Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Series

Series — practice question

(a)[4]

For the expansion of $(4 + 2x)(2 - ax)^5$, the coefficient of $x^2$ is $-15$. Find the possible values of $a$.

(b)[4]

Now suppose that in the expansion of $(4 + 2x)(2 - ax)^5$, the coefficient of $x^2$ is $k$. It is also stated that exactly one value of $a$ gives this value of $k$. Find the values of $k$ and $a$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Identify the terms needed from the expansion.

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