Title Secondary School Additional Mathematics Notes Compilation [Version 8]

Date 20/11/2024
Author AprilDolphin
(Notice: Document is released under CC0 Public Domain Dedication)

Page Topic
2 Surds Manipulation

7 Quadratic Equations and Quadratic Inequalities

10 Exponents and Logarithms

16 Binomial Expansion

21 Coordinate Geometry of Circles

26 Trigonometry

38 Differentiation of Algebraic Functions

49 Differentiation of Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

53 Differentiation of Trigonometric Functions

55 Differentiation – Applications of Differentiation to Tangent and Normal Lines

59 Integration of Algebraic Functions

66 Integration of Exponential Functions and Integration Leading to Logarithmic

Functions

68 Integration of Trigonometric Functions

69 Definite Integrals – Integration as a Method to Finding Area Under Curve

 Title Surds Manipulation
Author -
Date 31/12/2022

Basic Surds Rules to Understand before Proceeding

Given the following expression can be written in the following form
𝑔√𝑎𝑏2
It can be rewritten as the following
𝑔𝑏√𝑎

Example 1.1
√8 can be decomposed into the following
√2 × 4
Since 4 = 22 , we can rewrite in the following manner: 2√2

Law of Surds (Only involving square roots)

√𝑎 × √𝑏 = √𝑎𝑏
𝑎√𝑏 × 𝑐√𝑑 = 𝑎𝑐(√𝑏𝑑)
√𝑎2 = 𝑎
√𝑎 𝑎
=√
√𝑏 𝑏
𝑚√𝑎 + 𝑛√𝑎 = √𝑎(𝑚 + 𝑛)
𝑚√𝑎 − 𝑛√𝑎 = √𝑎 (𝑚 − 𝑛)

Rules of rationalizing the denominator in surds calculation and manipulation

Rule 1
If expression is in the following form
𝑎
𝑔√𝑏

Multiply by the denominator to both numerator and denominator to get the following
𝑎 𝑔√𝑏
×
𝑔√𝑏 𝑔√𝑏
Rule 2.
If the expression is in the following form or show some near resemblance to the
following form
𝑎 + 𝑔√𝑏
𝑐 − 𝑑 √𝑝

Find the conjugate value of the denominator whereby the sign in between 𝑐 − 𝑑 √𝑝 is
flipped to positive and multiply conjugate value to both numerator and denominator to
get the following

𝑎 + 𝑔√𝑏 𝑐 + 𝑑 √𝑝
×
𝑐 − 𝑑 √𝑝 𝑐 + 𝑑 √𝑝

Rule 3.
If the expression is in the following form or show some near resemblance to the
following form
𝑎 + 𝑔√𝑏
𝑐 + 𝑑 √𝑝

Find the conjugate value of the denominator whereby the sign in between 𝑐 + 𝑑 √𝑝 is
flipped to negative and multiply conjugate value to both numerator and denominator to
get the following

𝑎 + 𝑔√𝑏 𝑐 − 𝑑 √𝑝
×
𝑐 + 𝑑 √𝑝 𝑐 − 𝑑 √𝑝

Question 1.
1.1 Simplify the following expression
(a) 11√7 + 6√28 − 5√63
(b) (4√3 − √2)(√3 − 5√2)
 (a) 11√7 + 6√28 − 5√63
Rewrite as 11√7 + 6√7 × 4 − 5√9 × 7
Once again can be rewritten as 11√7 + 6(2)√7 − 5(3)√7

We then proceed to simplify the expression as

(11 + 12 − 15)√7 = 8√7

(b) (4√3 − √2)(√3 − 5√2)

Expand the expression into the following
4√3(√3) − √2 (√3) − 5√(2)(4√3) + 5√2(√2)
4(3) − √6 − 20√6 + 5(2) = 12 + 10 − √6 − 20√6 = 22 − 21√6

1.2 Rationalize the denominator of the following

12
(a)
√3

2−√7
(b)
3+4√7

1
(c)
3−√5

Solutions
12 √3 12√3
(a) × = = 4√3
√3 √3 3

2−√7 3−4√7 (2−√7)(3−4√7)

(b) × =
3+4√7 3−4√7 (3+4√7)(3−4√7)

6 − 3√7 − 8√7 + 28
=
9 − 42 (7)

6 + 28 − 3√7 − 8√7 (34 − 11√7) −34 + 11√7 11√7 34

= = = = −
−103 −103 103 103 103

1 3+√5 3+√5
(c) × =
3−√5 3+√5 32 −5

3 + √5 3 √5
= = +
4 4 4
2.3[Equations Involving Surds]
Step by Step Instructions for solving such equations
1. Rearrange the equation (if necessary) such that all square-roots are on the
left-hand-side and all non-square-roots are on the right-hand-side.
2. Square both sides and then use the usual method you learn during
Elementary Mathematics to solve equation (i.e. Rearrange and then use
Quadratic Formula, etc.)
3. Substitute answers back into the original questions and reject values that
don’t make sense (i.e. square root of negative values, etc.)
4. Use the remaining values as answers. I typically leave the answers in surd
form for Additional Mathematics paper unless the paper specifies something
else.

(a)√7𝑥 + 5 = 𝑥 + 1
(b) 5√5𝑥 + 9 − 4𝑥 − 3 = 0

2
(a) (√7𝑥 + 5) = (𝑥 + 1)2
7𝑥 + 5 = 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 1
0 = 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 1 − 7𝑥 − 5
0 = 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 4

After using the quadratic formula, we get the following

5 √41 5 √41
𝑥= − 𝑂𝑅 𝑥 = +
2 2 2 2

(b) 5√5𝑥 + 9 − 4𝑥 − 3 = 0

Rearrange the equation such that square roots are on one side and non-square-
roots are on the other side.
5√5𝑥 + 9 = 4𝑥 + 3
2
(5√5𝑥 + 9) = (4𝑥 + 3)2
25(5𝑥 + 9) = (4𝑥 )2 + 2(3)(4𝑥 ) + 9
125𝑥 + 225 = 16𝑥 2 + 24𝑥 + 9
0 = 16𝑥 2 + 24𝑥 − 125𝑥 + 9 − 225
0 = 16𝑥 2 − 101𝑥 − 216
27
𝑥 = − 𝑂𝑅 𝑥 = 8
16
 27
After substituting the value 𝑥 = − into 5√5𝑥 + 9 − 4𝑥 − 3 = 0
16
27 27
5√5 (− ) + 9 − 4 (− ) − 3 = 7.5
16 16
27
Literally implies that 7.5 = 0 (Reason for rejecting 𝑥 = − , substituting the
16
value into the question yield illogical results.)

After substituting value 𝑥 = 8 into 5√5𝑥 + 9 − 4𝑥 − 3 = 0

5√5(8) + 9 − 4(8) − 3 = 0
When we worked out the left side of the equation, we get 0 = 0, which is within
mathematical logic, therefore, we accept this as the only valid answer and thus
𝑥=8

2.4 [Equality of Surds]

2 8
(a) Given that 𝑎 + 𝑏√2 = (3 − √2) −
1−√2
Find the value for 𝑎 and 𝑏

2 8 1 + √2
(3 − √2) − ×
1 − √2 1 + √2

[8(1 + √2)]
= 9 − 2(3)(√2) + 2 −
(1 − √2)(1 + √2)

[8(1 + √2)]
= 9 − 6√2 + 2 −
(1 − √2)(1 + √2)

8+8√2
= 11 − 6√2 −
12 −2

= 11 − 6√2 + 8 + 8√2

= 19 + 2√2

19 + 2√2 = 𝑎 + 𝑏√2

Therefore 𝑏 = 2 and 𝑎 = 19
Title Quadratic Functions and Quadratic Equation
Date 3/1/2023
Author -

Finding minimum point or maximum point of a Quadratic Function by completing

the square method
Step 1. Determine if the Quadratic Function in question has a minimum point or a
maximum point, it can be done after equating the quadratic function to zero and
rearranging in the following form
𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0
If 𝑎 > 0 the quadratic function in question has a minimum point
If 𝑎 < 0 the quadratic function in question has a maximum point

Step 2. Apply completing the square method

1. Factor the value 𝑎 out of the equation
Given an equation 2𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 − 18 = 0
2(𝑥 2 − 5𝑥) − 18 = 0
𝑏 2 𝑏2
2. Add ( ) into the bracket and deduct ( ) from outside the bracket
2𝑎 4𝑎

2
10 2 102
2 [𝑥 − 5𝑥 + ( ) ] − 18 −
2(2) 4(2)
2
5 61
2 (𝑥 − ) −
2 2
𝑏 5
3. In this case, x-coordinate value of the minimum point is − which is
2𝑎 2
61
The y coordinate value in this case is −
2

Basic Concepts of Discriminant to Understand Before Proceeding

Any quadratic equation being rearranged in the following form 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 has
the values has of 𝐷 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 as the discriminant value.
Condition of Discriminant Consequences and Interpretation
𝐷>0 Quadratic Equation has two real and distinct roots.
𝐷=0 Quadratic Equation has real and equal roots.
𝐷≥0 Quadratic Equation has real roots in general.
𝐷<0 Quadratic Equation has unreal roots. (No real roots)
Discriminant Manipulation
Question 2
Find the range of value for 𝑘 for which the expression 3𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 𝑘 is always positive
for all real value of 𝑥.

[When you see the following keywords: Always Positive, Always Negative, No Real
Roots, it implies the graph does not have any contact with the X-axis, thus having no real
roots and thus 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0.]

Knowing such information, we will proceed on with finding a value of 𝑘 that can satisfy
the requirement of no real roots at all.

62 − 4(3)(𝑘 ) < 0
36 − 12𝑘 < 0
−12𝑘 < −36
12𝑘 > 36
𝑘>3

Question 3
The expression (𝑘 + 3)𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 𝑘 = 5 has two distinct solutions for 𝑥.
(a) Show that 𝑘 satisfy 𝑘 2 − 2𝑘 − 24 < 0
(b) Find the set of possible value of 𝑘

[When you see the following keywords, pass through graph at two distinct points,
distinct roots or anything similar, it means the graph have two real and distinct roots,
thus 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0.]
(a)
62 − 4(𝑘 + 3)(𝑘 − 5) > 0

36 − 4(𝑘 2 + 3𝑘 − 5𝑘 − 15) > 0

36 − 4𝑘 2 − 12𝑘 + 20𝑘 + 60 > 0

−4𝑘 2 − 12𝑘 + 20𝑘 + 60 − 36 > 0

−𝑘 2 − 3𝑘 + 5𝑘 + 24 > 0

−𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 + 24 > 0
𝑘 2 − 2𝑘 − 24 < 0 [Shown]
(b)
𝑘 2 − 2𝑘 − 24 < 0
Factorize left hand side to get
(𝑘 − 6)(𝑘 + 4) < 0

(Less than zero means 𝑘 must be within a range of values)

Thus, we get
𝑘 < 6 OR 𝑘 < −4

Which can be written as

−4 < 𝑘 < 6

Question 3
Find the values of 𝑝 for which the equation 3𝑥 2 + 2𝑝𝑥 − 𝑝 has
(a) Real and Equal Roots
(b) Distinct Roots
When you see the following keywords “has only 1 solution”, “real and equal roots”,
“repeated roots” or anything similar the graph merely has contact with the X-axis one
time, thus 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

