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2019 Paper 1 Q2
D: 1500.0 B: 1500.0

The curve \(C\) is given parametrically by the equations \(x = 3t^2\), \(y = 2t^3\). Show that the equation of the tangent to \(C\) at the point \((3p^2 , 2p^3)\) is \(y = px - p^3\). Find the point of intersection of the tangents to \(C\) at the distinct points \((3p^2 , 2p^3)\) and \((3q^2 , 2q^3)\). Hence show that, if these two tangents are perpendicular, their point of intersection is \((u^2 + 1 , -u)\), where \(u = p + q\). The curve \(\tilde{C}\) is given parametrically by the equations \(x = u^2 + 1\), \(y = -u\). Find the coordinates of the points that lie on both \(C\) and \(\tilde{C}\). Sketch \(C\) and \(\tilde{C}\) on the same axes.


Solution: \begin{align*} && \frac{\d y}{\d x} &= \frac{\frac{\d y}{\d t}}{\frac{\d x}{\d t}} \\ &&&= \frac{6t^2}{6t} = t \\ \Rightarrow && \frac{y-2p^3}{x - 3p^2} &= p \\ \Rightarrow && y &= px-3p^3+2p^3 \\ && y &= px - p^3 \end{align*} The two lines will be \begin{align*} && y &= px - p^3 \\ && y &= qx - q^3 \\ \Rightarrow && p^3-q^3 &= (p-q)x \\ \Rightarrow && x &= p^2+pq+q^2 \\ && y &= p(p^2+pq+q^2)-p^3 \\ &&&= pq(p+q) \\ && (x,y) &= (p^2+pq+q^2,pq(p+q)) \\ \end{align*} If the tangents are \(\perp\) then \(pq=-1\), so we have \begin{align*} && (x,y) &= (p^2+2pq+q^2-pq, pq(p+q)) \\ &&&= ((p+q)^2-1, -(p+q)) \\ &&&= (u^2-1, -u) \end{align*} We have \(x = y^2+1\) and \(\left ( \frac{x}{3} \right)^3 = \left ( \frac{y}{2}\right)^2 \Rightarrow y^2 = \frac{4}{27}x^3\) so \begin{align*} && 0 &= \frac{4}{27}x^3-x+1 \\ &&0&=4x^3-27x+27 \\ &&&= (x+3)(2x-3)^2 \end{align*} So we have the points \((x,y) = \left (\frac32, \pm\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\right)\)

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2019 Paper 1 Q6
D: 1500.0 B: 1518.2

In both parts of this question, \(x\) is real and \(0 < \theta < \pi\).

  1. By completing the square, find in terms of \(\theta\) the minimum value as \(x\) varies of $$9x^2 - 12x \cos \theta + 4.$$ Find also the maximum value as \(x\) varies of \(12x^2 \sin \theta - 9x^4\). Hence determine the values of \(x\) and \(\theta\) that satisfy the equation $$9x^4 + (9 - 12 \sin \theta)x^2 - 12x \cos \theta + 4 = 0.$$
  2. Sketch the curve $$y = \frac{x^2}{x - \theta},$$ where \(\theta\) is a constant. Deduce that either \(\frac{x^2}{x - \theta} \leq 0\) or \(\frac{x^2}{x - \theta} \geq 4\theta\). By considering the numerator and denominator separately, or otherwise, show that $$\frac{\sin^2 \theta \cos^2 x}{1 + \cos^2 \theta \sin^2 x} \leq 1.$$ Hence determine the values of \(x\) and \(\theta\) that satisfy the equation $$\frac{x^2}{4\theta(x - \theta)} = \frac{\sin^2 \theta \cos^2 x}{1 + \cos^2 \theta \sin^2 x}.$$


Solution:

  1. \(\,\) \begin{align*} && y &= 9x^2 - 12x \cos \theta + 4 \\ &&&= (3x-2\cos \theta)^2+4-4\cos^2 \theta \\ &&&= (3x-2\cos \theta)^2 + 4 \sin^2 \theta \end{align*} Therefore the minimum is \(4\sin^2 \theta\) when \(x = \frac23 \cos \theta\). \begin{align*} && y &= 12x^2 \sin \theta - 9x^4 \\ &&&=4\sin^2 \theta -(3x^2-2\sin\theta)^2 \end{align*} Therefore the maximum is \(4\sin^2 \theta\) when \(x^2 = \frac23\sin \theta\) Therefore \begin{align*} && 0 &= 9x^4 + (9 - 12 \sin \theta)x^2 - 12x \cos \theta + 4 \\ && \underbrace{-9x^4+12x^2\sin \theta}_{\leq 4\sin^2 \theta } &= \underbrace{9x^2 - 12x \cos \theta + 4 }_{\geq 4 \sin^2 \theta} \end{align*} Therefore the equality cases must be achieved in both cases, ie \(x = \frac23 \cos \theta\) and \(x^2 = \frac23 \sin \theta\) \begin{align*} && x^2 &= \frac49\cos^2 \theta \\ &&&= \frac49(1-\sin^2 \theta) \\ &&&= \frac49(1-\frac94 x^2) \\ \Rightarrow && 2x^2 &= \frac49 \\ \Rightarrow && x &= \pm \frac{\sqrt{2}}3\\ \Rightarrow && \cos \theta &=\pm \frac32 \frac{\sqrt{2}}3 \\ &&&= \pm \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} \\ \Rightarrow && \theta &= \frac{\pi}{4}, \frac{3\pi}{4} \\ \Rightarrow && (x, \theta) &= \left (\frac{\sqrt{2}}{3}, \frac{\pi}{4} \right), \left (-\frac{\sqrt{2}}{3}, \frac{3\pi}{4} \right) \end{align*}
  2. Sketching we obtain, noticing we can find the turning point by: \begin{align*} && \frac{x^2}{x-\theta} &= \lambda \\ \Leftrightarrow && x^2 - \lambda x +\theta \lambda &= 0 \\ \Leftrightarrow && 0 &\leq \Delta = \lambda^2 -4\lambda \theta \\ \Leftrightarrow && \lambda &\geq 4 \theta, \lambda \leq 0 \end{align*}
    TikZ diagram
    Notice that \(\sin^2 \theta \cos^2 x \leq 1\) and \(1 + cos^2 \theta \sin^2 x \geq 1\) and therefore we must have the inequality desired. \begin{align*} && \underbrace{\frac{x^2}{4\theta(x - \theta)}}_{\geq 1 \text{ or } \leq 0} &= \underbrace{\frac{\sin^2 \theta \cos^2 x}{1 + \cos^2 \theta \sin^2 x}}_{\in [0,1]} \\ \text{both}=0: && x = 0 &, \sin \theta = 0 \\ \text{both}=1: && x = 2\theta &, \sin^2 \theta = 1,\cos^2 x = 1 \\ && 1 &= \cos^2 2 \theta \\ &&&= (1-2 \sin^2 \theta)^2 \\ &&&= 1 \\ \Rightarrow && (x, \theta) &= \left(\frac{\pi}{2}, \pi\right) \end{align*}

