Chapter 3 Variation

Chapter 3
3
Variation
Objectives
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
To recognise relationships involving direct variation.

To determine the constant of variation in cases involving direct variation.
To solve problems involving direct variation.
To recognise relationships involving inverse variation.
To determine the constant of variation in cases involving inverse variation.
To solve problems involving inverse variation.
To establish the relationship that exists between two variables from given data.
To solve problems involving joint variation.
To solve problems involving part variation.
People working in science, finance and many other areas look for relationships between two
quantities of interest. These relationships often turn out to be either linear or hyperbolic. That
is, the graph relating these quantities is either a straight line or a hyperbola. In the first case
we have direct variation and in the second case inverse variation.
For example, consider the formula d = vt connecting distance travelled (d), time taken (t) and
speed (v).
For a fixed speed, the distance travelled varies directly as the time taken.
d
.
v
Another familiar example is when an object is moving with constant acceleration a. The
1
distance travelled varies directly as the square of the time taken: d = at2 .
2
Throughout this chapter we explore many more applications of variation.
For a fixed distance, the time taken varies inversely as the speed: t =
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Specialist Mathematics 1&2
Cambridge University Press

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3A Direct variation
83
3A Direct variation
Emily drives from her home in Appleton to visit her friend Kim, who lives 600 km away in
Brownsville. She drives at a constant speed, and each hour notes how far she has travelled.
Time (t hours)
Distance (d km)
100
200
300
400
500
600
It can be seen that, as t increases, d also increases. The

rule relating time and distance is d = 100t.
d (km)
d = 100t
This is an example of direct variation, and 100 is the

constant of variation.
(1, 100)
We can say that the distance travelled varies directly

as the time taken, or that d is proportional to t. The
graph of d against t is a straight line passing through
the origin.
t (hours)
The variable y is said to vary directly as x if y = kx, for some positive constant k.
The constant k is called the constant of variation.
The statement y varies directly as x is written symbolically as y x.
Note: For the above example, we can write d t, and the constant of variation is the speed.
Rates are one of the most common examples of variation.
Variation involving powers

A metal ball is dropped from the top of a tall building and the distance it has fallen is
recorded each second.
Time (t s)
Distance (d m)
4.91
19.64
44.19
78.56
122.75
As t increases, d also increases. The rule relating time and distance is d = 4.91t2 .
This is another example of direct variation. In this case, we say that the distance fallen varies
directly as the square of the time taken, or that d is proportional to t2 . We write d t2 .
The graph of d against t2 is a straight line passing through the origin.
d (m)
d
d = 4.91t 2
d = 4.91t 2
(4, 19.64)
(2, 19.64)
(1, 4.91)
O
(1, 4.91)
t (s)
t2

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Chapter 3: Variation
If y xn , then y = kxn , where k is a constant of variation.
If y xn , then the graph of y against xn is a straight line passing through the origin.
For all examples of direct variation (where k is positive), as one variable increases the other
will also increase. The graph of y against x will show an upward trend. It should be noted,
however, that not all increasing trends are examples of direct variation.
I Determining the constant of variation

If y xn , then the constant of variation can be found provided just one value of x and the
corresponding value of y are given.
Example 1
In each case, use the table of values to determine the constant of variation k, and hence
complete the table:
1
b y x (i.e. y x 2 )
a y x2
x
12
6
108
192
Solution
a If y x2 , then
b If y
y = kx2
12 = k(2 )
2
1.225
1.414
x, then
y=k x
k = 0.5
k=3
y = 3x
When x = 4, y = 1, and so
1=k 4
Check:
y = 0.5 x
Check:
When x = 6, y = 0.5 6 1.225
When x = 6, y = 3(6 ) = 108

2
To complete the table, consider the

following:
When x = 4,
y = 3(42 )

following:
When x = 2, y = 0.5 2
= 48
When y = 192,
0.707
64 = x2
1.414 = 0.5 x
2.828 = x
x=8
x8
When y = 1.414,
192 = 3x2
12
48
108
192
0.707
1.225
1.414


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3A Direct variation
85
Example 2
In an electrical wire, the resistance (R ohms) varies directly as the length (L m) of the wire.
a If a 6 m wire has a resistance of 5 ohms, what is the resistance of a 4.5 m wire?
b How long is a wire for which the resistance is 3.8 ohms?
Solution
First determine the constant of variation.
RL
R = kL
When L = 6, R = 5, and so
5 = k(6)
5
k=
6
Hence R =
5L
6
5 4.5
6
= 3.75
a When L = 4.5,
R=
A wire of length 4.5 m has a resistance

of 3.75 ohms.
b When R = 3.8,
5L
6
L = 4.56
3.8 =
A wire of resistance 3.8 ohms has a length

of 4.56 m.
I Increasing and decreasing

If one quantity varies directly as another, we can work out what happens to one of the
quantities when the other is changed.
Example 3
The volume of a sphere varies directly as the cube of its radius. By what percentage will
the volume increase if the radius is:
a doubled
b increased by 20%?
Solution
V r3 , i.e. V = kr3
Initially, set the radius equal to 1. Then V = k(13 ) = k.
a If r is doubled, set r = 2.
b If r is increased by 20%, set r = 1.2.
3
Then V = k(2 ) = 8k.
Then V = k(1.23 ) = 1.728k.
The volume has increased from k to 8k,
% increase in volume = 72.8%
an increase of 7k.
7k 100
% increase in volume =
k
1
= 700%

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3A
Section summary
Direct variation
The variable y varies directly as x if y = kx, for some positive constant k.
We can also say that y is proportional to x, and we can write y x.