(a)
(2𝑝)2 − 4(3)(−𝑝) = 0
4𝑝2 + 12𝑝 = 0
𝑝 (𝑝 + 3) = 0
𝑝 = −3 or 𝑝 = 0

(b)
(2𝑝)2 − 4(3)(−𝑝) > 0
4𝑝2 + 12𝑝 > 0
(More than zero means, value must not be within a range which means)
𝑝 > 0 OR 𝑝 < −3
 Title Exponents and Logarithms
Author Lim Wang Sheng, School of Information Technology, Nanyang Polytechnic
[CCA: NYP Mentoring Club]
Date 23/9/2018
**This topic assumes you already understand your Elementary Mathematics Concepts.
Applicable to the following courses/students.
• ‘O’ Level Additional Mathematics
• Nanyang Polytechnic – School of Chemical and Life Sciences – Mathematics for
Life Sciences Module
• Nanyang Polytechnic – School of Engineering – Engineering Mathematics 1A
Module
• Junior College/ A Levels – H1/H2 Mathematics
• Institute of Technical Education (ITE Colleges) – Technical Mathematics Module
(Specific Courses and Levels Only)

Relationship Between Exponents and Logarithm as Follows

An expression written in 312 = 531441
Exponential Form
If written as Logarithmic log 3 531441 = 12
Format, it looks like this

Generally Speaking
If 𝑎𝑏 = 𝑐
In this case,
𝑏 is called the exponent or power
𝑎 is called the base value.
It can be rewritten as log 𝑎 𝑐 = 𝑏
In this case
𝑏 is known as the logarithm
𝑎 is called the base value

Laws of Logarithm
log 𝑎 (𝑥𝑦) = log 𝑎 𝑥 + log 𝑎 𝑦

𝑥
log 𝑎 ( ) = log 𝑎 𝑥 − log 𝑎 𝑦
𝑦

log 𝑎 (𝑥)𝑦 = 𝑦 log 𝑎 (𝑥)

 log𝑏 (𝑥) Calculator Input [Calculator assumes
log 𝑎 𝑥 =
log𝑏 (𝑎)
the input is in base value is 10 by
default]
If 𝑎 𝑥 = 𝑦
You literally type in the following into
the calculator to find 𝑥
log(𝑦)
=𝑥
log(𝑎)
Relationship Between Logarithm and Exponents as follows
If 𝒂𝒙 = 𝒚
𝑥 = log 𝑎 (𝑦)

If 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝒂 𝒙 = 𝒚
𝑥 = 𝑎𝑦

If you are thinking about calculator input, the following property will be useful if
needed. (As said before, calculator assumes the 𝒍𝒐𝒈(𝒙) , as logarithm of which base is
10.)
𝑎𝑥 = 𝑦

log(𝑦)
𝑥=
log(𝑎)

log(𝑥) = 𝑦
𝑥 = 10log(𝑥) = 10𝑦

Motivations for introducing logarithm and modern use of logarithm includes the
following
• Historical use of logarithm includes multiplication of large numbers, which can be
converted to adding of their logarithm under a certain base value and getting the
final value
• Modern use of logarithm includes, astronomy (studying brightness of stars),
computation (performing data encryption) and more.
Introducing concept of base 𝒆, also known as Euler’s Number.
• 𝑒 is approximately 2.71828 when rounded of to 6 significant figures.
• 𝑒 can be approximated using the formula as shown below
1 1 1 1
𝑒 = 1+ + + ……
1! 2! 3! 𝑛!

𝑛! = 𝑛(𝑛 − 1)(𝑛 − 2)(𝑛 − 3) … … (3)(2)(1)

• The approximation gets better as more terms are added.
• Used in modelling continuous growth or continuous decay in Mathematics and
Sciences.
• Modern scientific calculators have this functionality, just locate button 𝑒 𝑥 𝑜𝑟 𝑒 on
your scientific calculator.
Introducing Natural Logarithm (𝐥𝐧(𝒙))
• Natural Logarithm assumes that the base of a certain exponent is exactly 𝑒
• It finds the logarithm where the value has base value is 𝑒

The relationship between 𝐥𝐧(𝐱) and 𝐞𝐱 goes as follows

If, 𝒆𝒙 = 𝒚 and you are being asked to find the value of 𝒙
ln(𝑒 𝑥 ) = ln(𝑦)
𝑥 = ln(𝑦)

If, 𝐥𝐧(𝒙) = 𝒚 and you are being asked to find the value of 𝒙
𝑒 ln(𝑥) = 𝑒 𝑦
𝑥 = 𝑒𝑦

(For students studying higher level Mathematics, your lecturers may tell you Logarithm
an inverse function of Exponent and vice-versa is true as well, this is because, inverse
function sends a function back to where it originally started.)

Solving equations involving Logarithm and Exponents

(The following questions are provided by my friend in Nanyang Polytechnic who is
studying Electrical Engineering related courses, he explained they are taken from his
Engineering Mathematics Notes.)
If questions specify ln(𝑥) or something similar, the base is exactly 𝑒. If question specify
log(𝑥) without base value information, the base value is to be assumed to be 10.

Example 1.
(a) 2𝑥 = 16
(b) 5𝑥 = 0.3
(c) 𝑒 −𝑥 = 17.54
 (d) log(𝑥) = 2.3
(e) log(2𝑥) + log(𝑥) = 9

Solutions
1(a)
2𝑥 = 16
log 2 16 = 𝑥 = 4

1(b)
5𝑥 = 0.3
log 0.3 5 = −0.748

1(c)
𝑒 −𝑥 = 17.54
ln(𝑒 −𝑥 ) = ln(17.54)
−𝑥 = ln(17.54) = 2.86
𝑥 = −2.86

1(d)
log(𝑥) = 2.3
10log(𝑥) = 102.3
𝑥 = 102.3 = 200

1(e)
log(2𝑥) + log(𝑥) = 9

Applying law of logarithm, we get

log(2𝑥) + log(𝑥) = log(2𝑥 2 ) = 9
2
10log(2𝑥 ) = 2𝑥 2 = 109
2𝑥 2 = 109
109
𝑥2 =
2

109
𝑥=√
2
Example 2
(a) 22𝑥 − 8(2𝑥 ) + 15 = 0
(b) 𝑒 2𝑥 − 7𝑒 𝑥 + 12 = 0
𝑥
(c) 𝑒 𝑒 = 3

Depending on the situation, you sometimes may have to reject values, you should
always substitute back into the original equation or check with the original question if
the values make sense in the question’s context.

[I always use 𝑢 to perform substitution, you can use any letter you like but make sure
you don’t get yourself confused afterwards.]

Solutions
2(a)
22𝑥 − 8(2𝑥 ) + 15 = 0
Substitute 𝑢 𝑥 = 2𝑥 (In this case, I pick the smallest power component within the
equation to substitute.)

The equation effectively becomes the following after I substituted the component
values.
𝑢2 − 8𝑢 + 15 = 0

Using Quadratic Formula, which I won’t elaborate further on.

I get the following roots for 𝑢
𝑢 = 3 𝑂𝑅 𝑢 = 5

The roots can be written as the following values since 𝑢 = 2𝑥 as defined earlier
2𝑥 = 3 𝑂𝑅 2𝑥 = 5
𝑥 = log 2 (3) 𝑂𝑅 𝑥 = log 2 (5)
𝑥 = 1.584962 𝑂𝑅 𝑥 = 2.321928
2(b) 𝑒 2𝑥 − 7𝑒 𝑥 + 12 = 0
Substitute 𝑢 = 𝑒 𝑥
Equation becomes the following
𝑢2 − 7𝑢 + 12 = 0

Using quadratic formula, we can get the following answers

𝑢 = 3 𝑂𝑅 𝑢 = 4

Which can be rewritten as

𝑒 𝑥 = 3 𝑂𝑅 𝑒 𝑥 = 4

Taking natural logarithm on both sides of each solution to arrive at value of 𝑥

ln(𝑒 𝑥 ) = ln(3) 𝑂𝑅 ln(𝑒 𝑥 ) = ln(4)
𝑥 = ln(3) = 1.098612 𝑂𝑅 𝑥 = ln(4) = 1.386294
𝑥
2(c) 𝑒 𝑒 = 3
Take natural logarithm on both sides,
𝑥
ln(𝑒 𝑒 ) = ln(3)

We get the following equation

𝑒 𝑥 = ln(3)

Take natural logarithm on both sides once again the get the following,
ln(𝑒 𝑥 ) = ln(ln(3))
𝑥 = ln(ln(3))
𝑥 = 0.094048
 Title Binomial Expansion and Binomial Theorem
Author Lim Wang Sheng, School of Information Technology, Nanyang
Polytechnic
[CCA: NYP Mentoring Club]
Date 1/6/2018

Our learning objective

➢ To learn how to read the notation of binomial expansion
➢ To learn how to use binomial theorem for various calculations

Application of Binomial Expansion includes the following:

Serve as a good foundation for studying
➢ H2 Mathematics – Statistics
➢ Engineering – Engineering Mathematics (Statistics)
➢ Mathematics for Life Sciences – Biostatistics
➢ Information Technology – Computing Mathematics (Statistics)
➢ Business – Business Statistics

As Additional Mathematics itself isn’t a compulsory subject or prerequisite for

Polytechnic courses, those going for polytechnic can still study statistics module at
higher level and the below will be mentioned in your lecture. However, those going for
Junior College, it is important to take this seriously as the Mathematics in H2 is
considerably harder than the Polytechnic’s Statistical Analysis module, without such
foundation, catching up is rather difficult if not impossible.

While the notation for binomial expansion varies in different textbooks, they literally,
mean the same thing. I will try my best to explain the various ways binomial expansion
formula is being written and explain how they correlate the each other.
Standard Universal Binomial Expansion Notation
(𝑎 + 𝑏 ) 𝑛 Multiply (𝑎 + 𝑏) by itself 𝑛 number of times

𝑛 From 𝑛 number of objects, you choose 𝑟 of them.

( ) 𝑛!
𝑟 The value (𝑛𝑟) = , is the number of combinations or the number
𝑟!(𝑛−𝑟)!
of ways you can arrange 𝑟 objects, assuming the order doesn’t matter.

To calculate (𝑛𝑟) on your scientific calculator, you press the value of 𝑛,

followed by “C”, followed by value of 𝑟
(Ask teachers if in doubt)

*** Various online resources may write this notation in a different

way. Notations like 𝑛 𝐶 𝑟 mean the same thing, it meant from 𝑛
number of objects, choose 𝑟 of them and calculate the number of
combinations.

𝑛! Known as 𝑛 factorial.

Multiply the integer value of 𝑛, (𝑛 − 1), (𝑛 − 2) all the way to

(3), (2)(1) Note: 𝑛 must be an integer and 𝑛 ≥ 0 (𝑛 < 0 is undefined)
Example:
5! = 5 × 4 × 3 × 2 × 1
If you get an error message while computing factorials in your
calculator, check the following and correct them accordingly.
(Casio FX-95 SG Plus and Casio FX-96 GS PLUS Calculator)
Syntax Error
➢ Check if you keyed in something wrongly into the calculator,
anything from, missing values, forget to close bracket, etc.
Math Error
➢ Check if you accidentally keyed in negative numbers, followed
by the factorial button. (Factorials of negative numbers are
undefined)
➢ Check if you accidentally keyed in a value with decimal places,
followed by the factorial button (Factorials of decimal digits are
invalid)
➢ Check if you accidentally keyed in a value ≥ 70, followed by the
factorial button (Calculators are unable to compute Factorials of
70 or greater)
Local Standard Notation
𝑛 𝑛 𝑛
(𝑎 + 𝑏)𝑛 = 𝑎𝑛 + ( ) 𝑎𝑛−1 𝑏1 + ( ) 𝑎𝑛−2 𝑏2 … ( ) 𝑎𝑛−𝑟 𝑏𝑟 … + 𝑏𝑛
1 2 𝑟

(𝑛) th term

Expression to be
evaluated
(𝑟 + 1)𝑡ℎ term
3rd term

1st term 2nd term

 Binomial Expansion General Term Formula as Follows
𝑛
𝑻𝒓+𝟏 = ( ) 𝑎𝑛−𝑟 𝑏𝑟
𝑟

Examples as Follows

Example 1:
Given the following binomial expansion, write down the first 3 terms of the expansion,
in the simplest form possible.

(𝑥 + 5)12

Approaching the question using General Term Formula:

12
𝑇1 = ( ) 𝑥 12 (50 ) = 𝑥 12
0

12
𝑇2 = ( ) 𝑥 12−1 (51 ) = 60𝑥 11
1

12
𝑇3 = ( ) 𝑥 12−2 (52 ) = 66(25)𝑥 10 = 1650𝑥 10
2

First three terms as written as below is:

𝑥 12 , 60𝑥 11 , 1650𝑥 10
Example 2:
Expand (4𝑝 + 𝑞)5 and write down only the first 4 terms of the expansion in descending
powers of 𝑝.

(4𝑝 + 𝑞)5 =

5 5 5 5
( ) 4𝑝5 + ( ) (4𝑝)4 (𝑞1 ) + ( ) (4𝑝)3 (𝑞2 ) + ( ) (4𝑝)2 (𝑞3 ) … =
0 1 2 3

After some calculator input, we get the following 4 terms in descending powers of 𝑝

1024𝑝5 + 1280𝑝4 𝑞 + 640𝑝3 𝑞2 + 160𝑝2 𝑞3 …

Example 3:
Expand (3 − 𝑥)8 and write down only the first 4 terms of the expansion in ascending
powers of 𝑥 and the term independent of 𝑥.

(3 − 𝑥)8 = (80)38 + (8) 37 (−𝑥)1 + (82)36 (−𝑥)2 − (83)35 (−𝑥)3 …=

1

After some calculator input, we get the following 4 terms

6561 − 17496𝑥 + 20412𝑥 2 − 13608𝑥 3 …

Since the question also demanded that we should find the term independent of 𝑥, we
should also explain what it means as well, by breaking it down.
In the case of the above binomial expansion, the phrase “term independent of 𝑥” means
a term that doesn’t include the letter 𝑥 at all, and in this case, we are referring to the
constant term which is 6561
 Title Coordinate Geometry of Circles
Date 28/11/2023
Note Questions all taken from Additional Mathematics Textbook
Warnings and Assumptions: This article assumes that you already have a good
foundation in the following:
- Basic Coordinate Geometry (Such as the ability to use formula to calculate the
length of a line given coordinate of both ends of the line)
- Use and understand substitution method to find solutions of simultaneous
equations in Elementary Mathematics.
- Able to solve quadratic equations, use completing the square method
extensively, understand how to solve quadratic inequalities efficiently and
understand how discriminant affect the behavior of a quadratic function

Standard Form of a Circle

(𝑥 − 𝑎 )2 + (𝑦 − 𝑏 ) 2 = 𝑟 2

Coordinates 𝐶(𝑎, 𝑏) is located at the center of the circle.

𝑟 refers to the radius of the circle

General Form of a Circle
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 2𝑔𝑥 + 2𝑓𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0

In this case, the coordinates of the center of the circle are 𝐶 (−𝑔, −𝑓), the radius of
the circle will be 𝑟 = √𝑔2 + 𝑓 2 − 𝑐

Note: Make sure the coefficient of both 𝑥 2 and 𝑦 2 are 1 before proceeding, if the
coefficient is not 1, you need to divide the whole equation by the coefficient until you
get 1 as the coefficient of both 𝑥 2 and 𝑦 2 .

Conditions Relating to Points Being on the circle, inside the circle or outside of the
circle (Let 𝑑 be the distance between the center of the circle and the point in
question)
Condition Interpretation & Consequences
𝑑>𝑟 Point is outside of the circle
𝑑=𝑟 Point is on the circle
𝑑<𝑟 Point is inside the circle
Given the following equation of circles, derive the coordinates of the center of the circle
along with the radius of the circle.

1(a). (𝑥 − 4)2 + (𝑦 + 5)2 = 36

1(b). 3(𝑥 − 7)2 + 3𝑦 2 − 48 = 0

1(a) Since the equation of the circle is already written in the standard form, we can
deduce the center of the circle is 𝐶 (4, −5) and the radius 𝑟 = 6 units

1(b).
Step 1: Divide the entire equation by 3
48
Which would get you (𝑥 − 7)2 + 𝑦 2 − = 0
3
(𝑥 − 7)2 + (𝑦 − 0)2 = 16
Coordinates of center of the circle = 𝐶 (7,0) and the radius 𝑟 = 4 units

Given the following equation of circles, derive the coordinates of the center of the circle
along with the radius of the circle.

2(a). 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 4𝑥 − 6𝑦 − 3 = 0
Method 1: Comparing with Generic Equation and Apply Formula Directly
Comparing the above equation with the generic equation for a circle,
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 2𝑔𝑥 + 2𝑓𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0

Therefore, 2𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥 and 2𝑓𝑦 = 6𝑦

𝑔 = −2 and 𝑓 = 3
Coordinates of center of the circle is 𝐶 (−2,3)

Radius of circle = √𝑔2 + 𝑓 2 − 𝑐 = √(−2)2 + 32 − (−3) = √16

Radius of circle = 𝑟 = 4

Method 2: Complete the Square

𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 4𝑥 − 6𝑦 − 3 = 0
Step 1. Rearrange the equation in a way it looks like the following
𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 𝑦 2 − 6𝑦 = 3
Step 2. Complete the square for both 𝑥 2 and 𝑦 2
2
4 2 2
6 2 4 2 6 2
𝑥 + 4𝑥 + ( ) + 𝑦 − 6𝑦 + ( ) = 3 + ( ) + ( )
2 2 2 2

(𝑥 + 2)2 + (𝑦 − 3)2 = 16

Comparing with the standard form of a circle which is

(𝑥 − 𝑎 )2 + (𝑦 − 𝑏 ) 2 = 𝑟 2

Center 𝐶 (−2,3), 𝑟 = 4

3(a)
(i) Find the equation of the circle which passes through point (1,3) and has its
center at 𝐶(2,5).
(ii) Determine whether 𝐴(3,4) and 𝐵(0,6) lies outside, inside or on the circle.

(i) Set (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) as the point at center and set (𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) as the point which the circle
passes through

Distance from center to the point which circle pass through is precisely the radius of the
circle, therefore, we can use the formula √(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 )2 + (𝑦2 − 𝑦1 )2 to deduce the
radius of the circle.

𝑟 = √(1 − 2)2 + (3 − 5)2 = √(−1)2 + (−2)2 = √5

𝑟2 = 5

Center of Circle = (2,5), therefore the equation for the circle in question is
(𝑥 − 2)2 + (𝑦 − 5 )2 = 5

After expanding the terms, we get the following

𝑥 2 − 2(2𝑥) + 4 + 𝑦 2 − 2(5𝑦) + 25 = 5
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4 + 𝑦 2 − 10𝑦 + 25 = 5
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 − 4𝑥 − 10𝑦 + 24 = 0

(ii) Length of Line AC is 𝑑 = √(3 − 2)2 + (4 − 5)2 = √2

Since √2 < √5, Point A lies inside the circle

Length of Line BC is 𝑑 = √(0 − 2)2 + (6 − 5)2 = √4 + 1 = √5

Since √5 = √5 Point B Lies on the circle.
Solving simultaneous equations involving a straight-line intersecting a circle.

4. Solve the following simultaneous equation.

𝑥 − 4𝑦 + 16 = 0 (Equation 1)
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 − 4𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 5 = 0 (Equation 2)

𝑥 = 4𝑦 − 16 (Equation 1A)

Substitute Equation 1A into Equation 2

(4𝑦 − 16)2 + 𝑦 2 − 4𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 5 = 0
16𝑦 2 − 2(16)(4𝑦) + 162 ∓ 𝑦 2 − 4(4𝑦 − 16) − 6𝑦 + 5 = 0
16𝑦 2 − 128𝑦 + 256 + 𝑦 2 − 16𝑦 + 64 − 6𝑦 + 5 = 0
17𝑦 2 − 150𝑦 + 325 = 0

Using quadratic formula, we get the following values for 𝑦

65
𝑦= OR 𝑦 = 5
17

Substitute both values into Equation 1A, we get the following values for 𝑥

65
𝑥 = 4 ( ) − 16 OR 𝑥 = 4(5) − 16
17

12
𝑥=− OR 𝑥 = 4
17

5. Finding a range of value for which a line intersect, is a tangent to or doesn’t intersect
a circle.

The line 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 𝑘, where 𝑘 is a constant, is a tangent to the circle

𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 4𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 8 = 0. Find the possible values of 𝑘 and the corresponding points
of contact for each value of 𝑘.

Equation 1: 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 𝑘
Equation 2: 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 4𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 8 = 0

Substitute Equation 1 into Equation 2

𝑥 2 + (2𝑥 + 𝑘 )2 + 4𝑥 − 6(2𝑥 + 𝑘 ) + 8 = 0
𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 2 + 2(2𝑥)(𝑘 ) + 𝑘 2 + 4𝑥 − 12𝑥 − 6𝑘 + 8 = 0
Rearrange the equation and we get the following
5𝑥 2 + 4𝑘𝑥 + 𝑘 2 + 4𝑥 − 12 − 6𝑘 + 8 = 0
5𝑥 2 + 4𝑘𝑥 − 8𝑥 + 𝑘 2 − 6𝑘 + 8 = 0

Note that the general form of a quadratic equation is 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0

5𝑥 2 + (4𝑘 − 8)𝑥 + (𝑘 2 − 6𝑘 + 8) = 0

Since the question demands a set of lines that is tangent to the circle, we can use the
rule of discriminant we learnt previously in the quadratic equation topic where a line
tangent to a circle would also produce a discriminant of 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (4𝑘 − 8)2 − 4(5)(𝑘 2 − 6𝑘 + 8)

= 16𝑘 2 − 2(4)(8)𝑘 + 64 − 20(𝑘 2 − 6𝑘 + 8)
= 16𝑘 2 − 64𝑘 + 64 − 20𝑘 2 + 120𝑘 − 160
= −4𝑘 2 + 56𝑘 − 96

−4𝑘 2 + 56𝑘 − 96 = 0

Using the quadratic formula, we get the following values for 𝑘

𝑘 = 2 OR 𝑘 = 12

Equation for both lines that are tangent to the circle are therefore
𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 12 and 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 2
 Title Trigonometric Identities & Formula
Author
Date 12/9/2023
Assumptions: This article assumes you have already studied basic trigonometry in
Elementary Mathematics.
Converting Between Degrees and Radians
𝜋
Degree → Radian: Multiply Angle by
180

180
Radian → Degree: Multiply Angle by
𝜋

Let 𝑟 be the hypotenuse side of the right-angled triangle, 𝑥 be the adjacent side and 𝑦
be the opposite side.

