FP1 NUMERICAL METHODS PAST EXAM QUESTIONS

Questions 1-6 and Q.8 are standard plain-vanilla questions.

Questions 9 (part d, anyway), 14, and 16 are ones where many students failed.

They do not demand more or harder working. They demand that you think a bit, and
understand what e.g. Newton-Raphson means (taking the tangent at x0 as an approximation
to the curve y=f(x) for the purposes of finding x1).

A number of questions from no.7 onwards demand that you know derivatives of functions
now not included in FP1. Just look up the derivatives in the mark scheme, and then you can
use those questions for practice.

1. f(x) = x3 – 3x2 + 5x – 4
(a) Use differentiation to find f (x).
(2)

The equation f(x) = 0 has a root α in the interval 1.4 < x < 1.5
(b) Taking 1.4 as a first approximation to α, use the Newton-Raphson procedure once to obtain
a second approximation to α. Give your answer to 3 decimal places.
(4)
(Total 6 marks)

2. f(x) = 2x – 6x
The equation f(x) = 0 has a root α in the interval [4, 5].
Using the end points of this interval find, by linear interpolation, an approximation to α.
(Total 3 marks)

3 7
3. f (x) = x 2, x>0
x
(a) Show that f(x) = 0 has a root between 1.4 and 1.5
(2)

(b) Starting with the interval [1.4,1.5], use interval bisection twice to find an interval of width
0.025 that contains α.
(3)

(c) Taking 1.45 as a first approximation to α, apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to
3 7
f(x) = x 2 to obtain a second approximation to α, giving your answer to 3 decimal
x
places.
(5)
(Total 10 marks)

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 11
4. f(x) = 3x2
x2
(a) Write down, to 3 decimal places, the value of f(1.3) and the value of f(1.4).
(1)

The equation f(x) = 0 has a root α between 1.3 and 1.4

(b) Starting with the interval [1.3, 1.4], use interval bisection to find an interval of width 0.025
which contains α.
(3)

(c) Taking 1.4 as a first approximation to α, apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to f(x)
to obtain a second approximation to α, giving your answer to 3 decimal places.
(5)
(Total 9 marks)

5. Given that α is the only real root of the equation

x3 – x2 – 6 = 0
(a) show that 2.2 < α < 2.3
(2)

(b) Taking 2.2 as a first approximation to α, apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to
f (x) = x3 – x2 – 6 to obtain a second approximation to α, giving your answer to 3 decimal
places.
(5)

(c) Use linear interpolation once on the interval [2.2, 2.3] to find another approximation to α ,
giving your answer to 3 decimal places.
(3)
(Total 10 marks)

18
6. f ( x) 3 x 20
x
(a) Show that the equation f(x) = 0 has a root α in the interval [1.1, 1.2].
(2)

(b) Find f′(x).

(3)

(c) Using x0 = 1.1 as a first approximation to α , apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to
f(x) to find a second approximation to α , giving your answer to 3 significant figures.

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 (4)
(Total 9 marks)

7. f(x) = 4 cos x + e– x .
(a) Show that the equation f(x) = 0 has a root α between 1.6 and 1.7
(2)

(b) Taking 1.6 as your first approximation to α, apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to
f(x) to obtain a second approximation to α. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.
(4)
(Total 6 marks)

x
8. f ( x) 3x 2 x tan 2, x
2
The equation f(x) = 0 has a root α in the interval [0.7, 0.8].
(a) Use linear interpolation, on the values at the end points of this interval, to obtain an
approximation to α. Give your answer to 3 decimal places.
(4)
(b) Taking 0.75 as a first approximation to α, apply the Newton–Raphson procedure once to
f(x) to obtain a second approximation to α. Give your answer to 3 decimal places.
(4)
(Total 8 marks)

9. f(x) = x3 + 8x – 19.
(a) Show that the equation f(x) = 0 has only one real root.
(3)

(b) Show that the real root of f(x) = 0 lies between 1 and 2.
(2)

(c) Obtain an approximation to the real root of f(x) = 0 by performing two application of the
Newton-Raphson procedure to f(x), using x = 2 as the first approximation. Give your
answer to 3 decimal places.
(4)

(d) By considering the change of sign of f(x) over an appropriate interval, show that your
answer to part (c) is accurate to 3 decimal places.
(2)
(Total 11 marks)

10. f(x) = ln x +x – 3, x > 0.

(a) Find f(2.0) and f(2.5), each to 4 decimal places, and show that the root α of the equation f(x)
= 0 satisfies 2.0 < α < 2.5.
(3)

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 (b) Use linear interpolation with your values of f(2.0) and f(2.5) to estimate α, giving your
answer to 3 decimal places.
(2)

(c) Taking 2.25 as a first approximation to α, apply the Newton-Raphson process once to f(x)
to obtain a second approximation to α, giving your answer to 3 decimal places.
(5)

(d) Show that your answer in part (c) gives α correct to 3 decimal places.
(2)
(Total 12 marks)

11.

f(x) = 0.25x – 2 + 4sin √x.

