DIFFERENTIAL CALCULUS

PART 1
(LIMIT, 1ST PRINCIPLE AND
DERIVATIVE USING RULES)

GRADE 12
PAST EXAM PAPERS
EMAILBY
ADDRESS: melulekishabalala@gmail.com
MR M. SHABALALA CELLPHONE NUMBER: 0733318802 Page 1
@NOMBUSO
 CALCULUS
It helps us to understand any change in different variables ,eg measure instantaneous changes in
rate of population growth, behavior of particles, economics profit and losses also determining the
spread of disease. It is basically the MATHEMATICS OF CHANGE. Wherever there is a
change in one variable produce changes in another, therefore calculus helps us to understand that
changes occur. LIMIT - The limit of the function is the value of 𝑦 to which the graph approaches
as the values of 𝑥 approach a certain value from both the left and right side of that point. It will
be explored more at University.

AVERAGE GRADIENT

The Average gradient (average rate of change) of a function, it is like the gradient of the line
between two points, change in 𝑦 divided by change in 𝑥.

EXAMPLE:

1.1 Find the limit of the following functions.

a) b)

1.2 If 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥 3 find the average gradient between 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = 2

1. “NEW MAIN TOPIC” FIRST PRINCIPLE

• Reads as: Derivative (𝑓′(𝑥)) of 𝑓(𝑥) as ℎ approaches zero.

• General formula to find average gradient(slope) of a function at any point(Derivative)

EXAMPLES OF DERIVATIVE USING 1ST PRINCIPLE

1.3 Find 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principle.
5
a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 − 5 b) 𝑓(𝑥) = c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 d) 𝑓(𝑥) = 5
𝑥

1.4 In each of the following case find the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) by 1st principle at the point where 𝑥 = −1
1 2
a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 2 b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 2 c) 𝑓(𝑥) = − 𝑥 3 d) 𝑓(𝑥) =
2 5𝑥

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 2

DIFFERENTIATE THE FOLLOWING BY USING 1ST PRINCIPLE?

a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 24 OR b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 OR c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 + 𝑥 12

WOW! ☺☺ it seems as if it is a challenge now if exponent is too big!

 So far we have dealt with average gradient (gradient between the two or more points)
 Now we will be introduced to the concept of gradient at a point.
 DIFFERENTIATION – Is used to find gradient at a specific point

TWO METHODS OF DETERMINING THE DERIVATIVE

( GRADIENT)
DETERMINE THE DERIVATIVE DETERMINE THE DERIVATIVE USING THE
RULES OF DIFFERENTIATION
FROM FIRST PRINCIPLE
1. Derivative of a constant
2. The power rule
′( )
𝒇(𝒙 + 𝒉) − 𝒇(𝒙) 3. Derivative of a function × a constant
𝒇 𝒙 = lim 4. The sum rule
𝒉→𝟎 𝒉 5. The difference rule

2. THE RULES FOR DIFFERENTIATION

➢ THE RULES FOR DIFFERENTIATION - allow you to differentiate functions without
going through the process of differentiating from first principles.
➢ ALWAYS USE RULES TO DIFFERENTIATE UNLESS IF IT STATED TO USE 1ST
PRINCIPLE
RULE 1 RULE 2
➢ DERIVATIVE OF CONSTANT IS 0 ➢ THE POWER RULE
➢ f(x) = k → ∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 0 ➢ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 𝑛 →∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑛𝑥 𝑛−1
➢ Eg. f(x)= 𝑥 6 →∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 6𝑥 6−1
EXAMPLE f(x) = 5 → ∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 0 ∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 6𝑥 5
RULE 3
DERIVATIVE OF FUNCTION MULTIPLIED BY A CONSTANT
➢ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘. 𝑔(𝑥) →∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑘. 𝑔′ (𝑥)
EXAMPLE F(x) = 5 𝑥 3 →∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 5 × 3𝑥 3−1 = 15𝑥 2
RULE 4 RULE 5
➢ THE SUM RULE ➢ THE DIFFERENCE RULE
➢ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑔(𝑥) + ℎ(𝑥) ➢ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑔(𝑥) − ℎ(𝑥)
→∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑔′(𝑥) + ℎ′(𝑥) →∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 𝑔(𝑥) − ℎ(𝑥)
EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 + 8𝑥 →∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 4 × 2𝑥 2−1 + 8 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 →∴ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 3 × 2𝑥 2−1 − 5

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 3

 EXAMPLES OF DIFFERENTIATION USING THE RULES

Before differentiating remove the following:

• Brackets
• Fractions(no variable(e.g x) must be in denominator)
• Surds(√𝑥 remove all radical signs, to exponential form)
𝑑𝑦
f ′(𝑥) , , 𝐷𝑡 it’s a notation one and same thing. 𝑓 ′′(𝑥) it is a second derivative
𝑑𝑥

1) Given that 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 − 3𝑥 2 + 5 determine 𝑓′(𝑥).

𝑑𝑦
2. Determine if 𝑦 = (2𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3)
𝑑𝑥

𝑡 2 + 5𝑡 + 6
3) Determine 𝐷𝑡 = [ ]
𝑡+2

𝑥2 3
4) Given that 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = + find 𝑓′(𝑥)
3 𝑥3
𝑑 4
5) Determine [ − √𝑥 3 ]
𝑑𝑥 𝑥3
𝑑
6) Determine [√𝑥 2 + (2𝑥 )−4 ]
𝑑𝑥

𝑡 2 + 5𝑡 + 6 (𝒙 + 𝟐)𝟑
7) Determine 𝐷𝑡 = [ ] or Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) if 𝒇(𝒙) =
𝑡 √𝒙

8) Given that 𝑓 (𝜃 ) = 2𝜃 3 − 3𝜃 2 + 5 find 𝑓′′(𝜃)

𝑑
9) Determine [𝑦𝑥 − 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 ]
𝑑𝑥

10) Given: 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑎

Determine:

𝑑𝑦
10.1
𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦
10.2
𝑑𝑎
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 4
QUESTION 1 (FEB/MARCH 2010)
1
1.1 Differentiate 𝑓 from first principle: 𝑓(𝑥) = (4)
𝑥
𝑑𝑦
1.2 Use the rules of differentiation to determine if 𝑦 = (2 − 5𝑥)2 (3)
𝑑𝑥

[7]

QUESTION 2 (NOVEMBER 2010)

2.1 Differentiate 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 5 from first principles. (5)

𝑑𝑦 𝑥6
2.2 Evaluate if 𝑦= + 4√𝑥 (3)
𝑑𝑥 2
𝑏
2.3 A function 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + has a minimum value at 𝑥 = 4. The function at
𝑥

𝑥 = 4 is 96. Calculate the value of 𝑎 and 𝑏. (6)

[14]

QUESTION 3 (FEB/MARCH 2011)

3.1 Differentiate 𝑓 from first principle: 𝑓(𝑥) = 1 − 3𝑥 2 (4)
4 1
3.2 Calculate 𝐷𝑥 [4 − 3 − ]. (3)
𝑥 𝑥4
𝑑𝑦 2
3.3 Determine if 𝑦 = (1 + √𝑥) . (3)
𝑑𝑥

[10]
QUESTION 4 (NOVEMBER 2011)
4.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principle if 𝑓(𝑥) = −4𝑥 2 (5)

4.2 Evaluate:

𝑑𝑦 3 𝑥2
4.2.1 if 𝑦= − (3)
𝑑𝑥 2𝑥 2

4.2.2 𝑓′(1) if 𝑓(𝑥) = (7𝑥 + 1)2 (4)

[12]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 5

QUESTION 5 (FEB/MARCH 2012)

5.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principle if 𝑓(𝑥) = 9 − 𝑥 2 . (5)

5.2 Evaluate:

5.2.1 𝐷𝑥 [ 1 + 6√𝑥 ]. (2)

𝑑𝑦 8 − 3𝑥 6
5.2.2 if 𝑦= (4)
𝑑𝑥 8𝑥 5

[11]

QUESTION 6 (NOVEMBER 2012)

6.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 − 5. (5)

