The curve y = 2x^3 - ax^2 + 8x + 2 passes through the point B where x=4. Given that B is a stationary point of the curve, find the value of the constant a.

As B is a stationary point, the value of dy/dx at this point must be equal to 0. Differentiating y gives this to be dy/dx = 6x2-2ax+8. At point Bx=4. This gives the relation 104=8a and thus gives a=13.

EH
Answered by Evan H. Maths tutor

8346 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do we solve a second order, homogeneous, linear differential equation?


Find the tangent to the curve y=x^2 +2x at point (1,3)


How do you prove the 1^2 +2^2+.....+n^2 = n/6 (n+1) (2n+1) by induction?


Calculate dy/dx of the following equation: y = 3x^3 - 6x^2 + 2x - 6


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning