8

8A Polynomial identities
8B Partial fractions
8C Simultaneous equations

Further algebra
areas oF sTudy

• The solution of simultaneous equations arising from the intersection of a line with a parabola, circle or
rectangular hyperbola using algebra
eBook plus

Digital doc

polynomial identities
10 Quick Questions
8a
Before discussing the definition of a polynomial identity, it is important to remember some basic
definitions.
• An algebraic expression is made up of terms.
• In the term axn, a is referred to as the coefficient of xn.
• A constant is a term with no variable beside it.
For example 2x3 + 3 is an algebraic expression made up of two terms. The coefficient of
3
x is 2. The constant is 3.
A polynomial identity is an identity of the form:
kn xn + kn - 1xn - 1 + kn - 2x n - 2 + . . . . . + k1x + k0, n ∈ N
where kn , kn - 1. . . are constants and n is an element of the set of natural numbers N.
The degree of a polynomial is given by the highest value of n. Hence a polynomial of degree 1
is linear, of degree 2 is a quadratic, of degree 3 is a cubic, of degree 4 is a quartic and so on.

Worked example 1

Which of the following are polynomials? Give reasons for your answers.
1
a x3 + 2x2 + 1 b x+ c (2x + 6)5
x
Think WriTe
a In order for x3 + 2x2 + 1 to be a polynomial, a x3 + 2x2 + 1 is a polynomial of degree 3 since it has
the powers must all be greater than or equal to descending powers of x and these powers are all
0, which they are. The highest power of x is 3. greater than or equal to zero, i.e. n ∈ N.
1
b In order for x + to be a polynomial, the b This is not a polynomial since the second term has
x a power of -1.
powers must all be greater than or equal to 0,
which they are not.

272 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad
c In order for (2x + 6)5 to be a polynomial, the c This is a polynomial of degree 5, since when
powers must all be greater than or equal to 0, expanded, it has n ∈ N.
which they are. The highest power of x is 5.

Two polynomials are said to be equal if each x-value generates the same y-value. Polynomials are
identical if they are of the same degree and corresponding coefficients are equal. Therefore, if:
ax3 + bx2 + cx + d = 2x3 - 4x + 8
then  a = 2, b = 0, c = -4 and d = 8.
If two polynomials are known to be equal, then the process of equating coefficients can be
used to solve problems.

Worked Example 2

If 5x3 + 2x2- 7x + 1 = (2 a + b)x3 - ax2 -(b - c) x + 1, then find the values of a, b and c.
Think Write
Method 1: Technology-free
1 If 5x3 + 2x2- 7x + 1 = 5x3 = (2a + b)x3
(2a + b)x3 - ax2 - (b - c)x + 1, then the each ⇒ 5 = 2a + b [1]
corresponding term must be equal. Equate the
terms. 2x2 = -ax2
⇒ 2 = -a
⇒ -2 = a [2]

-7x
= -(b - c)x
⇒-7 = -(b - c)
⇒7 = b - c [3]
2 Solve these equations using substitution. -2
Substituting a = into equation [1] gives
2(-2) + b = 5
b=9
Substituting b = 9 into equation [3] gives
9-c=7
c=2
3 Write the answer. a = -2, b = 9 and c = 2
Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, using the soft keyboard, tap:
•  )
•  {N
Enter the equations as shown.
Then press E.

2 Write the answer. a = -2, b = 9 and c = 2

Chapter 8  Further algebra 273

 Worked example 3

Determine values of a and b if m4 + 4 = (m2 + am + 2)(m2 + bm + 2).

Think WriTe
1 The right-hand side must first be expanded. m4 + 4 = m4 + bm3 + 2m2 + am2 + abm2 + 2am +
2m2 + 2bm + 4
= m4 + (b + a)m3 + (4 + ab)m2 + (2a + 2b)m + 4
2 Equate the coefficients. 0m = (b + a)m3
3

The coefficients of m3, m2, ⇒0=b+a [1]

and m are zero.
0m2 = (4 + ab)m2
⇒ 0 = 4 + ab [2]

0m = (2a +2b)m
⇒ 0 = 2a + 2b [3]
3 Solve for a and b. From equation [1],
b = -a
Substitute b = -a into equation [2]
0 = 4 - a2
a2 = 4
a = ±2
a=2 or a = -2
and
b = -2 b=2
4 Write the answer. When a = 2, b = -2 and when a = -2, b = 2.

