An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the Nov 2023 (V1) Cambridge International A Level Mathematics - Additional (0606) paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from Cambridge.
Standard Single Section
Answer all questions. Show all necessary working clearly; no marks will be given for unsupported answers from a calculator. Non-exact numerical answers should be correct to 3 significant figures, or 1 decimal place for angles in degrees, unless specified.
13 Question · 80 marks
Question 1 · Short Response
3 marks
The vectors \(\mathbf{u} = 2\mathbf{i} + k\mathbf{j}\) and \(\mathbf{v} = (k-1)\mathbf{i} + 6\mathbf{j}\) are parallel. Find the possible values of the constant \(k\).
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Worked solution
Since the vectors are parallel, one is a scalar multiple of the other, which means the ratio of their components must be equal: \(\frac{2}{k-1} = \frac{k}{6}\). Cross-multiplying gives: \(12 = k(k-1)\) which simplifies to the quadratic equation: \(k^2 - k - 12 = 0\). Factoring the quadratic, we get: \((k-4)(k+3) = 0\). This gives the possible values of \(k\) as \(k = 4\) or \(k = -3\).
Marking scheme
M1: For setting up a correct relation representing the parallel vectors, e.g., \(\frac{2}{k-1} = \frac{k}{6}\). M1: For expanding and forming the quadratic equation \(k^2 - k - 12 = 0\). A1: For both correct values \(k = 4\) and \(k = -3\).
Question 2 · Short Response
3 marks
The polynomial \(p(x) = 2x^3 + ax^2 + bx - 6\) is divisible by \(x - 2\). When \(p(x)\) is divided by \(x + 1\), the remainder is \(-9\). Find the value of \(a\) and of \(b\).
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Worked solution
By the Factor Theorem, since \(x-2\) is a factor, we have \(p(2) = 0\): \(2(2)^3 + a(2)^2 + b(2) - 6 = 0 \implies 16 + 4a + 2b - 6 = 0 \implies 2a + b = -5\) (Equation 1). By the Remainder Theorem, since dividing by \(x+1\) gives a remainder of \(-9\), we have \(p(-1) = -9\): \(2(-1)^3 + a(-1)^2 + b(-1) - 6 = -9 \implies -2 + a - b - 6 = -9 \implies a - b = -1\) (Equation 2). Adding Equation 1 and Equation 2 gives \(3a = -6 \implies a = -2\). Substituting \(a = -2\) into Equation 2 gives \(-2 - b = -1 \implies b = -1\).
Marking scheme
M1: For applying the Factor Theorem with \(p(2) = 0\) to obtain a linear equation in \(a\) and \(b\) (e.g., \(2a + b = -5\)). M1: For applying the Remainder Theorem with \(p(-1) = -9\) to obtain a second linear equation in \(a\) and \(b\) (e.g., \(a - b = -1\)). A1: For solving the simultaneous equations to get both \(a = -2\) and \(b = -1\).
Question 3 · Short Response
3 marks
A sector of a circle has radius \(r\text{ cm}\) and angle \(\theta\) radians. The perimeter of the sector is \(30\text{ cm}\) and its area is \(50\text{ cm}^2\). Find the possible values of \(r\).
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Worked solution
The perimeter of the sector is given by \(P = 2r + r\theta = 30 \implies r\theta = 30 - 2r\). The area of the sector is given by \(A = \frac{1}{2}r^2\theta = 50\). Substituting the expression for \(r\theta\) into the area formula gives: \ \frac{1}{2}r(r\theta) = 50 \implies \frac{1}{2}r(30 - 2r) = 50 \implies 15r - r^2 = 50\). Rearranging this yields the quadratic equation: \(r^2 - 15r + 50 = 0\). Factoring the quadratic gives: \((r-5)(r-10) = 0\). Thus, the possible values of \(r\) are \(r = 5\) or \(r = 10\).