The constant k is called the constant of variation or constant of proportionality.
If y is proportional to x, then the graph of y against x is a straight line through the
origin. The gradient of the line is the constant of proportionality.
If y x, then
y1
y2
=
=k
x1
x2
for any two non-zero values x1 and x2 and the corresponding values y1 and y2 .
Exercise 3A
Example 1
For each of the following, determine the constant of variation k and hence complete the
table of values:
a y x2
b yx
32
1
2
1
6
x
128
y
c y
49
x
90
If V r3 and V = 125 when r = 2.5, find:
a V when r = 3.2
b r when V = 200
2
2
If a b 3 and a = when b = 1, find:
3
a a when b = 2
b b when a = 2
2
3
d y x5
Example 2
3
2
1
2
1
32
1
5
1
2
5
32
8
5
The area (A) of a triangle of fixed base length varies directly as its perpendicular
height (h). If the area of the triangle is 60 cm2 when its height is 10 cm, find:
a the area when its height is 12 cm
b the height when its area is 120 cm2 .


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3A
3B Inverse variation
87
The extension in a spring (E) varies directly with the weight (w) suspended from it. If a
weight of 452 g produces an extension of 3.2 cm, find:
a the extension produced by a weight of 810 g
b the weight that would produce an extension of 10 cm.
Example 3
The weight (W) of a square sheet of lead varies directly with the square of its side
length (L). If a sheet of side length 20 cm weighs 18 kg, find the weight of a sheet that
has an area of 225 cm2 .
The volume (V) of a sphere varies directly with the cube of its radius (r). A sphere of
radius 10 cm has a volume of 4188.8 cm3 . Find the radius of a sphere that has a volume
of 1 cubic metre.
The surface area of a sphere varies directly as the square of its radius. By what
percentage will the surface area increase if the radius is:
a doubled
b tripled
c increased by 10%?
The energy generated by a wind turbine is proportional to the cube of the wind speed.
By what percentage will the energy increase if the wind speed increases by 15%?
10
The time taken for one complete oscillation of a pendulum is called its period. The
period (T ) of a pendulum varies directly with the square root of the length (L) of the
pendulum. A pendulum of length 60 cm has a period of 1.55 seconds. Find the period
of a pendulum that is one and a half times as long.
11
The distance (d) to the visible horizon varies directly with the square root of the
height (h) of the observer above sea level. An observer 1.8 m tall can see 4.8 km out to
sea when standing on the shoreline.
a How far could the person see if they climbed a 4 m tower?
b If the top of a 10 m mast on a yacht is just visible to the observer in the tower, how
far out to sea is the yacht?
12
For each of the following, calculate the percentage change in y when x is:
a doubled
b halved
i y x2
ii y
c reduced by 20%
x
d increased by 40%
iii y x3
A builder employs a number of bricklayers to build a brick wall. Three bricklayers will
complete the wall in 8 hours. But if he employs six bricklayers, the wall will be complete in
half the time. The more bricklayers he employs, the shorter the time taken to complete the
wall. The time taken (t) decreases as the number of bricklayers (b) increases.
This is an example of inverse variation: the time taken to complete the wall varies inversely
as the number of bricklayers. We can also say that t is inversely proportional to b.

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88
The variable y is said to vary inversely as x if y =
k
, for some positive constant k
x
called the constant of variation.

1
1
If y varies inversely as x, then y varies directly as and so we can write y .
x
x
1
is equivalent to xy = k, for a positive constant k. That is, the product is constant.
x
This is often a useful way to check for inverse variation when given data in table form.
6
1
For example, if y = , then y and the constant of variation is 6.
x
x
Note: y
1
2
1
3
1
x
1
2
12
18
6
y=x
x
1
x
The points given by the first and third rows of the table lie on the left-hand graph, and the
points given by the second and third rows lie on the right-hand graph.
1
1
1
In general, if y n , then the graph of y against n will be a straight line. However, since n
x
x
x
never equals 0, the line will not be defined at the origin.
For all examples of inverse variation, as one variable increases the other will decrease,
and vice versa. The graph of y against x will show a downward trend. It should be noted,
however, that not all decreasing trends are examples of inverse variation.
Example 4
In each case, determine the constant of variation k and hence complete the table:
1
1
a y 2
b y
x
x
x
0.1
0.016
10
Solution
k
a y= 2
x
When x = 2, y = 0.1, and so
k
0.1 = 2
2
k = 0.4

y=
0.4
x2
0.001
10
100
2
k
b y=
x
k
10 =
1
k = 10
10
y=
x

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a continued
b continued
Check:
Check:

following:
0.4
When x = 10, y = 2
10

following:
10
When x = 4, y =
4
=5
0.4
When x = 5, y = 2 = 0.016
5
10
=1
When x = 100, y =
100
= 0.004
0.4
x2
0.4
x2 =
0.001
When y = 0.001,
89
0.001 =
When y = 2,
10
2=
x
x=5
x = 25
x = 20
x
10
20
25
100
0.1
0.016
0.004
0.001
10
Example 5
For a cylinder of fixed volume, the height (h cm) is inversely proportional to the square of
the radius (r cm).
a What percentage change in the height would result if its radius were reduced by 25%?
b If a cylinder of height 15 cm has a base radius of 4.2 cm, how high would a cylinder of
equivalent volume be if its radius were 3.5 cm?
Solution
k
1
a h 2 , i.e. h = 2
r
r
If r = 1, then h =
b h=
k
= k.
12
k
r2
When h = 15, r = 4.2, and so

15 =
If r is reduced by 25%, set r = 0.75.

