Unit 1 - 1 The Straight Line

The distance formula Applications:

Calculating length of a line
( x2 − x1 )
2
+ ( y2 − y1 ) 2 Useful for showing triangles are isosceles or equilateral
Use to show that two sides of a shape have the same length.
derived using Pythagoras’ Theorem. Use in circles to calculate radius or diameter

The mid-point formula

This gives the mid-point M of A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2).
x +x y +y 
M 1 2 , 1 2  This is a simple average of the co-ordinates of A and B.
 2 2 

The gradient formula change in y from A to B

gradient =
change in x from A to B
y2 − y1
mAB = The gradient of AB is denoted by mAB
x2 − x1

Linking the gradient to the tangent where θ is the anti-clockwise angle from OX to AB
For a line sloping down from left to right,
mAB = tan θ θ is obtuse angle, tan θ is negative and so gradient is negative

Parallel and perpendicular lines If the gradients of two perpendicular lines are m1 and m2, then
Parallel: gradients are equal 1 a b
m1 = − if m1 = then m2 = −
Perpendicular: product of gradients = –1 m2 b a

Lines parallel to OX and OY

The gradient of a line parallel to the x-axis is 0
The gradient of a line parallel to the y-axis is undefined
gradient = 0 gradient = undefined

Applications of: m1 × m2 = -1 • Finding gradients and equations of perpendicular lines

• Finding equations of tangents to circles (perpendicular to radius)
• Showing that an angle is a right angle.
• Checking out properties of quadrilaterals
e.g.
rhombus – diagonals bisect at right angles
square, rectangle have corners at right angles
• Demonstrating symmetry.
• Finding equations of parallel and perpendicular lines.

Equation of a straight line If you have the equation in this form, then it is easy to sketch the graph:

y = mx + c You know the y-intercept: c

You know the gradient: m
where m = gradient and c = y-intercept

Collinearity To prove that 3 points, say P, Q and R are collinear –

If three points lie on the same straight line, (i) Show that the gradients PQ and QR are the same
(ii) State that the two line segments PQ and QR have a common point Q
they are said to be collinear. Failure to state (ii) will cost you marks !!!

Re-arranging equations Use the simple rules of algebra:

Equations of straight lines come in many forms: • Change side, change sign
y = 4x – 5 y + 4x = -5 • Multiply both sides by a constant
y + 4x + 5 = 0 2y + 8x + 10 = 0 • Divide both sides by a constant
are all the same equation.

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Unit 1 - 1 The Straight Line

Recognising equations of straight lines If there are any terms such as x2, x3, x4 or y2, y3, y4 terms etc
– it is NOT a straight line.
Straight lines only have x and y appearing with
e.g. y = x2 + 2 is not a straight line
no higher power than 1. x – y = 3 is a straight line

Equations of lines
parallel to OX and OY x=1 is a line parallel to the y-axis passing through x = 1
2 y=2 is a line parallel to the x-axis passing through y = 2
1

The equation of a line of gradient m When you do not have the y-intercept, but only the gradient and a point, you
through a point (a, b) should proceed as follows. Recall the gradient formula, you need two points on
the line to obtain the gradient.
y −b Since you have the gradient and a point, then to obtain the equation, choose
Use m=
x−a another general point (x, y). Use the gradient formula again in this form.
Example: Find the equation of the line with gradient 3, passing through P(1, 2)
or y − b = m ( x − a)
y−2 so 3(x – 1) = (y – 2) 3x – 3 = y – 2
3=
x −1
where m is the gradient and (a, b) the point
simplify ⇒ y = 3x -1 or y – 3x + 1 = 0 or y – 3x = -1

Intersecting Lines: To find the co-ordinates of the point where two lines intersect,
Treat the equations of the lines treat the equations of the lines as simultaneous equations and solve them.
as simultaneous equations. The solution (x, y) is the point of intersection

Some useful bits and pieces:

Median of a triangle - the line drawn from a vertex to the middle of the opposite side.
Altitude of a triangle – the line drawn from a vertex perpendicular to the opposite side. (Measures the height)
Perpendicular bisector of a line is a perpendicular line passing through the mid-point.
Perpendicular at right angles to
Intersect where lines cut each other
Bisect lines cut each other exactly in half.
Locus the path traced out according to some specified condition.
By using this condition, you can find the equation of this path which is called the locus.
Image of a line under reflection, translation or rotation is the position where line moves to under the transformation.

M e d ia n s A lt it u d e s P e rp e n d ic u la r b is e c to rs A n g l e b is e c t o r s

Gradients
m=
m=
m=
m = -1 m=
m=

135° 45°

negative zero positive undefined lines at 45° ~ gradients +1, -1 gradients relative to m = 1

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Unit 1 - 2.1 Composite and Inverse Functions

Definition of a function
A function is defined from a set A to a set B as
a rule which links each member of A to exactly 1 3 -2 4
2 6
one member of B. 2
3 9 0 0
4 12 1
Notation: 5 15 -1 1

y = f(x) or f : x → y ( f maps x to y )
Domain Range Domain Range
Domain and Range
f(x) = 3x or f : x → 3x g(x) = x2 or g : x → x2
The domain of a function is the input – the
variable the function operates upon.
The range of a function is the output – the
value of the function.

1
√x and k(x) =
Domain of h(x)=√
x −1
We write this as:
The largest domain of h(x) = √x is the set of real numbers greater than or equal to
∈ℜ : x ≥ o }
domain of h(x) is {x : x∈ zero, since you cannot take the square root of a negative number.
and: 1
The largest domain of k ( x ) = is the set of real numbers except x = 1
x −1
∈ℜ : x ≠ 1 }
domain of k(x) is: {x : x∈
(since this would make the denominator zero ~ you cannot divide by zero).
You should always be aware of the danger of
dividing by zero.

Undefined functions
f ( x) = ( x − 1) is undefined when x < 1
Functions may be undefined for particular (requires square root of negative number)
values of x ~ in particular:
• where you would need to take the 1 is undefined when x = 3
square root of a negative number
h( x ) =
x−3
• where you would need to divide by 0 ( results in division by zero ).

