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A-LevelMathematicsNumerical methods9709/32 · Oct/Nov 2017 · Q910 Marks

It is given that ∫(1 to a) x² ln x dx = 2, where a > 1.

  1. (i)Show that a³ = (7 + 2a²) / (3 ln a).[5]
  2. (ii)Show by calculation that a lies between 2 and 4.[2]
  3. (iii)Use the iterative formula a_n+1 = ( (7 + 2a_n²) / (3 ln a_n) )^(1/3) to determine a correct to 3 decimal places. Give the result of each iteration to 5 decimal places.[3]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2017). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

  1. [1] Integrate by parts and reach ax³ ln x + b∫ x² (1/x) dx
  2. [1] Obtain (1/3)x³ ln x - ∫ (1/3)x² dx
  3. [1] Obtain integral (1/3)x³ ln x - (1/9)x³, or equivalent
  4. [1] Substitute limits correctly and equate to 2
  5. [1] Obtain the given answer correctly
  6. [1] Evaluate a relevant expression or pair of expressions at x = 2 and x = 4
  7. [1] Complete the argument correctly with correct calculated values
  8. [1] Use the iterative formula correctly at least once
  9. [1] Obtain final answer 3.031
  10. [1] Show sufficient iterations to 5 d.p. to justify 3.031 to 3 d.p., or show there is a sign change in the interval (3.0305, 3.0315)

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About this question

Topic
Numerical methods, A-Level Mathematics (syllabus 9709). Structured question, 10 marks.
Source
A-Level Mathematics, Oct/Nov 2017 Paper 3 Variant 2, question 9.

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