QCE Maths Methods 3&4

Topic Tests
2023–2025

Mitchell Holt and Elliott Perryman

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Title: QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests

ISBN: 978-1-922818-76-8

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Preface
These Topic Tests cover the whole Maths Methods course, with practice questions for every topic.

To get the most out of this book, we'd recommend completing these tests throughout the year as you finish each
topic in class, though they can also be useful for your end-of-year revision for the external exam. It is a good idea to
attempt each test in full without looking at your notes or the solutions.

You should also sit the tests using the QCAA formula sheet, available on the QCAA website, to simulate exam
conditions. Then, set aside time to thoroughly go through your answers and compare them to our solutions.

Topics

• Unit 3 Topic 1: Logarithmic and exponential functions – 30 marks

• Unit 3 Topic 2: Calculus of functions and differentiation rules

– Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions – 20 marks

– Calculus of trigonometric functions – 20 marks

• Unit 3 Topic 3: Integrals

– Anti-differentiation and definite integrals – 40 marks

– Estimations and applications of integration – 40 marks

• Unit 4 Topic 1: Second derivative test and applications of integration

– The second derivative – 20 marks

– Applications of differentiation – 30 marks

• Unit 4 Topic 2: Trigonometric functions – 20 marks

• Unit 4 Topic 3: Discrete random variables – 20 marks

• Unit 4 Topic 4: Continuous random variables and the normal distribution – 40 marks

• Units 3&4 Mock Exam:

– Paper 1 – 60 marks
– Paper 2 – 60 marks

Each test contains a selection of especially tricky questions marked 'beware!' so you know to be extra cautious with
them), as well as a handful of questions from QCAA sample assessments. Every test will have a range of question
types – simple familiar, complex familiar, and complex unfamiliar – so you can identify your strengths and any areas
where you need to improve. There are also some technology-free questions marked with 'no calculator'.

At the back of the book, you'll find detailed explanations for every solution, including a handwritten example showing
exactly what a high-scoring student would write in the exam to achieve full marks. There is also commentary to teach
you how to approach similar questions in the future, with tips and tricks to maximise your results.
A note from the authors:

Mathematical Methods can be a hard subject. Not only are the skills required difficult to attain and maintain, but
the number of terms, definitions, and processes to remember can be daunting. Because of this, I recommend
approaching the subject not as an exercise in memorisation, but as a set of skills that you can develop over time.

Instead of memorising every step of working to solve a problem, you should approach problems with two questions
in mind: what will my solution look like and how do I get there? If you know (vaguely) what your answer will
look like, you can make purposeful steps to reach it, even if it is not a format you’re familiar with. Of course, with
practice, patterns emerge, and you can become much more comfortable solving problems and approaching the
tough complex unfamiliar problems on your exams.

Good luck and I hope these practice questions help you to perform the best you can.
– Mitchell Holt

Mathematical Methods challenges your way of thinking in maths, and is heavily reliant on basic algebra and
calculus that form the building blocks for solving almost every question you will come across. Studying for this
subject can be difficult if you haven’t got the technique. I recommend, before we even think about study, to pay
attention in class! Your first step is learning, then you refine. If you are struggling when doing practice questions,
that is a good thing. Finding a weakness in your maths is always a blessing as it allows you to focus on and
strengthen that area. Remember to reflect on these exams to correct your errors.

I found that the best piece of study material was the syllabus. It tells you everything the exams can test you
on and guides you to using your time wisely and studying only testable material. The syllabus is tightly linked with
the marks allocated to each question. They aren't necessarily consistent; some seem ridiculous and some too
obvious. My advice is to cover all your bases. My best tip would be to learn how to use your calculator. There
are some helpful features that sometimes teachers won’t know about! Graphics calculators are always the most
helpful piece of equipment (besides your brain!). Commitment is key, and after enduring a worldwide pandemic
during my graduating year, that is the biggest lesson I have taught myself.

Enjoy the tests, and best of luck for your Year 12 journey!
– Elliott Perryman
Contents

I Unit 3 Topic 1 7
Logarithmic laws and functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

II Unit 3 Topic 2 12
Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Calculus of trigonometric functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

III Unit 3 Topic 3 19

Anti-differentiation and definite integrals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Estimations and applications of integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

IV Unit 4 Topic 1 32
The second derivative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Applications of differentiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

V Unit 4 Topic 2 40
Trigonometric functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

VI Unit 4 Topic 3 44
Discrete random variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

VII Unit 4 Topic 4 47

Continuous random variables and the normal distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

VIII Units 3&4 Mock Exam 53

Paper 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Paper 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
IX Unit 3 Topic 1 72
Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

X Unit 3 Topic 2 77
Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

XI Unit 3 Topic 3 86
Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

XII Unit 4 Topic 1 99

Solutions for The second derivative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Solutions for Applications of differentiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

XIII Unit 4 Topic 2 107

Solutions for Trigonometric functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

XIV Unit 4 Topic 3 111

Solutions for Discrete random variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

XV Unit 4 Topic 4 116

Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

XVI Units 3&4 Mock Exam 123

Solutions for Paper 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Solutions for Paper 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Logarithmic laws and functions

Topic I

Unit 3 Topic 1
Logarithmic laws and functions

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator
Which of the following is the correct definition for the function f (x) shown in the graph below?

1
(0, 0)
–3 –2 –1 1 2 3 x

Unit 3 Topic 1 – Logarithmic laws and functions

–1

–2

(A) f (x) = ex + 1 [1 mark]

(B) f (x) = ex – 1
(C) f (x) = ex+1
(D) f (x) = ex+1

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator

Which of the following is the correct definition for the function f (x) shown in the graph below?

–3 –2 –1 1 2 x
–1

–2
(0, –e)
–3

–4

(A) f (x) = ex+1 [1 mark]

(B) f (x) = ex–1

(C) f (x) = –ex+1
(D) f (x) = –ex–1

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Logarithmic laws and functions

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar No Calculator

Which of the following is the correct definition for the function f (x) shown in the graph below?

1
(1.718, 0)
–2 –1 1 2 3 4 x

–1
(0, –1)

–2

–3

[1 mark]

(A) f (x) = ln(x + 1) + 1

Unit 3 Topic 1 – Logarithmic laws and functions

(B) f (x) = ln(x + 1) – 1

(C) f (x) = ln(x – 1) + 1
(D) f (x) = ln(x – 1) – 1

QUESTION 4 Simple familiar

3ab ab
The expression
2 ÷ is equal to: [1 mark]
2a2 b 64b2

96
(A)
a3
3
(B)
256a4 b2
(C) 48a–4
(D) 94a4

QUESTION 5 Simple familiar

The function f has the rule f (x) = 3 ln(2x). If f (5x) = ln(y ), then y is equal to: [1 mark]

(A) 30x
(B) 8x
(C) 125x 3
(D) 1000x 3

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Logarithmic laws and functions

Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 6 Simple familiar No Calculator QCAA 2019 Sample IA2 Paper 1 Q1
Solve each of the below equations for x.
a) x = log6 (36) [2 marks]

b) log3 (4x – 7) = 2 [2 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 1 – Logarithmic laws and functions

ex – 2 ex – 3 = 0



c) [3 marks]

d) ln x + ln(2 – x) = 0 [4 marks]

© State of Queensland (QCAA) 2019, licensed under CC BY 4.0

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Logarithmic laws and functions

QUESTION 7 Complex familiar No Calculator

Solve logx (81) = 4 for x. [2 marks]

QUESTION 8 Complex familiar No Calculator

ex–2 ex–2



Solve –3 + 2 = 6 for x. [6 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 1 – Logarithmic laws and functions

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Logarithmic laws and functions

QUESTION 9 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator

Scientists discovered a new chemical gas, archimedium, which has the unique property of changing its density
at different altitudes relative to sea level. They put the gas in a balloon and measure the radius of the balloon at
different altitudes to try to demonstrate this property, which is modelled by the equation:

a(x) = e4x – e3x – 2e2x + 8.2ex + 0.4

They find if they mix oxygen with archimedium it will change density more slowly, and therefore the radius of the
balloon changes more slowly and is modelled by the equation

o(x) = e3x – 3e2x + 4ex + 0.2

a) Find the simplest expression of the ratio of the radius of a(x) to o(x) at any given time. [3 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 1 – Logarithmic laws and functions

b) Show that the balloon of pure archimedium has a larger radius than the balloon containing the archimedium-
oxygen mixture at all altitudes. Justify your response. [3 marks]

END OF LOGARITHMIC LAWS AND FUNCTIONS TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Topic II

Unit 3 Topic 2
Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator

Find the derivative of 14xe2x . [1 mark]

(A) 28e2x
(B) 14xe2x (2 + 1)
(C) 14e2x (2x + 1)
Unit 3 Topic 2 – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

(D) 14e2x (2 + x)

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator

4x 3
Find the derivative of . [1 mark]
3x 2 + 10x

4x 3 (3x + 20)
(A)
2
3x 2 + 10x
6x
(B)
10
4x 3 (3x + 20)
(C)
9x 4 + 100x 2
12x 2
(D)
2
3x 2 + 10x

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar No Calculator

Find the derivative of y = 20(40x 2 + 3)2 . [1 mark]

(A) 40(40x 2 + 3)
(B) 40(80x)
(C) 1600x 2 (40x 2 + 3)
(D) 3200x(40x 2 + 3)

QUESTION 4 Simple familiar No Calculator

1
The tangent to the graph of y = A loge (x) where A > 0 at the point where x = e A has a y -intercept of: [1 mark]

(A) eA
(B) 0
(C) –A
(D) 1 – A

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

QUESTION 5 Simple familiar

Oil is dripping from a container. The volume, V m3 , of the oil in the container after t seconds is given by

V = –2t 3 – 6t + 18

where V > 0 and t > 0. The instantaneous rate of change of the volume (in m3 /second) of oil in the container at
time t = 1.5 is: [1 mark]

(A) 17.72
–39
(B)
2
(C) –6t 2 – 6
–21
(D)
2

Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 6 Complex familiar No Calculator

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Find the second derivative of 2(2x 2 + 4)3 in its simplest factorised form. [4 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

QUESTION 7 Simple familiar No Calculator

Find the derivative of the following with respect to x, expressing the solution in the simplest possible form:
a) y = xex [2 marks]

b) y = ln(2x + 2) [2 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 2 – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

QUESTION 8 Complex familiar

ˆ c
ex–2
Solve dx = 5 for c, correct to 2 decimal places. Assume all angles are in radians. [3 marks]
ln(2) x

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

QUESTION 9 Complex familiar

A biologist is investigating a new species of bacteria in a lab. The biologist discovers that the number of bacteria
in a culture, N, increases exponentially with time according to the rule N = k × at , where t is the time since the
biologist began the investigation, measured in hours.
When the investigation began, the biologist put 1,000 bacteria into a petri dish. 7 hours later, she observes 12,000
bacteria in the dish.
a) Find the values of k and a in exact form. [2 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

b) At what time, to the nearest minute, were there 1,300 bacteria in the dish? [2 marks]

END OF CALCULUS OF EXPONENTIAL AND LOGARITHMIC FUNCTIONS TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Calculus of trigonometric functions

Calculus of trigonometric functions

Section 1 – Short response questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar

Find the period and range of the function f (x) = 2 sin(3x) – 3. [1 mark]

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator QCAA 2019 Sample EA Paper 1 Q3

dy
If y = cos2 (3x), calculate . [3 marks]
dx
Unit 3 Topic 2 – Calculus of trigonometric functions

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar No Calculator

cos(2x)
Find the derivative of y = with respect to x, expressing the solution in the simplest possible form. [3 marks]
2x

© State of Queensland (QCAA) 2019, licensed under CC BY 4.0

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Calculus of trigonometric functions

QUESTION 4 Complex familiar No Calculator

ˆ 5π
3 cos x2


Determine the exact value of dx. [4 marks]
0 4

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Calculus of trigonometric functions

QUESTION 5 Complex familiar
Solve the following for c correct to 2 decimal places. Assume all angles are in radians.
ˆ c ˆ 4π
sin(x) sin(x)
dx = dx for 0 ≤ c ≤ 4π
0 x c x

[3 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Calculus of trigonometric functions

QUESTION 6 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator

The function y = sin(ax) – a has a local maximum/minimum at (3π , –1.5). Find all possible values of a. [6 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 2 – Calculus of trigonometric functions

END OF CALCULUS OF TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Topic III

Unit 3 Topic 3
Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator

Determine the area under the curve y = –3x 2 + 12x + 2 where 0 ≤ x ≤ 3. [1 mark]

(A) –87 units2

(B) –33 units2
(C) 33 units2
(D) 87 units2

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator
Determine the area under the curve y = 2e6x + 5 where 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. [1 mark]

e6
 
14
(A) + units2
3 3
e6
 
1
(B) – units2
3 3
e6
 
1
(C) – units2
3 3
e6
 
14
(D) – units2
3 3

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar No Calculator

Determine the area under the curve where y = 6x(x 2 + 4)2 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. [1 mark]

(A) 1 unit2
(B) 3 units2
(C) 61 units2
(D) 125 units2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 4 Complex familiar No Calculator
Calculate the area between the curves y = 6e2x and y = –6x 2 + 4x + 45 where 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. Present your answer
in the simplest factorised form. [4 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

QUESTION 5 Complex unfamiliar Beware

Calculate the area enclosed by the last two intercepts of the following functions:

y = –3x 2 + 25x – 5
and
y = 2 ln(5x) + 2

Show all working. [5 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

QUESTION 6 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator

Calculate the area enclosed by the two curves shown on the graph below.

50
y = 6x 2 – 16x + 25
40

30

20 y = –4x 2 + 14x + 25

10

–3 –2 –1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 x
–10

[6 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

QUESTION 7 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator Beware

Calculate the area enclosed by the graph and the x-axis between first and the last x-intercepts of the function
shown on the graph. Give your answer to 2 decimal places.

y
30

20
y = –x 3 – 3x 2 + 10x 10

–6 –5 –4 –3 –2 –1 1 2 3 4 5 x
–10

–20

–30

–40

[10 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

QUESTION 8 Complex familiar No Calculator

ˆ
4x
dx by considering the derivative of f (x) = ln x 2 + 1 .


Determine [2 marks]
3x 2 +3

QUESTION 9 Complex familiar No Calculator

´3
Determine the exact value of 1 ln(x)dx by considering the derivative of f (x) = x ln(x). [5 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

QUESTION 10 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator Beware

´
Determine k ln(xk ) dk by considering the derivative of f (k ) = k 2 ln(xk ) for x > 0. [5 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

END OF ANTI-DIFFERENTIATION AND DEFINITE INTEGRALS TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Estimations and applications of integration

Estimations and applications of integration

Section 1 – Short response questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar

a) Using the left-endpoint method, approximate the area under f (x) = 0.1x 2 + 2 between x = 0 and x = 3
using three rectangles. [3 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Estimations and applications of integration

b) Using the right-endpoint method, approximate the area under f (x) = x 3 + x between x = 0 and x = 1
using four rectangles. [3 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Estimations and applications of integration

QUESTION 2 Complex familiar No Calculator

Find the area shaded in the graph below using the trapezoid rule with four segments.

y
6
5
4
3 y = 4 – (x – 2)2

2
1

–2 –1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
–1
–2

[4 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Estimations and applications of integration

QUESTION 3 Complex familiar
2
a) Using strips of width 0.25, use the trapezoid rule to approximate the area under f (x) = between x = 0
1 + x2
and x = 1. [3 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Estimations and applications of integration

π
b) Given it is known the area is , use your solution from part a) to find an approximation of the value of π ,
2
correct to 3 decimal places. [2 marks]

QUESTION 4 Complex familiar

Jimmy the dairy farmer has a water trough and he wants to find the volume of it so he can calculate how much
water his cows are drinking. The trough is not a perfect semi-circular prism, but it is a uniform prism. Jimmy knows
the length of the prism is 2 meters, and he decides to find the cross-sectional area of the roughly semi-circular
face of the trough by using the trapezoid rule. He takes measurements of the depth at 5 cm intervals along the
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Estimations and applications of integration

width of the trough, which gives the following values.

Width interval along trough (cm) 0 5 10 15 20 25 30

Depth (cm) 0 11 13 14 12 10 0

Find the approximate volume of the trough, correct to 2 decimal places. [3 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Estimations and applications of integration

QUESTION 5 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator

Using the trapezoid rule, find the area between f (x) = 0.1x 2 + 1 and g(x) = 0.2x + 0.5 between x = 0 and x = 4
using four segments. [4 marks]

4 f (x)

1 g(x)

–2 –1 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
–1

–2

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Estimations and applications of integration

QUESTION 6 Simple familiar
The velocity of a ball thrown vertically into the air is represented by the function v = –0.8t + 2.6. The ball was
thrown from an initial height of 1.8 m.
a) Determine the vertical displacement of the ball after 2 seconds. [3 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Estimations and applications of integration

b) Determine the maximum height the ball achieves. [2 marks]

QUESTION 7 Simple familiar

 
3
A pendulum's displacement from the centre of its arc is measured by the function s = 4 sin 2t – where
2
0 ≤ t ≤ 2π . Determine the time(s) the pendulum has an acceleration of +7 ms–2 . [7 marks]
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Estimations and applications of integration

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QUESTION 8 Simple familiar

The acceleration of a projectile is measured by the function a = –0.5t. The projectile was ejected with an initial
velocity of 12 ms–1 .
a) Calculate the velocity of the projectile at 5 seconds. [3 marks]

b) If the projectile was found to be 51.275 m high at 5 seconds, find the initial displacement in metres, correct
to 2 decimal places. [3 marks]

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Estimations and applications of integration

END OF ESTIMATIONS AND APPLICATIONS OF INTEGRATION TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – The second derivative

Topic IV

Unit 4 Topic 1
The second derivative

Section 1 – Short response questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator

Find the second derivative with respect to x of each of the following:
√
a) y = x +2 [2 marks]

b) y = ln(2x) [2 marks]
Unit 4 Topic 1 – The second derivative

1
c) y = [2 marks]
2x + 1

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – The second derivative

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator

Sketch a graph of the function y = 4x 3 – x 4 , labelling all axis intercepts, stationary points, asymptotes, and points
of inflection. [6 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 1 – The second derivative

y

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – The second derivative

QUESTION 3 Complex unfamiliar Beware

A line intercepts the x and y axes creating a right-angle triangle. The line passes through the point (3, 6).
Determine the equation of the line that minimises the area of the triangle and prove it is a minimum using the
second derivative’s value.

(3, 6)

[8 marks]
Unit 4 Topic 1 – The second derivative

END OF THE SECOND DERIVATIVE TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Applications of differentiation

Applications of differentiation

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator

Determine the x values of the minimum and maximum points of the function y = x 3 – 3x + 1. [1 mark]

(A) Max at x = –1, min at x = 1

(B) Min at x = –1, max at x = 1
(C) Max at x = 0, min at x = 1
(D) Min at x = 0, max at x = 1

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator

Determine the maximum height of a ball that follows the parabola y = –4x 2 + 8x + 2 [1 mark]

(A) 0.75
(B) 1
(C) 4.26

Unit 4 Topic 1 – Applications of differentiation

(D) 6

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar

For the graph shown below, the gradient is negative for: [1 mark]

x
–2 –1 0 1 2 3

(A) x ∈ (–∞, 0) ∪ (2, ∞)

(B) x ∈ (–∞, –1) ∪ (2, ∞)
(C) x ∈ (0, 4)
(D) x ∈ (0, 2)

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Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 4 Simple familiar No Calculator
1 3 1
Consider f (x) = x – 2x + 7 2
2
a) Evaluate f 0 (2). [2 marks]

ˆ 4
b) Evaluate f (x)dx. [3 marks]
2
Unit 4 Topic 1 – Applications of differentiation

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Applications of differentiation

QUESTION 5 Simple familiar QCAA 2019 Sample IA2 Paper 2 Q1

ln(x)
Sketch f (x) = , indicating important features, including:
x
• The domain
• The axes intercepts
• Intervals on which the function is increasing and decreasing.
• Local maxima and/or minima.
• Horizontal and vertical asymptotes

[9 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 1 – Applications of differentiation

x

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Applications of differentiation

QUESTION 6 Complex familiar

A large box is to be built with 45 m2 of material. It is requested to be built as a rectangular prism, and for the
volume to be maximised with the available materials. One of the square ends is open, with no covering. Determine
what dimensions would give the greatest volume and prove that this is the maximum volume. [6 marks]
Unit 4 Topic 1 – Applications of differentiation

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QUESTION 7 Complex familiar

A soft drink can is to be made to hold 350 ml of liquid. The company wants to minimise the amount of material to
make this cylindrical can. What are the dimensions and the amount of material required for a single can? Prove
this is a minimum by determining the second derivative’s value. [7 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 1 – Applications of differentiation

END OF APPLICATIONS OF DIFFERENTIATION TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Trigonometric functions

Topic V

Unit 4 Topic 2
Trigonometric functions

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar

Find the area of this triangle to the nearest cm2 .

60◦

8 cm 12 cm
Unit 4 Topic 2 – Trigonometric functions

[1 mark]

(A) 582 cm2

(B) 1003 cm2
(C) 48 cm2
(D) 1023 cm2

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar

Find θ to the nearest degree.

11.5 cm 7.5 cm

14 cm

[1 mark]

(A) 1◦
(B) 32◦
(C) 55◦
(D) 92◦

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Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 3 Complex familiar
A radio tower stands in a field. Point A is directly South 190m away from the base of the tower (point T). Point B is
115m to the North East of point A, with the angle ABT being a magnitude of 73◦ . The viewing angle of elevation
is 34◦ from point B. Determine the height of the tower. [7 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 2 – Trigonometric functions

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QUESTION 4 Complex familiar QCAA 2019 Sample EA Paper 2 Q14

Solve for the two possible triangles using the information below:

A = 25◦ , a = 12, and c = 27

. [4 marks]
Unit 4 Topic 2 – Trigonometric functions

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Trigonometric functions

QUESTION 5 Complex unfamiliar

Two ships set sail at constant speeds from a port. Ship A leaves first and sails at a bearing of 035◦ T. It travels for
32 minutes at 36 km/h before anchoring. Ship B sets sail at 140◦ T, and travels until it is directly south of ship A’s
anchoring location. It then sets anchor itself.
a) What speed was ship B travelling at if it took 45 minutes to travel before it anchored? [4 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 2 – Trigonometric functions

b) If ship A were to set sail at the same speed it had from port, travelling directly south, how long would it take
(in minutes) for it to meet ship B? [3 marks]

END OF TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Discrete random variables

Topic VI

Unit 4 Topic 3
Discrete random variables

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator QCAA 2019 Sample EA Paper 1 Q1

The random variable x is binomially distributed with 10 trials and a probability of success equal to 0.25 at each
attempt. The value of P(X ≥ 1) is equal to: [1 mark]
 10
1
(A)
4
 10
3
(B)
4
 10
1
(C) 1 –
4
Unit 4 Topic 3 – Discrete random variables

 10
3
(D) 1 –
4

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator

A fair coin was flipped three times. Dave had placed his bet on the coin showing heads at least twice. What is the
probability that Dave wins his bet? [1 mark]
(A) 0.125
(B) 0.25
(C) 0.375
(D) 0.5

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar

A test was set with 6 multiple choice questions. Each question has four possible options, only one of which is
correct. Jeremy guessed every answer. The pass mark is at least 3 correct answers. What is the probability that
Jeremy passed the test? [1 mark]
(A) 0.17
(B) 0.30
(C) 0.70
(D) 0.83

QUESTION 4 Simple familiar

A discrete random variable X has the probability function Pr(X = k ) = (1 – p)k p, where k is a non-negative integer.
Pr(X > 1) is equal to: [1 mark]
(A) 1 – p – p2
(B) (1 – p)2
(C) p – p2
(D) 2p – p2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Discrete random variables

QUESTION 5 Simple familiar

Anna and Bella regularly play tennis matches with each other. The probability of Anna winning on any given day
is 0.7. However, the probability of Anna winning and it is a rainy day is only 0.3. If the probability of rain on any
day is 0.4, what is the probability that Bella wins on a day without rain? [1 mark]
(A) 0.1
(B) 0.2
(C) 0.3
(D) 0.6

QUESTION 6 Simple familiar

2√
Z ∼ Bi(10a, a) where a < 0.5 is a binomial random variable with a standard deviation of 2. Which of the
5
following is a possible value of a? [1 mark]
(A) 0.2000
(B) 0.2804
(C) 0.3251
(D) 0.4000

Section 2 – Short response questions

Unit 4 Topic 3 – Discrete random variables

QUESTION 7 Simple familiar No Calculator
You continuously pick cards from a deck, notating a red suit as a success and a black suit as a failure. After you
pick them out, you place the card to the side. Is this a valid use of binomial distributions to model the outcomes?
Why/why not? Prove how it is valid or show how it can be fixed. [4 marks]

QUESTION 8 Simple familiar

A footballer was practicing shooting at a goal. He had 20 practice shots. However, each time he shot, there was
only a 20% chance of him scoring.
a) What is the expected number of goals he scores? [2 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Discrete random variables

b) What is the variance? [2 marks]

c) What is the standard deviation? [2 marks]

QUESTION 9 Complex familiar

8 marbles are in a bag. There are red marbles and blue marbles, but it is unknown how many of each. There is
Unit 4 Topic 3 – Discrete random variables

approximately a 42.19% chance that if you were to pick a marble (and replace it after) 3 times, all 3 times it would
be red. Determine the number of red marbles in the bag. [4 marks]

END OF DISCRETE RANDOM VARIABLES TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

Topic VII

Unit 4 Topic 4
Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator

A survey was done on students in grade 7. They were asked how many lollies they consumed the day before.
These are the results:

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

Determine the percentage of participants that consumed fewer than 6 lollies. [1 mark]

(A) 60%
(B) 70%
(C) 75%
(D) 76%

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar

Below are some students' results for different subjects.

Standard
Student Subject Mean Score
deviation
Teish Health 74 5 80
Hayden Maths 75 4 81
Gemma History 82 4.2 87
Daniel Business 84 3.6 90
Sharon P.E. 90 8 94

Using z scores, determine who performed the best and worst compared to their cohort respectively. [1 mark]

(A) Hayden and Gemma

(B) Daniel and Sharon
(C) Daniel and Teish
(D) Hayden and Sharon

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 3 Complex familiar

a) Determine the limit of a (to 2 decimal places) to make this a probability density function:

–4x 2 + 6x,

0≤x ≤a
y =
otherwise, 0

Show all working of the substitution method. [5 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

Using your answer to part a), calculate the following:

b) Expected value [3 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

c) The variance [5 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

d) The standard deviation [1 mark]

QUESTION 4 Simple familiar No Calculator

The probability density function of the continuous random variable X is:
1

 x2 0 ≤ x ≤ a


 2


f (x) = 1
a a≤x ≤b
2







0 otherwise

where b > a > 0.

a) If f (x) is continuous for 0 ≤ x ≤ b, show that the value of a is 1. [2 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

b) What is the value of b? [3 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

QUESTION 5 Complex unfamiliar

The function below has a gradient of –2 at x = 2.

–2x 3 + 5x 2 + bx,

0≤x ≤a
y =
otherwise, 0

Determine the value of b, and determine the value of a that would make this a probability density function. [7 marks]

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QUESTION 6 Simple familiar QCAA 2019 Sample IA3 Paper 2 Q6

A random sample of 120 recent graduates found that 15 are unemployed.
a) Calculate an approximate 90% confidence interval (to 4 decimal places) for the proportion of all graduates
who fail to find a job. Interpret your result. [3 marks]

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

b) Determine the sample size required to achieve a margin of error of 2% for the approximate 90% confidence
interval. [2 marks]

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QUESTION 7 Complex unfamiliar Beware

The growth in population of a certain bacteria in an incubator can be explained by a function developed by
scientists, P(t) = xe0.2x + 0.017 0 ≤ t ≤ ∞ However, when scientists left the bacteria at room temperature, they
found that it can be described by the same function until the 2 hour mark, where it keeps the same rate of growth
as the rate at 2 hours infinitely. This is shown below:

xe0.2x + 0.017 0 ≤ t ≤ 2
P(t) = ? 2≤t≤∞
otherwise 0


where P is the population in thousands, and t is the time in hours.

Calculate the total number of the bacteria present after 24 hours when left at room temperature to the nearest
thousand. [7 marks]
Unit 4 Topic 4 – Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

END OF CONTINUOUS RANDOM VARIABLES AND THE NORMAL DISTRIBUTION TEST

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

Topic VIII

Units 3&4 Mock Exam

Paper 1

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar No Calculator

Determine the derivative of the function y = x sin(3x 2 ) + 5x 3 . [1 mark]

(A) 6x 2 cos 3x 2 2



+ sin 3x
2 + sin 3x 2 + 15x 2



(B) x cos 3x
(C) sin(6x) + 15x 2
(D) 6x 2 cos 3x 2 + sin 3x 2 + 15x 2

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar No Calculator

A random variable g is binomially distributed. It has a probability of success on each trial of 0.75 with a total of 20
trials. What is the value of P(g < 1)? [1 mark]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

(A) 20(0.25)20
(B) 15(0.25)20
(C) 5(0.25)20
(D) (0.25)20

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar No Calculator

Calculate the expected value of the probability density function below.

3x 2 ,

0≤x ≤1
y =
otherwise, 0

3 [1 mark]
(A)
4
6
(B)
2
3
(C)
3
3
(D)
5

QUESTION 4 Simple familiar No Calculator

A paddock needs to be fenced as a quadrilateral to allow for a farmer’s rise in livestock population. He has a total
of 50 m of fencing leftover from a previous job and wants to save money by using it. He wants to maximise the
area of the paddock to get the most area out of his supplies. Determine what the length and width of the paddock
should be to satisfy the farmer’s requirements. [1 mark]

(A) l = 20 m, w = 5 m
(B) l = 25 m, w = 25 m
(C) l = 12.5 m, w = 12.5 m
(D) l = 30 m, w = 10 m

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

QUESTION 5 Simple familiar No Calculator

Solve for the area under the curve of f (x) = –4x 3 + 3x 2 + 9x + 2 for 0 ≤ x ≤ 2. [1 mark]

(A) –14
(B) –46
(C) 14
(D) 46

QUESTION 6 Simple familiar No Calculator

Determine the value of x in the equation loga (x 2 ) = loga (4). [1 mark]

(A) x = 2
(B) x = ±2
(C) x = 4
(D) x = ±4

QUESTION 7 Simple familiar No Calculator

Find the derivative of y = x sin(x) with respect to x. [1 mark]
dy
(A) = sin(x) + x cos(x)
dy
dy
(B) = x 2 sin(x)
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

dy
dy
(C) = cos(x)
dy
dy
(D) = 1 + cos(x)
dy

QUESTION 8 Simple familiar No Calculator

1
Determine the value of x in the equation cos(x) = . [1 mark]
2
π
(A) x =
2
π
(B) x =
3
π
(C) x =
4
(D) x is undefined

QUESTION 9 Simple familiar

ˆ 
x2

Determine the integral +3 . [1 mark]
2

(A) x 3 + 3x + C
x3
(B) + 3x + C
4
x3
(C) + 3x + C
6
3x 3
(D) + 3x + C
2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

QUESTION 10 Simple familiar No Calculator

x4 x3 2x 1
Find the x value(s) for the point(s) of inflection of y = – + – . [1 mark]
12 3 3 6
(A) x = 0, x = 1
(B) x = 2
(C) x = 0
(D) x = 0, x = 2

Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 11 Simple familiar No Calculator
Determine which student below achieved the highest relative mark using z values. Show all working.