Marking scheme
M1: For using sector formulas to write the system of equations: \(2r + r\theta = 30\) and \(\frac{1}{2}r^2\theta = 50\). M1: For substituting one equation into the other to eliminate \(\theta\) and forming a quadratic equation in \(r\), e.g., \(r^2 - 15r + 50 = 0\). A1: For obtaining both correct values \(r = 5\) and \(r = 10\).
Question 4 · Short Response
3 marks
Find the equation of the normal to the curve \(y = \frac{2x - 1}{x + 3}\) at the point where \(x = -2\).
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Worked solution
First, find the \(y\)-coordinate of the point of contact: when \(x = -2\), \(y = \frac{2(-2) - 1}{-2 + 3} = -5\). Next, differentiate the curve using the quotient rule: \(\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{(x+3)(2) - (2x-1)(1)}{(x+3)^2} = \frac{2x+6-2x+1}{(x+3)^2} = \frac{7}{(x+3)^2}\). At \(x = -2\), the gradient of the tangent is \(m_{\text{tangent}} = \frac{7}{(-2+3)^2} = 7\). The gradient of the normal is the negative reciprocal of the tangent gradient: \(m_{\text{normal}} = -\frac{1}{7}\). Using the point-gradient formula with point \((-2, -5)\), the equation of the normal is: \(y - (-5) = -\frac{1}{7}(x - (-2)) \implies y + 5 = -\frac{1}{7}x - \frac{2}{7} \implies y = -\frac{1}{7}x - \frac{37}{7}\), which can also be written as \(x + 7y + 37 = 0\).
Marking scheme
M1: For differentiating \(y = \frac{2x - 1}{x + 3}\) using the quotient rule to find \(\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{7}{(x+3)^2}\). M1: For finding the \(y\)-coordinate \((-5)\), the tangent gradient \(7\), and the corresponding normal gradient \(-\frac{1}{7}\). A1: For a correct equation of the normal in any equivalent form, such as \(y = -\frac{1}{7}x - \frac{37}{7}\) or \(x + 7y + 37 = 0\).
Question 5 · Medium Structured
6 marks
Find the equation of the normal to the curve \( y = (3x - 2)\ln(2x + 1) \) at the point where \( x = 0 \). Give your answer in the form \( ax + by = 0 \), where \( a \) and \( b \) are integers.
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Worked solution
First, find the y-coordinate at \( x = 0 \): \( y = (3(0) - 2)\ln(2(0) + 1) = -2\ln(1) = 0 \). The point is \( (0, 0) \). Now differentiate \( y = (3x - 2)\ln(2x + 1) \) using the product rule: \( \frac{dy}{dx} = 3\ln(2x + 1) + (3x - 2)\frac{2}{2x + 1} \). Substitute \( x = 0 \) to find the gradient of the tangent: \( m_t = 3\ln(1) + (3(0) - 2)\frac{2}{2(0) + 1} = -4 \). The gradient of the normal, \( m_n \), is perpendicular to the tangent, so \( m_n = -\frac{1}{-4} = \frac{1}{4} \). The equation of the normal is \( y - 0 = \frac{1}{4}(x - 0) \), which simplifies to \( x - 4y = 0 \).
Marking scheme
M1: For attempt to differentiate using the product rule. A1: For correct derivative \( \frac{dy}{dx} = 3\ln(2x + 1) + \frac{2(3x - 2)}{2x + 1} \). M1: For substituting \( x = 0 \) to find the gradient of the tangent. M1: For finding the gradient of the normal. M1: For using the point \( (0, 0) \) and their normal gradient to form an equation of a straight line. A1: For correct final equation in the required form: \( x - 4y = 0 \) or any integer multiple (e.g., \( 4y - x = 0 \)).
Question 6 · Medium Structured
6 marks
The first three terms of an infinite geometric progression are \( k + 2 \), \( k - 4 \), and \( k - 8 \). (i) Find the value of \( k \). (ii) Find the sum to infinity of this progression.