Related Functions Example: f(x) = 3x + 1 what is f(x+1)

2
Given f(x), what is f(x+1) or f(x ) or f(2x) etc. Solution: f(x+1) = 3(x+1) + 1 ⇒ 3x + 4

Example: h(x) = x2 – 3x what is h(2x)

To find f(x+1),
Solution: 2
h(2x) = (2x) – 3(2x) ⇒ 4 x2 – 6x
simply replace the ‘x’ in f(x) with ‘x+1’ etc.
Example: f(x) = 2x2 + 3x what is f(x+1)
and simplify.
Solution: f(x+1) = 2(x+1)2 + 3(x+1) ⇒ 2x2 + 7x + 5

Evaluating functions: Example: If f(x) = x2 + 3x – 1 Evaluate f(-1)

Given f(x), what is f(1) or f(0) or f(-2) etc. Solution: f(-1) = (-1 )2 + 3(-1) – 1 ⇒ -3
To evaluate a function f(x) at x = 2 (say),
calculate what the value of the function is when Example: If f(x) = 3x3 – 5x + 2 What is f(a)
3
you replace x by 2 Solution: f(a) = 3a – 5a + 2

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Unit 1 - 2.1 Composite and Inverse Functions

Recognising the domain and range of a Domain: Look for the input (the variable in the function – in f(x) the ‘x’ axis
function in g(t) the ‘t’ axis). This variable is known as the ‘independent variable’ since
you can choose any value in the domain.
Domain: the input Range Range: Look for the output or value of the function ( this is the value of f in
Range: the output f(x) or g in g(t) ). This variable is known as the ‘dependent variable’, as once
Domain you have chosen a value for x or t then f or g is determined by the function.

Examples of Range and Domain y y

y

x
x x

Domain: -2 ≤ x ≤ 3 -1 ≤ x ≤ 4 -1 ≤ x ≤ 3
Range: -1 ≤ y ≤ 6 -2 ≤ y ≤ 5 -3 ≤ y ≤ 12

Composite Functions NB: in general, f(g(x)) is NOT the same as g(f(x))

which you can demonstrate easily in the example on the left, since:
If f(x) = x – 3 and g(x) = x2 g(f(x)) = g(x – 3) = (x – 3)2 = x2 - 6x + 9
Then what is f(g(x))
Start from the outside function. f(…..) Example:
replace the ‘x’ with g(x) f(x) = x + 2 g(x) = 2x2
So we have f(g(x)) = f(x2) = (x2) – 3 Then f(g(x)) = f(2x2) = 2x2 + 2
⇒ f(g(x)) = x2 – 3 and g(f(x)) = g(x + 2) = 2(x + 2)2 = 2x2 + 8x + 8
Example:
x x ]
f ( x) = find f(f(x)) [ Hint: replace the x in f(x) with
x −1 x −1
x
x −1
so f(f(x)) = now simplify to get f(f(x)) = x
x
x −1
−1

Functions with inverses Example: If the original function is f(x) = 2x + 3

An inverse of a function, is a function that The function takes a number, doubles it and adds 3
‘undoes’ the operation of the original function. To undo this – we take the result, subtract 3 and then halve it.

For a function to have an inverse This means that for: every member of the domain, there is exactly ONE
corresponding member of the range and for every member of the range there is
the members of its domain and range must be in
exactly ONE corresponding member of the domain i.e. No duplicate values.
one-to-one correspondence.
Look at the following graphs – only one of them has an inverse
– can you see which one?

6 5
12

-2 0 2
-1 3 -1 4 -1 3
-3

Except for the straight line on the left, in each case, there are two or more values
in the domain, which have the same value in the range.
A quick way to check for an inverse on a graph is to slide a ruler horizontally
down. If it crosses the graph at more than one point, you have multiple domain
members corresponding to one range value.

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Unit 1 - 2.1 Composite and Inverse Functions

Finding inverse functions NB ⇔ means ‘implies and is implied by’

~ each implies the other - a two way process
If a function f which maps A to B has an
inverse function which we call f -1, Recall sin-1(x), cos-1 (x) and tan-1 (x) on your calculator – these are the inverse
functions of sin x, cos x and tan x.
then f takes x to y and f -1 takes y back to x.

So y = f (x) ⇔ x = f -1 (y)

Methods for finding inverse functions

Example: Find the inverse of f(x) = 4x

Method 1:
The function multiplied the input by 4, so to undo this we
Establish what the function does, then undo it.
−1 x
divide by 4 ~ hence f ( x) =
4

3x − 1
Sometimes it is more difficult to see the inverse: Example: Find the inverse of f ( x) =
2
In this case the number is multiplied by three,
one is subtracted, and the result divided by 2.
To undo this – start by: multiplying by two
−1
⇒ f ( x) = 2 x then add 1
⇒ f −1 ( x) = 2 x + 1 2x + 1
f −1 ( x ) =
finally divide by 3 ⇒ 3

Method 2: 3x − 1
Example: Find the inverse of f ( x ) =
2
Use the technique: 3x − 1
put y= then 2 y = 3 x − 1 and 2 y + 1 = 3 x
changing the subject of the formula. 2
Summary: 2 y +1
then x =
3
1. Change function to y = ….
2. Change the subject of the formula ~ the ‘x’ and ‘y’ are simply placeholders so switch the
3. Switch the x and y placeholders ‘x’ and ‘y’ labels and change it back to function notation.
4. Put back into function notation 2x + 1
– replace y with f -1(x) f −1 ( x) =
3
This method is much easier and less prone to error.

Graphs of Inverse functions.

The graph y = f -1(x) can easily be found by x
y = 4x
y=x
Example: f(x) = 4x then f −1 ( x ) =
reflecting the graph of y = f(x) in the line y = x 4
x
y=
4

y = f(x)
Note the reflection in y = x
This technique is useful for sketching
y = f -1(x)
graphs of inverse functions, and indeed
can also allow us to deduce what an
inverse function might be.

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Unit 1 - 2.2 Algebraic Functions and Graphs

Completing the square Example: Complete the square of 2x2 + 12x – 5

of the quadratic function
step 1. (
2 x2 + 6x − 5 ) ensure coefficient of x2 is 1

2 ( x + 3)
2
Method summary: step 2. forming the square ~ put x first and
1. Arrange for the coefficient of x2 to be 1 and half the coefficient of x in last place.
2. Form the square with an ‘x’ and ‘half the
coefficient of the x term’
step 3. {
2 ( x + 3) − 9
2
} subtract square of last term

3. Subtract the square of the last term taking and don’t forget the brackets !
care to include brackets
2 ( x + 3) − 18 − 5
2
step 4. add back the constant term
4. then add back the constant term
2 ( x + 3 ) − 23
2
then simplify

You can, of course, check by multiplying out:

2 ( x + 3) − 23
2
⇒ 2( x 2 + 6 x + 9) − 23 ⇒ 2 x 2 + 12 x − 5

Maximum and minimum values By completing the square, this allows us to find maximum and minimum values
of quadratic functions and the value of ‘x’ at which this occurs.
Complete the square and obtain a function in
the form of: f(x) = a(x + p)2 + q Example: By completing the square,
if ‘a’ is positive find the minimum value of x2 + 8x + 4
then since (x + p)2 is always positive, the and the value of x at which it occurs.
minimum value of the function will be
when (x + p)2 =0 Solution: x 2 + 8 x + 4 = ( x + 4) 2 − 16 + 4 = ( x + 4) 2 − 12
Minimum value = q when x = - p
( x + 4)
2
Minimum value is -12 when =0
if ‘a’ is negative
Minimum value = -12 when x = - 4
the function can be arranged as:
f(x) = q + a(x + p)2 and since ‘a’ is negative,
the term: a(x + p)2 will be subtracted
Maximum value = q when x = - p

Sketching the graph of quadratic Method: To sketch the graph of y = f(x) where f(x) is a quadratic function
functions 1. Find the intersection with the y-axis (by putting x = 0)
• Intersection with x, y axes 2. Find the intersection with the x-axis (by putting y = 0) (by solving the
equation f(x) = 0 ~ finding the roots)
• turning point 3. Find the turning point by completing the square (incl. y-co-ordinate)
• axis of symmetry 4. Note the turning point is on the axis of symmetry (half-way between the
two roots of the equation ~ step 2)
DO NOT PLOT the graph 5. Find y co-ordinate of the turning point by substitution in the equation
– you will be awarded NO MARKS for plotting 6. Using these points – sketch the graph – marking in co-ordinate values.
7. Show clearly any working you have done.

Sketching graphs of related functions Given y = f(x) then: (assuming a > 0 and k > 0)
• y = - f(x) This reflects the graph in the x-axis
If you have the graph of a function such as
y = f(x), then you can deduce and sketch • y = f(-x) This reflects the graph in the y-axis
the graph of a related function such as: • y = f(x + a) This slides the graph a units to the left
• y = f(x - a) This slides the graph a units to the right
• y = - f(x) • y = f(x) + k This slides the graph k units upwards
• y = f(-x) • y = f(x) – k This slides the graph k units downwards
• y = f(x ± a) These may be combined, for example:
• y = f(x) ± k y = f(x + a) – k would move graph a units to left then k units down.
or any combination of these transformations. The + k or – k added onto the end is the last operation to be done
Always show the images of any marked points.

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Unit 1 - 2.2 Algebraic Functions and Graphs

Examples of graphs of related functions

y = f(x) y = f(-x) y = -f(x)

(-3, 2) (3, 2)
(2, 1) (-2, 1)
(3, 0)
(3, 0)
(2, -1)
(-3, 0)
(-3, -2)

The exponential function and its graph The graph of the function
16
Any function of the form f ( x) = 4 x is shown here
12
f ( x) = a x where a > 0 and a ≠ 1
f (2) = 42 = 16 f (1) = 41 = 4 8
is called an exponential function with base a. 1
1
f (0) = 40 = 1 f   = 42 = 2 4
The graph of the function has equation y = ax 2
−1
f ( −1) = 4 = 0.25
Note: In all cases the graph passes through -1 1 2
(0, 1) since a0 = 1 for all values of a
and the line y = 0 is an asymptote to
the graph y = ax

Decreasing and increasing exponential

functions
y = ax
For the function f ( x) = a x a>1 y = ax
a<1
if a > 1
then the function is an increasing function. (0, 1) (0, 1)
if a < 1
then the function is a decreasing function.

Sketching graphs of exponential Example: Sketch the graph of f ( x) = 3x

functions
Method: The graph passes through (0, 1) f(x) = 3x
The graph must pass through (0, 1) It is increasing, since a = 3
Is it decreasing or increasing ( is a > 1 or a < 1 ) Choose x = 1 so f(x) = 3 (1, 3)
You have 2 points ~ (0, 1) and (1, 3)
Pick a suitable point (e.g. x = 1 or x = 2 ) to get (0, 1)
an idea of the steepness You know it is increasing

The Logarithmic Function and its Graph

f ( x) = a x has an inverse function f ( x) = log a x y = ax

These are related as follows: y=x

y = logax
y=a x
⇔ x = log a y
The graph of y = log a x is the mirror image
of the graph y = a x in the line y = x.
Note that the line x = 0 is
an asymptote to the graph y = loga x

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Unit 1 - 2.2 Algebraic Functions and Graphs

Special Logarithms Using the form: y = ax ⇔ x = log a y

y = ax ⇔ x = log a y (i) 1 = a0 i.e. y = 1 when x = 0 ⇔ 0 = loga 1
(ii) a=a 1
i.e. y = a when x = 1 ⇔ 1 = loga a
loga 1 = 0
(logarithm of 1 to any base is 0)
loga a = 1
(logarithm of a number to that base is 1)

Sketching graphs of Log functions Example: Sketch y = log3 x y = log3x

Using loga 1 = 0 log3 1 = 0 giving point (1, 0) (3, 1)

log3 3 = 1 giving point (3, 1) (1, 0)

and loga a = 1
we can obtain two points on the graph.

Example: Sketch y = log2 (x – 3)

log2 1 = 0 y = log2(x - 3)
When plotting loga(x – 2) or similar ⇒ (x – 3) = 1 (5, 1)
Choose a value of x to make (x – 2) equal to 0 so x = 4 giving point (4, 0) 3
(4, 0)
Choose a value of x to make (x – 2) equal to a log2 2 = 1
⇒ (x – 3) = 2
so x = 5 giving point (5, 1)
Note this confirms our previous knowledge of related functions
y = log2 (x – 3) is simply the graph of y = log2 x shifted 3 units to the right.
y = f(x) and the related function is y = f(x – 3)
Note also the asymptote at x = 3

Example:
A sketch of the graph y = a log4(x + b) is shown.
Find the values of a and b y = a log4(x + b)

(-2, 0) lies on the curve, so (1, 5)

0 = a log4 ( -2 + b) (-2, 0)

so b – 2 = 1, hence b=3

(1, 5) lies on the curve, so

5 = a log4 (1 + b), since b = 3
In all cases use the two special logarithms 5 = a log4 (4), now log4 4 = 1 so a = 5

log a 1 = 0 Example:
1
log a a = 1 Sketch y = log 3  
x
Choose values of x as appropriate Choose x = 1 (1 /3 , 1)
⇒ log3 1 = 0 giving point (1, 0)
(1, 0)
Choose x = 1
3
⇒ log3 3 = 1 giving point (1/3, 1)

Note that the term

1 results in a decreasing function
x
Consider what happens for large x and small x approaching zero

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Unit 1 - 2.3 Trigonometric Functions and Graphs

Radian measure r ∠ θ = 1 radian,

An angle of one radian is the angle subtended at r
θ θ° r
the centre of a circle by an arc of length equal r and =
to its radius.
O 360° 2π r
π radians = 180° 360
so θ° = 1 radian = approximately 57.3°
2π radians = 360° 2π

Changing between degrees and radians

Degrees Radians
π Use proportion based on π radians = 180°
30
6
π 180 180
45
4 1 radian = degrees so multiply your radians by to get degrees
π π π
60
3 π π
1 degree = radians so multiply your degrees by to get radians
π 180 180
90
2
2π
120
3
180
Note the top line of the multiplier: x gives degrees
3π π
135
4 π
x gives radians
180 π 180

Exact values for sin, cos and tan Recall the use of Pythagoras and SOHCAHTOA
for obtaining exact values for 30°, 45° and 60°.
π π π
Radians Use a square of side 1 and draw in a diagonal,
6 4 3 Use Pythagoras to calculate length of diagonal as √2
√2 1 1 cos 45° = 1
Hence sin 45° =
Degrees 30° 45° 60° 2 2
and tan 45° = 1

sin
1 1 3 1
2 2 2 Use an equilateral triangle of side 2 units.
1 1 Draw in the perpendicular from base to vertex.
3
cos giving 2 right angled triangles with angles of 30° and 60°
2 2 2 2 30° 2 and each with a base of 1 and hypotenuse of 2.
1 √3
tan 1 3 Again use Pythagoras to calculate the altitude as 3
3 60°
1 1
1 3 1
Hence sin 30° = cos 30° = tan 30° = etc.
You should be familiar with this table, if you cannot 2 2 3
memorise it, learn how to create it. Look for the symmetry. You must be able to work in radians as well as degrees.

Maximum and minimum values of • Consider the function f(x) = 2 + cos x

trigonometric functions
• The maximum value will occur when cos x is a maximum
• Look when the trig. function is +1 or –1
• The maximum value of cos x is 1 when x = 0° or 360°
• What value of x will cause this (or 0 and 2π radians)

• Evaluate the function for this x. • So the maximum value of the function will be 2 + 1 = 3
• Similarly the minimum value of the function will be 2 – 1 = 1
when x = 180° ( or π radians).
• In all cases look at when the sin or cos part of the function is at a
maximum or minimum.

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Unit 1 - 2.3 Trigonometric Functions and Graphs

Angles greater than 90°° Recall ‘All Sinners Take Care’

When considering angles in the 2nd 3rd and 4th quadrants, remember
S A the acute angle is always between the rotating arm and the x-axis.
Example:
T C 1
sin 135° related acute angle = 45° ~ sin 135° = + sin 45° =
2
shows where sine, cosine and tangent are positive.
tan 11π related acute angle = π ~ tan 11π = – tan π = 1
6 6 6 6 3

Sketching Trigonometric Graphs 2

p
2
p

a a y = a cos x
y = a sin nx y = a cos nx y = a sin x
3π
a = amplitude (max and min values of y) 2
π
π π x
π 3π x
n = number of waves in 360° or 2π 2
2 2

period of the graph is 360 ° or 2π radians

-a -a
n n

Solving Trigonometric Equations Reminder: when you have for example: cos θ = -0.5 or tan θ = -0.7

All these equations can ultimately be resolved Ignore the negative sign when getting the acute angle on your calculator.
into the form Use the negative sign to determine which quadrants the solutions are in.
sin ( ….. ) = constant
cos (……..) = constant
tan (……..) = constant However – first you have to get the equation into this form !
Once you have reached this form, you can
See below for strategies for the different types of equations.
generally find 2 solutions using ‘ASTC’.

