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Edexcel IALMathematicsGeneral Applications9 Marks

The value of a car, V, in pounds, can be modelled by the equation V = Ae^(-kt), where t is the age of the car in years, and A and k are positive constants. When the car is new, its value is £20 000. When the car is 5 years old, its value is £12 000.

  1. (a)Find the value of A and show that k = 1/5 ln(5/3).[3]
  2. (b)Find the age of the car when its value is £5000. Give your answer to one decimal place.[2]
  3. (c)(i)Find dV/dt in terms of A, k and t.[2]
  4. (c)(ii)Hence find the rate at which the value of the car is decreasing when t=10. Give your answer to the nearest pound per year.[2]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme. The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

  1. (a) M1: for using t=0, V=20000 to find A.
  2. (a) M1: for using t=5, V=12000 and A=20000 to set up an equation in k.
  3. (a) A1: for showing k = 1/5 ln(5/3).
  4. (b) M1: for setting V=5000 and solving for t.
  5. (b) A1: for correct t.
  6. (c)(i) M1: for differentiating V with respect to t.
  7. (c)(i) A1: for correct derivative.
  8. (c)(ii) M1: for substituting t=10 and their A and k into their dV/dt.
  9. (c)(ii) A1: for correct rate of decrease.

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About this question

Topic
General Applications, Edexcel IAL Mathematics. Structured question, 9 marks.

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