Then
k
(0.75)2
k
=
0.5625
k = 15(4.2)2 = 264.6
h=
1.778k
k
(4.2)2
(to 3 d.p.)
Hence h is increased by 77.8%.
h=
264.6
r2
If r = 3.5, then
h=
264.6
= 21.6
(3.5)2
A cylinder of radius 3.5 cm has a height

of 21.6 cm.


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90
3B
Section summary
Inverse variation
k
, for some positive constant k.
x
1
We can also say that y is inversely proportional to x, and we can write y .
x
1
If y varies inversely as x, then the graph of y against is a straight line (not defined at
x
the origin) and the gradient is the constant of variation.
1
If y , then x1 y1 = x2 y2 = k, for any two values x1 and x2 and the corresponding
x
values y1 and y2 .
The variable y varies inversely as x if y =
Exercise 3B
Skillsheet
Example 4
For each of the following, determine the constant of variation k and hence complete the
table of values:
1
1
a y
b y
x
x
x
y
c y
x
y
Example 5
1
2
6
1
16
1
x2
1
4
1
2
d y
9
1
4
1
1
x3
1
3
4
x
1
12
1
8
2
3
1
1
3
125
1
9
1
and a = 4 when b = 2, find:
3
b
1
a a when b = 2 2
b b when a =
16
1
If a 4 and a = 5 when b = 2, find:
b
a a when b = 4
b b when a = 20
If a
The gas in a cylindrical canister occupies a volume of 22.5 cm3 and exerts a pressure of
1.9 kg/cm2 . If the volume (V) varies inversely as the pressure (P), find the pressure if
the volume is reduced to 15 cm3 .
The current (I amperes) that flows in an electrical appliance varies inversely as the
resistance (R ohms). If the current is 3 amperes when the resistance is 80 ohms, find:
a the current when the resistance is 100 ohms
b the increase in resistance required to reduce the current to 80% of its original value.


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3B
91
3C Fitting data
The intensity of illumination (I) of a light is inversely proportional to the square

of the distance (d) from the light. At a distance of 20 m, a light has an intensity of
100 candelas. Find the intensity of the light at a distance of 25 m.
The radius (r) of a cylinder of fixed volume varies inversely as the square root of its
height (h). If the height is 10 cm when the radius is 5.64 cm, find the radius if the height
is 12 cm.
For each of the following, calculate the percentage change in y when x is:
a doubled
1
i y 2
x
b halved
c reduced by 20%
1
ii y
x
iii y
d increased by 40%
1
x3
3C Fitting data
Sometimes the type of relationship that exists between two variables a and b is not known.
By inspection of a table of values, it may be possible to ascertain whether the relationship
between the variables is direct or inverse proportion. Analysis is required to establish the rule
that best fits the given data. This may involve graphing the data.
Example 6
Establish the relationship between the two
variables for the given table of values.
12
48
108
192
Solution
From the table, we see that as b increases, a also increases, and that when b = 0, a = 0.
Therefore we can conjecture that some type of direct variation exists.
Assume that a bn for some positive number n.
i.e.
a = kbn
k=
a
bn
Choose a value for n (it must be a positive number) and test each pair of values in the
table, except (0, 0). If the value of k is the same for each pair, the choice of n is correct.
a
a
Let n = 1. Then k = .
Let n = 2. Then k = 2 .
b
b
a
a
Consider for the values in the table.
Consider 2 for the values in the table.
b
b
Testing:
12
= 6,
2
108
= 18,
6
48
= 12,
4
192
= 24
8
The quotients are not all the same, and

so n , 1.
Testing:
12
= 3,
4
48
= 3,
16
108
= 3,
36
192
=3
64
The quotients are all equal to 3.

Thus k = 3 and n = 2. Hence a = 3b2 .

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92
Example 7
Establish the relationship between the two
variables for the given table of values.
12
15
30
10
2.5
Solution
From the table, we see that as x increases, y decreases. Therefore we conjecture that some
type of inverse variation exists.
1
Assume that y n for some positive number n.
x
k
i.e. y = n k = yxn
x
Let n = 1. Then k = yx.
Consider the product yx for the values given in the table.

Testing:
30 1 = 30,
10 3 = 30,
Thus k = 30 and n = 1. Hence y =
5 6 = 30,
2.5 12 = 30,
2 15 = 30
30
.
x
The type of variation can also be investigated by graphical analysis. By plotting the graph
of a against b, an upward trend may indicate direct variation or a downward trend may
indicate inverse variation.
To find the specific type of variation that exists, the following can be used as a guide:
Direct variation If a bn , then the graph of a against bn will be a straight line through the
origin. The gradient of this line will be the constant of variation k.