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Worked solution
For a geometric progression, the common ratio \( r \) is constant: \( \frac{k - 4}{k + 2} = \frac{k - 8}{k - 4} \). Cross-multiplying gives \( (k - 4)^2 = (k + 2)(k - 8) \). Expanding both sides: \( k^2 - 8k + 16 = k^2 - 6k - 16 \). Simplifying, we get: \( -8k + 16 = -6k - 16 \implies 2k = 32 \implies k = 16 \). Using \( k = 16 \), the first term is \( a = 16 + 2 = 18 \) and the second term is \( 16 - 4 = 12 \). The common ratio is \( r = \frac{12}{18} = \frac{2}{3} \). Since \( |r| < 1 \), the sum to infinity exists and is given by \( S_{\infty} = \frac{a}{1 - r} = \frac{18}{1 - 2/3} = \frac{18}{1/3} = 54 \).
Marking scheme
M1: For setting up the ratio equation \( \frac{k - 4}{k + 2} = \frac{k - 8}{k - 4} \). M1: For correct algebraic expansion to a linear equation: \( k^2 - 8k + 16 = k^2 - 6k - 16 \). A1: For finding \( k = 16 \). M1: For calculating the first term \( a = 18 \) and the common ratio \( r = \frac{2}{3} \). M1: For using the sum to infinity formula \( S_{\infty} = \frac{a}{1 - r} \). A1: For \( 54 \).
Question 7 · Medium Structured
6 marks
A circle has equation \( x^2 + y^2 - 6x - 4y - 12 = 0 \). (i) Find the coordinates of the center and the radius of the circle. (ii) Find the equation of the tangent to the circle at the point \( (6, 6) \).
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Worked solution
To find the center and radius, we complete the square for the circle's equation: \( (x - 3)^2 - 9 + (y - 2)^2 - 4 - 12 = 0 \implies (x - 3)^2 + (y - 2)^2 = 25 \). Thus, the center is \( (3, 2) \) and the radius is \( \sqrt{25} = 5 \). The gradient of the radius from the center \( (3, 2) \) to the point \( (6, 6) \) is \( m_r = \frac{6 - 2}{6 - 3} = \frac{4}{3} \). The tangent is perpendicular to the radius, so its gradient is \( m_t = -\frac{3}{4} \). Using the point-slope form with \( (6, 6) \): \( y - 6 = -\frac{3}{4}(x - 6) \implies 4y - 24 = -3x + 18 \implies 3x + 4y = 42 \).
Marking scheme
M1: For attempting to complete the square. A1: For correct center \( (3, 2) \) and radius \( 5 \). M1: For finding the gradient of the radius \( \frac{4}{3} \). M1: For finding the gradient of the tangent \( -\frac{3}{4} \) (negative reciprocal). M1: For substituting \( (6, 6) \) and their tangent gradient into a line equation. A1: For correct tangent equation, e.g., \( 3x + 4y = 42 \) or equivalent.
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Worked solution
Use the identity \( \sin^2 \theta = 1 - \cos^2 \theta \) to rewrite the equation in terms of \( \cos \theta \): \( 3(1 - \cos^2 \theta) + 5\cos \theta - 5 = 0 \implies 3 - 3\cos^2 \theta + 5\cos \theta - 5 = 0 \implies 3\cos^2 \theta - 5\cos \theta + 2 = 0 \). Factorizing the quadratic equation: \( (3\cos\theta - 2)(\cos\theta - 1) = 0 \). This yields two cases: 1) \( \cos\theta = 1 \implies \theta = 0^{\circ}, 360^{\circ} \). 2) \( \cos\theta = \frac{2}{3} \implies \theta = \cos^{-1}(\frac{2}{3}) \approx 48.2^{\circ} \). The other solution in the range \( 0^{\circ} \le \theta \le 360^{\circ} \) is \( 360^{\circ} - 48.2^{\circ} = 311.8^{\circ} \). Thus, the complete set of solutions is \( \theta = 0^{\circ}, 48.2^{\circ}, 311.8^{\circ}, 360^{\circ} \).
