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A-LevelFurther MathematicsComplex numbers9231/12 · Oct/Nov 2018 · Q810 Marks

By considering the binomial expansion of (z + 1/z)⁶, where z = cos θ + i sin θ, express cos⁶ θ in the form 1/32 (p + q cos 2θ + r cos 4θ + s cos 6θ), where p, q, r and s are integers to be determined.

  1. (i)By considering the binomial expansion of (z + 1/z)⁶, where z = cos θ + i sin θ, express cos⁶ θ in the form 1/32 (p + q cos 2θ + r cos 4θ + s cos 6θ), where p, q, r and s are integers to be determined.[6]
  2. (ii)Hence find the exact value of ∫(from -π/2 to π/2) cos⁶(1/2 x) dx.[4]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2018). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

  1. [B1] Use of z + z⁻¹ = 2cos θ.
  2. [M1A1] Expands and groups.
  3. [M1A1] Substitutes zⁿ + z⁻ⁿ = 2cos nθ.
  4. [A1] (Allow p=10, q=15,r = 6,s =1.)
  5. [M1] Applies part (i)
  6. [M1] Integrates correctly (3/4 terms correct).
  7. [M1] Inserts limits and evaluates.
  8. [A1]

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About this question

Topic
Complex numbers, A-Level Further Mathematics (syllabus 9231). Structured question, 10 marks.
Source
A-Level Further Mathematics, Oct/Nov 2018 Paper 1 Variant 2, question 8.

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