1
1
Inverse variation If a n , then the graph of a against n will be a straight line not
b
b
defined at the origin. The gradient of this line will be the constant of variation k.
Example 8
For the given table of values, plot the graph
of a against b2 and hence establish the rule
relating a to b.
0.5
4.5
12.5
Solution
b2
16
25
0.5
4.5
12.5
10
The graph is a straight line, and so it

can be conjectured that the relationship
is a = kb2 , where k is the gradient of
the line.
1
From the graph, it can be seen that a = b2 .
2
5
0
10
15
20
25
b2

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3C Fitting data
93
If the relationship between two variables x and y is of the form y = kxn , where k R+ and
n R \ {0}, then a CAS calculator can be used to find n and k given sufficient information.
Example 9
The following data was collected, recording the number of calls (N) made to a company
D days after the start of an advertising campaign.
Days (D)
10
15
Number of calls (N)
50
400
1350
Find a relationship between N and D using a CAS calculator.
Using the TI-Nspire

In a Lists & Spreadsheet page, enter the data
in lists xs and ys as shown.
Insert a Data & Statistics page (

Add Data & Statistics).
ctrl
>
Click on the Click to add variable box and
select xs from the dropdown menu.

Repeat for the y-axis and select ys.
Use menu > Analyze > Regression >

Show Power.
This gives y = 0.4x3 and so the required
relationship is N = 0.4D3 .


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94
Using the Casio ClassPad

Go to m and open Statistics
Enter the data values as shown.

Select Calc > Regression > Power Reg.
Ensure that the Set Calculation settings are as
shown below.
Note: Setting Copy Formula to y1 will store the

regression equation in the Graph & Table
application.
to obtain the equation y = 0.4x3 . The
required relationship is N = 0.4D3 .
Tap OK a second time to view the graph of the
regression curve.
Tap
OK
Example 10
Using the data in the table, establish a rule connecting y
and x.
64
2.5
1.25
Using the TI-Nspire

1
5
The rule is y = 5x 3 = 3
x


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3C
3C Fitting data
95
Using the Casio ClassPad

1
5
The rule is y = 5x 3 = 3
x
Section summary
Direct variation If a bn , then the graph of a against bn will be a straight line through
the origin. The gradient of this line will be the constant of variation k.
1
1
Inverse variation If a n , then the graph of a against n will be a straight line not
b
b
defined at the origin. The gradient of this line will be the constant of variation k.
Exercise 3C
Example 6, 7
Each of the tables in parts a to e fits one of the following five types of variation:
1
direct y x
inverse y
direct square y x2
x
1
inverse square y 2
direct square root y x
x
Establish the relationship between x and y in each case.
a

12
16
36
64
100
20
15
10
1
4
1
3
1
2
2.828
3.464
4.472
1.5
2.5
1.78
0.64
0.444

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3C
Which of the following graphs could represent examples of direct variation?

y
1
x
O
y
Which of the following graphs could represent examples of inverse variation?

y
O
y
1
x
O
y
x3
x3
Give the rule connecting y and x for each of the following:

y
(3, 10)
(1, 3)
(2, 6)
x
O
y

x2
(1, 6)
(9, 3)
(1, 2)
O
1
x
1
x
x3

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3C
Example 8
Example 9, 10
97
3C Fitting data
Plot the graph of y against x2 and hence establish the relationship between x and y.
x
2.5
3.5
9.6
15
21.6
29.4
38.4
Plot the graph of y against
x and hence establish the relationship between x and y.
16
25
1.5
4.5
7.5
Plot the graph of y against
1
and hence establish the relationship between x and y.
x2
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
50
22.2
12.5
Given that y = axb for each of the following, use your CAS calculators power
regression function to establish the values of a and b:
a
4.00
8.00
12.00
16.00
0.50
0.71
0.87
1.00
10
100
1000
3.50
8.79
22.08
55.47
2.00
0.35
0.13
0.06
10
15
2.00
14.95
35.57
59.04
10
20
30
40
46.42
73.68
96.55
116.96
3.20
2.06
1.68
1.47
The concentration of antibodies (C) in an animals bloodstream depends on the time

(t hours) after which the animal is injected with an antigen. The relationship can be
modelled by a rule of the form C = atb . The following data is collected.
t
100
114.87
124.57
131.95
a Find values for a and b.

10
b Find the concentration after 10 hours.
The level of infestation (I) of a pest in a crop depends on the time (t days) after which
the crop is sprayed with an insecticide. The relationship can be modelled by a rule of
the form I = atb , for t 1. The following data is collected.
t
1500
1061
866
750
a Find values for a and b.

b Find the level of infestation after 10 days.

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98
3D Joint variation
There are many situations where one variable depends on more than one other variable. The
variable is said to vary jointly as the other variables. For example, the volume of a cylinder
varies jointly as the square of the radius and the height:
V r2 h
i.e.
V = kr2 h
(In this example, the value of k is known to be .)
Example 11
x2
, use the following table of values to find the constant of variation k,
z
and hence complete the table.
Given that y
10
10
50
2.5
Solution
y=
kx2
z
When x = 2 and z = 10, y = 2:

2=
k(22 )
10
k=5
y=
5x2
z
To complete the table, consider the following:

When x = 4 and z = 8,
y=
When z = 50 and y = 2.5,
5(42 )
8
2.5 =
= 10
5(x2 )
50
25 = x2
x=5
When x = 10 and y = 4,
5(102 )
4=
z
4z = 500
10
10
50
125
10
2.5
z = 125


