Cambridge IGCSE · Thinka-original Practice Paper

2024 Cambridge IGCSE International Mathematics (0607) Practice Paper with Answers

Thinka Nov 2024 (V3) Cambridge International A Level-Style Mock — International Mathematics (0607)

120 marks135 mins2024
An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the Nov 2024 (V3) Cambridge International A Level International Mathematics (0607) paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Cambridge.

Extended Paper 4

Answer all questions. Graphic display calculators must be used where appropriate. All working must be shown clearly.
11 Question · 121 marks
Question 1 · Structured
11 marks
The cumulative frequency diagram for the heights of 200 plants is analyzed. Key statistical points on the diagram are:
- 10th percentile is 15 cm.
- Lower quartile is 24 cm.
- Median is 32 cm.
- Upper quartile is 41 cm.
- 90th percentile is 52 cm.

(a) Find the interquartile range of the heights of the plants. [2]
(b) Find the number of plants with a height of:
(i) more than 41 cm. [2]
(ii) between 15 cm and 52 cm. [3]
(c) Two plants are chosen at random. Find the probability that both have a height of 24 cm or less. [4]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) The interquartile range is the difference between the upper quartile and the lower quartile.
\(\text{IQR} = 41 - 24 = 17\text{ cm}\).

(b)(i) Since 41 cm is the upper quartile (75th percentile), \(25\%\) of the plants are taller than 41 cm.
Number of plants \(= 0.25 \times 200 = 50\).

(b)(ii) 15 cm is the 10th percentile and 52 cm is the 90th percentile.
The percentage of plants between these heights is \(90\% - 10\% = 80\%\).
Number of plants \(= 0.80 \times 200 = 160\).

(c) Since 24 cm is the lower quartile (25th percentile), \(25\%\) of the plants (which is 50 plants) have a height of 24 cm or less.
The probability that both of the chosen plants have a height of 24 cm or less (without replacement) is:
\(P = \frac{50}{200} \times \frac{49}{199} = \frac{1}{4} \times \frac{49}{199} = \frac{49}{796} \approx 0.0616\).

Marking scheme

(a) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(41 - 24\)
A1 for 17

(b)(i) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(0.25 \times 200\)
A1 for 50

(b)(ii) [3 marks]:
M1 for identifying the percentiles: \(90\%\) and \(10\%\)
M1 for \(0.80 \times 200\)
A1 for 160

(c) [4 marks]:
M1 for identifying 50 plants
M1 for \(P = \frac{50}{200} \times \frac{49}{199}\)
A1 for \(\frac{49}{796}\) or equivalent fraction (accept decimal \(0.0616\) or \(0.061557...\))
Question 2 · Structured
11 marks
An investment of $8000 is made in a bank.
(a) Account A pays compound interest at a rate of \(2.4\%\) per year. Calculate the total value of the investment after 5 years. Give your answer correct to the nearest dollar. [3]
(b) Account B pays compound interest at a rate of \(r\%\) per year. After 3 years, the value of the $8000 investment is $8741.81. Calculate the value of \(r\). [3]
(c) In a sale, the price of a laptop is reduced by \(15\%\). The sale price is $714. Calculate the original price of the laptop. [2]
(d) In a school of 450 students, \(\frac{2}{5}\) are boys. \(30\%\) of the boys and \(40\%\) of the girls play tennis. Calculate the total number of students who play tennis. [3]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) Total value \(= 8000 \times (1 + 0.024)^5 = 8000 \times (1.024)^5 \approx 9007.199\).
To the nearest dollar, this is $9007.

(b) Value after 3 years \(= 8000 \times (1 + \frac{r}{100})^3 = 8741.81\)
\((1 + \frac{r}{100})^3 = \frac{8741.81}{8000} \approx 1.09272625\)
\(1 + \frac{r}{100} = \sqrt[3]{1.09272625} \approx 1.03\)
\(\frac{r}{100} = 0.03 \implies r = 3\).

(c) Let \(x\) be the original price.
\(0.85x = 714\)
\(x = \frac{714}{0.85} = 840\).
The original price of the laptop was $840.

(d) Total number of boys \(= \frac{2}{5} \times 450 = 180\).
Total number of girls \(= 450 - 180 = 270\).
Boys playing tennis \(= 0.30 \times 180 = 54\).
Girls playing tennis \(= 0.40 \times 270 = 108\).
Total tennis players \(= 54 + 108 = 162\).

Marking scheme

(a) [3 marks]:
M1 for \(8000 \times 1.024^5\)
A1 for \(9007.199...\)
A1 for 9007 (nearest dollar)

(b) [3 marks]:
M1 for setting up \(8000 \times (1 + \frac{r}{100})^3 = 8741.81\)
M1 for finding \(\sqrt[3]{\frac{8741.81}{8000}}\)
A1 for 3 (or 3.00)

(c) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(714 / 0.85\)
A1 for 840

(d) [3 marks]:
M1 for finding 180 boys or 270 girls
M1 for \(0.3 \times 180 + 0.4 \times 270\)
A1 for 162
Question 3 · Structured
11 marks
The coordinates of two points are \(A(-3, 8)\) and \(B(5, -2)\).
(a) Find the midpoint of the line segment \(AB\). [2]
(b) Find the length of the line segment \(AB\). Give your answer in the form \(k\sqrt{41}\), where \(k\) is an integer. [3]
(c) The line segment \(AB\) is a diameter of a circle \(C\).
(i) Write down the coordinates of the centre of circle \(C\). [1]
(ii) Find the area of the circle \(C\). Give your answer in terms of \(\pi\). [3]
(d) A third point \(D\) has coordinates \((x, y)\). The midpoint of \(AD\) is \((1, 11)\). Find the coordinates of \(D\). [2]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) Midpoint \(= \left(\frac{-3 + 5}{2}, \frac{8 + (-2)}{2}\right) = \left(\frac{2}{2}, \frac{6}{2}\right) = (1, 3)\).

(b) Length \(AB = \sqrt{(5 - (-3))^2 + (-2 - 8)^2} = \sqrt{8^2 + (-10)^2} = \sqrt{64 + 100} = \sqrt{164}\).
Since \(164 = 4 \times 41\), we have:
\(AB = \sqrt{4 \times 41} = 2\sqrt{41}\).
Thus, \(k = 2\).

(c)(i) The centre of circle \(C\) is the midpoint of the diameter \(AB\), which is \((1, 3)\).

(c)(ii) The radius \(r\) is half the length of \(AB\):
\(r = \frac{2\sqrt{41}}{2} = \sqrt{41}\).
\(\text{Area} = \pi r^2 = \pi (\sqrt{41})^2 = 41\pi\).

(d) Let \(D\) have coordinates \((x, y)\).
\(\frac{-3 + x}{2} = 1 \implies -3 + x = 2 \implies x = 5\).
\(\frac{8 + y}{2} = 11 \implies 8 + y = 22 \implies y = 14\).
Therefore, the coordinates of \(D\) are \((5, 14)\).

Marking scheme

(a) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(\frac{-3+5}{2}\) or \(\frac{8-2}{2}\)
A1 for \((1, 3)\)

(b) [3 marks]:
M1 for \((5 - (-3))^2 + (-2 - 8)^2\)
A1 for \(\sqrt{164}\)
A1 for \(2\sqrt{41}\)

(c)(i) [1 mark]:
B1 for \((1, 3)\) (or follow through from part (a))

(c)(ii) [3 marks]:
M1 for \(r = \frac{\text{their (b)}}{2}\)
M1 for \(\text{Area} = \pi \times r^2\)
A1 for \(41\pi\)

(d) [2 marks]:
M1 for setting up \(\frac{-3+x}{2} = 1\) or \(\frac{8+y}{2} = 11\)
A1 for \((5, 14)\)
Question 4 · Structured
11 marks
A function is defined as \(f(x) = x^3 - 4x^2 - x + 5\).
(a) Find the \(y\)-intercept of the graph of \(y = f(x)\). [1]
(b) Find the coordinates of the local maximum point. Give your coordinates correct to 3 significant figures. [3]
(c) Find the coordinates of the local minimum point. Give your coordinates correct to 3 significant figures. [3]
(d) Find the three \(x\)-intercepts of the graph. Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures. [3]
(e) Find the largest solution to the equation \(f(x) = 2x - 1\). Give your answer correct to 3 significant figures. [1]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) When \(x = 0\), \(f(0) = 5\). The \(y\)-intercept is \((0, 5)\).

(b) Using the GDC's local maximum finder:
\(x \approx -0.120\), \(y \approx 5.06\).
Coordinates are \((-0.120, 5.06)\).

(c) Using the GDC's local minimum finder:
\(x \approx 2.79\), \(y \approx -7.21\).
Coordinates are \((2.79, -7.21)\).