Basic Trigonometric Functions and Ratio Reciprocal Trigonometric Functions

𝑂𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑦 1 𝑟
sin(𝜃) = = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐 (𝜃) = =
𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑟 sin(𝜃) 𝑦

𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑥 1 𝑟
cos(𝜃) = = sec(𝜃) = =
𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑟 cos(𝜃 ) 𝑥

𝑂𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑦 1 𝑥
tan(𝜃) = = cot(𝜃) = =
𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑥 tan(𝜃 ) 𝑦

Trigonometric Identities Involving division of one trigonometric function by another

function
sin(𝜃)
tan(𝜃) =
cos(θ)
cos(𝜃)
cot(𝜃) =
sin(𝜃)

Pythagorean Identities
sin2 (𝜃) + cos2 (𝜃 ) = 1
tan2 (𝜃) + 1 = sec 2 (𝜃)
cot 2 (𝜃) + 1 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 (𝜃)
 Compound Angle Formulae
sin(𝐴 ± 𝐵) = sin(𝐴) cos(𝐵) ± cos(𝐴) sin(𝐵)
cos(𝐴 ± 𝐵) = cos(𝐴) cos(𝐵) ∓ sin(𝐴) sin(𝐵)
tan(𝐴) ± tan(𝐵)
tan(𝐴 ± 𝐵) =
1 ∓ tan(𝐴) tan(𝐵)

Double Angle Formulae

sin(2𝐴) = 2 sin(𝐴) cos(𝐴)
cos(2𝐴) = 1 − 2 sin2 (𝐴)
2 tan (𝐴)
tan(2𝐴) =
1 − tan2 (𝐴)

R-Formulae
𝑎 sin 𝜃 ± 𝑏 cos 𝜃 = 𝑅 sin(𝜃 ± 𝛼)
𝑎 cos 𝜃 ± 𝑏 sin 𝜃 = 𝑅 cos(𝜃 ∓ 𝛼)
𝑅 = √𝑎 2 + 𝑏 2

𝑏
𝛼 = tan−1 where 𝑎, 𝑏 > 0
𝑎
𝛼 is an acute angle

Only sin(𝜃) All Positive

Positive (Quadrant
(Quadrant 1)
2)

Only Only
tan(𝜃) is cos(𝜃) is
positive positive

(Quadrant (Quadrant
3) 4)

The above diagram is also called the ASTC Diagram.

Concept of Reference Angle
Reference angle refers to trigonometric functional value of any arbitrary angle
expressed as an acute angle, The reference angle of a given angle 𝜃 is the positive acute
angle between the x-axis and the terminal side of 𝜃.

Solutions involving trigonometric functions can be found using the following steps:
1. Use ASTC diagram to determine the quadrant in which angle 𝜃 is in
2. Find the reference angle 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓
3. The value of 𝜃 is as follows:
Quadrant In Degrees In Radians
1 𝜃 = 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓 𝜃 = 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓
2 𝜃 = 180° − 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓 𝜃 = 𝜋 − 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓
3 𝜃 = 180° + 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓 𝜃 = 𝜋 + 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓
4 𝜃 = 360° − 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓 𝜃 = 2𝜋 − 𝜃𝑟𝑒𝑓

Typical approach to dealing with trigonometric equations.

Step 1. (If necessary) Rewrite the equation so to ensure the trigonometric equation is
expressed in terms of a single trigonometric functions using trigonometric identities.

Step 2. (If necessary): If there is a need, substitute the trigonometric function using a
letter and obtain the value of trigonometric functions through algebraic methods. i.e.
(Quadratic Formula)

Step 3. Use inverse trigonometric function to obtain value of 𝜃 after all trigonometric
functions are combined together into a single function and use ASTC diagram to
determine other possible value of 𝜃.
Question 1.
Solve 2 sin2 𝑥 + sin 𝑥 − 1 = 0 for 0° ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 360°

Substitute 𝑢 = sin 𝑥

And we get the following equation

2𝑢2 + 𝑢 − 1 = 0

Using quadratic formula, which we will not elaborate here,

We get the following
 1
𝑢 = 𝑂𝑅 𝑢 = −1
2
𝑥 = 30° or 𝑥 = −90°

Using ASTC, we apply the formula for finding angle in quadrant 2

𝑥 = 180° − 30 = 150 or 𝑥 = 180 − (−90) = 270°

Question 2.
Solve 2 cos2 𝑥 + cos 𝑥 = 3 for between 0° to 360° (both inclusive)

Substitute 𝑢 = cos 𝑥
2𝑢2 + 𝑢 = 3
2𝑢2 + 𝑢 − 3 = 0

𝑢 = 1 Or 𝑢 = −1.5 (Rejected, invalid input)

𝑥 = 0°

Using ASTC, we deduce cosine is positive at the 4th quadrant and therefore
𝑥 = 360° − 0° = 360°

Question 3.
sec 2 𝑥 + 13 = 9 tan 𝑥

Using identity: 1 + tan2 𝑥 = sec 2 𝑥

1 + tan2 𝑥 + 13 = 9 tan 𝑥
14 + tan2 𝑥 = 9 tan 𝑥

Rearranging we get the following

tan2 𝑥 − 9 tan 𝑥 + 14 = 0.

Substitute 𝑢 = tan 𝑥
𝑢2 − 9𝑢 + 14 = 0
𝑢 = 7 or 𝑢 = 2

𝑥 = 81.8699° or 𝑥 = 63.4349°
Since tan 𝜃 is positive on the 3rd quadrant, we apply the formula for quadrant 3 and get
the following:
𝑥 = 180° + 81.8699° = 261.8699° OR 𝑥 = 180 + 63.435° = 243.4349°

Question 4
Solve 12 cos2 𝑥 + 5 sin 𝑥 − 10 = 0 for 0° ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 360°

Using identity: sin2 𝜃 + cos2 𝜃 = 1

The above identity can be rewritten as: 1 − sin2 𝜃 = cos2 𝜃

Substitute the rewritten identity into the equation above, we get:

12(1 − sin2 𝑥) + 5 sin 𝑥 − 10 = 0
12 − 12 sin2 𝑥 + 5 sin 𝑥 − 10 = 0
2 − 12 sin2 𝑥 + 5 sin 𝑥 = 0
−12 sin2 𝑥 + 5 sin 𝑥 + 2 = 0

Substitute 𝑢 = sin 𝑥 to get the following equation

−12𝑢2 + 5𝑢 + 2 = 0
2 1
𝑢 = 𝑂𝑅 𝑢 = −
3 4

𝑥 = 41.8103° OR 𝑥 = −14.4775°

𝑥 = −14.478 is located at the fourth quadrant and is to be rewritten as 360 −

14.4775° = 345.5225°

Since sin 𝜃 is positive on the 2nd quadrant, we use the formula for the second quadrant
to deduce the value of 𝑥

𝑥 = 180° − 41.810° = 138.190°

𝑥 = 180° − (−14.478°) = 194.478°

Proving of trigonometric identities

In this section, we will be talking about how to prove a trigonometric identity.
Typically, students will be given an identity and as a student, you have to prove the left-
hand-side of a trigonometric identity is exactly equal to the right-hand-side of that same
identity, while the idea is rather simple, there is no standard procedures that applies to
all and each trigonometric identity is to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
Question 5
Prove that the following trigonometric identity is true
sec 4 𝐴 − sec 2 𝐴 = tan4 𝐴 + tan2 𝐴
Using identity: 1 + tan2 𝜃 = sec 2 𝜃 and substituting in the left-hand side of the identity,
we get the following:

(1 + tan2 𝐴)2 − (1 + tan2 𝐴) = tan4 𝐴 + tan2 𝐴

(12 + 2(1) tan2 𝐴 + tan4 𝐴) − (1 + tan2 𝐴) = tan4 𝐴 + tan2 𝐴
1 + 2 tan2 𝐴 + tan4 𝐴 − 1 − tan2 𝐴 = tan4 𝐴 + tan2 𝐴
2 tan2 𝐴 − tan2 𝐴 + tan4 𝐴 = tan4 𝐴 + tan2 𝐴
tan2 𝐴 + tan4 𝐴 = tan4 𝐴 + tan2 𝐴
(Since LHS = RHS, the identity is proven)

Question 6
Prove the following trigonometric identity
1
1+ = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝜃
tan2 𝜃

Using identity: 1 + cot 2 𝜃 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝜃

1
To be rewritten as 1 + = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝜃
tan2 𝜃

1 1
1+ = 1 +
(tan2 𝜃) (tan2 𝜃)

Since LHS = RHS, the identity is proven

Use of Compound Angle Formula

Question 7
3 1
It is given that A and B are acute angles such that tan 𝐴 = and tan 𝐵 = . Without
4 7
using a calculator, find the values of angle 𝐴 + 𝐵.
Using formula as follows:
tan(𝐴) ± tan(𝐵)
tan(𝐴 ± 𝐵) =
1 ∓ tan(𝐴) tan(𝐵)

Substituting tan 𝐴 𝑎𝑛𝑑 tan 𝐵 with specified values in the question, we get the following

3 1
+
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 4 7 = 1
3 1
1− ( )
4 7
𝐴 + 𝐵 = 45°

Question 8
3 12
Given that sin 𝐴 = and cos 𝐵 = and that 𝐴 and 𝐵 are in the first quadrant.
5 13
Find, without solving for the angles
(a) sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) (b) cos(𝐴 + 𝐵)

8(a)
Using formula
sin(𝐴 ± 𝐵) = sin(𝐴) cos(𝐵) ± cos(𝐴) sin(𝐵) while we substitute the values in the
formula with values mentioned in the question, we get the following:

3 12
sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) = ( ) + cos 𝐴 sin 𝐵
5 13

To find the value of cos 𝐴, we can apply Pythagoras Theorem and obtain the following
4
value, which is
5

To find the value of sin 𝐵, we can apply Pythagoras Theorem and obtain the following
5
value, which is
13

Substituting the above value into cos 𝐴 sin 𝐵 , we get the following
3 12 4 5 56
sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) = ( ) + ( ) =
5 13 5 13 65

8(b)
Using formula
cos(𝐴 ± 𝐵) = cos(𝐴) cos(𝐵) ∓ sin(𝐴) sin(𝐵)

4 12 3 5 33
cos(𝐴 + 𝐵) = ( )− ( )=
5 13 5 13 65
Question 9
7 3
If sin 𝐴 = and cos 𝐵 = − , where A and B are obtuse angles, find the value of
25 5
sin(𝐴 + 𝐵)
r=25
Illustration of A, as obtuse 7
angle in second quadrant
-24

r=5
Illustration of B, as obtuse 4
angle in second quadrant

-3

Using formula
sin(𝐴 ± 𝐵) = sin(𝐴) cos(𝐵) ± cos(𝐴) sin(𝐵)

7
sin 𝐴 =
25

3
cos 𝐵 = −
5

24
cos 𝐴 = −
25

4
sin 𝐵 =
5

Multiply according to the formula, we get the following

7 3 24 4 117
(− ) + (− ) ( ) = −
25 5 25 5 125
Question 10
3 5
If cos 𝛼 = − and sin 𝛽 = and 𝛼 is a third quadrant angle and 𝛽 is a first quadrant
5 8
angle. Find, without solving for the angles:
(a) sin(𝛼 − 𝛽)
(b) cos(𝛼 + 𝛽)
(c) tan(𝛼 + 𝛽)
𝛼