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3D
99
3D Joint variation
Example 12
The speed (s) of a conveyor belt varies jointly as the diameter (d) of the cog around which
it passes and the number of revolutions per second (n) the cog makes. The speed of a belt
that passes around a cog of diameter 0.3 m revolving 20 times per second is 18.85 m/s.
Find the value of:
a the constant of variation
b the speed of a belt passing around a cog half as big revolving 30 times per second.
Solution
a
b When d = 0.15 and n = 30,
s dn
i.e. s = kdn
s = 3.142(0.15)(30)
We know that s = 18.85 when d = 0.3

and n = 20. Therefore
= 14.14 m/s
(to 2 d.p.)
18.85 = k(0.3)(20)
k = 3.142
(to 3 d.p.)
Hence s = 3.142dn.
Section summary
Joint variation
If z varies directly as xy, then z is said to vary jointly as x and y. We write z xy.
For example, the area (A) of a triangle varies jointly as the base (b) and the height (h).
We write A bh.
Exercise 3D
Skillsheet
Example 11
x
, use this table of values
z
to determine the constant of variation k, and
hence complete the table.
Given that y
Given that y xz, use this table of values to

determine the constant of variation k, and hence
complete the table.
z
Given that y 2 , use this table of values to
x
determine the constant of variation k, and hence
complete the table.

10
10
60
10
0.5
10
10
10
50
15
2
4
3
4
10
50
25
15
10

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100 Chapter 3: Variation
Example 12
3D
Assume that a varies directly as b2 and inversely as c. If a = 0.54 when b = 1.2 and
c = 2, find a when b = 2.6 and c = 3.5.
Assume that z varies as the square root of x and inversely as the cube of y. If z = 1.46
when x = 5 and y = 1.5, find z when x = 4.8 and y = 2.3.
The potential energy (PE) of an object varies jointly as the mass (m kg) of the object
and the height (h m) it is held above the Earths surface. The potential energy of an
80 kg mass held 10 m above the Earths surface is 7840 J. Find the value of:
a the constant of variation
b the potential energy of an object with half the mass at a height of 15 m.
The simple interest (I) earned on an investment varies jointly as the interest rate (r) and
the time (t) for which it is invested. If a sum of money invested at 6.5% per annum for
two years earns $130, how much interest would the same amount of money earn if it
were invested at 5.8% for three years?
The kinetic energy (E) of an object varies directly as its mass (m) and the square of its
velocity (v). If the kinetic energy of an object with a mass of 2.5 kg moving at 15 m/s is
281.25 J, find the energy of an object with a mass of 1.8 kg moving at 20 m/s.
The resistance (R) in an electrical wire varies directly as its length (`) and inversely as
the square of its diameter (d). Find the percentage change in R if:
a ` is increased by 50% and d is decreased by 50%
b ` is decreased by 50% and d is increased by 50%.
10
The weight (W) that can be supported by a wooden beam varies directly as the square
of its diameter (d) and inversely as its length (`).
a What percentage increase in the diameter would be necessary for a beam twice as
long to support an equivalent weight?
b What percentage change in the weight would be capable of being supported by a
beam three times as long with twice the diameter?
11
If p varies as the square of q and inversely as the square root of r, what is the effect
on p if:
a both q and r are doubled
12
b q is doubled and r is halved?
a The tension in a spring (T ) varies directly with the extension (x) and inversely with
the natural length (`) of the spring. Compare the tension in a spring with a natural
length of 3 m that is extended by 1 m with the tension in a second spring with a
natural length of 2.7 m that is extended by 0.9 m.
b The work done (W) in stretching a spring varies directly with the square of the
extension (x) and inversely with the natural length of the spring (`). Compare the
work done on the two springs in part a.


ISBN 978-1-107-56765-8
Evans et al. 2016
3E Part variation 101
3E Part variation
The total cost ($C) of printing cards is made up of a fixed overhead charge ($b) plus an
amount that varies directly as the number printed (n):
C = b + kn
The total surface area (A) of a closed cylinder of fixed height is made up of two parts, the area
of the curved surface (2rh), which varies as the radius, and the area of the two ends (2r2 ),
which varies as the square of the radius:
A = k1 r + k2 r2
where k1 = 2h and k2 = 2 are the constants of variation.
These are examples of part variation.
Part variation exists when the value of one variable is the sum of two or more quantities, each
of which varies independently in some way. In some cases, as in the first example above, one
of those quantities may be constant.
Example 13
A monthly telephone account (A) is made up of a fixed charge (c) for rental and servicing
plus an amount that is proportional to the number of calls made (n).
In January, 220 calls were made and the account was for $98.20.
In February, 310 calls were made and the account was for $120.70.
Find the fixed charge and the cost per call.

Solution
We know that
A = c + kn
where c is the fixed charge and k is the cost per call.
98.20 = c + 220k
(1)
120.70 = c + 310k
(2)
Solving simultaneously, subtract (1) from (2):

22.5 = 90k
k = 0.25
Substitute in (1):
98.20 = c + 220(0.25)
= c + 55
c = 43.2
The fixed charge is $43.20 and the cost per call is 25 cents.


