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Date May 2012 Marks available 2 Reference code 12M.1.sl.TZ2.12
Level SL only Paper 1 Time zone TZ2
Command term Write down Question number 12 Adapted from N/A

Question

The diagram shows part of the graph of \(y = 2^{-x} + 3 \), and its horizontal asymptote. The graph passes through the points (0, a) and (b, 3.5).

Find the value of

(i) a ;

(ii) b .

[4]
a.

Write down the equation of the horizontal asymptote to this graph.

[2]
b.

Markscheme

(i) 20 + 3     (M1)

Note: Award (M1) for correct substitution.


= 4     (A1)     (C2)

 

(ii) 3.5 = 2b + 3     (M1)

Note: Award (M1) for correct substitution.


b = 1     (A1)     (C2)


[4 marks]

a.

y = 3     (A1)(A1)     (C2)

Notes: y = constant (other than 3) award (A1)(A0).

[2 marks]

b.

Examiners report

Most candidates answered parts (a) i and ii correctly, however a large number of candidates could not find the correct equation for part (b).

a.

Most candidates answered parts (a) i and ii correctly, however a large number of candidates could not find the correct equation for part (b).

b.

Syllabus sections

Topic 6 - Mathematical models » 6.4 » Concept and equation of a horizontal asymptote.

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