-3

Illustration of angle 𝛼 in
-4
the 3rd quadrant
5

Illustration of angle 𝛽 in
the 1st quadrant
8

√39
10(a)
Using identity
sin(𝐴 ± 𝐵) = sin(𝐴) cos(𝐵) ± cos(𝐴) sin(𝐵)
Which rewritten in terms of 𝛼 and 𝛽 looks like the following in context of this question
sin(𝛼 − 𝛽) = sin 𝛼 cos 𝛽 − cos 𝛼 sin 𝛽
4 √39 3 5
= (− ) ( ) − (− ) ( ) = −0.249
5 8 5 8

10(b)
Using identity cos(𝐴 ± 𝐵) = cos(𝐴) cos(𝐵) ∓ sin(𝐴) sin(𝐵)
Which rewritten in terms of 𝛼 and 𝛽 looks like the following in context of this question
cos(𝛼 + 𝛽) = cos 𝛼 cos 𝛽 − sin 𝛼 sin 𝛽

3 √39 4 5
= (− ) ( ) − (− ) ( ) = −0.0316
5 8 5 8

10(c)
Using identity
tan(𝐴) ± tan(𝐵)
tan(𝐴 ± 𝐵) =
1 ∓ tan(𝐴) tan(𝐵)
Which rewritten in terms of 𝛼 and 𝛽 looks like the following in context of this question
tan 𝛼 + tan 𝛽
tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) =
1 − tan 𝛼 tan 𝛽

−4 5
( )+( )
−3 √39
= = −31.6
−4 5
1 − ( )( )
−3 √39

Use of double angle formula

Question 11
8
If 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃 = and 𝜃 is an obtuse angle, find the values of the following using the double
17
angle formula.
(a) sin 2𝜃 (b) cos 2𝜃 (c) tan 2𝜃

𝜃 is an obtuse angle and therefore shown in the 17

diagram sketch on the right to be in quadrant 2. 8

-15
11(a)
Using identity sin(2𝐴) = 2 sin(𝐴) cos(𝐴)

sin 2𝜃 = 2 sin 𝜃 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃

8 15 240
= 2( ) (− ) = −
17 17 289

11(b)
Using identity cos(2𝐴) = 1 − 2 sin2 (𝐴)
cos 2𝜃 = 1 − 2 sin2 𝜃

8 2 161
1 − 2( ) =
17 289

11(c)
Using identity
2 tan(𝐴)
tan(2𝐴) =
1 − tan2 (𝐴)

2 tan 𝜃
tan 2𝜃 =
1 − tan2 (𝜃)

8
2( )
= −15
8 2
1−( )
−15

240
=−
161
Use of R-Formula
Question 12
Solve 7 cos 𝑥 − 2 sin 𝑥 = 1 for between 0° and 360°
Using identity 𝑎 cos 𝜃 ± 𝑏 sin 𝜃 = 𝑅 cos(𝜃 ∓ 𝛼)

2
𝑅 = √72 + 22 = √53 tan 𝛼 =
7
−1 2
𝛼 = tan ( ) = 15.9454
7

7 cos 𝑥 − 2 sin 𝑥 = 1
√53 cos(𝑥 + 15.9454°) = 1
1
cos(𝑥 + 15.9454°) =
√53

Condition: 0° ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 360°

∴ 15.9454° ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 375.9454°

Since cos(𝑥) > 0, it exists in quadrant 1 as well as quadrant 4.

1
Let cos 𝛼 =
√53

1
𝛼 = cos −1 ( ) = 82.1049°
√53
2 1 2 1
𝑥 + tan−1 ( ) = cos −1 ( ) OR 𝑥 + tan−1 ( ) = 360 − cos −1 ( )
7 √53 7 √53

𝑥 + 15.9454° = 82.1049 OR 𝑥 + 15.9454° = 277.8951°

𝑥 = 66.1595° OR 𝑥 = 261.9497°
 Title Differentiation of Algebraic Functions
Editor
Date 1/4/2023

This topic is about basic differentiation on algebraic functions specifically. The following
concepts are covered in this topic:

Basic Overview of Differentiation

➢ Reason to study this topic
➢ Notation guide

Basic Rules of Differentiation on Algebraic Functions

➢ Power Rule
➢ Sum Rule
➢ Difference Rule
➢ Product Rule
➢ Quotient Rule
➢ Chain Rule
Brief Overview of Differentiation (And Calculus in General)

Without going into too much detail about the history of calculus, calculus is a branch of
Mathematics introduced to study about change. Differentiation is a sub-branch that
deals with the gradient of a given function at every point on a curve.
Calculus is very important in the following field for the following reasons
• Computing – To study time complexity of programming algorithms and do
various data analytics and estimation
• Physics – Majority of physical laws are derived with help of calculus (Newton
used calculus to research how physics works and used that in his later works)
• Engineering – Engineering is closely related to physics as Engineering students
study physics as their basic module before they carry on with intermediate
modules
• Chemistry – Study speed of chemical reactions

And the list can go on and on

Notation Meaning Explanation Notes
𝐹 (𝑥 ) Function of 𝑥 I also use 𝑓 (𝑥), 𝑔(𝑥)
in certain situations
𝐹 ′ (𝑥 ) First Derivative of I also use 𝑓 ′ (𝑥),
𝑓(𝑥) 𝑔′(𝑥) in certain
situations
𝐹 ′′ (𝑥) Second Derivative of First derivative of 𝑓′(𝑥) I also use
𝑓 (𝑥 ) 𝑓 ′′ (𝑥), 𝑔′′ (𝑥) in
certain situations
𝑑𝑦
First derivative of 𝑦
𝑑𝑥
with respect to 𝑥
𝑑2 𝑦 Second derivative of 𝑑𝑦
First derivative of
𝑑𝑥 2 𝑑𝑥
𝑦 with respect to 𝑥

Follow the question with regards to notation matters:

If the question mentions a function in the following form:
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 + 𝑎𝑥 𝑛−1 … + 𝑐
When answering the question, use 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) for first derivative and 𝑓 ′′ (𝑥) for second
derivative.
If the question mentions an equation in the following form:
𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 + 𝑎𝑥 𝑛−1 … + 𝑐

𝑑𝑦 𝑑2 𝑦
When answering the question use for first derivative and for second derivative
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 2
Power Rule
Given Function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 𝑛
The derivative of the function is 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1

Question 1.
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝑥
(a) 𝑦 = 𝑥 5
1
(b) 𝑦 = 3
𝑥
(c) 𝑦 = 3𝑥 4
(d) 𝑦 = 𝜋

1(a)
𝑦 = 𝑥5
𝑑𝑦
Differentiate using power rule 𝑥 5 = 5𝑥 4
𝑑𝑥

1(b)
1
𝑦=
𝑥3

Convert to index notation: 𝑦 = 𝑥 −3

𝑑𝑦 −3
Differentiate using power rule: 𝑥 = −3𝑥 −4
𝑑𝑥

1(c)
𝑦 = 3𝑥 4
𝑑𝑦
Differentiate using power rule: 3𝑥 4 = 12𝑥 3
𝑑𝑥

1(d)
𝑦=𝜋
𝑑𝑦
Derivative of any constant value is 0: 𝜋=0
𝑑𝑥
Sum Rule
Given Function 𝐹(𝑥) = 𝑓 (𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥)
The derivative is 𝐹 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) + 𝑔′ (𝑥)

I know in notation form it is rather complicated so I am going to explain it in relatively

simple terms.

Imagine you have the following function

𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 + 𝑏𝑥 𝑚

To find the derivative, you must first split the function into two sections:

First Section Second Section

𝑛
𝑎𝑥 𝑏𝑥 𝑚

Differentiate both separately to get

Derivative of first section Derivative of second section
𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 𝑏𝑚𝑥 𝑚−1

Combine them back together to get your “overall” derivative

𝑓′(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 + 𝑏𝑚𝑥 𝑚−1

If you still don’t get it, take note of the following examples, often seeing how a real
question work out clears most of your doubts.
Question 2
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝑥
(a) 𝑦 = 6𝑥 7 + 2𝑥 3
1
(b) 𝑦 = 15𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 −2 +
𝑥
2(a)
Split the equation into two sections:
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑
6𝑥 7 + 2𝑥 3 = 6𝑥 7 + 2𝑥 3
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Differentiate the components one by one to get

𝑑 𝑑
6𝑥 7 = 42𝑥 6 2𝑥 3 = 6𝑥 2
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Combine them back together to get the following

𝑑𝑦
= 42𝑥 6 + 6𝑥 2
𝑑𝑥

2(b)
Convert all to index notation
15𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 −2 + 𝑥 −1

Split equation into three sections

𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑 𝑑
15𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 −2 + 𝑥 −1 = 15𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 −2 + 𝑥 −1
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Differentiate the components one by one to get

𝑑 𝑑 𝑑
15𝑥 2 = 30𝑥 4𝑥 −2 = −8𝑥 −3 𝑥 −1 = −1(𝑥)−2 = −𝑥 −2
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Combine them to get

𝑑𝑦
= 30𝑥 − 8𝑥 −3 − 𝑥 −2
𝑑𝑥
Difference Rule
Given Function 𝐹 (𝑥) = 𝑓 (𝑥) − 𝑔(𝑥)
The derivative is 𝐹 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) − 𝑔′(𝑥)

Imagine the following function:

𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 − 𝑏𝑥 𝑚
To find the derivative split the function into 2 sections
First Section Second Section
𝑛
𝑎𝑥 −𝑏𝑥 𝑚

Differentiate both section separately to get

𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 −𝑏𝑚𝑥 𝑚−1

Combine them back together to get your “overall” derivative

𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 − 𝑏𝑚𝑥 𝑚−1

Question 3:
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝑥
(a) 𝑦 = 5𝑥 7 − 2𝑥 3 − 7
(b) 𝑦 = 3𝑥 4 − 4𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 −4

3(a)
Split equation into 3 sections to get
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑 𝑑
5𝑥 7 − 2𝑥 3 − 7 = 5𝑥 7 − 2𝑥 3 − 7
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Differentiate the components one by one to get

𝑑 𝑑 𝑑
5𝑥 7 = 35𝑥 6 − 2𝑥 3 = −6𝑥 2 7=0
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Combine them back and you should get the following

𝑑𝑦
= 35𝑥 6 − 6𝑥 2
𝑑𝑥
3(b)
Split equation into 3 sections to get
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑 𝑑
3𝑥 4 − 4𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 −4 = 3𝑥 4 − 4𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 −4
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Differentiate components one by one to get

𝑑 𝑑 𝑑
3𝑥 4 = 12𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 2 = −8𝑥 5𝑥 −4 = −20𝑥 −5
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

Combine them back to get the following:

𝑑𝑦
= 12𝑥 3 − 8𝑥 − 20𝑥 −5
𝑑𝑥
Product Rule
Given Function 𝐹 (𝑥) = 𝑓 (𝑥) ∙ 𝑔(𝑥)
The derivative is 𝐹 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) ∙ 𝑔(𝑥) + 𝑓 (𝑥) ∙ 𝑔′(𝑥)

Imagine the following function

𝑓 (𝑥) = (𝑎𝑥 𝑛 )(𝑏𝑥 𝑚 )
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 (𝑏𝑥 𝑚 ) + 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 (𝑏𝑚𝑥 𝑚−1 )