(d) Setting \(f(x) = 0\) and finding the roots using the GDC:
\(x \approx -1.09\), \(x \approx 1.16\), \(x \approx 3.93\).

(e) Solving \(x^3 - 4x^2 - x + 5 = 2x - 1\) is equivalent to solving \(x^3 - 4x^2 - 3x + 6 = 0\).
Using the GDC polynomial root finder, the largest solution is \(x \approx 4.38\) (accept \(4.37\)).

Marking scheme

(a) [1 mark]:
B1 for \((0, 5)\)

(b) [3 marks]:
M1 for using derivative or GDC maximum tool
A1 for \(x \approx -0.120\)
A1 for \(y \approx 5.06\)

(c) [3 marks]:
M1 for using derivative or GDC minimum tool
A1 for \(x \approx 2.79\)
A1 for \(y \approx -7.21\)

(d) [3 marks]:
B1 for each correct root: \(-1.09\), \(1.16\), and \(3.93\) (each rounded to 3 s.f.)

(e) [1 mark]:
B1 for \(4.38\) (or \(4.37\))
Question 5 · Structured
11 marks
Triangle \(T\) has vertices at \(A(1, 1)\), \(B(3, 1)\), and \(C(1, 4)\).
(a) Triangle \(T\) is mapped onto triangle \(U\) by a reflection in the line \(y = -x\). Find the coordinates of the vertices of triangle \(U\). [3]
(b) Triangle \(T\) is mapped onto triangle \(V\) by a rotation of \(90^\circ\) clockwise about the point \( (0, 2) \). Find the coordinates of the vertices of triangle \(V\). [3]
(c) Triangle \(T\) is mapped onto triangle \(W\) by an enlargement, scale factor \(-2\), centre \( (2, 2) \). Find the coordinates of the vertices of triangle \(W\). [3]
(d) Describe fully the single transformation that maps the triangle with vertices \( (1, 1), (3, 1), (1, 4) \) onto a triangle with vertices \( (2, 1), (6, 1), (2, 4) \). [2]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) The mapping rule for reflection in the line \(y = -x\) is \((x, y) \to (-y, -x)\).
Applying this to the vertices of \(T\):
\(A(1, 1) \to (-1, -1)\)
\(B(3, 1) \to (-1, -3)\)
\(C(1, 4) \to (-4, -1)\)
So the vertices of \(U\) are \((-1, -1), (-1, -3), (-4, -1)\).

(b) Rotating \(90^\circ\) clockwise about the centre \((0, 2)\):
Subtract the centre: \((x, y) \to (x, y - 2)\).
Rotate \(90^\circ\) clockwise: \((X, Y) \to (Y, -X) \implies (y - 2, -x)\).
Add the centre back: \((y - 2, 2 - x)\).
Applying this to \(T\):
\(A(1, 1) \to (1 - 2, 2 - 1) = (-1, 1)\)
\(B(3, 1) \to (1 - 2, 2 - 3) = (-1, -1)\)
\(C(1, 4) \to (4 - 2, 2 - 1) = (2, 1)\)
So the vertices of \(V\) are \((-1, 1), (-1, -1), (2, 1)\).

(c) Enlarging by factor \(-2\) with centre \((2, 2)\):
New coordinates are \((2 - 2(x - 2), 2 - 2(y - 2)) = (6 - 2x, 6 - 2y)\).
Applying this to \(T\):
\(A(1, 1) \to (6 - 2, 6 - 2) = (4, 4)\)
\(B(3, 1) \to (6 - 6, 6 - 2) = (0, 4)\)
\(C(1, 4) \to (6 - 2, 6 - 8) = (4, -2)\)
So the vertices of \(W\) are \((4, 4), (0, 4), (4, -2)\).

(d) In the transformation from \((1, 1), (3, 1), (1, 4)\) to \((2, 1), (6, 1), (2, 4)\), the \(y\)-coordinates remain unchanged, while the \(x\)-coordinates are multiplied by 2.
This is a stretch with:
- stretch factor 2,
- invariant line \(y\)-axis (or the line \(x = 0\)).