𝑑𝑦 𝑥
6.2 Evaluate if 𝑦 = 𝑥 −4 + 2𝑥 3 − . (3)
𝑑𝑥 5

𝑥2 + 𝑥 − 2
6.3 Given: 𝑔(𝑥 ) =
𝑥−1

6.3.1 Calculate 𝑔′ (𝑥) for 𝑥 ≠ 1. (2)

6.3.2 Explain why it is no possible to determine 𝑔′ (1). (1)

[11]

QUESTION 6 (FEB/MARCH 2013)

7.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 . (5)

𝑑𝑦 2√𝑥 + 1
7.2 Determine if 𝑦= (4)
𝑑𝑥 𝑥2

7.3 Calculate the values of 𝑎 and 𝑏 if 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 5 has a tangent at

𝑥 = −1 which is defined by the equation 𝑦 = −7𝑥 + 3. (6)

[15]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 6

QUESTION 8 (NOVEMBER 2013)
8.1 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 4

8.1.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principle. (5)

8.1.2 A(𝑥 ; 23), where 𝑥 > 0, and B(−2 ; 𝑦) are points on the graph of

𝑓. Calculate the numerical value of the average gradient of 𝑓

Between A and B. (5)
𝑥+5
8.2 Differentiate 𝑦 = with respect to 𝑥. (3)
√𝑥

8.3 Determine the gradient of the tangent of the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = −3𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 + 5

at 𝑥 = −1. (4)
[17]

QUESTION 9 (FEB/MARCH 2014)

2
9.1 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = −
𝑥

9.1.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles. (5)

9.1.2 For which value(s) of 𝑥 will 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) > 0? Justify your answer. (2)

𝑑𝑦 1
9.2 Evaluate if 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥. (2)
𝑑𝑥 4

3
9.3 Given: 𝑦 = 4( √𝑥 2 ) and 𝑥 = 𝑤 −3

𝑑𝑦
Determine . (4)
𝑑𝑤

9.4 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑

Draw a possible sketch of 𝑦 = 𝑓′(𝑥) if 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 are all NEGATIVE real

numbers. (4)

[17]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 7

QUESTION 10 (NOVEMBER 2014)
10.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 . (5)

1
10.2 Determine the derivative of : 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 4 − 3. (2)
2

𝑑𝑦
10.3 If 𝑦 = (𝑥 6 − 1)2 , prove that = 12𝑥 5 √𝑦 , if 𝑥 > 1. (3)
𝑑𝑥

10.4 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 − 2𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 1. Determine the interval on which

𝑓 is concave up. (4)

[14]

QUESTION 11 (FEB/MARCH 2015)

11.1 Determine the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 + 4 from first principles. (4)

11.2 Differentiate:

11.2.1 𝑓(𝑥) = −3𝑥 2 + 5√𝑥. (3)

1 2
11.2.2 𝑝 (𝑥 ) = ( + 4𝑥) (4)
𝑥3
[11]

QUESTION 12 (JUNE 2015)

12.1 Determine the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 from first principles. (5)

12.2 Determine, using the rules for differentiation, the following:

𝑑𝑦 1
12.2.1` if 𝑦 = √𝑥 3 − 𝑥 4 (3)
𝑑𝑥 2

𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 4
12.2.2 𝐷𝑥 [ ] (4)
𝑥2

[12]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 8

QUESTION 13 (SEPTEMBER 2015)
13.1 Determine the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 from first principles. (5)

13.2 Evaluate:

𝑑𝑦 3
13.2.1 if 𝑦 = 3𝑥 2 . √8𝑥 4 (3)
𝑑𝑥

𝑥 3 −5𝑥 2 +4𝑥
13.2.2 𝑓′(𝑥) if 𝑓(𝑥 ) = (4)
𝑥−4

[12]

QUESTION 14 (NOVEMBER 2015)

14.1 If 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 , determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles. (5)

14.2 Determine:

𝑑𝑦 2 1 2
14.2.1 if 𝑦 = (𝑥 − ) (3)
𝑑𝑥 𝑥2

𝑥 3 −1
14.2.2 𝐷𝑥 ( 𝑥−1 ) (3)

[11]

QUESTION 15 (FEB/MARCH 2016)

15.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4. (5)

15.2 Determine the derivative of:

15.2.1 𝑦 = 3𝑥 2 + 10𝑥 (2)

3 2
15.2.2 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − ) (3)
𝑥

[10]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 9

QUESTION 16 (JUNE 2016)
16.1 Determine the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥 2 + 5 from first principles. (5)
16.2 Determine the derivative of the following using the rules for differentiation.
𝑥 3 − 27
16.2.1 𝑦= (4)
3−𝑥

7
16.2.2 𝐷𝑥 [√𝑥 (2𝑥 − 3 )] (4)
√𝑥
[13]

QUESTION 17 (SEPTEMBER 2016)

17.1 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 . Determine the derivative of 𝑓 from first principles. (5)

17.2 Determine:
4
17.2.1 𝑓′(𝑥) if 𝑓(𝑥 ) = √𝑥 − (4)
𝑥2
𝑑𝑦 1
17.2.2 if 𝑥 2 − 3 = √𝑦 (4)
𝑑𝑥 2

[13]

QUESTION 18 (NOVEMBER 2016)

18.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 (5)

18.2 John determines 𝑔′(𝑎), the derivative of a certain function 𝑔 at 𝑥 = 𝑎, and arrives

lim √4 + ℎ − 2
at the answer: ℎ→0.
ℎ

Write down the equation of 𝑔 and the value of 𝑎. (2)

𝑑𝑦 5
18.3 Determine if 𝑦 = √𝑥 3 − (4)
𝑑𝑥 𝑥3

18.4 𝑔(𝑥) = −8𝑥 + 20 is a tangent to 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 18 at 𝑥 = 1.

Calculate the values of 𝑎 and 𝑏. (5)

[16]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 10
QUESTION 19 (FEB/MARCH 2017)

19.1 Determine 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) from first principles if 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 5. (5)

2𝑥
19.2 Determine the derivative of : 𝑔(𝑥) = 5𝑥 2 − (3)
𝑥3

19.3 Given: ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 , 𝑥 > 0.

Determine the value of 𝑎 if it is given that ℎ−1 (8) = ℎ′(4). (6)
[14]
QUESTION 20 (MARCH 2017)

20.1 Determine the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 from first principles. (5)

20.2 Evaluate
𝑑𝑦 3
20.2.1 if 𝑦 = 3𝑥 2 . √8𝑥 4 (4)
𝑑𝑥

𝑥 3 −5𝑥 2 + 4𝑥
20.2.2 𝑓′(𝑥) if 𝑓(𝑥 ) = (5)
𝑥−4
[14]
QUESTION 21 (JUNE 2017)
2
21.1 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = Determine the derivative of 𝑓 from first principles. (5)
3𝑥

21.2 Evaluate

21.2.1 𝑓′(𝑥) if 𝑓(𝑥) = 3(𝑥 2 − 5)2 . (4)

𝑑𝑦
21.2.2 if 𝑥 2 − 3 = 3√𝑦. (5)
𝑑𝑥

[14]
QUESTION 22 (NOVEMBER 2017)

22.1 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 − 𝑥 . Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles. (6)

22.2 Determine:

22.2.1 𝐷𝑥 [(𝑥 + 1)(3𝑥 − 7)] (2)

𝑑𝑦 5 1
22.2.2 if 𝑦 = √𝑥 3 − + 𝜋. (4)
𝑑𝑥 𝑥 2
[12]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 11

QUESTION 23 (FEB/MARCH 2018)
23.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 . (5)
23.2 Determine:

𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 3
23.2.1 𝐷𝑥 [ ] (3)
𝑥+1

23.2.2 𝑓′′(𝑥) if 𝑓(𝑥) = √𝑥 (3)

[11]

QUESTION 24 (JUNE 2018)

24.1 Determine the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 from first principles. (5)

24.2 Determine the derivative with respect to 𝑥 if:

𝑥 2− 4
24.2.1 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = (4)
𝑥
3
24.2.2. 𝑔(𝑥 ) = √𝑥 4 + (3𝑥 )−2 (4)

[13]

QUESTION 25 (SEPTEMBER 2018)

25.1 Determine the derivative of 𝑓(𝑥) = −5𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 from first principles. (5)
1
25.2 Calculate 𝑔′(4) if 𝑔(𝑥 ) = (4)
2√𝑥

25.3 Determine 𝐷𝑥 [(2𝑥 − 3)3 ] (4)

[13]

QUESTION 26 (NOVEMBER 2018)

26.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if it is given 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 5. (5)
𝑑𝑦
26.2 Determine if :
𝑑𝑥

26.2.1 𝑦 = 3𝑥 3 + 6𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 4 (3)

26.2.2 𝑦𝑥 − 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 ; 𝑥 ≠ 1 (4)

[12]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 12

QUESTION 27 (JUNE 2019)
27.1 Determine 𝑓′(3) from first principles given 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥 2 + 4. (5)

27.2 Differentiate:

1 2
27.2.1 𝑔(𝑥 ) = (2𝑥 − ) (4)
2𝑥

𝑥3 − 1
27.2.2 𝐷𝑥 [ ] (4)
1−𝑥
[13]

QUESTION 28 (SEPTEMBER 2019)

1
28.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles given 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 𝑥. (5)
2

28.2 Determine:
𝑑 5
28.2.1 [3𝑥 4 + √𝑥 + 𝑎2 ] (3)
𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦
28.2.2 , if 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑥 2 − 1 (4)
𝑑𝑥

[12]

QUESTION 29 (NOVEMBER 2019)

29.1 Determine 𝑓′(𝑥) from first principles if it is given that 𝑓(𝑥) = 4 − 7𝑥. (4)
𝑑𝑦
29.2 Determine
𝑑𝑥
if 𝑦 = 4𝑥 8 + √𝑥 3 (3)

29.3 Given: 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑎

Determine:
𝑑𝑦
29.3.1 (1)
𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦
29.3.2 (2)
𝑑𝑎
12
29.4 The curve with equation 𝑦 = 𝑥 + passes through the point A(2 ; 𝑏).
𝑥

Determine the equation of the line perpendicular to the tangent to the curve at A. (4)
[14]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 13
 DIFFERENTIAL CALCULUS

PART 2
(CUBIC FUNCTION & EQUATION
OF TANGENT)

GRADE 12
PAST EXAM PAPERS
EMAILBY
ADDRESS: melulekishabalala@gmail.com
MR M. SHABALALA CELLPHONE NUMBER: 0733318802 Page 14
@NOMBUSO
 1. CUBIC FUNCTION
A) FORM
• 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 (standard form)
3 2

• 𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 + 𝐵1 )2 (𝑥 + 𝐵2 ) (turning point form)

• 𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 + 𝐵1 )(𝑥 + 𝐵2 )(𝑥 + 𝐵3 ) (intercept form) where 𝑩𝟏 , 𝑩𝟐 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝟑 𝒙-intercepts

✓ Cubic function have 2 turning points

✓ Derivative of Cubic function yield PARABOLA
B) STEPS TO SKETCH OR DRAW
1) Shape ………..HINT FISH APPROACH

2) Turning point (STATIONARY POINTS)

Steps: 1.Derive (𝑓′(𝑥)) 2. Equate to zero (𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 0) 3. Substitute back to the original

3) 𝒚- intercept , let 𝑥 = 0 and 𝒙 – intercept , let 𝑦 = 0

NEW SOLVING 𝒙-intercept STEPS
1) Determine factor (number that will make equation =0)
2) Determine the coefficient of 𝑥 2 and the constant by inspection.
3) Determine the coefficient of 𝑥 by equating coefficients
4) Factorise the quadratic factor to obtain other factors( Quadratic formula maybe used)
EXAMPLE (Determine the 𝒙-intercept in the following equations)

a) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 6
b) 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 6𝑥 3 − 11𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 2
c) 𝑓(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 3 + 5𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 8
d) 𝑓 (𝑥 ) = 𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 + 2
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 15
METHODS OF SOLVING 𝒙- intercepts in cubic graph. 2 method are
chosen. 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑐𝑒 𝑢𝑠𝑒𝑑 ( 𝐾𝑒𝑙𝑣𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑚𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑑𝑦 𝑔𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑒 12)
METHOD 1 ( SOLVE BY INSPECTION )
1) Determine factor (number that will make equation =0)
2) Determine the coefficient of 𝑥 2 and the constant by inspection.
3) Determine the coefficient of 𝑥 by equating coefficients from 𝑥 2
4) Factorise the quadratic factor to obtain other factors( Quadratic formula maybe used)
EXAMPLE (step by step solving 𝒙- intercept)
Solve for 𝑥 if 𝑓(𝑥) = 0 in the following equation 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 6
1) Substitute any number that will make equation equals to 0 (𝑓(𝑎) = 0. Try & error method
𝑓(1) = (1)3 − 4(1)2 + (1) + 6 = 4 (𝑥 − 1 is not a factor)
𝑓(−1) = (−1)3 − 4(−1)2 + (−1) + 6 = 0 ∴ (𝑥 + 1 is a factor f(−1) = 0 )
2) Determine the coefficient of 𝒙𝟐 and the constant by inspection.
Factors of cubic equation will be factorised into linear and quadratic. Since we already
have linear from factor above, now the equation will be . (𝒙 + 𝟏)(𝒂𝒙𝟐 + 𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄) = 𝟎

Now for values of 𝑎𝑥 2 and c. 𝑎𝑥 2 = 1st term in cubic equation ÷ 1st term in
factor = 𝑥 2 . Value of c = last term in cubic equation ÷ last term in factor = 6.
∴ (𝒙 + 𝟏)(𝒙𝟐 + 𝒃𝒙 + 𝟔) = 𝟎
3) Determine the coefficient of 𝒙 by equating coefficients from 𝒙𝟐
In the given equation the coefficient of 𝑥 2 is −4 and it is obtained by collecting like terms
after multiplication. Multiply 𝑥 from linear with 𝑏𝑥 in quadratic and also multiply 1
from linear with 𝑥 2 in quadratic. Then equate those answer to the value of 𝑥 2 in the given
cubic graph to solve for b. NB! If there is no 𝒙𝟐 in the equation equate it to 𝟎𝒙𝟐
∴ 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑥 2 = −4𝑥 2
𝑥 2 (𝑏 + 1) = −4𝑥 2 common factor 𝑥 2
𝑏 + 1 = −4 divided with 𝑥 2 both sides
∴ 𝑏 = −5
(𝒙 + 𝟏)(𝒙𝟐 − 𝟓𝒙 + 𝟔) = 𝟎
4) Factorise the quadratic factor to obtain other factors( Quadratic formula maybe used)
(𝒙 + 𝟏)(𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝒙 − 𝟑) = 𝟎
∴ 𝑥 = −1 𝑜𝑟 𝑥=2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥=3

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 16

METHOD 2 ( SOLVE BY SYNTHETIC DIVISION)
1) Determine factor (number that will make equation = 0)
2) Use synthetic division to obtain a quadratic factor of the cubic equation.
3) Factorise the quadratic factor to obtain other factors( Quadratic formula maybe used)
EXAMPLE (step by step solving 𝒙- intercept)
Solve for 𝑥 if 𝑓(𝑥) = 0 in the following equation 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 6
1) Substitute any number that will make equation equals to 0 (𝑓(𝑎) = 0. Try & error method
𝑓(1) = (1)3 − 4(1)2 + (1) + 6 = 4 (𝑥 − 1 is not a factor)
𝑓(−1) = (−1)3 − 4(−1)2 + (−1) + 6 = 0 ∴ (𝑥 + 1 is a factor f(−1) = 0 )
2) Use synthetic division to obtain a quadratic factor of the cubic equation.
• Draw a BACKWARDS L with the coefficients of 𝑥 and the constant of the cubic
equation in it. Bring down the coefficient of 𝑥 3 (of which is 1). Write down the
root or factor (−1) next to the BACKWARDS L as shown below.