(a) Show that the equation f(x) = 0 has a root α between x = 0.24 and x = 0.28.
(2)
(b) Starting with the interval [0.24, 0.28], use interval bisection three times to find an interval
of width 0.005 which contains α.
(3)

The equation f(x) = 0 also has a root β between x = 10.75 and x = 11.25.
(c) Taking 11 as a first approximation to β, use the Newton-Raphson process on f(x) once to
obtain a second approximation to β. Give your answer to 2 decimal places.
(6)
(Total 11 marks)

12. The temperature θ°C of a room t hours after a heating system has been turned on is given by

= t + 26 – 20e –0.5t, t 0.
The heating system switches off when θ = 20. The time t = α, when the heating system switches
off, is the solution of the equation θ – 20 = 0, where α lies in the interval [1.8, 2].
(a) Using the end points of the interval [1.8, 2], find, by linear interpolation, an approximation
to α. Give your answer to 2 decimal places.
(4)

(b) Taking 1.9 as a first approximation to α, use the Newton-Raphson procedure once to obtain
a second approximation to α. Give your answer to 3 decimal places.
(6)

(c) Use your answer to part (b) to find, to the nearest minute, the time for which the heating

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 system was on.
(1)
(Total 11 marks)

13. f(x) = 1 – ex + 3 sin 2x

The equation f(x) = 0 has a root in the interval 1.0 < x < 1.4.
(a) Starting with the interval (1.0, 1.4), use interval bisection three times to find the value of
to one decimal place.
(3)

(b) Taking your answer to part (a) as a first approximation to , apply the Newton-Raphson
procedure once to f(x) to obtain a second approximation to .
(4)

(c) By considering the change of sign of f(x) over an appropriate interval, show that your
answer to part (b) is accurate to 2 decimal places.
(2)
(Total 9 marks)

14.
y
7

O
x
1 2 3 4 5 6
–1

–2

–3
The diagram above shows part of the graph of y = f(x), where

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 f(x) = x sin x + 2x – 3.
The equation f(x) = 0 has a single root .
(a) Taking x1 = 1 as a first approximation to , apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to
f(x) to find a second approximation to , to 3 significant figures.
(5)

(b) Given instead that x1 = 5 is taken as a first approximation to in the Newton-Raphson

procedure,
(i) use the diagram to produce a rough sketch of y = f(x) for 3 x 6,
and by drawing suitable tangents, and without further calculation,

(ii) show the approximate positions of x2 and x3, the second and third approximations to
.
(2)
(Total 7 marks)

15.
f(x) = 2x + x – 4.
The equation f(x) = 0 has a root in the interval [1, 2].
(a) Use linear interpolation on the values at the end points of this interval to find an
approximation to .
(2)

(b) Taking x = 1 as a first approximation to , apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to

f(x) to obtain a second approximation to .
(4)
(Total 6 marks)

16. f(x) = sin 3x – 2x + 1.

(a) Show by drawing a sketch that there is just one solution of f(x) = 0.
(3)

(b) Taking 0.8 as a first approximation to , apply the Newton-Raphson procedure twice to
f(x) to find a second and a third approximation to . Give your answers to 4 significant
figures.
(5)
(Total 8 marks)

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17. f(x) = 3x – x – 6.
(a) Show that f(x) = 0 has a root between x = 1 and x = 2.
(2)
(b) Starting with the interval (1, 2), use interval bisection three times to find an interval of
width 0.125 which contains .
(2)
(c) Taking 2 as a first approximation to , apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to f(x) to
obtain a second approximation to . Give your answer to 3 decimal places.
(4)
(Total 8 marks)

18. f(x) = 2 sin 2x + x – 2.

The root of the equation f(x) = 0 lies in the interval [2, ].
(a) Using the end points of this interval find, by linear interpolation, an approximation to .
(4)
(b) Taking 2.8 as a first approximation to , apply the Newton-Raphson procedure once to f(x)
to find a second approximation to , giving your answer to 3 significant figures.
(5)
(Total 9 marks)

19.

4x 3
f(x) = e x.
x2 1
(a) Evaluate f(0.9) and f(1.0).
(2)
(b) Deduce that the equation f(x) = 0 has a root in the interval [0.9, 1.0].
(1)

(c) Taking 0.9 as a first approximation to , use the Newton-Raphson procedure once on f(x)
to find a second approximation, giving your answer to 2 decimal places.
(6)
(d) Investigate whether or not your answer in part (c) gives correct to 2 decimal places.
(3)
(Total 12 marks)

MARK SCHEME
1. (a) f'(x) = 3x2 – 6x + 5 M1A1 2

(b) f(1.4) = –0.136 B1

f'(1.4) = 2.48 B1ft

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 – 0.136
x0 = 1.4, x 1 = 1.4 – M1
2.48
= 1.455 (3 dpl) A1 4
[6]