Marking scheme

(a) [3 marks]:
B1 for each correct vertex: \((-1, -1)\), \((-1, -3)\), \((-4, -1)\)

(b) [3 marks]:
B1 for each correct vertex: \((-1, 1)\), \((-1, -1)\), \((2, 1)\)

(c) [3 marks]:
B1 for each correct vertex: \((4, 4)\), \((0, 4)\), \((4, -2)\)

(d) [2 marks]:
B1 for 'Stretch'
B1 for 'factor 2, invariant line \(y\)-axis' (or \(x = 0\))
Question 6 · Structured
11 marks
The functions \(f(x)\) and \(g(x)\) are defined as:
\(f(x) = \frac{2x + 1}{x - 3}\), \(x \ne 3\)
\(g(x) = 3x - 5\)

(a) Find \(g(f(4))\). [2]
(b) Find \(f^{-1}(x)\). [3]
(c) Find \(f(f(x))\) in its simplest form. [3]
(d) Solve \(g(x) = f(x)\). Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures. [3]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) First find \(f(4)\):
\(f(4) = \frac{2(4) + 1}{4 - 3} = \frac{9}{1} = 9\).
Then substitute into \(g(x)\):
\(g(9) = 3(9) - 5 = 22\).

(b) Let \(y = \frac{2x + 1}{x - 3}\).
Multiply by \(x - 3\):
\(y(x - 3) = 2x + 1 \implies yx - 3y = 2x + 1\).
Rearrange to isolate \(x\):
\(yx - 2x = 3y + 1 \implies x(y - 2) = 3y + 1\).
\(x = \frac{3y + 1}{y - 2}\).
Thus, \(f^{-1}(x) = \frac{3x + 1}{x - 2}\).

(c) Substitute \(f(x)\) into itself:
\(f(f(x)) = f\left(\frac{2x + 1}{x - 3}\right) = \frac{2\left(\frac{2x+1}{x-3}\right) + 1}{\frac{2x+1}{x-3} - 3}\).
Multiply numerator and denominator by \(x - 3\):
\(f(f(x)) = \frac{2(2x+1) + (x-3)}{(2x+1) - 3(x-3)} = \frac{4x + 2 + x - 3}{2x + 1 - 3x + 9} = \frac{5x - 1}{10 - x}\).

(d) Equate \(g(x)\) and \(f(x)\):
\(3x - 5 = \frac{2x + 1}{x - 3}\).
Multiply by \(x - 3\):
\((3x - 5)(x - 3) = 2x + 1 \implies 3x^2 - 14x + 15 = 2x + 1\).
Rearrange to standard form:
\(3x^2 - 16x + 14 = 0\).
Using the quadratic formula:
\(x = \frac{16 \pm \sqrt{(-16)^2 - 4(3)(14)}}{6} = \frac{16 \pm \sqrt{256 - 168}}{6} = \frac{16 \pm \sqrt{88}}{6}\).
\(x_1 \approx 4.23\) and \(x_2 \approx 1.10\).

Marking scheme

(a) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(f(4) = 9\)
A1 for 22

(b) [3 marks]:
M1 for expanding \(y(x-3) = 2x+1\) or \(x(y-3) = 2y+1\)
M1 for factorising \(x\) (or \(y\)) to obtain \(x(y-2) = 3y+1\) or equivalent
A1 for \(\frac{3x + 1}{x - 2}\)

(c) [3 marks]:
M1 for writing \(\frac{2(\frac{2x+1}{x-3}) + 1}{\frac{2x+1}{x-3} - 3}\)
M1 for clearing the denominators of the fractions
A1 for \(\frac{5x - 1}{10 - x}\)

(d) [3 marks]:
M1 for simplifying to \(3x^2 - 16x + 14 = 0\)
M1 for substituting correctly into the quadratic formula or using the GDC equation solver
A1 for both \(1.10\) and \(4.23\) (correct to 3 s.f.)
Question 7 · Structured
11 marks
Three sequences have the following terms:
Sequence A: \(3, 7, 11, 15, 19, \dots\)
Sequence B: \(2, 9, 20, 35, 54, \dots\)
Sequence C: \(24, 12, 6, 3, 1.5, \dots\)

(a) Find the \(n\)-th term of:
(i) Sequence A. [2]
(ii) Sequence B. [3]
(iii) Sequence C. [2]
(b) The \(n\)-th term of Sequence D is \(n^3 - 2n^2 + 5\).
(i) Find the 5th term of Sequence D. [2]
(ii) Show that 149 is a term in Sequence D and find the value of \(n\) for this term. [2]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a)(i) This is an arithmetic sequence with first term \(a = 3\) and common difference \(d = 4\).
\(n\)-th term \(= 3 + 4(n-1) = 4n - 1\).