Student's
Student Subject µ σ mark
Digital
Xavier 75 3 84
Solutions
Phoenix Methods 80 4 84
Julie Accounting 67 2 73
Industrial
Graham 69 5 79
Technology

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

Tracy Biology 90 1 94

[3 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

QUESTION 12 Simple familiar No Calculator

x2


Rearrange the equation ln + ln(2) = ln(y ) – ln(x) + 2 so that y is in terms of x. [4 marks]

QUESTION 13 Simple familiar No Calculator

Sketch the graph of y = x2 – 3, labelling all axes intercepts, zeroes, stationary points, and points of inflection and
their nature. [4 marks]
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

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QUESTION 14 Complex familiar No Calculator

√
An engineer wants to develop a triangle with an area of 34.64m2 20 3m2 . The sides b and c are in a ratio of

4:5. Determine the sides b and c of the triangle below.

60◦

[3 marks]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

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QUESTION 15 Complex familiar No Calculator

Determine the gradient of the function f (x) = x sin(4x) + x 2 cos(5x) + 4x 3 at x = π Give your answer in the simplest
factorised form. [4 marks]
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

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QUESTION 16 Complex familiar No Calculator Beware

A function has the general form y =  ax 3 + bx 2
 + cx + d. It has a local maximum at x = –1 and a local minimum at
16
x = 2, and passes through the point 4, . Find the values of a, b, c, and d. [4 marks]
3

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

QUESTION 17 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator
A botanist measures the height of a particular shrub over 5 years and finds the height of the shrub H (in metres)
at time t (in years) is H = 4 + 8 log4 (t).
a) Find the height of the shrub after 1 year. [1 mark]

b) Find the time it takes the shrub to reach a height of 32 m. [4 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

QUESTION 18 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator Beware

A very expensive and popular restaurant is trying to determine how many staff should be rostered on for
afternoons. To do this, the owner takes sales from over the week and finds the average profits for each hour
from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on a typical day. He develops a mathematical model of:

P(t) = t 3 – 6t 2 + 5t + 10 0≤t≤5

where P is the profit in thousands of dollars, and t is the time in hours from 12:00 p.m.
a) How much money does the store lose between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.? [5 marks]
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

b) At 12:00 p.m., is the restaurant on a positive $/hour? If so, is this rate still increasing or is it decreasing?
Show all working. [5 marks]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

c) At what point does the $/hour in the afternoon change from decreasing to increasing, and what is the profit
at that certain point? [4 marks]

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QUESTION 19 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator

a ln(2x)
Find the value of a such that y = has a global maximum of 5. [5 marks]
x
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 1

QUESTION 20 Complex unfamiliar No Calculator QCAA 2019 Sample IA2 Paper 1 Q8

A particle
√ is moving in a straight line. The velocity of the particle varies with displacement according to the rule
v = 4 + 4s, where v is velocity ms–1 and s is the displacement in metres. Calculate the displacement at t = 2 if
the initial displacement is 0. [4 marks]

END OF MOCK EXAM PAPER 1

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

Paper 2

Section 1 – Multiple choice questions

QUESTION 1 Simple familiar

Determine θ in the triangle below to the nearest degree.

15

12

[1 mark]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

(A) 51◦
(B) 52◦
(C) 100◦
(D) 101◦

QUESTION 2 Simple familiar

An experiment was repeated many times to get a larger number of results. However, the experiment only had
a 70% chance of succeeding every time it was run. If there were 50 trials, what is the chance that 35 or more
succeeded? [1 mark]
(A) 0.12
(B) 0.45
(C) 0.57
(D) 0.89

QUESTION 3 Simple familiar

Calculate the z score of a normal distribution where the mean is 75, the variance is 1.7321, and x is 79.5. [1 mark]
(A) –3.4
(B) –1.5
(C) 1.5
(D) 3.4

QUESTION 4 Simple familiar Beware

3
Integrate the function f (x) = – x 3 – 20x 2 + 100x + 6 over the domain 0 ≤ x ≤ 4.6. [1 mark]
8
(A) 394.7
(B) 378.7
(C) 1692.5
(D) 1776.5

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QUESTION 5 Simple familiar

Calculate the standard deviation of a binomial distribution that has 30 trials and each trial has a 37% chance of
succeeding. [1 mark]
(A) 2.6
(B) 3.3
(C) 7.0
(D) 11.1

QUESTION 6 Simple familiar

ˆ 2
Determine sin(ln(x)) dx, correct to 2 decimal places. [1 mark]
0
(A) 0.13
(B) –0.13
(C) 1.41
(D) –1.41

QUESTION 7 Simple familiar

Find the standard deviation of a normally distributed variable if p = 0.2 and n = 100. [1 mark]
(A) 16
(B) 4
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

(C) 0.04
(D) 0.0016

QUESTION 8 Simple familiar

Solve for the standard deviation of a normally distributed variable if z = 0.5 and the approximate confidence
interval for p is (0.05, 0.07). [1 mark]
(A) 0.01
(B) 0.02
(C) 0.06
(D) None of the above

QUESTION 9 Simple familiar

Solve ln(x – 2) × ln(x + 1) = 4 for x, correct to 2 decimal places. [1 mark]
(A) x = –4.91, x = 9.91
(B) x = –59.60
(C) x = 8.11
(D) x = 8.49

QUESTION 10 Simple familiar Beware

sin(x)
Find all local maximums and minimums of y = + ln(x) between x = 0 and x = 5. [1 mark]
x
(A) x = 2.33, x = π
(B) x = π , x = 3.67
(C) x = 2.07, x = 4.49
3π
(D) x =
2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

Section 2 – Short response questions

QUESTION 11 Simple familiar
Determine the possible areas of the triangle below to 2 decimal places.

47◦

7.5 cm

10 cm

[4 marks]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

QUESTION 12 Simple familiar

What is the mean of the binomial distribution with a probability of each event succeeding being 63% and the
standard deviation being 1.8699? [3 marks]
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

QUESTION 13 Complex familiar

Calculate the median of the probability density function:

 x3
f (x) = – – x + 2, 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.59008
5
otherwise, 0

[4 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

QUESTION 14 Complex familiar Beware

A binomial distribution can be described by the equation of:

5.7819 × 10–5 = P(X = r ) = 2.9426 × 1021 × 0.74r (1 – 0.74)75–r

Determine the number of successes, r , of this binomial distribution. [4 marks]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

QUESTION 15 Simple familiar
A politician polls a random sample of 263 people and finds that 122 plan to vote for him. Determine a 95%
approximate confidence interval for the proportion of the population that will vote for him. [4 marks]

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

QUESTION 16 Complex familiar

cos(x)
Sketch the graph of y = for 0 ≤ x ≤ 5, labelling:
ln(x)
• All stationary points and/or points of inflection
• All axes intercepts
• All asymptotes
• The domain
• The range
[6 marks]
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

QUESTION 17 Complex unfamiliar QCAA 2019 Sample IA2 Paper 2 Q6

Determine the line y = mx that divides the area under the curve y = 2x(2 – x) over [0, 2] into two regions of equal
area. Justify your reasoning. [7 marks]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

© State of Queensland (QCAA) 2019, licensed under CC BY 4.0

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

QUESTION 18 Complex unfamiliar

Timmy is practising his batting for the upcoming cricket trials. His friend bowls to him, but Timmy slips and hits
the ball straight up from the ground. The ball is recorded to have an initial velocity of 30 m/s. Luckily, the friend
1
bowling to Timmy studies Physics. He recalls the equation s = ut + at 2 , where s is displacement in metres, u is
2
initial velocity in m/s, t is time in seconds, and a is acceleration in m/s2 . Timmy stands at 1.7 m tall and does not
want to get hit by the ball when it comes back down.
Calculate the amount of time Timmy has to move out of the way before the ball hits him on the head.
Assume that the acceleration due to gravity is 10 m/s2 downwards. [4 marks]
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

QUESTION 19 Complex unfamiliar QCAA 2019 Sample IA2 Paper 2 Q8

Terry is an avid skier. The equation that best models his favourite run is given by H = 1.8e–x + 0.43 where H is
the height in kilometres above sea level and x represents the cross-sectional width of the run in kilometres. The
run terminates at a place that is 1 km above sea level. The cover of the snow on the mountain is 2 m (assume
this cover is constant across the entire run).
If the run is 300 m wide, calculate the volume of snow on the run. [4 marks]

© State of Queensland (QCAA) 2019, licensed under CC BY 4.0

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

QUESTION 20 Complex unfamiliar

A farmer wants to build a fence to create a paddock for her chickens. With the x and y axis as two of the fence’s
borders, she wants to maximise the area of the paddock, as a river restricts the area. The river is modelled with
the function:
f (x) = –0.02x 2 – 5x + 60

The paddock must be rectangular.

a) Determine the maximum area of the paddock, and the total perimeter (including the axes). [6 marks]

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Paper 2

b) Determine the percentage of space that was not utilised. [4 marks]

END OF MOCK EXAM PAPER 2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions

Topic IX

Unit 3 Topic 1
Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions
Question 1: B
From the provided graph, we know that:

• (0,0) is a point.
• There is a horizontal asymptote at y = –1.

As the graph of y = ex has an asymptote at y = 0 and passes through the point (0,1), it can be deduced that y = ex has
been translated down by 1, making option B the correct answer.
The explanations for fairly simple multiple choice questions like this will walk you through these thought processes, but
you will probably be able to answer these quite quickly, especially towards the end of the year after a bit of practice.
For example, finding the equation of a graph can be a fairly simple matter of a process of elimination, or you may even
be able to find the answer by inspection within a couple of seconds. But if not, don't worry – follow the step-by-step
Unit 3 Topic 1 – Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions

instructions we've detailed here, and with a bit of practice, you'll get much faster in no time!

Question 2: C
From the provided graph, we know that:

• (0, –e) is a point.

• There is a horizontal asymptote at x = 0.

We can immediately see from the graph that f (x) has been flipped across the x-axis, so we know the function must have
a negative dilation factor, which means that the solution must be C or D. Because the y -intercept has been moved away
from 0, we know the function must have been translated to the left, leaving the solution as option C.
Eliminating obviously incorrect options is a great strategy in Methods, as even if you're feeling the time pressure or
you're not entirely sure what the correct answer is, you can still make educated guesses based on what you know.

Question 3: B
From the provided graph, we know that:

• (0, –1) is a point.

• There is a horizontal asymptote at x = –1.

As the graph of y = ln(x) usually has an x-intercept at (1,0) and a vertical asymptote at x = 0, we know that the graph
of y = ln(x) has been translated down 1 and to the left 1 to give f (x). Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Question 4: C
Make sure you use your calculator to help you simplify this expression, rather than doing it by hand – this is a lot more
efficient and significantly reduces any chances of error. To do this, simply enter the expression as it appears into your
48
calculator on the main 'calculator' page. Your calculator should automatically simplify it to 4 , and you should recall from
a
your knowledge of exponential laws that this can be expressed with a negative power as 48a–4 , which means option C
is our answer.

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions

Question 5: E
We are given that f (x) = 3 ln(2x). We can thus evaluate f (5x) by hand, though you can also use your calculator if you
find that to be quicker.

f (5x) = 3 ln(2(5x))
f (5x) = 3 ln(10x)

We now need to rearrange f (5x) into the form given in the question: ln(y ). We will do this by using the following log law:
loga mk = k loga m.
 
f (5x) = ln (10x)3
 
f (5x) = ln 1000x 3

Now that f (5x) is in the correct form, we can see that y = 1000x 3 .

Question 6 a)

Unit 3 Topic 1 – Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions

We can use a log law to rewrite an equivalent version of the question as an exponential equation to make it easier for us
to solve tech-free. We can then rewrite 36 as 62 and easily solve for x.
Even though it is generally easy to solve the problem in your head and just write the answer, because it is a 2 mark
question (as opposed to a 1 mark question), you must show this first line of working to receive full marks.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for rewriting the logarithmic equation as an exponential equation

• 1 mark for stating the correct answer

Question 6 b)

Once the log equation has been rewritten as an exponential equation using a log law, it is very easy to solve for x using
simple algebra.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for rewriting the logarithmic equation as an exponential equation

• 1 mark for stating the correct answer.

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Question 6 c)

The main trick to solving this problem is realising we can use the null factor theorem to find a solution within each
expression. Past this, the solution is quite simple.
Remember that leaving the solution in the natural log form is perfectly fine in a tech-free examination if it is the simplest
form the answer can be in.

Mark allocation:
Unit 3 Topic 1 – Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions

• 1 mark for stating the null factor theorem was used

• 1 mark for finding the exponential equations
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 6 d)

For this problem, we can immediately simplify the expression on the left-hand side of the given equation by applying the
log law for adding log expression of the same base. From there, we can use another log law to write the logarithmic
equation as an exponential equation. After simplifying this, we are left with a quadratic which, when factorised, gives a
very neat solution!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for simplifying the logs into one expression

• 1 mark for rewriting the logarithmic equation as an exponential equation
• 1 mark for factorising
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 7:

This problem requires the same techniques to solve as the preceding questions, only the log base is the unknown being
solved for in this problem. Here, 81 could be expressed as either 92 or 34 . As the other side of the equation was x 4 , 34
was the natural choice to allow for a fast solution.
Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for rewriting the logarithmic equation as an exponential equation
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 8:

Unit 3 Topic 1 – Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions

For this question, the key is largely ignoring the exponent and treating the problem as a quadratic equation until the null
factor theorem has been applied. If this is confusing, you can always temporarily let the tricky “quadratic variable” equal
some easy variable, such as a (though never use a variable that has already appeared in the problem!). An example of
the first part of the solution using this method would be as follows:

(ex–2 – 3)(ex–2 + 2) = 6
Let ex–2 = a (don't forget to write this line so the assessor knows what you're doing!)
⇒ (a – 3)(a + 2) = 6
a2 – a – 6 = 6
a2 – a – 12 = 0
∴ (a – 4)(a + 3) = 0

Then, once a has been solved for, you can substitute ex–2 back in for a to finish the solution (remembering the problem
asks to solve for x). From finding the two separate equations, the only trick to watch out for is that one of the equations
has no solutions. In this case, there is no solution to one of the equations because logb c has no solutions for c ∈
(–∞, 0].
For these questions where two equations have been solved for the same variable, always remember to restate the final
solution at the bottom so the marker is not confused and has no excuse not to give you full marks!
Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for expanding the brackets
• 1 mark for factorising (with one side being equal to zero)
• 1 mark for using the null factor theorem
• 1 mark each for solving/finding no solutions for each equation (2 marks total)
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 9 a)

This a complex unfamiliar question that, while not mathematically hard, the difficulty is conceptual and, in an exam, you
can sink a lot of time into thinking about how to solve it. Because part a) is only worth 3 marks, this is probably one of
the questions in an exam you would skip until the end unless you can figure out how to solve it during perusal time.
The key to this question is recalling the definition of a ratio. We mostly see a ratio of a to b expressed as a : b, but
Unit 3 Topic 1 – Solutions for Logarithmic laws and functions

remember it can also be expressed as a/b. We can use this here to allow us to express the ratio in the simplest possible
form by using polynomial long division. This, like Question 8, is a situation where we can use a substitution to make it
easier to work with (in this case the natural choice would be to substitute for ex ).

