Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

Worked solutions
Chapter 6 Further applications of
differentiation
Exercise 6.1 The derivative and curve sketching
TF Technology free question

x ) x ( x − 1) . Use calculus to locate any stationary points and determine

Consider the function f (=
2
TF 1
their nature. Then sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , showing all key features.

Worked solution
f (=
x ) x ( x − 1)
2

Use the product rule to determine f ′ ( x ) .

Let u ( x ) = x and v ( x=
) ( x − 1)
2
.

Therefore u ′ ( x ) = 1 and v′ (=
x ) 2 ( x − 1) .

f ′ ( x ) u ( x ) v′ ( x ) + v ( x ) u ′ ( x )
=
= x × 2 ( x − 1) + ( x − 1) (1)
2

= 2 x ( x − 1) + ( x − 1)
2

( x − 1)( 2 x + x − 1)
=
( x 1)( 3x − 1)
=−

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

( x 1)( 3x − 1)
0 =−

1
x = 1 or x =
3
Substitute these values into f ( x ) .

f (1=
) 1(1 − 1)
2

=0
The coordinates of the stationary point are (1, 0 ) .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
2
1 11 
f =  − 1
3 33 
2
1 2
= − 
3 3
1 4
= ×
3 9
4
=
27
1 4 
The coordinates of the stationary point are  ,  .
 3 27 
1 4 
Because f ( x ) is a positive cubic,  ,  is a maximum and (1, 0 ) is a minimum.
 3 27 
The y-intercept occurs where x = 0 .
f (=
0 ) 0 ( 0 − 1)
2

=0
The coordinates of the y-intercept are ( 0, 0 ) .

The x-intercepts occur where f ( x ) = 0 .

x ( x − 1) = 0
2

x = 0 or x = 1
The coordinates of the x-intercepts are ( 0, 0 ) and (1, 0 ) .

Answer

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

−2 x ( x + 2 ) . Use calculus to locate any stationary points and determine

Consider the function f ( x ) =
2
TF 2
their nature. Then sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , showing all key features.

Worked solution
f ( x) =
−2 x ( x + 2 )
2

Use the product rule to find f ′ ( x ) .

Let u ( x ) = −2 x and v ( x=
) ( x + 2)
2
.

Therefore u ′ ( x ) = −2 and v′ (=
x ) 2 ( x + 2) .

f ′ ( x ) u ( x ) v′ ( x ) + v ( x ) u ′ ( x )
=
( 2 x ) ( 2 ( x + 2 ) ) + ( x + 2 ) ( −2 )
2
=−
−4 x ( x + 2 ) − 2 ( x + 2 )
2
=
= ( x + 2 ) ( −4 x − 2 ( x + 2 ) )
= ( x + 2 )( −6 x − 4 )
−2 ( x + 2 )( 3 x + 2 )
=

To determine stationary points, let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

−2 ( x + 2 )( 3 x + 2 )
0=
2
x=
−2 or x =
−
3
Substitute these values into f ( x ) .

f ( −2 ) =−2 × ( −2 )( −2 + 2 )
2

=0
2
 2  2  2 
f  −  =−2 ×  −   − + 2 
 3  3  3 
2
44
=  
33
4 16
= ×
3 9
64
=
27
 2 64 
Because f ( x ) is a negative cubic,  − ,  is a maximum and ( −2, 0 ) is a minimum.
 3 27 
The y-intercept occurs where x = 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

f ( 0 ) =−2 × 0 × ( 0 + 2 )
2

=0
The coordinates of the y-intercept are ( 0, 0 ) .

The x-intercepts occur where y = 0 .

−2 x ( x + 2 ) = 0
2

x = 0 or x = −2
The coordinates of the x-intercepts are ( 0, 0 ) and ( −2, 0 ) .

Answer

( x − 2 )( x − 3) .
2
TF 3 Consider the function y =

(a) Where does the graph of the function have a local maximum?

A x=3 B x= −
5
C x=
7
D x=
5
2 3 2
Worked solution
f ( x) =( x − 2 )( x − 3)
2

Let u ( x )= x − 2 and v ( x=
) ( x − 3)
2
.

Therefore u ′ ( x ) = 1 and v′ (=
x ) 2 ( x − 3) .

f ′ ( x ) u ( x ) v′ ( x ) + v ( x ) u ′ ( x )
=
= ( x − 2 ) × 2 ( x − 3) + ( x − 3) × 1
2

= 2 ( x − 2 )( x − 3) + ( x − 3)
2

= ( x − 3)  2 ( x − 2 ) + ( x − 3) 
( x − 3)( 2 x − 4 + x − 3)
=
( x 3)( 3x − 7 )
=−

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

( x − 3)( 3x − 7 ) =
0

7
x = 3 or x =
3
7
Stationary points occur at x = 3 and x = .
3
As f ( x ) is a positive cubic, the local maximum will be the left-hand turning point.

7
( x − 2 )( x − 3) has a local maximum at x =
2
The graph of y = .
3
The correct option is C.
Answer
C

(b) Explain the common error made by a student who chose the third incorrect option.
Worked solution
5
The third incorrect option is D: x = .
2
The x -intercepts are ( 2,0 ) and ( 3,0 ) .

5
Halfway between these is the vertical line x = .
2
For a parabola, the turning point would be on this line.
For a cubic, this is not the case.
Answer
For cubics, there is no axis of symmetry between the x-intercepts.

TF 4 Consider the function f ( x ) =− x3 − 6 x 2 − 9 x − 4 . Use calculus to locate any stationary points and
determine their nature. Then sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , showing all key features.

Worked solution
f ( x) =− x3 − 6 x 2 − 9 x − 4

f ′( x) =
−3 x 2 − 12 x − 9
= (
−3 x 2 + 4 x + 3 )
−3 ( x + 3)( x + 1)
=

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

−3 ( x + 3)( x + 1) =
0

x = −3 or x = −1
f ( −3) =− ( −3) − 6 ( −3) − 9 ( −3) − 4
3 2

= 27 − 54 + 27 − 4
= −4
f ( −1) =− ( −1) − 6 ( −1) − 9 ( −1) − 4
3 2

=1 − 6 + 9 − 4
=0
Because this is a negative cubic, ( −3, − 4 ) is a minimum and ( −1, 0 ) is a maximum.

The y -intercept occurs where x = 0 .

f ( 0 ) =−03 − 6 × 02 − 9 × 0 − 4
= −4
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, −4 ) .

The x -intercepts occur when f ( x ) = 0 .

( −1, 0 ) is an x -intercept.
It is a stationary point, so will give a squared factor.
f ( x) =− x3 − 6 x 2 − 9 x − 4
= (
− x3 + 6 x 2 + 9 x + 4 )
=− ( x + 1) ( x + kx + 4 )
2

Equating coefficients:
− ( x 2 + kx 2 ) =
−6 x 2
− ( k + 1) x 2 =−6 x 2
k +1 =6
k =5
Therefore:
f ( x) = (
− ( x + 1) x 2 + 5 x + 4 )
− ( x + 1)( x + 1)( x + 4 )
=
− ( x + 1) ( x + 4)
2
=

The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −4, 0 ) and ( −1, 0 ) .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer

TF 5 Consider the function f defined by f ( x ) =− x3 − 12 x 2 − 48 x − 56 . Use calculus to locate any

stationary points and determine their nature. Then sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , showing all key
features.
Worked solution
f ( x) =− x3 − 12 x 2 − 48 x − 56

f ′( x) =
−3 x 2 − 24 x − 48
= (
−3 x 2 + 8 x + 16 )
−3 ( x + 4 )
2
=

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

−3 ( x + 4 ) = 0
2

x = −4

f ( −4 ) =− ( −4 ) − 12 ( −4 ) − 48 ( −4 ) − 56
3 2

=64 − 192 + 192 − 56

=8
The coordinates of the stationary point of inflection are ( −4, 8 ) .

f ( 0 ) = −56

The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, −56 ) .

Because the stationary point is a point of inflection, the function has only one x -intercept,
which will occur where f ( x ) = 0 .
By trial and error:

f ( −2 ) =− ( −2 ) − 12 ( −2 ) − 48 ( −2 ) − 56
3 2

=8 − 48 + 96 − 56
=0
The coordinates of the x -intercept are ( −2, 0 ) .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer

1 3
6 Consider the function g ( x ) = x + 4x2 + 7 x − 9 .
3

(a) Use calculus to determine the exact coordinates of the stationary points on the graph of
y = g ( x) .

Worked solution
1 3
g ( x) = x + 4x2 + 7 x − 9
3
g ′ ( x ) = x2 + 8x + 7
( x + 7 )( x + 1)
=

Let g ′ ( x ) = 0 .

( x + 7 )( x + 1) =
0

x = −7 or x = −1
1
g ( −7 ) = ( −7 ) + 4 ( −7 ) + 7 ( −7 ) − 9
3 2

3
343
= − + 196 − 49 − 9
3
71
=
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1
g ( −1) = ( −1) + 4 ( −1) + 7 ( −1) − 9
3 2

3
1
=− + 4 − 7 − 9
3
37
= −
3
 71   37 
The coordinates of the stationary points are  −7,  and  −1, −  .
 3  3 
Answer
 71   37 
 −7,  and  −1, − 
 3  3 

(b) Sketch the graph of y = g ( x ) , labelling the exact coordinates of the stationary points and the
intercepts with the axes, correct to 2 decimal places where necessary.
Worked solution
For a positive cubic, the left-hand turning point will be a local maximum.
 71   37 
 −7,  will be a maximum and  −1, −  will be a minimum.
 3  3 
g ( 0 ) = −9

The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, −9 ) .

Using technology to read the points off the graph, gives the x -intercepts as ( −9.49, 0 ) ,
( −3.36, 0 ) and ( 0.85, 0 ) .

Answer

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Use the graph to determine the values of x for which g (x) is an increasing function and the
values for which it is a decreasing function.
Worked solution
From the graph:
g ( x ) is increasing for x < −7 and x > −1 .

g ( x ) is decreasing for −7 < x < −1 .

Answer
increasing: x < −7 and x > −1 ; decreasing: −7 < x < −1

1
7 Consider the function g defined by g ( x ) =
− x3 − x 2 + 8 x − 2 .
3

(a) Use calculus to determine the exact coordinates of the stationary points on the graph of
y = g ( x) .

Worked solution
1
g ( x) =
− x3 − x 2 + 8 x − 2
3
g′ ( x) =− x2 − 2x + 8
= (
− x2 + 2x − 8 )
=− ( x + 4 )( x − 2 )

Let g ′ ( x ) = 0 .

− ( x + 4 )( x − 2 ) =
0

x = −4 or x = 2
1
g ( −4 ) =− ( −4 ) − 4 ( −4 ) + 8 ( −4 ) − 2
3 2

3
64
= − 16 − 32 − 2
3
86
= −
3
 86 
A stationary point is located at  −4, −  .
 3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1 3
g ( 2) = − ( 2 ) − 22 + 8 ( 2 ) − 2
3
8
=− − 4 + 16 − 2
3
22
=
3
 86   22 
The stationary points are  −4, −  and  2,  .
 3  3 
Answer
 86   22 
 −4, −  and  2, 
 3  3 

(b) Sketch the graph of y = g ( x ) , labelling the exact coordinates of the stationary points and the
intercepts with the axes, correct to 2 decimal places where necessary.
Worked solution
For a negative cubic, the left-hand turning point will be a local minimum.
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, − 2 ) .

Use technology to read the x -intercepts: ( −6.71, 0 ) , ( 0.26, 0 ) and ( 3.45, 0 ) .

Answer

TF 8 Consider the function f ( x ) =( x 2 − 4 )( x 2 − 16 ) .

(a) Use calculus to determine the exact coordinates of the stationary points on the graph of
y = f ( x) .

Worked solution
( )(
f ( x ) =x 2 − 4 x 2 − 16 )
Let u ( x=
) x 2 − 4 and v ( x=) x 2 − 16 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Therefore u ′ ( x ) = 2 x and v′ ( x ) = 2 x .

f ′ ( x ) u ( x ) v′ ( x ) + v ( x ) u ′ ( x )
=
( ) (
= x 2 − 4 ( 2 x ) + x 2 − 16 ( 2 x ) )
(
= 2 x x 2 − 4 + x 2 − 16 )
= 2 x ( 2 x − 20 )
2

= 4 x ( x − 10 )
2

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

(
4 x x 2 − 10 =
0 )
x = 0 or x = ± 10
f (0) =( 0 − 4 )( 0 − 16 )
( 4 )( −16 )
=−
= 64
f ( 10 ) =(10 − 4)(10 − 16)
= ( 6 )( −6 )
= −36

( )
f − 10 =(10 − 4 )(10 − 16 )
= ( 6 )( −6 )
= −36

(
The coordinates of the stationary points are − 10, − 36 , ( 0, 64 ) , ) ( 10, − 36 .)
Answer

(− )
10, − 36 , ( 0,64 ) and ( 10, − 36 )
(b) Sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , giving the exact coordinates of the stationary points and the
intercepts with the axes.
Worked solution
This is a positive quartic, so the middle stationary point will be the only local maximum
stationary point.
The y -intercept occurs where x = 0 :

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

(
f ( 0 ) =( 0 ) − 4
2
) (( 0) 2
− 16 )
= ( −4 ) × ( −16 )
= 64
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 64 ) .

The x -intercept occurs where f ( x ) = 0 :

(x 2
)(
− 4 x 2 − 16 =
0 )
x = ±2 or x = ±4
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −4, 0 ) , ( −2, 0 ) , ( 2, 0 ) and ( 4, 0 ) .

Answer

( x + 1)( 2 − x ) , showing the axis intercepts and the coordinates of any

3
9 Sketch the graph of y =
stationary points, correct to 2 decimal places.
Worked solution
The x -intercept occurs where y = 0 :

( x + 1)( 2 − x )
3
=0

x = −1 , x = 2
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −1, 0 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .

The repeated factor of ( x − 2 ) indicates that a stationary point of inflection exists at ( 2, 0 ) .

The y -intercept occurs where x = 0 .

f ( x) =( x + 1)( 2 − x )
3

f (0) =( 0 + 1)( 2 − 0 )
3

= (1)( 2 )
3

=8

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0,8 ) .
Use technology to sketch this graph and determine the coordinates of the maximum:
( −0.25,8.54 )
Answer

TF 10 At what value of x does the global maximum of the function f ( x ) = 2 x3 + x 2 − 4 x + 5 , for

−2 ≤ x ≤ 1, occur?

2 2
A x = −2 B x= − C x = −1 D x=
3 3
Worked solution
Calculate the coordinates of the right endpoint:

f (1) = 2 (1) + (1) − 4 (1) + 5

3 2

= 2 +1− 4 + 5
=4
The coordinates of the right endpoint are (1,4 ) .

The stationary points occur where f ′ ( x ) = 0 :

f ′ ( x ) = 6x2 + 2x − 4

6x2 + 2x − 4 =0
( )
2 3x 2 + x − 2 =0

(
2 3x 2 + 3x − 2 x − 2 ) =
0
2 ( 3 x ( x + 1) − 2 ( x + 1) ) =
0
2 ( 3 x − 2 )( x + 1) =
0

2
x= or x = −1
3
Given the shape of the function, the local maximum occurs at the left stationary point.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

f ( −1) = 2 ( −1) + ( −1) − 4 ( −1) + 5

3 2

=−2 + 1 + 4 + 5
=8
The coordinates of the local maximum are ( −1,4 ) .

f ( −1) > f (1) , therefore the local maximum is also the global maximum.
The correct option is C.
Answer
C

11 For the function f ( x ) = x 3 + 4 x − 1 , use f ′ ( x ) to explain why the graph of y = f ( x ) has no

stationary points.
Worked solution
f ( x ) = x3 + 4 x − 1

f ′ (=
x ) 3x 2 + 4

Stationary points occur when f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

3 x 2 + 4 is always positive, so the graph of y = f ( x ) has no stationary points.

Answer
f ′ (=
x ) 3 x 2 + 4 ; 3 x 2 + 4 is always positive, so the graph has no stationary points.

TF 12 Determine the value of c , given that the graph of y =− x3 − 5 x 2 + cx + 9 has a stationary point at
x = −3 .
Worked solution
y=− x3 − 5 x 2 + cx + 9
dy
=
−3 x 2 − 10 x + c
dx
dy
= 0 where x = −3 :
dx

−3 ( −3) − 10 ( −3) + c =
2
0
−27 + 30 + c = 0
c = −3
Answer
c = −3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1
TF 13 Consider the function ) x3 − x 2 , − ≤ x ≤ 2 .
g ( x=
4

(a) Use calculus to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.
Worked solution
1
g ( x=
) x3 − x 2 , − ≤ x ≤ 2
4
g ′ (=
x ) 3x 2 − 2 x
= x ( 3x − 2 )

Let g ′ ( x ) = 0 .

x ( 3x − 2 ) =
0

2
x = 0 or x =
3

(0) (0) − ( 0)
3 2
g=
=0
The coordinates of the stationary point are ( 0, 0 ) .
3 2
2 2 2
g =   − 
3 3 3
8 4
= −
27 9
4
= −
27
2 4 
The coordinates of the stationary point are  , −  .
 3 27 
As g ( x ) is a positive cubic, the left-hand stationary point, ( 0, 0 ) , is a local maximum and
2 4 
 , −  is a local minimum.
 3 27 
Answer
2 4 
( 0, 0 ) is a local maximum and  , −  is a local minimum.
 3 27 

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the global maximum value of g .

Worked solution
1
The function is defined over the domain − ≤ x ≤ 2 .
4
3 2
 1  1  1
g−  = −  −− 
 4  4  4
1 1
= − −
64 16
5
= −
64
 1 5 
The left endpoint is  − , −  .
 4 64 
g (=
2) ( 2) − ( 2)
3 2

= 8−4
=4
The right endpoint is ( 2, 4 ) .
Verify using technology to sketch the graph.

The global maximum of 4 occurs at ( 2, 4 ) .

Answer
4

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Determine the global minimum value of g .

Worked solution
 2 −4 
From part (a), the local minimum is  ,  .
 3 27 
 −1 −5 
From part (b), the left hand endpoint is  ,  .
 4 64 
4 2 4 
The global minimum value of − occurs at  ,−  .
27  3 27 
Answer
4
−
27

(d) Determine the minimum gradient and the exact coordinates of the point where this occurs.
Worked solution
Let:
h ( x) = g′ ( x)
= 3x 2 − 2 x
= x ( 3x − 2 )

Given that the gradient function h ( x ) is a positive parabola, the minimum will occur exactly
2 1
halfway between the two x -intercepts, x = 0 and x = , at x = .
3 3
Use calculus to determine where h′ ( x ) = 0 :

h′ ( x=
) 6x − 2
6x − 2 =0
1
x=
3
2
1 1 1
=
h   3  − 2  
3 3 3
3 2
= −
9 3
1 2
= −
3 3
1
= −
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1 1
The minimum gradient of − occurs at x = .
3 3
3 2
1 1 1
g =   − 
3 3 3
1 1
= −
27 9
2
= −
27
1 1 2 
Therefore the minimum gradient of − occurs at the point  , −  .
3  3 27 
Answer
1 1 2 
− ;  ,− 
3  3 27 

TF 14 Consider the function f ( x ) = x3 + x 2 − x − 1 . Use calculus to locate the coordinates of any stationary
points and determine their nature. Then sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , showing all key features.

Worked solution
f ( x ) = x3 + x 2 − x − 1

f ′ ( x ) = 3x 2 + 2 x − 1

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

3x 2 + 2 x − 1 =0
( x + 1)( 3x − 1) =
0

1
x = −1 or x =
3
f ( −1) = ( −1) + ( −1) − ( −1) − 1
3 2

=−1 + 1 + 1 − 1
=0

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
3 2
1 1 1 1
f =
   +   − −1
3 3 3 3
1 1 1
= + − −1
27 9 3
1 3 9 27
= + − −
27 27 27 27
32
= −
27
 1 32 
Because this is a positive cubic, ( −1, 0 ) is a maximum and  , −  is a minimum.
 3 27 
The y -intercept occurs where x = 0 .

f ( 0 ) = 03 + 0 2 − 0 − 1
= −1
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, − 1) .

The x -intercepts occur where f ( x ) = 0 .

f (1) = 13 + 12 − 1 − 1
=0
An x -intercept is (1, 0 ) and ( x − 1) is a factor.

f ( −1) = ( −1) + ( −1) − ( −1) − 1

3 2

=−1 + 1 + 1 − 1
=0
An x -intercept is ( −1, 0 ) and ( x + 1) is a factor.

Because ( −1, 0 ) is a stationary point, ( x + 1) is a repeated factor.

( x 1) ( x − 1) and the x -intercepts are ( −1, 0 ) and (1, 0 ) .

So f ( x ) =+
2

Answer

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 15 Consider the function g ( x ) = 4 x 3 + x 2 − 4 x − 1 , where −1 ≤ x ≤ 2 .

(a) Determine the coordinates and nature of the stationary points.

Worked solution
g ( x ) = 4 x3 + x 2 − 4 x − 1

g ′ ( x )= 12 x 2 + 2 x − 4

Let g ′ ( x ) = 0 :

12 x 2 + 2 x − 4 =0
(
2 6x2 + x − 2 =0)
(
2 6x2 + 4 x − 3x − 2 ) =
0
2 ( 2 x ( 3 x + 2 ) − 1( 3 x + 2 ) ) =
0
2 ( 2 x − 1)( 3 x + 2 ) =
0

1 2
x= or x = −
2 3
3 2
 2  2  2  2
g  −  = 4  −  +  −  − 4  −  −1
 3  3  3  3
32 4 8
=− + + − 1
27 9 3
25
=
27
3 2
1 1 1 1
g   = 4   +   − 4   −1
2 2 2 2
1 1
= + − 2 −1
2 4
9
= −
4
 2 25 
Given that the function is a positive cubic function, the left stationary point  − ,  is a local
 3 27 
1 9
maximum and the right stationary point  , −  is a local minimum.
2 4
Answer
 2 25  1 9
local maximum:  − ,  ; local minimum:  , − 
 3 27  2 4

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Sketch the graph and hence determine the global maximum and minimum values of the
function.
Worked solution
Endpoints:

g ( −1) = 4 ( −1) + ( −1) − 4 ( −1) − 1

3 2

=−4 + 1 + 4 − 1
=0

g ( 2) = 4 ( 2) + ( 2) − 4 ( 2) −1
3 2

= 32 + 4 − 8 − 1
= 27
The coordinates of the endpoints are ( −1,0 ) and ( 2,27 ) .