2019 Paper 2 Q1
D: 1500.0 B: 1500.0

Let \(f(x) = (x-p)g(x)\), where g is a polynomial. Show that the tangent to the curve \(y = f(x)\) at the point with \(x = a\), where \(a \neq p\), passes through the point \((p, 0)\) if and only if \(g'(a) = 0\). The curve \(C\) has equation $$y = A(x - p)(x - q)(x - r),$$ where \(p\), \(q\) and \(r\) are constants with \(p < q < r\), and \(A\) is a non-zero constant.

  1. The tangent to \(C\) at the point with \(x = a\), where \(a \neq p\), passes through the point \((p, 0)\). Show that \(2a = q + r\) and find an expression for the gradient of this tangent in terms of \(A\), \(q\) and \(r\).
  2. The tangent to \(C\) at the point with \(x = c\), where \(c \neq r\), passes through the point \((r, 0)\). Show that this tangent is parallel to the tangent in part (i) if and only if the tangent to \(C\) at the point with \(x = q\) does not meet the curve again.


Solution: The tangent to the curve \(y = f(x)\) at \(x = a\) has the equation \(\frac{y-f(a)}{x-a} = f'(a) = g(a)+(a-p)g'(a)\). This passes through \((p,0)\) iff \begin{align*} && \frac{-f(a)}{p-a} &= g(a)+(a-p)g'(a) \\ \Leftrightarrow && -f(a) &= (p-a)g(a) -(a-p)^2g'(a) \\ \Leftrightarrow && -f(a) &= -f(a) -(a-p)^2g'(a) \\ \Leftrightarrow && 0 &= g'(a) \\ \end{align*}

  1. In this case \(g(x) = A(x-q)(x-r) = A(x^2-(q+r)x+qr)\) and so we must have that \(g'(a) = 0\), ie \(A(2a-(q+r)) = 0 \Rightarrow 2a = q+r\) The gradient is \(g(a) +(a-p)g'(a) = g(a) = A(a-q)(a-r)\)
  2. By the same reasoning, but with \(g(x) = A(x-p)(x-q)\) we have the gradient is \(A(c-p)(c-r)\). This is parallel iff \begin{align*} && (c-p)(c-r) &= (a-q)(a-r) \end{align*} The tangent at \(x = q\) is \(\frac{y-0}{x-q} = A(q-p)(q-r)\) or \( y = A(q-p)(q-r)(x-q)\)

2019 Paper 2 Q2
D: 1500.0 B: 1500.0

The function f satisfies \(f(0) = 0\) and \(f'(t) > 0\) for \(t > 0\). Show by means of a sketch that, for \(x > 0\), $$\int_0^x f(t) \, dt + \int_0^{f(x)} f^{-1}(y) \, dy = xf(x).$$

  1. The (real) function g is defined, for all \(t\), by $$(g(t))^3 + g(t) = t.$$ Prove that \(g(0) = 0\), and that \(g'(t) > 0\) for all \(t\). Evaluate \(\int_0^2 g(t) \, dt\).
  2. The (real) function h is defined, for all \(t\), by $$(h(t))^3 + h(t) = t + 2.$$ Evaluate \(\int_0^8 h(t) \, dt\).


Solution:

TikZ diagram
Notice the total area is \(xf(x)\) and it is made up of the sum of the two integrals.
  1. Suppose \((g(t))^3 + g(t) = t\). Notice that \((g(0))^3 + g(0) =0 \Rightarrow g(0)((g(0))^2 + 1) = 0 \Rightarrow g(0) = 0\). \begin{align*} && t &= (g(t))^3 + g(t) \\ \Rightarrow && 1 &= 3(g(t))^2 g'(t) + g'(t) \\ \Rightarrow && g'(t) &= \frac{1}{1 + 3(g(t))^2} > 0 \end{align*}
    TikZ diagram
    From our sketch, we can see we are interested in: \begin{align*} && \int_0^2 g(t) \d t &= 2 - \int_0^1 (x^3 + x) \d x \\ &&&= 2 - \frac14 - \frac12 = \frac54 \end{align*}
  2. \(\,\)
    TikZ diagram
    From our second sketch, we can see that: \begin{align*} && \int_0^8 h(t) \d t &= 16 - \int_1^2 (x^3+x-2) \d x \\ &&&= 16 - \left ( \frac{8}{4} + \frac{2^2}{2} - 2 \cdot 2 \right)+ \left ( \frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{2} - 2 \right) \\ &&&= \frac{59}{4} \end{align*}

2019 Paper 2 Q6
D: 1500.0 B: 1500.0

Note: You may assume that if the functions \(y_1(x)\) and \(y_2(x)\) both satisfy one of the differential equations in this question, then the curves \(y = y_1(x)\) and \(y = y_2(x)\) do not intersect.