ISBN 978-1-107-56765-8
Evans et al. 2016

Example 14
The distance (d) travelled by a tram after its brakes are applied, its stopping distance,
varies partly with the speed of the tram (s) and partly with the square of its speed. A tram
travelling at 15 km/h can stop in 57 m and at 20 km/h in 96 m. Find the formula that
relates s to d and hence find the stopping distance of a tram travelling at 18 km/h.
Solution
d = k1 s + k2 s2
57 = 15k1 + 225k2
(1)
96 = 20k1 + 400k2
(2)
Multiply (1) by 4 and (2) by 3:

228 = 60k1 + 900k2
(3)
288 = 60k1 + 1200k2
(4)
Subtract (3) from (4):

60 = 300k2
1
k2 =
5
Substitute in (1):
57 = 15k1 + 225
1
5
57 = 15k1 + 45
k1 =
12 4
=
15 5
1
4
s + s2 .
5
5
4
1
When s = 18, d = (18) + (18)2 = 79.2.
5
5
The stopping distance of the tram will be 79.2 m.
Hence d =
Section summary
Part variation occurs when the value of one variable is the sum of two or more
quantities, each of which varies independently in some way.

For example:
If z = k1 x + k2 y, then we say that z varies partly as x and partly as y.
If z = kx + c, where c is a constant, then we say that z is partly constant and varies
partly as x.


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Evans et al. 2016
3E Part variation 103
3E
Exercise 3E
Skillsheet
The cost of a taxi ride (C) is partly constant (b) and partly varies with the distance
travelled (d). A ride of 22 km costs $42.40 and a ride of 25 km costs $47.80. Find the
cost of a journey of 17 km.
The cost of holding a wedding reception at Hillview Reception Centre includes a fixed
overhead charge and an amount per guest. A reception for 50 people costs $13 125 and
a reception for 70 people costs $17 875.
Example 13
a Find the fixed overhead charge and the cost per guest.
b Hence find the total cost of a reception for 100 guests.
Example 14
The variable p is the sum of two quantities, one of which varies as x and the other as
the square of y. If p = 14 when x = 3 and y = 4, and p = 14.5 when x = 5 and y = 3,
find p when x = 4 and y = 5.
The cost of running a ferris wheel in an amusement park varies partly directly as the
number of passengers and partly inversely as the number of passengers. If the running
cost is $32 for 200 passengers and $61 for 400 passengers, find the running cost on a
day when there are 360 passengers.
The distance travelled (s) by a particle varies partly with time and partly with the square
of time. If it travels 142.5 m in 3 s and travels 262.5 m in 5 s, find:
a how far it would travel in 6 s
b how far it would travel during the sixth second.
The time taken (t) to load boxes onto a truck is partly proportional to the number of
boxes (b) and partly inversely proportional to the number of workers (w) loading the
boxes. If it takes one worker 45 minutes to load 10 boxes and it takes two workers
30 minutes to load 8 boxes, how long would it take four workers to load 16 boxes?


ISBN 978-1-107-56765-8
Evans et al. 2016
Review
Chapter summary
Direct variation
AS
Nrich
If y xn , for some n R+ :
We say that y varies directly as xn .
This means that y = kxn , where k is the constant of variation (k R+ ).
As x increases, y will also increase.
The graph of y against xn is a straight line through the origin.
Inverse variation
1
, for some n R+ :
xn
We say that y varies inversely as xn .
k
This means that y = n , where k is the constant of variation (k R+ ).
x
As x increases, y will decrease.
1
The graph of y against n is a straight line not defined at the origin.
x
If y
Joint variation
One variable varies with more than one other variable; this may be a combination of direct
and inverse variation. For example:
V r2 h implies V = kr2 h, for some constant k
kc
a implies a = , for some constant k
Part variation
The value of one variable is the sum of two or more quantities, each of which is
determined by a variation. In some cases, one of the quantities may be constant.
For example: A = k1 r + k2 r2 , where k1 and k2 are constants.
Technology-free questions
1
a If a b2 and a =
3
when b = 2, find a when b = 4 and find b when a = 8.
2
1
.
8
1
1
1
4
c If y 2 and y = when x = 2, find y when x = and find x when y =
.
3
2
27
x
1
d Assume a varies directly as b and inversely as c. If a = when b = 1 and c = 4,
4
4
16
find a when b = and c =
.
9
9
1
b If y x 3 and y = 10 when x = 2, find y when x = 27 and find x when y =
The distance, d metres, which an object falls varies directly as the square of the time,
t seconds, for which it has been falling. If an object falls 78.56 m in 4 s, find:
a the formula connecting d and t
c the time taken to fall 19.64 m.

b the distance fallen in 10 s

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Chapter 3 review 105
The velocity of a falling object (v m/s) varies directly as the square root of the distance
(s m) through which it has fallen. An object has a velocity of 7 m/s after falling 2.5 m.
a Find its velocity after falling 10 m.
b Find the distance through which it falls to attain a velocity of 28 m/s.
c What variables would be plotted on the axes to obtain a straight-line graph?
The time taken for a journey is inversely proportional to the average speed of travel. If
it takes 4 hours travelling at 30 km/h, how long will it take travelling at 50 km/h?
If y varies inversely as x, what is the effect on:

a y if x is doubled
c y if x is halved
b x if y is doubled
d x if y is halved?
The cost of running an electrical appliance varies jointly as the time it is run, the
electrical resistance and the square of the current. It costs 9 cents to use an appliance of
resistance 60 ohms that draws 4 amps of current for 2.5 hours. How much will it cost to
use an appliance of resistance 80 ohms that draws 3 amps of current for 1.5 hours?
The cost of printing is made up of two parts: a fixed charge and a charge proportional to
the number of copies. If the cost of printing 100 copies is $20 and the cost of printing
500 copies is $30, what would be the cost of printing 700 copies?
For a constant resistance, the voltage (v volts) of an electrical circuit varies directly
as the current (I amps). If the voltage is 24 volts when the current is 6 amps, find the
current when the voltage is 72 volts.
The intensity of sound varies inversely as the square of the distance of the observer
from the source. If the observer moves to twice the distance from the source, compare
the second intensity I2 with the first intensity I1 .
10
Review
If y varies directly as x2 and inversely as z, find the percentage change in y when x is

increased by 10% and z is decreased by 10%.
Multiple-choice questions
1
For the values in the table shown, it is known that y x2 .

The value of k, the constant of variation, is equal to
1
4
D 2
E
A 3
B 9
C
3
3
1
For the values in the table shown, it is known that y .
x
1
1
A
B 1
C 4
D 2
E
2
4

4
3
12
1
4
1
8
1
16

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Evans et al. 2016
Review

3
Assume that a b3 and that a = 32 when b = 2. If b = 4, then a =

A 64
B 256
Assume that p
1
1
and that p = when q = 3. If p = 1, then q =
2
3
q
B 3
C 3
D 1
A 3
C 4
D 16
E 128
1
3
5 The rule connecting y and x as shown in the graph is
A y = 3x
B y = 3x2
C y=3 x
1
E y = x2 + 2
D y= x
3
(2, 6)
x2
The rule connecting y and x as shown in the graph is
1
A y= x
B y = 4x
C y= x
4
D y=4 x
E y=x
(1, 4)
For the values in the table shown, it is known that y

1
2
4
C
D 3
E
A 2
B
3
3
3
x
.
z2
1
3
2
3
4
3
Assume that a varies directly as the square of p and inversely as q, and assume that
a = 8 when p = 2 and q = 5. If p = 3 and q = 6, then a =
1
A
B 12
C 120
D 15
E 5
2
If p q2 and q is increased by 10%, then p would be
A increased by 10%
D increased by 21%
10 If p
C increased by 100%
1
and q is decreased by 20%, then p would be
q
A decreased by 25%
D increased by 20%

B increased by 20%
E unchanged
B increased by 25%
E unchanged
C decreased by 20%

ISBN 978-1-107-56765-8
Evans et al. 2016
A certain type of hollow sphere is designed in such a way that the mass varies as the
square of the diameter. Three spheres of this type are made. The first has mass 0.10 kg
and diameter 9 cm, the second has diameter 14 cm and the third has mass 0.15 kg. Find:
a the mass of the second sphere
Review
Extended-response questions
b the diameter of the third sphere.
The height (h m) to which a centrifugal pump raises water is proportional to the square
of its speed of rotation (n rpm). If the pump raises water to a height of 13.5 m when it is
rotating at 200 rpm, find:
a the formula connecting h and n
b the height to which the water can be raised when the pump is rotating at 225 rpm
c the speed required to raise the water to a height of 16 m.
The maximum speed of yachts of normal dimensions varies as the square root of their
length. If a yacht 20 m long can maintain a maximum speed of 15 knots, find the
maximum speed of a yacht 15 m long.
a The air in a tube occupies 43.5 cm3 and the pressure is 2.8 kg/cm2 . If the volume (V)
varies inversely as the pressure (P), find the formula connecting V and P.
b Calculate the pressure when the volume is decreased to 12.7 cm3 .
The weight (w kg) which a beam supported at each end will carry without breaking
varies inversely as the distance (d m) between supports. A beam which measures 6 m
between supports will just carry a load of 500 kg.
a Find the formula connecting w and d.
b What weight could the beam carry if the distance between the supports were 5 m?
c What weight could the beam carry if the distance between the supports were 9 m?
The table shows the relationship between the

pressure and the volume of a fixed mass of gas
when the temperature is constant.
Pressure (p)
12
16
18
Volume (v)
12
a What is a possible equation relating p and v?

b Using this equation, find:
i the volume when the pressure is 72 units
ii the pressure when the volume is 3 units.
1
c Sketch the graph relating v and .
p
7
The time taken to manufacture particular items of scientific equipment varies partly
as the diameter of the item and partly as the number of parts in the item. It takes
30 minutes to make a 3 cm diameter item with eight parts and it takes 38 minutes
to make a 5 cm diameter item with 10 parts. How long does it take to make a 4 cm
diameter item with 12 parts?