The y -intercept occurs where x = 0 :

g ( 0) = 4 ( 0) + ( 0) − 4 ( 0) −1
3 2

= −1
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, − 1) .

The x -intercept occurs where g ( x ) = 0 .

The endpoint ( −1,0 ) shows that x + 1 is a linear factor of g ( x ) .

4 x3 + x 2 − 4 x − 1 =0
( x + 1) ( 4 x 2 + kx − 1) =
0

Equating coefficients:
4 x 2 + kx 2 =
x2
( 4 + k ) x2 =
x2
4+k = 1
k = −3
Therefore:

( x + 1) ( 4 x 2 − 3x − 1) =0

( x + 1) ( 4 x 2 − 4 x + x − 1) =0
( x + 1) ( x ( x − 1) + 1( x − 1) ) =
0
( x + 1)( 4 x + 1)( x − 1) = 0

1
x = −1 , x = − or x = 1
4

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

 1 
The x -intercepts are ( −1,0 ) ,  − ,0  and (1,0 ) .
 4 
9 1
The local and global minimum value is − , which occurs at x = .
4 2
The global maximum value is 27 , which occurs at x = 2 .
Answer
9
global minimum: − ; global maximum: 27
4

TF 16 Consider the function f ( x ) = x3 + bx 2 + cx + 28 . The graph of y = f ( x ) has a stationary point at

( 2,0 ) .
(a) Determine the values of b and c .
Worked solution
A stationary point at ( 2, 0 ) means f ( 2 ) = 0 and f ′ ( 2 ) = 0 .

f ( x ) = x3 + bx 2 + cx + 28

( 2, 0 ) , so f ( 2 ) = 0
23 + b × 22 + 2c + 28 =0
8 + 4b + 2c + 28 = 0
4b + 2c =−36
2b + c =−18 [1]
f ′ ( x ) = 3 x 2 + 2bx + c

f ′ ( 2) = 0

3 × 22 + 2b × 2 + c =0
12 + 4b + c = 0
4b + c =−12 [ 2]

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

[ 2] − [1] :
2b = 6
b=3
Substitute this value into [ 2] to determine the value of c .

4 × 3 + c =−12
12 + c =−12
c = −24
Answer
b = 3 , c = −24

(b) Sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , giving the coordinates of the stationary points and the intercepts
with the axes.
Worked solution
f ( x ) =x3 + 3 x 2 − 24 x + 28

f ′ ( x ) = 3 x 2 + 6 x − 24
(
= 3 x2 + 2 x − 8 )
=3 ( x + 4 )( x − 2 )

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

3 ( x + 4 )( x − 2 ) =
0

x = −4 or x = 2
f ( −4 ) =( −4 ) + 3 ( −4 ) − 24 ( −4 ) + 28
3 2

= −64 + 48 + 96 + 28
= 108

23 3 ( 2 ) − 24 ( 2 ) + 28
f ( 2 ) =+
2

=8 + 12 − 48 + 28
=0
The coordinates of the stationary points are ( −4, 108 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .

f ( x ) is a positive cubic, so the left-hand stationary point is a local maximum.

The y -intercept occurs where x = 0 .

f ( 0 ) = 28

The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 28 ) .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Given that ( 2, 0 ) is a stationary point, factorise the function in order to determine any other
x -intercepts:
f ( x ) =x3 + 3 x 2 − 24 x + 28
(
= ( x − 2 ) x 2 + kx − 14 )
Equating coefficients:
−2 x 2 + kx 2 =
3x 2
( k − 2) x2 =
3x 2
k −2= 3
k =5
Therefore:

(
f ( x ) = ( x − 2 ) x 2 + 5 x − 14 )
=( x − 2 )( x − 2 )( x + 7 )
Where f ( x ) = 0 , x = 2 or x = −7

The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( 2, 0 ) and ( −7, 0 ) .

Answer

1
Consider the function g ( x ) = ( x − 1) (8 − 3x ) + 1.
3
17
8

(a) Determine an expression for g ′ ( x ) in factorised form.

Worked solution
1
g ( x) = ( x − 1) (8 − 3x ) + 1
3

( x − 1)
3

Let u ( x ) = and v ( x )= 8 − 3 x .
8
3 ( x − 1)
2

Therefore u ′ ( x ) = and v′ ( x ) =
−3 .
8

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
g ′ ( x ) u ( x ) v′ ( x ) + v ( x ) u ′ ( x )
=
( x − 1) ( −3) + (8 − 3x )( 3)( x − 1)
3 2

=
8 8
−3 ( x − 1) + 3 ( 8 − 3 x )( x − 1)
3 2

=
8
3 ( x − 1) ( −1( x − 1) + ( 8 − 3 x ) )
2

=
8
3 ( x − 1) ( − x + 1 + 8 − 3 x )
2

=
8
3 ( x − 1) ( 9 − 4 x )
2

=
8
3
g ′ ( x ) = ( x − 1) ( 9 − 4 x )
2

8
Answer
3
g ′ ( x ) = ( x − 1) ( 9 − 4 x )
2

(b) Determine the exact set of values of x for which g ′ ( x ) ≤ 0 .

Worked solution
3
g ′ ( x ) = ( x − 1) ( 9 − 4 x )
2

8
Let g ′ ( x ) = 0 .

3
( x − 1) ( 9 − 4 x ) =
2
0
8
9
x = 1 or x =
4

9
Hence, g ′ ( x ) ≤ 0 for x = 1 and x ≥ .
4

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
9
x = 1 and x ≥
4

9 
(c) The graph of y = g ( x ) has stationary points at (1, m ) and  , n  .
4 

Determine the values of m and n , correct to 2 decimal places.

Worked solution
1
g ( x) = ( x − 1) (8 − 3x ) + 1
3

8
1
g (1) = (1 − 1) ( 8 − 3) + 1
3

8
= 0 +1
=1
Therefore m = 1 .
3
9 19   9
g =  − 1  8 − 3 ×  + 1
 4 8 4   4
= 1.31 ( 2 d.p.)

So n = 1.31 .
Answer
m = 1, n = 1.31

Determine the values of x for which g ( x ) = ( g ( x ) ) , correct to 2 decimal places.

2
(d)

Worked solution

g ( x ) = ( g ( x ))
2

( x − 1) (8 − 3x ) + 1=  ( x − 1) (8 − 3x ) + 1
1 3 1 3

8 8 

Using technology: x = 0 , x = 1 , x = 2.67 ( 2 d.p.) , x = 3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
0, 1, 2.67, 3

18 Determine the rule and sketch the graph of a cubic function y = g ( x ) , given that g ( 3) = 3 , g ′ ( 3) = 0 ,
g ( 0 ) = 4 , g ′ ( 0 ) = 0 , g ′ ( x ) > 0 for x < 0 and x > 3 , and g ′ ( x ) < 0 for 0 < x < 3 . Give the
x-intercept correct to 2 decimal places.
Worked solution
Possible solution:
Let g ( x ) = ax3 + bx 2 + cx + d .

g ′ ( x ) = 3ax 2 + 2bx + c

Because g ( 0 ) = 4 , d = 4 .

Because g ′ ( 0 ) = 0 , c = 0 .

So g ( x ) = ax 3 + bx 2 + 4 , g ′=
( x ) 3ax 2 + 2bx
g ( 3) = 3 :

27 a + 9b + 4 =3
27 a + 9b + 4 =3
27 a + 9b =
−1 [1]
g ′ ( 3) = 0 :
27 a + 6b =
0
27 a + 6b =
0 [ 2]
[1] − [ 2] :
3b = −1
1
b= −
3
Substituting into [ 2] :

 1
27 a + 6  −  = 0
 3
27 a − 2 =0
27 a = 2
2
a=
27

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
2 3 1 2
This gives the function: g ( x ) = x − x +4.
27 3
Using technology, the x -intercept is ( −2.73, 0 ) .

Answer

x)
Consider the function f (= ( 2 x − 3)
3
19 .

(a) Sketch the function f ( x ) and the corresponding gradient function, labelling all key features.

Worked solution
f (=
x) ( 2 x − 3)
3

( x ) 3 ( 2 x − 3) × 2
f ′=
2

= 6 ( 2 x − 3)
2

f ′ ( x ) ≥ 0 for all values of x .

3
Therefore the gradient function is positive except where x = when the gradient is zero.
2
The function f ( x ) has a single stationary point of inflection and has a positive gradient
otherwise.
Key features for f (=
x) ( 2 x − 3)
3
:

3 
The y -intercept is ( 0, −27 ) and the single x -intercept is  , 0  .
2 
Stationary points are where f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

3 
There is a stationary point of inflection at  , 0  .
2 
′ ( x ) 6 ( 2 x − 3) :
2
Key features for f =

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
The y -intercept is ( 0,54 ) .

3 
The x -intercept and turning point is  , 0  .
2 
Answer

The function f ( x ) is multiplied by x − 1 and becomes g ( x ) =( 2 x − 3) ( x − 1) . Plot the graph

3
(b)
of the function g ( x ) .

Worked solution
g ( x) =( 2 x − 3) ( x − 1)
3

g ( x ) is a quartic or a polynomial of degree four.

Determine the key features of g ( x ) .

Consider the axes intercepts and any stationary points.
3 
The y -intercept is ( 0, 27 ) and the x -intercepts are  , 0  and (1, 0 ) .
2 
Using the product rule:
u (=
x) ( 2 x − 3) and v ( x )= x − 1
3

′ ( x ) 6 ( 2 x − 3) and v ′ ( x ) = 1
u=
2

g ′ ( x ) u ( x ) v′ ( x ) + v ( x ) u ′ ( x )
=
( 2 x − 3) × 1 + 6 ( 2 x − 3) × ( x − 1)
3 2
=
( 2 x − 3) ( ( 2 x − 3) + 6 ( x − 1) )
2
=
= ( 2 x − 3) ( 8 x − 9 )
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Stationary points occur when g ′ ( x ) = 0 .

( 2 x − 3) ( 8 x − 9 ) =
2
0

3 9
x= or x =
2 8
3
 3    3    3  
g  =  2   − 3     − 1
 2    2    2  
=0
3
9  9   9  
g  =  2   − 3    − 1
8  8   8  
27
= −
512
3 
The graph has two stationary points: a stationary point of inflection at  , 0  and a local
2 
9 27 
minimum at  , − .
 8 512 
Answer
Not shown on graph: y-intercept = (0, 27)

(c) Determine the coordinates of the global minimum point and the global maximum point of the
function g ( x ) over the domain [ 0.9,1.7 ] . Sketch the corresponding graph. Label all key points
correct to 2 decimal points.
Worked solution
Sketch the graph of g ( x ) for the domain restriction given.
Decide the position of the global minimum and the global maximum.
The global maximum occurs at ( 0.90, 0.17 ) and the global minimum occurs at the turning point
(1.13, − 0.05) .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer

global maximum: ( 0.90, 0.17 ) ; global minimum: (1.13, − 0.05 )

TF 20 Consider the function f ( x ) = x + bx + cx + 1 .

3 2

(a) Determine the relationship between b and c when y = f ( x ) has exactly one stationary point.

Worked solution
f ( x ) = x 3 + bx 2 + cx + 1

f ′ ( x ) = 3 x 2 + 2bx + c

If there is exactly one stationary point, then there is exactly one solution to the equation
f ′( x) = 0 .

This means the discriminant equals zero.

For f ′ ( x ) , let a → 3 , b → 2b and c → c .
Substituting into the discriminant:

( 2b )
2
− 4 × 3 × c =0
4b 2 − 12c =
0
4b 2 = 12c
b 2 = 3c
There is one stationary point when b 2 = 3c .
Answer
b 2 = 3c

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Let c = 0 .
(i) Use calculus to determine the coordinates of any stationary points.

Worked solution
For f ′ ( x ) = 3 x 2 + 2bx + c where c = 0 :

f ′ (=
x ) 3 x 2 + 2bx
= x ( 3 x + 2b )

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

x ( 3 x + 2b ) =
0

2b
x = 0 or x = −
3
For f ( x ) =x3 + bx 2 + 1 :

f (0) = 1
3 2
 2b   2b   2b 
f  −  = −  + b  −  + 1
 3   3   3 
−8b 4b
3 3
= + +1
27 9
−8b3 12b3
= + +1
27 27
4b3
= +1
27
 2b 4b3 
The stationary points are  − , + 1 and ( 0, 1) .
 3 27 
Answer
 2b 4b3 
( 0, 1) and  − , + 1
 3 27 
(ii) Determine the exact set of values of b for which the curve has a stationary point with a
negative y -coordinate.

Worked solution
 2b 4b3 
Only  − , + 1 has the potential to have a negative y -coordinate.
 3 27 

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
4b3
+1 < 0
27
4b3
< −1
27
4b3 < −27
−27
b3 <
4
−27
b< 3
4
−3
b< 3
4
Answer
−3
b< 3
4
(iii) Determine the values of b for which the curve has a local maximum at ( 0,1) .

Worked solution
If a local maximum occurs at ( 0,1) , then the graph must be a positive cubic function; therefore,
it is the left stationary point and:
2b
− >0
3
−2b > 0
b<0
When b = 0 , the graph will be a translated cubic power function. So the point at ( 0, 1) will be a
local maximum when b is negative.
So b < 0
Answer
b<0
(iv) What is the nature of the stationary point at (0, 1) when b = 0?

Worked solution
) x3 + 1 .
If b = 0 , f ( x=

( 0, 1)will be a stationary point of inflection, because this is just a vertical transposition of the
basic cubic power function.
Answer
a stationary point of inflection

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
4 x 2 + bx
TF 21 Consider the function f ( x) = , where b and k are non-zero numbers. The graph of
2x2 − k
y = f ( x ) is shown below.

(a) If the graph of y = f ( x ) has no vertical asymptotes, determine the possible values of k .

Worked solution
4 x 2 + bx
f ( x) =
2x2 − k
A vertical asymptote would exist if the denominator was zero.
Because there are no vertical asymptotes, 2 x 2 − k ≠ 0 .
The graph of=
y 2x2 − k :
• crosses the x -axis twice if k > 0

• touches the x -axis if k = 0

• is entirely above the x -axis if k < 0 .

Hence the denominator of f ( x ) will have no zeros if k < 0 .

No vertical asymptotes exist if k < 0 .

Answer
k <0

4 x 2 − bx
(b) If g ( x ) = , describe how the graph of y = g ( x ) can be obtained from the graph of
2x2 − k
y = f ( x ) . Hence, sketch the graph of y = g ( x ) .

Worked solution
4 x 2 + bx
f ( x) =
2x2 − k

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

4(−x) + b (−x)
2

f (−x) =
2(−x) − k
2

4 x 2 − bx
=
2x2 − k
= g ( x)

f (−x) =
g ( x ) means that y = g ( x ) can be obtained from y = f ( x ) by reflection in the
y -axis.
Answer
reflection in the y-axis

Determine the number of stationary points on the graph of y = ( f ( x ) ) .

2
(c)

Worked solution
4 x 2 + bx
Let f ( x ) = .
2x2 − k
2
 4 x 2 + bx 
( f ( x ))
2
= 2 
 2x − k 
1
 4 x 2 + bx 
d
( ( ))  2x2 − k  × f ' ( x )
2
= f x 2
dx  
= 2 f ( x) × f '( x)

d
( f ( x ) ) = 0 , so 2 f ( x ) × f ' ( x ) =
2
Stationary points occur where 0.
dx

The graph shows that f ( x ) = 0 at two x -values and f ' ( x ) = 0 at two different x -values.

d
( f ( x ) ) = 0 at all four of these x -values.
2
So
dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

Hence the function ( f ( x ) ) has four stationary points.

2

Answer
four

1
22 Consider the function f ( x ) =
− x3 + ax − 1 where a > 0 .
3

(a) Determine the values of x for which the function is decreasing.

Worked solution
1
f ( x) =
− x3 + ax − 1
3
f ′( x) =− x2 + a .

f ′ ( x ) < 0 when f ( x ) is decreasing.

− x2 + a < 0
a < x2
x2 > a

So the function is decreasing when x < − a and x > a .

Answer
x < − a and x > a

(b) For a = 10 , calculate the coordinates of the stationary points of f ( x ) , correct to 1 decimal
place, and determine their nature.
Worked solution
1
Where a = 10 , f ( x ) =
− x3 + 10 x − 1 and f ′ ( x ) =− x 2 + 10 .
3
Consider the relationship between the function and its gradient function at the stationary points.
At the stationary points, f ′ ( x ) = 0 , so x = ± 10 .

From technology, there is a local minimum at ( −3.2, − 22.1) and a local maximum at
( 3.2, 20.1) .
Answer
minimum: ( −3.2, − 22.1) ; maximum: ( 3.2, 20.1)

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1
(c) Sketch the function f ( x ) = − x3 + 10 x − 1 and the corresponding gradient function, labelling
3
all key features, and clearly showing the intervals where the function f ( x ) is decreasing.

Worked solution
Determine the key features of the two graphs.
1
Key features for f ( x ) =
− x3 + 10 x − 1 :
3
The y -intercept is ( 0, − 1) .

The x -intercepts are ( −5.5, 0 ) , ( 0.1, 0 ) and ( 5.4, 0 ) .

There is a local minimum at ( −3.2, − 22.1) and a local maximum at ( 3.2, 20.1) .

Key features for f ′ ( x ) =− x 2 + 10 :

The y -intercept is ( 0,10 ) and the x -intercepts are − 10, 0 and ( ) ( )

10, 0 .

There is a turning point at ( 0,10 ) .

Answer

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

Worked solutions
Chapter 6 Further applications of
differentiation
Exercise 6.2 Motion and derivatives
TF Technology free question

d2y
1 Determine an expression for for the following functions.
dx 2

(a) y = 2 x3 + 3x − 1

Worked solution
y = 2 x3 + 3x − 1
dy
= 6x2 + 3
dx
d2y
= 12 x
dx 2
Answer
d2y
= 12 x
dx 2

( x − 1)
2
(b) =
y

Worked solution

( x − 1)
2
=
y

dy
= 2 ( x − 1)
dx
= 2x − 2
d2y
=2
dx 2
Answer
d2y
=2
dx 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1
(c) y = x2 + 6x −
x
Worked solution
1
y = x2 + 6x −
x
= x + 6 x − x −1
2

dy
= 2 x + 6 + x −2
dx
d2y
= 2 − 2 x −3
dx 2
2
= 2− 3
x
Answer
d2y 2
2
= 2− 3
dx x

( 2 x + 1)
4
(d) =
y

Worked solution
Let y = u 4 , where =
u 2x + 1.
dy du
Therefore, = 4u 3 and = 2.
du dx
dy dy du
= ×
dx du dx
= 4u 3 × 2
= 8u 3
= 8 ( 2 x + 1)
3

d2y
( 24 )( 2 )( 2 x + 1)
2
=
dx 2
= 48 ( 2 x + 1)
2

Answer
d2y
48 ( 2 x + 1)
2
= 2
dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

(e) ( x 2) x2 −1
y =− ( )
Worked solution
( x 2) x2 −1
y =− ( )
Let u= x − 2 and =
v x2 −1 .
du dv
Therefore, = 1 and = 2x .
dx dx
dy dv du
= u× + v×
dx dx dx
( )
=( x − 2 )( 2 x ) + x 2 − 1 (1)
= 2x2 − 4 x + x2 −1
= 3x 2 − 4 x − 1
d2y
= 6x − 4
dx 2
= 2 ( 3x − 2 )

Answer
d2y
= 2 ( 3x − 2 )
dx 2

TF 2 For f ( x ) =− x 3 − 5 x + 1 , calculate f ′′ ( −1) .

Worked solution
f ( x) =− x3 − 5 x + 1

f ′( x) =
−3 x 2 − 5

f ′′ ( x ) = −6 x

f ′′ ( −1) = −6 × −1
=6
Answer
f ′′ ( −1) =
6

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
3 For the following functions, determine expressions for f ′ ( x ) and f ′′ ( x ) and their corresponding
maximal domains.

(a) f ( x ) = 5x2 − 8x + 3

Worked solution
f ( x ) = 5x2 − 8x + 3

f ′ (=
x ) 10 x − 8
This is a straight line with a maximal domain  .
f ′′ ( x ) = 10
This is a horizontal line with a maximal domain  .
Answer
f ′ (=
x ) 10 x − 8 , domain:  ; f ′′ ( x ) = 10 , domain: 

x2 + 4x − 2
(b) f ( x) =
x
Worked solution
x2 + 4x − 2
f ( x) =
x
= x + 4 − 2 x −1
f ′ ( x ) = 1 + 2 x −2
2
= 1+
x2
f ( x ) and f ' ( x ) are undefined if x = 0 , so the maximal domain of f ' ( x ) is  \ {0} .

f ′ ( x ) = 1 + 2 x −2

f ′′ ( x ) = −4 x −3
4
= −
x3
f '' ( x ) is undefined if x = 0 , so the maximal domain is  \ {0} .
Answer

, domain:  \ {0} ; f ′′ ( x ) = − 3 , domain:  \ {0}

2 4
f ′( x)= 1+ 2
x x

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

(c) f ( x=
) x−2

Worked solution
f ( x=
) x−2

( x − 2)
1
= 2

1
f ′ ( x )   (1)( x − 2 ) 2
−1
=
2
1
=
2 x−2
You cannot find the square root of a negative value, so x ≥ 2 .
But because the root is in the denominator, it also cannot be zero.
So the maximal domain of f ' ( x ) is x > 2 .

1
( x) ( x − 2) 2
−1
f ′=
2
 1  1 
f ′′ ( x ) =    −  (1)( x − 2 )
− 32

 2  2 
1
= −
4 ( x − 2) x − 2

Following the same reasoning, f '' ( x ) has the same domain restrictions as the first derivative.

Answer
1 1
f ′( x) = , x > 2 ; f ′′ ( x ) = − , x>2
2 x−2 4 ( x − 2) x − 2

(d) f ( x )= x + x

Worked solution
f ( x )= x + x
= x + x2
1

1 − 12
f ′( x)= 1+ x
2
1
= 1+
2 x
You cannot find the square root of a negative value, so x ≥ 0 , but because the root is in the
denominator, it also cannot be zero.
So the maximal domain of f ' ( x ) is x > 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

( x )    −  x − 2
1 1
f ′′=
3

 2  2 
1
= − 3
4x 2
1
= −
4x x
Following the same reasoning, f '' ( x ) has the same domain restrictions as the first derivative.

Answer
1 1
f ′( x)= 1+ , x > 0 ; f ′′ ( x ) = − , x>0
2 x 4x x

4 For each of the following position functions x (t), t ≥ 0, determine the expression for the acceleration,
a (t), of a particle whose position is x metres from a fixed origin at time t seconds.

(a) x = 2t 2 − 3t + 4
Worked solution
x = 2t 2 − 3t + 4
dx
= 4t − 3
dt
d 2x
=4
dt 2
Therefore, a ( t ) = 4 .

Answer
a (t ) = 4

(b) =
x t +1
Worked solution
=
x t +1
( t + 1)
1
= 2

dx 1
( t + 1) 2
−1
=
dt 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
d 2 x  1  1 
=   −  ( t + 1) 2
−3

 2  2 
2
dt
1
= −
4 ( t + 1) 2
3

1
= −
4 ( t + 1) t + 1

1
Therefore, a ( t ) = − .
4 ( t + 1) t + 1
Answer
1
a (t ) = −
4 ( t + 1) t + 1

( t − 1)
3
(c) x=

Worked solution

( t − 1)
3
x=
dx
= 3 ( t − 1)
2

dt
d 2x
= 6 ( t − 1)
dt 2
t ) 6 ( t − 1) .
Therefore, a (=

Answer
a (=
t ) 6 ( t − 1)

TF 5 A particle moves in a straight line so that its position, x metres, at time t seconds from a fixed origin is
given by x= 2t − t 3 , t ≥ 0.

(a) After 2 seconds , which of the following describes the particle?

A travelling in the negative direction, speeding up

B travelling in the negative direction, slowing down

C travelling in the positive direction, speeding up

D travelling in the positive direction, slowing down

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Worked solution
x= 2t − t 3
dx
v=
dt
= 2 − 3t 2
d 2x
a=
dt 2
= −6t
Therefore:

x ( 2) = 2 ( 2) − ( 2)
3

= 4−8
= −4
v ( 2 )= 2 − 3 ( 2 )
2

= 2 − 12
= −10
a ( 2 ) = −6 ( 2 )
= −12
Negative position: the particle is to the left of the origin.
Negative velocity: the particle is travelling to the left, so further away from the origin.
Negative acceleration: the particle has a negative velocity, so negative acceleration will increase
the size, hence the particle is speeding up.
The correct option is A.
Answer
A

(b) Explain the common error made by a student who misunderstood the concept of a negative
velocity.
Worked solution
Negative acceleration describes slowing down when the velocity is positive.
In this case, a velocity of −10 changes to −10 − 12 = −22 in another second; that is, the velocity
has decreased but this actually means that the particle accelerates, increasing speed from 10 m/s
to 22 m/s while travelling in the negative direction. Speed is the magnitude of the velocity, not
its direction.
Answer
Negative acceleration describes slowing down only when the starting velocity is positive.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 6 The position, x metres, of a particle travelling in a straight line from a fixed origin at time t seconds is
given by x= t 2 − 2 t , t ≥ 0. Determine the acceleration of the body after 1 second.

Worked solution
x= t 2 − 2 t
= t 2 − 2t 2
1

dx  1  −1
= 2t − ( 2 )   t 2
dt 2
− 12
= 2t − t
d 2x  1  − 32
= 2 −  − t
dt 2  2
1
= 2+ 3
2t 2
When t = 1 :
d 2x 1
= 2+
2 (1) 2
2 3
dt
1
= 2+
2
= 2.5
The acceleration of the body after 1 second is 2.5 m/s 2 .
Answer
2.5 m/s 2

7 The position, x metres, of a particle travelling in a straight line from a fixed origin at time t seconds is
given by x ( t ) = 3t 3 − 9t 2 + 12t − 2 , 0 ≤ t ≤ 3.

(a) Determine the particle’s acceleration at t = 1 .

Worked solution
x ( t ) = 3t 3 − 9t 2 + 12t − 2
x′ ( t ) = 9t 2 − 18t + 12
x′′ (=
t ) 18t − 18

′′ (1) 18 (1) − 18
x=
=0
The acceleration at time t = 1 is 0 m/s 2 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
0 m/s 2

(b) Determine the particle’s velocity at t = 1 .

Worked solution
x′ ( t ) = 9t 2 − 18t + 12
x′ (1) = 9 ×12 − 18 ×1 + 12
=9 − 18 + 12
=3
The velocity at t = 1 is 3 m/s .
Answer
3 m/s

(c) Justify the particle’s velocity being a minimum at t = 1 .

Worked solution
Velocity: v ( t ) = 9t 2 − 18t + 12 is a positive quadratic with a minimum turning point.

x′′ (1) = 0 , so a (1) = 0

Hence, the minimum velocity is at t = 1 .
Answer
v ( t ) = 9t 2 − 18t + 12 is a positive quadratic with a minimum turning point.

a (1) = 0 , so the minimum velocity is at t = 1.

(d) Determine, correct to 2 decimal places, the time(s) when the numerical component of the
particle’s velocity and the numerical component of the acceleration are equal.
Worked solution
x′ ( t ) = x′′ ( t )

9t 2 − 18t + 12 = 18t − 18
9t 2 − 36t + 30 =
0
Using technology to solve:
t = 1.18 , t = 2.82
Check: after 1.18 s , the velocity is 3.30 m/s and acceleration is 3.30 m/s 2 .
After 2.82 s , the velocity is 32.70 m/s and acceleration is 32.70 m/s 2 .
Answer
1.18 s and 2.82 s

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 8 The position, x metres, of a particle travelling in a straight line from a fixed origin at time t seconds is
given by x ( t ) =2t 3 − 12t 2 + 8t , t ≥ 0.

(a) Determine an expression for the particle’s velocity v ( t ) , in m/s , at any time.

Worked solution
Distance is given by the expression: x ( t ) =2t 3 − 12t 2 + 8t

Velocity is given by the expression:

v ( t ) = x′ ( t )
= 6t 2 − 24t + 8
Answer
v ( t ) = 6t 2 − 24t + 8

(b) Determine an expression for the particle’s acceleration a ( t ) , in m/s2 , at any time.

Worked solution
Velocity is given by the expression: x′ ( t ) = 6t 2 − 24t + 8
Acceleration is given by the expression:
a ( t ) = x′′ ( t )
= 12t − 24
Answer
a (=
t ) 12t − 24

(c) Calculate the particle’s initial acceleration.

Worked solution
x′′ (=
t ) 12t − 24
x′′ ( 0 ) = 12 × 0 − 24
= −24
The initial acceleration is −24 m/s 2 .
Answer
−24 m/s 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(d) Determine the time when the particle’s acceleration is zero and the position of the particle at this
instant.
Worked solution
a (=
t ) 12t − 24 , where a ( t ) = 0
12t − 24 =
0
t=2
x ( t ) =2t 3 − 12t 2 + 8t

x ( 2 ) = 2 × 23 − 12 × 22 + 8 × 2
= 16 − 48 + 16
= −16
The particle’s acceleration is zero after 2 seconds , at which time the particle is 16 m to the left
of the origin.
Answer
2 seconds ; 16 m to the left of the origin

(e) Determine the minimum velocity and the time it occurs.

Worked solution
The acceleration is zero when t = 2 .
x′ ( t ) = 6t 2 − 24t + 8
The velocity function is a positive quadratic, so has a minimum turning point.
x′ ( 2 ) = 6 × 22 − 24 × 2 + 8
= 24 − 48 + 8
= −16
The minimum velocity is −16 m/s and occurs after 2 seconds.
Answer
−16 m/s ; after 2 seconds

TF 9 A particle moves in a straight line so that its position, x metres, at time t seconds is given by
=
x t + 2 , t ≥ 0.

(a) Justify the particle’s velocity being always positive.

Worked solution
=
x t+2
(t + 2)
1
= 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dx
v=
dt
1
=   (t + 2) 2
−1

2
1
=
2 t+2
t + 2 > 0 , for all t ≥ 0 , so v > 0 for all values of t ≥ 0
Answer
1
v= ; t + 2 > 0 , so v > 0 for all values of t ≥ 0
2 t+2

(b) Determine the particle’s exact initial acceleration.

Worked solution

dx ( t + 2 )
− 12

=
dt 2
d 2x  1  1 
=    −  (t + 2) 2
−3

 2  2 
2
dt
1
= −
4 (t + 2) 2
3

When t = 0 :
d 2x 1
= −
4 ( 0 + 2) 2
2 3
dt
1
= −
4× 22
3

1
= −
4× 2× 2
1
= −
8 2
2
= −
16
2
The initial acceleration of the particle is − m/s2 .
16
Answer
2
− m/s2
16

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Justify the particle’s acceleration being always negative.
Worked solution
d 2x
a=
dt 2
1
= −
4 (t + 2) 2
3

1
= −
4 (t + 2) t + 2

t + 2 > 0 for all values, and because t ≥ 0 then t + 2 > 0 .

1
So a = − is negative, because all factors are positive.
4 (t + 2) t + 2
Answer
1
t + 2 > 0 for all values, and since t ≥ 0 then t + 2 > 0 . So, a = − is negative,
4 (t + 2) t + 2
since all factors are positive.

d2y
TF 10 Determine an expression for for each of the following functions.
dx 2

x
(a) y=
x +1
Worked solution
x
y=
x +1
Let u = x and v= x + 1 .
du dv
Therefore, = 1 and = 1.
dx dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dy v × du dx − u × dx
dv
=
dx v2

=
( x + 1)(1) − ( x )(1)
( x + 1)
2

x +1− x
=
( x + 1)
2

1
=
( x + 1)
2

( x + 1)
−2
=

d2y
−2 (1)( x + 1)
−3
2
=
dx
2
= −
( x + 1)
3

Answer
2
−
( x + 1)
3

(b) =y 3x − 1

Worked solution
=y 3x − 1
( 3x − 1)
1
= 2

1
Let y = u , where =
u 3x − 1 .
2

1
dy 1 − 2 du
Therefore, = u and = 3.
du 2 dx
dy dy du
= ×
dx du dx
1
1 −2
= u ×3
2
1
3 −
= u 2
2
3
( 3x − 1) 2
−1
=
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1
3 −
Let w = u 2 where =
u 3x − 1 .
2
3
dw 3 − du
Therefore, = − u 2 and = 3.
du 4 dx
d 2 y dw du
= ×
dx 2 du dx
3
3 −2
= − u ×3
4
3
9 −
= − u 2
4
9
= −
4 ( 3 x − 1) 2
3

9
= −
4 ( 3 x − 1) 3 x − 1
Answer
9
−
4 ( 3 x − 1) 3 x − 1

x
(c) y=
x+4
Worked solution
x
y=
x+4
Let u = x and v= x + 4 .
du 1 − 12 dv
Therefore, = x and = 1.
dx 2 dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dy v du − u dv
= dx 2 dx
dx v

2
1

( ) ( )
( x + 4 )   x − 2 − x 2 (1)
1 1

=
( x + 4)
2

x+4
− x
= 2 x

( x + 4)
2

x+4
− 22 xx
= 2 x

( x + 4)
2

−x + 4
=
2 x ( x + 4)
2

− ( x − 4)
=
2 x ( x + 4)
2

You now need to determine the derivative of this expression, which will require the use of the
quotient rule again.
To make it explicit that different expressions are involved, use u1 and v1 .
The second of these is a little complicated, so look carefully at the working that follows.

− ( x − 4 ) and v1 2 x ( x + 4 ) .
2
Let u1 = =

du1
Therefore, = −1 .
dx

=
dv1
dx
( 2 x ) ( 2)( x + 4) + ( x + 4) ( 2)  12  ( x )
2 − 12

( x + 4)
2

=4 ( x + 4 ) x+
x
4 ( x + 4 )( x ) + ( x + 4 )
2

=
x

=
( x + 4 )( 4 x + x + 4 )
x

=
( x + 4 )( 5 x + 4 )
x

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

d 2 y v1
du1
− u1 dv1

= dx dx

dx 2 ( v1 )
2

=
2 x ( x + 4 ) ( −1) −
2
( −( x − 4 )( x + 4 )( 5 x + 4 )
x )
4x ( x + 4)
4

−2 x ( x + 4 ) + (
2 x − 4 )( x + 4 )( 5 x + 4 )

= x

4x ( x + 4)
4

−2 x ( x + 4 ) + ( x − 4 )( x + 4 )( 5 x + 4 )
2

=
4x x ( x + 4)
4

( x + 4 ) ( −2 x ( x + 4 ) + ( x − 4 )( 5 x + 4 ) )
=
4x x ( x + 4)
4

−2 x 2 − 8 x + 5 x 2 + 4 x − 20 x − 16
=
4x x ( x + 4)
3

3 x 2 − 24 x − 16
=
4x x ( x + 4)
3

Answer
3 x 2 − 24 x − 16
4x x ( x + 4)
3

d2y
TF 11 Determine the equation of the tangent to the curve y = x3 + 3 x 2 − 5 x − 3 at the point where = 0.
dx 2
Worked solution
y = x3 + 3x 2 − 5 x − 3
dy
= 3x 2 + 6 x − 5
dx
d2y
= 6x + 6
dx 2
d2y
Let = 0.
dx 2
6x + 6 = 0
x = −1
Determine the coordinate pair where the second derivative is equal to zero, and the gradient at
this x -value.
Where x = −1 :

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

( 1) + 3 ( −1) − 5 ( −1) − 3
3 2
y =−
=−1 + 3 + 5 − 3
=4
The point is ( −1, 4 ) .

dy
= 3 ( −1) + 6 ( −1) − 5
2

dx
= 3−6−5
= −8
So m = −8
Now use y − y1= m ( x − x1 ) to find the equation of the tangent.

y − y1= m ( x − x1 )
y − 4 =−8 ( x + 1)
=−8 x − 8
y =−8 x − 8 + 4
=−8 x − 4
Answer
y=−8 x − 4

d2y
TF 12 For y = x , determine the value of x for which y + =
0.
dx 2
Worked solution
y= x
= x2
1

dy 1 − 12
= x
dx 2
d 2 y  1   1  − 32
=  −   x
dx 2  2   2 
( )
1
= − 3
4x 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
d2y 1
y+ =x 2 − 3
1

2
dx 4x 2
4x 2 −1
4

= 3
4x 2
4x2 −1
= 3
4x 2
4x2 −1
= 3
4x 2
Setting this expression equal to zero:
4 x2 −1
3 =0
4x 2
4 x 2 − 1 =0
4x2 = 1
1
x2 =
4
1
x= ±
2
1 1
Reject x = − because − is not defined.
2 2
1
So x = is the only solution.
2
Answer
1
x=
2

TF 13 A particle moves in a straight line so that its position, x metres, at time t seconds is given by
2
x= , t ≥ 0.
1+ t2

(a) Determine the particle’s initial velocity.

Worked solution
2
x=
1+ t2
( )
− 12
= 2 1+ t2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

( 2 )  −  ( 2t ) 1 + t 2 ( )
dx 1 − 32
=
dt  2
2t
= −
( )
3

1+ t2
2

When t = 0 :
dx 2× 0
=
− =
0
( )
3
dt 1 + 02
2

The particle’s initial velocity is 0 m/s .

Answer
0 m/s

(b) Determine the particle’s initial acceleration.

Worked solution

( )
dx − 32
( −2t ) 1 + t 2
=
dt

(1 + t )
− 32
Let u ( t ) = −2t and v ( t )= 2
.

Therefore:
u ′ ( t ) = −2
 3
( )
− 52
v′ ( t ) =  −  ( 2t ) 1 + t
2

 2
−3t
=
( )
5

1+ t2
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
d 2x
= u ( t ) v′ ( t ) + v ( t ) u ′ ( t )
dt 2
 
 −3t  1
( −2t ) 
=
2 2 
+ 3 ( −2 )

( ) ( )
5

 1 + t  1 + t 2 2

6t 2 2
= −
(1 + t ) (1 + t )
5 3
2 2 2 2

6t − 2 (1 + t )
2 2

=
(1 + t )
5
2 2

6t 2 − 2 − 2t 2
=
(1 + t )
5
2 2

4t 2 − 2
=
(1 + t 2 )
5
2

When t = 0 :
d 2 x 4 × 02 − 2
= 5 = −2
dt 2 1+ 0 (
2 2
)
The particle’s initial acceleration is −2 m/s .
2

Answer
−2 m/s 2

TF 14 For
d
dx
( g ( x ) ) = h ( x ) and
d
dx
( h ( x ) ) = g x 2
,
d2
dx 2 ( ) ( )
g ( x 3 ) is equal to which of the following?

A h ( x3 ) B g ( x6 ) C 9 x 4 g ( x 6 ) + 6 xh ( x 3 ) D 3x 2h ( x 3 )

Worked solution

Given
d
dx
( g ( x ) ) = h ( x ) and
d
dx
( h ( x )) = g x2 . ( )
d
dx
(
g ( x3=
) )
3x 2 × h ( x3 )

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Using the product rule:
d2
dx 2 (
g ( x3 ) = )
3x 2 ×
d
dx
( )
h ( x3 ) + h ( x3 ) × 6 x

= ( 3 x )( 3 x 2 ) g ( x 6 ) + 6 x × h ( x3 )
2

= 9 x 4 g ( x 6 ) + 6 x × h ( x3 )

The correct option is C.

Answer
C

TF 15 The position of a particle from a fixed origin O is given by x ( t ) =( t − 1)( t − 3)( t − 6 ) , 0 ≤ t ≤ 7, where
x is the distance in centimetres, to the right is positive, and t is time in seconds.

(a) Describe the particle’s behaviour, in terms of position, speed and acceleration, at the start and
finish.
Worked solution
x (t ) =( t − 1)( t − 3)( t − 6 ) , 0 ≤ t ≤ 7
This is a positive cubic with x -intercepts (1, 0 ) , ( 3, 0 ) , ( 6, 0 ) .

The y -intercept (and left-hand endpoint):

x (0) =( 0 − 1)( 0 − 3)( 0 − 6 )
= −18
The coordinates of the y-intercept are ( 0, −18 ) .
The right-hand endpoint:
x (7) =( 7 − 1)( 7 − 3)( 7 − 6 )
= ( 6 )( 4 )(1)
= 24
The coordinates of the right-hand endpoint are ( 7, 24 ) .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

(
x ( t ) = ( t − 1) t 2 − 9t + 18 )
=t 3 − 10t 2 + 27t − 18
x ( 0 ) = −18 , x ( 7 ) = 24

v (t ) = x ' (t )
= 3t 2 − 20t + 27
v ( 0 ) = 27

v ( 7 ) = 3 ( 7 ) − 20 ( 7 ) + 27
2

= 147 − 140 + 27
= 34
a ( t ) = x '' ( t )
= 6t − 20
a ( 0 ) = −20

( 7 ) 6 ( 7 ) − 20
a=
= 42 − 20
= 22
From the graph and values, you can tell position, speed and acceleration.
At the start, t = 0 : x ( 0 ) = −18 , v ( 0 ) = 27 , a ( 0 ) = −20

The particle is 18 cm to the left of the origin, travelling at 27 cm/s towards the origin, slowing
down at a rate of 20 cm/s2 .
At the finish, t = 7 : x ( 7 ) = 24 , v ( 7 ) = 34 , a ( 7 ) = 22

The particle is 24 cm to the right of the origin, travelling at 34 cm/s away from the origin,
speeding up at a rate of 22 cm/s 2 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
At the start, the particle is 18 cm to the left of the origin travelling at 27 cm/s towards the
origin, slowing down at a rate of 20 cm/s 2 . At the finish, the particle is 24 cm to the right of the
origin travelling at 34 cm/s away from the origin, speeding up at a rate of 22 cm/s 2 .

(b) Determine the period of time, in the form a < t < b , when the particle is:
(i) to the left of the origin and moving away from the origin

Worked solution
To the left of the origin, accelerating away from the origin:

The region required is from ( 3, 0 ) to the minimum.

v ( t ) = 3t 2 − 20t + 27

The minimum occurs the second time that v ( t ) = 0 .

3t 2 − 20t + 27 =
0

( −20 ) − 4 ( 3)( 27 )
2
20 ±
t=
2 ( 3)
20 ± 400 − 324
=
6
20 ± 400 − 324
=
6
20 ± 76
=
6
20 ± 2 19
=
6
10 ± 19
=
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

10 + 19
The second value is t = .
3
10 + 19
The particle is to the left of the origin, accelerating away from the origin for 3 < t < .
3
Answer
10 + 19
3<t <
3
(ii) to the right of the origin and moving towards the origin.

Worked solution
To the right of the origin, accelerating towards the origin:

The region required is from the maximum point to ( 3, 0 ) .

The minimum occurs the first time that v ( t ) = 0 .

10 ± 19 10 − 19
t= , so the first value is t = .
3 3
10 − 19
So the particle is to the right of the origin, accelerating towards the origin for < t < 3.
3
Answer
10 − 19
<t <3
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
16 Let P ( a, b ) be a point on the curve of f ( x ) = 3 x 2 , 0 ≤ x ≤ 1 , as shown in the diagram.

(a) If the function r ( a ) gives the distance AP , where A is the point (1,0 ) , determine expressions
for r ( a ) , r ' ( a ) and r '' ( a ) .

Worked solution
Point P lies on the curve with equation f ( x ) = 3 x 2 .

The coordinates of P can be written as a, 3a 2 . ( )

The distance AP can be defined by using Pythagoras’ theorem or the formula for the distance
between two points.

In ∆ABP , AB = 1 − a and BP = 3a 2 .

=
AP AB 2 + BP 2

(1 − a ) ( )
2 2
= + 3a 2

= 1 − 2a + a 2 + 9a 4

So r ( a ) = 1 − 2a + a 2 + 9a 4 , 0 ≤ a ≤ 1 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1
Let r = u 2 , where u =−
1 2a + a 2 + 9a 4 .
dr 1 − 12
= u
du 2
1
=
2 u
du
= −2 + 2a + 36a 3
da
(
= 2 18a 3 + a − 1 )
dr dr du
= ×
da du da
=
1
(
× 2 18a 3 + a − 1 )
2 9a + a − 2a + 1 4 2

18a 3 + a − 1
=
9a 4 + a 2 − 2a + 1
18a 3 + a − 1
r '(a) =
9a 4 + a 2 − 2a + 1
1

( 9a )
−
=
Let ' ( a ) uv , where U = 18a 3 + a − 1 , v=
w r= 4
+ a 2 − 2a + 1 2 .

U ' = 54a 2 + 1
3

( ) ( 36a )
1 −
v' =
− 9a 4 + a 2 − 2a + 1 2 3
+ 2a − 2
2
3

( ) (18a )
−
=− 9a + a − 2a + 14 2 2 3
+ a −1
18a 3 + a − 1
= −
( 9a 4
+ a 2 − 2a + 1 ) 9a 4 + a 2 − 2a + 1

r '' ( a=
) Uv '+ vU '
 
18a 3 + a − 1
(
18a 3 + a − 1  −
= ) + 1
54a 2 + 1 ( )
 9a + a − 2a + 1 9a + a − 2a + 1 

4 2 4 2
 (
9a + a − 2a + 1
4 2
)
( 54a + 1)( 9a + a − 2a + 1) − (18a + a − 1)
2
2 4 2 3

=
( 9a + a − 2a + 1) 9a + a − 2a + 1
4 2 4 2

You could expand and simplify the numerator, but the process is tedious and has little benefit.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer

r ( a ) = 1 − 2a + a 2 + 9a 4 , 0 ≤ a ≤ 1 ;

18a 3 + a − 1
r '(a) = ;
9a 4 + a 2 − 2a + 1

( 54a + 1)( 9a + a − 2a + 1) − (18a + a − 1)

2
2 4 2 3

r '' ( a ) =
( 9a + a − 2a + 1) 9a + a − 2a + 1
4 2 4 2

(b) Determine the range of the function r ( a ) in exact value form.

Worked solution
A stationary point occurs where r ' ( a ) = 0 .
Using a calculator-drawn graph to assist with the factors:
18a 3 + a − 1 =0
( 3a − 1) ( 6a 2 + 2a + 1) =
0

1
a= is the only solution, because the discriminant of the quadratic is negative:
3
b 2 − 4ac =22 − 4 ( 6 )(1)
To determine whether this point is a maximum or a minimum, check the sign of the derivative
function to the left and to the right of the point.
1 dr
At the left of a = , =−1 < 0 .
3 da a =0

1 dr
At the right of a = , = 6>0.
3 da a =1
As the derivative is negative to the left of a and positive to the right of a , the distance AP is a
1
minimum for a = .
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
2 4
1 1 1 1
r   =1 − 2   +   + 9  
3 3 3 3
2 1 1
= 1− + +
3 9 9
9 6 1 1
= − + +
9 9 9 9
5
=
9
5
=
3
5
The minimum distance is .
3
The maximum distance appears to be at a = 1 , but check both end values for clarity.
End values:
r (0) = 1
=1

r (1) = 1 − 2 (1) + (1) + 9 (1)

2 4

= 1− 2 +1+ 9
=3
5
Hence, the range of r ( a ) is ≤ r ≤3.
3
Answer
5
≤r ≤3
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

Worked solutions
Chapter 6 Further applications of
differentiation
Exercise 6.3 The second derivative and curve sketching
TF Technology free question

Determine the coordinates of the point of inflection on the graph of y = x − 3 x − 2 x − 2 .

3 2
TF 1

Worked solution
y = x 3 − 3x 2 − 2 x − 2
dy
= 3x 2 − 6 x − 2
dx
d2y
= 6x − 6
dx 2
d2y
Let = 0.
dx 2
6x − 6 =0
6x = 6
x =1
d2y
Where x < 1 , < 0.
dx 2
d2y
Where x > 1 , > 0.
dx 2
Hence, there is a point of inflection where x = 1 .
Now determine this point’s y -coordinate.

y = 13 − 3 × 12 − 2 × 1 − 2
=1− 3− 2 − 2
= −6
The coordinates of the point of inflection are (1, −6 ) .

Answer
(1, −6 )

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

TF 2 Determine the coordinates of the point of inflection on the graph of y =

−2 x3 + 12 x 2 + 2 x − 1 .

Worked solution
y=
−2 x 3 + 12 x 2 + 2 x − 1
dy
=
−6 x 2 + 24 x + 2
dx
d2y
=
−12 x + 24
dx 2
d2y
Let = 0.
dx 2
−12 x + 24 =
0
−12 x =
−24
x=2
d2y
Where x < 2 , > 0.
dx 2
d2y
Where x > 2 , < 0.
dx 2
Hence, there is a point of inflection where x = 2 .
Now determine this point’s y -coordinate.

y =−2 × 23 + 12 × 22 + 2 × 2 − 1
=−2 × 8 + 12 × 4 + 4 − 1
=−16 + 48 + 4 − 1
= 35
The coordinates of the point of inflection are ( 2,35) .

Answer
( 2,35)

Demonstrate that the graph with equation y =−3 x − x + 5 does not have a point of inflection.
2
TF 3

Worked solution
y =−3x 2 − x + 5
dy
=−6 x − 1
dx
d2y
= −6
dx 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Because the second derivative is constant, it cannot change sign anywhere, hence there are no
points of inflection.
Answer
d2y
= −6 Since the second derivative is constant, it cannot change sign, so there are no points
dx 2
of inflection.

TF 4 Determine the set of values of x for which the graph with equation=
y 4 x 2 − x3 is concave
downwards.
Worked solution
=
y 4 x2 − x3
dy
= 8 x − 3x 2
dx
d2y
= 8 − 6x
dx 2
Determine the x -values that make the second derivative negative.
8 − 6x < 0
−6 x < − 8
8
x>
6
4
x>
3
4
The second derivative is negative for x > .
3
4
Therefore the graph is concave downward for x > .
3
Answer
4
x>
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
3 5
5 ( x)
The graph of the function f = x − 10 x3 is concave up for which of the following values of x ?
2

A x>0 B − 2 < x < 0 and x > 2

C x> 2 D −2 < x < 2

Worked solution
3 5
( x)
f= x − 10 x 3
2
15 x 4
( x)
f ′= − 30 x 2
2
60 x 3
( x)
f ′′= − 60 x
2
= 30 x 3 − 60 x
= 30 x ( x 2 − 2 )

The x -intercepts of f ′′ ( x ) occur where f ′′ ( x ) = 0 :

=0 30 x ( x 2 − 2 )

(
= 30 x x − 2 )( x + 2 )
x = 0 or x = ± 2

( )
The x -intercepts of f ′′ ( x ) are − 2,0 , ( 0,0 ) and ( )
2,0 .

The function f ′′ ( x ) is a positive cubic function; therefore, f ′′ ( x ) is greater than zero between
the first two x -intercepts from left to right, and again to the right of the third x -intercept.
Sketch the graph, using technology if necessary, to see where the graph of f ′′ ( x ) > 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

So the second derivative is positive where − 2 < x < 0 and x > 2 .

That is, the graph of the function is concave up for these values.
The correct option is B.
Answer
B

TF 6 Consider the function f ( x ) =− x3 + 3x + 2 .

(a) Use second derivative analysis to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.
Worked solution
f ( x) =− x3 + 3x + 2

f ′( x) =
−3 x 2 + 3

f ′′ ( x ) = −6 x

Determine where f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

−3 x 2 + 3 =0
−3 x 2 =
−3
x2 = 1
x = ±1

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Determine the corresponding y -coordinates for each of these x -values.
f ( −1) =− ( −1) + 3 ( −1) + 2
3

=1 − 3 + 2
=0

f (1) =
− (1) + 3 (1) + 2
3

=−1 + 3 + 2
=4
The stationary points are ( −1, 0 ) and (1, 4 ) .

Now find the sign of f ′′ ( x ) at each of these x -values.

f ′′ ( −1) =−6 ( −1)

=6
Given that f ′′ ( −1) > 0 , then ( −1, 0 ) is a local minimum stationary point.

f ′′ (1) = −6 (1)
= −6
Given that f ′′ (1) < 0 , then (1, 4 ) is a local maximum stationary point.

Answer
local minimum: ( −1, 0 ) ; local maximum: (1, 4 )

(b) Determine the coordinates of the point of inflection.

Worked solution
f ′′ ( x ) = −6 x
Determine where the second derivative is equal to zero.
0 = −6 x
x=0
Calculate the y -coordinate.

f ( x) =− x3 + 3x + 2

f (0) =
− (0) + 3(0) + 2
3

=2
There is a point of inflection at ( 0, 2 ) .

Answer
( 0, 2 )

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Determine the coordinates of the y -intercept.

Worked solution
f ( x) =− x3 + 3x + 2

f (0) =
− (0) + 3(0) + 2
3

=2
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 2 ) .

Answer
( 0, 2 )
(d) Determine the coordinates of the x -intercepts and hence sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , marking
in all key features.
Worked solution
Factorise f ( x ) using one of the known techniques and let f ( x ) = 0 to calculate the
x -intercepts.
f ( x) =− ( x − 2 )( x + 1)
2

Use the null factor law to solve for x .

− ( x − 2 )( x + 1) =
2
0
x = 2 or x = −1

Therefore the coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −1, 0 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .

Answer

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 7 Consider the function f ( x=
) x4 − 4 x .
(a) Use second derivative analysis to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.
Worked solution
f ( x=
) x4 − 4 x
f ′ (=
x ) 4 x3 − 4

f ′′ ( x ) = 12 x 2

Determine where f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

=
0 4 x3 − 4
4 = 4 x3
x= 31
=1
Determine the y -coordinate of the stationary point.

f (1) = 14 − 4 ×1
= 1− 4
= −3
(1, −3) is a stationary point.
Check the sign of f ′′ ( x ) at this point.

) 12 > 0
f ′′ (1=

Because f ′′ (1) > 0 , (1, −3) is a local minimum.

Answer
minimum: (1, −3)

(b) Demonstrate that the graph y = f ( x ) does not have a point of inflection.

Worked solution
f ′′ ( x ) = 12 x 2
This is a positive quadratic, which is never below the x -axis, so, it cannot change sign.
Answer
The second derivative does not change sign over its domain. Hence, the graph of f does not
have a point of inflection.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Determine the coordinates of the axis intercepts. Then plot the graph of y = f ( x ) , marking in
all key features.
Worked solution
f ( x=
) x4 − 4 x
f ( 0 ) = 04 − 4 × 0
=0
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 0 ) .

f ( x=
) x4 − 4 x
= x x3 − 4 ( )
Let f ( x ) = 0 .

(
x x3 − 4 =
0 )
x = 0 or x3 = 4
For x3 = 4 : x = 3 4

The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( 0, 0 ) and ( 3

)
4, 0 .

Answer

TF 8 Consider the function=

y 5 x 4 − x5 .

(a) Where does the graph of the function have a point of inflection?

A ( 0, 0) only B ( 3,162 ) only

C ( 0, 0) and ( 3,162 ) D ( 0, 0) and ( 4, 256 )

Worked solution
=
y 5 x 4 − x5

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dy
= 20 x3 − 5 x 4
dx
d2y
= 2
60 x 2 − 20 x3
dx
= 20 x 2 ( 3 − x )

d2y
Let = 0.
dx 2
=0 20 x 2 ( 3 − x )

x = 0 or x = 3
Where x = −1 :
d2y
=20 ( −1) ( 3 + 1)
2
2
dx
= 80
Where x = 1 :
d2y
20 (1) ( 3 − 1)
2
= 2
dx
= 40
d2y
The sign of does not change at x = 0 , so there is no point of inflection there.
dx 2
Where x = 2 :
d2y
20 ( 2 ) ( 3 − 2 )
2
= 2
dx
= 80
Where x = 4 :
d2y
20 ( 4 ) ( 3 − 4 )
2
= 2
dx
= −320
d2y
The sign of changes at x = 3 , so this is a point of inflection.
dx 2
Calculate the y -coordinate by substituting x = 3 into the original function.

y 5 ( 3) − 35
4
=
= 162
The graph has a point of inflection at ( 3,162 ) only.
The correct option is B.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
B

(b) Explain the common error made by a student who failed to eliminate the second solution to
d 2y
= 0 in part (a).
dx 2
Worked solution
When the second derivative is zero, there may be a local maximum, a local minimum or a
stationary point of inflection.
Answer
When the second derivative is zero, there may be a local maximum, a local minimum or a
stationary point of inflection.

Consider the function y= 2 x ( 3 x + 1)( 2 − x ) .

2
9

(a) Determine the coordinates of the y -intercept.

Worked solution

y= 2 x ( 3 x + 1)( 2 − x )
2

Where x = 0 :

y 2 ( 0 ) ( 3 ( 0 ) + 1) ( 2 − ( 0 ) )
2
=
=0
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 0 ) .

Answer
( 0, 0 )
(b) Determine the exact coordinates of the x -intercepts.
Worked solution

y= 2 x ( 3 x + 1)( 2 − x )
2

Let y = 0 .

2 x ( 3 x + 1)( 2 − x ) = 0
2

1
x =0, x = − or x = 2
3
 1 
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are  − , 0  , ( 0, 0 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .
 3 

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
 1 
 − , 0  , ( 0, 0 ) , ( 2, 0 )
 3 

(c) Calculate the coordinates, correct to 2 decimal places, of the stationary points and determine
their nature.
Worked solution
Use technology to draw the graph and read off the maximum and minimum points.

The local minima are ( −0.18, −0.79 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .

The local maximum is ( 0.93,8.07 ) .

Answer
local minima: ( −0.18, −0.79 ) and ( 2, 0 ) ; local maximum: ( 0.93,8.07 )

(d) Determine the coordinates of the points of inflection, correct to 2 decimal places. Then sketch
the graph of y = f ( x ) , marking in all key features.

Worked solution
y= 2 x ( 3 x + 1)( 2 − x )
2

( )(
= 6x2 + 2x 4 − 4x + x2 )
= 24 x 2 − 24 x 3 + 6 x 4 + 8 x − 8 x 2 + 2 x 3
=
6 x 4 − 22 x 3 + 16 x 2 + 8 x

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dy
= 24 x 3 − 66 x 2 + 32 x + 8
dx
d2y
2
= 72 x 2 − 132 x + 32
dx
d2y
Points of inflection where = 0.
dx 2
d2y
From technology, = 0 when x = 0.2875 or x = 1.5458 .
dx 2
Reading coordinates from the graph of the original function, points of inflection are ( 0.29,3.14 )
and (1.55,3.60 ) .

Answer

, x ∈ {[ −4,0 ) ∪ ( 0,4]} .
12
TF 10 Consider the function f ( x=
) x3 −
x

(a) Determine expressions for the first and second derivatives of the function.
Worked solution
12
f ( x=
) x3 −
x
12
f ′ (=
x ) 3x 2 +
x2
24
f ′′ ( x=
) 6x −
x3
Answer
12 24
f ′ (=
x ) 3x 2 + 2
, f ′′ ( x=
) 6x − 3
x x

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the coordinates of any points of inflection of f ( x ) with the given domain.

Worked solution
Use the second derivative analysis to determine any points of inflection.
Points of inflection occur when the second derivative equals zero and the concavity of the curve
changes at this point.
f ′′ ( x ) = 0
24
6x − =0
x3
6 x 4 − 24
=0
x3
x4 − 4 =0
x= ± 2
Where x < − 2 , f ′′ ( x ) < 0 , so the curve is concave down.

Where − 2 < x < 0 , f ′′ ( x ) > 0 , so the curve is concave up.

Therefore, there is a point of inflection at x = − 2 .

( ) ( ) 12
3
f − 2 =− 2 −
− 2
=
−2 2 + 6 2
=4 2

(− )
2, 4 2 is a point of inflection.

Where 0 < x < 2 , f ′′ ( x ) < 0 , so the curve is concave down.

Where x > 2 , f ′′ ( x ) > 0 , so the curve is concave up.

Therefore, there is a point of inflection at x = 2 .

( ) ( 2) 12
3
f=
2 −
2
= 2 2 −6 2
= −4 2

(
There are two points of inflection: − 2, 4 2 and ) ( 2, − 4 2 . )
Answer

(− 2, 4 2 , ) ( 2, − 4 2 )

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

TF 11 Consider the function (

f ( x ) x2 x2 − 3 .
= )
(a) Determine the coordinates of any stationary points and their nature.
Worked solution
f ( x ) x2 x2 − 3
= ( )
= x − 3x
4 2

x ) 4 x3 − 6 x
f ′ (=

( x ) 12 x 2 − 6
f ′′=

Determine where f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

4 x3 − 6 x =
0
(
2x 2x2 − 3 =
0 )
x = 0 or 2 x 2 − 3 =0
For 2 x 2 − 3 =0:
3
x2 =
2
3
x= ±
2
6
= ±
2
Now determine the corresponding y -coordinates for each of these x -values.

f ( 0 ) 02 02 − 3
= ( )
=0
 6   6  6 
f  − =    − 3 
 2   4  4 
 6  6 
=   − 
 4  4 
9
= −
4
 6   6  6 
f=
     − 3 
 2   4  4 
9
= −
4

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

 6 9  6 9
So there are stationary points at  − , −  , ( 0, 0 ) and  , −  .
 2 4  2 4

Now determine the sign of f ′′ ( x ) at each of these x -values.

′′ ( 0 ) 12 ( 0 ) − 6
f=
= −6
So ( 0, 0 ) is a local maximum.
2
 6  6
f ′′  −  =12  −  − 6
 2   2 
6
= 12 × − 6
4
= 18 − 6
= 12
 6  6 9
Given that f ′′  −  − , −  is a local minimum.
 2  > 0
, then
   2 4
2
 6  6
f ′′ 
=  12   − 6
 2   2 
= 12
 6  6 9
Given that f ′′  , −  is a local minimum.
 2  > 0 
, then
   2 4

Answer
 6 9  6 9
local minima:  − , −  and  , −  ; local maximum: ( 0, 0 )
 2 4  2 4

(b) Determine the coordinates of the points of inflection.

Worked solution

(
f ( x ) x2 x2 − 3
= )
= x 4 − 3x 2
f ′ (=
x ) 4 x3 − 6 x

( x ) 12 x 2 − 6
f ′′=

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Determine where the second derivative is equal to zero.
12 x 2 − 6 =0
12 x 2 = 6
1
x2 =
2
1
x= ±
2
2
= ±
2
Now calculate the corresponding y -coordinates.

2    
2 2
 2  2
f  −  =
 −   −  − 3 
 2   2 
  2  

 2  2 
=   − 3 
 4  4 
 1  10 
=   − 
 2  4 
5
= −
4

 2   2  
2 2
 2
=
f  
     − 3 
 2   2    2  

 2  2 
=   − 3 
 4  4 
5
= −
4
 2 5  2 5
The points of inflection are  − , −  and  , −  .
 2 4   2 4

Answer
 2 5  2 5
 − , −  ,  , − 
 2 4  2 4

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Determine the coordinates of the axis intercepts. Then sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , marking in
all key features.
Worked solution

(
f ( x ) x2 x2 − 3
= )
f (=
0 ) 0 ( 0 − 3)
=0
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 0 ) .

Let f ( x ) = 0 .

(
x2 x2 − 3 =
0)
x = 0 or x = ± 3

(
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are − 3, 0 , ( 0, 0 ) and) ( )
3, 0 .

Answer

TF 12 Consider the function f ( x ) =x 4 − 2 x 2 − 8 .

(a) Use second derivative analysis to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.
Worked solution
f ( x ) =x 4 − 2 x 2 − 8

x ) 4 x3 − 4 x
f ′ (=

( x ) 12 x 2 − 4
f ′′=

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Determine where f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

4 x3 − 4 x =
0
(
4x x2 −1 =
0 )
x = 0 or x = ±1
f ( −1) =−
( 1) − 2 ( −1) − 8
4 2

=1 − 2 − 8
= −9
f (0) =
0 − 2 ( 0) − 8
= −8
f (1) = 14 − 2 ×14 − 8
= −9
There are stationary points at ( −1, −9 ) , ( 0, −8 ) and (1, −9 ) .

Check the sign of f ′′ ( x ) at these points.

f ′′ ( −1) = 12 ( −1) − 4
2

= 12 − 4
=8
As this is positive, ( −1, −9 ) is a local minimum.

f ′′ ( 0 ) = 12 × 0 − 4
= −4
As this is negative, ( 0, −8 ) is a local maximum.

f ′′ (1) = 12 ×1 − 4
=8
As this is positive, (1, −9 ) is a local minimum.

Answer
local minima: ( −1, −9 ) and (1, −9 ) ; local maximum: ( 0, −8 )

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the exact coordinates of any point(s) of inflection.
Worked solution
( x ) 12 x 2 − 4
f ′′=

Let f ′′ ( x ) = 0 .