Marking scheme
M1: For using the identity \( \sin^2 \theta = 1 - \cos^2 \theta \). A1: For forming the correct quadratic \( 3\cos^2 \theta - 5\cos \theta + 2 = 0 \). M1: For solving the quadratic to get \( \cos\theta = \frac{2}{3} \) and \( \cos\theta = 1 \). A1: For \( \theta = 0^{\circ}, 360^{\circ} \). A1: For \( 48.2^{\circ} \) (accept 48.19). A1: For \( 311.8^{\circ} \) (accept 311.81).
Question 9 · Medium Structured
6 marks
Solve the simultaneous equations: \( \log_3(2x - y) = 2 \) and \( 4^x \times 2^y = 2048 \).
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Worked solution
From the first equation, rewrite the logarithm in exponential form: \( 2x - y = 3^2 \implies 2x - y = 9 \). From the second equation, express both sides with base 2: \( (2^2)^x \times 2^y = 2^{11} \implies 2^{2x + y} = 2^{11} \implies 2x + y = 11 \). Now we have a system of linear equations: 1) \( 2x - y = 9 \), 2) \( 2x + y = 11 \). Adding the two equations: \( 4x = 20 \implies x = 5 \). Substituting \( x = 5 \) into the second equation: \( 2(5) + y = 11 \implies y = 1 \). Since \( 2(5) - 1 = 9 > 0 \), the logarithmic term is valid. Thus, the solution is \( x = 5, y = 1 \).
Marking scheme
M1: For converting \( \log_3(2x - y) = 2 \) to \( 2x - y = 9 \). M1: For expressing terms in \( 4^x \times 2^y = 2048 \) as powers of 2. A1: For obtaining \( 2x + y = 11 \). M1: For attempting to solve the simultaneous equations. A1: For \( x = 5 \). A1: For \( y = 1 \).
Question 10 · Long Multi-part
9.5 marks
A curve has the equation \(y = (2x - 5)\sqrt{2x+1}\) for \(x \ge -0.5\).
(i) Show that \(\frac{\text{d}y}{\text{d}x} = \frac{6x-3}{\sqrt{2x+1}}\). [4]
(ii) Find the exact coordinates of the stationary point of the curve. [2.5]
(iii) Find the equation of the normal to the curve at the point where \(x = 4\), giving your answer in the form \(ax+by=c\), where \(a\), \(b\) and \(c\) are integers. [3]
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Worked solution
(i) Using the product rule on \(y = (2x - 5)(2x+1)^{1/2}\): Let \(u = 2x - 5 \Rightarrow \frac{\text{d}u}{\text{d}x} = 2\) Let \(v = (2x+1)^{1/2} \Rightarrow \frac{\text{d}v}{\text{d}x} = \frac{1}{2}(2x+1)^{-1/2} \cdot 2 = (2x+1)^{-1/2}\)
(ii) At the stationary point, \(\frac{\text{d}y}{\text{d}x} = 0\): \(6x - 3 = 0 \Rightarrow x = 0.5\) Substitute \(x = 0.5\) into the equation of the curve: \(y = (2(0.5) - 5)\sqrt{2(0.5)+1} = -4\sqrt{2}\) So the exact coordinates are \((0.5, -4\sqrt{2})\).
(iii) At \(x = 4\): \(y = (2(4) - 5)\sqrt{2(4)+1} = 3(3) = 9\) Gradient of the tangent, \(m_T = \frac{6(4)-3}{\sqrt{2(4)+1}} = \frac{21}{3} = 7\) Gradient of the normal, \(m_N = -\frac{1}{7}\) Equation of the normal: \(y - 9 = -\frac{1}{7}(x - 4)\) \(7(y - 9) = -x + 4\) \(x + 7y = 67\)
Marking scheme
(i) M1: For applying product rule or quotient rule correctly. A1: For correct derivatives of individual components: \(2\) and \((2x+1)^{-1/2}\). M1: For putting over a common denominator and simplifying. A1: For fully correct proof showing all steps.