ISBN 978-1-107-56765-8
Evans et al. 2016
Review

8
The cost of decorative wrought iron is the sum of two parts which vary as the length
and the square of the length respectively. When the length is 2 m, the cost is $18.40,
and when the length is 3 m, the cost is $33.60. Find the cost when the length is 5 m.
The sum of the first n natural numbers is equal to the sum of two quantities, the first
of which is proportional to n and the second to n2 . Work out the sums of the first three
and the first four natural numbers, and hence find the formula for the sum of the first n
natural numbers.
10
Data about the number of pies sold at football matches and the size of the crowds
attending has been recorded as follows.
Attendance (N 1000)
20
30
60
Number of pies sold (P)
15 650
19 170
27 110
a Use a CAS calculator to find an approximate relationship between N and P of the

form P = aN b .
b The crowd predicted for a forthcoming match is 55 000. Assuming the model found
in part a applies, how many pies would the caterers anticipate selling on that day?
c The caterers have only 25 000 pies available for sale. Again assuming the model
found in part a applies, what is the maximum crowd the caterers might be hoping for
if they are able to satisfy all customers wanting pies?
11
The effectiveness of an anaesthetic drug is being tested by varying the dose (d mL)
given to patients and recording both the time (t min) for the patient to lose consciousness and the time (T min) for the patient to regain consciousness. The following data
has been recorded.
Dosage (d mL)
10
30
60
Time to lose consciousness (t min)
36
Time to regain consciousness (T min)
14
126
504
a Establish the relationship between d and t. (Assume that t is proportional to a

power of d.)
b Establish the relationship between d and T . (Assume that T is proportional to a
power of d.)
c If it is desirable to have a particular patient unconscious for no longer than
80 minutes, what is the maximum dose of the drug that should be given?
d How long would it take that patient to lose consciousness?
e Another patient is given a dose of 20 mL. How long will it take for the patient to
lose consciousness and how long will they remain unconscious?


ISBN 978-1-107-56765-8
Evans et al. 2016
The German astronomer Johannes Kepler collected data on the mean distance from the
Sun to the planets (R 106 km) and the period of the orbit (T years). He was able to
establish a relationship between R and T .
a
i Using the data in the table (approximations only), establish the relationship
between R and T . (Assume that T is proportional to a power of R.)
ii Complete the table by finding the period of orbit of the remaining planets.
Planet
Approximate radius
of orbit (R 106 km)
Mercury
Review
12
Period of orbit
(T years)
58
0.24
Venus
108
0.61
Earth
150
Mars
228
Jupiter
779
Saturn
1427
Uranus
2870
Neptune
4497
b A comet orbits the Sun every 70 years. What is its radius of orbit?
13
To test the effectiveness of an advertising campaign for cheap flights to Hawaii, a travel
agent keeps a record of the number of enquiries she receives. It is estimated that the
number of enquiries, E, depends on the number of times, n, that the advertisement is
shown on television. The following data is collected.
Number of advertisements (n)
10
20
30
Number of enquiries (E)
30
40
47
a Assuming that the relationship between the number of enquiries and the number of
advertisements is modelled by the rule E = anb , use your CAS calculator to find
values for a and b.
b Predict the number of enquiries received if the advertisement is shown 100 times.
After two weeks, the advertisement has been shown 50 times and the advertising
campaign is stopped. However, the travel agent continues to receive enquiries. It is now
estimated that the number of enquiries, E, depends on the number of days, d, since the
advertising campaign stopped. The following data is collected.
Number of days (d)
10
Number of enquiries (E)
45
25
17
11
c Assuming that the relationship between the number of enquiries and the number of
days is modelled by E = kd p , use your CAS calculator to find values for k and p.
d Predict the number of enquiries received on the 14th day after the advertising
campaign finished.

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What are direct and inverse variation and how are they represented?

What are direct and inverse variation and how are they represented?

How can you determine the constant of variation?

How can you determine the constant of variation?

Chapter 3

To recognise relationships involving direct variation.

Cambridge Senior Maths AC/VCE

Cambridge University Press

It can be seen that, as t increases, d also increases. The

This is an example of direct variation, and 100 is the

We can say that the distance travelled varies directly

Rates are one of the most common examples of variation.

 Variation involving powers

Cambridge University Press

I Determining the constant of variation

When x = 2, y = 12, and so

When x = 6, y = 0.5 6 1.225

When x = 6, y = 3(6 ) = 108

To complete the table, consider the

To complete the table, consider the

Cambridge Senior Maths AC/VCE

Cambridge University Press

A wire of length 4.5 m has a resistance

A wire of resistance 3.8 ohms has a length

I Increasing and decreasing

Cambridge University Press

We can also say that y is proportional to x, and we can write y x.

If V r3 and V = 125 when r = 2.5, find:

Cambridge Senior Maths AC/VCE

Cambridge University Press

Cambridge University Press

 The variable y is said to vary inversely as x if y =

called the constant of variation.

Cambridge Senior Maths AC/VCE

Cambridge University Press

To complete the table, consider the

To complete the table, consider the

When h = 15, r = 4.2, and so

If r is reduced by 25%, set r = 0.75.

Hence h is increased by 77.8%.

A cylinder of radius 3.5 cm has a height

Cambridge Senior Maths AC/VCE

Cambridge University Press

Cambridge Senior Maths AC/VCE

Cambridge University Press

The intensity of illumination (I) of a light is inversely proportional to the square

The quotients are not all the same, and

The quotients are all equal to 3.

Cambridge University Press

Consider the product yx for the values given in the table.

Thus k = 30 and n = 1. Hence y =

origin. The gradient of this line will be the constant of variation k.

The graph is a straight line, and so it

Cambridge University Press

Number of calls (N)

Find a relationship between N and D using a CAS calculator.

Using the TI-Nspire

in lists xs and ys as shown.

 Insert a Data & Statistics page (

Variation involving powers

The variable y is said to vary inversely as x if y =

Insert a Data & Statistics page (

Click on the Click to add variable box and

Use menu > Analyze > Regression >

Enter the data values as shown.