12 x 2 − 4 =0
12 x 2 = 4
4
x2 =
12
1
=
3
1
x= ±
3
3
= ±
3
Determine the corresponding y -values.
4 2
 3  3  3
f  −  =  −  − 2  −  − 8
 3   3   3 
9 3
= − 2× − 8
81 9
1 2
= − −8
9 3
77
= −
9
4 2
 3  3  3
f   =  − 2   − 8
 3   3   3 
9 3
= − 2× − 8
81 9
77
= −
9
 3 77   3 77 
The points of inflection are  − , −  and  , −  .
 3 9   3 9 

Answer
 3 77   3 77 
 − , −  and  , − 
 3 9   3 9 

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Determine the coordinates of the axis intercepts and hence sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) ,
marking in all key features.
Worked solution
f ( x ) =x 4 − 2 x 2 − 8

f (0) = 0 − 0 − 8
= −8
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, −8 ) .

f ( x) = 0 :

x4 − 2x2 − 8 =0
(x 2
)(
− 4 x2 + 2 =
0 )
( x + 2 )( x − 2 ) ( x 2
+ 2) =
0

x = −2 or x = 2 .
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −2, 0 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .

Answer

f ( x)
TF 13 Consider the function = cos ( x ) + 3 sin ( x ) , 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π .

(a) Use second derivative analysis to locate the coordinates of any stationary points and determine
their nature.
Worked solution
f ( x ) cos ( x ) + 3 sin ( x )
=

− sin ( x ) + 3 cos ( x )
f '( x) =

Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

− sin ( x ) + 3 cos ( x ) =
0
sin ( x ) = 3 cos ( x )
tan ( x ) = 3

π 4π
So x = or x = .
3 3
π  π  π 
=
f   cos   + 3 sin  
3 3 3
1 3
= + 3×
2 2
1 3
= +
2 2
=2
 4π   4π   4π 
=
f  cos   + 3 sin  
 3   3   3 
1  3
=− + 3 ×  − 
2  2 
1 3
= − −
2 2
= −2
π   4π 
The stationary points are  , 2  and  , −2  .
3   3 
f '( x) =
− sin ( x ) + 3 cos ( x )

− cos ( x ) − 3 sin ( x )
f '' ( x ) =

Note that f ′′ ( x ) = − f ( x ) , so the original graph is concave down when the graph is above the
x -axis, and concave up when it is below the axis.
π  π  π 
f ''   =− cos   − 3 sin  
3 3 3
1 3
=− − 3 ×
2 2
= −2
π  π 
Given that f ''   < 0 , then  , 2  is a local maximum.
3 3 

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
 4π   4π  4π 
f ''  =− cos   − 3 sin  
 3   3   3 
 1  3
=−  −  − 3 ×  − 
 2  2 
1 3
= +
2 2
=2
 4π   4π 
Given that f ''   > 0 , then  , −2  is a local minimum.
 3   3 
Answer
π   4π 
local maximum:  , 2  ; local minimum:  , −2 
3   3 

(b) Determine the coordinates of any points of inflection.

Worked solution
f '' ( x ) =
− cos ( x ) − 3 sin ( x )

Let f '' ( x ) = 0 .

− cos ( x ) − 3 sin ( x ) =
0
− 3 sin ( x ) =
cos ( x )
1
tan ( x ) = −
3
5π 11π
So x = or x = .
6 6
 5π   5π   5π 
=
f  cos   + 3 sin  
 6   6   6 
3 1
=
− + 3×
2 2
=0
 11π   11π   11π 
=
f  cos   + 3 sin  
 6   6   6 
3  1
= + 3 ×− 
2  2
=0
 5π   11π 
So the points of inflection are the x -intercepts  , 0  and  ,0 .
 6   6 

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
 5π   11π 
 , 0  and  ,0
 6   6 

(c) Sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , marking in all key features.

Worked solution
f ( 0 ) cos ( 0 ) + 3 sin ( 0 )
=
=1
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0,1) .

The other endpoint is ( 2π ,1) .

Note that the x -intercepts have already been determined.
Answer

1
14 Consider the function g ( x ) = , k > 0.
x +k2

(a) Use second derivative analysis to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.
Worked solution
1
g ( x) =
x +k
2

(x )
−1
= 2
+k

( )
−2
g′( x) =
( −1)( 2 x ) x 2 + k
g ′ ( x ) = 0 where x = 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
1
g (0) =
k
 1
The stationary point is  0,  .
 k
Now check the value of g ′′ ( x ) to determine the nature of the point.

−2x
g′( x) =
(x )
2
2
+k

Let u ( x ) = −2 x and v ( =
x) (x )
2
2
+k .

Therefore, u ′ ( x ) = −2 .

v′ ( x ) 2 ( 2 x ) x 2 + k
= ( )
= 4 x x2 + k ( )
v ( x ) u ′ ( x ) − u ( x ) v′ ( x )
g ′′ ( x ) =
(v ( x ))
2

(x + k ) ( −2 ) − ( −2 x )( 4 x ) ( x 2 + k )
2 2

=
(x + k)
2 4

=
(x 2
(
+ k ) −2 ( x 2 + k ) + 8 x 2 )
(x + k)
2 4

−2 x 2 − 2k + 8 x 2
=
(x + k)
2 3

6 x 2 − 2k
=
(x + k) 2 3

2 ( 3x − k ) 2

=
(x + k) 2 3

2 (0 − k )
g ′′ ( 0 ) =
k3
2 ( −k )
=
k3
−2
= 2
k
−2  1
Because k > 0 , g ′′ ( =
0) < 0 , hence  0,  is a local maximum.
 k
2
k

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
 1
local maximum:  0, 
 k

(b) Determine the coordinates of any points of inflection.

Worked solution

g ′′ ( x ) =
(
2 3x 2 − k )
(x )
3
2
+k

g ′′ ( x ) = 0 where:

3x 2 − k =0
3x 2 = k
k
x2 =
3
k
x= ±
3
Now calculate the corresponding y -coordinates.
1
g ( x) =
x +k
2

 k  k
g  −  = g  
 3  3
1
= k
3 +k

3
=
4k
 k 3   k 3 
The points of inflection are  − ,  and  ,  .
 3 4 k   3 4k 

Use technology to sketch a member of the family of graphs, and check that there are two points
of inflection.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
 k 3   k 3 
 − ,  ,  , 
 3 4k   3 4k 

(c) Determine the domain and range of g .

Worked solution
x 2 + k > 0 for all values of x as x 2 ≥ 0 and k > 0 .
Domain:  or ( −∞, ∞ )

 1
The graph has a maximum value located at  0,  and a horizontal asymptote at y = 0 .
 k
 1
Range:  0, 
 k
Answer
 1
domain: ( −∞, ∞ ) ; range:  0, 
 k

(d) Sketch the graph of y = g ( x ) , marking in all key features.

Worked solution
See answer for the worked solution
Answer

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
4
TF 15 Consider the function f ( x )= x + .
x

(a) Use second derivative analysis to locate the coordinates of any stationary points and determine
their nature.
Worked solution
4
f ( x )= x +
x
= x + 4 x −1
f ′ ( x ) = 1 − 4 x −2
4
= 1−
x2
Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

4
1− =
0
x2
4
1= 2
x
x =4
2

x = ±2
For the y -coordinates.
4
f ( −2 ) =−2 +
( −2 )
=−2 − 2
= −4
4
f ( 2 )= 2 +
2
=4
Therefore, there are stationary points at ( −2, −4 ) and ( 2, 4 ) .

f ′ ( x ) = 1 − 4 x −2

f ′′ ( x ) = 8 x −3
8
=
x3
f ′′ ( −2 ) =−1 < 0

Therefore, ( −2, −4 ) is a local maximum.

f ′′ ( 2 )= 1 > 0

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Therefore, ( 2, 4 ) is a local minimum.

Answer
local maximum: ( −2, −4 ) ; local minimum: ( 2, 4 )

(b) Demonstrate that the curve y = f ( x ) does not have a point of inflection.

Worked solution
See answer for the worked solution.
Answer
8
f ′′ ( x ) = No value of x can make this equal zero, so there are no points of inflection.
x3

(c) Determine the equations of any asymptotes.

Worked solution
A vertical asymptote will exist for any x -value that makes the function undefined. f ( x ) is
undefined for x = 0 , so this will be a vertical asymptote.
4
f ( x )= x +
x
4
At the extremes, as x → ±∞ , → 0 so y → x .
x
So y = x would be an oblique asymptote.
Answer
x = 0, y = x

(d) Sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , marking in all key features.

Worked solution
See answer for the worked solution.
Answer

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

Worked solutions
Chapter 6 Further applications of
differentiation
Exercise 6.4 Maximum and minimum problems
TF Technology free question

TF 1 A rectangle has two of its vertices on the x-axis and the other two lie above the x-axis on the parabola
y= 9 − x 2 . Determine the dimensions of the rectangle for it to have maximum area.

Worked solution

Domain: 0 < x < 3

The general point on the parabola to consider is ( x, 9 − x 2 ) .

The area of the rectangle is:

(
( x ) 2 x 9 − x2
A= )
= 18 x − 2 x3
dA
= 18 − 6 x 2
dx
d2A
= −12 x
dx 2
dA
Let =0.
dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
0= 18 − 6 x 2
x2 = 3
x= ± 3
The dimensions must be positive, so x = 3 gives the only stationary point.
d2A
−12 3 < 0 , therefore there will be a maximum at x = 3 .
=
dx 2

( 3)
2
y= 9 −
= 9−3
=6
The dimensions of the rectangle with maximum area, symmetrical about the y -axis, are
2 3 units and 6 units.
Answer
horizontal: 2 3 units ; vertical: 6 units

TF 2 A rectangular field borders a straight river. It is enclosed on three sides (excluding the riverbank) by
60 metres of fencing. The side of the field perpendicular to the river is x metres and its length is
y metres.

(a) Express y in terms of x .

Worked solution
2x + y =60
=
y 60 − 2 x
Answer
=
y 60 − 2 x

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Use second derivative analysis to determine the maximum area of the field.
Worked solution
=A x ( 60 − 2 x )
= 60 x − 2 x 2
dA
= 60 − 4 x
dx
d2A
= −4
dx 2
Because the second derivative is always negative, the stationary point gives the maximum value.
dA
The maximum area occurs where =0.
dx
=0 60 − 4 x
4 x = 60
x = 15
The distance perpendicular or at right angles to the river is 15 m .
Now calculate the value of y .
2 (15 ) + y =60
30 + y = 60
y = 30
This is a distance of 30 m parallel to the river.

The maximum area is 15 × 30 =

450 m 2 .
Answer
450 m 2

3 A rectangular field borders a straight river. It is enclosed on three sides (excluding the riverbank) by
L m of fencing. The width of the field that runs perpendicular to the river is x m , and its length,
which runs parallel to the river, is y m .

(a) Determine an expression for the length y in terms of L and x .

Worked solution
2x + y =L
y= L − 2 x
Answer
y= L − 2 x

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine an expression in factorised form for the area A ( x ) in terms of L and x .

Worked solution
A= x × y
= x ( L − 2x)
Answer
A (=
x) x ( L − 2x)

(c) Use second derivative analysis to determine the maximum area of the field in terms of L .
Worked solution
A x ( L − 2x)
=
= xL − 2 x 2
dA
= L − 4x
dx
d2A
= −4
dx 2
Because the second derivative is always negative, the stationary point gives the maximum value.
dA
The maximum area occurs where =0.
dx
0= L − 4 x
4x = L
L
x=
4
Now substitute this value back into the expression for the area to find the maximum area.
L L
=
Amax L− 
4 2
L L
= ×
4 2
L2 2
= m
8
Answer
L2 2
m
8

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 4
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(d) Hence determine the dimensions of the field of maximum area in terms of L.
Worked solution
L
The maximum area occurs where x = .
4
length = L − 2 x
L
= L − 2×
4
L
= L−
2
L
=
2
The dimensions:
L
perpendicular to the river: m
4
L
parallel to the river: m
2
Answer
L L
perpendicular to the river: m ; parallel to the river: m
4 2

4 The sum of two numbers is S .

(a) Determine expressions for the numbers, in terms of S , if their product is a maximum.
Worked solution
x+ y =S
y= S − x
Let P stand for the product of the numbers.
P x (S − x)
=
= xS − x 2
dP
= S − 2x
dx
d 2P
= −2
dx 2
Because the second derivative is always negative, the stationary point gives the maximum value.
dP
The maximum product occurs where = 0.
dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
0= S − 2 x
2x = S
S
x=
2
Using this to find the value of y :
y= S − x
S
= S−
2
S
=
2
S S
The maximum product occurs when the numbers are and .
2 2
Answer
S
Both numbers are .
2

(b) Choose the correct statement describing the maximum product.

A could be positive, negative or zero B must be positive or zero

C must be positive D must be positive or negative

Worked solution
The value of S is not restricted.
S
If S is positive, is positive, so the maximum product will be positive.
2
S
If S is negative, is negative, so the maximum product will be positive.
2
S
If S is zero, is zero, so the maximum product will be zero.
2
So the maximum product must be positive or zero.
The correct option is B.
Answer
B

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Explain the error made by a student who assumed the product could be negative.
Worked solution
The student has not considered the possibility that S could be zero.
If this were the case, the numbers would have opposite signs or would both be zero.
So the maximum product would be zero.
Answer
The student has not considered the possibility that S could be zero.

TF 5 The sum of two non-negative numbers is 30 .

(a) Use second derivative analysis to determine the minimum value for the sum of their squares.
Worked solution
Let the numbers be x and y , where x ≥ 0 and y ≥ 0 .
x+ y =
30
=
y 30 − x
Let S represent the sum of their squares.
S= x 2 + y 2
=x 2 + ( 30 − x )
2

=x 2 + 900 − 60 x + x 2
= 2 x 2 − 60 x + 900
dS
= 4 x − 60
dx
d 2S
=4
dx 2
Because the second derivative is always positive, the stationary point gives the minimum value.
dS
Let =0.
dx
4 x − 60 =
0
4 x = 60
x = 15
Calculate the value of y :
=
y 30 − x
= 15

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Substituting these values in the expression for S :
S= x 2 + y 2
= 152 + 152
= 225 × 2
= 450
Thus the minimum value of the sum of the squares is 450 .
Answer
450

(b) Calculate the maximum value for the sum of their squares.
Worked solution
Because both values are non-negative, 0 ≤ x ≤ 30 .
If x = 0 , y = 30 then 02 + 302 =
900 .
The same value will be obtained if x = 30 .
The maximum value is 900 .
Answer
900

TF 6 A rectangular paddock of dimensions x m by y m has a fixed perimeter of P m .

(a) Express y in terms of x and P .

Worked solution
2x + 2 y =P
2 y= P − 2 x
P
y= −x
2
Answer
P
y= −x
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) The area of the rectangular paddock is A m 2 . Determine an expression for A ( x ) .

Worked solution
A= l × w
P 
A( x) =  − x  × x
2 
Px
= − x2
2
Answer
Px
A(=
x) − x2
2

(c) Determine the domain of A ( x ) .

Worked solution
P P
The width x must be greater than zero and less than , because the length is − x and this
2 2
cannot be zero or negative.
P
So 0 < x < .
2
Answer
P
0< x<
2

(d) Determine the expressions for A ' ( x ) and A '' ( x ) .

Worked solution
Px
A(=
x) − x2
2
P
A ' ( x=
) − 2x
2
A '' ( x ) = −2
Answer
P
A ' ( x=
) − 2 x ; A '' ( x ) = −2
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dA
(e) Determine the value of x such that = 0 and explain why this value of x corresponds to a
dx
maximum.
Worked solution
dA
=0
dx
P
− 2x = 0
2
P
2x =
2
P
x=
4
Because the second derivative is always negative, the stationary point gives the maximum value.
Answer
P
x= The second derivative is negative, so the stationary point gives the maximum value.
4

(f) In terms of P , determine the maximum area of the paddock and specify its dimensions. What
shape is the paddock?
Worked solution
P
x= m
4
P
y= −x
2
P P
= −
2 4
P
= m
4
Now determine the area:
A= x × y
P P
= ×
4 4
P2 2
= m
16
The shape is a square.
Answer
P2 2 P P
area: m ; m× m ; square
16 4 4

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 7 A square sheet of metal measures 12 m by 12 m. A square of side length x m is cut from each corner
and the resulting piece of metal is then folded and welded to form an open-topped box. Let V cubic
metres be the volume of the box.

(a) Express V in terms of x in factorised form.

Worked solution
The length of the square base will be 12 − 2x .
V = length × width × height
(12 − 2 x )(12 − 2 x ) x
=
= x (12 − 2 x )
2

Answer
( x ) x (12 − 2 x )
2
V=

(b) Determine the domain of V ( x ) .

Worked solution
The value of x must be positive and the side lengths, (12 − 2x ) , must also be positive.

12 − 2 x > 0
−2 x > −12
x<6
domain: 0 < x < 6
Answer
0< x<6

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Use second derivative analysis to determine the value of x for which the box has a maximum
volume. Hence state the maximum volume and the dimensions of the box in this case and sketch
the graph of V ( x ) .

Worked solution
V x (12 − 2 x )
2
=
(
= x 144 − 48 x + 4 x 2 )
= 144 x − 48 x 2 + 4 x 3
V ' ( x ) = 144 − 96 x + 12 x 2
(
= 12 12 − 8 x + x 2 )
= 12 ( x − 6 )( x − 2 )

V ' ( x ) = 0 , where x = 6 or x = 2 .

Reject x = 6 as it is outside the domain 0 < x < 6 .

V ( 2=
) 2 (12 − 2 × 2 )
2

= 2 (12 − 4 )
2

= 2 × 82
= 2 × 64
= 128

V '' ( x ) =−96 + 24 x

V '' ( 2 ) =−96 + 24 ( 2 )
=−48 < 0
Where x = 2 , the other length is 12 − 2 x =
8.
A maximum volume of 128 m3 occurs when the length and width are both 8 m and the height is
2 m.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
maximum volume: 128 m3 ; dimensions: 8 m × 8 m × 2 m

1
TF 8 Use second derivative analysis to determine the coordinates of the point on the graph of f ( x ) = ,
x
x > 0 , that is closest to the origin.
Worked solution
Draw a diagram to show what is happening here.

Using Pythagoras’ theorem, determine the distance D :

2
1
D= x +  
2 2

x
1
= x2 + 2
x
Assume that the minimum D occurs where D 2 is a minimum (confirmed by the positive branch
of the basic parabola). The value of x that makes D a minimum will also be the same value
that makes D 2 minimum. Optimising D 2 is easier algebraically than optimising D .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Let D 2 = S .
S ( x=
) x 2 + x −2
S ' ( x=
) 2 x − 2 x −3
=
(
2 x4 −1 )
3
x
S '' ( x )= 2 + 6 x −4

=
(
2 x4 + 3 )
4
x
S ' ( x ) = 0 where:

x4 = 1
x = ±1
Given the domain x > 0 , x = 1 gives the only stationary point.

S '' (1) =
(
2 14 + 3 )
4
1
= 8>0
Therefore, the stationary point is a minimum.
1
S (1=
) 12 +
12
=2
Therefore, D = 2 .
1
f ( x) = ,
x
1
f (1) =
1
=1
The coordinates of the point closest to the origin are (1,1) and the distance from this point to the
origin is 2 units .
Answer
(1,1)

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 9 Consider all cylinders whose height and base circumference sum to 30 metres. What radius of the
cylinder, in metres, gives the maximum volume of the cylinder?

30 10
A 10 B 20 C D
π 2
π
Worked solution
C = 2π r
h + 2π r =
30
h 30 − 2π r
=
V = π r 2h
= π r 2 ( 30 − 2π r )
= 30π r 2 − 2π 2 r 3
dV
= 60π r − 6π 2 r 2
dr
= 6π r (10 − π r )

dV
Let =0.
dr
6π r (10 − π r ) =
0

r = 0 or (10 − π r ) =
0
Reject r = 0 as there would be no cylinder.
10 − π r =0
10 = π r
10
r=
π
d 2V
= 60π − 12π 2 r
dr 2
10
When r = :
π
d 2V 10
=60π − 12π 2 ×
dr 2
π
= 60π − 120π
=−60π < 0
10
Hence, the maximum volume occurs where the radius in metres is r = .
π
The correct option is D.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
D

TF 10 A rectangular piece of metal measures 6 m by 12 m. A square of side length x m is cutfrom each

corner and the resulting piece of metal is then folded and welded to form an open-topped box. Let
V m3 be the volume of the box.

(a) Determine an expression for V ( x ) in factorised form, including the domain.

Worked solution
v = lwh
V ( x) =
(12 − 2 x )( 6 − 2 x )( x )
= 4 x ( 6 − x )( 3 − x )
The lengths cannot be zero or negative, so: x > 0 , x < 6 and x < 3 .
Therefore, the domain is 0 < x < 3 .
Answer
V ( x ) = 4 x ( 6 − x )( 3 − x ) , 0 < x < 3

(b) Use second derivative analysis to determine the exact value of x for which the box has a
maximum volume.
Worked solution
x ( 6 − 2 x )(12 − 2 x )
V ( x) =
(
= x 72 − 12 x − 24 x + 4 x 2 )
= x ( 72 − 36 x + 4 x )
2

=72 x − 36 x 2 + 4 x3
V ' ( x ) =72 − 72 x + 12 x 2

Let V ' ( x ) = 0 .

12 x 2 − 72 x + 72 =
0
(
12 x 2 − 6 x + 6 =
0 )
Now use the quadratic formula to solve this.
a = 1 , b = −6 , c = 6

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

−b ± b 2 − 4ac
x=
2a
6 ± 36 − 4 ×1× 6
=
2
6 ± 36 − 24
=
2
6 ± 12
=
2
6±2 3
=
2
= 3± 3

x= 3 − 3 gives the only stationary point within the domain 0 < x < 3 .
Use the second derivative to determine the type of point.
V '' ( x ) =−72 + 24 x

(
V '' 3 − 3 = )
−72 + 24 3 − 3 ( )
=−72 + 72 − 24 3
= −24 3
For the maximum volume V '' ( x ) < 0 .

Therefore, x= (3 − 3 ) m is where the maximum volume occurs.