Worked example 4
eBook plus
If x - 4 is a factor of x3 - 6x2 + 2x + 24, find the other factor.
Tutorial
Think WriTe int-1063
Worked example 4
Method 1: Technology-free
1 Since the expression x3 - 6x2 + 2x + 24 is x3 - 6x2 + 2x + 24 = (x - 4)(ax2 + bx + c)
cubic, the other factor must be a quadratic, RHS = ax3 + bx2 + cx - 4ax2 - 4bx - 4c
hence it is of the form ax2 + bx + c. = ax3 + (b - 4a)x2 + (c - 4b)x - 4c
2 Equate the coefficients. x3 = ax3
⇒1=a [1]

-6x2
= (b - 4a)x2
-6
⇒ = b - 4a [2]

2x = (c - 4b)x
⇒ 2 = c - 4b [3]
3 Solve for a, b and c. Substitute a = 1 into equation [2]
-6 = b - 4a
b = -2
Substitute b = -2 into equation [3]
2 = c - 4b
c = -6

274 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad
 4 Substitute the values for a, b and c into When a = 1, b = -2 and c = -6 then the quadratic factor
ax2 + bx + c and write the answer. of x3 - 6x2 + 2x + 24 is x2 - 2x - 6.
Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, tap:
•  Action
•  Transformation
•  factor
Complete the entry line as:
factor(x3 - 6x2 + 2x + 24)
Then press E.

2 Write the answer. The quadratic factor of x3 - 6x2 + 2x + 24 is x2 - 2x - 6.

REMEMBER

1. A polynomial identity is an identity of the form

knxn + kn - 1 xn - 1 + kn - 2 xn - 2 + .  .  .  .  . + k1x + k0, n ∈ N
where kn, kn - 1 .  .  . are constants and n is an element of the set of natural numbers N.
2. The degree of a polynomial is given by the highest value of n.
3. Polynomials are identical if they are of the same degree and corresponding coefficients
are equal.
4. If two polynomials are known to be equal, then the process of equating coefficients can
be used to solve problems.

Exercise
8A Polynomial identities
  1   WE 1  For each of the following expressions:
   i state whether or not it is a polynomial
ii if yes to i then give its degree.
2 x3 + 2x
a 2x4 + 1 b + x2 + 3 c (3x2 + 2)3 d
3 x
x
  2   WE 2  Find the values of a, b and c if
(2a + b)x3 + (b - c)x2 + (a + 2c)x + 5 = 3x3 - 5x2 + 10x + 5.
  3 Find the values of a, b and c if
x3 + 2x2 - 13x + 16 = (x - 2)(ax2 + bx + c) + 6.
  4 Find constants a, b given that
2x3- 5x2 + 10 = (x - 2)2 (2x + a) + bx + c.
  5   WE 3  Determine the values of a and b if
m4 + 25 = (m2 + am + 5)(m2 + bm + 5).
  6 If x2 = a(x + 1)2 + b(x + 1) + c, find the values of a, b and c.

  7 If ax3 + bx2 + cx + d = (2x - 1)2 (mx + n), express b in terms of c and d.

Chapter 8  Further algebra 275

 8 We 4 If x - 2 is a factor of x3 + 3x2 - 16x + 12, find the other factor.

9 If x + 1 is a factor of x3 - x2 + x + 3, find the other factor.

10 If 2x + 1 is a factor of 2x3 + 7x2 - 7x - 5, find the other factor.

partial fractions
eBook plus
8B Interactivity
When a function is expressed as one polynomial divided by another, int-0975

f(x) = g ( x ) , it is often desirable to express this using partial fractions.

Partial fractions

h( x )
This enables the function to be graphed more easily and also helps with the process of
integration (which you will learn about in Mathematical Methods CAS).

proper fractions
If g(x)and h(x) are both linear functions, then the function can be expressed as a proper fraction
in the form:
b
f(x) = A + .
h( x )

Worked example 5
4x + 5 b
Express in the form A + .
x-3 x-3
Think WriTe

Method 1: Technology-free
1 Express the numerator as 4(x - 3) + b; the 4 x + 5 4( x - 3) + 17
=
value of b must be 17. x-3 x-3
17
2 Write the answer in the form = 4+
x-3
b .
A+
x-3
Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, tap:
•  Action
•  Transformation
•  propFrac
Complete the entry line as:
 4 x + 5
propFrac 
 x - 3 
Then press E.

4x + 5 17
2 Write the answer in the form = 4+
b . x-3 x-3
A+
x-3

276 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad
 Consider the case where g(x) is a polynomial of degree 1 and h(x) is a polynomial of degree 2.
g( x )
In this case the function, f ( x ) = , is a proper fraction, since the numerator has a smaller
h( x )
power than the denominator.
For every linear factor (ax + b) in the denominator, there will be a partial fraction of the form
A
f ( x) = .
ax + b
For every repeated linear factor of the form (ax + b)2 in the denominator, then the partial
A B
fractions will be of the form f ( x ) = + . On occasions when it is impossible
(ax + b) (ax + b)2
A B
to express the partial fractions in the form f ( x ) = + , they can be written as
(ax + b) (ax + b)2
A B C
f ( x) = + + .
(ax + b) (ax + b) (ax + b)2

