sqrt{1 + x^2}} \, dx \] Give your answer in the form \( A\sqrt{2} + B\ln(1 + \sqrt{2}) \), where \( A \) and \( B \) are rational constants.
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Let \( x = \sinh \theta \). Then \( dx = \cosh \theta \, d\theta \). The term in the denominator becomes: \[ \sqrt{1 + x^2} = \sqrt{1 + \sinh^2 \theta} = \cosh \theta \] Change the limits of integration: When \( x = 0 \), \( \theta = 0 \). When \( x = 1 \), \( \theta = \sinh^{-1}(1) = \ln(1 + \sqrt{2}) \). Let \( \alpha = \ln(1 + \sqrt{2}) \).
M1: Substitute \( x = \sinh\theta \) and correctly differentiate to find \( dx \). A1: Successfully substitute into the integral to obtain \( \int \sinh^2 \theta \, d\theta \). M1: Change limits correctly using the logarithmic definition of \( \sinh^{-1}(1) \). M1: Use hyperbolic double-angle identity to integrate. A1: Correct integration to \( \frac{1}{4}\sinh(2\theta) - \frac{1}{2}\theta \). M1: Use \( \sinh(2\theta) = 2\sinh\theta\cosh\theta \) to simplify evaluation. A1: Determine \( \cosh\alpha = \sqrt{2} \). A2: State final answer in the exact requested form.