2. End points: (4, –8) and (5, 2) B1

–4 5–
(or equiv.) M1
8 2
α = 4.8 A1 3
[3]

3. (a) f (1.4) ... and f (1.5) ... Evaluate both M1

32 17
f (1.4) 0.256 (or ), f (1.5) 0.708 ... (or )
125 24
Change of sign, root A1 2
Alternative method:
Graphical method could earn M1 if 1.4 and 1.5 are both indicated
A1 then needs correct graph and conclusion, i.e. change of sign root
Note
M1: Some attempt at two evaluations
A1: needs accuracy to 1 figure truncated or rounded and conclusion
including sign change indicated (One figure accuracy sufficient)

(b) f (1.45) 0.221... or 0.2 [ root is in [1.4, 1.45] ] M1

f (1.425) 0.018... or –0.019 or –0.02 M1
root is in [1.425, 1.45] A1 cso 3
Note
M1: See f(1.45) attempted and positive
M1: See f(1.425) attempted and negative
A1: is cso – any slips in numerical work are penalised here even
if correct region found.
Answer may be written as 1.425 ≤ α ≤ 1.45 or 1.425 < α < 1.45 or
(1.425, 1.45) must be correct way round. Between is sufficient.
There is no credit for linear interpolation. This is M0 M0 A0
Answer with no working is also M0M0A0

(c) f ( x) 3 x 2 7 x 2
M1 A1
f (1.45) 9.636 ... (Special case: f ( x) 3x 2 7 x 2 +2
then f (1.45) 11.636... ) A1 ft

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 f (1.45) 0.221 ...
x1 1.45 1.45 1.427 M1 A1 cao 5
f (1.45) 9.636 ...

Note
M1: for attempt at differentiation (decrease in power) A1 is cao
Second A1may be implied by correct answer (do not need to see it)
ft is limited to special case given.
2nd M1: for attempt at Newton Raphson with their values for f(1.45)
and f ′(1.45).
A1: is cao and needs to be correct to 3dp
Newton Raphson used more than once – isw.
Special case: f′(x) = 3x2 + 7x–2 + 2 then f′(1.45) = 11.636...) is M1 A0
A1ft M1 A0 This mark can also be given by implication from
final answer of 1.43
[10]

4. (a) f(1.3) = –1.439 and f(1.4) = 0.268 (allow awrt) B1 1

Note
Both answers required for B1. Accept anything that rounds to 3dp
values above.

(b) f(1.35) < 0 (–0.568...) 1.35 < α < 1.4 M1A1

f(1.375) < 0 (–0.146...) 1.375 < α < 1.4 A1 3
Note
f(1.35) or awrt –0.6 M1
(f(1.35) and awrt –0.6) AND (f(1.375) and awrt –0.1) for first A1
1.375 < α < 1.4 or expression using brackets or equivalent in words
for second A1

(c) f′(x) 6x + 22x–3 M1A1

f ( x0 ) 0.268
x1 = x0 – 1.4 , = 1.384 M1A1,A1 5
f ( x0 ) 16.417
Notes
One term correct for M1, both correct for A1
Correct formula seen or implied and attempt to substitute for M1
awrt 16.4 for second A1 which can be implied by correct final answer
awrt 1.384 correct answer only A1
[9]

5. (a) f (2.2) = 2.23 – 2.22 – 6 (= –0.192)

f (2.3) = 2.33 – 2.32 – 6 (= 0.877) M1

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 Change of sign Root need numerical values correct (to 1 s.f.). A1 2
Note
M1 for attempt at f(2.2) and f(2.3)
A1 need indication that there is a change of sign – (could be
– 0.19<0, 0.88>0) and need conclusion. (These marks may be awarded in
other parts of the question if not done in part (a))

(b) f′(x) = 3x2 – 2x B1

f′(2.2) = 10.12 B1
f( x 0 ) – 0.192
x1 x 0 – 2.2 – M1 A1ft
f' ( x 0 ) 10 .12
= 2.219 A1cao 5
Note
B1 for seeing correct derivative (but may be implied by later correct work)
B1 for seeing 10.12 or this may be implied by later work
M1 Attempt Newton-Raphson with their values
A1ft may be implied by the following answer (but does not require
an evaluation)
Final A1 must 2.219 exactly as shown. So answer of 2.21897
would get 4/5
If done twice ignore second attempt

– 2.2 2.3 – k 0.1 – k

(c) (or equivalent such as .) M1
'0.192 ' '0.877 ' '0.192 ' '0.877 '
α (0.877 + 0.192) = 2.3 × 0.192 + 2.2 × 0.877 A1
or k(0.877 + 0.192) = 0.1 × 0.192, where α = 2.2 + k
so α ≈ 2.218 (2.21796…) (Allow awrt) A1 3
Alternative
Uses equation of line joining (2.2, –0.192) to (2.3, 0.877) and M1
substitutes y = 0
0.192 0.877
y 0.192 ( x – 2.2) and y = 0, so α ≈ 2.218 or A1, A1
0.1
awrt as before (NB Gradient = 10.69)
Note
M1 Attempt at ratio with their values of ± f(2.2) and ± f(2.3).
N.B. If you see 0.192 – α or 0.877 – α in the fraction then this is M0
A1 correct linear expression and definition of variable if not α
(may be implied by final correct answer– does not need 3 dp accuracy)
A1 for awrt 2.218
If done twice ignore second attempt
[10]

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6. (a) attempt evaluation of f(1.1) and f(1.2) (– looking for sign change) M1
f(1.1) = 0.30875, f(1.2) = –0.28199 Change of sign in
f(x) root in the interval A1 2
Note
awrt 0.3 and –0.3 and indication of sign change for first A1

1 1
3 – –1
(b) f’(x) = x 2 – 9 x 2 M1 A1 A1 3
2
Note
Multiply by power and subtract 1 from power for evidence
of differentiation and award of first M1

(c) f (1.1) = 0.30875.. f′ (1.1) = –6.37086... B1 B1

0.30875...
x1 1.1 – M1
– 6.37086..
= 1.15(to 3 sig.figs.) A1 4
Note
awrt 0.309 B1and awrt –6.37 B1 if answer incorrect
Evidence of Newton-Raphson for M1
Evidence of Newton-Raphson and awrt 1.15 award 4/4
[9]

7. (a) f(1.6)= ... f(1.7) = ... (Evaluate both) M1

0.08… (or 0.09), –0.3… One +ve, one –ve or Sign change, root A1 2
Any errors seen in evaluation of f(1.6) or f(1.7) lose A mark
so –0.32 is A0
Values are 0.0851 and –0.3327 Need concluding statement also.

(b) f (x) = –4 sin x–e–x B1

f(1.6)
1.6 – M1
f (1.6)
1.6
4 cos 1.6 e 0.085 ...
= 1.6 – 1.6
1.6 A1
( 4 sin 1.6 e ) 4.2...
= 1.62 A1 4

B1 may be awarded if seen in N–R as –4sin 1.6 – e–1.6 or as –4.2

M1 for statement of Newton Raphson (sign error in rule results in M0)
First A1 may be implied by correct work previously followed

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 by correct answer
Do not accept 1.620 for final A1. It must be given and correct to 3sf.
1.62 may follow incorrect work and is A0
No working at all in part (b) is zero marks.
[6]

8. (a) f (0.7) = –0.195028497 and f (0.8) = 0.297206781 M1

0.8 f (0.8) 0.8 f (0.7) 0.7 f (0.8)
Use to obtain = A1 4
0.7 f (0.7) f (0.8) f (0.7)
(= 0.739620991) = 0.740 Answer required to 3 dp or better
Bs for 3dp or better First M for reasonable attempt using
fractions and differences.

1 x
(b) f (x) = 6x + 1 sec 2 M1A1
2 2
f (0.75 )
Use x2 = 0.75 (= 0.741087218) = 0.741 M1A1 4
f (0.75 )
Answer required to 3 dp or better
First M attempt to differentiate f(x), term in x is enough.
Lose last A if either or both not to 3 dp
[8]

9. (a) f (x) = 3x2 + 8 3x2 + 8 = 0........ or 3x2 + 8 > 0....... M1

Correct derivative and, e.g., ‘no turning points’ or ‘increasing
function’. y
2

1
x
–2 –1 1 2 3
–1

–2

Simple sketch, (increasing, crossing positive x-axis)

(Or, if the M1A1 has been scored, a reason such as ‘crosses
x-axis only once’). B1 3
M: Differentiate and consider sign of f (x), or equate
f (x) to zero.
Alternative
M1: Attempt to rearrange as x3 – 19 = –8x or x3 = 19 – 8x
(condone sign slips), and to sketch a cubic graph and a
straight line graph.
A1: Correct graphs (shape correct and intercepts ‘in the
right place’).
B1: Comment such as “one intersection, therefore one root”).

(b) Calculate f(1) and f(2) (Values must be seen) M1

F(1) = –10, f(2) = 5, Sign change, Root A1 2

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 f(2) 5
(c) x1 = 2 – ,=2– (= 1.75) M1, A1
f (2) 20
f( x1 ) 0.359375
x2 = x1 – , 1.75 = 1.729 (ONLY)( ) M1, A1 4
f ( x1 ) 17.1875

1st A1 can be implied by an answer of 1.729, provided N.R.

has been used.
Answer only: No marks. The Newton-Raphson method must be seen.

(d) Calculate f( – 0.0005) and f( + 0.0005) M1

(Or a ‘tighter’ interval that gives a sign change).
f(1.7285) = –0.0077... and f(1.7295) = 0.0092..., Accurate to 3 d.p. A1 2
For A1, correct values of f(1.7285) and f(1.7295) must be seen,
together with a conclusion. If only 1 s.f. is given in the values,
allow rounded (e.g. – 0.008) or truncated (e.g. – 0.007) values.
[11]

10. (a) f(2.0) = – 0.30685……. = – 0.3069 AWRT 3 d.p. M1

f(2.5) = 0.41629……… = 0.4163 both correct 4 d.p. A1
States change of sign, so root (between 2 and 2.5) B1 3
Note:
B1 gained if candidate’s 2 values do show a change of sign
and statement made

f(2) 2 f (2.0)
(b) (2) 0.5 or or equivalent M1
f(2) f(2.5) 2.5 f (2.5)
x 0.5 x
Or and x found
f(2) f(2.5)
= 2.212 AWRT A1 2

(c) f(2.25) = 0.06093……. ( 3 d.p.) [Allow ln.2.25 + 2.25 – 3] B1

1 4 13
f (x) = 1, f (2.25) 1.4 or 1 or (allow 1.444) M1,A1
x 4 9
f(2.25)
2.25 , = 2.20781.... = 2.208 AWRT M1A1 5
f (2.25)

1
First M in (c) is just for +1
x
If no intermediate values seen B1M1A1M1A0 is possible for
2.209 or 2.21, otherwise as scheme (B1 eased to award this
if not evaluated)
MR 2.5 instead of 2.25 (Answer 2.203) award on ePen B0M1A0M1A1

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 (d) f(2.2075) =, {–6.3…. × 10–4} M1
f(2.2085) = , {8.1…. × 10–4}
Correct values (> 1 s.f.), (root in interval) so root is 2.208 to 3 d.p. A1 2
A1 requires values correct (> 1 s.f.) and statement (need not say
change of sign)
M can be given for candidate’s f(2.2075) and f(2.2085)
Allow N–R applied at least twice more, but A1 requires 2.20794
or better and statement
[12]

11. (a) f(0.24) 0.058, f (0.28) = 0.089 accept 1sf M1

Change of sign (and continuity) α (0.24, 0.28) Al 2

(b) f (0.26) 0.017 ( a (0.24,0.26)) accept lsf M1

f (0.25) 0.020 ( a (0.25, 0.26))
f (0.255) 0.001 a (0.255, 0.26) M1 A1 3

(c) f (11) 0.0534 at least 3sf B1

2 cos x 1
f ' ( x) M1 A1
x 4
f (11) 0.3438 at least 2sf A1
0.0534
11 11 .16 M1 A1 6
0.3438
If f (11) –0.3438 is produced without working, this is to be
accepted for three marks M1 A1 A1.
[11]

12. (a) f(1.8) = 19.6686... – 20 = – 0.3313... Allow awrt ± 0.33 B1

f(2) = 20.6424... – 20 = 0.6424... Allow awrt ± 0.64 B1
1.8 2 , 1.8 0.33 0.2 1.87M1, A1 4
"0.33" "0.64" 0.33 0.64

(b) f(1.9) 0.1651795..., or just 1.9 + 6 – 20e–05×1.9 Allow awrt 0.165 B1

f (t) = 1 + 10e–0.5×1.9 M1 A1
f (1.9) = 4.8674..., or just 1 + 10e–05×1.9 Allow awrt 4.87 A1
0.16518 1.866
2 = 1.9 – M1 A1 6
4.867410

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 (c) 112 (min) (1 h 52 m) B1 1
[11]

(a) “Answer only” does not score any marks.

Do not allow (α +1.8) or (2 + α) for the M mark, but allow ‘minus slips’.
‘0.33’ and ‘0.64’ used the ‘wrong way round’ scores the M mark.
Further applications of linear interpolation: isw, and accept 1.87 if seen at end.

(b) “Answer only” does not score any marks.

M for differentiation: evidence from one non–constant term is sufficient.
The B1 for f(1.9) and the A1 for f (1.9) can be implied by the answer 1.866.
For failure to round answers to the required accuracy, penalise a maximum of one mark in
the question (at the first occurrence).
Special case in part (a):
‘19.67’ and ‘20.64’ used instead of 0.33 and 0.64, to give 1.90 scores B0B0M1A1.

13. N.B. f(1) = 1.0…., f(1.1) = 0.42…, f(1.2) = – 0.2937….

f(1.15) = 0.078…., f(1.4) = – 2.05.
(a) f(1.2) = – 0.2937…. B1
f(1.2) to 1sf or better
f(1.1) = 0.42…. and f(1.15) = 0.078…. M1
Attempt f(1.1), f(1.15)
= 1.2 A1 c.a.o. 3

(b) f (x) = 6cos2x – ex M1 A1

0.2937 ...
x2 = 1.2 – M1
f (1.2)
= 1.16(2…..) A1 4
A.W.R.T. 1.16

f(1.155) 0.04...... .
(c) (change of sign) = 1.16 M1, A1 2
f(1.165) –0.029..,
N.B. f (1.2) = –7.744…
[9]