• The ′𝟏′ is then multiplied by root/ factor (−1). The answer (1 × −1 = −1) is then
added to the coefficient of 𝑥 2 (which is −𝟒). The sum of the numbers (−1 − 4 = −𝟓)
is then written under the coefficient of 𝑥 2 as shown below:

• The process is then repeated, −5 is multiplied by the factor (−1) and the answer (5)
is then added to the coefficient of 𝑥 as shown below:

• The process is then repeated again as shown below. The last number is the
remainder and is always be equal to 0 as you are dividing 𝑓 by a factor.

• The numbers under the BACKWARDS L are the coefficients of quadratic factor
The 1st number (1) is the coefficient of 𝑥 2 , −𝟓 is the coefficient of 𝑥, and 6 is the
constant. (𝒙 + 𝟏)(𝟏𝒙𝟐 − 𝟓𝒙 + 𝟔) = 𝟎
3) Factorise the quadratic factor to obtain other factors( Quadratic formula maybe used)
(𝒙 + 𝟏)(𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝒙 − 𝟑) = 𝟎
∴ 𝑥 = −1 𝑜𝑟 𝑥=2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥=3

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 17

 EXAMPLES 2 AND 3 WITH SOLUTIONS USING BOTH METHODS
Solve for 𝑥 if 𝑓(𝑥) = 0 𝑓(𝑥) = 6𝑥 3 − 11𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 2
1) Substitute any number that will make equation equals to 0 (𝑓(𝑎) = 0. Try & error method
𝑓(1) = 6(1)3 − 11(1)2 − 3(1) + 2 = −6 (𝑥 − 1 is not a factor)
𝑓(−1) = 6(−1)3 − 11(−1)2 − 3(−1) + 2 = −12 (𝑥 + 1 is not a factor )
𝑓(2) = 6(2)3 − 11(2)2 − 3(2) + 2 = 0 ∴ (𝑥 − 2 is a factor f(2) = 0 )
SOLVE BY INSPECTION SOLVE BY SYNTHETIC DIVISION
6𝑥 3 − 11𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 2 = 0 6𝑥 3 − 11𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 2 = 0
(𝑥 − 2)(6𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 − 1)=0
∴ 𝑏𝑥 2 −12𝑥 2 = −11𝑥 2
𝑥 2 (𝑏 − 12) = −11𝑥 2
𝑏 − 12 = −11
∴𝑏=1
(𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝟔𝒙𝟐 + 𝒙 − 𝟏) = 𝟎 (𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝟔𝒙𝟐 + 𝟏𝒙 − 𝟏) = 𝟎
(𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝟑𝒙 − 𝟏)(𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏) = 𝟎
(𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝟑𝒙 − 𝟏)(𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏) = 𝟎 ∴𝑥=
1 −1
1 −1
2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = ∴𝑥=2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 =
3 2 3 2
Solve for 𝑥 if 𝑓(𝑥) = 0 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 + 2 Now , no coefficient for 𝑥 2

𝑓(2) = (2)3 − 5(2) + 2 = 0 ∴ (𝑥 − 2 is a factor f(2) = 0 )

𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 + 2 = 0
𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 + 2 = 0
2
(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 − 1)=0
∴ 𝑏𝑥 2 −2𝑥 2 = 0𝑥 2
𝑥 2 (𝑏 − 2) = 0𝑥 2
𝑏−2=0
∴𝑏=2
(𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒙 − 𝟏) = 𝟎 (𝒙 − 𝟐)(𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒙 − 𝟏) = 𝟎
for 𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒙 − 𝟏 = 𝟎 use quadratic formula for 𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒙 − 𝟏 = 𝟎 use quadratic formula
∴𝑥=2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −1 ± √2 ∴𝑥=2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −1 ± √2

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 18

ACTIVITY 1
Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 3 + 10𝑥 2 − 17𝑥 − 28
1.1 Calculate the coordinates of the intercepts of 𝑓 with the axes. (5)
1.2 Calculate the coordinates of the turning points of 𝑓. (5)
1.3 Sketch the graph of 𝑓 , clearly indicating the intercepts with the axes and the
turning points. (3)
1.4 Determine the values of 𝑘 for which −𝑥 3 + 10𝑥 2 − 17𝑥 = 25 + 𝑘 will have
One real root. (2)
[15]

ACTIVITY 2
2.1 Given: 𝑔(𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, 𝑎 ≠ 0, which has the following properties.
𝑓′(𝑥) > 0 if 𝑥 < −3 or 𝑥 > 3

𝑓′(𝑥) < 0 if −3 < 𝑥 < 3

𝑓 ′ (−3) = 𝑓 ′ (3) = 0
𝑓(0) > 0
Use the above information to draw a sketch of 𝑔. (4)

ACTIVITY 3
3.1 A cubic function 𝑓 has the following properties:
1
• 𝑓 ( ) = 𝑓(3) = 𝑓(−1) = 0
2
1
• 𝑓 ′ (2) = 𝑓′ (− ) = 0
3
1
• 𝑓 decreases for 𝑥 ∈ [− ; 2] only
3

Draw a possible sketch graph of 𝑓, clearly indicating the 𝑥-coordinates of the turning
points and ALL the 𝑥-intercepts.
[4]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 19

 C) INTERPRETE
1) LOCAL MAXIMUM ( 𝒇′(𝒙) or gradient change from positivity to negativity) or graph
or 𝒇(𝒙) increase on left of TP and decrease on the right side of TP
LOCAL MINIMUM ( 𝒇′(𝒙) or gradient change from negativity to positivity) or graph
or 𝒇(𝒙) decrease on left of TP and increase on the right side of TP
2) CONCAVITY
CONCAVE UP 𝑓′′(𝑥) > 0
CONCAVE DOWN 𝑓′′(𝑥) < 0
3) POINT OF INFLECTION
It is the point where graph changes concavity. If the cubic function has only one stationary
point(TP), this point will be a point of inflection that is also a stationary point
𝑓 ′′ (𝑥) = 0

EXAMPLES
Consider 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 − 3𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 5
a) Determine the stationary point(s) of 𝑓.
b) Determine the coordinates of the point of inflection of f.
c) Determine the values of 𝑥 is 𝑓(𝑥) increasing  NB: 𝑓′(𝑥) & concave up (𝑓′′(𝑥)).
4) NATURE OF ROOTS (values of k for which graph have ___Distinct roots)
5) DETERMINING THE EQUATION-WILL BE DONE IN ACTIVITIES.

D) EQUATION OF THE TANGENT/NORMAL

The gradient of the tangent to a curve at a point is the derivative at that point.
STEPS: Determine the derivative, and then substitute point. Use formula 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐
EXAMPLE
1) Determine the equation of the tangent to the curve 𝑦 = 3𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 2 at 𝑥 = −4
2) Find the equation of the tangent to 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 1 which is parallel to the line
𝑦 − 7𝑥 + 4 = 0

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 20

ACTIVITY 1
Sketched below is the graph of 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 − 12 and 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 + 𝑐
A and D are the 𝑥- intercepts of 𝑔. OB is 6 units. A and C are the turning points of 𝑔.

1.1 Write down the coordinates of A and D. (5)

1.2 Determine the coordinates of C. (5)
1.3 Write down the equation of 𝑓. (1)
1.4 Calculate the 𝑥- value of the point of inflection of 𝑔. (2)
1.5 Use the graph to determine the value(s) of 𝑡 for which 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑡 will have only
one real root. (2)
1.6 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is 𝑓(𝑥). 𝑔′(𝑥) < 0? (2)
[17]

ACTIVITY 2
A cubic graph 𝑓 is defined by the following properties:
• 𝑓(−2) = 𝑓(1) = 𝑓(6) = 0
• 𝑓(0) = 12
• 𝑎>0

2.1 By using the given information above, sketch a basic graph clearly indicating
the intercepts with the axes. (3)
2.2 Show that 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12. (4)
2.3 Calculate the coordinates of the turning points of 𝑓. (5)
2.4 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) < 0. (1)
2.5 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is decreasing. (2)
2.6 Calculate the value of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is concave up. (3)
[18]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 21
 E) INTERPRETE BY COMPARE 𝒇′(𝒙) AND 𝒇(𝒙)
You’ll be required to know how to equate coefficients to determine equation.
• 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒂𝒙𝟑 + 𝒃𝒙𝟐 + 𝒄𝒙 → Original cubic graph
e.g 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 6𝑥 2 + 9𝑥 (Cubic graph)
• 𝒇′(𝒙) = 𝟑𝒂𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄 → Derivative of cubic graph (Parabola)
e.g 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 9 (Parabola)
• 𝒇′′(𝒙) = 𝟔𝒂𝒙 + 𝟐𝒃 → Derivative of parabola (Straight line)
e.g 𝑓 ′′ (𝑥) = 6𝑥 − 12 (Straight line)

𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒂𝒙𝟑 + 𝒃𝒙𝟐 + 𝒄𝒙 → Original cubic graph

𝒇′(𝒙) = 𝟑𝒂𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄 𝒇′(𝒙) = 𝟑𝒂𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄

if 𝒂 > 𝟎 if 𝒂 < 𝟎

COMPARISON
ORIGINAL CUBIC GRAPH(𝒇(𝒙)) VS PARABOLA(𝒇′(𝒙))
a) If 𝒂 > 𝟎 a) 𝒂 > 𝟎
b) If 𝒂 < 𝟎 b) 𝒂 < 𝟎
c) 𝒙- values of turning points in cubic function c) 𝒙- intercepts of parabola
d) 𝒙- value of point of inflection (𝒇′′ (𝒙) = 𝟎) d) 𝒙- value of turning point
of parabola (𝒇′′ (𝒙) = 𝟎)

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 22

EXAMPLE 1
In the diagram, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓′(𝑥) is given where 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 represents

a cubic function.
a) Determine the equation of 𝑓′(𝑥).
b) Determine the equation of 𝑓(𝑥).
c) By referring to the diagram,
determine the values of 𝑥 for
which the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) has
it’s stationary points.

d) Determine the value of 𝑥-coordinate of the point of inflection of 𝑓(𝑥).

e) By referring to the diagram, determine the values of 𝑥 for which the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) is
increasing and decreasing.
f) Identify the local minimum and local maximum and give reasons for your answers.
EXAMPLE 2
The graph of 𝑝′ (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is sketched below. 𝑝′(𝑥) is the derivative graph of a cubic
function 𝑝(𝑥). Points A(−4 ; 0) and B(12; 0) are the 𝑥-intercepts of 𝑝′(𝑥).

a) Determine the 𝑥-coordinate of C, the turning point of 𝑝′(𝑥).

b) Determine the 𝑥-coordinate of the point of inflection of 𝑝(𝑥).
c) Explain why 𝑝 has a local maximum at 𝑥 = −4.
EXAMPLE 3 ( DBE PAST EXAM PAPER NOVEMBER 2010)

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 23

QUESTION 1 (FEB/MARCH 2010)
The graph below represents the functions 𝑓 and 𝑔 with 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 − 𝑐𝑥 − 2 and

𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 − 2. A and (−1 ; 0) are the 𝑥-intercepts of 𝑓. The graphs of 𝑓 and 𝑔 intersect at

A and C.

1.1 Determine the coordinates of A. (1)

1.2 Show by calculation that 𝑎 = 1 and 𝑐 = −3. (4)

1.3 Determine the coordinates of B, a turning point of 𝑓. (3)

1.4 Show that the line BC is parallel to the 𝑥-axis. (7)

1.5 Find the 𝑥-coordinate of the point of inflection of 𝑓. (2)

1.6 Write down the values of 𝑘 for which 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 will have only ONE root. (3)

1.7 Write down the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓′(𝑥) < 0. (2)

[22]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 24

QUESTION 2 (NOVEMBER 2010)
The graphs of 𝑦 = 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 and ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 4 are sketched below. The

graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔′ (𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is the derivative graph of a cubic function 𝑔.

The graphs of ℎ and 𝑔′ have a common 𝑦-intercept at E. C(−2 ; 0) and D(6 ; 0) are the

𝑥-intercepts of the graph of 𝑔′. A is the 𝑥-intercept of ℎ and B is the turning point of 𝑔′.

AB ∥ 𝑦-axis.

2.1 Write down the coordinates of E. (1)

2.2 Determine the equation of the graph of 𝑔′ in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 (4)

2.3 Write down the 𝑥-coordinates of the turning points of 𝑔. (2)

2.4 Write down the 𝑥-coordinate of the point of inflection of the graph of 𝑔. (2)

2.5 Explain why 𝑔 has a local maximum at 𝑥 = −2 . (3)

[12]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 25

QUESTION 3 (NOVEMBER 2011)
The function 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥 3 + 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is sketched below. The turning points of

the graph of 𝑓 are T(2 ; −9) and S(5 ; 18)

3.1 Show that 𝑎 = 21 , 𝑏 = − 60 and 𝑐 = 43. (7)

3.2 Determine an equation of the tangent to the graph of 𝑓 at 𝑥 = 1. (5)

3.3 Determine the 𝑥-value at which the graph of 𝑓 has a point of inflection. (2)
[14]

QUESTION 4 (NOVEMBER 2011)

The graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓′(𝑥), where 𝑓 is a cubic function, is sketched below.

Use the graph to answer the following questions:

4.1 For which values of 𝑥 is the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓′(𝑥) decreasing? (1)

4.2 At which value of 𝑥 does the graph of 𝑓 have a local minimum? Give reasons
for your answer. (3)
[4]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 26
QUESTION 5 (FEB/MARCH 2012)
The graphs of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 and 𝑔(𝑥) = 6𝑥 − 6 are sketched below.

A(−1 ; 0) and C(3 ; 0) are the 𝑥- intercepts of 𝑓. The graph of 𝑓 has turning points at A and B.

D(0 ; −6) is the 𝑦-intercept of 𝑓. E and D are points of intersection of the graphs of 𝑓 and 𝑔.

5.1 Show that 𝑎 = 2 ; 𝑏 = − 2 ; 𝑐 = − 10 and 𝑑 = − 6. (5)

5.2 Calculate the coordinates of the turning point B. (5)

5.3 ℎ(𝑥) is the vertical distance between 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑔(𝑥), that is ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) − 𝑔(𝑥)

Calculate 𝑥 such that ℎ(𝑥) is a maximum, where 𝑥 < 0. (5)

[15]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 27

QUESTION 6 (FEB/MARCH 2012)
The tangent to the curve of 𝑔(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 + 𝑝𝑥 2 + 𝑞𝑥 − 7 at 𝑥 = 1 has the equation

𝑦 = 5𝑥 − 8

6.1 Show that (1 ; – 3) is the point of contact of the tangent to the graph. (1)

6.2 Hence or otherwise, calculate the values of 𝑝 and 𝑞. (6)

[7]

QUESTION 7 (FEB/MARCH 2012)

A cubic function 𝑓 has the following properties:

1
• 𝑓 ( ) = 𝑓(3) = 𝑓(−1) = 0
2
1
• 𝑓 ′ (2) = 𝑓′ (− ) = 0
3
1
• 𝑓 decreases for 𝑥 ∈ [− ; 2] only
3

Draw a possible sketch graph of 𝑓, clearly indicating the 𝑥-coordinates of the turning

points and ALL the 𝑥-intercepts.

[4]

QUESTION 8 (FEB/MARCH 2011)

Given: 𝑔(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 6)(𝑥 − 3)(𝑥 + 2)

8.1 Calculate the 𝑦-intercept of 𝑔. (1)

8.2 Write down the 𝑥-intercepts of 𝑔. (2)

8.3 Determine the turning points of 𝑔. (6)

8.4 Sketch the graph of . (4)

8.5 For which values of 𝑥 is 𝑔(𝑥). 𝑔′ (𝑥) < 0? (3)

[16]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 28

QUESTION 9 (NOVEMBER 2012)
9.1 The graph of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 3 − 𝑥 2 + 16𝑥 + 16 is sketched below.

9.1.1 Calculate the 𝑥-coordinates of the turning points of 𝑓. (4)

9.1.2 Calculate the 𝑥-coordinate of the point at which 𝑓′(𝑥) is a

maximum. (3)

9.2 Consider the graph of 𝑔(𝑥) = −2𝑥 2 − 9𝑥 + 5.

9.2.1 Determine the equation of the tangent to the graph of 𝑔 at 𝑥 = –1. (4)

9.2.2 For which values of 𝑞 will the line 𝑦 = −5𝑥 + 𝑞 not intersect

the parabola? (3)

9.3 Given: ℎ(𝑥) = 4𝑥 3 + 5𝑥.

Explain if it is possible to draw a tangent to the graph of ℎ that has a negative

gradient. Show ALL your calculations. (3)

[17]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 29
QUESTION 10 (FEB/MARCH 2013)
Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 3 − 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 10.

10.1 Write down the coordinates of the 𝑦-intercept of 𝑓. (1)

10.2 Show that (2 ; 0) is the only 𝑥-intercept of 𝑓. (4)

10.3 Calculate the coordinates of the turning points of 𝑓. (6)

10.4 Sketch the graph of 𝑓. Show all intercepts with the axes and all turning points. (3)

[14]

QUESTION 11 (NOVEMBER 2013)

The function defined by 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 − 2 is sketched below. P(−1 ; −1)

and R are the turning points of 𝑓.

11.1 Show that 𝑎 = 1 and 𝑏 = −1. (6)

11.2 Hence, or otherwise, determine the 𝑥-coordinate of R. (3)

11.3 Write down the coordinates of a turning point of ℎ if ℎ is defined by

ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑓(𝑥) − 4. (2)

[11]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 30

QUESTION 12 (FEB/MARCH 2014)
The graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 3 + 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is sketched below. The 𝑥-intercepts are

indicated.

12.1 Calculate the values of 𝑎, b and 𝑐. (4)

12.2 Calculate the 𝑥-coordinates of A and B, the turning points of 𝑓. (5)

12.3 For which values of 𝑥 will 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) < 0? (3)

[12]

QUESTION 13 (NOVEMBER 2014)

Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9)

= 𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 18
13.1 Calculate the coordinates of the turning points of the graph of 𝑓. (6)

13.2 Sketch the graph of 𝑓, clearly indicating the intercepts with the axes and the

turning points. (4)

13.3 For which value(s) of 𝑥 will 𝑥. 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) < 0? (3)

[13]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 31
QUESTION 14 (FEB/MARCH 2015)
14.1 The sketch below shows the graph of ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 7𝑥 2 + 14𝑥 − 8. The

𝑥-coordinates of point A is 1. C is another 𝑥-intercept of ℎ.

14.1.1 Determine ℎ′ (𝑥). (1)

14.1.2 Determine the 𝑥-coordinate of the turning point B. (3)

14.1.3 Calculate the coordinates of C. (4)

14.1.4 The graph of ℎ is concave down for 𝑥 < 𝑘. Calculate the value

of 𝑘. (3)
[11]

QUESTION 15 (JUNE 2015)

15.1 Given: 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 4𝑥 2 + 8𝑥.

15.1.1 Determine 𝑔′ (−2). (3)

15.1.2 Determine the equation of the tangent to 𝑔 at 𝑥 = −2 in the form

𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐. (4)

15.1.3 Calculate the coordinates of point of inflection of 𝑔. (2)

15.1.4 Show that 𝑔 is increasing for all real value(s) of 𝑥. (3)

[12]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 32

QUESTION 16 (JUNE 2015)
16.1 The diagram below shows the graph of 𝑓′(𝑥), the derivative of

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑. The graph of 𝑓′(𝑥) intersects the 𝑥-axis at 1 and 5.

A(4 ; −9) is a point on the graph of 𝑓′(𝑥).

16.1.1 Write down the gradient of the tangent to 𝑓 at 𝑥 = 4. (1)

16.1.2 Determine the 𝑥-coordinates of the turning points of 𝑓. (2)

16.1.3 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is 𝑓 strictly decreasing? (2)

[5]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 33

QUESTION 17 (SEPTEMBER 2015)
4
17.1 Determine the points on the curve 𝑦 = where the gradient of the tangent
𝑥

to the curve is −1. (5)

17.2 The graph of a cubic function with equation 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐.

is drawn.

• 𝑓(1) = 𝑓(4) = 0
• 𝑓 has a local maximum at B and a local minimum at 𝑥 = 4

17.2.1 Show that 𝑎 = −9, 𝑏 = 24 and 𝑐 = −16. (2)

17.2.2 Calculate the coordinates of B. (4)
17.2.3 Determine the value(s) of 𝑘 for which 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 has negative
roots only. (2)
17.2.4 Determine the value(s) of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is concave up. (2)
[15]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 34
QUESTION 18 (NOVEMBER 2015)
Given: ℎ(𝑥) = −𝑥 3 + 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 and 𝑔(𝑥) = −12𝑥. P and Q(2 ; 10) are the turning

points of ℎ. The graph of ℎ passes through the origin.

3
18.1 Show that 𝑎 = and 𝑏 = 6. (5)
2

18.2 Calculate the average gradient of ℎ between P and Q, if it is given that

𝑥 = −1 at P. (4)

1
18.3 Show that the concavity of ℎ changes at 𝑥 = . (3)
2

18.4 Explain the significance of the change in QUESTION 18.3 with respect to ℎ. (1)

18.5 Determine the value of 𝑥, given 𝑥 < 0, at which the tangent to ℎ

is parallel to 𝑔. (4)

[17]

QUESTION 19 (FEB/MARCH 2016)

19.1 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 − 23𝑥 2 + 80𝑥 − 84.

19.1.1 Prove that (𝑥 − 2) is a factor of 𝑓. (2)

19.1.2 Hence, or otherwise, factorise 𝑓(𝑥) fully. (2)

19.1.3 Determine the 𝑥-coordinates of the turning points of 𝑓. (4)

19.1.4 Sketch the graph of 𝑓, clearly labeling ALL turning points and
intercepts with the axes. (3)

19.1.5 Determine the coordinates of the 𝑦-intercept of the tangent to 𝑓

that has a slope of 40 and touches 𝑓 at a point where the

𝑥-coordinate is an integer. (6)

` [17]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 35

QUESTION 20 (JUNE 2016)

20.1 Given: 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12.

20.1.1 Determine 𝑔(2). (2)

20.1.2 Solve 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12 = 0. (3)

20.1.3 Calculate the coordinates of the stationary points of 𝑔. (4)

20.1.4 Sketch 𝑔 indicating the intercepts and the stationary points. (4)

20.1.5 For which value(s) of 𝑘 will 𝑥 3 − 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12 = 𝑘 have

three unequal roots. (2)

[15]

QUESTION 21 (NOVEMBER 2016)

For a certain function 𝑓, the first derivative is given as 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 + 8𝑥 − 3

21.1 Calculate the 𝑥-coordinates of the stationary points of 𝑓. (3)

21.2 For which values of 𝑥 is 𝑓 concave down? (3)

21.3 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is strictly increasing. (2)

21.4 If it is further given that 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 and 𝑓(0) = −18,

determine the equation of 𝑓. (5)

[13]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 36

QUESTION 22 (SEPTEMBER 2016)
22.1 Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 8

22.1.1 Calculate 𝑓(−3). (1)

22.1.2 Calculate 𝑓 ′ (−3). (1)

22.1.3 Determine the equation of the tangent to 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 8

at 𝑥 = −3. (2)

22.2 The graph of a cubic function with equation 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − 3𝑥 − 2 and

𝑔(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 2 is drawn. A and B are the turning points of 𝑓. P is a point

on 𝑔 and Q is a point on 𝑓 such that PQ is perpendicular to the 𝑥-axis.

22.2.1 Calculate the coordinates of A and B. (4)

22.2.2 If PQ is perpendicular to the 𝑥-axis, calculate the maximum length

of PQ. (4)

22.2.3 Determine the values of 𝑘 for which 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 has only two real
roots. (2)

22.2.4 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is concave up. (3)

[17]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 37

QUESTION 23 (FEB/MARCH 2017)
Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 2 + 4𝑥.