Worked Example 6

x+3
Express in partial fraction form.
x 2 - 3 x - 40
Think Write

Method 1: Technology-free
x+3 x+3
1 Factorise the denominator x2 - 3x - 40. = , x ∈ R\{-5, 8}
x2 - 3 x - 40 ( x - 8)( x + 5)
2 The denominator has two linear factors so x+3 A B
= +
there will be two partial fractions of the ( x - 8)( x + 5) x - 8 x + 5
A B
form + .
( x - 8) ( x + 5)
3 Express the sum of the two fractions on the x+3 A( x + 5) + B( x - 8)
=
right as a single fraction. ( x - 8)( x + 5) ( x - 8)( x + 5)
4 Equate the numerators and simplify. x + 3 = A(x + 5) + B(x - 8)
x + 3 = Ax + 5A + Bx - 8B
x + 3 = (A + B)x + 5A - 8B
5 Equate the coefficients to solve for A and B. x = (A + B)x
⇒1=A+B
⇒ 1 - B = A [1]
3 = 5A - 8B [2]
Substitute equation [1] into equation [2].
⇒ 3 = 5(1 - B) - 8B
⇒ 13B = 2
2
⇒B=
13
11
⇒ A=
13
6 Substitute the values for A and B and x+3 11 2
= + ,
write the answer in the form x2- 3 x - 40 13( x - 8) 13( x + 5)
A B . x ∈R\{-5, 8}
+
( x - 8) ( x + 5)

Chapter 8  Further algebra 277

 Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, complete the entry line
as:
x+3
x - 3 x - 40
2

Highlight the equation and tap:

•  Interactive
•  Transformation
•  expand
•  Partial Fraction
•  OK

2 Write the answer in the form x+3 11 2

= + ,
A B x2 - 3 x - 40 13( x - 8) 13( x + 5)
+ . x ∈R \ {-5, 8}
( x - 8) ( x + 5)

Worked example 7
eBook plus
Express 2x - 1 in partial fractions. Tutorial
( x - 2 )( x + 1)2 int-1064
Worked example 7
Think WriTe

Method 1: Technology-free
2x - 1 A B C
1 The denominator has one linear factor and = + + ,
one repeated linear factor so there will be ( x - 2)( x + 1) 2 ( x - 2) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)2
three partial fractions of the form x ∈R\{-1, 2}.
A B C
+ + .
( x - 2) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)2
2x - 1
2 Express the sum of the three fractions on =
the right as a single fraction. ( x - 2)( x + 1)2
A( x + 1)2 + B( x - 2)( x + 1) + C ( x - 2)
( x - 2)( x + 1)2

3 Equate the numerators and simplify. 2x -1 = A(x2 + 2x + 1) + B (x2 - x - 2) + C (x - 2)

2x -1 = Ax2 + 2Ax + A + Bx2 - Bx - 2B + Cx - 2C
2x -1 = (A + B)x2 + (2A - B + C)x + A - 2B - 2C
4 Equate the coefficients to solve for A, B 0x2 = (A + B)x2
and C. ⇒ 0=A+B
⇒ A = -B [1]

2x = (2A - B + C)x
⇒ 2 = 2A - B + C [2]

-1 = A - 2B - 2C [3]

278 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad
 -3B
5 Substitute equation [1] into equations [2] +C=2
-3B
and [3]. - 2C = -1
6 Solve these equations simultaneously. 3C = 3
⇒C=1
Hence, -3B + 1 = 2
⇒ -3B = 1
-
⇒B= 1
3
⇒ A= 1
3
2x - 1 1 1 1
7 Substitute the values for A, B and C and = - + ,
write the answer in the form ( x - 2)( x + 1) 2 3( x - 2) 3( x + 1) ( x + 1)2
A B C x ∈R\{-1, 2}
+ + .
( x - 2) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)2
Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, complete the entry line
as:
2x - 1
( x - 2)( x + 1)2
Highlight the equation and tap:
•  Interactive
•  Transformation
•  expand
•  Partial Fraction
•  OK

2x - 1 1 1 1
2 Write the answer in the form = - + ,
( x - 2)( x + 1) 2 3( x - 2) 3( x + 1) ( x + 1)2
A B C
+ + . x ∈R\{-1, 2}
( x - 2) ( x + 1) ( x + 1)2

Sometimes the denominator may consist of an irreducible quadratic (a quadratic which cannot
be factorised using real numbers). These types of functions need to be expressed in partial
fractions of the form:
A Bx + C
f ( x) = + 2 .
ax + b cx + dx + e

Worked Example 8

Express 5 x + 9 x + 10 in partial fractions.