14. (a) Correct method for f (x); xcosx + sinx + 2 M1A1

f(1) = –0.1585, f (1) = 3.382 or better seen A1
" 0.1585 "
Using N-R correctly: u1 = 1 – ; = 1.05 (3 s.f.) M1A1 5
"3.382 "
City of London Academy 15
 [Notes: Answer 1.047, 1.05 implies second A mark]

(b) Two tangents drawn, one at {5, f(5)}, the other at {x2, f(x2)} M1
x2, x3 marked in appropriate positions A1 2
[7]

15. (a) f(1) = -1 and f(2) = 2 B1

2 2 1
=1 B1 2
1 1 3

(b) f (x) = 2x ln 2 + 1 M1
Attempts f (x)
f (x) = 2 ln 2 + 1 A1
( 1)
=1– dM1
2 ln 2 1
Uses Newton Raphson
2 ln 2 2
= = 1.419 A1 4
2 ln 2 1
any correct answer
[6]

f(x)

x
3
x
16. (a)
–1

y = sin 3x B1
y = 2x – 1 B1
1 point where they meet B1 3

City of London Academy 16

 f(x)

x
or

Shape B1
Asymptotic behaviour to y = – 2x + 1 B1
Cross x-axis once + comment B1

(b) f´(x) = 3cos 3x – 2 Attempt to diff. cos3x + two terms for M1 M1, A1
0.075
u1 = 0.8 – M1
4.212
= 0.8179 A1
u2 = 0.8177 A1 5
[8]

17. (a) f(1) = –4, f(2) = 1

both M1
change of sign (and continuity) implies 1 < <2 A1 2

(b) f(1.5) = –2.3… 1.5 < < 2 B1

f(1.75) = –0.9… 1.75 < < 2
f(1.875) = –0.03… 1.875 < < 2 B1 2

(c) f´(x) = 3x ln 3 – 1 M1
attempt at differentiation using lns can be implied by next line
f´(2) = 8.8875… A1
accept 32 ln 3 – 1, awrt 8.888
use of numerical differentiation button is acceptable
1
2 =2 = 1.887 M1, A1 4
8.8875 ...
use of N-R, cao
[8]
Notes: Incorrect method of differentiation is M0, A0, M1, A0
For example, f (x) = x3x–1 – 1 x = 1.8 is ¼.
The exact answer is 1.8789…

Alternative to 4 (a): Use of a diagram

City of London Academy 17

 y
9 ×
8 × y=x+6
7 ×

3 y = 3x
×
0 1 2 x

Two graphs with domain at least [1, 2] with one intersection M1

3, 9 and 7, 8 A1 2

18. (a) f(2) = 1.514 B1

f( ) = 1.142 B1
1.142

–1.514
1.142
M1
2 1.514
× 1.514 + 2 × 1.142 = (1.142 + 1.514)
= 2.65 A1 4

(b) f (x) = 4 cos 2x + 1 k cos 2x + c M1

f(2.8) = 0.4625 B1
f (2.8) = 4.1023 A1
( 0.4625 )
x2 = 2.8 M1
4.1023
= 2.91 only A1 5
[9]

0 .6 0.9
19. (a) f(0.9) = e 0.0751 B1
1.81
1
f(1.0) = 0.5 – e 0.1321 B1 2
(b) f(x) is continuous and changes sign between x = 0.9 and x = 1
root exists B1 1

4( x 2 1) 2 x(4 x 3) x
(c) f (x) = +e
( x 2 1) 2
f (0.9) = 2.2869
Newton-Raphson process gives 2nd approximation

City of London Academy 18

 0.0751
= 0.9 + M1
2.2869
= 0.93 (2 decimal places) A1 6

0 .7 0.925
(d) f(0.925) = e 0.019 M1
1.8556
0.74 0.935
(0.935) = e 0.0022 A1
1.8742
Since root lies in the interval (0.925, 0.935) due to sign change
= 0.93 is correct to 2 decimal places A1 3
[12]

1. No Report available for this question.

2. No Report available for this question.

3. Part (a) was straightforward and generally well done. Very few errors were made in the numerical evaluations (we do
need to see these). There were, however, a minority of candidates who did not give the required conclusion, which
ideally requires the sign change to be noted and a statement made of the interval for the root. In part (b) a few candidates
attempted linear interpolation, maybe indicating a lack of practice with interval bisection. The numerical evaluations of
f(1.45) and f(1.425), which are required, were well done by the majority of candidates. A noticeable number, however,
did not produce a correctly stated conclusion – commonly no statement at all or just a single x value. Candidates should
be made aware that, if the interval notation is used, the smaller number should be first – in this case [1.425, 1.45]. Part
(c) was generally very well done with the vast majority knowing the Newton-Raphson iteration. The most common
1
error was not differentiating the constant (+2). A few had problems differentiating and a small number continued
x
beyond one iteration.
Candidates should be encouraged to evaluate and write down intermediate values in their working, so that if a slip is
made the examiner can see where. Failure to do so will have lost a mark here for some candidates.
Candidates should also be encouraged to check that their answers throughout a question are consistent.