Answer
x= (3 − 3 ) m
(c) Calculate the maximum volume of the box.
Worked solution
V ( x ) = 4 x ( 3 − x )( 6 − x )

( ) ( ) ( ( )) (6 − (3 − 3 ))
V 3− 3 = 4 3− 3 3− 3− 3

=4 ( 3 − 3 )( 3 )( 3 + 3 )

= 4 3 ( 9 − 3)
= 24 3
The exact maximum volume is 24 3 m3 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
24 3 m3

11 The sum of two non-negative numbers, x and y , is 12 .

(a) Determine the maximum value of x 3 + y 2 .

Worked solution
x+ y =
12
=
y 12 − x

x 3 + y 2 = x 3 + (12 − x )
2

Let S ( x ) =x3 + (12 − x ) , where 0 ≤ x ≤ 12 .

2

Use technology to sketch the graph to see what it looks like.

The maximum value occurs at the endpoint where x = 12 .

Where x = 12 , y = 0 :

x3 + y 2 =
x3
= 123
= 1728
The maximum value of x 3 + y 2 is 1728 .
Answer
1728

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the minimum value of x 3 + y 2 , correct to 2 decimal places.

Worked solution
Let S ( x ) =x3 + (12 − x ) .
2

dS
= 3 x 2 + ( 2 )( −1)(12 − x )
dx
=3 x 2 − 2 (12 − x )
= 3 x 2 − 24 + 2 x
= 3 x 2 + 2 x − 24
dS
Let =0.
dx
Using the quadratic formula:

−b ± b 2 − 4ac
x=
2a
−2 ± 22 − 4 ( 3)( −24 )
=
2 ( 3)
−2 ± 292
=
6
−1 ± 73
=
3
−1 + 73
The only solution in the domain 0 ≤ x ≤ 12 is x = .
3
Reading the approximate coordinates of the minimum from the graph: ( 2.51,105.87 ) .

The minimum value of x 3 + y 2 is 105.87 .

Answer
105.87

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

TF 12 The surface area of a shoebox in the form of a square-based prism is 5400 cm 2 . The dimensions of the
box are x × x × y as shown in the diagram.

(a) Write an expression for the volume of the box, V ( x ) .

Worked solution
Consider the formula for the volume of a rectangular prism.
V = x× x× y
= x2 y

= 2 x 2 + 4 xy , where SA = 5400 cm 2
SA
Write y in terms of x .
= 2 x 2 + 4 xy
5400
5400 − 2 x 2
y=
4x
2700 − x 2
=
2x
V = x2 y
 2700 − x 2 
V ( x ) = x2  
 2x 
1
= 1350 x − x 3
2
Answer
1
( x ) 1350 x − x3
V=
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the maximum volume and the dimensions of the box that produce the maximum
volume.
Worked solution
3
V ′ ( x ) = 1350 − x 2
2
Let V ′ ( x ) =
0 to determine the stationary points.
3 2
1350 − x = 0
2
3
1350 = x 2
2
450 × 2 =x2
x = ± 900
x = ±30
x = 30 cm because x > 0
Use the second derivative analysis to determine the nature of the stationary point.
V ′′ ( x ) = −3x

V ′′ ( 30 ) =−90 < 0 , so the point is a local maximum.

Calculate the maximum volume when x = 30 .
1
V= ( x ) 1350 x − x3
2
1
V ( 30= ) 1350 × 30 − × 303
2
27 000
= 40500 −
2
= 40500 − 13500
= 27 000 cm 3
Calculate the value of y .

2700 − x 2
y=
2x
2700 − 302
=
2 × 30
2700 − 900
=
60
1800
=
60
= 30 cm

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
The maximum volume is Vmax = 27 000 cm 3 . This occurs when x = 30 cm and y = 30 cm .
Answer
Vmax = 27 000 cm 3 ; x = 30 cm and y = 30 cm

(c) Determine the domain of V ( x ) and sketch its graph.

Worked solution
The domain of V ( x ) is the set of positive x -values for which V ( x ) > 0 .

Calculate the x -intercepts:

1 3
1350 x − x = 0
2
 1 
x 1350 − x 2  =
0
 2 
x = 0 or
1 2
1350 − x = 0
2
1
1350 = x 2
2
x = 2700
2

x = ± 2700
x = ±30 3

Discard x = 0 and x = −30 3 because x > 0 .

Because P ( x ) > 0 , the domain is: 0 < x < 30 3 .

The y -intercept is ( 0, 0 ) .

Answer
domain: 0 < x < 30 3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

13 A company plans to melt a block of metal to form a solid cylinder of volume 10 m3 . The plan
involves making a cylinder whose external surface area is a minimum. The external surface area,
=
A m 2 , of a cylinder whose base radius is r metres and height h metres is given by A 2π rh + 2π r 2 .

(a) Determine an expression for A ( r ) .

Worked solution
The volume of a cylinder is V = π r 2 h .
Because the volume of this cylinder is to be 10 m3 :
10 = π r 2 h
10
h=
π r2
Now substitute this value into the given expression for A ( r ) .

( r ) 2π rh + 2π r 2
A=
 10 
= 2π r  2  + 2π r 2
πr 
20
= + 2π r 2
r
Answer
20
A ( r=
) + 2π r 2
r

(b) Determine the exact value of r for which A ' ( r ) = 0 .

Worked solution
20
A ( r=
)+ 2π r 2
r
= 20r −1 + 2π r 2
A '(r ) =
−20r −2 + 4π r
20
− 2 + 4π r
=
r
Let A ' ( r ) = 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
20
4π r =
r2
4π r 3 = 20
20
r3 =
4π
5
=
π
5
r= 3 m
π
Answer
5
r= 3 m
π

(c) Use second derivative analysis to demonstrate that the value of r found in part (b) gives the
minimum external surface area.
Worked solution
A '(r ) =
−20r −2 + 4π r

'' ( r ) 40r −3 + 4π
A=

( )
A ''=
3 5
40
+ 4π
( )
π 3
3 5
π

40
= 5
+ 4π
π

40π
= + 4π
5
= 8π + 4π
= 12π
d2A 5
Given that > 0 , r = 3 m is a local minimum.
dr 2
π
Answer
 5
A′′  3  = 12π > 0
 π 

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(d) Determine the minimum external surface area possible for this cylinder. Give your answer
correct to 1 decimal place.
Worked solution
20
A ( r=
) + 2π r 2
r
2
 5 20  5
A  3 = + 2π  3 
 π  3 5
π  π 
= 25.7 (1 d.p.)

The minimum external surface area is 25.7 m 2 .

Answer
25.7 m 2

(e) Use index laws to determine the relationship between the height and radius of the cylinder in
this case.
Worked solution
5
r= 3
π
≈ 1.167 54 m
10
h=
π r2
10
=
( )
2
π× 3 5
π
2
2×5×π 3
= 2
π ×5 3

1
2 × 53
= 1
π 3

5
= 2× 3
π
≈ 2.335 m
Both the numerical approximation and the exact values show that h = 2r .
Answer
h = 2r

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
5 ≤ x ≤ 15, use second derivative analysis to determine the maximum value of Z
TF 14 Given 2x + y = 40,
where=
Z 2 x + 12 y .
2

Worked solution
2x + y =40 , therefore =
y 40 − 2 x

=
Z 2 x 2 + 12 y
Z ( x) =2 x 2 + 12 ( 40 − 2 x )
= 2 x 2 − 24 x + 480
Stationary point:
Z ' ( x=
) 4 x − 24
Z '' ( x ) = 4

Let Z ' ( x ) = 0 :

4 x − 24 =
0
x=6

6 ) 2 ( 6 ) − 24 × 6 + 480
Z (=
2

=72 − 144 + 480

= 408
Because the second derivative is positive, the stationary point ( 6, 408 ) is a local minimum.
Endpoints:

Z (=
5 ) 2 ( 5 ) − 24 × 5 + 480
2

=50 − 120 + 480

= 410
So: ( 5, 410 )

Z (15 ) 2 (15) − 24 ×15 + 480

2
=
= 450 − 360 + 480
= 570
So: (15,570 )

The maximum the value of Z is 570 at the end value x = 15 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

Answer
570

TF 15 Determine the dimensions of the rectangle with the greatest area that can be inscribed in the semicircle
with curve section given by =
y 4 − x2 .

Worked solution
Draw a sketch.

Dimensions of the rectangle are 2x and 4 − x2 .

( x ) 2 x 4 − x2
area: A=
Let:
u = 2x
=
v 4 − x2

(4 − x )
1

= 2 2

du
Therefore: = 2.
dx
dv  1 
( )
− 12
=  ( −2 x ) 4 − x 2
dx  2 
−x
=
4 − x2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dA dv du
= u +v
dx dx dx
 −x 
= ( 2x) 
 4− x 
2
+ 4− x
2
( ) ( 2)
−2 x 2
= + 2 4 − x2
4− x 2

=
(
−2 x 2 + 2 4 − x 2 )
4− x 2

−2 x + 8 − 2 x 2
2
=
4 − x2
−4 x 2 + 8
=
4 − x2
dA
Let =0.
dx
−4 x 2 + 8 =0
4x2 = 8
x2 = 2
x= ± 2
Because the dimensions must be positive, use x = 2 .
dA
Where x = 1 , >0.
dx
dA
Where x = 1.5 , < 0.
dx
So this represents a maximum.
Substitute to calculate the length.

( 2)
2
=
length 4−

= 4−2
= 2
So the dimensions of the rectangle of maximum area are, horizontally: 2 2 units , vertically:
2 units .
Answer
horizontally: 2 2 units , vertically: 2 units

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 16 The selling price per item, Sdollars, is 50 – 0.03x, where x is the number of items produced in a week.
The weekly cost, C dollars, of producing and selling x items is 6x + 2000. Determine how many items
should be produced and sold each week to maximise profit.
Worked solution
=
income unit price × number of items

( 50 − 0.03x ) × ( x )
I ( x) =
= 50 x − 0.03 x 2
=
profit income − cost
P ( x ) = 50 x − 0.03 x 2 − ( 6 x + 2000 )
= 50 x − 0.03 x 2 − 6 x − 2000
=
−0.03 x 2 + 44 x − 2000
P '( x) =
−0.06 x + 44

P '' ( x ) = −0.06
So the stationary point represents a maximum.
dP
Let = 0.
dx
0.06 x = 44
3 x = 2200
x = 733 ( nearest whole )

Therefore, the maximum profit occurs when producing and selling 733 items per week.
Answer
733 items

17 A metal wire of length 80 cm is cut into two pieces. One piece is shaped into a rectangle, twice as
long as it is wide, and the other is shaped into a circle. Let x be the length used for the circle.

(a) Determine an expression for the area enclosed by the circular piece of metal wire, A ( x ) .

Worked solution
2π r = x
x
r=
2π
A = π r2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
2
 x 
A( x) = π  
 2π 
π x2
= 2
4π
x2
=
4π
Answer
x2
A( x) =
4π

(b) Determine the rule, B ( x ) , giving the area enclosed by the rectangular piece of wire.

Worked solution
80 − x is left for the rectangle.
80 − x
The shorter side will be: .
6
80 − x 80 − x
The longer side will be: ×2 = .
6 3
80 − x 80 − x
B ( x)
= ×
3 6
(80 − x )
2

=
18
Answer

(80 − x )
2

B ( x) =
18

(c) The total area enclosed by the two pieces of metal wire is T square metres. Determine an
expression for T ( x ) .

Worked solution
( x) A( x) + B ( x)
T=

x 2 ( 80 − x )
2

= +
4π 18
Answer

x 2 ( 80 − x )
2

T (=
x) +
4π 18

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 30
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(d) Determine the exact value of x that minimises the total area enclosed by the two pieces of metal
wire.
Worked solution

x 2 ( 80 − x )
2

T (=
x) +
4π 18
2x 1
T ' ( x )= − 2 × ( 80 − x )
4π 18
x ( 80 − x )
= −
2π 9
9 x − 2π ( 80 − x )
=
18π
( 9 + 2π ) x − 160π
=
18π
( 9 + 2π )
T '' ( x )
= >0
18π
The only stationary point is a minimum.
T ' ( x ) = 0 where:

( 9 + 2π ) x − 160π = 0
( 9 + 2π ) x =
160π
160π
x=
9 + 2π
160π
The exact value of x that minimises the total area is x = m.
9 + 2π
Answer
160π
x= m
9 + 2π

(e) Determine the area of each piece such that the area is a minimum.
Worked solution
circumference of the circle:
160π
x= m
9 + 2π

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
shorter side length of the rectangle:
80 − x 80 − 9160 π
+ 2π
=
6 6
80 ( 9 + 2π ) − 160π
=
6 ( 9 + 2π )
720 + 160π − 160π
=
6 ( 9 + 2π )
120
=
9 + 2π
longer side length of the rectangle:
120 24 0
×2 =
9 + 2π 9 + 2π
area of the circle:
x2
A=
4π
 160π 
2

 
9 + 2π 
=
4π
25600π 2
=
4π ( 9 + 2π )
2

6400π
= m2
( 9 + 2π )
2

area of the rectangle:

120 240
=B ×
9 + 2π 9 + 2π
28 800
= m2
( 9 + 2π )
2

Answer
6400π 28800
circle: m 2 ; rectangle: m2
( 9 + 2π ) ( 9 + 2π )
2 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(f) When the total enclosed area is a minimum, determine the exact ratio of the area enclosed by the
circle to the area enclosed by the rectangle.
Worked solution
6400π 28800
:
( 9 + 2π ) ( 9 + 2π )
2 2

= 6400π : 28800
= 2π : 9
Answer
200π : 9

(g) How should the metal wire be divided to maximise the total area enclosed?
Worked solution
The maximum area occurs at one of the endpoints.

x 2 ( 80 − x )
2

T (=
x) +
4π 18
802
T (0) =
18
3200
=
9
= 355.5
802
T ( 80 ) =
4π
1600
=
π
= 509.2
T ( 80 ) > T ( 0 )
This means all the wire is used for the circle.
This means the initial description ‘cut into two pieces’ does not apply.
Answer
All of the wire should be devoted to the circle. The description ‘cut into two pieces’ does not
apply.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
18 Two vertical posts, 25 m apart and with heights of 7 m and 13 m , are secured by a rope that connects
the top of one post to a point on the ground between the posts and then to the top of the other post. The
length of rope is L m and the distance from the 7 m high post to the point on the ground between the
two posts is x m .

(a) Write an expression for L ( x ) .

Worked solution
Using Pythagoras’ theorem:

=
BP 72 + x2
= 49 + x 2

( 25 − x )
2
PD= + 132

= 625 − 50 x + x 2 + 169
= x 2 − 50 x + 794

L ( x) = x 2 + 49 + x 2 − 50 x + 794

Answer

L ( x) = x 2 + 49 + x 2 − 50 x + 794

(b) Determine the location of the point on the ground so that the amount of rope used is a minimum.
Worked solution

L ( x) = x 2 + 49 + x 2 − 50 x + 794

( ) ( )
1 1

= x 2 + 49 + x 2 − 50 x + 794
2 2

1 1
( ) ( )
− 12 − 12
L′ ( x )   ( 2 x ) x 2 + 49 +   ( 2 x − 50 ) x 2 − 50 x + 794
=
2 2
x x − 25
= +
x 2 + 49 x 2 − 50 x + 794
Now use technology to solve L′ ( x ) = 0 .

This gives x = 8.75 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Given that L′ ( 8 ) < 0 and L′ ( 9 ) > 0 , this gives a minimum value for L .

The point that gives the minimum length of rope is 8.75 m from the 7 m pole.
Answer
8.75 m from the 7 m pole

(c) Determine, correct to 1 decimal place, the minimum length of rope used.
Worked solution
Using technology, L ( 8.75 ) = 32.0 (1 d.p.) .

The minimum length of rope required is 32.0 m .

Answer
32.0 m

19 A company produces x litres of juice per minute. To produce the juice, it costs the company $2 per
minute and an extra $1 per litre. The revenue per minute is 6 times the square root of the number of
litres produced in that time.

(a) Write an expression for P ( x ) , the profit of the company per minute.

Worked solution
=
profit revenue − cost
Write an equation for the cost function and an equation for the revenue function.
Cost: There is a fixed cost of $2 per minute plus $1 per litre produced, so C ( x )= x + 2 .
Revenue: The revenue earned is 6 times the square root of the number of litres produced, so
R ( x) = 6 x .
Profit:
P ( x )= 6 x − ( x + 2 )
= 6 x −x−2
The profit per minute is represented by P ( x=
) 6 x − x−2.
Answer
P ( x=
) 6 x −x−2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the number of litres the company has to produce per hour for maximum profit and
calculate the maximum profit.
Worked solution
Consider the relationship between the profit function and its derivative for maximum profit.
Determine an expression for the derivative function.
P ( x=
) 6 x −x−2
3
P′ (=
x) −1
x
Let P′ ( x ) = 0 to determine the stationary points.

3
− 1 =0
x
3
=1
x
1 1
=
x 3
x =3
x=9
Use the second derivative analysis to determine the nature of the stationary point.
3
P′′ ( x ) = −
2 ( x)2
3

3
P′′ ( 9 ) = −
2 (9) 2
3

1
= −
18
<0
So the point is a local maximum.
The number of litres produced each hour will be: 9 litres/minutes × 60 minutes =
540 litres
The maximum profit per minute is:
P ( 9=
) 6 9 −9−2
= $7
The maximum profit over one hour is: 7 × 60 =
$420 .
Answer
$420 per hour; 540 L

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(c) Sketch the graph of P ( x ) and determine the domain of the function if the company is to make a
profit.
Worked solution
) 6 x −x−2
P ( x=

The domain of P ( x ) is the set of positive x -values for which P ( x ) > 0 .

The x -intercepts occur where P ( x ) = 0 .

6 x −x−2=0
From the graph: ( 0.125, 0 ) and ( 31.875, 0 ) .

So P ( x ) > 0 for 0.125 < x < 31.875 .

The y -intercept is ( 0, −2 ) .

Answer
domain: 0.125 < x < 31.875

20 The pollution level, L units , at a point on a straight road between two factories 5 kilometres apart is
m n
modelled by the function L= ( x) + , 0 ≤ x ≤ 10 , where x km is the distance of the point
x + 1 11 − x
from one of the factories. The pronumerals m and n are related to the output of pollutants of the two
factories. Let m = 4 and n = 16 .

(a) Use calculus to determine the value of x for which the pollution level is a minimum.
Worked solution
m n
( x)
L= + , where m = 4 and n = 16 .
x + 1 11 − x
4 16
( x)
L= +
x + 1 11 − x
= 4 ( x + 1) + 16 (11 − x )
−1 −1

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

L′ ( x ) = ( 4 )( −1)(1)( x + 1) + (16 )( −1)( −1)(11 − x )

−2 −2

−4 16
= +
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

−4 (11 − x ) + 16 ( x + 1)
2 2

=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

−4 (121 − 22 x + x 2 ) + 16 ( x 2 + 2 x + 1)
=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

−484 + 88 x − 4 x 2 + 16 x 2 + 32 x + 16
=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

12 x 2 + 120 x − 468
=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

12 ( x 2 + 10 x − 39 )
=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

12 ( x + 13)( x − 3)
=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

L′ ( x ) = 0 where 12 ( x + 13)( x − 3) =
0.

L′ ( x ) = 0 where x = −13 or x = 3 .

Reject the negative value, so x = 3 .

Where x = 2 , L′ ( x ) < 0 .

Where x = 4 , L′ ( x ) > 0 .
So this represents a minimum value.
The minimum pollution occurs at x = 3 km from one of the factories.
Answer
x = 3 km

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the minimum pollution level at this point between the two factories.
Worked solution
4 16
( x)
L= +
x + 1 11 − x
4 16
( 3)
L= +
3 + 1 11 − 3
4 16
= +
4 8
= 1+ 2
=3
The minimum pollution level at this point between the two factories is 3 units.
Answer
3 units

(c) Determine the exact set of values of x for which L ≤ 4 .

Worked solution
To start, determine where L ( x ) = 4 .

4 16
+ = 4
x + 1 11 − x
4 (11 − x ) + 16 ( x + 1) 4 ( ( x + 1)(11 − x ) )
=
( x + 1)(11 − x ) ( x + 1)(11 − x )
4 (11 − x ) + 16 ( x + 1)= 4 ( x + 1)(11 − x )
= 4 (11x − x 2 + 11 − x )
44 − 4 x + 16 x + 16
12 x + 60 = 4 ( − x 2 + 10 x + 11)
=
−4 x 2 + 40 x + 44
4 x 2 − 28 x + 16 =
0
x2 − 7 x + 4 =0
Use the quadratic formula: a = 1 , b = −7 , c = 4

−b ± b 2 − 4ac
x=
2a
7 ± 49 − 4 ×1× 4
=
2
7 ± 49 − 16
=
2
7 ± 33
=
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Now use technology to check the shape of L ( x ) .

 7 − 33 7 + 33 
So L ( x ) ≤ 4 in the interval  , .
 2 2 
Answer
 7 − 33 7 + 33 
x∈ , 
 2 2 

(d) If m = n , determine the value of m for which the minimum value of L is 3 .

Worked solution
m n
( x)
L= +
x + 1 11 − x
If m = n :
m m
( x)
L= +
x + 1 11 − x
= m ( x + 1) + m (11 − x )
−1 −1

L′ ( x )= ( m )( −1)(1)( x + 1) + ( m )( −1)( −1)(11 − x )

−2 −2

−m m
= +
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

−m (11 − x ) + m ( x + 1)
2 2

=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

24mx − 120m
=
( x + 1) (11 − x )
2 2

The minimum value occurs where L′ ( x ) = 0 .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
24mx − 120m =
0
24m ( x − 5 ) =
0
x=5
The pollution level is:
m m
)
L ( 5= +
6 6
2m
=
6
m
= units
3
Now set L ( 5 ) = 3 .

m
3=
3
m=9
Answer
m=9

21 A company manufactures conical party hats. Each hat is made by cutting, from a piece of paper,
a small sector of a circle of radius 12 cm and then folding together the edge radii of the large
sector to create the cone. If the large sector is a fraction x of the original circular paper, where
by V ( x ) 576π x 2 1 − x 2 .
0.5 < x < 1, the volume V ( x ) cm3 of the cone is given=

(a) Determine an expression for V ′ ( x ) .