2

x3 - 8
Think Write

Method 1: Technology-free
1 5 x 2 + 9 x + 10 5 x 2 + 9 x + 10
Factorise the denominator. =
x3 - 8 ( x - 2)( x 2 + 2 x + 4)

Chapter 8  Further algebra 279

 5 x 2 + 9 x + 10 A Bx + C
2 The denominator has a linear factor and = +
an irreducible quadratic factor so the x3 - 8 x - 2 x2 + 2x + 4
partial fractions will be of the form x ∈R\{2}.
A Bx + C
+ 2 .
x - 2 x + 2x + 4
3 Express the sum of the two fractions on 5 x 2 + 9 x + 10
=
the right as a single fraction. x3 - 8
A( x 2 + 2 x + 4) + ( Bx + C )( x - 2)
( x - 2)( x 2 + 2 x + 4)
4 Equate the numerators and simplify. 5x2 + 9x + 10 = A(x2 + 2x + 4) + (Bx + C) (x - 2)
= Ax2 + 2Ax + 4A + Bx2 - 2Bx + Cx - 2C)
= (A + B)x2 + (2A - 2B + C)x + 4A -2C
5 Equate the coefficients to solve for A, B 5x2 = (A + B)x
and C. ⇒A+B=5
⇒ B = 5 - A [1]

9x = (2A - 2B + C)x
⇒ 9 = 2A - 2B + C [2]

10 = 4A - 2C [3]
6 Substitute equation [1] into equation [2] Substituting [1] into [2]
and then subtract equation [3] to solve for 2A - 2(5 - A) + C = 9
A, B and C. 4A - 10 + C = 9
4A + C = 9
Subtracting equation [3]
3C = 9
C=3
A=4
B=1
5 x 2 + 9 x + 10 4 x+3
7 Substitute the values for A, B and C and = + , x ∈ R \{2}
write the answer in the form x3 - 8 x - 2 x2 + 2x + 4
A Bx + C
+ .
x - 2 x2 + 2x + 4
Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, complete the entry
line as:
5 x 2 + 9 x + 10
x3 - 8
Highlight the equation and tap:
•  Interactive
•  Transformation
•  expand
•  Partial Fraction
•  OK

280 Maths Quest 11 Advanced General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
 5 x 2 + 9 x + 10 4 x+3
2 Write the answer in the form = + , x ∈ R \{2}
x3 - 8 x - 2 x2 + 2x + 4
A Bx + C
+ .
x - 2 x2 + 2x + 4

improper fractions
g( x )
In the case where g(x) has a higher power than h(x) the function f ( x ) = is an improper
h( x )
fraction. In this case, division of polynomials needs to be performed first either by long division
or synthetic division.

Worked example 9
eBook plus

Express x + 5 x - 2 as a partial fraction.

2
Tutorial
x-1 int-1065
Think WriTe Worked example 9

Method 1: Technology-free
1 The degree of the denominator is less than x - 1 is the divisor.
the degree of the numerator, so division
must be performed first.
x+6
2 Divide the numerator by the denominator )
x - 1 x 2 + 5x - 2
using long division. x2 - x
6x - 2
6x - 6
4
x + 5x - 2
2 4
3 Express the answer as partial fractions. = x+6+ , x ∈ R \{1}
x -1 x -1

Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, complete the entry line
as:
x 2 + 5x - 2
x -1
Highlight the equation and tap:
•  Interactive
•  Transformation
•  expand
•  Partial Fraction
•  OK

x 2 + 5x - 2 4
2 Write the answer. = + x + 6, x ∈R\{1}
x -1 x -1

Chapter 8 Further algebra 281

 rememBer

g( x )
For rational functions of the form f ( x ) = :
h( x )
• If g (x) and h (x) are both linear functions, then the function can be expressed in the
b
form f ( x ) = A + .
h( x )
• Where the numerator is a linear function and the denominator is a quadratic which can
A B
be factorised, then the partial fraction will be of the form f ( x) = + .
ax + b cx + d
• When the denominator has repeated linear factors of the form (ax + b)2 then the partial
A B
fractions will be of the form f ( x ) = + .
(ax + b) (ax + b)2
On occasions when it is impossible to express the partial fractions in the form
A B
f ( x) = + , they can be written as
(ax + b) (ax + b)2
A B C
f ( x) = + + .
(ax + b) (ax + b) (ax + b)2
• When the denominator contains an irreducible quadratic then the partial fractions will
A Bx + C
be of the form f ( x ) = + 2 .
ax + b cx + dx + e
• In the case where g (x) has a higher power than h (x) the function is an improper
fraction so division of polynomials needs to be performed either by long division or
synthetic division.