(a)(ii) Analyzing Sequence B:
First differences: \(7, 11, 15, 19\)
Second differences: \(4, 4, 4\)
Since the second difference is constant, it is a quadratic sequence in the form \(an^2 + bn + c\) where \(a = \frac{4}{2} = 2\).
Subtract \(2n^2\) from the terms of Sequence B:
\(n=1: 2 - 2(1)^2 = 0\)
\(n=2: 9 - 2(2)^2 = 1\)
\(n=3: 20 - 2(3)^2 = 2\)
\(n=4: 35 - 2(4)^2 = 3\)
This remaining sequence is \(0, 1, 2, 3, \dots\), which has the linear formula \(n - 1\).
Thus, the \(n\)-th term of Sequence B is \(2n^2 + n - 1\).

(a)(iii) This is a geometric sequence with first term \(a = 24\) and common ratio \(r = 0.5\).
\(n\)-th term \(= 24 \times 0.5^{n-1}\) (or \(3 \times 2^{4-n}\)).

(b)(i) Substitute \(n = 5\) into \(n^3 - 2n^2 + 5\):
\(5^3 - 2(5^2) + 5 = 125 - 50 + 5 = 80\).

(b)(ii) Set \(n^3 - 2n^2 + 5 = 149\):
\(n^3 - 2n^2 - 144 = 0\).
Testing positive integer values of \(n\):
If \(n = 6\):
\(6^3 - 2(6^2) - 144 = 216 - 72 - 144 = 0\).
Thus, 149 is indeed the 6th term.

Marking scheme

(a)(i) [2 marks]:
M1 for identifying a common difference of 4
A1 for \(4n - 1\)

(a)(ii) [3 marks]:
M1 for identifying that the quadratic coefficient is \(2\) (i.e. \(2n^2\))
M1 for subtracting \(2n^2\) to find the remaining linear sequence \(n - 1\)
A1 for \(2n^2 + n - 1\)

(a)(iii) [2 marks]:
M1 for identifying the common ratio \(r = 0.5\) (or \(\frac{1}{2}\))
A1 for \(24 \times 0.5^{n-1}\) or equivalent

(b)(i) [2 marks]:
M1 for substituting \(n = 5\) into the given formula
A1 for 80

(b)(ii) [2 marks]:
M1 for setting up the equation \(n^3 - 2n^2 - 144 = 0\)
A1 for showing \(n = 6\) is the correct integer solution
Question 8 · Structured
11 marks
(a) Solve the simultaneous equations:
\(y = x^2 - 4x + 3\)
\(y = 2x - 2\)
Show your working clearly. [5]

(b) Solve the equation:
\(\frac{5}{x+2} + \frac{3}{x-1} = 2\)
Show your working clearly. Give your answers correct to 3 significant figures. [6]
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

(a) Substitute the second equation into the first:
\(2x - 2 = x^2 - 4x + 3\).
Rearrange into quadratic form:
\(x^2 - 6x + 5 = 0\).
Factorising this quadratic equation:
\((x - 1)(x - 5) = 0\).
So, \(x = 1\) or \(x = 5\).
Find the corresponding \(y\)-values:
If \(x = 1\), \(y = 2(1) - 2 = 0\).
If \(x = 5\), \(y = 2(5) - 2 = 8\).
The solutions are \((1, 0)\) and \((5, 8)\).

(b) Multiply the entire equation by the common denominator \((x + 2)(x - 1)\):
\(5(x - 1) + 3(x + 2) = 2(x + 2)(x - 1)\).
Expand both sides:
\(5x - 5 + 3x + 6 = 2(x^2 + x - 2)\)
\(8x + 1 = 2x^2 + 2x - 4\).
Rearrange into standard quadratic form:
\(2x^2 - 6x - 5 = 0\).
Apply the quadratic formula:
\(x = \frac{-(-6) \pm \sqrt{(-6)^2 - 4(2)(-5)}}{2(2)}\)
\(x = \frac{6 \pm \sqrt{36 + 40}}{4} = \frac{6 \pm \sqrt{76}}{4}\).
\(x \approx 3.68\) or \(x \approx -0.679\).