  1. Find the solution of the differential equation $$\frac{dy}{dx} = y + x + 1$$ that has the form \(y = mx + c\), where \(m\) and \(c\) are constants. Let \(y_3(x)\) be the solution of this differential equation with \(y_3(0) = k\). Show that any stationary point on the curve \(y = y_3(x)\) lies on the line \(y = -x - 1\). Deduce that solution curves with \(k < -2\) cannot have any stationary points. Show further that any stationary point on the solution curve is a local minimum. Use the substitution \(Y = y + x\) to solve the differential equation, and sketch, on the same axes, the solutions with \(k = 0\), \(k = -2\) and \(k = -3\).
  2. Find the two solutions of the differential equation $$\frac{dy}{dx} = x^2 + y^2 - 2xy - 4x + 4y + 3$$ that have the form \(y = mx + c\). Let \(y_4(x)\) be the solution of this differential equation with \(y_4(0) = -2\). (Do not attempt to find this solution.) Show that any stationary point on the curve \(y = y_4(x)\) lies on one of two lines that you should identify. What can be said about the gradient of the curve at points between these lines? Sketch the curve \(y = y_4(x)\). You should include on your sketch the two straight line solutions and the two lines of stationary points.


Solution:

  1. Looking for solution of the form \(y = mx+c\) we find that \(m = mx+c+x+1 \Rightarrow m = -1, c = -2\). At stationary points \(\frac{\d y}{\d x} = 0 \Rightarrow y = -x-1\). If \(y_3(0)= k < -2\) then the solution curve lies below \(y = -x-2\) and therefore it cannot cross \(y = -x -2\) to reach \(y = -x-1\) for a stationary point. Suppose \(Y = y+x\) then \(\frac{\d Y}{\d x} = \frac{\d y}{\d x} + 1=Y+2 \Rightarrow Y = Ae^x-2 \Rightarrow y= (k+2)e^x-x-2\)
    TikZ diagram
  2. \(\,\) \begin{align*} && m &= x^2 + (mx+c)^2 -2x(mx+c) - 4x+4(mx+c) + 3 \\ &&0&= (m^2-2m+1)x^2+(2mc-2c-4+4m)x + (c^2+4c+3-m)\\ \Rightarrow && m &= 1 \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= c^2+4c+2 \\ \Rightarrow &&&= (c+2)^2-2 \\ \Rightarrow && c &= -2 \pm \sqrt{2} \end{align*} Therefore the lines are \(y = x -2-\sqrt{2}\) and \(y = x -2+\sqrt{2}\). Any stationary point will satisfy \(y' = 0\), ie \(0 = x^2+y^2-2xy-4x+4y+3 = (x-y)^2-4(x-y)+3 = (x-y-3)(x-y-1)\) therefore they must lie on \(y = x-1\) or \(y = x-3\). Any point between these lines must have negative gradient (since one factor is positive and one factor is negative).
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2019 Paper 3 Q1
D: 1500.0 B: 1500.0

The coordinates of a particle at time \(t\) are \(x\) and \(y\). For \(t \geq 0\), they satisfy the pair of coupled differential equations \[ \begin{cases} \dot{x} &= -x -ky \\ \dot{y} &= x - y \end{cases}\] where \(k\) is a constant. When \(t = 0\), \(x = 1\) and \(y = 0\).

  1. Let \(k = 1\). Find \(x\) and \(y\) in terms of \(t\) and sketch \(y\) as a function of \(t\). Sketch the path of the particle in the \(x\)-\(y\) plane, giving the coordinates of the point at which \(y\) is greatest and the coordinates of the point at which \(x\) is least.
  2. Instead, let \(k = 0\). Find \(x\) and \(y\) in terms of \(t\) and sketch the path of the particle in the \(x\)-\(y\) plane.


Solution:

  1. Let \(k = 1\), then \begin{align*} \dot{x} &= - x - y \\ \dot{y} &= x - y \\ \dot{x}-\dot{y} &= -2x \\ \ddot{x} &= -\dot{x}-\dot{y} \\ &= -\dot{x} - (\dot{x}+2x) \\ &= -2\dot{x}- 2x \\ \dot{x}+\dot{y} &= -2y \\ \ddot{y} &= \dot{x}-\dot{y} \\ &= -2y-2\dot{y} \end{align*} So we have an auxiliary equation for \(x\) and \(y\) which is \(\lambda^2 + 2 \lambda+2 = 0 \Rightarrow \lambda = -1 \pm i\). Therefore \(x = Ae^{-t} \cos t + B e^{-t} \sin t, y = Ce^{-t}\cos t + De^{-t} \sin t\). We also must have that, \(A = 1, C = 0\), so \(x = e^{-t} \cos t + Be^{-t} \sin t\) and \(y = De^{-t} \sin x\). \begin{align*} \dot{y} &= -De^{-t} \sin t +De^{-t} \cos t \\ &= e^{-t} \cos x + Be^{-t} \sin t- De^{-t} \sin t \\ \end{align*} therefore \(B = 0, D = 1\) and \(x = e^{-t} \cos t, y = e^{-t} \sin t\)
    TikZ diagram
    \begin{align*} y &= e^{-t} \sin t \\ \dot{y} &= -e^{-t} \sin t + e^{-t} \cos t \\ \dot{x} &= e^{-t} \cos t -e^{-t} \sin t \end{align*}
    TikZ diagram
  2. \begin{align*} \dot{x} = -x \\ \dot{y} = x-y \end{align*} So \(x = e^{-t}\). \(\dot{y} + y = e^{-t}\) so \(y = (t+B)e^{-t}\) and so \(y =te^{-t}\).
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2019 Paper 3 Q5
D: 1500.0 B: 1500.0

  1. Let $$f(x) = \frac{x}{\sqrt{x^2 + p}},$$ where \(p\) is a non-zero constant. Sketch the curve \(y = f(x)\) for \(x \geq 0\) in the case \(p > 0\).
  2. Let $$I = \int \frac{1}{(b^2 - y^2)\sqrt{c^2 - y^2}} \, dy,$$ where \(b\) and \(c\) are positive constants. Use the substitution \(y = \frac{cx}{\sqrt{x^2 + p}}\), where \(p\) is a suitably chosen constant, to show that $$I = \int \frac{1}{b^2 + (b^2 - c^2)x^2} \, dx.$$ Evaluate $$\int_1^{\sqrt{2}} \frac{1}{(3 - y^2)\sqrt{2 - y^2}} \, dy.$$ [ Note: \(\int \frac{1}{a^2 + x^2} \, dx = \frac{1}{a} \tan^{-1} \frac{x}{a} + \text{constant.}\) ] Hence evaluate $$\int_{\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}}^1 \frac{y}{(3y^2 - 1)\sqrt{2y^2 - 1}} \, dy.$$
  3. By means of a suitable substitution, evaluate $$\int_{\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}}^1 \frac{1}{(3y^2 - 1)\sqrt{2y^2 - 1}} \, dy.$$