exerCise
8B partial fractions
1 We5 Express each of the following as the sum of two terms.
2x - 3 4x + 7 x+7 3x - 4
a b c d
x +1 x-2 2x - 1 2x + 2
2 We6 Express each of the following as partial fractions.
x+6 x-5 2x - 1 3x + 2
a b c d
( x + 1)( x - 4) x 2 - 5x + 6 x 2 + 8x - 9 2x2 - 9x + 7
3 We7 Express each of the following as partial fractions.
x -1 x-4 2 x + 14 3x - 5
a b c d
eBook plus ( x + 2)2 x - 6x + 9
2 ( x - 1)( x + 3)2 ( x - 2)( x + 1)2
Digital doc 4 We8 Express each of the following as partial fractions.
WorkSHEET 8.1
x 2 + 3 x + 18 x2 + 5 2
d x + 5x - 1
2
a b c
( x + 1)( x - 2 x + 5)
2
x ( x + 3 x + 1)
2 (x2 - 5 x + 5)( x - 2) x 3 - 27
5 We9 Express each of the following as partial fractions.

a x2 + 3x + 1 b x + 2x - 3
3
c 3x + 2 x - 4 x + 5
3 2
d x +3
3

x+2 x-4 x2 + x + 6 2x - 1

282 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad
 8c Simultaneous equations
It is impossible to solve one linear equation with two unknown variables. There must be two
equations with the same two unknowns for a solution to be found. Such equations are called
simultaneous equations.
There are several different ways to solve simultaneous equations. In this section we consider
algebraic solutions of simultaneous equations arising from the intersection of a line with a
parabola, circle or rectangular hyperbola.

Worked Example 10

Solve simultaneously: y = x and y = x2 + 3x + 1.

Think Write

Method 1: Technology-free
1 Write the equations and label them [1] y = x [1]
and [2]. y = x2 + 3x + 1 [2]
2 Substitute equation [1] into equation [2]. Substituting [1] into [2]:
x2 + 3x + 1 = x
3 Transpose to make the RHS equal 0 and x2 + 3x + 1 − x = 0
simplify. x2 + 2x + 1 = 0
4 Factorise. (x + 1)2 = 0
5 Solve for x. x+1=0
x = −1
6 Substitute −1 instead of x into equation [1]. Substituting −1 into [1]:
y = −1
7 Write the answer. Solution set: (−1, −1)
Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, using the soft
keyboard, tap:
•  )
•  {N
Enter the equations as shown.
Then press E.

2 Write the answer. Solving y = x and y = x2 + 3x +1 for x

and y gives x = -1 and y = -1.
That is, (-1, -1).

Chapter 8  Further algebra 283

 Worked example 11
eBook plus
Solve simultaneously: y = x + 1 and x2 + y2 = 4.
Tutorial
Think WriTe int-1066
Worked example 11
Method 1: Technology-free
1 Write the equations and label them [1] y=x+1 [1]
and [2]. x2 + y2 = 4 [2]
2 Substitute equation [1] into equation [2]. Substituting [1] into [2]:
x2 + (x + 1)2 = 4
3 Expand (x + 1)2, using the perfect square x2 + x2 + 2x + 1 - 4 = 0
identity and transpose to make the RHS = 0. 2x2 + 2x - 3 = 0
4 Solve for x, using the quadratic formula. a = 2, b = 2, c = -3
-2
± 22 - 4 × 2 × (-3)
x=
2×2
- ±
2 4 + 24
=
4
-
2 ± 28
=
4
-
2±2 7
=
4
-1 ± 7
=
2
-1 + -1 -
7 7
5 Write the two values of x separately. x1 = , x2 =
2 2
-1 + -1 +
7 7
6 Substitute instead of x into y1 = +1
2 2
equation [1] and simplify. -
1+ 7 2
= +
2 2
-
1+ 7 + 2
=
2
1+ 7
=
2
-1 - -1 -
7 7
7 Substitute instead of x into y2 = +1
2 2
equation [1] and simplify. -
1- 7 2
= +
2 2
-
1- 7 + 2
=
2
1- 7
=
2

284 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad
  -1 + 7 1 + 7 
8 Write the answer. (Make sure the values of Solution set:  2 , 2  ,
 
x and y are matched properly; that is, x1 is
placed with y1 and x2 with y2.)  -1 - 7 1 - 7 
 2 , 2 
 

Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, using the soft
keyboard, tap:
•  )
•  {N
Enter the equations as shown.
Then press E.

2 Write the answer. Solving y = x + 1 and x2 + y2 = 4 for x and y gives

-( -
x= 7 + 1) and y = ( 7 - 1) or
2 2
7 -1 7 +1
x= and y =
2 2
That is,
 - ( 7 + 1) - ( 7 - 1)  7 - 1 7 + 1
 2
,
2  or  2 , 2  .
   