Mark allocation:

• 2 marks for correct long division

• 1 mark for correct answer

Question 9 b)

This question requires an application of a thorough understanding of mathematics to write a solution. Firstly, we can
use mathematical logic to show that the statement in the question is true. We can use the ratio from part a) and the
a
knowledge that if > 1, then a > b to formulate a solution. Then, we use our knowledge of the exponential equation to
b
show that a > b by using the vertical asymptote of an exponential equation. Remember in questions like this to always
write a therefore statement at the bottom, just in case there is a mark assigned for it (as there is in this question).

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for formulation

• 1 mark for interpreting the features of an exponential equation to justify solution
• 1 mark for concluding a(X ) > o(x)

END OF LOGARITHMIC LAWS AND FUNCTIONS SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Topic X

Unit 3 Topic 2
Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions
Question 1: C
Since this question asks us to derive a function multiplied by a function, we must use the product rule:

dy
= uv 0 + vu 0
dx

We let u = 14x and v = e2x . We then derive both and substitute all values into the product formula:

u 0 = 14, v 0 = 2e2x

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

dy
= 14x × 2e2x + e2x × 14
dx
= 28xe2x + 14e2x (simplify by factorising)
2x
= 14e (2x + 1)

This answer is presented in option C, so that's our answer!

It is important not to rush into deriving functions, as little mistakes can be made so easily. Not realising the product rule
is required for a question like this is an easy mistake to make, and exams are sometimes quite unforgiving – the answer
you arrive at by following the wrong approach will likely be one of the incorrect multiple choice options. Before we derive,
we need to make sure we are using the right rule and that we're finding what the question wants us to find. Don't just
start making calculations until you end up with one of the multiple choice options, as it may be the wrong one put there
to distract you!

Question 2: A
Since this question asks us to derive a function divided by another function, we use the quotient rule:

dy vu 0 – uv 0
=
dx v2

We let u = 4x 3 and v = 3x 2 + 10x. We then derive both and substitute all values into the quotient formula.

u 0 = 12x 2 , v 0 = 6x + 10
3x 2 + 10x 12x 2 – 4x 3 (6x + 10)


dy
=
2
dx 3x 2 + 10x
36x 4 + 120x 3 – 24x 4 + 40x 3



=
2
3x 2 + 10x
12x 4 + 80x 3
=
2 (simplify by factorising)
3x 2 + 10x
4x(3x + 20)
=
(3x + 10)2

This gives us option A as our answer.

Again, determining which differentiation rule to use is our first step towards success. This question could also be done
using the product rule, bringing the function on the bottom to the top with a negative power. Something else to be mindful
of is which side of the subtraction symbol the derivatives go. u 0 always comes first with the quotient rule, which you can
see above in the formula.

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Question 3: D
Since this question asks us to derive a function that is all to the power (along with a coefficient) we must use the chain
rule to derive it.
dy dy du
= ×
dx du dx
We let y = 20u 2 and u = 40x 2 + 3. We then derive both and multiply them together.

dy  
= 40u = 40 40x 2 + 3
du
du
= 80x
dx
dy  
= 40 40x 2 + 3 × 80x
dx  
= 3200x 40x 2 + 3
Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Whenever you see a function in brackets all to the power of 2 or another index in a question like this, you can usually
assume you need to use the chain rule. Also, if it is a multiple choice question, you don't need to show your working, so
you can do some of these steps in your head (provided you're careful!).
To put it simply, we multiply the coefficient outside the brackets by the derivative of the function inside the brackets, then
multiply the new coefficient by the power of the brackets and drop that power by 1. However, if working is required, it is
better to use the formula and set it out properly, as shown above.

Question 4: D
Tackling this question by hand:
1
 
y = A loge e A
1
=A×
A
1
 
= 1 ∴ point at: eA,1
dy A A
gradient of tangent: = = 1
dx x eA
equation of tangent: y – y1 = m (x – x1 )
A  1

y –1= 1
x – e A

eA
A A 1
y = 1
x + 1 – 1 × eA
eA eA
A
y = 1
x + (1 – A)
eA
We can see that the y -intercept will be 1 – A, which matches option D.

Question 5: A
Do not confuse the 'average rate of change' with the 'instantaneous rate of change' that we are asked for here. To find
an instantaneous rate of change of a function at a point, we need to differentiate that function and then substitute the
value of the point. The derivative of V = –2t 3 – 6t + 18 is V 0 = –6t 2 – 6. (You can use your calculator or do this by hand).
–39
We then substitute the point t = 1.5 into the derivative to get V 0 = .
2

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Question 6:

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Because this question asks us to find the second derivative, we must derive the function and then derive the derivative.
The first step requires us to use the chain rule. Make sure to fully state your working for this.
We then derive both and multiply them together, and then derive again, but it isn't as simple as using the chain rule. We
now have a function multiplied by another function, so we must use the product rule to determine the answer.
We let u = 24x and v = (2x 2 + 4)2 , derive both, and substitute everything into the equation. We then have to use the
chain rule to derive v .
This question shows the importance of showing your working, as there are marks allocated specifically for this. For
example, one of the practice exams in 2020 featured a simple question worth 2 marks, and if you did not write "using
the chain rule" or words to that effect, you could not have earned full marks! The same is true for this question – if the
rule is not written out and you just jumped straight into a derivative, you would have lost a mark.
Writing out all your working is very important, and a simple step to take to ensure all your marks are given. For the
second half of this question, it is again easy to fall into the trap of thinking it is a repeat of the chain rule, so always make
sure to double check which rules or formulas you need to use.

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for stating and correctly using chain rule
• 1 mark for calculating the first derivative
• 1 mark for calculating second derivative
• 1 mark for fully factorising

Question 7 a)

QCAA decided in 2020 that, to receive a mark (if allocated) for using a differentiation rule, you had to explicitly write
something to the effect of "using the rule," instead of just showing substitution of the rule. The first line of
working above would be an example of an implicit use of the rule, but we still need to write "using the product rule"
alongside our working.
The other trick to this question is ensuring the answer is expressed in the simplest possible form, which means we
should factorise out the ex here.

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for stating the differentiation rule used
• 1 mark for correct (factorised) answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Question 7 b)

The trick to getting full marks here is the same as part a). Note that you do not need to use the expanded method (with
substitution) for the chain rule to receive the mark for using it. If you can derive 2x + 2 in your head and then apply the
chain rule, you might as well because QCAA does not deduct marks for it, and it saves you time!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for stating the differentiation rule used

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 8:

´ x ex–2
We can graph this function on a graphics calculator (with c as the independent variable) by inputting y = ln(2) dx =
x
5 (noting that the upper bound on the integral is now 5). Now, to find the point where the function is equal to 5, we also
graph y = 5 and then use the intersection function, which will give the x value and therefore the desired c value of 4.92
(correct to 2 decimal places).
For these tech-active questions, you should be using your calculator wherever possible to save on time. Because it is
tech-active, the mark allocation will take the use of a calculator into consideration, so you will earn marks based on
your efficient use of the calculator – don't waste time writing extra lines of working out by hand. Just write the steps you
followed as you work through the question with your calculator.
Finally, your assessments and exams will usually tell you how many decimal places to round your answers to, but if
you encounter a question that doesn't, just use common sense (2 decimal places is a good default option). If you have
rounded the answer, always note this in your final line, and never round before the final line. Rounding numbers earlier
in your working may mean you end up with an incorrect solution at the end!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for graphing the integral with the upper bound as the variable
• 1 mark for graphing the second function and finding the intersection
• 1 mark for correct answer with correct rounding

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Question 9 a)

We need to use the information given to us in the stem of the question to form two simultaneous exponential equations
which, when solved, give the values of k and a.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the correct value of k

• 1 mark for finding the correct value of a

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of exponential and logarithmic functions

Question 9 b)

Now that we have values for k and a from part a) of this question, we see that the rule for the growth of this particular
bacteria is governed by the equation above. This is a fairly simple substitution, though always double check the final
form of our answer. Here, we had to give the time taken in minutes, which means multiplying our decimal answer by 60.

• 1 mark for setting up the exponential equation

• 1 mark for the correct answer

END OF CALCULUS OF EXPONENTIAL AND LOGARITHMIC FUNCTIONS SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

Question 1:

This question requires you to consider the impact that the above transformations have on the period and range of a
normal sin(x) function. To calculate the period of sin(x), we divide the natural period of the sine curve (2π ) by the
2π
coefficient of x, which gives us .
3
Then, to find the range, be sure to consider the effect of the –3. A graph will be affected by changes to the amplitude
and translations up or down, so the range of this function can be calculated as follows:

Range of sin(3x) = [–1, 1]

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

Range of 2 sin(3x) = [2(–1), 2(1)]

Range of 2 sin(3x) – 3 = [–2 – 3, 2 – 3]
= [–5, –1]

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for the correct period and range

Question 2:

To make it easier to understand and see, we can change the orientation of the square:

cos2 (3x) = (cos(3x))2

This makes it much easier to see what to do. We can then apply the chain rule here, derive both u and v , and substitute
into the chain rule formula.
Trigonometric functions can make differentiating seem daunting at times, but we must remember the same basic rules
can help us, like the chain rule here. A lot of students get scared by things like cosine squared, but simply rearranging it
makes the question look a lot simpler.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for using chain rule

• 1 mark for calculating derivative
• 1 mark for simplifying answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

Question 3:

One thing to look out for in this question is that when differentiating sin(2x), you are using the chain rule, although it's
easy to do it implicitly without realising. Don't forget to write that you are using the chain rule at the top of the solution to
ensure you don't miss any marks. Because the answer must be given in the simplest form, it should be left as a fraction
at the end.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for stating the quotient rule was used

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

• 1 mark for stating the chain rule was used
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 4:

3
On the first line of working, you may find it easier to factor the out of the integral (as this sample solution has
4
done), which is allowed because it is a constant, not a variable. When solving after substituting, we can use the cyclic
nature of sinusoidal functions to rewrite the angles in the form –π ≤ x ≤ π , which allows us to use our knowledge of
trigonometric ratios to find a solution. For questions like these, you should always make sure your communication is
clear so the marker can easily follow your logic and will have no trouble identifying key steps that are awarded marks.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for correct integration

• 1 mark for correct substitution of boundary conditions
• 1 mark for simplifying using the cyclic nature of sinusoidal functions
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

Question 5:

sin(x)
We know x = c is the point where the area under the graph y = is equal on each side of x = c over the domain
ˆ 4π x
sin(x) 1.49216
0 ≤ x ≤ 4π . Using our graphics calculator, we find y = dx = 1.49216... and = 0.74608... which
ˆ 0 x 2
x
sin(x)
allows us to plot graphs of y = dx and y = 0.74608... and find the intersection.
0 x
Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

Alternate solution: note that this is more computationally strenuous, so only do this if your graphics calculator is fast!
ˆ x ˆ 4π
sin(x) sin(x)
We can substitute the variable x for the variable c and graph the functions y = dx and y = dx over
x 0 x x
the domain 0 ≤ x ≤ 4π . Finding the intersection between the two gives x = 0.7711...

sin(x)
The thing we need to remember in this question is that we are not finding the area under the curve y = . All
x
we need to do is solve the integral. This is key in considering the validity of your solution (which is something you should
do for all questions you complete, not just the ones that require it, as a method of checking your answers). Here, there
are two methods to find a solution. If your graphics calculator is fast, the second method involves simply graphing two
functions and finding the intersection. But if, like me, it takes your calculator about 5 minutes to process this (which is
way too long for 4 marks!), you should do the first method, which requires far less computational power. Make sure you
practise these kinds of questions outside of exams so that you know how to make these decisions under test conditions
to save you time.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding half the area (or, for the second method, 1 mark for plotting the graphs with the bounds as the
independent variable)
• 1 mark for plotting the graphs and finding the intersection
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

Question 6:

Unit 3 Topic 2 – Solutions for Calculus of trigonometric functions

For this question, we should first recognise that we cannot solve immediately just by substituting the point we are
dy
provided in the question. Because the point given is a local maximum/minimum, we know that = 0 at this point.
dx
Now we have two equations, which we can rearrange to give the sinusoidal function on one side and the other values
on the other. Squaring and adding, we can eliminate the sinusoidal functions that are difficult to solve and we are left
with a quadratic. Factorising or using the quadratic formula are both good ways to solve for a, giving us the final solutions.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for correctly deriving the function

• 1 mark for letting y = 0 and substituting for x
• 1 mark for substituting the point
• 1 mark for squaring and adding the two equations
• 1 mark for using a trig identity to simplify to a quadratic
• 1 mark for factorising/using the quadratic formula to solve for a

END OF CALCULUS OF TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Topic XI

Unit 3 Topic 3
Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals
Question 1: C
Since we are asked to determine the area under the curve, we must use integration to calculate the area. This involves
the fundamental theorem of calculus: ˆ b
f (x) dx = F (b) – F (a)
a
We simply apply this formula and substitute in all the values:
ˆ 3
–3x 2 + 12x + 2 dx = F (3) – F (0)
0
3
–3x 3 12x 2

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

2x
= + +
3 2 1 0
h i3
= –x 3 + 6x 2 + 2x
0
 
3 2
= –3 + 6 × 3 + 2 × 3 – 0
= –27 + 54 + 6
= 33

This gives us C as our answer. Integrating is relatively simple, like lots of Methods questions, if you take the right steps
and take the time to properly set your work out and understand where you are aiming to get. I was never one to write
out full working during class, especially for multiple choice questions, but once I started doing this in Year 12, I noticed it
prevented me making so many little mistakes, which is invaluable in the exam!

Question 2: A
This question has the same approach as the previous question. Methods is all about being methodical! We again use
the fundamental theorem of calculus and integrate:
ˆ 1 1
2e6x

6x 5x
2e + 5 dx = +
0 6 1 0
1
e6x

= + 5x
3 0
e6 e0
   
= +5 – +5×0
3 3
e6
   
1
= +5 – (changing 5 to 15
3 makes the next step easier)
3 3
e6 15 1
= + –
3 3 3
e6 14
= +
3 3
This answer is shown by option A. Most integral questions will follow this same process. The only thing you need to
remember is how to reverse the derivative of each function. For instance, with the 2e6x here, we have to divide the 2e
by the coefficient of x in the indices, because when we derive, it is multiplied by this number. Other than this, you should
find these questions fairly straightforward.

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Question 3: C
Again, the same method is used here with the fundamental theorem of calculus:
ˆ 1 2  3  1
 6x 
6x x 2 + 4 dx = x2 + 4
0 2x × 3 0
  3 1
= x2 + 4
0
 3  3
= 12 + 4 – 02 + 4

= 53 – 43
= 125 – 64
= 61

Thus, option C is our answer. This question requires us to integrate a function that was derived using the chain rule. It is
simple when we do everything backwards, thinking about the steps we take when using the chain rule. Dividing by the
new power is the opposite to multiplying by the old power, and dividing by the derivative in the brackets is the opposite

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

of multiplying. When we think about it and simply backtrack, this question becomes simple!

Question 4:

When asked to find the area between two curves, we have to integrate twice and subtract from each other. A way of
showing this is:
ˆ b ˆ b
A= f (x)dx – g(x)dx
a a

First, we work out the area under the curve of y = 6e2x , followed by the area under the curve of y = –6x 2 + 4x + 45.
Then we subtract the smaller area from the larger one, but without a calculator, how do we know which one is larger?
We know that the number e is just below 3, so if we substitute, we can get an approximate area and work from there.
Even at the high end of approximation, it is below the other function's area. This means we subtract the first function's
area from the second. We then factorise to give our answer in the simplest form.
These questions might seem complicated at first, but there are only a couple of extra steps on top of the usual anti-
differentiation exercises. Doing things step-by-step and setting it all out clearly will make things easier. You just have
to be careful to subtract the correct area, otherwise you can end up with the opposite area you want. Sometimes the
question will be nice and give you a graph to look at, but not always!

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for calculating the area underneath the first function
• 1 mark for calculating the area under the second function
• 1 mark for determining which graph is closer to the x-axis
• 1 mark for correctly determining area between graphs

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Question 5:
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

This question is tech active, so we make the most out of using our calculator! The first thing to do is to insert the functions
into our calculator and graph them.

y
50

40

30

20

10

–5
5 10 x

We need to determine the intersections for the domain, and the natural logarithmic graph will be the one being subtracted.
We calculate the domain by determining the intersections (i.e. when the functions are equal to one another) using the
calculator. Then we can integrate both functions on our calculator also, and subtract the second from the first.
There are actually three intersections for these functions, so there is also a tiny space bound by the graphs between
x = 0.007 and x = 0.33, but since the question asks us for the intersection between the last two intercepts, we are only
concerned with the large area shown above.
Note that all exact values were used via calculator. Rounded values are shown during working; the working is also much
shorter than the tech-free questions, but communicating it is still important, especially when the question asks for you
to "show all working." Do not leave anything out and write your thought processes down.

Mark allocation:

• 2 marks for determining both intersections and domain

• 2 marks for determining both integrals within the domain
• 1 mark for determining the area between the curves

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Question 6:

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

The main difference with this problem is that we are not given a domain. Instead, we're told to calculate the area
enclosed. This means we have to determine the intersections and use them as our domain. To calculate the
intersections, we let the functions equal each other and solve for x. Then we integrate the two functions and subtract
one from the other to get our answer.
This question may seem confusing and daunting at first because no domain is given. We must fall back to our more
basic maths skills to solve the first steps of these problems and set ourselves up to carry out the more complex calculus.
Be methodical, be thorough, and you're sure to get the marks!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for making the functions equal each other

• 2 marks for determining both intersections for domain
• 1 mark for correctly integrating first function
• 1 mark for correctly integrating second function
• 1 mark for correctly determining area enclosed

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Question 7:
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

The first step for this question is determining the domain. We need to let the function equal zero to determine its roots,
and use the first and last for the rest of our working. The first root is x = –5 and the last is x = 2, so this is our domain.
We can see from the graph that part of the function will have a negative integral, so we need to calculate this separately.
Since the middle x-intercept is at x = 0, we can integrate in two parts, using the domains of –5 ≤ x ≤ 0 and 0 ≤ x ≤ 2.
Then we add them together for the overall area.
Since this question is tech-free, it takes a lot of careful maths to get to the correct answer, hence the generous mark
allocation. Even if you make a small mistake along the way, you can still get lots of marks for your workings out, so
don't be scared by a 'big' question like this! Making sure we are splitting the negative and positive integration, factorising
correctly, and even high number multiplication and division are worth marks here. If you are able to work through all of
this, you will be in a great place with your mental maths skills, and you're sure to excel in your tech-free tests!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for letting the function equal zero

• 1 mark for determining zeros
• 1 mark for stating the domains
• 1 mark for setting up the first integral
• 1 mark for determining area of first domain
• 1 mark for setting up the second integral
• 1 mark for determining area of second domain
• 1 mark for adding integrals
• 1 mark for correct substitutions
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 8:

Although integration by recognition problems are generally harder than other simple familiar calculus problems, if you
follow a process it becomes a lot less daunting. Firstly, the derivative of the given function, f (x), will be similar to the
function to be integrated. Here we can use the rule for differentiating ln(x) found on the formula sheet (which is supplied
in every Methods exam). Be careful to write down the rule used to find the derivative because sometimes a mark will be
docked unless you explicitly state the rule used to derive! In this case, f 0 (x) is a multiple of the integral so the solution to

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

the integral will be the multiple of f (x) (as we already know that the anti-derivative of f 0 (x) is f (x)). A common mistake is
to forget the arbitrary constant (usually +C by convention) that is necessary to add to the solution to an indefinite integral.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the correct derivative and the correct relationship between f 0 (x) and the integral
• 1 mark for correct integration and solution

Question 9:

For this question, we once again use the knowledge 0

ˆ ! that the antiderivative of f (x) is f (x), so we can use the fundamental
b
theorem of calculus g(x)dx = G(b) – G(a) to put the bounds for the integration into an equation. Then, we can
a
ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ 3
take +1 out of the integral by using the law (g(x) + h(x))dx = g(x)dx + h(x)dx and move the dx to the
1
right-hand side to leave just the integral we are solving for on the left-hand side. From there, the right-hand side can be
solved numerically to give the value of the integral on the left-hand side to complete the solution.
Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the correct derivative

• 1 mark for separating the integral
• 1 mark for correctly integrating the right-hand side
• 1 mark for correct substitution on the right-hand side
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

Question 10:

This problem requires use of a combination of the integration by recognition techniques used in Questions 8 and 9, but
with a twist – the variable is k , and x is a constant. This is what moves the question from complex familiar to complex
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Anti-differentiation and definite integrals

unfamiliar. This can be confusing, but with caution the problem can still be solved simply by following the processes
from questions 1 and 2. The arbitrary constant is changed from C to D after the indefinite integral on the right-hand side
is solved, with D representing the addition of C and whatever arbitrary constant might be associated with the indefinite
integral on the right-hand side.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the correct derivative

• 1 mark for separating the integral
• 1 mark for moving the scalar multiple to the right-hand side
• 1 mark for correctly solving the integral on the right-hand side
• 1 mark for correct solution.

END OF ANTI-DIFFERENTIATION AND DEFINITE INTEGRALS SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Question 1 a)

The best advice for tech-active questions is to use your calculator wherever it is possible to save time – just be sure to
write down what you are doing to receive full marks. If there is a formula (or a loose rule you are using) be sure to write
it down or show substitution into it. If your calculator has a table function (where you can choose to show the input and

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

output values of a function over discrete intervals in a table), I would recommend using that to find the values needed
for approximations of area. Also, note that a wavy equals sign (≈) means 'approximately equal to.'

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding values at the left endpoints

• 1 mark for correct substitution into a formula for the left-endpoint method
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 1 b)

This question involves the same process as part a), just with the right-endpoint method.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding values at the right endpoints

• 1 mark for correct substitution into a formula for the right-endpoint method
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Question 2:

The only trick to this question is recognising that you can solve the quadratic without using the quadratic formula to cut
down on time.
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the x-intercepts

• 1 mark for finding the correct values for the height of the trapeziums
• 1 mark for correct substitution into a formula for the trapezoid rule
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 3 a)

Note that for this question, the number of decimal places is not included in the question. This is a situation where
you need to use your judgement to decide on an appropriate number of decimal places. I would suggest that, for this
question, you leave your answer to at least 3 decimal places, as this is what's required for part b).

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the correct values for the heights of the trapeziums
• 1 mark for correct substitution into a formula for the trapezoid rule
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Question 3 b)

The only thing to remember for this question is to never write π = ... because the only correct statement following this
would be π = π . Even writing π = 3.14 would be incorrect. Instead, make sure you use the ≈ (approximately equal to)
sign when working with any sort of approximation for a transcendental number.

Mark allocation:
π
• 1 mark for letting ≈ 1.5656

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

2
• 1 mark for finding an approximate value for π

Question 4:

Units are very important. A very common mistake for a question like this would be not converting all the values to be in
the same unit before performing calculations.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for correct substitution into a formula for the trapezoid rule
• 1 mark for correct cross-sectional area (m2 or cm2 )
• 1 mark for correct volume (m3 or cm3 )

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Question 5:

This, like most complex unfamiliar problems, is not mathematically challenging, but requires a good knowledge of the
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

the subject matter to solve an unseen question like this.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding a single equation to approximate the area beneath

• 1 mark for finding the correct values for the heights of the trapeziums
• 1 mark for correct substitution into a loose formula for the trapezoid rule
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 6 a)

It is important here to understand the relationship between velocity and displacement. Velocity is the derivative of
displacement and displacement is the integral of velocity. Being able to successfully change between the two is important
for a whole variety of questions. When done methodically and with direction, these are some of the simplest questions
you will come across.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for successfully integrating

• 1 mark for correctly substituting height and time
• 1 mark for correct answer with units

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Question 6 b)

In calculator permitted exams, it is important not to forget how useful they are, and how many functions are available to
you! Here, it takes a short amount of time to secure an easy 2 marks. It is also vital, however, to make sure you write
down "found maximum value using calculator functions" or something similar. Just an answer will not suffice in most
cases (besides multiple choice questions).

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for stating working using calculator

• 1 mark for the correct answer

Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Question 7:

First, we need to determine the acceleration function from the displacement function. Since this acceleration is the
second derivative of displacement, we need to derive twice. We are asked to determine the time(s) when the acceleration
is at 7 m/s2 . Therefore, we could let a = 7 and solve for t, but there is a much easier way using your calculator.
If we insert a function of y = 7 along with the acceleration function, the intersections show us the times when the
acceleration is 7. Remember to stay within the domain of 0 ≤ t ≤ 2π , and just use the intersect function on your
calculator to determine the times.
Furthermore, if a question says "find the time(s)" or "find the value(s)," always check for multiple answers! This is another
case where the graphing capabilities of your calculator become extremely important to cut down on the time you take to
answer a question. So utilise your calculator to your advantage! Again, we must recognise how displacement, velocity,
and acceleration are all interrelated. It is on the syllabus; hence it will be tested. I know sometimes deriving using
trigonometric functions can be difficult to remember, but luckily, it is on your formula and data sheet supplied in every
exam!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for successfully deriving to velocity function

• 1 mark for successfully deriving to acceleration function
• 1 mark for stating method on calculator
• 4 mark for the correct answers with units

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

Question 8 a)

In this question, we are given the acceleration function. We must work backwards via integration to determine the
velocity function, and substitute the initial velocity of 12 m/s for c. Then, since we're asked to calculate the velocity after
5 seconds, we let t = 5 and solve for v .
Alternatively, we enter the displacement function into the calculator to use the value function. We then enter an x value
of 5 and it gives the corresponding y (velocity) value.
Unit 3 Topic 3 – Solutions for Estimations and applications of integration

This is a good example of a question that has two ways of solving it that require approximately the same amount of
time. Whether you're comfortable graphing and using those functions, or simply entering manually, both work. We must
be careful with our integration here, making sure not to forget c or to divide the coefficients by the powers we raise to.
Again, when we are methodical in calculus, it becomes a simple question.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for successfully integrating to velocity function

• 1 mark for correctly substituting
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 8 b)

Since this question asks about displacement, we first need to integrate our velocity function from part a) to acquire the
displacement function. We're given the values of s = 51.275 m and t = 5. This leaves us with c, the initial displacement,
so we simply substitute and simplify to get the answer.
Being able to isolate different variables with the data given is an important skill. Your algebra skills will be essential for
all sorts of questions in Methods, so practising until it is second nature is highly recommended.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for successfully integrating to displacement function

• 1 mark for correctly substituting values given
• 1 mark for the correct answer

END OF ESTIMATIONS AND APPLICATIONS OF DIFFERENTIATION SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for The second derivative

Topic XII

Unit 4 Topic 1
Solutions for The second derivative
Question 1 a)

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the first derivative

• 1 mark for finding the second derivative

Question 1 b)

Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for The second derivative

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the first derivative

• 1 mark for finding the second derivative

Question 1 c)

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the first derivative

• 1 mark for finding the second derivative

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for The second derivative

Question 2:
Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for The second derivative

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the coordinates of the x-axis intercepts

• 1 mark for finding the coordinates of the y -axis intercept
• 1 mark for finding the coordinates of all stationary points
• 1 mark for finding the nature of all stationary points using the second derivative test
• 1 mark for finding all oblique points of inflection
• 1 mark for sketching an accurate, continuous, fully labelled sketch

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for The second derivative

Question 3:

Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for The second derivative

It seems like we aren't given a lot of information at first, but the trick here is to insert variables until we can substitute
them out. We can determine three points that the line intersects at first: the one given, (3, 6), the x-intercept, which we
will let be (a, 0), and the y -intercept, which we will let be (0, b). Then we determine the gradient, in this case using the
points (3, 6) and (a, 0), and substitute this into the linear function.
Once we have b in terms of a, we can substitute this into the equation for area and create a function to optimise. If we
graph this function in our calculator and determine the viable minimum, we can determine the value of a and the area of
the triangle. This lets us determine b and therefore all the variables of the equation of the line. Finally, we need to prove
this is the minimum with the second derivative. First, we must derive the function that has A and a as variables using
the quotient rule, or the product rule by rearranging the function as shown in the sample solution above. We can then
determine the derivative of this graph (second derivative overall) by using the derivative function in our calculator menu.
Since it is positive, we can confirm the function is at a minimum. We then collate all information for our answer.
This question brings in many mathematical skills from your Year 11 and 12 studies. Being careful with the differentiation
rules is crucial here, but you also need to have the patience to work through these lengthy questions to earn marks for
all of your working.

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for correct area equation
• 1 mark for calculating gradient in terms of a or b
• 1 mark for isolating a or b
• 1 mark for substituting into area equation
• 1 mark for determining minimum area
• 1 mark for determining b or a
• 1 mark for determining equation of line
• 1 mark for deriving correctly
• 1 mark for determining correct second derivative

END OF THE SECOND DERIVATIVE SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

Solutions for Applications of differentiation

Question 1: A
We are asked to determine the minimum and maximum points, the points where the function is optimal, if used in a
context. To find the minimum and maximum points, we must determine where the rate of change (derivative) is equal to
dy
zero. First we derive the function as = 3x 2 – 3, let the derivative equal zero, and solve for x.
dx

0 = 3x 2 – 3
0 = 3(x 2 – 1)
0 = 3(x – 1)(x + 1)
∴ x = 1 or x = –1

We now know the stationary points are at x = –1 and x = 1. Since we still need to determine their nature (max or min),
d 2y
we use the second derivative test. First, we derive the function again to obtain = 6x. We then substitute the x
dx 2
values of the stationary points into the equation – a negative value means a maximum point, and a positive value means
a minimum point. At x = 1, the function is a minimum, which lines up with option A.
This question is relatively simple, and all it requires is an understanding of how you can use the derivative and second
Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

derivative of a function to understand more about it, like being a derivative detective! Even though we don't have a graph
of this function, you may want to think about things visually or do a small sketch to check your answer.

Question 2: D
We need to determine the stationary point of the function. Since it's a quadratic parabola, we know there will only be
one. First, we derive to get the function of the rate of change, then let the derivative equal zero and solve for x.

dy
= –8x + 8
dx
0 = –8x + 8
–8 = –8x
x =1

This is the horizontal location of the maximum height, where the rate of change is zero. We substitute this into the
original equation and solve for y :

y = –4x 2 + 8x + 2
= –4 × 12 + 8 × 1 + 2
= –4 + 8 + 1
=6

This is the vertical coordinate; therefore it is our maximum height. This means option D is correct. This is a simple
introduction to the concepts of optimisation, and a good example of why derivatives are important in Methods (and
mathematics in general). They can then be applied to lots of real-life scenarios, so you if you go on to study maths at
university, a strong foundation in differentiation will be very valuable!