Question 4
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝑥
(a) 𝑦 = (𝑥 2 + 15)(6𝑥 4 + 9)
(b) 𝑦 = (5𝑥 9 + 6𝑥 − 5)(2𝑥 2 + 6)

4(a)
𝑦 = (𝑥 2 + 15)(6𝑥 4 + 9)
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 2 𝑑
= (𝑥 + 15) ∙ (6𝑥 4 + 9) + (6𝑥 4 + 9) ∙ (𝑥 2 + 15)
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦
= 2𝑥 (6𝑥 4 + 9) + 24𝑥 3 (𝑥 2 + 15)
𝑑𝑥
= 12𝑥 5 + 18𝑥 + 24𝑥 5 + 360𝑥 3
= 36𝑥 5 + 360𝑥 3 + 18𝑥

4(b)
𝑦 = (5𝑥 9 + 6𝑥 − 5)(2𝑥 2 + 6)
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 𝑑
= (5𝑥 9 + 6𝑥 − 5) ∙ (2𝑥 2 + 6) + (2𝑥 2 + 6) ∙ (5𝑥 9 + 6𝑥 − 5)
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦
= (45𝑥 8 + 6)(2𝑥 2 + 6) + (4𝑥)(5𝑥 9 + 6𝑥 − 5)
𝑑𝑥

= (90𝑥 10 + 12𝑥 2 + 270𝑥 8 + 36) + (20𝑥 10 + 24𝑥 2 − 20𝑥)

= 110𝑥 10 + 270𝑥 8 + 36𝑥 2 − 20𝑥 + 36
Quotient Rule
𝑓(𝑥)
Given function 𝐹 (𝑥) =
𝑔(𝑥)

𝑓′ (𝑥)∙𝑔(𝑥)−𝑔′ (𝑥)∙𝑓(𝑥)
The derivative is 𝐹 ′ (𝑥) = [𝑔(𝑥)]2

Imagine you have the following function

𝑎𝑥 𝑛
𝑓 (𝑥 ) =
𝑏𝑥 𝑛

𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 (𝑏𝑥 𝑛 ) − 𝑏𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 (𝑎𝑥 𝑛 )

𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) =
(𝑏𝑥 𝑛 )2
Question 5
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝑥
2𝑥 5 +3𝑥 2 −7
(a) 𝑦 =
(2𝑥+6)

2𝑥 5 + 3𝑥 2 − 7
𝑦=
(2𝑥 + 6)

𝑑 𝑑
𝑑𝑦 [ (2𝑥 5 +3𝑥 2 −7)∙(2𝑥+6)− (2𝑥+6)∙(2𝑥 5 +3𝑥 2 −7)]
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
= (2𝑥+6)2
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦 [(10𝑥 4 +6𝑥)(2𝑥+6)−2(2𝑥 5 +3𝑥 2 −7)]

= (2𝑥+6)2
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦 20𝑥 5 +12𝑥 2 +60𝑥 4 +36𝑥−4𝑥 5 −6𝑥 2 +14

= (2𝑥+6)2
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦 16𝑥 5 +6𝑥 2 +60𝑥 4 +36𝑥+14

= (2𝑥+6)2
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦 16𝑥 5 +60𝑥 4 +6𝑥 2 +36𝑥+14

= 2
𝑑𝑥 (2(𝑥+3))

𝑑𝑦 16𝑥 5 +60𝑥 4 +6𝑥 2 +36𝑥+14

=
𝑑𝑥 4(𝑥+3)2

𝑑𝑦 8𝑥 5 +30𝑥 4 +3𝑥 2 +18𝑥+7

=
𝑑𝑥 2(𝑥+3)2
Chain Rule
Given function
𝐹 (𝑥) = [𝑓 (𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥)]𝑐 {where 𝑐 is a constant.}

The derivative is
𝐹 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑐 [𝑓 (𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥)]𝑐−1 ∙ [𝑓′(𝑥) + 𝑔′ (𝑥)]

Imagine you have the following function

𝑓 (𝑥) = (𝑎𝑥 𝑛 + 𝑏𝑥 𝑚 )𝑐
The derivative is
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑐 (𝑎𝑥 𝑛 + 𝑏𝑥 𝑚 )𝑐−1 [𝑎𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1 + 𝑏𝑚𝑥 𝑛−1 ]

Question 6
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝒙
(a) 𝑦 = (2𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 2 + 2𝑥)7

𝑦 = (2𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 2 + 2𝑥)7

𝑑𝑦
= 7(2𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 2 + 2𝑥)7−1 ∙ (6𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + 2)
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦
= 7(2𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 2 + 2𝑥)6 (6𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + 2)
𝑑𝑥
Tips and Tricks Below
Question 7
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝑥
1
𝑦=
(𝑥 + 9)5

Question: Should I use chain rule or quotient rule for this question?
Answer: Chain rule, it is easier to use chain rule as demonstrated below.

Reason Below:
By Chain Rule (3 Steps)

1
𝑦 = (𝑥+9)5 = (𝑥 + 9)−5

𝑑𝑦
= −5(𝑥 + 9)−6 (1)
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦
= −5(𝑥 + 9)−6
𝑑𝑥

By Quotient Rule (4 Steps):

1
𝑦 = (𝑥+9)5

𝑑𝑦 [0(𝑥+9)5 −5(𝑥+9)5−1 (1)]

= (𝑥+9)5(2)
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦 −5(𝑥+9)4
= (𝑥+9)10
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦
= −5(𝑥 + 9)4−10
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦
= −5(𝑥 + 9)−6
𝑑𝑥

Conclusion: If the numerator = 𝟏 and the denominator is in the form of (𝒂𝒙𝒏 +

𝒃𝒙𝒎 … + 𝒄), you just have to convert the expression or equation into index notation
and use chain rule to differentiate. (This only applies when the numerator = 1.)
 Title Differentiation of Exponential and Logarithmic Function
Author Lim Wang Sheng, School of Information Technology, Nanyang Polytechnic
[CCA: NYP Mentoring Club]
Date 20/12/2018
This article assumes you know and understand the notation for differentiation.
Applicable to
• Singapore-Cambridge Secondary School GCE ‘O’ Level Additional Mathematics
• Nanyang Polytechnic, School of Chemical and Life Sciences – Mathematics for Life
Science Module
• Nanyang Polytechnic, School of Engineering – Engineering Mathematics 1A
Module
• Singapore-Cambridge Junior College GCE ‘A’ Level H1 Mathematics
• Singapore-Cambridge Junior College GCE ‘A’ Level H2 Mathematics (Bridging
Only)

Chain Rule (In General)

Given 𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑔(ℎ(𝑥))

The derivative is given as 𝑓′(𝑥) = [𝑔′ (𝑥)][ℎ′ (𝑥)]

General Cases for Derivatives of Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

[Derived by Applying Chain Rule to the Specific Cases Mentioned Further Below.]
Function Derivatives
𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑔(𝑥) 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = [𝑎 𝑔(𝑥) ln(𝑎)]𝑔′ (𝑥)
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑐𝑒 𝑔(𝑥) 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = [𝑐𝑒 𝑔(𝑥) ]𝑔′ (𝑥)

Where 𝑐 is a coefficient
of 𝑒 𝑔(𝑥) , with
𝑒 representing Euler’s
Number.
𝑓 (𝑥) = ln(𝑔(𝑥)) 1 𝑔′ (𝑥)
𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) = [𝑔′ (𝑥)] =
𝑔(𝑥) 𝑔(𝑥)

Specific Case Derivatives

𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑒 𝑥 𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) = 𝑒 𝑥
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑐𝑒 𝑥 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑐𝑒 𝑥
𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑎 𝑥 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑎 𝑥 ln(𝑎)
1
𝑓 (𝑥) = ln(𝑥) 𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) =
𝑥
Question 1.
Differentiate the following with respect to 𝑥
(a) 𝑒 6𝑥
(b) 7𝑒 2𝑥+6
(c) 57𝑥
(d) 32𝑥+6
(e) ln(6𝑥 2 + 5𝑥)

Question 1
𝑑
(a) 𝑒 6𝑥
𝑑𝑥
Rewrite as
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑒 6𝑥

𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑒 6𝑥 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 𝑒 6𝑥
ℎ(𝑥) = 6𝑥 ℎ ′ (𝑥 ) = 6
𝑓′(𝑥) = 6𝑒 6𝑥

𝑑
= 6𝑒 6𝑥
𝑑𝑥

𝑑
(b) 7𝑒 2𝑥+6
𝑑𝑥
Rewrite as
𝑓 (𝑥) = 7𝑒 2𝑥+6

𝑔(𝑥) = 7𝑒 2𝑥+6 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 7𝑒 2𝑥+6

ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 6 ℎ ′ (𝑥 ) = 2
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 14𝑒 2𝑥+6

𝑑
= 14𝑒 2𝑥+6
𝑑𝑥
 𝑑
(c) 57𝑥
𝑑𝑥

Rewrite as
𝑓 (𝑥) = 57𝑥

𝑔(𝑥) = 57𝑥 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 57𝑥 ln(5)

ℎ(𝑥) = 7𝑥 ℎ ′ (𝑥 ) = 7
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 7 (57𝑥 ) ln(5)

𝑑
= 7(57𝑥 ) ln(5)
𝑑𝑥

(d)
𝑑 2𝑥+6
3
𝑑𝑥

Rewritten as 𝑓 (𝑥) = 32𝑥+6

𝑔(𝑥) = 32𝑥+6 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 32𝑥+6 ln(3)
ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 6 ℎ ′ (𝑥 ) = 2

𝑑
= 2(32𝑥+6 ln(3))
𝑑𝑥
(e)
d
ln(6𝑥 2 + 5𝑥)
dx

For students who can remember the formula for differentiation of ln[𝑔(𝑥)], go ahead
and use the formula, unfortunately, this might not be the case for all students and I still
want to demonstrate the more “tedious” approach. However, please note that the more
tedious method requires less memory work.