23.1 Calculate the coordinates of the turning points of the graph of 𝑓. (5)

23.2 Prove that the equation 2𝑥 3 − 5𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 = 0 has only one real root. (3)

23.3 Sketch the graph of 𝑓, clearly indicating the intercepts with the axes and the
turning points. (3)

23.4 For which values of 𝑥 will the graph of 𝑓 be concave up? (3)
[14]

QUESTION 24 (FEB/MARCH 2018)

The sketch below represents the curve of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 . The solutions

of the equation 𝑓(𝑥) = 0 are −2 ; 1 and 4.

24.1 Calculate the values of 𝑏, 𝑐 and 𝑑. (4)

24.2 Calculate the 𝑥-coordinate of B, the maximum turning point of 𝑓. (4)

24.3 Determine an equation for the tangent to the graph of 𝑓 at 𝑥 = −1. (4)

24.4 Sketch the graph of 𝑓′′(𝑥). Clearly indicate the 𝑥- and 𝑦- intercepts on sketch. (3)

24.5 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is 𝑓(𝑥) concave upwards? (2)

[17]

QUESTION 25 (FEB/MARCH 2018)

Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = −3𝑥 3 + 𝑥.
8
Calculate the value of 𝑞 for which 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑞 will have a maximum value of . [6]
9

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 38

QUESTION 26 (MARCH 2017)
4
26.1 Determine the points on the curve 𝑦 = where the gradient of the tangent
𝑥

to the curve is −1. (5)

26.2 The graph of a cubic function with equation 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐.

is drawn.

• 𝑓(1) = 𝑓(4) = 0
• 𝑓 has a local maximum at B and a local minimum at 𝑥 = 4

26.2.1 Show that 𝑎 = −9, 𝑏 = 24 and 𝑐 = −16. (4)

26.2.2 Calculate the coordinates of B. (5)
26.2.3 Determine the value(s) of 𝑘 for which 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 has negative
roots only. (2)
26.2.4 Determine the value(s) of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is concave up. (3)
[19]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 39

QUESTION 27 (JUNE 2017)
27.1 Given 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, 𝑎 ≠ 0, which has the following properties.

𝑓′(𝑥) > 0 if 𝑥 < −3 or 𝑥 > 3

𝑓′(𝑥) < 0 if −3 < 𝑥 < 3

𝑓 ′ (−3) = 𝑓 ′ (3) = 0
𝑓(0) > 0
Use the above information to draw a sketch of 𝑔. (4)

27.2 The graph of a cubic function with equation 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 3 + 𝑚𝑥 2 + 𝑛𝑥 + 26

has turning points D(2 ; 54) and E. 𝑓 intersects the 𝑥-axis at A, B and C and the

𝑦-axis at F.

27.2.1 Write down the coordinates of F. (1)

27.2.2 Show that 𝑚 = −3 and 𝑛 = 24. (6)

27.2.3 Determine the coordinates of E. (4)

27.2.4 Calculate the point of inflection of the graph of 𝑓. (3)

27.2.5 Determine the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is concave up. (2)
[20]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 40
QUESTION 28 (JUNE 2018)
𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 3 + 3𝑥 2 + 9𝑥 − 27 = −(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 3)2 is the equation of a cubic
function.

28.1 Write down the intercepts of 𝑓. (3)

28.2 Calculate the coordinates of the stationary points of 𝑓. (5)

28.3 Sketch the graph of 𝑓 on a system of axes. Clearly indicate the coordinates of
the stationary points and the intercepts with the axes. (4)

28.4 Determine the value(s) of 𝑥 for which the graph is concave down. (2)

28.5 Determine the equation of the tangent to the graph of 𝑓 at 𝑥 = 0. (3)

28.6 If 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 has 3 unequal real roots, determine the value(s) of 𝑘. (3)

28.7 Write down the equation of 𝑡 if 𝑓 is shifted 3 units horizontally to the left. (2)
[22]

QUESTION 29 (JUNE 2019)

Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥 − 3) is a cubic function.

29.1 Write down the 𝑥-intercepts and the 𝑦-intercepts of 𝑓. (3)

29.2 Determine the local maximum and minimum turning points of 𝑓. (4)

29.3 Sketch 𝑓 showing the coordinates of the turning points and the intercepts

with the axes. (4)

29.4 If 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 has one root equal to 0, write down the value of 𝑘. (2)

29.5 Given 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥 − 4), write down the coordinates of the new maximum point. (2)

29.6 Write down the values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 is concave up. (2)

1
29.7 Determine the equation of 𝑔(𝑥) if 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑓 (𝑥 + ). (2)
2

[19]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 41

QUESTION 30 (SEPTEMBER 2018)
3
ℎ(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 3 − 𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 is sketched below. A and B are the turning
2
points of ℎ at 𝑥 = −2 and 𝑥 = 3 respectively. C is the 𝑦-intercept of ℎ. D is the point (4;0)

30.1 Show that 𝑐 = −18 and 𝑑 = 32. (5)

30.2 Calculate the coordinates of A. (2)

30.3 Determine the 𝑥-value of the point of inflection. (2)

30.4 Write down the interval for which ℎ is concave up. (1)

30.5 If 𝑔(𝑥) = ℎ(−𝑥), write down the coordinates of the turning point that is the
image A. (2)

30.6 Determine the values of 𝑘 for which ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑘 has 2 unequal negative real roots
and one positive real root. (2)
[14]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 42

QUESTION 31 (NOVEMBER 2018)
31.1 The graph of 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 is sketched below. The graph of 𝑔

intersects the 𝑥-axis at (−5 ; 0) and at P, and the 𝑦-axis at (0 ; 20). P and R are

turning points of 𝑔.

31.1.1 Show that 𝑏 = 1, 𝑐 = −16 and 𝑑 = 20. (4)

31.1.2 Calculate the coordinates of P and R. (5)
31.1.3 Is the graph concave up or concave down at (0 ; 20)?
Show ALL your calculations. (3)

31.2 If 𝑔 is a cubic function with:

• 𝑔(3) = 𝑔′ (3) = 0
• 𝑔(0) = 27
• 𝑔′′(𝑥) > 0 when 𝑥 < 3 and 𝑔′′(𝑥) < 0 when 𝑥 > 3

Draw a sketch graph of 𝑔 indicating ALL relevant points. (3)

[15]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 43

QUESTION 32 (SEPTEMBER 2019)
In the diagram, the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 3 + 5𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 − 12 is drawn. A and B are the

turning points and C the 𝑦-intercept of 𝑓. 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 is a tangent to the graph of 𝑓 at C.

D is the intersection of 𝑓 and 𝑔.

32.1 Calculate the:

32.1.1 Coordinates of the 𝑥-intercepts of 𝑓. (6)

32.1.2 Coordinates of B. (4)

32.1.3 𝑥-coordinates of the point of inflection of 𝑓. (2)

32.2 Determine the:

32.2.1 Equation of the fuction 𝑔.

(2)

32.2.2 Values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 ′ (𝑥). 𝑔′(𝑥) > 0. (3)

[17]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 44

QUESTION 33 (NOVEMBER 2019)
Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 3

33.1 Solve 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓′(𝑥) (3)

33.2 The graphs 𝑓 , 𝑓 ′ and 𝑓′′ all pass through the point (0 ; 0)

33.2.1 For which of the graphs will (0 ; 0) be a stationary point? (1)

33.2.2 Explain the difference, if any, in the stationary points referred

to in QUESTION 33.2.1 (2)

33.3 Determine the vertical distance between the graphs of 𝑓′ and 𝑓′′ at 𝑥 = 1. (3)

33.4 For which value(s) of 𝑥 is 𝑓(𝑥) − 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) < 0? (4)

[13]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 45

 DIFFERENTIAL CALCULUS

PART 3
(OPTIMISATION & RATE OF
CHANGE)

GRADE 12
PAST EXAM PAPERS
EMAILBY
ADDRESS: melulekishabalala@gmail.com
MR M. SHABALALA CELLPHONE NUMBER: 0733318802 Page 46
@NOMBUSO
 GUIDE TO MAXIMISE/MINIMISE
AND RATE OF CHANGE
1. MAXIMISE/MINIMISE
• You might be given statement to formulate your own equation. Even if
there are two variables
• Determine 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑓′(𝑥)
• For MAXIMUM or MINIMUM it is where by 𝑓 ′ (𝑥) = 0.
• Answer the question

LOOK OUT FOR BONUS MARKS – WILL BE GIVEN EQUATION TO

MAXIMISE………JUST DERIVE (𝒇′(𝒙)) → 𝑓′(𝑥)= 0 AND answer.