Question 3: D
Look at the graph to find the values of x at which the gradient of the graph is negative. This means all of the values of
x for which the curve slopes downwards. We can see that the curve has a downward slope between x = 0 and x = 2.
This can be written as x ∈ (0, 2).

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

Question 4 a)

To find f 0 (2), start by finding f 0 (x). It's often a good idea to express this in its simplest form before you make the
–1
substitution for x. Here, we used log laws to change x 2 to √1 . This made it easier for us when we substituted x = 2
x
into the right-hand side. Rationalising the denominator on the last step is optional but recommended as examiners
usually like to have answers expressed in simplest form.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the derivative

• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 4 b)

Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

When we anti-differentiate, we increase the power of each term by 1 and then divide the individual terms by their new
 4
1 4 4 3
power. We do this for each term of f (x) until we have fully simplified it, leaving us with the expression x – x 2 + 7x
8 3 2
Then we need to substitute the terminals of the integral, x = 4 and x = 2. Then we simplify the expression using algebra
and log laws, as shown in the workings above, until we obtain our final answer in exact form.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the anti-derivative

• 1 mark for the correct substitution of terminals
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

Question 5:
Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

Using a graphics calculator, we can get a good idea of what y = f (x) looks like by graphing the function. From this,
we can infer that the domain is x ∈ (0, ∞). We can also find the x and y -intercepts. There is no y -intercept (as x =0),

but we can find the x-intercept at x = 1. As for increasing/decreasing intervals, we know that the function is increasing
for f 0 (x) > 0 and decreasing for f 0 (x) < 0. We can graph f 0 (x) and find that f 0 (x) > 0 (and therefore f (x) is increasing)
for x ∈ (2.72, ∞). We can also find that f 0 (x) < 0 for (and therefore f (x) is decreasing) for x ∈ (0, 2.72) Solving for
f 0 (x) = 0 (which you can easily do on your calculator by graphing f 0 (x)), we find f 0 (x) = 0 at x = 2.72. Now, we can
find f (2.72) = 0.368, giving (2.72, 0.368) as the local maximum. Finally, we can qualitatively find the vertical asymptote
at x = 0 by asymptote at y = 0, which the function approaches as x → ∞. Now we can compile a graph with all this
information to receive full marks.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for sketching an accurate, continuous, fully labelled sketch

• 1 mark for finding the correct domain
• 1 mark for finding the correct x-intercepts
• 1 mark for finding there were no y -intercepts
• 1 mark for finding the correct domain over which the function is increasing
• 1 mark for finding the correct domain over which the function is decreasing
• 1 mark for finding the correct coordinates for the local maximum
• 1 mark for finding the correct horizontal asymptote
• 1 mark for finding the correct vertical asymptote

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

Question 6:

Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

This question seems complex but is quite simple. Since we know we're dealing with a rectangular prism, we can let
l = w, and just refer to them as a side. I like to notate this as s. We then need to write two simultaneous equations for
this problem, one for the surface area, and one for the volume.
For the surface area equation, remember that one of the ends is open, and does not need to be included in the equation.
If we rearrange the this to make it equal d, we can substitute it into the second equation for volume, eliminating the third
variable.
We could simplify by hand, but that's not necessary when we have a calculator! If we insert this and graph it on our
calculators, we can use the maximum function to determine the maximum volume (y ), and the corresponding side value
(x). We can then determine the height of the box using the original volume equation.
Finally, we must confirm the maximum volume using derivatives. If we find that the derivative is a positive number before
and a negative number after the maximum volume we have calculated, this can confirm our findings. Since we already
have it in our graph function on our calculators, we can use the derive function either side of the point, and make a table
to show this before stating our final answer.
This question has many steps to it, but clever calculator use makes this much easier. We have to come up with the
equations and substitute ourselves, but once we have our function, we can insert it into the calculator and it's smooth
sailing! A big trip up in questions like these can be the number of letters and mixing up what is equal to what, so make
sure you lay this out clearly for both yourself and your examiner.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for correct surface area equation

• 1 mark for correct volume equation
• 1 mark for isolating and substituting h
• 1 mark for determining maximum volume
• 1 mark for determining dimensions
• 1 mark for proving that it is the maximum

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

Question 7:
Unit 4 Topic 1 – Solutions for Applications of differentiation

First, we create two equations: one for the volume, and one for surface area. We then need to isolate one variable to be
able to substitute it. This is easiest in the volume equation, isolating h. Then we can simplify and graph this function on
our calculator and determine a viable minimum point.
We can determine the height of the can by substituting the radius into the volume equation. Once we have the
dimensions and surface area, we must prove the second derivative's value at x = 3.82. First, we derive the surface area
function that we simplified. We can then graph that in our calculator and determine the derivative (therefore the second
derivative) using the calc function. (Note that exact values were used in calculator but simplified to 2 decimal places
during working.)
This question is very similar to the previous one; optimisation problems usually follow the same path of two equations,
substitution, graphing, and confirming. Occasionally there will be some curve balls, but the main methods are the same.
Something to be careful with though is to always use exact values! In some rare cases, if you round and use this to
calculate derivatives, and other things, it can give you a wrong answer in the end. You may find that the second derivative
changes to negative when you round (extreme, but possible), leading you to believe it is a maximum.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for correct volume equation

• 1 mark for correct surface area equation
• 1 mark for isolating and substituting h
• 1 mark for determining surface area
• 1 mark for determining dimensions
• 1 mark for correct second derivative value
• 1 mark for determining it is a minimum

END OF APPLICATIONS OF DIFFERENTIATION SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Trigonometric functions

Topic XIII

Unit 4 Topic 2
Solutions for Trigonometric functions
Section 1 – Multiple choice questions
Question 1: C
We are asked to find the area of the triangle. Almost always, this will require the formula:

1
A= bc sin(θ )
2
We are given an angle and two sides, but they don't align with this rule. We must work towards the angle between the
labelled sides. We can do this using the sine rule.

sin(A) sin(B)
=
a b
sin(60) sin(B)
=

Unit 4 Topic 2 – Solutions for Trigonometric functions

12 8
8 sin(60)
= sin(B)
12  
–1 8 sin(60)
B = sin
12
◦
= 35.26
∴ C = 180 – 35.26 – 60
= 84.74◦

We now have the angle we need, and the sides are already given. We substitute these into the area formula:

1 1
A= bc sin(θ ) = × 8 × 12 sin(84.74) = 47.80 cm2
2 2

This is closest to the 48 cm2 given in option C, so we select that answer. This question is seemingly simple at first;
however, it takes a few steps and careful thinking to make sure we use the right trigonometry rules in the right order.
Making use of the information we are given is important, as you are never given unnecessary information. It is common
to be given an angle that you need to use to work towards the next angle. If you get stuck on a multiple choice question
in an exam that takes a lot of work, it will be worth the same as a maybe easier one. Prioritisation is key!

Question 2: B
In this question we are given all three sides and an unknown angle. This is a perfect set for the cosine rule rearranged
to let the angle be isolated. The original formula:

a2 + b 2 – c 2
c 2 = a2 + b2 – 2ab cos(C) becomes C = cos–1 ( )
2ab
We let θ be C and the opposing side (7.5) be c. It doesn't matter which way you assign the values for a or b, so from
here we just substitute:

11.52 + 142 – 7.52

 
–1
θ = cos
2 × 11 × 14
◦
= 32.36

This is closest to option B, so we have our answer. Knowing how to rearrange the cosine rule is important for these types
of questions. Even memorising it is useful to be able to quickly smash out a question like this. Although the original
cosine rule is on your formula sheet, you should still be able to recall and use it confidently.

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Question 3:
Unit 4 Topic 2 – Solutions for Trigonometric functions

This question shoots a lot of information at us in words. It is useful to put it into a diagram to wrap our heads around it.
Because we are talking about a height and multiple distances, we must realise this is a 3D problem. First, let's make a
letter for each point: T can be the base of the tower, H can be the top of the tower, and A and B are already determined.
Using the information given, we can fill out what we know of each triangle and combine them into a 3D diagram, as
shown above.
The only angle we are given vertically is from point B. Therefore, we should work towards solving the side TB in that
triangle with the information we have about the triangle ATB. First, we can use the sine rule to determine the rest of the
angles in the base, and then work out the side TB using the cosine rule. We will then have the angle opposite and two
adjacent sides, so since we are working with a right-angled triangle, we can use SOH CAH TOA to solve for the height
of the tower.
This question combines many aspects of trigonometry knowledge into one, pretty long problem! Diagrams are the best
way to go about 3D problems (and even 2D ones) because they allow you to visualise your thoughts. Knowing where
to work towards and working backwards is also a good tactic. This allows you to see the path and all the problems you
must solve along the way.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for using the sine rule

• 1 mark for correct angle T
• 1 mark for determining angle A.
• 1 mark for using the cosine rule
• 1 mark for correct length for side TB
• 1 mark for using tan
• 1 mark for correct height for HT

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Trigonometric functions

Question 4:

Unit 4 Topic 2 – Solutions for Trigonometric functions

We are asked in this question to solve for the two possible triangles. This wording shows it is an ambiguous triangles
question. First, we draw a diagram to understand the information better, which will show us that we can use the sine rule
to determine angle C. We can work out angle B in this case also, then determine the remaining side. The cosine rule
can then be used to determine the length of side b. This gives us one triangle, and we can write the information down,
or draw a diagram as one of our answers.
The way we get our second triangle is via the unit circle. According to the CAST acronym, sine is positive in two
quadrants, which are the first and second. So really, the answer of 71.96◦ we got earlier using the sine rule could be
from 0, or could be taken from π . Since they are both positive, they are both possible. We simply subtract 71.96 from
180 for a new angle B, and use the cosine rule to determine the remaining side. Drawing the second triangle will finalise
our answer.
For ambiguous triangle cases, it can be tricky to wrap your head around the fact that there are two possibilities according
to the unit circle. It is important to understand that the only possibilities will be in the quadrants where sine is positive
(as you cannot have an angle in excess of 180◦ ). Once you determine this, it is smooth sailing with the cosine rule.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for determining two possibilities of C

• 1 mark for determining the first possibility of angle B and side b
• 1 mark for determining the second possibility of angle B and side b
• 1 mark for the correct information for each case

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Trigonometric functions

Question 5 a)

The first thing to do when given all this information is to draw a diagram. We can then use the sine rule to determine
the distance ship B travelled. Once we have the distance and time, we can calculate its speed. This question is an
application of your trigonometry knowledge, but also draws upon your understanding of speed, distance, and time, as
well as bearings and how this all relates to trigonometry.
You could also complete this question using Pythagoras and SOH CAH TOA, finding the easterly distance ship A is from
port and using that to complete a triangle for ship B's distance. Being very careful in drawing your diagram is important
Unit 4 Topic 2 – Solutions for Trigonometric functions

because misunderstanding things at that stage can lead to wild mistakes later in your answer. We also need to be careful
of the units we use here. I cannot calculate a true answer using minutes and km/h, so I converted the minutes into hours
by diving them by 60. It's a small thing, but many people miss it.
Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for determining distance and angle
• 1 mark for using sine rule
• 1 mark for correct distance
• 1 mark for correct speed
Question 5 b)

Using our diagram from part a), we can easily answer this question. Since we know the distance from P – A and the
distance from P – B, and we know the angle P, we can use the cosine rule to determine the distance and then the time.
Using this distance, and ship A's speed given to us, we can calculate the time to travel this distance. However, we need
to convert to minutes by multiplying by 60.
This question is a simple follow up to part a), provided that you took the time to draw an accurate diagram to understand
the scenario. Simple formulas for the cosine rule and converting times make this an easy question.
Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for correct distance
• 1 mark for correct time in hours
• 1 mark for correct time in minutes

END OF TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS TEST SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Discrete random variables

Topic XIV

Unit 4 Topic 3
Solutions for Discrete random variables
Question 1: D
This question gives us plenty of information to work with, we just need to know how to use it. The formula we need to
use is the binomial probability formula on the formula sheet:
 
n
P(X = r ) = pr (1 – p)n–r
r

We know that n = 10 and that p = 0.25, but we don't have r (no. of successes). Since the question asks us for successes
from 1 and up, we can actually flip it and calculate the probability of 0 successes, then subtract from 1:
  
10 0 10–0
P(X ≥ 1) = 1 – 0.25 (1 – 0.25)
0
 
= 1 – 1 × 1 × 0.7510

Unit 4 Topic 3 – Solutions for Discrete random variables

= 1 – 0.7510
 10
3
=1–
4

This is a relatively simple question, provided you know the small tricks in manipulating probability formulas. Working out
number of successes from 1 to infinity would be impossible, so we simply flip and find the opposite probability to find the
probability we are looking for.

Question 2: D
We know that there are 3 trials. The probability associated with a fair coin landing one side or the other is always 0.5.
We need to calculate 2 and 3 successes. However, it can be easier with smaller numbers, so we can calculate the
probability of 0 and 1 successes. This gives us n = 3, p = 0.5, and r ≤ 1.
Since we are calculating using multiple number of successes, we have to add something to the binomial probability
formula before substituting our values in and solving:
     
n r n–r n r2 n–r2
P(X = r ) = 1– p (1 – p) + p (1 – p)
r r2
     
3 0 3–0 3 1 3–1
P(X ≥ 2) = 1– 0.5 (1 – 0.5) + 0.5 (1 – 0.5)
0 1
 
P(X ≥ 2)1 – 1 × 1 × 0.53 + 3 × 0.5 × 0.52
= 1 – (0.125 + 0.375)
= 0.5

This question just requires basic algebra and an understanding of how these distributions are calculated. Once you
wrap your head around them, they are relatively simple.

Question 3: A
Searching for the information and interpreting it correctly is key in probability problems like this. We are given all the
information we need to do the question. We let the number of questions be n. Since Jeremy is guessing, we say he
has a 25% chance with each multiple choice question. Since he needs a 3 or above, we can calculate the probability
that he scores 2 or under. This gives us n = 6, p = 0.25, and r ≤ 2. Since this question is tech active, we can use
our calculators to quickly calculate this using the binomial CDF function, as we are calculating the chance of 0, 1, and 2
successes all at once.

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You should obtain P(X ≤ 2) = 0.83. However, this is not our answer. We must subtract it from 1 to determine the
probability of 3 or more correct answers:
P(X ≥ 3) = 1 – 0.83 = 0.17

Therefore, the answer is A. You have to be careful in these questions as it is easy to become overconfident when you
are have your calculator. It is easy to use the binomial PDF here instead of the CDF, which can also give you the wrong
answer.

Question 4: B
There are two methods to solve this question. The first method is to find the largest possible value of k in terms of p,
and then find the probability of P(X = 2) + P(X = 3) + ...
The other method is to use the fact that P(X > 1) = 1 – P(X = 0) – P(X = 1). This method will be substantially faster:

P(X > 1) = 1 – P(X = 0) – P(X = 1)

= 1 – (1 – p)0 p – (1 – p)1 p
= 1 – p – (1 – p)p
= (1 – p)2

Question 5: B
Unit 4 Topic 3 – Solutions for Discrete random variables

This question is best solved using a two way probability table.

Anna wins Bella wins Total

Rain 0.3 0.4 – 0.3 = 0.1 0.4
No rain 0.7 – 0.3 = 0.4 1 – 0.4 = 0.6
Total 0.7 1 – 0.7 = 0.3 1

Thus, we can see that the probability of Bella winning on a day with no rain will be 0.6 – 0.4 = 0.2 (looking the 'no rain'
row) or 0.3 – 0.1 = 0.2 (looking at the 'Bella wins') column.

Question 6: A
√
For a binomial distribution, the mean is given by np and the standard deviation is given by np(1 – p). Thus, we can
form an equation for the standard deviation to find a:
p p 2√
np(1 – p) = 10a × a × (1 – a) = 2
5
Using our calculator to solve will give us the following answers:

1 1 √  2 √ 
a= , a= 1– 2 , a= 1+ 2
5 5 5
Since a is a probability, it must be between 0 and 1, and we are told that a < 0.5, so the only possible value of a is
1
= 0.2000.
5

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Discrete random variables

Question 7:

This is a rare kind of question that doesn't require any equations. Instead, you need to articulate your understanding
of the mathematical concepts in words. An ideal response here needs to contain some terms that are fundamental to
Bernoulli and binomial distributions, in particular that each trial is 'independent of each other.'
Questions like these may require you to use terminology you have learned and apply it in the same way. There are
questions that will withhold a mark from you if you do not use exact words, like dependent or independent in this case.
Make sure your wording is always definitive and concise.

Unit 4 Topic 3 – Solutions for Discrete random variables

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for identifying it is not suitable

• 1 mark for using the term 'independent or dependent'
• 1 mark for explaining why it is not independent
• 1 mark for solution

Question 8 a)

This question is easily solved using a formula given to you on your formula sheet. We are asked to determine the
expected value (in other words, the mean), which is equal to np. We are given the number of trials as 20 and the
probability as 20%. We simply substitute them in.
This is a very simple question but you can lose marks for not explicitly stating your working. As this question is worth 2
marks, it means there is 1 mark for showing your working and 1 mark for the answer. Most likely, this will be stating a
formula or your values, or both, so be sure to take no shortcuts.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for values and formula

• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Discrete random variables

Question 8 b)

This question can also be solved quickly when relating back to your formula sheet. We are asked to determine the
variance, which is given by Var = np(1 – p). We have the values from the previous question, but we state them again for
working. Setting things out clearly is vital for the probability topics.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for values and formula

• 1 mark for the correct answer
Unit 4 Topic 3 – Solutions for Discrete random variables

Question 8 c)

The formula for standard deviation is not on the formula sheet, so you need to remember that the standard deviation is
the square root of the variance. This can come in handy for questions like this, so make sure you commit it to memory if
you haven't already.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for values and formula

• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 9:

Unit 4 Topic 3 – Solutions for Discrete random variables

In this question, we are given a set of information and asked to work backwards. We are given the probability, the trials,
and the number of successes, so we write this information down and substitute this into our formula. Since we now
know the individual probability of getting a red marble each trial, we can determine the proportion of red marbles in the
bag. We multiply the total marbles by the probability to find the answer.
Being able to adapt to different kinds and combinations of information in Methods is important. Just because you can't
directly get your calculator to do it, doesn't mean it's impossible!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for the formula and values

• 1 mark for correctly substituting
• 1 mark for the correct probability
• 1 mark for the correct answer

END OF DISCRETE RANDOM VARIABLES SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal
distribution

Topic XV

Unit 4 Topic 4
Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

Question 1: B
We are asked to determine the percentage that ate fewer than 6. This is important because some students may assume
this includes 6, but this is not the case!
We simply estimate the amount of each column and add them up for a total.

P(X < 6) = x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 + x5
Unit 4 Topic 4 – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

= 10% + 15% + 10% + 25% + 10%

= 70%

This gives us option B. Hopefully the counting involved in this question wasn't too hard here. The recognition of
mathematical operators is also simple, but it would be easy to calculate incorrectly if you misread the question and went
with P(X ≤ 6) instead. We always need to make sure to read the question carefully and understand exactly what the
maths means and is asking for.

Question 2: B
When we compare results using z-scores (also called standardised scores), the difference becomes clear in results. To
calculate a z-score, we use the formula:
x –µ
z=
σ
For example, Teish's standardised score is:
x –µ
X =
σ
80 – 74
=
5
= 1.2

When we do this for all of them, the results are:

Teish = 1.2
Hayden = 1.5
Gemma = 1.19
Daniel = 1.67
Sharon = 0.5

So, we know that Daniel has the highest, and Sharon has the lowest, making option B the correct answer. z-scores
are relatively easy to calculate, but it is also easy to make a small mistake, like swapping the mean and x around, for
example. It can also be inadvertently misleading – for example, Sharon's score was the highest, but it was only equal to
a standardised score of 0.5. This can make you second guess yourself. Double check and be sure of your answer.

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal
distribution

Question 3 a)

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution
To determine the point a, we need to integrate the function and let the integral between 0 and a equal 1. We can use
the fundamental theorem of calculus and substitute in our values. Since it's a probability density function, we can make
it equal 1, and use our calculator to solve for a.
We can eliminate the negative because we are told that if it is below 0, the function is equal to 0. We can also eliminate
the 2.07 because it is beyond the function above the x-axis.
When you are asked to show working like this, take your time in showing your train of thought – don't jump straight for
your calculator. The answer itself is only worth 1 mark out of 5, so it's important to work through the question piece by
piece and ensure you get all of the available marks along the way.

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for correctly integrating
• 1 mark for identifying that it is equal to 1
• 1 mark for creating function
• 1 mark for finding values of a
• 1 mark for determining the only correct value of a

Question 3 b)

From part a), we know the limits and function of the probability density function. To determine the expected value, we
multiply the function by x and then solve for x. This is quite a simple question, so long as you integrate and substitute
correctly.

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for giving formula for E(x)
• 1 mark for correctly integrating
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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distribution

Question 3 c)
Unit 4 Topic 4 – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

To determine the variance, we need two values: the function integrated after it has been multiplied by x 2 , and the mean
(expected value) squared also. We have the expected value from the previous question, so we simply square that, then
we follow the same steps of the previous question, but we multiply by x 2 , and subtract the squared mean to get the
variance.
There are a few steps to this question,
and if you don't understand the formula on the formula sheet, it can be confusing.
Also, don't confuse E(x)2 and E x 2 . The first one is the mean squared, whereas the second one is the function
multiplied by x 2 .

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for squaring the mean

• 1 mark for multiplying by x 2
• 1 mark for correctly integrating
• 1 mark for the correct E x 2

• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 3 d)

To determine the standard deviation, we simply have to find the square root of the variance. This is a straightforward
calculation once you've found the variance in part c), with 1 mark for the correct answer.

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal
distribution

Question 4 a)

1 2 1
If the function is continuous, this means that there cannot be a jump at x = a. So, if we substitute in x = a for
x and a,
2 2
we should get the same value. Solving this gives us a = 0 and a = 1, and we reject the first answer since we're told a > 0.

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution
Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for a correct substitution

• 1 mark for rejecting a = 0 and stating that a = 1

Question 4 b)

For a continuous density function, f (x) must satisfy

ˆ ∞
f (x) dx = 1
–∞

Since we have two separate parts, we will have one integral for a < x ≤ b (f (x) = 0 elsewhere). We can also substitute
a = 1 from part a) to obtain:
ˆ 1 ˆ b
1 2 1
x dx + dx = 1
0 2 1 2
Solving this equation by hand gives us the value of b.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for setting up the integral equation

• 1 mark for evaluating the integrals
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal
distribution

Question 5:
Unit 4 Topic 4 – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

There are a few steps to this question. First, we must determine b. We are given a gradient and an x value. However,
to be able to isolate b, we need to derive.
Once we've got that, we can solve for a by letting the integral of the function equal 1 using fundamental theorem of
calculus. This gets us the values of a = 0.72 and a = 3.82, but 3.82 is beyond the function above the x-axis, therefore
we can disregard this solution.
This question has a lot of steps, but as always, the key is direction and method. Know where you are going, and follow
your Methods formulas to get there.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for deriving correctly

• 1 mark for substituting values
• 1 mark for finding the value of b
• 1 mark for setting up the integral
• 1 mark for integrating correctly
• 1 mark for making one side equal to zero
• 1 mark for finding the values of a
• 1 mark for stating the correct value of a

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal
distribution

Question 6 a)

Unit 4 Topic 4 – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution
This question required you to recall and use the rule for determining the sampling proportion, and the rule for the
approximate confidence interval.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the sample proportion

• 1 mark for finding the confidence interval
• 1 mark for interpreting the results

Question 6 b)

Note that your answers may vary slightly here if a z-scores to more than 3 decimal places is used, but the values in this
sample solution are sufficient to get the marks here.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for using the rule for the margin of error

• 1 mark for determining the sample size

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal
distribution

Question 7:
Unit 4 Topic 4 – Solutions for Continuous random variables and the normal distribution

We need to calculate the total number over a 24 hour period. Since this exceeds the bounds of the first function, we
need to determine the second function and ultimately create a piecewise function and integrate them to get an overall
total.
We will determine the second function using information we know: the rate is the same as the first function's at t = 2,
and the rate remains constant (in other words, it is a linear function). This means we are essentially finding the tangent
to the curve at t = 2, so we can determine a point and gradient and substitute it into a formula to find the equation.
Once we have our formula for the second part of our piecewise function, we need to integrate the functions in their
bounds, and add them to get a total area, or total population. We can make an equation for this, Ptotal , and solve it with
our calculator, giving our answer to the nearest thousand.
The question seems long-winded but is simple when you break it down. A lot of students would have forgotten to present
their answer in thousands though, potentially missing out on the final mark. Always double check that your final solution
is in the correct form, with the correct units, or to the correct number of decimal places as required.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for determining gradient

• 1 mark for determining y coordinate
• 1 mark for using the tangent formula
• 1 mark for the correct tangent
• 1 mark for correct equation and bounds
• 1 mark for correct P value
• 1 mark for correct answer in thousands

END OF CONTINUOUS RANDOM VARIABLES, THE NORMAL DISTRIBUTION,

AND INTERVAL ESTIMATES SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

Topic XVI

Units 3&4 Mock Exam

Solutions for Paper 1

Question 1: D
This function requires us to use the product rule to derive it since the first part is a function multiplied by a function:

y 0 = uv 0 + vu 0

And we can derive the second part separately and add it on after. We let u = x and v = sin 3x 2 . We derive them both

and then substitute all into the equation.

 
u 0 = 1 and v 0 = 6x cos 3x 2
   
y 0 = x × 6x cos 3x 2 + sin 3x 2 × 1
   
= 6x 2 cos 3x 2 + sin 3x 2

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

Don't forget to add in the last bit:

dy     dy  
= 6x 2 cos 3x 2 + sin 3x 2 + 5x 3
dx dx
This gives us our final answer, option D:

dy    
= 6x 2 cos 3x 2 + sin 3x 2 + 15x 2
dx
When deriving in parts, its easy to forget the last bits, like the easy differentiation on the end. It's also easy to forget to
use the appropriate differentiation rules, like the product rule in this case, so make sure to double check.

Question 2: D
This question asks us quite a simple binomial question that we can use our formula sheet to complete quickly. First, we
get the formula for binomial probability:  
n r
P(X = r ) = p (1 – p)n–r
r
And we determine the variables we are given and substitute them in. We know that p = 0.75 and n = 20, and since it
asks us to calculate for fewer than 1 successes, this means r = 0. We substitute and simplify as much as possible to
end up with option D:
 
20
P(g < 1) = 0.750 (1 – 0.75)20–0
0
= 1 × 1 × (0.25)20
= 0.2520

When unsure of what to do, use the formula you know and substitute values in. it can give you direction and guidance
by showing you what's known, what isn't, and how you should get to the answer.

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Question 3: A
To calculate expected value, we simply multiply the probability function by x, and integrate within the bounds:
ˆ 1
E(x) = x 3x 2 dx
0
ˆ 1
= 3x 3 dx
0
1
3x 4

=
4 0
14
 
3×
= –0
4
3
=
4
This gives us option A. Remember that the expected value is basically just integration with an extra little multiplication at
the start, so don't overcomplicate it!

Question 4: C
We are given a total perimeter and asked to optimise (maximise) the area within the field. To do this, we need to develop
two simultaneous equations. One for perimeter and one for area:
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

50 = 2l + 2w or 50 = 2(l + w)
A = lw

First, we need to isolate either the length or the width from the first equation and substitute it into the second. I will
isolate width and substitute this into the area equation:

50 = 2(l + w)
25 = l + w
w = 25 – l
∴ A = l(25 – l)
A = 25l – l 2

Since we are trying to find the maximum, we need to derive the function and let it equal 0 to find the stationary point:

A0 (l) = 25 – 2l
let A0 (l) = 0 :
0 = 25 – 2l
2l = 25
l = 12.5 m

Since there is only one option with l = 12.5 m, we know that option C must be correct. However, if we needed to
determine the width, we just substitute the length into the perimeter equation and solve for w.
Also, note that the maximised area for rectangles will always be achieved by a square where l = w. Therefore, you can
simplify your perimeter equation to P = 4l or 4w. Since it is multiple choice, if you have this knowledge, you can easily
speed through this question.

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Question 5: C
We use the fundamental theorem of calculus, and apply it here quite simply, despite the moderately long function:
ˆ 2
A= –4x 3 + 3x 2 + 9x + 2 dx
0
2
–4x 4 3x 3 9x 2

2x
= + + +
4 3 2 1 0
2
9x 2

= –x 4 + x 3 + + 2x
2 0
9 × 22
 
4 3
= –2 + 2 + +2×2 –0
2
= –16 + 8 + 18 + 4
= 14

Hence, the answer is C. A big trip up here can be the presence of a negative sign in front of a variable. We have to
imagine this as a coefficient of –1, not as part of the variable. Therefore, using BODMAS (or whatever your acronym is)
we complete the orders (indices) before multiplying by the coefficients.

Question 6: B

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

 
loga x 2 = loga (4)

x2 = 4
x = ±2

Question 7: A
dy
= (1)(sin(x)) + (x)(cos(x)) = sin(x) + x cos(x)
dx
Question 8: B
1
cos(x) =
2  
1
x = arccos
2
π
Using our knowledge of the triangle, we can find that x = :
3

π
6

√
3 2

π
3
1

If you don't know your basic trig ratio triangles, you should learn them because they are often very useful in tech-free
exams.

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 1

Question 9: C ˆ 
x2 x3

+3 = + 3x + C
2 6
Question 10: D

x4 x3 2x 1
y = – + –
12 3 3 6
dy x3 2
= – x2 +
dx 3 3
d 2y
= x 2 – 2x
dx 2
d 2y
let =0:
dx 2
x(x – 2) = 0
x = 0, 2

Often in the externals, you'll find a few of the multiple-choice questions take longer than you'd expect for a question
worth only 1 mark. Sometimes, it can be beneficial to skip questions when you think your time is better spent getting
marks on other questions first. This is a key thing to be thinking about during perusal time.
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

Question 11:

z-scores are a quick and easy way to score marks. The formula we use to calculate a standardised value (z-score) is:
x –µ
z=
σ
All we have to do is calculate this for each student and determine who has the highest score. These questions are really
simple, so just watch out for little mistakes (e.g. make sure you read the table correctly and substitute the correct values
in your calculations).