4. Part (a) was usually correct, though the required interval was not always stated. A small number of candidates failed to
follow the requested method in part (b), in general trying to use linear interpolation. For most, however, the correct
method was used, but it was surprising to see how many candidates failed to give an interval in their final answer.
Newton-Raphson was usually attempted correctly in part (c), though sometimes a few candidates had problems
differentiating the negative index.

5. Most candidates were clear about the steps necessary to show that the root of the given equation was between the values
2.2 and 2.3 in part (a). Almost all substituted 2.2 and 2.3 into the left hand side of the equation and gave their numeric
answers. A few did not complete the solution by stating that one answer was positive and one negative and that the sign
change indicated the presence of a root between 2.2 and 2.3.
The Newton Raphson method in part (b) was well understood and most answered this part of the question correctly.
Candidates are advised to show their expression for f′(x) and for f′(2.2). They are also advised to quote the formula and
show their substitution. The final answer 2.219 was not acceptable with no working.
There were many good answers to part (c), with most solutions using similar triangles. Those who had learned and
quoted a formula often made sign slips. Some used the equation of the line joining (2.2, –0.192) and (2.3, 0.877) and
found where it crossed the x axis. This was an acceptable alternative method. A small number of candidates tried
interval bisection however, which was not linear interpolation!

6. This was another very accessible question with many candidates gaining full marks. In part (a) most solutions stated the
conclusion about change of sign implying a root. In part (b) there were few errors in finding f′ (x) but occasionally the
second term power was incorrect or the constant term of 20 was left at the end of the answer. In part (c) there were a few
candidates who did not give the answer to the required accuracy. Many candidates showed no values of f(1.1) and f ′
(1.1) in their working and a small number applied Newton-Raphson twice.

7. In part (a) it was expected that candidates would evaluate f(1.6), f(1.7) and declare a sign change, resulting in the
conclusion that there was a root in the interval (1.6, 1.7). Most candidates did this and earned both marks. There were a
few errors evaluating the values, but almost all candidates worked in radians rather than in degrees. A number of
candidates did not draw an adequate conclusion after doing the evaluation.
In solutions to part (b) there were some sign errors in the derivative f (x). Newton Raphson was usually stated correctly

City of London Academy 19

 but there were some numerical slips in using the procedure and this frequently resulted in the wrong answer 1.58. The
answer here was required to be accurate to 3 significant figures and needed to be 1.62 (not 1.620). In this question the
answer 1.62, with no working, resulted in zero marks, as did the answer 1.62 following incorrect work.

8. This question was generally well done by most candidates. In part (a) a variety of methods using linear interpolation
were used, with some working from first principles. The most successful used similar triangles or a standard formula.
Some misinterpreted the question and continued to apply their method until successive roots agreed to 3 decimal places.
The most common errors were due to rounding or to calculators being in degree mode.
In part (b) the majority of candidates were able to apply Newton-Raphson successfully. Most differentiated correctly
and gained full marks. Where the differentiation was incorrect the most common error was in omitting the ½ and some
missed out the +1. In both parts of the question there was some evidence of incorrect calculator use. This was
particularly noticeable in part (b).

3
9. There were very few completely correct responses to part (a). Solutions based on the function f(x) = x + 8x – 19 needed
to establish convincingly that the graph crossed the x-axis at only one point. The most efficient way to do this was to
show that there were no turning points, but few candidates considered the sign of the derivative. Those who did
2
differentiate sometimes argued that because 3x + 8 = 0 had no real roots the original equation had only one real root.
3
Other possible methods included sketching, for example, the graphs of y = x and y = 19 – 8x, showing that these had
just one point of intersection. Weaker candidates tried to solve
3
x + 8x – 19 = 0 by using the quadratic formula.
Answers to part (b) were usually correct, but occasionally lacking a reason or conclusion. The Newton-Raphson
procedure was well known in part (c), where many excellent solutions were seen.
Most candidates were able to choose a suitable interval to establish the accuracy of their answer to part (c), although a
few thought that the interval from 1.728 to 1.730 was sufficient.
Conclusions here should have referred to the accuracy of the root rather than just stating that ‘there is a root in the
interval’.

10. This question was almost universally well done, with only part (b) seeming to be less familiar. Candidates are now well
prepared for such questions and good complete answers to parts (a) and (c) were the norm. Although part (c), testing
knowledge of the Newton-Raphson process, was well done here, it is of some concern that some candidates show no, or
very little evidence of their working. It is a dangerous strategy to feed all the data into the calculator because then wrong
answers clearly gain no credit; it is advisable to show f (x) and relevant numerical intermediate results as often marks
may then be gained if the final answer is incorrect.