(ii) M1: For setting their derivative to 0 and solving for \(x\). A1: For \(x = 0.5\) or equivalent. A0.5: For exact \(y = -4\sqrt{2}\).
(iii) M1: For finding \(y = 9\) and substituting \(x = 4\) into \(\frac{\text{d}y}{\text{d}x}\) to find tangent gradient 7. M1: For using negative reciprocal to find normal gradient and applying straight line formula. A1: For correct final equation in the required form: \(x + 7y = 67\).
Question 11 · Long Multi-part
9.5 marks
An arithmetic progression has first term \(a\) and common difference \(d\). A geometric progression has first term \(a\) and common ratio \(r\). The 1st, 3rd and 7th terms of the arithmetic progression are equal to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd terms respectively of the geometric progression.
(i) Given that \(a \neq 0\) and \(d \neq 0\), show that \(a = 2d\). [4]
(ii) Given also that the sum of the first 12 terms of the arithmetic progression is 360, find the value of \(a\) and of \(d\). [2.5]
(iii) Find the sum of the first 6 terms of the geometric progression. [3]
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Worked solution
(i) Terms of AP: \(u_1 = a\), \(u_3 = a + 2d\), \(u_7 = a + 6d\). Terms of GP: \(v_1 = a\), \(v_2 = ar\), \(v_3 = ar^2\). Given \(u_1 = v_1 \Rightarrow a = a\). \(u_3 = v_2 \Rightarrow a + 2d = ar\) [Equation 1] \(u_7 = v_3 \Rightarrow a + 6d = ar^2\) [Equation 2] From Equation 1, \(r = \frac{a+2d}{a} = 1 + \frac{2d}{a}\). Substitute into Equation 2: \(a + 6d = a\left(1 + \frac{2d}{a}\right)^2\) \(a + 6d = a\left(1 + \frac{4d}{a} + \frac{4d^2}{a^2}\right)\) \(a + 6d = a + 4d + \frac{4d^2}{a}\) \(2d = \frac{4d^2}{a}\) Since \(d \neq 0\), we can divide by \(2d\): \(1 = \frac{2d}{a} \Rightarrow a = 2d\) as required.
(ii) The sum of the first 12 terms of the AP is: \(S_{12} = \frac{12}{2}(2a + 11d) = 360\) \(6(2a + 11d) = 360\) \(2a + 11d = 60\) Substitute \(a = 2d\): \(2(2d) + 11d = 60 \Rightarrow 15d = 60 \Rightarrow d = 4\) Then \(a = 2(4) = 8\).
(iii) For the GP: First term is \(a = 8\). Common ratio \(r = \frac{a+2d}{a} = \frac{8+2(4)}{8} = 2\). Sum of the first 6 terms of the GP: \(S_6 = \frac{a(r^6 - 1)}{r - 1} = \frac{8(2^6 - 1)}{2 - 1} = 8(64 - 1) = 8(63) = 504\)
Marking scheme
(i) M1: For writing down expressions for the terms of the AP and GP. M1: For equating ratios to eliminate \(r\), e.g., \(\frac{a+6d}{a+2d} = \frac{a+2d}{a}\). M1: For expanding and simplifying the algebraic expression. A1: For arriving correctly at \(a = 2d\).
(ii) M1: For using the sum formula of AP to set up an equation: \(6(2a+11d) = 360\). M1: For substituting \(a=2d\) (or equivalent) and solving for one variable. A0.5: For both \(a=8\) and \(d=4\).
(iii) M1: For finding the common ratio \(r = 2\). M1: For using the sum formula of a GP with \(n = 6\). A1: For correct final answer of 504.
