Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Differentiation

Differentiation — practice question

The diagram represents the curve given by the parametric equations $x = 4 \sin \theta$, $y = 1 + 3 \cos(\theta + \frac{1}{6}\pi)$ for $0 \leq \theta < 2\pi$.
(i)[5]

Show that $\frac{dy}{dx}$ may be written as $k(1 + (\sqrt{3}) \tan \theta)$, where the exact value of $k$ is to be found.

(ii)[5]

Find the equation of the normal to the curve at the point where it meets the positive $y$-axis. Give your answer in the form $y = mx + c$, where the constants $m$ and $c$ are exact.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Use the correct addition formula for either $\cos(\theta+\tfrac{\pi}{6})$ or, after differentiation, $\sin(\theta+\tfrac{\pi}{6})$.

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