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A-LevelMathematicsTrigonometry9709/21 · Oct/Nov 2018 · Q710 Marks

The diagram shows the curve with equation y = sin 2x + 3 cos 2x for 0 ≤ x ≤ π. At the points P and Q on the curve, the gradient of the curve is 3. [Figure 12.1]

  1. (i)Find an expression for dy/dx.[2]
  2. (ii)By first expressing dy/dx in the form Rcos(2x + α), where R > 0 and 0 < α < ½π, find the x-coordinates of P and Q, giving your answers correct to 4 significant figures.[8]

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Mark scheme

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

  1. [M1] State expression of form k₁ cos 2x + k₂ sin 2x
  2. [A1] State correct 2cos 2x – 6 sin 2x
  3. [B1] State R = √40 or 6.324... FT Following their derivative
  4. [M1] Use appropriate trigonometry to find α
  5. [A1] Obtain 1.249... Allow α in degrees at this point
  6. [*M1] Equate their Rcos(2x + α) to 3 and find cos⁻¹(3÷R)
  7. [M1] Carry out correct process to find one value of x Dependent on *M1, allow for -0.086....
  8. [A1] Obtain 1.979
  9. [M1] Carry out correct process to find second value of x within the range Dependent on *M1
  10. [A1] Obtain 3.055 Allow 3.056

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About this question

Topic
Trigonometry, A-Level Mathematics (syllabus 9709). Structured question, 10 marks.
Source
A-Level Mathematics, Oct/Nov 2018 Paper 2 Variant 1, question 7.

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