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for stating the formula for z

• 1 mark for correctly substituting the values
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 12:

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for converting 2 to ln(e2 )

• 1 mark for simplifying to only one natural log on each side of the equals sign
• 1 mark for simplifying out the natural logs

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

• 1 mark for correctly expressing y in terms of x

Question 13:

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You could check the nature of the turning point using the second derivative, but we can also just look at the equation
of the function and know that this is a concave up quadratic, meaning (0, –3) is a minimum turning point, and y has no
points of inflection.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding all x-axis intercepts

• 1 mark for finding all y -axis intercepts
• 1 mark for finding the coordinates of all stationary points and their nature
• 1 mark for sketching an accurate, smooth, continuous graph that is fully labelled

Question 14:
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

This question is a bit abstract as we are given the area of the triangle and asked to work backwards. The formula we
1 √
can use is obviously the area of a triangle formula, A = bc sin(θ ). We are given the values of A = 20 3 and θ = 60◦
2
to substitute in, and then if we can
√ isolate bc, then we can use the ratio to determine their values.
3
Recall that sin(60) is equal to . If the simplifying shown in the sample answer confused you, when we divide by a
2
fraction, it is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal (i.e. the upside down version of the fraction!).
The ratio of bc is 4:5, so we need to think of factors of 80 and determine which have this same ratio. The factors of 8
and 10 line up with this, which we can confirm mathematically.
You might have gotten stuck towards the end of this question, but you can often use common sense to get through
problems like this. As long as you back it up with working, it is valid!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for using area formula and substituting

• 1 mark for solving for bc
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 15:

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

We are asked to determine the gradient at a point which means we first have to determine the first derivative. We have
to be aware of differentiation rules, and in this case, we have to use the product rule in multiple places (i.e. for both
x sin(4x) and x 2 cos(5x)). Also, don't forget about the last 'tail' of the function and derive 4x 3 . Then we just need to add
these altogether to form one derived function, substitute in π , simplify, and factorise.

This question seems daunting but is very straightforward with the right techniques and maths. Having the right direction
and method makes this question a breeze. However, there are many chances for little mistakes in deriving. The unit
circle and understanding of it is important also, realising that with whole π values, sine is always going to be 0 and
cosine can only be +1 or –1. I visualise it in my head and that helps massively, but you may also want to draw a diagram
on the side of the page if you need to work through this to check your answer.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for stating the product rule

• 1 mark for correctly using the product rule twice
• 1 mark for correct entire derivative of function
• 1 mark for a correct answer

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Question 16:

Mark allocation:
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

• 1 mark for correctly finding the first derivative

• 2 marks for using the first derivative to find the values of a, b, and c
• 1 mark for using the coordinate to find the value of d

Question 17 a)

Question 17 b)

Note that we have to reject the negative result for t because it doesn't make sense for a plant to be –4 years old.
When you get worded problems, always look back at the question to make sure your answer is reasonable for the given
scenario.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for using log laws to simplify out all log expressions
• 1 mark for expressing all numbers as an exponent of 4
• 1 mark for finding both possible values for t
• 1 mark for finding the correct answer, including rejecting the negative value for t

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Question 18 a

We are asked to determine the amount of money lost in an hour timeframe from 3:00–4:00 p.m. Since we are determining

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

a solid amount over a period, we know we need to integrate. We substitute the values in and work from there (letting L
be loss in thousands of dollars).
At the end, we have to do some old school division to convert the fraction to a decimal and give our final answer in units.
The sight of a fraction that doesn't divide evenly may be weird and annoying, but when it is something simple like this, it
is easy enough to solve and work out.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for integrating

• 1 mark for correctly substituting
• 1 mark for dividing fraction correctly
• 1 mark for correct final value
• 1 mark for expressing answer in dollars

Question 18 b)

The first part of the question asks us to determine a rate. This is how we know to use the derivative. We are asked for
the derivative at 12pm, which on this function is considered as t = 0 (remember to read the question carefully!). We
substitute this into the derivative to find that the $/hour is equal to 5. This is a positive number so we can confirm that
the first part is true.

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We then have to determine whether this rate is increasing or decreasing. In other words, determine the rate of the
rate, which is the second derivative. We must derive again and substitute in the value of x = 0 (not 5, as we are still
determining information at 12:00 p.m.). Since the second derivative is a negative number, we can tell that the function is
in a region of concave down. This means that the rate is decreasing and in fact will become less $/hour after 12:00 p.m.
The wording of this question can be hard to interpret, but once you pick up on small clues, it is not too bad to tangle
with. Some of the complex unfamiliar questions are simply just the same questions in disguise, asking you to apply
knowledge you already know to a different and seemingly confusing situation.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for deriving correctly

• 1 mark for determining value of derivative at t = 0
• 1 mark for correctly deriving to second derivative
• 1 mark for determining P 00 at t = 0
• 1 mark for final answer with rate and change of rate

Question 18 c)
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

We are asked to determine when the rate changes from increasing to decreasing. This is indicative of a point of
inflection, and we use the second derivative to calculate where this point is by letting P 00 = 0 and solving for t using the
null factor law.
Since we are asked to also determine the profit, we have to substitute this value into the original equation and present
our answer as a time and profit.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for using null factor correctly

• 1 mark for substituting into function
• 2 marks for correct time and correct profit

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Question 19:

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 1

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for correctly finding the derivative
• 1 mark for using the null factor law
• 1 mark for finding the x-value for the maximum
• 1 mark using the coordinate for the maximum if it was at 5
• 1 mark for finding the correct value of a
Question 20:

Mark allocation:
dt
• 1 mark for finding
ds
• 1 mark for correctly integrating with respect to s
• 1 mark for correctly finding the value of C
• 1 mark for the correct answer

END OF MOCK EXAM PAPER 1 SOLUTIONS

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 ATAR Notes QCE Maths Methods 3&4 Topic Tests – Solutions for Units 3&4 Mock Exam Paper 2

Solutions for Paper 2

Question 1: B
We are given all 3 sides and an angle to determine. This is a perfect setup for a variation of the cosine rule, which can
be rearranged to allow us to solve for C:

c 2 = a2 + b2 – 2ab cos(C)
a2 + b 2 – c 2
cos(C) =
2ab
72 + 152 – 122
cos(C) =
2 × 7 × 15
cos(C) = 0.62
C = cos–1 (0.62)
C = 51.75 ≈ 52◦

Question 2: C
This function gives us a binomial distribution, which is easy to solve using the binomial tools in your calculator. We are
asked to determine a value that is a range of successes equal to or greater than 35. To calculate this quickly, we use the
binomial CDF function to calculate all the successes up to 34 and subtract it from 1:
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

P(X ≥ 35) = 1 – BinomialCDF(50, 0.7, 34)

= 0.57

Question 3: D
z-scores are easy questions for marks. We still need to be careful though. Here we are given the mean, x value and
variance (not standard deviation!). This can easily be converted but is a huge chance for a slip up.
√
σ= Var
√
= 1.7321
= 1.316
x –µ
z=
σ
79.5 – 75
=
1.316
= 3.4

If you skim read and don't determine what each number means, it is easy to mess up this question. Utilising perusal
time is integral to familiarising yourself with each question and what information you're given.

Question 4: A
Integrating a function is pretty easy when you have your calculator – just make sure you input this correctly as a typo
here may lead to one of the incorrect multiple choice options.
ˆ 4.6
3
– x 3 – 20x 2 + 100x + 6 dx = 394.7
0 8

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Question 5: A
We have to calculate the standard deviation, which means we first need to calculate the variance, and then find the
square root of this:

Var = np(1 – p)
= 30 × 0.37(1 – 0.37)
= 11.1 × 0.63
= 6.993
√
σ= Var
√
= 6.993
= 2.6

Question 6: B
We can simply use a graphics calculator to evaluate the bounded integral, which gives us option B:
ˆ 2
sin(ln(x)) dx ≈ –0.1303
0

Question 7: C
We can use the formula for the standard deviation of a normally distributed variable.

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

r
p(1 – p)
σ=
n
r
0.2 × 0.8
=
100
= 0.04

Question 8: B
Since we know the formula for the confidence interval of a normally distributed variable, we can substitute using
simultaneous equations to solve.


p̂ – z σ , p̂ + x σ = (0.05, 0.07)
p̂ – 0.5σ = 0.05 (equation 1)
p̂ + 0.5σ = 0.07 (equation 2)
p̂ + p̂ + σ – σ = 0.05 + 0.07
2p̂ = 0.12
p̂ = 0.06

Substituting p̂ into either equation 1 or 2, we can solve for σ as the only remaining unknown variable:

0.06 + 0.5σ = 0.07

0.5σ = 0.01
σ = 0.02

Question 9: C
We can use the equation solver function graph y = ln(x –2) × ln(x +1) and y = 4 on our calculator and find an intersection
to get x = 8.11, which is option C.
Be careful when solving this question! Although it is very tempting, ln(a) ln(b)=

ln(ab)=

ln(a + b). There is no log law to
simplify the product of two natural logs.

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Question 10: A
First, we can quite easily derive by hand using the quotient rule:

dy x cos(x) – sin(x) 1
= +
dx x2 x
Now we can graph this function on a calculator and solve for the zeroes. Some calculators will have a specific function
for this. We get x-intercepts (and therefore max and min values) at x = 2.33 and x = π .

Question 11:
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

To find the area of the triangle, we need two sides of the triangle and two angles. Since we already have two sides, we
determine the angle using the sine rule. We can use the sine rule to do this.
We then need to check there are no other possibilities for the angles. Sine is positive in the first two quadrants, so the
angle can also be 146.73◦ .
We then subtract this and the angle given already in the triangle to determine the two possible angles between the two
known sides, but since the second one is negative, we know it is not possible. We use the angle of 99.73◦ In our area
calculation, knowing there is only one possible area.
If you're not already in the habit of checking for ambiguity of triangles, make sure you practise this!

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for using the sine rule

• 1 mark for checking ambiguity
• 1 mark for using area formula
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 12:

We are given two values here and asked to determine the mean. Since the formula for the mean is simple, it means we
will have to work backwards. The standard deviation can be converted into the variance by squaring it. This gives us a
formula for variance that contains the same two variables for the formula for mean, so we can use that and solve for the
unknown. Then, since we now know n, we can substitute the n and p values into the formula for mean, giving us our
answer.
This question requiring us to work backwards is different, but just stick to what you know, and it all pans out. If you're not
sure something will work, just try using the relevant formulas and see where they take you.

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding variance

• 1 mark for finding n
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 13:

To calculate the median of a probability density function, we let the integral of the definite integral between the lower
bound and median band, m, equal 0.5, and solve for m. Just put this into your graphing function and use the zero tool
to find the roots, or put the function in the polynomial root finder. If you're unsure whether the calculator gave you a valid
answer on not, try taking this m value and integrate with that as the upper bound. If it gives you 0.5, you know it's correct.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for creating correct equation

• 1 mark for integrating correctly
• 1 mark for excluding answers that are not possible
• 1 mark for the correct answer

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Question 14:

Determining the value of r just requires us to simplify the equation using our understanding of logarithms. Your calculator
may have helped with some steps here, but you still needed to show your workings out – not every question in a tech-
active exam will require you to jump straight to the calculator.
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for isolating indices with r

• 1 mark for using logarithms
• 1 mark for simplifying logarithms
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 15:

First, we need to determine the values of p̂, σ , and z, then use these in the formula for the approximate confidence
interval for the population.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the sample proportion

• 1 mark for finding the standard deviation
• 1 mark for finding the z-score
• 1 mark for finding the approximate confidence interval for the population

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Question 16:

Using a graphics calculator, we can determine the shape, zeroes, asymptotes, and the range of the function by graphing

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

π   
3π
it. This gives us zeroes at , 0 and , 0 , a vertical asymptote at x = 1, and a range of (–∞, ∞).
2 2
Next, we can find and plot the first derivative to find all stationary points. Using the quotient rule, we have:

dy – sin(x) ln(x) – cos

x
x
=
dx (ln(x))2

dy
Finding the zeroes of will give us the stationary points. The x-coordinate is 2.81, so substituting back into y , we get
dx
(2.81, –0.915) as a local minimum.
dy
We can also use our calculator to find the stationary points of , which will be the points of inflection of y . You should
dx
find this to be (4.388, –0.216) as an oblique point of inflection.
Using all of this information, we can graph the function, labelling the key points.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the coordinates of all axis intercepts

• 1 mark for stating the domain and range
• 1 mark for finding the asymptote (between x = 0 and x = 5)
• 1 mark for finding the coordinates of all stationary points and their nature
• 1 mark for finding the coordinates all points of inflection and their nature
• 1 mark for sketching a smooth, accurate, and fully labelled graph over the correct domain

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Question 17:

Because this is a tech-active exam, we can begin by plotting the parabola to help visualise the problem and gather
information regarding the nature of the parabola.

y
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

1 2 3 x

–1

–2

We know the line y = mx passes through the point (0,0) and must pass through the parabola at another point to split the
area of the parabola in half, so we calculate the total area and halve this.
Now, let y = mx and y = 2x(2 – x) intersect at x = a. Solving for a by integrating will get us our answer, and we can
evaluate the reasonableness of the solution by substituting our value for a back in to the integral.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the area under the parabola and hence half the area under the parabola
• 1 mark for finding m in terms of a
• 1 mark for expressing a in terms of an integral with value equal to half the area under the parabola
• 1 mark for correctly integrating
• 1 mark for finding the correct value of a
• 1 mark for finding the correct equation for the line
• 1 mark for evaluating the reasonableness of the solution

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Question 18:

For this question, we are given a formula to work out the flight of the ball, which we can convert into a quadratic, as well
as the acceleration and initial velocity, which we can substitute into this equation. Note that the acceleration is negative,
because when you have something going straight up, gravity is going to pull it the other way.
We can then graph this in our calculator, along with the function y = 1.7 to find the second intersection (because the ball
is on its way down, not up).

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for correct equation

Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

• 1 mark for making acceleration negative
• 1 mark for using the formula to find t at y = 1.7
• 1 mark for the correct answer

Question 19:

Since we know the run ends at 1 km above sea level, we can use a graphics calculator to find the x value when y = 1,
which will be x = 1.1499. Hence, we can conclude the equation for the curve vertically 2 m (0.002 km) above the slope
is Hs = 1.8e–x + 0.432. By integration, we can determine the cross-sectional area and multiply this by the width of the
slope to find the volume of snow on the slope.

Mark allocation:

• 1 mark for finding the correct value of x for when y = 1

• 1 mark for finding the correct function expressing the snow atop the slope
• 1 mark for finding the correct cross-sectional area
• 1 mark for finding the correct volume of snow

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Question 20 a)

We must use optimisation to determine the maximum area of the paddock. To maximise the space, we know that a
corner will touch a point of the curve. We can then substitute the quadratic equation into the area equation and graph
the result. Then, use the max function on your calculator to determine the maximum area along with the corresponding
x value.
We can then substitute the A and x into the first equation to determine y . Finally, to determine the perimeter, we use the
simple perimeter formula, letting y be l and x be w.
Units 3&4 Mock Exam – Solutions for Paper 2

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for creating area formula
• 1 mark for substituting equation
• 1 mark for finding maximum and value
• 1 mark for determining other value
• 2 marks for correct answers

Question 20 b)

To determine the percentage of the area that has not been used, we need to integrate the function of the river to
determine the total area, then find the percentage that is not inside the paddock and integrate this using our calculator.
We just need to first determine the x-intercept to determine our upper bound.
Then, subtract the used area from the total, divide by the total, and multiply by 100. Provided you got the correct answer
in part a), this question should be relatively easy.

Mark allocation:
• 1 mark for determining bounds
• 1 mark for integrating
• 1 mark for using correct formula
• 1 mark for the correct answer

END OF MOCK EXAM PAPER 2 SOLUTIONS

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