Worked solution

V ( x ) 576π x 2 1 − x 2
=

Let u = 576π x 2 and =

v 1 − x2 .
1
−2 x × (1 − x 2 ) 2 =
du dv 1 − x
Therefore, = 1152π x and = − .
dx dx 2 1 − x2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dv du
V ′( x) = u
+v
dx dx
 x 
= 576π x 2 ×  −  + 1 − x × 1152π x
2

 1− x 
2

576π x3
=− + 1152π x 1 − x2
1 − x2
Simplifying further:

=V ′( x)
(
1152π x 1 − x 2 ) − 576π x 3

1 − x2 1 − x2

=
((
576π x 2 1 − x 2 − x 2 ) )
1 − x2

=
(
576π x 2 − 2 x 2 − x 2 )
1 − x2

=
(
576π x 2 − 3 x 2 )
1 − x2
Answer

V ′( x) =
(
576π x 2 − 3 x 2 )
1− x 2

(b) Determine the exact value of x for which the volume of the cone is a maximum.
Worked solution
Let V ′ ( x ) = 0 .

(
576π x 2 − 3 x 2 =
0 )
x = 0 or
2 − 3x 2 =
0
2
x= ±
3
6
= ±
3
= ±0.82 ( 2 d.p.)

6
0.5 < x < 1 , so the only solution is x = .
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

6
Checking whether there is a maximum or minimum at x = :
3
V ′ ( 0.8 ) ≈ 193 > 0

V ′ ( 0.9 ) ≈ −1607 < 0

6
Hence x = cm represents a maximum volume.
3
Answer
6
x= cm
3

(c) Plot the graph of V ( x ) to determine the maximum volume correct to 1 decimal place.

Worked solution

of V ( x ) 576π x 2 1 − x 2 , 0.5 < x < 1 .

Use technology to plot the graph=

The maximum point is ( 0.816,696.5) .

The maximum volume of the cone is 696.5 cm3 .

Answer
696.5 cm3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(d) The company realises that they can make two cones from the circular piece of paper by using
both sectors. Given that the first sector is a fraction x of the original circular paper, where
0.5 < x < 1, the second sector is a fraction, 1 – x, of the paper. The total volume, T ( x ) cm3 , of

=
the two cones formed is given by: (
T ( x ) 576π x 2 1 − x 2 + (1 − x )
2
)
2 x − x 2 . Sketch the
graph of y = T(x) for 0 < x < 1. Use your graph to determine the maximum volume, correct to
1 decimal place. Interpret the value of x that gives the maximum volume.
Worked solution
From the graph, you can read that the maximum volume is 789.1 cm3 when x = 0.676 , because
0.5 < x < 1 .
The major sector should use about 68% of the circle, leaving 32% for the minor sector.
Answer
789.1 cm3 The major sector should use about 68% of the circle, leaving 32% for the minor
sector.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

Worked solutions
Chapter 6 Further applications of
differentiation
Chapter review 6
TF Technology free question

Consider the function f ( x ) =

− x ( x − 6) .
2
TF 1

(a) Use calculus to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.
Worked solution
Let u ( x ) = − x and v ( x=
) ( x − 6)
2
.

Therefore, u ′ ( x ) = −1 and v′ (=
x ) 2 ( x − 6) .

f ′ ( x ) u ( x ) v′ ( x ) + v ( x ) u ′ ( x )
=
( x )( 2 )( x − 6 ) + ( x − 6 ) ( −1)
=−
2

−2 x ( x − 6 ) − 1( x − 6 )
2
=
=− ( x − 6 )( 2 x + x − 6 )
=− ( x − 6 )( 3 x − 6 )
−3 ( x − 6 )( x − 2 )
=

f ′ ( x ) = 0 where x = 6 or x = 2

f ( 2) =
−2 ( 2 − 6 )
2

−2 ( −4 )
2
=
=−2 ×16
= −32
So: ( 2, −32 )

f (6) =
−6 ( 6 − 6 )
2

=0
So: ( 6, 0 )

f ( x ) is a negative cubic, so the first point will be a local minimum.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
local maximum: ( 6, 0 ) : local minimum: ( 2, −32 )

(b) Sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , showing all key features.

Worked solution
f ( x) =
− x ( x − 6)
2

y -intercept, x = 0 :

f ( 0 ) = 0 , therefore the coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 0 ) .

x -intercepts, f ( x ) = 0 :

− x ( x − 6)
2
0=

x = 0 or x = 6
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( 0,0 ) and ( 6,0 ) .

Answer

For the function f ( x ) =+

( x 3) ( x − 2 ) , what is the subset of  for which the gradient of f is
2
TF 2
negative?
Worked solution

( x + 3) and v= x − 2 .
2
Let u=

du dv
Therefore, = 2 ( x + 3) and = 1.
dx dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

f ′ ( x ) = ( x + 3) (1) + ( x − 2 ) 2 ( x + 3)
2

=( x + 3) + 2 ( x + 3)( x − 2 )
2

= ( x + 3) ( x + 3 + 2 ( x − 2 ) )
= ( x + 3)( x + 3 + 2 x − 4 )
=+( x 3)( 3x − 1)
Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 .

( x + 3)( 3x − 1) =
0

1
x = −3 or x =
3
f ′ ( x ) is a positive quadratic, so has a minimum turning point.

 1
So f ′ ( x ) is negative for x ∈  −3,  .
 3
Answer
 1
x ∈  −3, 
 3

TF 3 When does the cubic polynomial g( x ) = ax3 + bx 2 + cx + d , where a , b , c and d are constants, have
two stationary points?

A 3ac < b 2 B 3ac > b 2 C 3ac = b 2 D 4ac > b 2

Worked solution
g( x ) = ax3 + bx 2 + cx + d

g ′ ( x ) = 3ax 2 + 2bx + c
For two stationary points, the discriminant of the quadratic must be greater than zero.
∆= b 2 − 4ac
a → 3a, b → 2b, c → c
( 2b )
2
=∆ − 4 × 3a × c
= 4b 2 − 12ac

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
∆>0
4b − 12ac > 0
2

4b 2 > 12ac
b 2 > 3ac
3ac < b 2

The cubic polynomial g ( x ) = ax 3 + bx 2 + cx + d has two stationary points when 3ac < b 2 .

The correct option is A.

Answer
A

1 3
TF 4 If f ( x ) =
x − 4 x 2 + 12 x − 5 , 0 ≤ x ≤ 9 , determine the global maximum value of f and the value of
3
x when this occurs.
Worked solution
x3
f ( x) = − 4 x 2 + 12 x − 5
3
3x 2
f ′( x) = − 8 x + 12
3
= x 2 − 8 x + 12
=( x − 2 )( x − 6 )
f ′( x) = 0 :
x = 2 or x = 6
f ( x ) is a positive cubic, so the first stationary point is a local maximum and the second one is a
local minimum.
Compare f ( 2 ) and f ( 9 ) , as one of these will be the global maximum over this domain.

 23 
f ( 2 ) =  − 4 ( 2 ) + 12 ( 2 ) − 5
2

 3
8
= − 4 × 4 + 24 − 5
3
8
= − 16 + 19
3
2
=5
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

93
f ( 9 ) = − 4 ( 9 ) + 12 ( 9 ) − 5
2

3
= 243 − 324 + 108 − 5
= 22
f (9) > f ( 2)
So the global maximum is 22 , where x = 9 .
Answer
global maximum: 22, where x = 9

TF 5 Determine expressions for the acceleration, a(t), of each of the following particles whose positions in
x metres from a fixed origin at time t seconds, t ≥ 0, are given by the following equations.

(a) x=−5t 2 + 5t − 2
Worked solution
x=−5t 2 + 5t − 2
dx
=
−10t + 5
dt
d 2x
= −10
dt 2
∴ a ( t ) = −10

Answer
a ( t ) = −10

(b) =
x 2t − 3
Worked solution
=
x 2t − 3
( 2t − 3)
1
= 2

dx  1 
=   ( 2 )( 2t − 3) 2
−1

dt  2 
( 2t − 3)
− 12
=

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
d 2x  1
=( 2 )  −  ( 2t − 3) 2
−3

 2
2
dt
1
= −
( 2t − 3) 2
3

1
= −
( 2t − 3) 2t − 3

1
∴ a (t ) = −
( 2t − 3) 2t − 3
Answer
1
a (t ) = −
( 2t − 3) 2t − 3

(2 − t )
3
(c) =
x

Worked solution

(2 − t )
3
=
x

dx
= ( 3)( −1)( 2 − t )
2

dt
−3 ( 2 − t )
2
=

d 2x
( 3)( −1)( 2 )( 2 − t )
=−
dt 2
= 6(2 − t )
−6 ( t − 2 )
=

∴ a (t ) =
−6 ( t − 2 )

Answer
a (t ) =
−6 ( t − 2 )

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 6 A particle moves in a straight line so that its position, x metres, at time t seconds is given by
x ( t ) = t 2 + 4t + 4 , t ≥ 0. What is the acceleration in m/s 2 of the particle at time t = 4?

A 0 B 2 C 4 D 8

Worked solution
x ( t ) = t 2 + 4t + 4

x′ ( t=
) 2t + 4
x′′ ( t ) = 2

Therefore, the acceleration at any time is 2 m/s 2 .

The correct option is B.
Answer
B

TF 7 The position x metres from a fixed origin O at time t seconds of a particle travelling in a straight line is
given by x ( t ) = t 3 − 5t 2 + 3t − 5 for 0 ≤ t ≤ 7.

(a) Determine the initial position of the particle.

Worked solution
x ( t ) = t 3 − 5t 2 + 3t − 5

x ( 0 ) = −5

The initial position of the particle is 5 metres to the left of O .

Answer
5 metres to the left of O

(b) Determine the time when the particle’s acceleration is zero.

Worked solution
x ( t ) = t 3 − 5t 2 + 3t − 5

x ' ( t ) = 3t 2 − 10t + 3

x '' ( t=
) 6t − 10
Let x '' ( t ) = 0 :

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
6t − 10 = 0
6t = 10
5
t=
3
5
The particle’s acceleration is zero after seconds .
3
Answer
5
after seconds
3

(c) Determine the particle’s minimum velocity.

Worked solution
velocity: x ' ( t ) = 3t 2 − 10t + 3
The velocity function is a positive quadratic, so the stationary point will be a minimum.
5
This is when the acceleration is zero, where t = .
3
2
5 5 5
x '   = 3   − 10   + 3
3 3 3
25 50
= − +3
3 3
−25 + 9
=
3
16
= −
3
16
The particle’s minimum velocity is − m/s .
3
Answer
16
− m/s
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(d) Determine the exact time when the numerical component of the particle’s velocity and the
numerical component of the acceleration are equal. Interpret your results.
Worked solution
velocity: x ' ( t ) = 3t 2 − 10t + 3 ; acceleration: x '' ( t=
) 6t − 10
x '(t ) = x ''(t )
3t 2 − 10t + 3 = 6t − 10
3t 2 − 16t + 13 =
0
3t 2 − 3t − 13t + 13 =
0
3t ( t − 1) − 13 ( t − 1) =
0
( 3t − 13)( t − 1) =
0
13
t= or t = 1
3
The numerical component of the velocity and numerical component of the acceleration are equal
1
after 1 second and after 4 seconds .
3
Check separately to see if this is correct.
velocity:

x ' (1) = 3 (1) − 10 (1) + 3

2

= −4
2
 13   13   13 
x '   = 3   − 10   + 3
3 3 3
169 130
= − +3
3 3
39 + 9
=
3
48
=
3
= 16
acceleration:
(1) 6 (1) − 10
x ''=
= −4
 13   13 
x ''=
  6   − 10
 3  3
= 26 − 10
= 16

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
After 1 second , the velocity is −4 m/s and the acceleration is −4 m/s 2 .
1
After 4 seconds , the velocity is 16 m/s and the acceleration is 16 m/s 2 .
3
Answer
1
After 1 second, the velocity is −4 m/s and the acceleration is −4 m/s 2 . After 4 seconds , the
3
2
velocity is 16 m/s and the acceleration is 16 m/s .

(e) Determine the exact times when the particle changes direction.
Worked solution
The particle can change direction when the velocity is zero.
velocity: x ' ( t ) = 3t 2 − 10t + 3

Solve x ' ( t ) = 0 .

3t 2 − 10t + 3 =0
( t − 3)( 3t − 1) =
0

1
t = 3 or t =
3
Because the velocity function is a quadratic with two roots, the velocity changes sign at each
t -intercept; hence the particle changes direction at these times.
1
The particle changes direction after second and after 3 seconds .
3
Answer
1
after second and after 3 seconds
3

TF 8 A particle moves in a straight line so that its position x metres at time t seconds from a fixed origin is
given by x =3 + 5t − t 3 , t ≥ 0. After 3 seconds, which of the following describes the particle?

A travelling in the positive direction, slowing down

B travelling in the negative direction, slowing down

C travelling in the positive direction, speeding up

D travelling in the negative direction, speeding up

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Worked solution
x =3 + 5t − t 3
dx
v=
dt
= 5 − 3t 2
d 2x
a=
dt 2
= −6t
Therefore:

x ( 3) = 3 + 5 ( 3) − ( 3)
3

=3 + 15 − 27
= −9

v ( 3)= 5 − 3 ( 3)
2

= 5 − 27
= −22
a ( 3) = −6 ( 3)
= −18
Negative position: The particle is to the left of the origin.
Negative velocity: The particle is travelling to the left, so further away from the origin.
Negative acceleration: The particle has a negative velocity, so negative acceleration will
increase the size, hence the particle is speeding up.
The correct option is D.
Answer
D

TF 9 If g( x ) =
−3x 4 + x 2 + 5 , calculate g ′′( −1) .

Worked solution
g( x ) =
−3 x 4 + x 2 + 5

g′( x) =
−12 x 3 + 2 x

g ′′ ( x ) =
−36 x 2 + 2

g ′′ ( −1) =−36 ( −1) + 2

2

= −36 + 2
= −34

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer
g ′′ ( −1) =−34

TF 10 Determine the equation of the tangent to the curve y =

−2 x3 + 6 x 2 + 3 x − 7 at the point where
d2y
= 0.
dx 2
Worked solution
y=
−2 x3 + 6 x 2 + 3 x − 7
dy
=
−6 x 2 + 12 x + 3
dx
d2y
=
−12 x + 12
dx 2
d2y
Where = 0:
dx 2
−12 x + 12 = 0
12 x = 12
x =1
Where x = 1 :

−2 (1) + 6 (1) + 3 (1) − 7

3 2
y=
=−2 + 6 + 3 − 7
=0
So (1,0 ) is the point required.

dy
−6 (1) + 12 (1) + 3
2
=
dx
=−6 + 12 + 3
=9
So the gradient of the tangent is 9 .
Determine the equation of the tangent using y − y1= m ( x − x1 ) :

y − 0= 9 ( x − 1)
=
y 9x − 9
Answer
=
y 9x − 9

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 11 Determine the set of x-values for which the graph with equation y = x 3 − 8 x 2 + 4 x − 5 is concave
upwards.
Worked solution
y = x3 − 8 x 2 + 4 x − 5
dy
= 3 x 2 − 16 x + 4
dx
d2y
= 6 x − 16
dx 2
d2y
Where > 0:
dx 2
6 x − 16 > 0
6 x > 16
16
x>
6
8
x>
3
8 
So the graph is concave up for x ∈  , ∞  .
3 
Answer
8 
x ∈ ,∞
3 

−3
TF 12 Determine the values of x for which the graph of f ( x ) = is concave downwards.
x−2
Worked solution
−3
f ( x) =
x−2
−3 ( x − 2 )
−1
=

f ′ ( x ) =−
( 1)( −3)( x − 2 )
−2

= 3( x − 2)
−2

f ′′ ( x ) =
−6 ( x − 2 )
−3

6
= −
( x − 2)
3

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Concave down where f ′′ ( x ) < 0 :

6
− <0
( x − 2)
3

For f ′′ ( x ) to be less than zero, the denominator has to be greater than zero.

−3
So the graph of f ( x ) = is concave downwards for x > 2 .
x−2
Answer
x>2

g ′′( x ) =x ( x + 2 )( x − 3) , then the graph of g has inflection points when x is equal to which of the
2
TF 13 If
following?

A −2 only B −2 and 0 only

C −2 and 3 only D −2 , 0 and 3

Worked solution
g ′′( x ) =x ( x + 2 )( x − 3)
2

g ′′ ( x ) = 0 when: x = 0 , x = −2 or x = 3 .

However, ( x − 3) is a repeated factor, so g ′′ ( x ) does not change signs. Therefore, g will not
have a point of inflection at x = 3 .
The graph of g has inflection points −2 and 0 only.
The correct option is B.
Answer
B

TF 14 Determine the value of b and c if the graph of y = x3 + bx 2 + cx − 4 has a point of inflection at

(1, −5) .
Worked solution
y = x3 + bx 2 + cx − 4
Given (1, −5 ) :

−5 = 13 + b (1) + c (1) − 4
2

−5 = 1 + b + c − 4
b + c =−2 [1]

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dy
= 3 x 2 + 2bx + c
dx
d2y
= 6 x + 2b
dx 2
d2y
For a point of inflection, = 0:
dx 2
6 x + 2b =
0
For x = 1 :
6 (1) + 2b =
0
b = −3
Substitute this value into [1] :

b + c =−2
−3 + c =−2
c =1
The graph of y = x3 + bx 2 + cx − 4 has a point of inflection at (1, −5 ) for b = −3 and c = 1 .

Answer
b = −3 , c = 1

TF 15 Determine the expression for the second derivative of each of the following functions.

(a) f ( x ) =− x 4 + 3 x 2 − x + 7

Worked solution
f ( x ) =− x 4 + 3 x 2 − x + 7

f ′( x) =
−4 x3 + 6 x − 1

f ′′ ( x ) =
−12 x 2 + 6

Answer
f ′′ ( x ) =
−12 x 2 + 6

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
x +1
(b) y=
x −1
Worked solution
x +1
y=
x −1

=
( x − 1) + 2
x −1
x −1 2
= +
x −1 x −1
2
= 1+
x −1
= 2 ( x − 1) + 1
−1

dy
−2 ( x − 1)
−2
=
dx
d2y
4 ( x − 1)
−3
= 2
dx
4
=
( x − 1)
3

Answer
d2y 4
=
( x − 1)
2 3
dx

TF 16 A rectangular field is to be fenced so that the resulting area is k square units. Use second derivative
analysis to determine the dimensions of the field for which the perimeter is a minimum.
Worked solution
Let the sides of the rectangle be x units and y units .
area of a rectangle: A = lw
Therefore:
xy = k
k
y=
x
perimeter of a rectangle: P= 2l + 2 w

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Therefore:
=
P 2x + 2 y
2k
P ( x=) 2x +
x
= 2 x + 2kx −1
dP
= 2 − 2kx −2
dx
2k
= 2− 2
x
d 2P
= 4kx −3
dx 2
4k
= 3
x
The second derivative is positive when x is positive, so any stationary point in the valid domain
will represent a minimum.
dP
Let = 0:
dx
2k
2− = 0
x2
2k
=2
x2
2k = 2 x 2
k = x2
x= ± k

Reject the negative solution, because x is a length, so x = k is the only solution.

k
y=
x
k
=
k
= k
This means that the shape is a square with a side length of k units for the minimum perimeter.
Answer
square with side length k units

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 17 Use second derivative analysis to determine the dimensions of the cylindrical can of greatest volume
that can be made from 600π cm of sheet metal.
2

Worked solution
SA = 600π cm 2 , where
SA 2π r 2 + 2π rh
=
= 2π r ( r + h )

600π 2π r ( r + h )
=
600π
= r+h
2π r
600π
= h −r
2π r
300
= −r
r
300 − r 2
=
r
Calculate the volume:
V = π r 2h
 300 − r 2 
V (r ) = π r2  
 r 
= 300π r − π r 3

dV
= 300π − 3π r 2
dr
d 2V
= −6π r
dr 2
The second derivative is negative when r is positive, so any stationary point in the valid domain
will represent a maximum.
dV
Let =0:
dr
300π − 3π r 2 = 0
3π r 2 = 300π
r 2 = 100
r = ±10
Given that r represents the length of the radius, r = 10 is the only solution.

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
300 − r 2
h=
r
300 − 102
=
10
200
=
10
= 20
The volume is a maximum when the radius is 10 cm and the height is 20 cm .
Answer
radius: 10 cm ; height: 20 cm

TF 18 Given =
y 2 x − 8 , determine the minimum value of the product xy .

Worked solution
=
y 2x − 8
So the product is:
xy x ( 2 x − 8 )
=
= 2 x2 − 8x
Let P (=
x ) 2 x2 − 8x :

P ' ( x=
) 4x − 8
P '' ( x ) = 4
So any stationary point represents a minimum.
Let P ' ( x ) = 0 :

4x − 8 =0
x=2
=
y 2x − 8
= 2 ( 2) − 8
= −4
xy= 2 ( −4 )
= −8
The minimum value of the product xy is −8 .
Answer
−8

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
TF 19 Consider the function f ( x ) = x3 + 3 x 2 + 3 x + 28 .

(a) Use second derivative analysis to determine the coordinates and nature of any stationary points.
Worked solution
f ( x ) = x3 + 3 x 2 + 3 x + 28

f ′ ( x ) = 3x 2 + 6 x + 3

f '' ( x=
) 6x + 6
Let f ′ ( x ) = 0 :

3x 2 + 6 x + 3 =0
(
3 x2 + 2x + 1 =
0 )
3 ( x + 1) =
2
0
x = −1
f '' ( −1) = 6 ( −1) + 6
=0
The second derivative does not clarify the nature of the stationary point.
The presence of the ( x + 1) factor in the expression for f ′ ( x ) indicates the presence of a
2

stationary point of inflection.

f ( −1) =−
( 1) + 3 ( −1) + 3 ( −1) + 28
3 2

=−1 + 3 − 3 + 28
= 27
The stationary point is ( −1, 27 ) .