11. The majority of candidates gained both marks in part (a). It is essential to realise that, when answering parts (a) and (b),
statements like f (0.4 )<0 are inadequate. They have a fifty per cent chance of being accurate and offer no way that an
examiner can evaluate a candidate’s response. Here one significant figure is enough - f (0.28 ) ≈ 0.09 >0 is a sufficient
statement – but anywhere in a question on numerical analysis, intermediate results should be given which show that
working is being done with sufficient accuracy to obtain the result required in the question. Interval bisection is not
always well understood and, again, questions need to be read carefully. Some candidates having given completely
correct working gave their answer as an approximation to the root, α ≈ 0.255, instead of giving, as asked, an interval of
width 0.005 which contained α, (0.255, 0.26 ). Some candidates produced three linear interpolations instead of three
interval bisections and the amount of time this took must have seriously affected their ability to complete the paper. In
part (c), nearly all candidates knew how to use the Newton-Raphson method but the majority of candidates were unable
to differentiate 4sin x correctly.

This question was almost universally well done, with only part (b) seeming to be less familiar. Candidates are now well
prepared for such questions and good complete answers to parts (a) and (c) were the norm. Although part (c), testing
knowledge of the Newton-Raphson process, was well done here, it is of some concern that some candidates show no, or
very little evidence of their working. It is a dangerous strategy to feed all the data into the calculator because then wrong
answers clearly gain no credit; it is advisable to show f (x) and relevant numerical intermediate results as often marks
may then be gained if the final answer is incorrect.

12. Some candidates had difficulty in interpreting the context of this question and worked with θ rather than α in part (a)
and/or part (b). In part (a), a few were unfamiliar with linear interpolation or confused it with interval bisection, but
most were able to use a correct formula to find an approximation to α. Some candidates persisted with further iterations,
wasting time but still reaching the required answer 1.87. Numerical slips were not uncommon.

The Newton-Raphson procedure was well known in part (b) and many excellent solutions were seen. The required
differentiation was usually correct, but a few candidates showed insufficient detail in their numerical working,
penalising themselves if their final answer was wrong. Occasionally part (c) was omitted, but most candidates were able
to refer back to the context and calculate the required time.

13. It was disappointing that in a question about numerical methods a number of candidates failed to give values to justify
their statements. In part (a), for example, simply stating f(1.2)<0, f(1.1)>0 and f(1.15)>0 is not sufficient. However,
apart from the small minority who worked in degrees, most candidates did evaluate the function at the appropriate
points and were able to score well on this question.

City of London Academy 20

 The method of interval bisection was generally used correctly in part (a) although there were a number of candidates
who used linear interpolation instead and wasted time and marks in the process. The differentiation in part (b) was
usually correct, but sometimes the 1 did not disappear. The Newton Raphson technique was used efficiently and
accurately. Most candidates were able to give a suitable interval in part (c) and the evaluations were often accompanied
by a suitable comment to secure both marks.

14. Part (a) was straightforward and, on the whole, answered well. A small minority differentiated incorrectly, but the more
common error was to work in degree mode rather than in radians, so the answer 1.33 was frequently seen; this scored 3
out of the 5 marks. Part (b) lost a little “in the translation” due to poor copying of the original curve. Marking was
generous to accommodate this fact, but many candidates did not appreciate what was being asked of them and there
seemed to be a very liberal interpretation of “tangents”. Many tangents did not intersect the x-axis, and although the first
may have been drawn at the point {5, f(5)}, the second was often drawn at a random point on the curve, sometimes at
{5, f(5)} again !

15. (a) Most candidates found f(1) and f(2) correctly and a number of these went on to use linear interpolation as
required. The most common error in calculating was to deduce that 3 =4 gives =3/4. A significant number,
however, seemed not to know what linear interpolation was and carried out interval bisection, in some cases,
several times…
(b) The inability to differentiate 2x was widespread, often by Centre, although candidates who went back to
consider lny = xln2 (and not lny =ln 2 +lnx - ln4) were able to proceed. Many candidates knew the formula
x

required for Newton Raphson but there was some confusion between f(x) and f ′(x).

16. In (a) there was a disappointing response to the drawing of the graph. Most students tried to draw y = sin3x – 2x + 1 but
the asymptotic behavior was not evident and the maxima and minima were smoothed out to appear more like points of
inflexion. Very few candidates made a comment about there being only one point of intersection indicating that there
was only one root.
In part (b) the newton raphson procedure was well understood but solutions lost marks by the failure to give both
answers to 4 significant figures. A number of candidates used degrees rather than radians.

17. All candidates were familiar with the method in part (a), although not all wrote down that the change of sign implied a
root in the interval or some equivalent of this. The majority of candidates understood the procedure to be used in part (b)
and the calculations involved were generally accurately carried out. A minority of candidates did however confuse the
method with linear interpolation. Although the Newton-Raphson method is popular with candidates and well
understood, part (c) was one of the worst answered on the paper as only a minority of candidates could differentiate 3
x

x 1
. Both 3 and x 3 were commoner than the correct 3 ln 3 .
x x

18. Many candidates were familiar with the method of interpolation although several were caught out by the negative value
for f (2). Many candidates wasted time by doing more than one linear interpolation when one would have sufficed.

19. No Report available for this question.

City of London Academy 21