Worked Example 12

2
Solve simultaneously: y = 2x − 1 and y = .
x-3
Think Write
Method 1: Technology-free
1 Write the equations and label them [1] and y = 2x - 1 [1]
[2]. 2
y= [2]
x-3
2 Substitute equation [1] into equation [2]. Substituting [1] into [2]:
2
2x - 1 =
x-3

Chapter 8  Further algebra 285

 3 Solve for x:
(a) Multiply both sides of the equation by (2x − 1)(x − 3) = 2
(x − 3).
(b)  Expand and make the RHS = 0. 2x2 − 7x + 1 = 0
(c)  Identify the values of a, b and c. a = 2, b = − 7, c = 1

7 ± (-7)2 - 4 × 2 × 1
(d) Substitute the values of a, b and c into the x=
quadratic formula and simplify. 2×2
7 ± 49 - 8
=
4
7 ± 41
=
4

7 + 41 7 - 41
4 Write the two values of x separately. x1 = , x2 =
4 4
 7 + 41 
5 Substitute 7 + 41 into [1] and simplify. y1 = 2 ×  -1
4  4 
7 + 41 2
= -
2 2
5 + 41
=
2
7 - 41  7 - 41 
6 Substitute into [1] and simplify. y2 = 2 ×  -1
4  4 
7 - 41 2
= -
2 2
5 - 41
=
2
 7 + 41 5 + 41 
7 Write the answer (leave it in surd form). Solution set:  , ,
 4 2 

 7 - 41 5 - 41 
 , 
 4 2 

Method 2: Technology-enabled
1 On the Main screen, using the soft keyboard,
tap:
•  )
•  {N
Enter the equations as shown.
Then press E.

286 Maths Quest 11 Advanced General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
 2
2 Write the answer. Solving y = 2 x - 1 and y = for x and y gives
x-3
-( -( 41 - 5)
41 - 7)
x= and y =
4 4
41 + 7 41 + 5
or x = and y =
4 4
That is,
 - ( 41 - 7) - ( 41 - 5)   41 + 7 41 + 5 
 ,  or  , .
 4 4   4 4 

rememBer

Simultaneous equations, arising from the intersection of a line with a parabola, circle or a
rectangular hyperbola, can be solved using algebra as follows:
1. Transpose one of the equations (it is better to choose a linear equation) to make either
x or y the subject and substitute into the other equation.
2. Simplify the resulting equation (if properly simplified, it will result in a quadratic
equation).
3. Solve the quadratic equation to find the value(s) of one variable.
4. Substitute the value(s) of the first variable into either of the two equations (preferably
into the transposed one) and solve for the second variable.
5. Write the solution set.

exerCise
eBook plus
8C simultaneous equations
Digital doc
1 We 10 Solve each of the following simultaneously. SkillSHEET 8.1
a y = x, y = x2 + 5x + 4 b y = -x, y = x2 + 3x + 4 Using substitution
to solve simultaneous
c y = 2x, y = x2 + 4x + 1 d y = 3x, y = x + 8x + 6
2
equations
e y = -2x, y = x2 - 2x - 1 f y = x + 5, y = x2 − 4x + 11
x2
g y + x = 1, y = 3x2 + 2x - 1 h 2x + 3y = 6, y = -4
2
i 2x - 4y = 12, y = -2x2 + x + 6 j 2y + 6x = 4, y = 4 - 3x2
2 We 11 Solve each of the following simultaneously.
a y = x, y2 + x2 = 1 b y = -x, y2 + x2 = 1
c y = 2x, x 2 + y2 = 4 d y = 1 - x, 4 = y2 + x2
e x + y = 2, x + y - 9 = 0
2 2 f y - x - 3 = 0, (x + 3)2 + y2 = 16
x
g y = 1 - , (x - 2)2 + y2 - 1 = 0 h y + 2 = 3x, (x - 1)2 + (y + 3)2 = 4
2
i 2 x + 4y = 4, x2 + (y + 1)2 = 25 j 6x - 3y = 12, (x - 2)2 + (y - 1)2 - 36 = 0
3 We 12 Solve each of the following simultaneously.
2 4
a y = 2x, y = b y = x + 1, y =
x -1 2- x
4 1
c y = 3x - 4, y = d y = 1 - 2x, y = -1
1 - 2x x+2

Chapter 8 Further algebra 287

 2 3
e 2y - x = 6, y - 3 = f 2x + 4y - 8 = 0, y + 1 =
x -1 2- x
2 2
g x - 3 = 2y, y = h x = 2y - 4,
-1 - y = 0
x -1 3x
1 1
i 4x - 3y = 12, 4 - =y j x + y = 5, =y+2
3x - 2 4 - 3x
4 mC Which of the following represent the solution to the pair of simultaneous equations
x + y = 6 and y = 3x2 + 12x + 10?
i ( -1
3
1
,63 ) ii (-1, 7) iii (-1, 1) iv (-4, 10)

A i only B i and ii C ii and iv D ii and iii E i and iv

5 Buttons are to be attached to a shirt as shown on the diagram
y = −x y=x
at right.
If we draw a set of axes through the centre of the button,
the position of the two holes can be described as the points of
intersection of the line y = x with the circle x2 + y2 = 1. The
other two holes are positioned at the points of intersection of
the line y = -x with the same circle. Find the coordinates of the
four holes. Give the answer correct to 2 decimal places.
y2 + x2 = 1
eBook plus

Digital doc
WorkSHEET 8.2

288 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad
Summary
Polynomials
• A polynomial identity is an identity of the form:
kn xn + kn - 1xn - 1 + kn - 2 x n - 2 + .  .  .  .  . + k1x + k0, n ∈ N
where kn , kn - 1.  .  . are constants and n is contained within the set of natural numbers N.
• The degree of a polynomial is given by the highest value of n.
• Polynomials are identical if they are of the same degree and corresponding coefficients are equal.
• If two polynomials are known to be equal, then the process of equating coefficients can be used.

Partial fractions
g( x )
For rational functions of the form f ( x ) = :
h( x ) b
• If g(x) and h(x) are both linear functions, then the function can be expressed in the form f ( x ) = A + .
h( x )
• Where the numerator is a linear function and the denominator is a quadratic which can be factorised, then the
A B
partial fraction will be of the form f ( x ) = + .
ax + b cx + d
• When the denominator has repeated linear factors of the form (ax + b)2 then the partial fractions will be of
A B
the form f ( x ) = + . On occasions when it is impossible to express the partial fractions in
(ax + b) (ax + b)2
A B A B C
the form f ( x ) = + , they can be written as f ( x ) = + + .
(ax + b) (ax + b)2 (ax + b) (ax + b) (ax + b)2
• When the denominator contains an irreducible quadratic then the partial fractions will be of the form
A Bx + C
f ( x) = + .
(ax + b) cx 2 + dx + e
• In the case where g(x) has a higher power than h(x), the function is then an improper fraction so division of
polynomials needs to be performed either by long division or synthetic division.

Simultaneous equations
Simultaneous equations, arising from the intersection of a line with a parabola, circle or a rectangular
hyperbola, can be solved using algebra as follows:
• Transpose one of the equations (it is better to choose a linear equation) to make either x or y the subject and
substitute into the other equation.
• Simplify the resulting equation (if properly simplified, it will result in a quadratic equation).
• Solve the quadratic equation to find the value(s) of one variable.
• Substitute the value(s) of the first variable into either of the two equations (preferably into the transposed
one) and solve for the second variable.
• Write the solution set.

Chapter 8  Further algebra 289

 chapter review
4x + 2 A B
Short answer 3 If = + , then:
( x + 2)( x - 4) x + 2 x - 4
1 Determine the values of a and b where
A A = 1, B = 3 B A = 3, B = 1
x4 + 7x3 +12x2 + x - 1 = (x2 + ax + 1)(x2 + bx - 1). C A = 1, B = 4 D A = 4, B = 1
2 x - 2 is a factor of x3 + x2 - 11x + 10; find the other E A = 2, B = 3
factor. 5 x 2 + x + 12 A Bx + C
x - 22 4 If = + , then the
3 Express as partial fractions. x3 + 2x 2 + 4 x x x 2 + 2x + 4
x 2 - 8 x - 20
values of A, B and C would be:
x3 - 2x 2 + x - 1
4 Express as partial fractions. A A = 1, B = 2, C = 3 B A = 1, B = 3, C = 2
x2 - 2
5 Find the coordinates of the points of intersection of C A = 1, B = 2, C = 5 D A = -3, B = 2, C = 5
-
E A = 3, B = 2, C = 5
15
the line y = 5x with the hyperbola y = .
x-2 5 A solution to the pair of simultaneous equations
6 Find the coordinates of the points of intersection of 23
the line y = x with the parabola y = 4 - x2. y = 1.5x and y = + 2.71 is:
20( x - 4)
Multiple choice
A  5 , 3  B  5 9
 ,  C  3 , 15 
2 2 2 4 2 4
1 If 2x3 + 7x2 - 16x + 6 = (2x - 1)(ax2 + bx + c), then  3 9
the values of a, b and c are: D  ,  E none of these
2 4
A a = 1, b = 4, c = 6 B a = -1, b = -4, c = 6 x
C a = 1, b = 4, c = -6 D a = 1, b = -4, c = 6 6 The equation y = 1 - and (y − 1)2 + (x − 3)2 = 9
E a = 1, b = 4, c = -5 4
are solved simultaneously. When one of the
2 If 2x2 - 5x - 3 = a(x - b)(x - c) then the values of equations is substituted into the other and the
a, b and c are resultant equation is transposed to the form
A a = 2, b = 3, c = 1 B a = 1, b = 3, c = 1 ax2 + bx + c = 0, the values of a, b and c are:
1 -
C a = 2, b = 3, c = D a = 2, b = 3, c = 1 A
17 -
, 6, 18 B
17 -
, 6, 0 C
1 -
, 6, 0
2 2 6 6 16
1 1 17 -
E a = 1, b = 3, c = D 16, -6, 9 E , 6, 9
2 16

