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A-LevelMathematicsDifferential equations9709/32 · Feb/Mar 2018 · Q68 Marks

The variables x and θ satisfy the differential equation x cos² θ (dx/dθ) = 2 tan θ + 1, for 0 ≤ θ < ½π and x > 0. It is given that x = 1 when θ = ¼π.

  1. (i)Show that d/dθ (tan² θ) = 2 tan θ / cos² θ.[1]
  2. (ii)Solve the differential equation and calculate the value of x when θ = ⅓π, giving your answer correct to 3 significant figures.[7]

Mark scheme

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

  1. [B1] Show sufficient working to justify the given statement AG
  2. [B1] Separate variables correctly and attempt integration of at least one side
  3. [B1] Obtain term ½x²
  4. [B1 + B1] Obtain terms tan²θ + tanθ, or sec²θ + tanθ
  5. [M1] Evaluate a constant, or use limits x = 1, θ = ¼π, in a solution with two terms of the form ax² and b tanθ, where ab ≠ 0
  6. [A1] State correct answer in any form, e.g. ½x² = tan²θ + tanθ – ¾
  7. [A1] Substitute θ = ⅓π and obtain x = 2.54

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About this question

Topic
Differential equations, A-Level Mathematics (syllabus 9709). Structured question, 8 marks.
Source
A-Level Mathematics, Feb/Mar 2018 Paper 3 Variant 2, question 6.

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