1
Type 1: Solve 2 sin x = 1 0 ≤ x ≤ 360° Divide by 2 ⇒ sin x = obtain two solutions (30° and 150° )
2
1
Type 2: Solve √2 cos θ + 1 = 0 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π Re-arrange √2 cos θ = -1 hence cos θ = −
2

Type 3: Solve sin 3x = -1 0 ≤ x ≤ 360° The range becomes 0 ≤ 3x ≤ 1080° Now sin( ) = -1 at 270°
but to cover the range we need 270°, 270° + 360°, 270° + 720°
solutions are: x = 90°, 210°, 330°
In general if you have sin nx, cos nx, tan nx then multiply your range by n

1 1
Re-arrange to get: sin x = Taking square roots gives sin x = ±
2
Type 4: Solve 2sin2 x = 1 0 ≤ x ≤ 360° 2 2
Note now there are 2 equations to solve and you will obtain 4 solutions.
solutions are: x = 45°, 135° and x = 225° and 315°

Type 5: Solve 4sin2 x + 11 sin x + 6 = 0 A quadratic equation in sin x : Factorising ⇒ (4sin x + 3)(sin x + 2) = 0
reduces to 2 simpler equations. Solutions are: x = 3.99 or 5.43 radians
0 ≤ x ≤ 2π Note that sin x + 2 = 0 has no solutions so discard it.

Type 6: Solve sin2 x – cos x = 1 Use sin2 x + cos2 x = 1 (see table right) sin2 x + cos2 x = 1
Replace sin2 x with 1 - cos2 x
0 ≤ x ≤ 360° sin2 x = 1 – cos2 x
Now a quadratic in cos x: 1 - cos2 x - cos x = 1
Re-arrange and factorise: cos x ( cos x + 1) = 0 cos2 x = 1 – sin2 x
solutions: x = 90° and 270° or x = 180°

Type 7: Solve sin (2x – 20) ° = 0.5 Range becomes 0 ≤ x ≤ 720°

Now sin (…. ) = 0.5 ⇒ an acute angle of 30°
0 ≤ x ≤ 360°
so we have ( ……. ) = 30° or 150° or 390° or 510° (giving four solutions)
This gives four equations: like 2x – 20 = 30, 2x – 20 = 150, etc.
Solutions: x = 25°, 85°, 205°, 265°

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Unit 1 - 3.1 Introduction to Differentiation

The limit formula y Differentiation relates primarily to the

gradient of a graph or function
f ( x + h) − f ( x) y = f(x) (generally a curve).
f ′( x) = lim Q(x + h, f(x + h))
h →0 h A graph is a pictorial representation of a
T
function.
P(x, f(x))
We define this limit as f′(x) this is known as We are interested in the gradient of a
the gradient function or derived function curve (function), because the gradient is
a measure of the rate of change of the
We have differentiated f(x) and obtained f ′(x). x x+h x
function.
f ′(x) is the derivative of f(x). The gradient of a curve is continually changing as you move along the curve.
This is a function that allows us to calculate the The gradient of the curve at point P is defined as the gradient of the tangent to
gradient at any point x on the curve. the curve at P.

Calculating the gradient Example: Find the gradient on the curve f(x) = 2x2 + 3x + 5 at P(-2, 1)
at a point P (x, y) on the curve y = f(x) Solution: Differentiate ⇒ f′(x) = 4x + 3
• Differentiate the function f(x) to get f ′(x) Evaluate f′(-2) = 4(-2) + 3 ⇒ f′(-2) = –5
• Evaluate function f ′(x) at point P(x, y) Gradient at P(-2, 1) = –5

Rules for differentiation:

f(x) f ′(x) These rules work for any power of n - positive or negative, whole number or
fractional.
xn nxn-1
General Rule:
c (constant) 0 Put the power in front (multiply), and decrease the power by 1.

ax (a is a constant) a IMPORTANT:
You must have the function f(x) as a polynomial, a series of powers of x.
a xn a nxn-1
You cannot differentiate fractions, brackets or anything else directly at present.
f(x) + g(x) f ′(x) + g ′(x)
2
3x + 2x + 1 6x + 2

Indices: Recall rules of indices:

Also recall meaning of fractional and negative indices.
Rules of indices m
1 1
( x)
m
x −1 = x −n = xn = n
= xm
x xn
am x an = am+n
1 1 m
1 1 1
am ÷ an = am-n xn = n x x− n = x− n = =
( x)
n m n
x n xm
(an)m = anm = (am)n 1 1 1 1
n
= ⋅ n = x−n 3 3 1 3
= ⋅ n = x−n
2x 2 x 2 4x n
4 x 4

Leibnitz Notation:
dy or d df
(( f ( x)) or Use Leibnitz or Newtons notation depending upon the wording of the question.
dx dx dx
Both notations are equivalent.
Newton’s notation: f ′(x) or y ′(x) or y ′

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Unit 1 - 3.1 Introduction to Differentiation

Changing functions to straight line form Examples:

– or simple index form. Type 1: f (x) = x 2 + 3 change to f(x) = x2 + 3x-1 to differentiate
x
Fractional functions: 4 2
f(x) = x + 2 x + 3
4 2
either: Type 2: change to f(x) = x + 2 x + 3
• express in index notation, or x x x x
• put into separate fractions −1
then simplify to x + 2 x + 3x
3
(straight line form)

Finding the gradient of the tangent Example: Find the gradient of the tangent to f(x) = 3x3 – 5x + 2 at P(2, 1)
to a curve at P(a, b): Solution: Differentiate ⇒ f′(x) = 9x2 – 5

• Differentiate to get dy or f′(x) Evaluate at P(2, 1)

dx f′(2) = 9(2)2 – 5 = 36 – 5 = 31

• Evaluate gradient function dy at P Hence gradient of tangent at P(2,1) = 31

dx

Finding the equation of the tangent: Find gradient by differentiation and evaluation.
Find the y co-ordinate of the point by putting x co-ordinate into original equation.
• Find gradient.
y − y1
• Find the y co-ordinate of point if not Use formula for the equation: =m or y − a = m ( x − b)
x − x1
given.
Example: Find equation of the tangent to y = x2 + 3 at x = 2
• Use gradient formula for equation: dy
y − y1 Solution: Gradient of tangent is = 2 x when x = 2 gradient = 4
=m dx
x − x1
When x = 2, y = (2)2 + 3 = 7
Hence equation is: y – 7 = 4 ( x – 2 ) ⇒ y – 4x + 1 = 0

