Skip to main content
O-LevelAdditional MathematicsFactors of polynomials4037/12 · May/June 2011 · Q56 Marks

Show that 2x – 1 is a factor of 2x³ – 5x² + 10x – 4.

  1. (i)Show that 2x – 1 is a factor of 2x³ – 5x² + 10x – 4.[2]
  2. (ii)Hence show that 2x³ – 5x² + 10x − 4 = 0 has only one real root and state the value of this root.[4]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2011). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

  1. (i) 2(½)³ – 5(½)² + 10(½) – 4 = 0; M1 for substitution of x = 0.5 or at long division; A1
  2. (ii) (2x−1)(x²-2x+4); M1 attempt to obtain quadratic factor; A1 for correct quadratic factor
  3. For (x²-2x+4), b² < 4ac; M1 for correct use of discriminant or solution of quadratic equation = 0
  4. so only one real root of x = 0.5; A1, all correct with statement of root.

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
Factors of polynomials, O-Level Additional Mathematics (syllabus 4037). Structured question, 6 marks.
Source
O-Level Additional Mathematics, May/June 2011 Paper 1 Variant 2, question 5.

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