Marking scheme

(a) [5 marks]:
M1 for setting \(x^2 - 4x + 3 = 2x - 2\)
M1 for simplifying to \(x^2 - 6x + 5 = 0\)
M1 for factoring to \((x - 1)(x - 5) = 0\) or using quadratic formula
A1 for finding \(x = 1\) and \(x = 5\)
A1 for coordinates \((1, 0)\) and \((5, 8)\)

(b) [6 marks]:
M1 for multiplying to clear denominators: \(5(x-1) + 3(x+2) = 2(x+2)(x-1)\)
M1 for expanding LHS to \(8x + 1\)
M1 for expanding RHS to \(2x^2 + 2x - 4\)
M1 for rearranging to \(2x^2 - 6x - 5 = 0\)
A1 for correct application of quadratic formula \(\frac{6 \pm \sqrt{76}}{4}\)
A1 for the values \(-0.679\) and \(3.68\) (both correct to 3 s.f.)
Question 9 · Structured
11 marks
The grouped frequency table shows the times, \(t\) minutes, taken by 120 students to complete a puzzle.

| Time (\(t\) mins) | Frequency |
|---|---|
| \(0 < t \le 10\) | 12 |
| \(10 < t \le 20\) | 28 |
| \(20 < t \le 30\) | 38 |
| \(30 < t \le 40\) | 22 |
| \(40 < t \le 50\) | 15 |
| \(50 < t \le 60\) | 5 |

(a) (i) Calculate an estimate of the mean time taken.
(ii) Find the class interval that contains the median time.

(b) A cumulative frequency diagram is constructed for the completion times of these 120 students. Using the cumulative frequency curve, the following estimates are made:
- 10th percentile is 9.0 minutes.
- 25th percentile (lower quartile) is 16.5 minutes.
- 50th percentile (median) is 25.0 minutes.
- 75th percentile (upper quartile) is 34.5 minutes.
- 90th percentile is 44.0 minutes.

Use these estimates to find:
(i) the interquartile range of the times,
(ii) the number of students who completed the puzzle in 16.5 minutes or less,
(iii) the number of students who took more than 44.0 minutes to complete the puzzle.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

\(\textbf{Part (a)(i)}\):
To find the estimate of the mean, we find the mid-interval values (\(x\)) for each class:
- For \(0 < t \le 10\), midpoint \(x = 5\)
- For \(10 < t \le 20\), midpoint \(x = 15\)
- For \(20 < t \le 30\), midpoint \(x = 25\)
- For \(30 < t \le 40\), midpoint \(x = 35\)
- For \(40 < t \le 50\), midpoint \(x = 45\)
- For \(50 < t \le 60\), midpoint \(x = 55\)

Next, we calculate the sum of the products of midpoints and frequencies (\(\sum f x\)):
\(\sum f x = (5 \times 12) + (15 \times 28) + (25 \times 38) + (35 \times 22) + (45 \times 15) + (55 \times 5)\)
\(\sum f x = 60 + 420 + 950 + 770 + 675 + 275 = 3150\)

The estimate of the mean is:
\(\text{Mean} = \frac{\sum f x}{\sum f} = \frac{3150}{120} = 26.25\) minutes.

\(\textbf{Part (a)(ii)}\):
The median is the value at the 50th percentile, which corresponds to the \(\frac{120}{2}\)th = 60th student.
We find the cumulative frequencies:
- For \(t \le 10\): 12
- For \(t \le 20\): \(12 + 28 = 40\)
- For \(t \le 30\): \(40 + 38 = 78\)
Since 60 lies between 40 and 78, the median lies in the interval \(20 < t \le 30\).

\(\textbf{Part (b)(i)}\):
The interquartile range (IQR) is:
\(\text{IQR} = \text{Upper Quartile} - \text{Lower Quartile}\)
\(\text{IQR} = 34.5 - 16.5 = 18\) minutes.

\(\textbf{Part (b)(ii)}\):
The time of 16.5 minutes corresponds to the 25th percentile (lower quartile).
The number of students who completed in 16.5 minutes or less is:
\(25\% \times 120 = 0.25 \times 120 = 30\).

\(\textbf{Part (b)(iii)}\):
The time of 44.0 minutes corresponds to the 90th percentile.
The percentage of students taking more than 44.0 minutes is \(100\% - 90\% = 10\%\).
The number of students is:
\(10\% \times 120 = 0.10 \times 120 = 12\).

Marking scheme

\(\textbf{Part (a)(i)}\) [4 marks]:
M1 for finding mid-interval values of at least four intervals.
M1 for calculating \(\sum f x\) with their mid-intervals (at least 4 correct products shown).
A1 for \(\sum f x = 3150\).
A1 for 26.25 (or \(26\frac{1}{4}\)).

\(\textbf{Part (a)(ii)}\) [1 mark]:
B1 for \(20 < t \le 30\).