Find point on curve where tangent has a Example: Find the point on the curve y = 2x2 + 1 where gradient = 5
given gradient (say gradient to be 3 ) dy
Solution: Gradient function of curve is = 4x + 1
dx
• Find gradient function by differentiation dy
When gradient = 5, = 5 thus, 4x + 1 = 5, so x = 1
• Put gradient function = 3; solve equation. dx
• Get y co-ordinate from original equation. When x = 1, y = 2 (1)2 + 1 = 3 Hence point is (1, 3)

Graphs of derived functions Step 1. Locate the point(s) where the gradient of the function is ZERO
(i.e. a turning point) – mark these points on the x-axis.
The derived function f ′(x) is the function Note either side of the point whether gradient is positive or negative
resulting from differentiating f(x) Step 2. Sketch the derived function – it must be below the x axis where you
To sketch the derived function: deduced the gradient was negative and above the x axis where the
gradient was positive – What will fit ?
Method:
Consider the form of the derived function by differentiation
Step 1. Mark the zeros on the x-axis – is it a straight line, quadratic, cubic etc.
Note sign of gradient either side of
step 1 step 2
zeros. y = f(x) y = f(x)

Step 2. Sketch the derived function – it must

be below the x axis where the gradient (2, 1) (2, 1)
was negative and above the x axis x x x x
where the gradient was positive –
(-1, -1) (-1, -1)
What will fit ?

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Unit 1 - 3.2 Using Differentiation

Finding Stationary points and their

nature
Example: Find the stationary points of y = x3 + 3x 2 − 9 x + 1
and determine their nature.
• Differentiate to find the gradient function
dy
• For a stationary point, dy/dx or f’(x) = 0 Differentiate to get: = 3x2 + 6 x − 9
dx
• Solve the equation to find the x co-ordinate(s) dy
For a s.p. =0 so 3 x 2 + 6 x − 9 = 0 or x2 + 2x - 3 = 0
• Substitute into the original equation y = or dx
f(x) = to get the y co-ordinate(s) hence (x - 1)(x + 3) = 0 so s.p. occur when x = 1 or x = -3

• Determine the nature of each stationary point now find y co-ordinates: when x = 1 y = (1)3 + 3(1)2 – 9(1) + 1 = 6
using a table of signs as shown in the when x = -3 y = (-3)3 + 3(-3)2 -9(-3) + 1 = 28
example.
So stationary points are (1, 6) and (-3, 28)
When checking for the nature – use any
Now check for their nature. Using the factorisation in dy/dx
factorisation that you have for dy
dx x → -3 → 1 →
If you try to deduce the signs from a complicated
expression, you will probably get it wrong. (x-1) - ↓ - ↓ +

In each case you are looking either to the left or the (x+3) - ↓ + ↓ +
right of the stationary point.
dy
+ 0 - 0 +
Minimum S.P. have signs: – 0 + dx

Maximum S.P. have signs: +0–

Points of Inflexion have signs: – 0 – or + 0 +
max min

Hence stationary points are: (1, 6) minimum and (-3, 28) maximum

The interval on which the function is

increasing or decreasing. In the above example:

To determine the interval on which the function The function is increasing for: x < -3 and x > 1
is increasing or decreasing, you need to look at and decreasing for: -3 < x < 1
the stationary points and the gradient on each
side of them.
Where the gradient is positive, You need the stationary points to determine the length of the interval.
the function is increasing.
Where the gradient is negative,
the function is decreasing.
Where the gradient is zero,
then the function is stationary!

Maximum and minimum value on a To determine the maximum and minimum value on a closed interval:
closed interval • Find the stationary points of the function
If a closed interval is specified for a graph, then • If any lie outside the interval, discard them
• Check the S.V. of each stationary point (i.e. y co-ordinate)
the maximum and minimum value of the
• Check the value of the function at each end of the interval.
function will either be at a stationary point OR
• State the maximum and minimum value of the function on this interval.
one of the end points of the graph.
Example: Find the maximum and minimum value of y = x3 on [1, 3]
dy for a S.P. dy = 0 so 3x2 = 0 hence x = 0 (outside of interval)
= 3x2
dx dx
Now check ends of interval [1, 3] y(1) = 1 and y(3) = 27
3
Hence on the interval [1, 3], y = x has max value of 27 and min value of 1

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Unit 1 - 3.2 Using Differentiation

Curve sketching Detailed explanation:

A practical application of maximum and Find points of intersection with x and y axes:
minimum. for intersection with y axis ~ put x = 0
for intersection with x axis ~ put y = 0 and solve the equation.
• Points of intersection with x and y axes:
Find the stationary points and their nature
• Find stationary points using differentiation Differentiate and put dy/dx = 0, solve the equation to get x co-ordinates
Substitute into original equation to get y co-ordinates
• Find y co-ordinates by substitution
Determine nature of stationary point(s) using table of signs.
• Nature of S.P. using table of signs.
Behaviour for large positive and negative x
• Behaviour for large values of + and – x Look at behaviour of the graph for large values of positive and negative x
Approximate – what does the curve behave like
• Any useful points on the graph. 1 1
e.g. y = x3 + 2x + /x behaves as x3 for large x and /x as x → 0
• Sketch (DO NOT PLOT) the graph.
Consider any other particular points on the graph. e.g. x = 0 or x = 1 (say)

Problem solving Example:

A rectangle has length x cm and breadth y cm and perimeter p cm. Its area is
• Mathematical modelling. 100 cm2. Find the length and breadth of the rectangle with the smallest perimeter.
• Use constraints to make an equation.
Solution:
• Look for a maximum or minimum.
Since we want to find the smallest perimeter, we need an expression for the
Method: perimeter.
Make an equation to represent the model – you will P = 2x + 2y This is our model with two unknowns.
have two unknowns at this stage.
We now need to use the constraint to reduce it to one unknown.
Your constraint will connect these two unknown Area = xy 100 = xy so y = 100 now replace y in our equation for P
variables. x
Using your constraint, obtain a function with only 200 we want to find a value for x to make perimeter P a minimum.
P = 2x +
one variable. x
P = 2 x + 200 x −1 differentiating ⇒ dP
Differentiate and find any stationary points – = 2 − 200 x −2
generally there will only be one. dx
200
Find the nature of the stationary point (max or min) For a s.p. dy = 0 hence 0 = 2− ⇒ 2 x 2 = 200 ⇒ x 2 = 100
using table of signs. dx x2

The value of stationary point will cause the model to so x = +10 or x = -10 (this last solution is not possible, so discard it).
have a maximum or minimum value.
hence our S.P. is when x = 10. Using our constraint, we find that y = 10 also.
Interpret your solution into the form of the question.
We should verify that this is a minimum by using the table of signs.
Hence dimensions of the rectangle are 10cm × 10cm for minimum perimeter.

Rate of Change Velocity and acceleration

The rate of change of y with respect to x is A point P moving along the x axis has a displacement x (OP) from the
origin O at time t. We can model this as: x = f(t)
dy
given by:
dx The velocity of the point P is the rate of change of its displacement x at
dx
Negative rate of change means function is time t, given by v =
decreasing dt
Positive rate of change means that it is The acceleration of P is the rate of change of its velocity v at time t,
increasing.
dv
given by: a=
dt

Note: When using velocity and acceleration remember that they are vectors and have direction as well as magnitude.
When using them vertically as in height problems, the greatest height reached is when the velocity = 0
When the acceleration = 0, the object is moving at constant velocity.

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Unit 1 - 4 Sequences

Formula for nth term

Given a formula for the nth term, we can e.g. un = 3n + 2
calculate all the terms. start with n = 1 giving u1 = 5, u2 = 8, u3 = 11 etc.

Conversely given a sequence, we can find a e.g. 5, 9, 13, 17, 21 ….

formula for its nth term. It goes up in multiples of 4 (we add 4 on each time)
so start off with un = 4n
However it is not the 4 times table – it is offset by 1 more
So the nth term is given by un = 4n + 1
Now check to see if this generates the sequence.

Recurrence Relations
If we are given the first term of a sequence and e.g. If the recurrence relation is un+1 = un + 7 all this means is:- add 7 to the any
a rule for calculating un+1 from un, we can term in the sequence to get the next term in the sequence.
calculate all of its terms.
If the 2nd term is 12 i.e. u2 = 12 then u3 = u2 + 7 or u3 = 12 + 7 = 19
The recurrence relation is the rule for
calculating the n+1th term from the nth term. In general - given the first term and the recurrence relation, we can generate all
the terms of the sequence:
e.g. u1 = 5 and un+1 = 2un + 3
This will generate the sequence: 5, 13, 29, 61, …..

Conversely, given the sequence, it may be possible to define it by giving the first
term and the recurrence relation (the relationship between un+1 and un ).
e.g. 13, 10, 7, 4, ….. first term is 13
rule is: subtract 3 to get next term. so: u1 = 13 un+1 = un -3

Forming recurrence relationships Example: A mushroom bed has 60 mushrooms. Each morning the number has
modelling a real-life situation. doubled, and the gardener picks 50 mushrooms.
Start from day n – there are un mushrooms
Look at the next day - there are twice as many 2un
but the gardener has picked 50
so there will be 2un – 50 mushrooms.
So: un+1 = 2un – 50

Example: There are 3 trees in Jim’s garden.

He plants 2 more trees each day for the next 6 days.
Take un trees to be the number of trees after n days,
(This means that that original number of 3 trees is u0 ~ u0 = 3)
Then: un+1 = un +2

Linear Recurrence Relations

These are of the form: un+1 = mun + c (compare with y = mx + c).
where m and c are constants
Special sequences are obtained if m = 1 or c = 0 if m = 1 you get an arithmetic sequence
if c = 0 you get a geometric sequence

Arithmetic Sequences
If m = 1 in the recurrence relation the difference between successive terms in the sequence is the constant c.
This is an arithmetic sequence.
un+1 = mun + c then un+1 = un + c We are just adding on c each time.

e.g. un+1 = un + 2
if u1 = 3 then the sequence generated is 3, 5, 7, 9, ….

Note the constant 2 being added on for each successive term.

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Unit 1 - 4 Sequences

Geometric Sequences
If c = 0
In other words the ratio of successive terms is constant.
in the recurrence relation un+1 = mun + c This is an geometric sequence.
We are just multiplying by m each time..
then un+1 = mun
~ each term is multiplied by a constant m e.g. un+1 = 3un if u1 = 2 then the sequence generated is 2, 6, 18, 54, ……

Examples of Geometric Sequences

Example 1:
Every year a typical bag of groceries rises in
price by 5%. Its initial value V0 is £20 Current years price is 5% more than last year

Describe the price by a recurrence relation. Vn+1 = 1.05Vn and V0 = 20

Example 2:
There are 40 fish in a pond, 10% are eaten but If 10% are eaten then 90% are left for the next day
3 new ones are born every day. The recurrence relation is un+1 = 0.9un + 3 where u0 = 40
Describe this by a recurrence relation. (u0 in this case because it is an initial condition).

Example 3:
A sequence is generated by the recurrence The sequence generated is: 2, 6, 10, 14, …..
relation, the nth term being un Note that a term u0 would not make sense in this example.
un+1 = 4un – 2 u1 = 2

When expressing a recurrence relation – write In general u0 is an initial condition before the recurrence relation starts.
down the relation AND the first term u0 or u1 u1 is the first term of the recurrence relation.
as appropriate. Effectively it depends upon how you define un

Examples forming recurrence relations:

un is the number of bacteria in a culture after n

hours. At present there are 100 but their number
doubles after each hour. un+1 = 2un u0 = 100

An office plant is 150cm tall and its height

increases each month by 5% of its height at the
beginning of the month.
Hn is the height after n months. Hn+1 = 1.05un H0 = 150 cm

Jim is a salesman, travelling 300 km per week.