(ii) Using the proven identity with \(\theta = 2x\), the equation becomes: \(2\text{cosec } 2x = 5 - \text{cosec } 2x\) \(3\text{cosec } 2x = 5\) \(\text{cosec } 2x = \frac{5}{3}\) \(\sin 2x = \frac{3}{5} = 0.6\)
Since \(0^\circ \le x \le 180^\circ\), the range for \(2x\) is \(0^\circ \le 2x \le 360^\circ\). Find the principal value: \(2x = \sin^{-1}(0.6) \approx 36.87^\circ\) Other angle in the range: \(2x = 180^\circ - 36.87^\circ = 143.13^\circ\)
Divide by 2 to solve for \(x\): \(x = 18.4^\circ\) and \(x = 71.6^\circ\) (to 1 d.p.)
Marking scheme
(i) M1: For combining fractions with a common denominator. M1: For expanding the numerator to \(\sin^2\theta + 1 + 2\cos\theta + \cos^2\theta\). M1: For using \(\sin^2\theta + \cos^2\theta = 1\) and factoring out 2. A0.5: For completing proof to get \(2\text{cosec }\theta\).
(ii) M1: For identifying and substituting the identity to get \(2\text{cosec } 2x = 5 - \text{cosec } 2x\). M1: For simplifying to \(\sin 2x = 0.6\). M1: For finding the two correct values of \(2x\) (36.87 and 143.13). M1: For dividing by 2 to find values of \(x\). A1: For \(x = 18.4^\circ\) (accept 18.43 or 18.4). A1: For \(x = 71.6^\circ\) (accept 71.57 or 71.6).
Question 13 · Long Multi-part
9.5 marks
A circle \(C\) has the equation \(x^2 + y^2 - 6x + 4y - 12 = 0\).
(i) Find the coordinates of the centre of \(C\) and the radius of \(C\). [3]
(ii) The line \(y = mx + 3\) is a tangent to the circle \(C\). Find the two possible exact values of \(m\). [6.5]
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Worked solution
(i) Rearrange the circle's equation by completing the square: \(x^2 - 6x + y^2 + 4y = 12\) \((x - 3)^2 - 9 + (y + 2)^2 - 4 = 12\) \((x - 3)^2 + (y + 2)^2 = 25\) So, the centre of \(C\) is \((3, -2)\) and the radius is \(\sqrt{25} = 5\).
(ii) Method: Using perpendicular distance The line is \(mx - y + 3 = 0\). The perpendicular distance from the centre \((3, -2)\) to this line must equal the radius, 5: \(\frac{|m(3) - (-2) + 3|}{\sqrt{m^2 + (-1)^2}} = 5\) \(\frac{|3m + 5|}{\sqrt{m^2 + 1}} = 5\) \(|3m + 5| = 5\sqrt{m^2 + 1}\) Square both sides: \((3m + 5)^2 = 25(m^2 + 1)\) \(9m^2 + 30m + 25 = 25m^2 + 25\) \(16m^2 - 30m = 0\) \(2m(8m - 15) = 0\) Therefore, \(m = 0\) or \(m = \frac{15}{8}\).
Marking scheme
(i) M1: For attempting to complete the square for both \(x\) and \(y\). A1: For correct centre \((3, -2)\). A1: For correct radius \(5\).
(ii) M1: For setting up the perpendicular distance equation or substituting \(y = mx + 3\) into the circle equation. M1: For simplifying the expression to a single quadratic equation in terms of \(x\) or clearing the square root. M1: For applying either squaring both sides or setting discriminant \(b^2 - 4ac = 0\). M1: For simplifying to a quadratic equation in terms of \(m\), e.g., \(16m^2 - 30m = 0\) or \(64m^2 - 120m = 0\). A1.5: For solving and obtaining both correct values: \(m = 0\) and \(m = \frac{15}{8}\) (or 1.875).
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