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A-LevelMathematicsAlgebra9709/22 · May/June 2017 · Q13 Marks

Solve the equation |x + a| = |2x – 5a|, giving x in terms of the positive constant a.

  1. N/ASolve the equation |x + a| = |2x – 5a|, giving x in terms of the positive constant a.[3]

Mark scheme

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

  1. B1 State or imply non-modulus equation(x+a)² =(2x-5a)² or pair of linear equations
  2. M1 Attempt solution of quadratic equation or of pair of linear equations
  3. A1 Obtain, as final answers, 6a and a
  4. SR B1 for x = 6a

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About this question

Topic
Algebra, A-Level Mathematics (syllabus 9709). Structured question, 3 marks.
Source
A-Level Mathematics, May/June 2017 Paper 2 Variant 2, question 1.

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