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A-LevelMathematicsAlgebra9709/22 · Oct/Nov 2023 · Q12 Marks

When the polynomial ax³ + 4ax² -7x - 5 is divided by (x + 2), the remainder is 33.

  1. Find the value of the constant a.[2]

Mark scheme

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

  1. [M1] Substitute x=-2 and equate to 33 OE (long or synthetic division). Note: Long division and synthetic division give a remainder of -8a+14-5. Allow one sign error for M1.
  2. [A1] Obtain -8a+16a+14-5=33 and hence a=3

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About this question

Topic
Algebra, A-Level Mathematics (syllabus 9709). Structured question, 2 marks.
Source
A-Level Mathematics, Oct/Nov 2023 Paper 2 Variant 2, question 1.

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