\(\textbf{Part (b)(i)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(34.5 - 16.5\).
A1 for 18.

\(\textbf{Part (b)(ii)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(\frac{25}{100} \times 120\) or identifying 30th value.
A1 for 30.

\(\textbf{Part (b)(iii)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for \((1 - 0.90) \times 120\) or identifying 108th value.
A1 for 12.
Question 10 · Structured
11 marks
The function \(f(x) = x^3 - 3x^2 - 9x + 15\) is defined for all real numbers \(x\).

(a) (i) Find the coordinates of the local maximum of the curve \(y = f(x)\).
(ii) Find the coordinates of the local minimum of the curve \(y = f(x)\).
(iii) Find the three \(x\)-intercepts of the graph of \(y = f(x)\), giving your answers to 3 significant figures.

(b) Let \(g(x) = 2x + 3\).
(i) Find the \(x\)-coordinates of the points of intersection of the graphs of \(y = f(x)\) and \(y = g(x)\). Give your answers to 3 significant figures.
(ii) Solve the inequality \(f(x) > g(x)\). Give your answer using inequality signs and 3 significant figures.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

\(\textbf{Part (a)(i)}\):
Using a graphic display calculator to find the local maximum, or by differentiation:
\(f'(x) = 3x^2 - 6x - 9 = 0 \Rightarrow 3(x-3)(x+1) = 0\).
The local maximum occurs at \(x = -1\).
The y-coordinate is \(f(-1) = (-1)^3 - 3(-1)^2 - 9(-1) + 15 = -1 - 3 + 9 + 15 = 20\).
So, the local maximum is \((-1, 20)\).

\(\textbf{Part (a)(ii)}\):
The local minimum occurs at \(x = 3\).
The y-coordinate is \(f(3) = (3)^3 - 3(3)^2 - 9(3) + 15 = 27 - 27 - 27 + 15 = -12\).
So, the local minimum is \((3, -12)\).

\(\textbf{Part (a)(iii)}\):
Using the root-finding function on the GDC for \(x^3 - 3x^2 - 9x + 15 = 0\):
- First root: \(x \approx -2.62\)
- Second root: \(x \approx 1.34\)
- Third root: \(x \approx 4.28\)

\(\textbf{Part (b)(i)}\):
To find the intersection of \(y = f(x)\) and \(y = g(x)\), we find the roots of:
\(x^3 - 3x^2 - 9x + 15 = 2x + 3 \Rightarrow x^3 - 3x^2 - 11x + 12 = 0\).
Using a GDC to find the intersections:
- \(x \approx -2.71\)
- \(x \approx 0.929\)
- \(x \approx 4.78\)

\(\textbf{Part (b)(ii)}\):
The inequality \(f(x) > g(x)\) is satisfied where the cubic curve lies above the straight line.
By observing the intersection points on the GDC:
- For \(x < -2.71\), \(f(x) < g(x)\).
- For \(-2.71 < x < 0.929\), the curve is above the line, so \(f(x) > g(x)\).
- For \(0.929 < x < 4.78\), the curve is below the line, so \(f(x) < g(x)\).
- For \(x > 4.78\), the curve is above the line, so \(f(x) > g(x)\).

Thus, the solution is \(-2.71 < x < 0.929\) or \(x > 4.78\).

Marking scheme

\(\textbf{Part (a)(i)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(x = -1\) or \(y = 20\) seen.
A1 for \((-1, 20)\).

\(\textbf{Part (a)(ii)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(x = 3\) or \(y = -12\) seen.
A1 for \((3, -12)\).

\(\textbf{Part (a)(iii)}\) [3 marks]:
B1 for \(-2.62\).
B1 for \(1.34\).
B1 for \(4.28\).
(Accept alternative rounding: e.g. -2.619, 1.337, 4.282).

\(\textbf{Part (b)(i)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for setting \(x^3 - 3x^2 - 9x + 15 = 2x + 3\).
A1 for \(-2.71, 0.929, 4.78\).

\(\textbf{Part (b)(ii)}\) [2 marks]:
B1 for \(-2.71 < x < 0.929\).
B1 for \(x > 4.78\).
Question 11 · Structured
11 marks
Three ports, \(A\), \(B\), and \(C\), are situated such that \(B\) is on a bearing of \(055^\circ\) from \(A\). The distance \(AB = 12.0\text{ km}\). The port \(C\) is on a bearing of \(135^\circ\) from \(B\), and the distance \(BC = 18.5\text{ km}\).

