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A-LevelMathematicsNumerical methods9709/22 · May/June 2023 · Q47 Marks

The diagram shows the graph of y = 3 – e^(-½x). It is given that the two roots of 3 – e^(-½x) = |5x – 4| are denoted by α and β, where α < β.

  1. (a)On the diagram, sketch the graph of y = |5x – 4|, and show that the equation 3 – e^(–½x) = |5x − 4| has exactly two real roots.[2]
  2. (b)Show by calculation that α lies between 0.36 and 0.37.[2]
  3. (c)Use the iterative formula x_(n+1) = ⅓(7 – e^(-½x_n)) to find β correct to 4 significant figures. Give the result of each iteration to 6 significant figures.[3]

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Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2023). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

  1. 4(a)
  2. [*B1] Draw (more or less) correct sketch with vertex on positive x-axis
  3. [DB1] Indicate in some way the two roots
  4. 4(b)
  5. [M1] Consider sign of 3 –e¯½* +5x-4 or of 3-e¯½* - |5x-4| for 0.36 and 0.37
  6. [A1] Obtain -0.035... and 0.018..., or equivalents, and justify conclusion
  7. 4(c)
  8. [M1] Use iteration process correctly at least once
  9. [A1] Obtain final answer 1.295
  10. [A1] Show sufficient iterations to 6 sf to justify answer or show sign change in interval [1.2945, 1.2955]

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About this question

Topic
Numerical methods, A-Level Mathematics (syllabus 9709). Structured question, 7 marks.
Source
A-Level Mathematics, May/June 2023 Paper 2 Variant 2, question 4.

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