The graph of f ′ (=
x ) 3 ( x + 1) is a parabola that touches the x -axis at x = −1 .
2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
From the graph, y = f ′ ( x ) :

x < −1 f ′( x) > 0

x = −1 f ′( x) = 0

x > −1 f ′( x) > 0

f ′ ( x ) = 3 ( x + 1) ≥ 0 for x ∈ 
2

The gradient does not change sign.

So ( −1, 27 ) is a stationary point of inflection.

Answer
( −1, 27 ) : stationary point of inflection
(b) Sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) , showing all key features.

Worked solution
The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 28 ) .

Using trial and error, let f ( x ) = 0 and determine the solution:

( 4 ) + 3 ( −4 ) + 3 ( −4 ) + 28
f ( −4 ) =−
3 2

=−64 + 48 − 12 + 28
=0
f ( −4 ) =
0 and so ( x + 4 ) is a factor.

(
x 3 + 3 x 2 + 3 x + 28 =( x + 4 ) x 2 + kx + 7 )
Equating coefficients:
4 x 2 + kx 2 =
3x 2
( 4 + k ) x2 =
3x 2
4+k = 3
k = −1
Therefore: x3 + 3 x 2 =
+ 3 x + 28 ( x + 4) ( x2 − x + 7 )
Because there are no turning points, there will be just one x -intercept.
To confirm, calculate the discriminant ∆ for x 2 − x + 7 .

∆ = ( −1) − 4 (1)( 7 )
2

= −27

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
The only x -intercept is ( −4, 0 ) .

Answer

d2y
TF 20 Determine an expression for for each of the following functions.
dx 2

2x
(a) y=
x −3
Worked solution
2x
y=
x −3
Let u = 2 x and v= x − 3 .
du dv
Therefore, = 2 and = 1.
dx dx
dy v × du dx − u × dx
dv
=
dx v2

=
( x − 3)( 2 ) − ( 2 x )(1)
( x − 3)
2

2x − 6 − 2x
=
( x − 3)
2

−6
=
( x − 3)
2

−6 ( x − 3)
−2
=

d2y
−6 ( −2 )( x − 3)
−3
2
=
dx
12
=
( x − 3)
3

Answer
d2y 12
=
( x − 3)
2 3
dx

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

(b) =
y 5 − 2x

Worked solution
=
y 5 − 2x
(5 − 2x )
1
= 2

dy  1 
=   ( −2 )( 5 − 2 x ) 2
−1

dx  2 
− (5 − 2x )
− 12
=

d2y  1
=−  −  ( −2 )( 5 − 2 x ) 2
−3

 2
2
dx
1
= −
(5 − 2x ) 2
3

1
= −
(5 − 2x ) 5 − 2x
1
=
( 2 x − 5) 5 − 2x
Answer
d2y 1
=
dx 2
( 2 x − 5) 5 − 2 x

TF 21 A particle moves in a straight line so that its position x metres at time t seconds is given by
=
x t t + 1 , t ≥ 0.

(a) Determine the particle’s initial velocity.

Worked solution
=
x t t +1
= t ( t + 1) 2
1

dx  1 
=t   ( t + 1) 2 + 1( t + 1) 2
−1 1

dt 2
1
=t ( t + 1) 2 + ( t + 1) 2
−1 1

2
t
= + t +1
2 t +1
When t = 0 :

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
dx 0
= + 0 +1
dt 2 0 + 1
=1
The particle’s initial velocity is 1 m/s .
Answer
1 m/s

(b) Determine the particle’s initial acceleration.

Worked solution
dx 1
=t ( t + 1) 2 + ( t + 1) 2
−1 1

dt 2
d 2x  1  1  3
1 − 
1
1 1

 t   −  ( t + 1) 2 + ( t + 1) 2  + ( t + 1) 2
− −
= 
 2  2 
2
dt 2  2
t 1
=
− +
4 ( t + 1) t + 1 t +1

When t = 0 :
d 2x 0 1
=
− +
4 ( 0 + 1) 0 + 1 0 +1
2
dt
=1
2
The particle’s initial acceleration is 1 m/s .
Answer
1 m/s 2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
22 ) x4 − x2 .
Consider the function g( x=

(a) Use second derivative analysis to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.
Worked solution
g ( x=
) x4 − x2
g ′ (=
x ) 4 x3 − 2 x
= 2x 2x2 −1 ( )
Let g ′ ( x ) = 0 :

x = 0 or
1
x= ±
2
2
= ±
2
g ( 0 ) = 0 , so ( 0,0 ) is a stationary point.
4 2
 2  2  2
g  −  =  −  −  − 
 2   2   2 
4 2
= −
16 4
1
= −
4
 2 1
So  − , −  is a stationary point.
 2 4
4 2
 2  2  2
g=
    −  
 2   2   2 
4 2
= −
16 4
1
= −
4
 2 1
So  , −  is a stationary point.
 2 4

Use g ′′ ( x ) to determine the nature of the stationary points.

g ′ (=
x ) 4 x3 − 2 x

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

( x ) 12 x 2 − 2
g ′′=
2
 2  2
g ′′  −  =12  −  − 2
 2   2 
12 × 2
= −2
4
= 6−2
=4
 2 1 
 − , −  is a minimum point.
 2 40 

g ′′ ( 0 ) 12 ( 0 ) − 2
2
=
= −2
( 0, 0 ) is a maximum point.

 2
g ′′   = 4
 2 
 2 1
 , −  is a minimum point.
 2 4

Answer
 2 1  2 1
local minima:  − , −  and  , −  : local maximum: ( 0, 0 )
 2 4   2 4

(b) Determine the exact coordinates of any points of inflection.

Worked solution
g ′ (=
x ) 4 x3 − 2 x

( x ) 12 x 2 − 2
g ′′=

Let g ′′ ( x ) = 0 :

12 x 2 = 2
1
x2 =
6
1
x= ±
6
6
= ±
6

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
4 2
− 6 − 6 − 6
g=
    −  
 6   6   6 
36 6
= −
1296 36
1 1
= −
36 6
5
= −
36
4 2
 6  6  6
g=
   −  
 6   6   6 
36 6
= −
1296 36
1 1
= −
36 6
5
= −
36
 6 5   6 5 
The points of inflection are  − , −  and  , −  .
 6 36   6 36 

Answer
 6 5   6 5 
 − , −  and  , − 
 6 36   6 36 

(c) Determine the coordinates of any axis intercepts and then plot the graph of g , marking all key
features.
Worked solution
y -intercept:

g ( 0 ) = 0 , so the y-intercept is ( 0,0 ) .

x -intercepts:
x4 − x2 = 0
(
x2 x2 −1 =
0 )
x 2 ( x + 1)( x − 1) =
0
x = 0 or x = −1 or x = 1
So the x-intercepts are ( 0,0 ) , ( −1,0 ) , (1,0 ) .

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer

23 Consider the function f ( x ) = ax3 + bx 2 + cx + d .

1
(a) Determine the values of a , b , c and d if f ( 0 ) = − , f ' ( 0 ) = 5 , f ' ( 4 ) = −63 and f (1) = 6 .
2
Hence determine the expression for f ( x ) .

Worked solution
Construct equations using the conditions given.
f ( x ) = ax 3 + bx 2 + cx + d

1 1 1
f ( 0 ) = − , so d = − and f ( x ) = ax 3 + bx 2 + cx −
2 2 2
f ' ( x ) = 3ax 2 + 2bx + c

1
f ' ( 0 ) = 5 , so c = 5 and f ( x ) = ax 3 + bx 2 + 5 x −
2
f (1) = 6 , so:

1
a +b+5− =6
2
3
a+b = [1]
2
f ' ( x ) = 3ax 2 + 2bx + 5

f ' ( 4 ) = −63 , so:

3a ( 4 ) + 2b ( 4 ) + 5 =−63
2

48a + 8b =−68
17
6a + b =− [ 2]
2
[ 2] − [1] :
5a = −10
a = −2

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Substitute into [1] :

3
−2 + b =
2
7
b=
2
7 2 1
∴ f ( x) =
−2 x 3 + x + 5x −
2 2
Answer
7 1 7 1
a = −2 , b = , c = 5 , d = − ; f ( x) =
−2 x 3 + x 2 + 5 x −
2 2 2 2

(b) Determine the coordinates of the stationary points, using the second derivative analysis to
determine their nature.
Worked solution
7 2 1
Differentiate f ( x ) =
−2 x 3 + x + 5x − .
2 2
f '( x) =
−6 x 2 + 7 x + 5
= (
− 6x2 − 7 x − 5 )
− ( 2 x + 1)( 3 x − 5 )
=

Stationary points occur where f ' ( x ) = 0 .

− ( 2 x + 1)( 3 x − 5 ) =
0

1 5
x= − , x=
2 3
3 2
 1  1 7 1  1 1
f −  = −2  −  +  −  + 5  −  −
 2  2 2 2  2 2
1 7
= + −3
4 8
15
= −
8
3 2
5 5 75 5 1
f  = −2   +   + 5   −
3 3 23 3 2
250 175 25 1
= − + + −
27 18 3 2
224
=
27

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Determine the nature of the stationary points using the second derivative analysis.
f '' ( x ) =
−12 x + 7

 1  1
f ''  −  =
−12  −  + 7
 2  2
= 13 > 0
5 5
f ''   =−12   + 7
3 3
=−13 < 0
 1 15   5 224 
Therefore,  − , −  is a local minimum and  ,  is a local maximum.
 2 8  3 27 
Answer
 1 15   5 224 
local minimum:  − , −  ; local maximum:  , 
 2 8  3 27 

(c) Determine the coordinates of the point of inflection, and the intervals for which f(x) is increasing
and decreasing, then sketch the graph of f(x).
Worked solution
Consider the value of the second derivative, f '' ( x ) =
−12 x + 7 , at the point of inflection.

7
f '' ( x ) = 0 when x =
12
3 2
7  7  7 7  7 1
f  = −2   +   + 5   −
 12   12  2  12   12  2
1387
=
432
 7 1387 
The point of inflection is  , .
 12 432 
1 5
f ( x ) is increasing where f ' ( x ) > 0 , so − <x< .
2 3
1 5
f ( x ) is decreasing where f ' ( x ) < 0 , so x < − and x > .
2 3
Determine the intercepts.
7 2 1
f ( x) =
−2 x3 + x + 5x −
2 2
 1
The coordinates of the y -intercept are  0, −  .
 2

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 30
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Let f ( x ) = 0 .

7 2 1
−2 x3 + x + 5x − =0
2 2
1
−
2
(
4 x3 − 7 x 2 − 10 x + 1 =
0 )
1
(
− ( x + 1) 4 x 2 − 11x + 1 =
2
0 )
x = −1 or
11 ± 121 − 16
x=
8
11 ± 105
=
8
 11 − 105 
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −1, 0 ) ,  , 0  (or approximately ( 0.09, 0 ) )
 8 
 11 + 105 
and  , 0  (or approximately ( 2.66, 0 ) ).
 8 
Answer
1 5 1 5
f ( x ) is increasing: − < x < ; decreasing: x < − and x >
2 3 2 3

TF 24 Consider the function f ( x ) =x − 12 x + d .

3

(a) Let d = 0 .
(i) Use second derivative analysis to locate any stationary points and determine their nature.

Worked solution
f ( x=
) x3 − 12 x
f ' (=
x ) 3 x 2 − 12

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
f '' ( x ) = 6 x

For f ' ( x ) = 0 :

3 x 2 − 12 =
0
3 x 2 = 12
x2 = 4
x = ±2
f '' ( −2 ) = 6 ( −2 )
=−12 < 0
f '' ( 2 ) = 6 ( 2 )
= 12 > 0
f ( −2 ) =( −2 ) − 12 ( −2 )
3

=−8 + 24
= 16

f (=
2) ( 2) − 12 ( 2 )
3

= 8 − 24
= −16
Therefore, ( −2,16 ) is a local maximum and ( 2, −16 ) is a local minimum.

Answer
local maximum: ( −2,16 ) ; local minimum: ( 2, −16 )

(ii) Sketch the graph of y = f ( x ) showing the features identified so far as well as the axis
intercepts.

Worked solution
f ( x=
) x3 − 12 x
f (0) = 0

The coordinates of the y -intercept are ( 0, 0 ) .

Let f ( x ) = 0 :

x3 − 12 x =
0
(
x x 2 − 12 =
0 )
x = 0 or

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

x = ± 12
= ±2 3

( )
The coordinates of the x -intercepts are −2 3, 0 , ( 0, 0 ) and 2 3, 0 . ( )
Answer

(b) Let d be any number.

(i) Determine the set of values of d for which the graph of y = f ( x ) has three distinct
x -intercepts.

Worked solution
The value of d represents a vertical translation of the graph of f ( x=
) x3 − 12 x .
Because the local maximum had a y -value of 16 , the graph can shift up to, but not including,
16 units and still have three distinct x -intercepts.
The same argument holds for the local minimum, so −16 < d < 16 .
Answer
−16 < d < 16
(ii) Determine the set of values of d for which the graph of y = f ( x ) meets the x -axis in
precisely two distinct points.

Worked solution
Because the local maximum had a y -value of 16 , the graph could shift 16 units down to have
two distinct x -intercepts.
The same argument holds for the local minimum, so d = ±16 .
Answer
d = ±16
(iii) For each value of d found in part (ii), determine the coordinates of the two distinct
x -intercepts.

Worked solution
Solve f ( x ) = 0 for d = ±16 .

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 33
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Use the position of the translated graph to determine the factors.
d = 16 :
x3 − 12 x + 16 =
0
( x − 2) ( x + 4) =
2
0

The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −4, 0 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .

d = −16 :
x3 − 12 x − 16 =
0
( x + 2) ( x − 4) =
2
0

The coordinates of the x -intercepts are ( −2, 0 ) and ( 4, 0 ) .

Answer
d = 16 : ( −4,0 ) and ( 2,0 ) ; d = −16 : ( −2,0) and ( 4,0)

TF 25 A piece of wire of length p metres is to be cut with one piece forming an equilateral triangle and the
other forming a circle. Let the length of wire used to form an equilateral triangle be 3x metres.

(a) Determine the set of possible values that x can take.

Worked solution
The minimum value for x is 0 , because you do not have to put any wire into the triangle.
The maximum value occurs where:
3x = p
p
x=
3
p
So 0 < x <
3
Answer
p
0< x<
3

(b) Determine an expression for the total area A ( x ) , in square metres, of the regions enclosed by
the wire.

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 34
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Worked solution

Use Pythagoras’ theorem to find the height of the triangle.

2
x
=
h x − 
2

2
x2
= x2 −
4
3x 2
=
4
3x
=
2
1
AT = ×b×h
2
1 3x
= × x×
2 2
2
3x
=
4
The perimeter (circumference) of the circle is ( p − 3 x ) m , so use C = 2π r to find an expression
for the radius of the circle.
2π r= p − 3 x
p − 3x
r=
2π
AC = π r 2
 p − 3x 
2

=π  
 2π 
( p − 3x )
2

=
4π

3x 2 ( p − 3x )
2

( x)
Therefore, A= +
4 4π

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Answer

3x 2 ( p − 3x )
2

( x)
A= +
4 4π

(c) Use second derivative analysis to determine the value of x for which the total area is a
minimum.
Worked solution

3x 2 ( p − 3x )
2

( x)
A= +
4 4π
2 3 x 2 ( −3)( p − 3 x )
'( x)
A= +
4 4π
3x 3 ( p − 3x )
= −
2 2π
3 9
A '' ( x ) = + > 0 , so the stationary point will represent a minimum.
2 2π
Let A ' ( x ) = 0 :

3x 3 ( p − 3x )
− =0
2 2π
3π x − 3 p + 9 x
=0
2π
( )
3π + 9 x =
3p
3p
x=
3π + 9
3p
So the total area is a minimum when x = m.
3π + 9
Answer
3p
x= m
3π + 9

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 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
26 Jacob participates in a school sporting event where he has to swim from a point 600 m away from the
beach and then run to a designated place as shown in the diagram. Jacob swims at an average rate of
1 m/s and runs at a rate of 4 m/s.

(a) If the distance BD is x m , write an expression for the time (in seconds) taken to cover the
distance from point A to point C , passing through B , in terms of x .
Worked solution
Write an expression for the time taken (in seconds) to travel distance AB , in terms of x .

From ∆ABD , using Pythagoras' theorem,=

AB AD 2 + BD 2 , where BD = x .

=
AB 6002 + x 2
distance
time =
speed
AB
t AB =
1
= 6002 + x 2
Write an expression for the time taken to travel distance BC , in terms of x .
= 400 − x
BC
BC
t BC =
4
400 − x
=
4
The total time to cover the distance required is:
400 − x
t ( x=
) 6002 + x 2 +
4
Answer
400 − x
t ( x=
) 6002 + x 2 +
4

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 37
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) How far from the designated point C should Jacob come out from the water in order to
minimise his time and what is this minimum time? Give your answers correct to 1 decimal
place.
Worked solution
For a minimum time, the derivative of the time function with respect to x should be zero.
dt 2x 1
= −
dx 2 600 + x
2 2 4
x 1
= −
600 + x
2 2 4
dt
Let = 0:
dx
x 1
=
6002 + x 2 4
6002 + x 2 =
4x
6002 + x 2 =
16 x 2
6002 = 15 x 2
6002
x =
2

15
600
x= ±
15
= ±40 15
= ±154.9 (1 d.p.)

Because x represents a distance, the only solution is x = 154.9 m .

Check the nature of this point using the second derivative.
2x
6002 + x 2 ×1 − x ×
2 6002 + x 2
2
d t
=
( )
2
dx 2 6002 + x 2

x2
600 + x − 2 2

= 6002 + x 2
6002 + x 2
6002 + x 2 − x 2
=
( 600 2
+ x2 ) 6002 + x 2
6002
=
( 600 2
+ x2 ) 6002 + x 2

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 38
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
Because the second derivative is always positive, any stationary point will be a minimum.
Point B is 400 − 154.9 =
245.1 m away from the designated point C .
The minimum time is:
400 − 154.9
t (154.9 ) = 6002 + (154.9 ) +
2

4
= 680.9 s
= 11 min 20.9 s
Jacob should come out from the water 245.1 m south of the designated point C for a minimum
time of 11 min 20.9 s .
Answer
245.1 m south of the designated point C; minimum time: 11 min 20.9 s

(c) Determine the domain of the function t (x), sketch its graph and explain the meaning of the
shape of the graph for this practical situation.
Worked solution
The domain is 0 ≤ x ≤ 400 .
Determine all key features of the graph.
400 − x
t ( x=
) 6002 + x 2 +
4
400
t (=
0 ) 600 +
4
= 700
So the t -intercept is ( 0, 700 ) .

There are no x -intercepts because the minimum value was above the axis.
The minimum is (154.9, 680.9 ) .

The endpoints are ( 0, 700 ) and ( 400, 721.1) .

The total time spent covering the distances AB and BC is a minimum of 680.9 s when the exit
point is 154.9 m north of D . If the exit point was D , the time would be 700 s and if the exit
point was C , the time would be 721.1 s .
Answer
domain: 0 ≤ x ≤ 400
The total time spent covering the distances AB and BC is a minimum of 680.9 s when the exit
point is 154.9 m north of D. If the exit point was D, the time would be 700 s and if the exit
point was C, the time would be 721.1 s .

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 39
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland

27 Consider the functions f ( x ) = x 3 − 9 x 2 + 3 x − 7 and g ( x ) =

−5 x 2 + 7 x − 2 as shown in the diagram.

(a) Write an expression in terms of x for the vertical distance AB shown.

Worked solution
The parabola is above the cubic, so the vertical distance is given by g ( x ) − f ( x ) .
Calculate the distance:

(
AB =−5 x 2 + 7 x − 2 − x3 − 9 x 2 + 3 x − 7 )
=−5 x 2 + 7 x − 2 − x3 + 9 x 2 − 3 x + 7
=− x3 + 4 x 2 + 4 x + 5
Answer
AB =− x3 + 4 x 2 + 4 x + 5

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 40
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
(b) Determine the coordinates of points A and B such that the vertical distance AB is a local
minimum (but not a global minimum) and calculate this distance. Write your results correct to
1 decimal place.
Worked solution
Let r = AB :
r ( x) =− x3 + 4 x2 + 4 x + 5

r ' ( x) =
−3 x 2 + 8 x + 4

r '' ( x ) =−6 x + 8

Let r ' ( x ) = 0 :

−3 x 2 + 8 x + 4 =0
−8 ± 64 − 4 ( −3)( 4 )
x=
2 ( −3)
−8 ± 112
=
−6
−8 ± 4 7
=
−6
4±2 7
=
3
Therefore, x = −0.4305 ( 4 d.p.) or x = 3.0972 ( 4 d.p.)

r '' ( −0.4305 ) =−6 ( −0.4305 ) + 8 > 0 , so there is a minimum at x = −0.4305 .

r '' ( 3.0972 ) =−6 ( 3.0972 ) + 8 < 0 , so there is a maximum at x = 3.0972 .

Note that the global minimum, where the graphs cross, does not show up as a minimum value
because the function g ( x ) − f ( x ) becomes negative to the right of the intersection.

f ( −0.4305) =( −0.4305) − 9 ( −0.4305) + 3 ( −0.4305) − 7

3 2

= −10.039 ( 3 d.p.)

g ( −0.4305) =−5 ( −0.4305) + 7 ( −0.4305) − 2

2

= −5.940 ( 3 d.p.)

( x) g ( x) − f ( x)
r=

rmin =−5.940 − ( −10.039 )

= 4.1 (1 d.p.)

So A is ( −0.4, −5.9 ) and B is ( −0.4, −10.0 ) .

Copyright © Pearson Australia 2019 (a division of Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd) ISBN 978 1 4886 2142 0 Page 41
 Mathematical Methods 12 Queensland
The minimum distance is 4.1 units .
Answer
A ( −0.4, −5.9 ) , B ( −0.4, −10.0 ) ; 4.1 units

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