(a) Show that angle \(ABC = 100^\circ\).

(b) Calculate the distance \(AC\), giving your answer to 3 significant figures.

(c) Calculate the bearing of \(C\) from \(A\), giving your answer to 1 decimal place.

(d) Calculate the area of triangle \(ABC\), giving your answer to 3 significant figures.
Show answer & marking scheme

Worked solution

\(\textbf{Part (a)}\):
Let North be represented by a vertical line at each port.
- The bearing of \(B\) from \(A\) is \(055^\circ\).
- Using alternate angles, the angle of the line \(AB\) with the South line at \(B\) is \(55^\circ\).
- The bearing of \(C\) from \(B\) is \(135^\circ\). The angle of \(BC\) with the South line at \(B\) is \(180^\circ - 135^\circ = 45^\circ\) (to the east of South).
- Thus, the total angle \(\angle ABC = 55^\circ + 45^\circ = 100^\circ\).

\(\textbf{Part (b)}\):
Using the Cosine Rule on triangle \(ABC\):
\(AC^2 = AB^2 + BC^2 - 2 \cdot AB \cdot BC \cdot \cos(\angle ABC)\)
\(AC^2 = 12.0^2 + 18.5^2 - 2 \cdot 12.0 \cdot 18.5 \cdot \cos(100^\circ)\)
\(AC^2 = 144 + 342.25 - 444 \cdot (-0.173648)\)
\(AC^2 = 486.25 + 77.100\)
\(AC^2 = 563.350\)
\(AC = \sqrt{563.350} \approx 23.735\text{ km}\).
To 3 significant figures, \(AC = 23.7\text{ km}\).

\(\textbf{Part (c)}\):
Using the Sine Rule to find angle \(\angle BAC\):
\(\frac{\sin(\angle BAC)}{BC} = \frac{\sin(\angle ABC)}{AC}\)
\(\sin(\angle BAC) = \frac{18.5 \cdot \sin(100^\circ)}{23.735}\)
\(\sin(\angle BAC) \approx \frac{18.5 \cdot 0.984808}{23.735} \approx 0.767597\)
\(\angle BAC = \sin^{-1}(0.767597) \approx 50.14^\circ\).

Since \(C\) lies to the east of the line \(AB\), the bearing of \(C\) from \(A\) is:
\(\text{Bearing} = 55^\circ + 50.14^\circ = 105.14^\circ\).
To 1 decimal place, the bearing is \(105.1^\circ\).

\(\textbf{Part (d)}\):
The area of triangle \(ABC\) is given by:
\(\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \cdot AB \cdot BC \cdot \sin(\angle ABC)\)
\(\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \cdot 12.0 \cdot 18.5 \cdot \sin(100^\circ)\)
\(\text{Area} = 111 \cdot \sin(100^\circ) \approx 111 \cdot 0.984808 = 109.31\text{ km}^2\).
To 3 significant figures, the area is \(109\text{ km}^2\).

Marking scheme

\(\textbf{Part (a)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(180^\circ - 135^\circ = 45^\circ\) or alternate angle \(55^\circ\) identified.
A1 for a complete logical proof showing \(55^\circ + 45^\circ = 100^\circ\).

\(\textbf{Part (b)}\) [3 marks]:
M1 for substituting correctly into the Cosine Rule: \(12.0^2 + 18.5^2 - 2(12.0)(18.5)\cos(100^\circ)\).
A1 for \(AC^2 \approx 563.35\).
A1 for 23.7 (accept 23.73 to 23.74).

\(\textbf{Part (c)}\) [4 marks]:
M1 for substituting correctly into the Sine Rule: \(\frac{\sin(\angle BAC)}{18.5} = \frac{\sin(100^\circ)}{\text{their } AC}\).
A1 for \(\angle BAC \approx 50.1^\circ\) (accept 50.14).
M1 for adding \(55^\circ\) to their \(\angle BAC\).
A1 for 105.1 (accept 105.14).

\(\textbf{Part (d)}\) [2 marks]:
M1 for \(\frac{1}{2} \times 12.0 \times 18.5 \times \sin(100^\circ)\).
A1 for 109 (accept 109.3).

Wondering how well you actually know this?

Thinka is an AI practice app for DSE students — unlimited questions, instant auto-marking, and detailed step-by-step solutions. 100,000+ students use it to confirm they actually know it, not just think they do.

Want more questions like this? Practice unlimited on Thinka — instant answers included.

Start Practising Free