His mileometer reads 9350 when he begins
Rn is the reading after n weeks. Rn+1 = Rn + 300 R0 = 9350

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Unit 1 - 4 Sequences

Finite and Infinite Sequences Examples:

1 as n → ∞ 1 → 0 and so u → 2
A finite sequence has a finite number of terms – 1. un = 2 − n
n2 n2
there are a fixed number of terms in the
sequence. 2. un = 1 − (0.5)n as n → ∞ (0.5)n → 0 and so un →
An infinite sequence has an unlimited number
of terms, they continue on forever. 3. 2n + 1 we need to re-arrange this to:
un =
n
If the nth term tends to a limiting value as n gets 2n 1 1
very large (i.e. n tends to infinity n → ∞ ) the un = + ⇒ un = 2 + and as n → ∞ un → 2
n n n
sequence is convergent – it converges to a limit.
4. n slightly trickier here the following technique is useful:
un =
n +1
the denominator n may be written as n = n + 1 – 1

so we get: u = n + 1 − 1 ⇒ u = n + 1 − 1 ⇒ un = 1 −
1
n
n +1
n
n +1 n +1 n +1
and so as n→∞ un → 1

The Geometric Sequence

If a geometric sequence is written un+1 = run Can we find an expression to allow us to calculate Sn easily ?
where r is the multiplier each time This time we use a different technique. Multiply the series by r, giving us:
and u1 = a (the first term) rSn = ar + ar2 + ar3 + ……… + arn
{we call r the common ratio}
Now subtract this series from the original one, term by term,
We can write the sequence out as: Sn - rSn = a + ar + ar2 + ar3 + ……… + arn-1
a, ar, ar2 , ar3, ………. arn-1 (nth term ) - { ar + ar2 + ar3 + ……… + arn }
Define the sum to n terms, Sn as Notice that all the underlined terms cancel out, leaving us with:
Sn = a + ar + ar2 + ar3 + ……… + arn-1 Sn - rSn = a - arn which we can factorise as Sn (1 − r ) = a(1 − r n )
a (1 − r n ) a (1 − r n )
Then: Sn = re-arrange to get: Sn = a is the first term and r is the common ratio.
(1 − r ) (1 − r )

If -1 < r < 1 as n → ∞ rn → 0
and so the sum Sn will tend to a limit.
a
The limit of Sn as n → ∞ will be S n =
1− r

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Unit 1 - 4 Sequences

The linear recurrence relation

un+1 = mun + c with m ≠ 1 and c ≠ 0

Example:
A loch contains 10 tonnes of toxic waste. Tidal The recurrence relation modelling this is: un+1 = 0.5un + 8 u0 = 10
action removes 50% of the waste each week, If we write down the first few terms in the sequence we find:
but a local factory discharges 8 tonnes of waste
into the loch at the end of each week. un is the u0 = 10, u1 = 13, u2 = 14.5, u3 = 15.25, u4 = 15.625, u5 = 15.8125 ….
amount of waste in the loch after n weeks. It seems to be levelling off at 16 tonnes.
In general: Limits: If -1 < m < 1 then un+1 and un will each tend to a limit L

For a recurrence relation un+1 = mun + c So in un+1 = 0.5un + 8 we can say L = 0.5L + 8
Provided m is a fraction i.e. -1 < m < 1 and so L – 0.5L = 8 L(1 – 0.5) = 8
then a limit L exists 8 8
L= ⇒ L= L = 16 as deduced above.
and we can replace un+1 and un by L 1 − 0.5 0.5
L = mL + c re-arranging gives L – mL = c
c
hence L(1 – m) = and so L =
1− m
This is an important result.

Examples:
A mushroom bed has 1000 mushrooms ready Recurrence relation: Mn+1 = 0.4Mn + 200 (60% picked ⇒ 40% left)
for picking. Each morning 60% of the crop are multiplier m is a fraction so a limit exists i.e. Mn+1 and Mn → L
picked. Each night another 200 are ready for
picking. Let Mn be the number ready for So L = 0.4L + 200 L – 0.4L = 200 0.6L = 200 L = 333.33….
picking after n days. In the long term, the number of mushrooms ready for picking will settle out at
Write down the recurrence relation, find the limit of around 333.
the sequence explaining what it means in the context (In this case it will drop down to 333 since the initial condition was 1000
of this question. mushrooms).

Example:
Recurrence relation: Bn+1 = 0.9Bn + 30 (10% leaving ⇒ 90% left)
Dr Sharma is studying a flock of 200 birds.
Every minute 10% of the birds leave the flock multiplier m is a fraction so a limit exists i.e. Bn+1 and Bn → L
and 30 birds return. Let Bn be the number of c and so 30 L = 300
birds in the flock at the end of minute n. This time we will use the result: L = L=
1− m 1 − 0.9
Write down the recurrence relation, find the limit of
In the long term, the number of birds in the flock will settle out at around 300
the sequence explaining what it means in the context
of this question. (In this case it will rise to 300 since the initial condition was 200 birds)

It is important to be very careful in how you phrase Example:

an answer to the common question:
Consider the recurrence relation: un+1 = 0.5un + 100 and u0 = 500
“Explain what the limit means in the context c 100
of this question” Limit will be: L = and L = L = 200
1− m 1 − 0.5
The safest wording is that “The number of …… will
settle out at around …..” in this case the sequence drops down to this limit.
1. Since it will never actually get there (the limit is
only achieved when n is infinite)
If we have un+1 = 0.5un + 100 and u0 = 50 i.e. the initial value is 50
2. If you do not know the initial condition, then
you do not know whether the sequence is then the sequence would rise up to the limit.
decreasing down to the limit or increasing up to
In all cases:
the limit.
3. If the multiplier is negative, then the sequence Think through the implications of the questions, these are practical examples
will oscillate on both sides of the limit. modelling real-life situations.

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