Rewritten as:

𝑓 (𝑥) = ln(6𝑥 2 + 5𝑥)

1
𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) = (12𝑥 + 5)
6𝑥 2 +5𝑥

(12𝑥+5) 𝑑 12𝑥+5
𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) = =
6𝑥 2 +5𝑥 𝑑𝑥 6𝑥 2 +5𝑥
 Title Differentiation of Trigonometric Functions
Author AprilDolphin
Date 15/9/2024
Notice Questions all taken from books

Chain Rule in General

Given a function 𝐹 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑔(𝑥))
The derivative is given by 𝐹 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) 𝑔′(𝑥)

Rules of differentiation of trigonometric functions

Function Derivatives
𝑓 (𝑥) = sin(𝑥) 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = cos(𝑥)
𝑓 (𝑥) = cos(𝑥) 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = − sin(𝑥)
𝑓 (𝑥) = tan(𝑥) 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = sec 2 (𝑥)

Application of Chain Rule to the above trigonometric functions

Function Derivatives
𝑓 (𝑥) = sin[𝑔(𝑥)] 𝑓′(𝑥) = cos[𝑓(𝑥))] [𝑔′ (𝑥)]
𝑓 (𝑥) = cos[𝑔(𝑥)] 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = − sin[𝑓 (𝑥)] [𝑔′ (𝑥)]
𝑓 (𝑥) = tan [𝑔(𝑥)] 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = sec 2 [𝑓(𝑥)][𝑔′(𝑥)]

Example
Given the following functions, write down the derivative
1. 𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑥 tan(3𝑥)
Using product rule of differentiation, given function of 𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑔(𝑥)ℎ(𝑥), the
derivative is given by 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑔(𝑥)ℎ′ (𝑥) + ℎ(𝑥)𝑔′ (𝑥)

Using chain rule of differentiation, given function of 𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑔[ℎ(𝑥)], the derivative
is given by 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑔′ (𝑥) ℎ′ (𝑥)

Given 𝑔(𝑥) = tan(3𝑥)

The derivative is 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 3 sec 2 (3𝑥)

Given 𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑥 tan(3𝑥)

𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = tan(3𝑥) [1] + 𝑥[3 sec 2 (3𝑥)]
𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = tan(3𝑥) + 3𝑥 sec 2 (3𝑥)
 1+cos(𝑥)
2. 𝑓 (𝑥) =
sin(𝑥)

Using quotient rule of differentiation

𝑓(𝑥)
𝐹(𝑥) =
𝑔(𝑥)

𝑔(𝑥)𝑓 ′ (𝑥) − 𝑓(𝑥)𝑔′ (𝑥)

𝐹 ′ (𝑥) =
[(𝑔(𝑥)]2

sin(𝑥) [− sin(𝑥)] − [1 + cos(𝑥)][cos(𝑥)]

𝑓′(𝑥) =
sin2 (𝑥)

′(
[− sin2 (𝑥) − cos2 (𝑥) − cos(𝑥)]
𝑓 𝑥) =
sin2 (𝑥)

Using trigonometric identity sin2 𝑥 + cos2 𝑥 = 1,

Therefore − sin2 𝑥 − cos2 𝑥 = −1

−1 − cos(𝑥)
𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) =
sin2 (𝑥)

3. 𝑦 = sin (2𝑥 2 + 5)

𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑢
Using chain rule: = ×
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑢 𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦
= cos(2𝑥 2 + 5)
𝑑𝑢

𝑑𝑢
= 4𝑥
𝑑𝑥

𝑑𝑦
= 4𝑥 [(cos(2𝑥 2 + 5)]
𝑑𝑥
Title Differentiation – Applications of Differentiation to Finding Gradient, Tangent
Line of Curves and Normal Line of Curves
Author AprilDolphin
Date 18/11/2024

Properties of Normal Lines and Tangent Lines of Curve

Given that 2 lines are
• Perpendicular to each other in a 2-Dimensional Cartesian Coordinate System
• One line is not perfectly vertical (By perfectly vertical, we imply the gradient is
undefined resulting from division by zero.)
• One line is not perfectly horizontal (By perfectly horizontal, we imply the
gradient is zero.)

And

𝑀1 is the gradient of the first line and 𝑀2 is the gradient of the second line.

(𝑀1 )(𝑀2 ) = −1

Example as shown below, the red line represents 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 2 and the blue line
1
represents 𝑦 = − 𝑥 + 1, multiplying the gradient of both lines will produce −1 as a
2
result as both lines are perpendicular to each other.
Instructions for finding gradient and therefore the tangent line of the curve at the
particular point and normal line intersecting the particular point.
Step 1. Differentiate the function and obtaining the first derivative
Step 2. Substitute the 𝑥-coordinate points into the function’s first derivative to obtain
the gradient of the function at the particular point (the gradient for which we shall
represent it with 𝑚).
Step 3. Given the coordinate at the particular point is (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ), the equation of the
tangent line is 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
Step 4. Given the coordinate at the particular point is (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ), the equation of the
1
normal line is 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = − (𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
𝑚
Example 1.
Find the equations of tangent and normal to the curve 𝑦 = 𝑥 − 2𝑥 2 + 3 at the point
(2, −3).

Step 1.
𝑑𝑦
= 1 − 4𝑥
𝑑𝑥

Step 2.
𝑑𝑦
| = 1 − 4(2) = −7
𝑑𝑥 𝑥=2

Gradient = −7

Step 3.
Since gradient = −7, the value of 𝑚 in 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 is −7

To find the value of 𝑐 , we use the formula 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 )

𝑦 − (−3) = −7(𝑥 − 2)
𝑦 + 3 = −7𝑥 + 14
𝑦 = −7𝑥 + 11

Step 4.
Since the product of gradient of 2 perpendicular line is −1, the gradient of the normal
1 1
line in question is − . Therefore, equation of normal line is, 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = − (𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
𝑚 𝑚

1
𝑦 − (−3) = − (𝑥 − 2)
−7
 1 2
𝑦+3= 𝑥−
7 7

1 2
𝑦= 𝑥−3
7 7

7𝑦 = 𝑥 − 23𝑦
Example 2.
3𝑥−1
Find the equation of the normal to the curve 𝑦 = 2 at the point where 𝑥 = −1.
𝑥
𝑑𝑦
Using quotient rule of differentiation, we find the gradient function, as seen below.
𝑑𝑥

𝑢
𝑦=
𝑣

𝑑𝑢 𝑑𝑣
𝑑𝑦 𝑣 (𝑑𝑥 ) − 𝑢 (𝑑𝑥 )
=
𝑑𝑥 𝑣2

𝑑𝑦 𝑥 2 (3) − 2𝑥(3𝑥 − 1)
=
𝑑𝑥 𝑥4

𝑑𝑦 3𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 2 + 2𝑥
=
𝑑𝑥 𝑥4

𝑑𝑦 −3𝑥 2 + 2𝑥
=
𝑑𝑥 𝑥4

𝑑𝑦 −3𝑥 + 2
=
𝑑𝑥 𝑥3

𝑑𝑦 −3(−1) + 2
|𝑥=−1 = = −5
𝑑𝑥 (−1)3

3𝑥−1
Find 𝑦 −coordinate of the point where 𝑥 = −1, using 𝑦 =
𝑥2

3(−1) − 1
= −4
(−1)2
Finding equation of normal line at (−1, −4)
1
𝑦 − 𝑦1 = − (𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
𝑚

1
𝑦 − (−4) = − (𝑥 − (−1))
−5

1
𝑦+4= (𝑥 + 1 )
5
1 1
𝑦 = 𝑥+ −4
5 5

1 19
𝑦= 𝑥−
5 5

5𝑦 = 𝑥 − 19
 Title Additional Mathematics [‘N’ Levels] and Computing Mathematics
Calculus – Basic Integration and Indefinite Integrals
Author Lim Wang Sheng, School of Information Technology, Nanyang Polytechnic
[CCA: NYP Mentoring Club]
Date 7/4/2018

This document is suitable for students of the following categories

• Nanyang Polytechnic School of Information Technology Students [G1]
• ‘N’ Levels Additional Mathematics Students [G2]

This document is however not useful for students studying in the following fields for the
following reasons
• ‘O’ Level and ‘A’ Level (Trigonometric, Exponential and Logarithmic Function are
not covered in this document)
• Engineering (Trigonometric Function Not Covered)
• Chemistry (Logarithmic and Exponential Function Not Covered)

However, if you haven’t studied additional mathematics before and want exposure to
the topic before entering your course or before you enter Secondary 4, this should give
you the basic concepts of how it works.

The following are covered in this release:

Basic Overview of Integration

• Integration as the reverse of differentiation
• Notation guide
• Indefinite integral

Rules of integration
• Constant Multiple Rule
• Sum Rule
• Difference Rule

***Remember to print page 3 if you need something to refer to while doing your
assignments. This material is not designed in the same way as the differentiation topic
notes I created previously.
Integration as the reverse process of differentiation
As covered in earlier guide, we discussed how differentiation works, the reason why we
study integration is the following reasons:

• There will be situations where finding the “anti-derivative” (AKA integral) is

useful, if you are only given the gradient and ask to find out what is the equation
of the function.
• Further study of integration will also be applied to finding the area under the
graph of the function, using definite integral, which is useful for solving certain
problems in various fields like Physics, Engineering, Chemistry and Information
Technology.

Notation of Indefinite Integral

𝑥 𝑛+1
∫ 𝑥 𝑛 𝑑𝑥 = +𝐶
𝑛+1
“Indefinite Integral of
Function” Symbol Arbitrary Constant

Explanation
Arbitrary Constant: The reason why we must have a “+C” to any indefinite integral is

• Reversing the integration process by differentiating the integral will result in

many possible values of the constants that satisfy the integral, thus a “+𝐶” is
added, to represent “Constant”
Rules of Integration:
Integration of Constant Values
∫ 𝑘 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑘𝑥 + 𝐶

Constant Multiple (Power Function Integration) Rule (Provided 𝒏 ≠ −𝟏):

𝑥 𝑛+1
∫ 𝑥 𝑛 𝑑𝑥 = +𝐶
𝑛+1

𝑥 𝑛+1 𝑘𝑥 𝑛+1
∫ 𝑘𝑥 𝑛 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑘 ∫ 𝑥 𝑛 = 𝑘 ( )+𝐶 = +𝐶
𝑛+1 𝑛+1

(𝑎𝑥+𝑏)𝑛+1
∫(𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)𝑛 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑎(𝑛+1)
+ 𝐶 (Provided 𝑎 ≠ 0 𝐴𝑁𝐷 𝑛 ≠ −1)

Generalized Sum Rule

∫ 𝑘 ∙ 𝑓 (𝑥) + ℎ ∙ 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑘 ∫ 𝑓 (𝑥) + ℎ ∫ 𝑔(𝑥) + 𝐶

Generalized Difference Rule

∫ 𝑘 ∙ 𝑓 (𝑥 ) − ℎ ∙ 𝑔 (𝑥 ) = 𝑘 ∫ 𝑓 (𝑥 ) + ℎ ∫ 𝑔 (𝑥 ) + 𝐶

Generalization of Constant Multiple, Sum and Difference Rule (Provided 𝒏 ≠ −𝟏):

𝑥 𝑛+1 𝑥 𝑛+1 𝑘𝑥 𝑛+1 𝑔𝑥 𝑛+1
∫ 𝑘𝑥 𝑛 ± 𝑔𝑥 𝑚 = 𝑘 ( )± 𝑔( )+𝐶 = ± +𝐶
𝑛+1 𝑛+1 𝑛+1 𝑛+1
 Indefinite Integral
Example 1:
Find the following integrals [Power Function Integration Rule]
(a)∫ 𝑥 6 𝑑𝑥
1
(b)∫ 8 𝑑𝑥
𝑥

𝑥 6+1 𝑥7
1(a) ∫ 𝑥 6 𝑑𝑥 = = +𝐶
6+1 7

1 𝑥 −8+1 𝑥 −7 1
1(b) ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ∫ 𝑥 −8 = = + 𝐶 = − 𝑥 −7 + 𝐶
𝑥8 −8+1 −7 7

Example 2:
Find the following integrals [Integration of Constant Values]

(a) ∫ 15 𝑑𝑥
(b) ∫ 25 𝑑𝑥

2(a) ∫ 15 𝑑𝑥 = 15𝑥 + 𝐶
2(b) ∫ 25 𝑑𝑥 = 25𝑥 + 𝐶

Example 3:
Find the following integrals [Constant-Multiple (Power Function Integration) Rule]
(a) ∫ 2𝑥 5 𝑑𝑥
(b) ∫ 16𝑥 7 𝑑𝑥

3(a) ∫ 2𝑥 5 𝑑𝑥
𝑥 5+1 2𝑥 5+1 2𝑥 6 1
∫ 2𝑥 5 𝑑𝑥 = 2 ∫ 𝑥 5 𝑑𝑥 + 𝐶 = 2 ( )+𝐶 = = + 𝐶 = 𝑥6 + 𝐶
5+1 6 6 3

