Skip to main content
O-LevelAdditional MathematicsDifferentiation and integration4037/12 · May/June 2019 · Q109 Marks

The diagram shows an open container in the shape of a cuboid of width x cm, length 4x cm and height h cm. The volume of the container is 800 cm³. [Figure 10.1]

  1. (i)Show that the external surface area, S cm², of the open container is such that S = 4x² + 2000/x.[4]
  2. (ii)Given that x can vary, find the stationary value of S and determine its nature.[5]

This question uses a diagram from the original paper, which isn't shown here. Open the full paper from the past papers archive to see it.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2019). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

  1. [B1] 800 = 4x²h
  2. [B1] h = 800/(4x²) oe or xh = 800/(4x) oe
  3. [M1] (S=)2hx+8xh+4x² oe Allow if h is substituted at this point
  4. [A1] S = 4x² + 2000/x Leading to AG, must have S = or surface area = at some point and no errors
  5. [B1] dS/dx = 8x - 2000/x² For correct differentiation
  6. [M1] When dS/dx = 0, x = ³√250 oe (6.30) For equating to zero and attempt to solve, must get as far as x = (b/a)^(1/3) must be using the form ax + b/x²
  7. [A1] For correct positive x
  8. [A1] S = 476 only
  9. [B1] d²S/dx² = 8 + 4000/x³ d²S/dx² > 0 or 24 so minimum For a correct convincing method, with enough detail to reach a correct conclusion of a minimum. Must be using x = ³√250 oe

Write your answer and get it marked

On Oracle Prep you can write or photograph your own answer and have it marked by AI against this mark scheme, with feedback on what you missed.

Sign up free →

About this question

Topic
Differentiation and integration, O-Level Additional Mathematics (syllabus 4037). Structured question, 9 marks.
Source
O-Level Additional Mathematics, May/June 2019 Paper 1 Variant 2, question 10.

Questions and mark schemes are from past examination papers and remain the copyright of the exam board. How Oracle Prep builds its content

Related Additional Mathematics questions

© 2026 Oracle Prep