A curve is mapped by the equation y = 3x^3 + ax^2 + bx, where a is a constant. The value of dy/dx at x = 2 is double that of dy/dx at x = 1. A turning point occurs when x = -1. Find the values of a and b.

dy/dx = 9x^2 + 2ax + b

x = 2, dy/dx = 9(2)^2 + 2a(2) + b = 36 + 4a + b

x = 1, dy/dx = 9(1)^2 + 2a(1) + b = 9 + 2a + b

36 + 4a + b = 2(9 + 2a + b)

b = 18

x = -1, dy/dx = 0 = 9(-1)^2 + 2a(-1) + 18

9 - 2a + 18 = 0

a = 13.5

AR
Answered by Alistair R. Further Mathematics tutor

2548 Views

See similar Further Mathematics GCSE tutors

Related Further Mathematics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Rationalise and simplify (root(3) - 7)/(root(3) + 1) . Give your answer in the form a + b*root(3) where a, b are integers.


3x^3 -2x^2-147x+98=(ax-c)(bx+d)(bx-d). Find a, b, c, d if a, b, c, d are positive integers


A curve has equation y = x^2 - 7x. P is a point on the curve, and the tangent to the curve at P has gradient 1. Work out the coordinates of P.


Given y=x^3-x^2+6x-1, use diffferentiation to find the gradient of the normal at (1,5).


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