3(b) ∫ 16𝑥 7 𝑑𝑥
7 7
𝑥 7+1 16𝑥 8
∫ 16𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 16 ∫ 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 16 ( )+𝐶 = + 𝐶 = 2𝑥 8 + 𝐶
7+1 8
Example 4:
Find the following integrals [Generalized Sum Rule]
(a) ∫ 2𝑥 9 + 5𝑥 3 𝑑𝑥
(b) ∫ 9𝑥 7 + 6𝑥 −8 + 12𝑥 + 7 𝑑𝑥

4(a) ∫ 2𝑥 9 + 5𝑥 3 𝑑𝑥
= 2 ∫ 𝑥9 + 5 ∫ 𝑥3
𝑥 9+1 𝑥 3+1
= 2( ) + 5( )+𝐶
9+1 3+1

𝑥 10 𝑥4
= 2( ) + 5( ) + 𝐶
10 4

1 10 5 4
= 𝑥 + 𝑥 +𝐶
5 4

4(b) ∫ 9𝑥 7 + 6𝑥 −8 + 12𝑥 + 7 𝑑𝑥

= 9 ∫ 𝑥 7 + 6 ∫ 𝑥 −8 + 12 ∫ 𝑥 + ∫ 7

𝑥 7+1 𝑥 (−8)+1 𝑥 1+1

= 9( ) + 6[ ] + 12 ( ) + 7𝑥 + 𝐶
7+1 (−8) + 1 1+1

9 8 𝑥 −7 12𝑥 2
= 𝑥 + 6( )+ + 7𝑥 + 𝐶
8 −7 2

9 8 6 −7
= 𝑥 − 𝑥 + 6𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 𝐶
8 7
Example 5
Find the following integrals [Generalized Difference Rule]
2
(a) ∫ 2𝑥 2 − 9𝑥 − 9 − 8 𝑑𝑥
𝑥

5(a)
2
∫ 2𝑥 2 − 9𝑥 − − 8 𝑑𝑥
𝑥9

= 2 ∫ 𝑥 2 − 9 ∫ 𝑥 − 2 ∫ 𝑥 −9 − ∫ 8

𝑥 2+1 𝑥 1+1 𝑥 −9+1

= 2( ) − 9( ) − 2( ) − 8(𝑥) + 𝐶
2+1 1+1 −9 + 1

𝑥3 𝑥2 𝑥 −8
= 2( ) − 9( ) − 2( ) − 8(𝑥 ) + 𝐶
3 2 −8

𝑥3 𝑥2 𝑥 −8
= 2( ) − 9( ) + 2( ) − 8𝑥 + 𝑐
3 2 8

2 9 2
= 𝑥 3 − 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 −8 − 8𝑥 + 𝐶
3 2 8

2 3 9 2 1 −8
𝑥 − 𝑥 + 𝑥 − 8𝑥 + 𝐶
3 2 4
Example 6
Find the following integrals [Generalization of all Rules Mentioned Combined]
(a) ∫ 3𝑥 5 − 6𝑥 4 + 11𝑥 − 16 + 9𝑥 −7 𝑑𝑥

3 ∫ 𝑥 5 − 6 ∫ 𝑥 4 + 11 ∫ 𝑥 − ∫ 16 + 9 ∫ 𝑥 −7

𝑥 5+1 𝑥 4+1 𝑥 1+1 𝑥 −7+1

3( )−6( ) + 11 ( ) − 16(𝑥) + 9 ( )+𝐶 =
5+1 4+1 1+1 −7 + 1

𝑥6 𝑥5 𝑥2 𝑥 −7+1
3( ) − 6 ( ) + 11 ( ) − 16𝑥 + 9 ( )+𝐶 =
6 5 2 −7 + 1

3 6 6 5 11 2 9𝑥 −6
𝑥 − 𝑥 + 𝑥 − 16𝑥 + +𝐶 =
6 5 2 (−6)

1 6 6 5 11 2 9
𝑥 − 𝑥 + 𝑥 − 16𝑥 − 𝑥 −6 + 𝐶 =
2 5 2 6

1 6 6 5 11 2 3
𝑥 − 𝑥 + 𝑥 − 16𝑥 − 𝑥 −6 + 𝐶
2 5 2 2
 Title Integration Leading to Logarithmic Functions and Integration of
Exponential Functions
Author Lim Wang Sheng, School of Information Technology, Nanyang Polytechnic
[CCA: NYP Mentoring Club]
Date 21/12/2018

Applicable to
• JC H2 ‘A’ Level Mathematics (Bridging only) and H1 ‘A’ Level Mathematics
• Nanyang Polytechnic School of Chemical and Life Sciences – Mathematics for Life
Sciences
• Nanyang Polytechnic School of Engineering – Engineering Mathematics 1B
• Institute of Technical Education – Calculus/Mathematics Modules
• Secondary School GCE ‘O’ Level Additional Mathematics

Function Corresponding Integrals

1 1
𝑓 (𝑥 ) = ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ln|𝑥| + 𝐶
𝑥
𝑥

𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑒 𝑥
∫ 𝑒 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑒 𝑥 + 𝐶

𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑒 𝑥
∫ 𝑎𝑒 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑎𝑒 𝑥 + 𝐶

(Generic Cases)
Functions Corresponding Integrals
1 1 1
𝑓 (𝑥 ) = ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = ln|𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏| + 𝐶
𝑎𝑥+𝑏
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 𝑎
𝑎 𝑎
𝑓 (𝑥 ) = ∫ = 𝑎(ln(𝑥)) + 𝐶
𝑥
𝑥

𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑒 𝑎𝑥+𝑏 1 𝑎𝑥+𝑏

∫ 𝑒 𝑎𝑥+𝑏 𝑑𝑥 = (𝑒 )+𝐶
𝑎
Find the following integrals
3
a) ∫ 𝑑𝑥
𝑥

b) ∫ 𝑒 6𝑥+5 𝑑𝑥

c) ∫ 5𝑒 𝑥 𝑑𝑥

1
d) ∫ 𝑑𝑥
9𝑥+5

e) ∫ 𝑒 8𝑥+6

Solutions
3
a) ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = 3(ln(𝑥)) = 3 ln(𝑥) + 𝐶
𝑥

1
b) ∫ 𝑒 6𝑥+5 𝑑𝑥 = (𝑒 6𝑥+5 ) + 𝐶
6

c) ∫ 5𝑒 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 5𝑒 𝑥 + 𝐶

1 1
d) ∫ 𝑑𝑥 = (ln(9𝑥 + 5)) + 𝐶
9𝑥+5 9

1
e) ∫ 𝑒 8𝑥+6 𝑑𝑥 = (𝑒 8𝑥+6 ) + 𝐶
8
 Title Integration of Trigonometric Functions
Author AprilDolphin
Date 16/9/2024
Notice Questions all taken from books

Functions Corresponding Integrals

𝐹 (𝑥) = sin(𝑥) 𝑓 (𝑥) = − cos(𝑥) + 𝑐
𝐹 (𝑥) = cos(𝑥) 𝑓 (𝑥) = sin(𝑥) + 𝑐
𝐹 (𝑥) = sec 2 (𝑥) 𝑓 (𝑥) = tan(𝑥) + 𝑐

Functions Corresponding Integrals

𝐹 (𝑥) = sin(𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏) − cos(𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)
𝑓(𝑥) = +𝑐
𝑎
𝐹 (𝑥) = cos(𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏) sin(𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)
𝑓(𝑥) = +𝑐
𝑎
𝐹 (𝑥) = sec 2 (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏) tan (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)
𝑓(𝑥) = +𝑐
𝑎

Example:
Given the following derivatives, find the corresponding integrals
1. cos(2𝑥) + sin (5𝑥 − 1)
∫ [cos(2𝑥) + sin(5𝑥 − 1)] 𝑑𝑥 =

sin(2𝑥) − cos(5𝑥 − 1)
+ =
2 5

sin(2𝑥) cos(5𝑥 − 1)
− +𝑐
2 5

2. sec 2 (3𝑥 + 5) − cos (5𝑥 + 5)

∫ [sec 2 (3𝑥 + 5) − cos(5𝑥 + 5)] 𝑑𝑥 =

tan(3𝑥 + 5) sin(5𝑥 + 5)
− +𝑐
3 5
 Title Additional Mathematics [‘N’ Levels] and Computing Mathematics –
Finding the Definite Integral of a Function
Editor Lee Jian Lian
Date 30/4/2018
Updates (Removed Unnecessary Text From Original Version)

Disclaimer: This file does not cover logarithmic functions, exponential function and
trigonometric function.

You need the following prerequisite knowledge before proceeding

• Able to find indefinite integral of a function
• Understand the notation of indefinite integral

Notation used in finding definite integral

𝑔
∫ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = |𝑓 (𝑔) − 𝑓 (ℎ)|
ℎ

𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ℎ Refers to the boundary between the two

points on the x-axis you are finding the
area under graph for

|𝑛| This is sometimes referred to as the

absolute value of 𝑛, any negative value
that is between the two vertical strokes
becomes positive while positive value
within the vertical strokes remains
positive.
Example 1
Find the following definite integral

2
∫ 𝑥 2 + 1 𝑑𝑥 =
0

2
Indefinite integral of 2
𝑥3
the mentioned ∫ 𝑥 + 1 𝑑𝑥 = +𝑥
0 3
function is:
Since we are finding 𝑥3 2
the definite integral, [ + 𝑥]
3 0
we rewrite the integral
in the following
notation
Substitute 0 and 2 into 23 03
the value 𝑥. | + 2 − ( + 0)| =
3 3

Final Answer 14
𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠
3
Example 2
Find the following definite integral
1
∫ 4 + 3𝑥 2 𝑑𝑥
0

1
The indefinite integral 2
3𝑥 3
of the function is ∫ 4 + 3𝑥 = 4𝑥 +
0 3

Rewrite using the 3𝑥 3 1

following notation [4𝑥 + ]
3 0

Substitute 0 and 1 into 3(1)3 3(0) 3

the value of 𝑥 |4(1) + − (4(0) + )|
3 3

Final Answer 5 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

Example 3
Find the following definite integral
0
∫ 6𝑥 7 + 2𝑥 − 6𝑥 2 + 5
7

0
The 7 2
6𝑥 8 2𝑥 2 𝑥3
indefinite ∫ 6𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 6𝑥 + 5 = + − 6 ( ) + 5𝑥
7 8 2 3
integral of
the function
is
Rewrite 6𝑥 8 2𝑥 2 𝑥3 0
using the [ + − 6 ( ) + 5𝑥]
8 2 3 7
following
notation
Substitute 0 6(0) 8 2(0)2 03 6(7)8 2(7)2 6(73 )
and 7 into | + − 6 ( ) + 5 (0) − [ + − + 5(7)]|
8 2 3 8 2 3
the value of
𝑥
Final Answer = 4322998.75 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠
Example 4
Find the following definite integral
2
∫ √𝑥 3 + 2𝑥 − 9
10

Indefinite integral of 3 4
𝑥 3 + 𝑥 2 − 9𝑥
the function is 4

Rewrite using the 3 4 2

[ 𝑥 3 + 𝑥 2 − 9𝑥]
notation as shown 4 10
Substitute 2 and 10 3 4 3 4
| (2)3 + 22 − 9(2) − [ (10)3 + 102 − 9(10)]|
to find the definite 4 4
integral
Answer is 38.268 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