Solution:

  1. \(\,\)
    TikZ diagram
  2. \(\,\) \begin{align*} && y &= \frac{cx}{\sqrt{x^2+p}} \\ && \d y &= \frac{c(x^2+p)-cx^2}{(x^2+p)^{3/2}} \d x \\ &&&= \frac{cp^2}{(x^2+p)^{3/2}} \d x\\ && I &= \int \frac1{(b^2-y^2)\sqrt{c^2-y^2}} \d y \\ &&&= \int \frac{1}{\left ( b^2 - \frac{c^2x^2}{x^2+p} \right) \sqrt{c^2 - \frac{c^2x^2}{x^2+p} }} \d y \\ &&&= \int \frac{(x^2+p)^{3/2}}{((b^2-c^2)x^2+pb^2)\sqrt{c^2p}}\frac{cp}{(x^2+p)^{3/2}} \d x \\ &&&= \int \frac{\sqrt{p}}{((b^2-c^2)x^2+pb^2)} \d x \\ p=1: &&&= \int \frac{1}{(b^2-c^2)x^2+b^2} \d x \end{align*} When \(b = \sqrt{3}, c = \sqrt{2}\) \begin{align*} && I_1 &= \int_1^{\sqrt{2}} \frac{1}{(3 - y^2)\sqrt{2 - y^2}} \d y\\ &&&= \int_{x =1 }^{x=\infty} \frac{1}{3+x^2} \d x \\ &&&= \left [ \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \tan^{-1} \frac{x}{\sqrt{3}} \right]_1^\infty \\ &&&= \frac{\pi}{2\sqrt{3}} - \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \frac{\pi}{6} \\ &&&= \frac{\pi}{3\sqrt{3}} \end{align*} \begin{align*} && I_2 &= \int_{\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}}^1 \frac{y}{(3y^2 - 1)\sqrt{2y^2 - 1}} \d y \\ x = \frac1y, \d x = -\frac1{y^2} \d y &&&= \int_{x=\sqrt{2}}^{x=1} \frac{x^2}{(3-x^2)\sqrt{2-x^2}}\cdot \left ( -\frac{1}{x^2} \right ) \d x \\ &&&= \int_1^{\sqrt{2}} \frac{1}{(3-x^2)\sqrt{2-x^2}} \d x \\ &&&= I_1 = \frac{\pi}{3\sqrt{3}} \end{align*}
  3. \(\,\) \begin{align*} && I_3 &= \int_{\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}}^1 \frac{1}{(3y^2 - 1)\sqrt{2y^2 - 1}} \d y \\ x = 1/y, \d x = -1/y^2 \d y &&&= \int_{x=1}^{x=\sqrt{2}} \frac{x}{(3-x^2)\sqrt{2-x^2}} \d x \\ u = x^2, \d u = 2x \d x &&&= \int_{u=1}^{u=2} \frac{\frac12}{(3-u)\sqrt{2-u}} \d u \\ v=2-u, \d v = -\d u &&&= \frac12\int_{v=0}^{v=1} \frac{1}{(1+v)\sqrt{v}} \d v \\ &&&=\left [\tan^{-1}\sqrt{v}\right]_0^1 \\ &&&= \frac{\pi}{4} \end{align*}

2019 Paper 3 Q7
D: 1500.0 B: 1500.0

The Devil's Curve is given by $$y^2(y^2 - b^2) = x^2(x^2 - a^2),$$ where \(a\) and \(b\) are positive constants.

  1. In the case \(a = b\), sketch the Devil's Curve.
  2. Now consider the case \(a = 2\) and \(b = \sqrt{5}\), and \(x \geq 0\), \(y \geq 0\).
    1. Show by considering a quadratic equation in \(x^2\) that either \(0 \leq y \leq 1\) or \(y \geq 2\).
    2. Describe the curve very close to and very far from the origin.
    3. Find the points at which the tangent to the curve is parallel to the \(x\)-axis and the point at which the tangent to the curve is parallel to the \(y\)-axis.
    Sketch the Devil's Curve in this case.
  3. Sketch the Devil's Curve in the case \(a = 2\) and \(b = \sqrt{5}\) again, but with \(-\infty < x < \infty\) and \(-\infty < y < \infty\).


Solution:

  1. Suppose \(a=b\), ie \begin{align*} && y^2(y^2-a^2) &= x^2(x^2-a^2) \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= x^4-y^4-a^2(x^2-y^2) \\ &&&= (x^2-y^2)(x^2+y^2-a^2) \end{align*} Therefore we have the lines \(y = \pm x\) and a circle radius \(a\).
    TikZ diagram
    1. Since \(x^4 - 4x^2 - y^2(y^2-5)= 0\), we must have \(0 \leq \Delta = 16 + 4y^2(y^2-5) \Rightarrow y^4-5y^2+4 = (y^2-4)(y^2-1) \geq 0\), therefore \(0 \leq y \leq 1\) or \(y \geq 2\) (since we are only considering positive values of \(y\)).
    2. When \((x, y) \approx 0\) the equation is more like \(4x^2 \approx 5y^2\) or \(y \approx \frac{2}{\sqrt{5}}x\) If \(|x|, |y|\) are very large, it is more like \(x^4 \approx y^4\), ie \(y \approx x\)
    3. \(\,\) \begin{align*} && (2y(y^2-5)+y^2(2y))y' &= 2x(x^2-4)+2x^3 \\ \Rightarrow && (4y^3-10y)y' &= 4x^3-8x \end{align*} Therefore the gradient is parallel to the \(x\)-axis when \(x = 0, x = \sqrt{2}\). We need \(x = 0, y \neq 0\), ie \(y = \sqrt{5}\), so \((0, \sqrt{5})\) and \((\sqrt{2}, 0)\) It is parallel to the \(y\)-axis when \(y = 0\) or \(y = \sqrt{\frac52}\), ie \((2, 0)\)
    TikZ diagram
  2. \(\,\)
    TikZ diagram

2018 Paper 1 Q1
D: 1516.0 B: 1516.0

The line \(y=a^2 x\) and the curve \(y=x(b-x)^2\), where \(0 < a < b\,\), intersect at the origin \(O\) and at points \(P\) and \(Q \). The \(x\)-coordinate of \(P\) is less than the \(x\)-coordinate of \(Q\). Find the coordinates of \(P\) and \(Q\), and sketch the line and the curve on the same axes. Show that the equation of the tangent to the curve at \(P\) is \[ y = a(3a-2b)x + 2a(b-a)^2 . \] This tangent meets the \(y\)-axis at \(R\). The area of the region between the curve and the line segment \(OP\) is denoted by \(S\). Show that \[ S= \frac1{12}(b-a)^3(3a+b)\,. \] The area of triangle \(OPR\) is denoted by \(T\). Show that \(S>\frac{1}{3}T\,\).


Solution:

TikZ diagram
\begin{align*} && a^2x &= x(b-x)^2 \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= x((b-x)^2-a^2) \\ &&&= x(b-a-x)(b+a-x)\\ && y &= x(b-x)^2 \\ \Rightarrow && y' &= (b-x)^2-2x(b-x) \\ P(b-a,a^2(b-a)): &&y' &= (b-(b-a))^2-2(b-a)(b-(b-a)) \\ &&&= a^2-2a(b-a) = a(3a-2b) \\ \Rightarrow && y &= a(3a-2b)(x-(b-a)) + a^2(b-a) \\ &&&= a(3a-2b)x + (b-a)(a^2-3a^2+2ba) \\ &&&= a(3a-2b)x + (b-a)2a(b-a) \\ &&&= a(3a-2b)x + 2a(b-a)^2 \\ \end{align*} Therefore the tangent at \(P\) is \(a(3a-2b)x + 2a(b-a)^2\) The area between the curve and \(OP\) is \begin{align*} &&S &= \int_0^{b-a} \left (x(b-x)^2-a^2x \right) \d x\\ &&&= \left [\frac{x^2}{2}b^2 - \frac{2x^3}{3}b +\frac{x^4}{4} - \frac{a^2x^2}{2}\right]_0^{b-a} \\ &&&= (b-a)^2 \tfrac12 (b^2-a^2) - \tfrac23(b-a)^3b + \tfrac14(b-a)^4 \\ &&&= \tfrac1{12}(b-a)^3(6(b+a)-8b+3(b-a)) \\ &&&= \tfrac1{12}(b-a)^3(b+3a) \end{align*} The area \([OPR] = T= \tfrac12 \cdot (b-a) \cdot 2a(b-a)^2 = a(b-a)^3\) Clearly \(S > \frac4{12}(b-a)^3a = \frac13T\)

2018 Paper 1 Q4
D: 1516.0 B: 1516.0

The function \(\f\) is defined by \[ \phantom{\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ (x>0, \ \ x\ne1)} \f(x) = \frac{1}{x\ln x} \left(1 - (\ln x)^2 \right)^2 \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ (x>0, \ \ x\ne1) \,.\] Show that, when \(( \ln x )^2 = 1\,\), both \(\f(x)=0\) and \(\f'(x)=0\,\). The function \(F\) is defined by \begin{align*} F(x) = \begin{cases} \displaystyle \int_{ 1/\text{e}}^x \f(t) \; \mathrm{d}t & \text{ for } 0 < x < 1\,, \\[7mm] \displaystyle \int_{\text{e}}^x \f(t) \; \mathrm{d}t & \text{ for } x > 1\,. \\ \end{cases} \end{align*}

  1. Find \(F(x)\) explicitly and hence show that \(F(x^{-1})=F(x)\,\).
  2. Sketch the curve with equation \(y=F(x)\,\). [You may assume that \(\dfrac{ (\ln x)^k} x\to 0\) as \(x\to\infty\) for any constant \(k\).]


Solution: When \((\ln x)^2 = 1\) we have \(f(x) = \frac{1}{x\ln x}(1 - 1^2)^2 = 0\) \(f'(x) = \frac{2(1 - (\ln x)^2) \cdot (-2 \ln x ) \cdot \frac1x \cdot (x \ln x) - (\ln x +1)(1-(\ln x)^2)^2}{(x\ln x)^2} = \frac{2\cdot 0 \cdot (-2 \ln x ) \cdot \frac1x \cdot (x \ln x) - (\ln x +1) \cdot 0}{(x\ln x)^2} = 0\)

  1. First consider \(0 < x < 1\), so \begin{align*} && F(x) &= \int_{1/e}^x f(t) \d t \\ &&&= \int_{1/e}^x \frac{1}{t\ln t} \left(1 - (\ln t)^2 \right)^2 \d t \\ u = \ln t, \d u = \frac1t \d t: &&&= \int_{u=-1}^{u=\ln x} \frac{1}{u}(1-u^2)^2 \d u \\ &&&= \int_{-1}^{\ln x} \left ( u^3 - 2u+\frac1u \right) \d u \\ &&&= \left [ \frac{u^4}{4} - u^2+ \ln |u| \right]_{-1}^{\ln x} \\ &&&= \frac{(\ln x)^4}{4} -(\ln x)^2 + \ln |\ln x| - \frac14+1 \end{align*} Now consider \(x > 1\) \begin{align*} && F(x) &= \int_{e}^x f(t) \d t \\ &&&= \int_{e}^x \frac{1}{t\ln t} \left(1 - (\ln t)^2 \right)^2 \d t \\ u = \ln t, \d u = \frac1t \d t: &&&= \int_{u=1}^{u=\ln x} \frac{1}{u}(1-u^2)^2 \d u \\ &&&= \int_{1}^{\ln x} \left ( u^3 - 2u+\frac1u \right) \d u \\ &&&= \left [ \frac{u^4}{4} - u^2+ \ln |u| \right]_{1}^{\ln x} \\ &&&= \frac{(\ln x)^4}{4} -(\ln x)^2 + \ln| \ln x| - \frac14+1 \end{align*} Notice that \begin{align*} F(x^{-1}) &= \frac{(\ln x^{-1})^4}{4} -(\ln x^{-1})^2 + \ln| \ln x^{-1}| - \frac14+1 \\ &= \frac{(-\ln x)^4}{4} -(-\ln x)^2 + \ln| -\ln x| - \frac14+1 \\ &= \frac{(\ln x)^4}{4} -(\ln x)^2 + \ln| \ln x| - \frac14+1 \\ &= F(x) \end{align*}
  2. \(\,\)
    TikZ diagram