extended response

1 Find the coordinates of the points of intersection of the line y = x with:

2
a the hyperbola y = +6
3x - 1
b the circle (y + 1)2 + x2 − 4 = 0.
In each case give the answer correct to 2 decimal places.
2 Consider the design, shown on the diagram at right: E G
C F I
If we take the point of intersection of the straight lines to be an origin, the design
can be described by the following system of equations: D H
B J
y=x
A K
     y = −x T L
1 S M
  y =
x R N
-1 QP O
  y =
x
y=0
x=0
x2 + y2 = 4

290 Maths Quest 11 Advanced General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
 As can be seen from the diagram, there are 20 points of intersection (not counting the centre point).
a What is the radius of a circle described by the equation x2 + y2 = 4?
b Using the answer to a, state the coordinates of points A, F, K and P.
c Find the coordinates of point I by solving an appropriate pair of simultaneous equations algebraically.
Leave the answer in a surd form.
d State the coordinates of points C, R and N using symmetry.
e Find the coordinates of point H by solving algebraically an appropriate pair of simultaneous equations.
f Using the symmetry of the design and your answer to part e, write the coordinates of points D, S and M.
1
g State the points of intersection of the hyperbola y = and the circle.
x
h Find the coordinates of the points in question g by solving an appropriate pair of equations graphically,
using a table of values or one of the iteration methods. Give the answer correct to 2 decimal places.
-1
i State the points of intersection of the hyperbola y = and the circle.
x
j Choose a method and use it to find the coordinates of the points in question i. Give the answer correct to
2 decimal places.
3 A section of a roller coaster track is shown at right. It consists
of three parts with the following equations:
3 2
AB: h=- d + 10
16

BC: h = 163 d 2 - 3d + 16
CDE: h = 0.02d 3 - 1.25d 2 + 25d - 147.56
where h is the height of the track above the ground level and
d is the horizontal distance from A.
a Find the coordinates of point B, by solving a pair of
simultaneous equations algebraically.
b The track is closest to the ground when it is 8 metres horizontally from A. What is its height at that
point?
c Find the horizontal distance(s) from A, when the car is 6 metres above ground level.
d Use a CAS calculator to find the coordinates of point C.
e By using a table of values or otherwise, find the h
E
coordinates of point D.
f Point E is 30 metres horizontally from A and is the D
Height (m)

highest point of this section of the track. Find the

maximum height of the track. A
g The track runs alongside the amusements pavilion. The B C
roof of the pavilion follows the rule h = 0.4d + 4. As seen
from the diagram, the car, while on this section of the
track, will be level with the roof four times. Find the
Distance d
height of the car above the ground at each of these four
points.
eBook plus

Digital doc
Test Yourself
Chapter 8

Chapter 8 Further algebra 291

 eBook plus aCTiviTies

Chapter opener
Digital doc
• 10 Quick Questions: Warm up with ten quick
questions on further algebra. (page 272)
8A Polynomial identities
Tutorial
• We4 int-1063: Watch how to find the quadratic factor
of a cubic given the linear factor. (page 274)
8B Partial fractions
Tutorials
• We7 int-1064: Watch how to express a linear
function divided by a cubic as a partial fraction. Chapter review
(page 278) Digital doc
• We9 int-1065: Watch how to express a cubic divided • Test Yourself: Take the end-of-chapter test to test
by a linear function as a partial fraction. (page 281) your progress. (page 291)
Digital doc
• WorkSHEET 8.1: Use the bisection and secant To access eBookPLUS activities, log on to
methods as well as the null factor law to solve www.jacplus.com.au
simple and complex simultaneous equations, and
apply learning to worded problems. (page 282)
Interactivity
• Partial fractions int-0975: Consolidate your
understanding of how to determine partial fractions.
(page 276)
8C Simultaneous equations
Tutorial
• We11 int-1066: Watch how to solve simultaneously a
linear and an elliptical equation. (page 284)
Digital docs
• SkillSHEET 8.1: Practise using substitution to solve
simultaneous equations. (page 287)
• WorkSHEET 8.2: Practise finding solutions to linear
and non-linear simultaneous equations. (page 288)

292 maths Quest 11 advanced General mathematics for the Casio Classpad