2018 Paper 2 Q2
D: 1600.0 B: 1516.0

A function \(\f(x)\) is said to be concave for \(a< x < b\) if \[ \ t\,\f(x_1) +(1-t)\,\f(x_2) \le \f\big(tx_1+ (1-t)x_2\big) \, ,\] for \(a< x_1 < b\,\), \(a< x_2< b\) and \(0\le t \le 1\,\). Illustrate this definition by means of a sketch, showing the chord joining the points \(\big(x_1, \f(x_1)\big) \) and \(\big(x_2, \f(x_2)\big) \), in the case \(x_1 < x_2\) and \(\f(x_1)< \f(x_2)\,\). Explain why a function \(\f(x)\) satisfying \(\f''(x)<0\) for \(a< x < b\) is concave for \(a< x < b\,\).

  1. By choosing \(t\), \(x_1\) and \(x_2\) suitably, show that, if \(\f(x)\) is concave for \(a< x < b\,\), then \[ \f\Big(\frac{u+ v+w}3\Big) \ge \frac{ \f(u) +\f(v) +\f(w)}3 \, ,\] for \(a< u < b\,\), \(a< v < b\,\) and \(a< w < b\,\).
  2. Show that, if \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) are the angles of a triangle, then \[ \sin A +\sin B + \sin C \le \frac{3\sqrt3}2 \,. \]
  3. By considering \(\ln (\sin x)\), show that, if \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) are the angles of a triangle, then \[ \sin A \times \sin B \times \sin C \le \frac {3 \sqrt 3} 8 \,. \]


Solution:

TikZ diagram
Consider the function \(g(t) = f(tx_1 + (1-t)x_2) - tf(x_1) - (1-t)f(x_2)\), notice that \(g(0) = g(1) = 0\). Since \(g''(x) < 0\) over the whole interval, we must have two things: 1. \(g'(x)\) is increasing. 2. It \(g'(x) = 0\) can have at most one solution. Therefore \(g'(x)\) is initially \(0\), we have exactly one turning point. Therefore the function is initially decreasing and then increasing, therefore it is always negative and our inequality holds.
  1. \(\,\) \begin{align*} && f \left ( \frac{u+v+w}{3} \right) &= f \left ( \frac{2}{3}\cdot \frac{u+v}2+\frac{1}{3}w \right) \\ &&&\geq \frac23 f \left ( \frac{u+v}{2} \right) + \frac13 f(w) \\ &&&\geq \frac23 \left (\frac12 f(u) + \frac12 f(v) \right) + \frac13 f(w) \\ &&&= \frac{f(u)+f(v)+f(w)}{3} \end{align*}
  2. Notice that if \(A, B, C\) are angles in a triangle then they add to \(\pi\) \(0 < A,B,C < \pi\). We also have \(f(x) = \sin x \Rightarrow f''(x) = - \sin x < 0\) on this interval. Therefore \(\sin A + \sin B + \sin C \leq 3 \sin \frac{A+B+C}{3} = 3 \sin \frac{\pi}{3} = \frac{3\sqrt{3}}2\)
  3. Also notice that \begin{align*} && f(x) &= \ln ( \sin x) \\ \Rightarrow && f'(x) &= \frac{\cos x}{ \sin x} \\ && f''(x) &= -\textrm{cosec}^2 x < 0 \\ \\ \Rightarrow && \ln( \sin A) + \ln (\sin B) + \ln (\sin C) &\leq 3 \ln \left (\sin \left ( \frac{A + B+ C}{3} \right) \right) \\ &&&= 3 \ln \left ( \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2} \right) = \ln \frac{3\sqrt{3}}{8} \\ \Rightarrow && \sin A \sin B \sin C &\leq \frac{3\sqrt{3}}8 \end{align*}

2018 Paper 2 Q3
D: 1600.0 B: 1529.7

  1. Let \[ \f(x) = \frac 1 {1+\tan x} \] for \(0\le x < \frac12\pi\,\). Show that \(\f'(x)= -\dfrac{1}{1+\sin 2x}\) and hence find the range of \(\f'(x)\). Sketch the curve \(y=\f(x)\).
  2. The function \(\g(x)\) is continuous for \(-1\le x \le 1\,\). Show that the curve \(y=\g(x)\) has rotational symmetry of order 2 about the point \((a,b)\) on the curve if and only if \[ \g(x) + \g(2a-x) = 2b\,. \] Given that the curve \(y=\g(x)\) passes through the origin and has rotational symmetry of order 2 about the origin, write down the value of \[\displaystyle \int_{-1}^1 \g(x)\,\d x\,. \]
  3. Show that the curve \(y=\dfrac{1}{1+\tan^kx}\,\), where \(k\) is a positive constant and \(0 < x < \frac12\pi\,\), has rotational symmetry of order 2 about a certain point (which you should specify) and evaluate \[ \int_{\frac16\pi}^{\frac13\pi} \frac 1 {1+\tan^kx} \, \d x \,. \]


Solution:

  1. \(\,\) \begin{align*} && f(x) &= \frac1{1+\tan x} \\ && f'(x) &=-(1+\tan x)^{-2} \cdot \sec^2 x \\ &&&= - (\cos x+ \sin x)^{-2} \\ &&&= - (1 + 2 \sin x \cos x)^{-1} \\ &&&= - \frac{1}{1+\sin 2x} \end{align*} \(\sin 2x \in [0, 1]\) so \(1+\sin 2x \in [1,2]\) and \(f'(x) \in [-1, -\tfrac12]\)
    TikZ diagram
  2. \(\displaystyle \int_{-1}^1 g(x) \d x = 2g(0) \)
  3. Let \(g(x) = \frac{1}{1 + \tan^k x}\) then \(g(x)\) has rotational symmetry of order \(2\) about the point \((\frac{\pi}{4}, \frac12)\) which we can see since \begin{align*} g(x) + g(\tfrac12\pi - x) &= \frac{1}{1 + \tan^k x} + \frac{1}{1 + \tan^k(\tfrac12\pi - x)} \\ &= \frac{1}{1+\tan^k x} + \frac{1}{1+\cot^k x} \\ &= \frac{1}{1+\tan^k x} + \frac{\tan^k x}{\tan^k x + 1} \\ &= 1 = 2 \cdot \tfrac12 \end{align*} Therefore \[ \int_{\frac16\pi}^{\frac13\pi} \frac 1 {1+\tan^kx} \, \d x = \frac{\pi}{6} \cdot \frac12 = \frac{\pi}{12}\]

2018 Paper 2 Q8
D: 1600.0 B: 1484.0

  1. Use the substitution \(v= \sqrt y\) to solve the differential equation \[ \frac{\d y}{\d t} = \alpha y^{\frac12} - \beta y \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ (y\ge0, \ \ t\ge0) \,, \] where \(\alpha\) and \(\beta\) are positive constants. Find the non-constant solution \(y_1(x)\) that satisfies \(y_1(0)=0\,\).
  2. Solve the differential equation \[ \frac{\d y}{\d t} = \alpha y^{\frac23} - \beta y \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ (y\ge0, \ \ t\ge0) \,, \] where \(\alpha\) and \(\beta\) are positive constants. Find the non-constant solution \(y_2(x)\) that satisfies \(y_2(0)=0\,\).
  3. In the case \(\alpha=\beta\), sketch \(y_1(x)\) and \(y_2(x)\) on the same axes, indicating clearly which is \(y_1(x)\) and which is \(y_2(x)\). You should explain how you determined the positions of the curves relative to each other.


Solution:

  1. Suppose \(v = \sqrt{y} \Rightarrow v^2 = y \Rightarrow 2v v' = y'\) so \begin{align*} && 2vv' &= \alpha v-\beta v^2 \\ \Rightarrow && 2v' &= \alpha - \beta v \\ \Rightarrow && v' + \frac{\beta}{2} v &= \frac{\alpha}{2} \\ \Rightarrow && \frac{\d}{\d t} \left (e^{\beta t/2} v \right) &= \frac{\alpha}{2} e^{\beta t/2} \\ \Rightarrow && e^{\beta t/2} v &=C+ \frac{\alpha}{\beta}e^{\beta t /2} \\ \Rightarrow && v &= Ce^{-\beta t/2} + \frac{\alpha}{\beta} \\ \Rightarrow && \sqrt{y} &= Ce^{-\beta t/2} + \frac{\alpha}{\beta} \\ y(0) = 0: && 0 &= C+\frac{\alpha}{\beta} \\ \Rightarrow && \sqrt{y} &= \frac{\alpha}{\beta} \left (1-e^{-\beta t/2} \right) \\ \Rightarrow && y &= \frac{ \alpha^2}{\beta^2} \left (1-e^{-\beta t/2} \right)^2 \end{align*}
  2. Try \(v = y^{1/3} \Rightarrow v^3 = y \Rightarrow 3v^2 v' = y'\) so \begin{align*} && y' &= \alpha v^2 - \beta y \\ \Rightarrow && 3v^2v' &= \alpha v^2 - \beta v^3 \\ \Rightarrow && v' +\frac{\beta}{3} v &= \frac{\alpha}{3} \\ \Rightarrow && (v e^{\beta t/3})' &= \frac{\alpha}{3}e^{\beta t/3} \\ \Rightarrow && v &= Ce^{-\beta t/3} + \frac{\alpha}{\beta} \\ v(0) = 0: && v &= \frac{\alpha}{\beta} \left (1 - e^{-\beta t/3} \right) \\ \Rightarrow && y &= \frac{\alpha^3}{\beta^3} \left (1 - e^{-\beta t/3} \right) ^3 \end{align*}
  3. \(y_1 = (1-e^{-\beta t/2})^2, y_2 = (1-e^{-\beta t/3})^3\)
    TikZ diagram
    By considering the differential equation, notice that \(0 < y_i < 1\) so \(y^{1/2} > y^{2/3}\) and therefore \(y_1' > y_2'\) and so \(y_1\) increases faster.

2018 Paper 3 Q1
D: 1700.0 B: 1484.0

  1. The function \(\f\) is given by \[ \f(\beta)=\beta - \frac 1 \beta - \frac 1 {\beta^2} \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ (\beta\ne0) \,. \] Find the stationary point of the curve \(y=\f(\beta)\,\) and sketch the curve. Sketch also the curve \(y=\g(\beta)\,\), where \[ \g(\beta) = \beta + \frac 3 \beta - \frac 1 {\beta^2} \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ (\beta\ne0)\,. \]
  2. Let \(u\) and \(v\) be the roots of the equation \[ x^2 +\alpha x +\beta = 0 \,, \] where \(\beta\ne0\,\). Obtain expressions in terms of \(\alpha\) and \(\beta\) for \(\displaystyle u+v + \frac 1 {uv}\) and \( \displaystyle \frac 1 u + \frac 1 v + uv\,\).
  3. Given that \(\displaystyle u+v + \frac 1 {uv} = -1\,\), and that \(u\) and \(v\) are real, show that \(\displaystyle \frac 1 u+ \frac 1 v + {uv} \le -1\;\).
  4. Given instead that \(\displaystyle u+v + \frac 1 {uv} = 3 \;\), and that \(u\) and \(v\) are real, find the greatest value of \(\displaystyle \frac 1 u+ \frac 1v + {uv}\,\).


Solution:

  1. \begin{align*} && f(\beta) &= \beta - \frac1{\beta}-\frac1{\beta^2} \\ \Rightarrow && f'(\beta) &= 1 +\frac{1}{\beta^2}+\frac{2}{\beta^3} \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= f'(\beta) \\ &&&= 1 + \frac1{\beta^2} + \frac{2}{\beta^3} \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= \beta^3 + \beta + 2 \\ &&&= (\beta+1)(\beta^2-\beta+2) \end{align*} Therefore the only stationary point is at \(\beta = -1, f(-1) = -1\)
    TikZ diagram
    \begin{align*} && g(\beta) &= \beta + \frac3{\beta}-\frac1{\beta^2} \\ \Rightarrow && g'(\beta) &= 1 -\frac{3}{\beta^2}+\frac{2}{\beta^3} \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= f'(\beta) \\ &&&= 1 - \frac3{\beta^2} + \frac{2}{\beta^3} \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= \beta^3 - 3\beta + 2 \\ &&&= (\beta-1)^2(\beta+2) \end{align*} Therefore there are stationary points at \(\beta=1,f(1) = 3, \beta=-2, f(-2) = \frac14\)
    TikZ diagram
  2. Let \(u,v\) be the roots of \(x^2 + \alpha x + \beta = 0\), then since \((x-u)(x-v) = 0\) we must have \(\alpha = -(u+v), \beta = uv\). Therefore: \begin{align*} && u+v +\frac{1}{uv} &= -\alpha + \frac{1}{\beta} \\ && \frac1u+\frac1v + uv &= \frac{u+v}{uv} + uv \\ &&&= -\frac{\alpha}{\beta} + \beta \end{align*} Given \(u+v + \frac 1 {uv} = -1\), ie \(-\alpha + \frac{1}{\beta} = -1\). Since the roots are real, we must also have that \(\alpha^2 - 4\beta \geq 0\), so \begin{align*} && -\alpha + \frac1\beta &= -1 \\ \Rightarrow && \alpha &= 1 +\frac1\beta \\ \Rightarrow && -\frac{\alpha}{\beta}+\beta &= -\frac{1}{\beta} \l1+\frac1{\beta}\r + \beta \\ &&&=\beta - \frac{1}{\beta}-\frac{1}{\beta^2} \end{align*} So we want to maximise \(f(\beta)\) subject to \(\alpha ^2 - 4\beta \geq 0\) \begin{align*} && 0 &\leq \alpha^2 -4 \beta \\ &&&= \l 1 + \frac1{\beta} \r^2 - 4\beta \\ &&&= 1+ \frac2{\beta} + \frac1{\beta^2} - 4\beta \\ \Leftrightarrow && 0 &\leq -4\beta^3+\beta^2 + 2\beta + 1 \\ &&&=-(\beta-1)(4\beta^2+3\beta+1)\\ \Leftrightarrow && \beta &\leq 1 \end{align*} But we know \(f(\beta) \leq -1\) on \((-\infty,1]\) so we're done.
  3. Given that \(-\alpha + \frac{1}{\beta} = 3\) we have \begin{align*} && -\alpha + \frac1\beta &= 3 \\ \Rightarrow && \alpha &= -3 +\frac1\beta \\ \Rightarrow && -\frac{\alpha}{\beta}+\beta &= -\frac{1}{\beta} \l-3+\frac1{\beta}\r + \beta \\ &&&=\beta + \frac{3}{\beta}-\frac{1}{\beta^2} \end{align*} which we want to maximise, subject to: \begin{align*} && 0 &\leq \alpha^2 -4 \beta \\ &&&= \l -3 + \frac1{\beta} \r^2 - 4\beta \\ &&&= 9- \frac6{\beta} + \frac1{\beta^2} - 4\beta \\ \Leftrightarrow && 0 &\leq -4\beta^3+9\beta^2 - 6\beta + 1 \\ &&&=-(\beta-1)^2(4\beta-1)\\ \Leftrightarrow && \beta &\leq \frac14 \end{align*} Therefore the maximum will either be \(f(-2) = \frac14\) or \(f(\frac14) = -\frac{15}4\). Therefore the maximum is \(\frac14\)

2017 Paper 1 Q4
D: 1500.0 B: 1516.0

  1. Let \(r\) be a real number with \(\vert r \vert<1\) and let \[ S = \sum_{n=0}^\infty r^n\,. \] You may assume without proof that \(S = \displaystyle \frac{1}{1-r}\, \). Let \(p= 1 + r +r^2\). Sketch the graph of the function \(1+r+r^2\) and deduce that \(\frac{3}{4} \le p < 3\,\). Show that, if \(1 < p < 3\), then the value of \( p\) determines \(r\), and hence \(S\), uniquely. Show also that, if \(\frac{3}{4} < p < 1\), then there are two possible values of \(S\) and these values satisfy the equation \((3-p)S^2-3S+1=0\).
  2. Let \(r\) be a real number with \(\vert r \vert<1\) and let \[ T =\sum_{n=1}^\infty nr^{n-1}\,. \] You may assume without proof that \(T = \displaystyle \dfrac{1}{(1-r)^2}\,.\) Let \( q= 1+2r+3r^2\). Find the set of values of \( q\) that determine \(T\) uniquely. Find the set of values of \(q\) for which \(T\) has two possible values. Find also a quadratic equation, with coefficients depending on \( q\), that is satisfied by these two values.


Solution:

  1. \(\,\)
    TikZ diagram
    Notice that \(1+r+r^2\) ranges from \(\frac34\) to \(3\) over \((-1,1)\) therefore \(\frac34 \leq p < 3\) attaining its minimum but not its maximum. If \(p > 1\) we know we must be on the right branch and hence we can determine \(r\) and \(S\) uniquely. If \(\frac34 < p < 1\) then we must have two possible values for \(r\), satisfying \(r_i^2 + r+1 = p\) and so our two possible values for \(S_i = \frac{1}{1-r_i}\) or \(r_i = 1-\frac{1}{S_i}\) and so \begin{align*} && p &= \left ( 1 - \frac{1}{S} \right)^2 + 1 - \frac1S + 1 \\ \Rightarrow && pS^2 &= (S-1)^2 + S^2-S + S^2 \\ \Rightarrow && 0 &= (3-p)S^2 -3S + 1 \end{align*}
  2. \(\,\)
    TikZ diagram
    So \(\frac23 \leq q < 6\) and \(r\) and hence \(T\) is uniquely determined if \(2 \leq q < 6\). if \(\frac23