2. RATE OF CHANGE
IMPORTANT HINTS OR APPROACH
• RATE → is 𝒇′(𝒙)

• At Rest / Stationary / Initial / At first / Stop

→ 𝒕 = 𝟎 sec
Consider distance: ℎ(𝑡) = 𝑎𝑡 3 + 𝑏𝑡 2 + 𝑐𝑡 + 𝑑 (m)
✓ Velocity(V) = 𝒉′(𝒕) i.e rate of change in distance
✓ Acceleration = 𝒗′(𝒕)/ 𝒉′′(𝒕) rate of change in velocity
☺☺ DVA→ D (𝑓(𝑥)) → V (𝑓′(𝑥)) → A (𝑓′′(𝑥))
• Maximum/ Minimum/ Fixed/ Largest
✓ 𝑓 ′ (𝑥 ) = 0
✓ Solve for 𝑥
✓ Substitute back to the original equation
• RATE at MAXIMUM/ MINIMUM
𝒇′(𝒙) → 𝒇′′ (𝒙) = 𝟎
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 47
QUESTION 1 (FEB/MARCH 2010)
A wire, 4 metres long, is cut into two pieces. One is bent into the shape of a square and the
other into the shape of a circle.

1.1 If the length of wire used to make the circle is 𝑥 metres, write in terms of 𝑥 the
length of the sides of the square in metres. (1)
1.2 Show that the sum of the areas of the circle and the square is given by
1 1 𝑥
𝑓(𝑥) = (
16
+
4𝜋
) 𝑥 2 − 2 + 1 square metres. (4)

1.3 How should the wire be cut so that the sum of the areas of the circle and the
square is a minimum? (3)
[8]

QUESTION 2 (NOVEMBER 2010)

A satellite is to be constructed in the shape of a cylinder with a hemisphere at each end. The
radius of the cylinder is 𝑟 metres and its height is h metres (see diagram below). The outer
surface area of the satellite is to be coated with heat-resistant material which is very expensive.
𝜋
The volume of the satellite has to be cubic metres.
6

1 4𝑟
2.1 Show that ℎ = − . (3)
6𝑟 2 3

2.2 Hence, show that the outer surface area of the satellite can be given as

4𝜋𝑟 2 𝜋
𝑠= + . (3)
3 3𝑟
2.3 Calculate the minimum outer surface area of the satellite. (6)
[12]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 48

QUESTION 3 (NOVEMBER 2012)
A particle moves along a straight line. The distance, 𝑠, (in metres) of the particle from a

fixed point on the line at time 𝑡 seconds (𝑡 ≥ 0) is given by 𝑠(𝑡) = 2𝑡 2 − 18𝑡 + 45.

3.1 Calculate the particle's initial velocity. (Velocity is the rate of change of distance.) (3)

3.2 Determine the rate at which the velocity of the particle is changing at t seconds. (1)

3.3 After how many seconds will the particle be closest to the fixed point? (2)

[6]

QUESTION 4 (FEB/MARCH 2013)

A rectangular box is constructed in such a way that the length (𝑙) of the base is three times as

long as its width. The material used to construct the top and the bottom of the box costs R100 per

square metre. The material used to construct the sides of the box costs R50 per square metre.

The box must have a volume of 9 𝑚3 . Let the width of the box be 𝑥 metres.

4.1 Determine an expression for the height (ℎ) of the box in terms of 𝑥. (3)

4.2 Show that the cost to construct the box can be expressed as

1200
𝐶= + 600𝑥 2 . (3)
𝑥

4.3 Calculate the width of the box (that is the value of 𝑥) if the cost is to be a

minimum. (4)

[10]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 49

QUESTION 5 (NOVEMBER 2013)

An industrial process requires water to flow through its system as part of the cooling cycle.

Water flows continuously through the system for a certain period of time.

The relationship between the time(𝑡) from when the water starts flowing and the rate(𝑟)

at which the water is flowing through the system is given by the equation:

𝑟 = −0,2𝑡 2 + 10𝑡 where 𝑡 is measured in seconds.

4.1 After how long will the water be flowing at the maximum rate? (3)

4.2 After how many seconds does the water stop flowing. (3)

[6]

QUESTION 6 (FEB/MARCH 2014)

A small business currently sells 40 watches per year. Each of the watches is sold at R144.

For each yearly price increase of R4 per watch, there is a drop in sales of one watch per

year.

6.1 How many watches are sold 𝑥 years from now? (1)

6.2 Determine the annual income from the sale of watches in terms of 𝑥. (3)

6.3 In what year and at what price should the watches be sold in order for the

business to obtain a maximum income from the sale of watches? (4)

[8]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 50

QUESTION 7 (NOVEMBER 2014)

A box is made from a rectangular pieces of cardboard, 100 cm by 40 cm, by cutting out the

shaded areas and folding along the dotted lines as shown in the diagram above.

7.1 Express the length 𝑙 in terms of the height ℎ. (1)

7.2 Hence, prove that the volume of the box is given by 𝑉 = ℎ(50 − ℎ)(40 − 2ℎ) (3)

7.3 For which value of ℎ will the volume of the box be a maximum? (5)

[9]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 51

QUESTION 8 (FEB/MARCH 2015)
A necklace is made by using 10 wooden spheres and 10 wooden cylinders. The radii, 𝑟, of

the sphere and the cylinders are exactly the same. The height of each cylinder is ℎ. The
wooden spheres and cylinders are to be painted. (ignore the holes in the spheres and cylinders.)

8.1 If the volume of a cylinder is 6 cm3 , write ℎ in terms of 𝑟. (1)

8.2 Show that the total surface area (S) of all the painted surfaces of the necklace
120
is equal to 𝑆 = 60𝜋𝑟 2 + (4)
𝑟

8.3 Determine the value of 𝑟 so that the least amount of paint will be used. (4)
[9]

QUESTION 9 (SEPTEMBER 2015)

A rectangular box has a length of 5𝑥 units, breadth of (9 − 2𝑥) units and its height of 𝑥 units

9.1 Show that the volume(V) of the box is given by 𝑉 = 45𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 3 . (2)

9.2 Determine the value of 𝑥 for which the box will have a maximum volume. (5)

[7]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 52
QUESTION 10 (JUNE 2015)
10.1 A solid square right prism is made of 8 m3 melted metal. The length of the sides of the

base are 𝑥 metres and the height is ℎ metres. The block will be coated with one layer of
paint.

10.1.1 Show that the surface area of the block is given by

32
𝐴 = 2𝑥 2 + (4)
𝑥

10.1.2 Calculate the dimensions of the block that will ensure that a
minimum quantity of paint will be used. (6)

10.2 A water tank in the shape of a right circular cone has a height of ℎ cm. The top

rim of the tank is a circle with radius of 𝑟 cm. The ratio of the height to the radius
is 5 : 2. Water is being pumped into the tank at a constant rate. Determine the rate
of change of the volume of water flowing into the tank when the depth is 5 cm. (6)

[16]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 53

QUESTION 11 (NOVEMBER 2015)
A rain gauge is in the shape of a cone. Water flows into the gauge. The height of the water

is ℎ cm when the radius is 𝑟 cm. The angle between the cone edge and the radius is 60°, as
shown in the diagram below.

11.1 Determine 𝑟 in terms of ℎ. Leave your answer in surd form. (2)

11.2 Determine the derivative of the volume of water with respect to ℎ where ℎ is

equal to 9 cm. (5)

[7]

QUESTION 12 (FEB/MARCH 2016)

A soft drink can has a volume of 340 cm3 , a height

of ℎ cm and a radius of 𝑟 cm.

12.1 Express ℎ in terms of 𝑟. (2)

12.2 Show that the surface area of the can is given by 𝐴(𝑟) = 2𝜋𝑟 2 + 680𝑟 −1 . (2)
12.3 Determine the radius of the can that will ensure that the surface area is a
minimum. (4)
[8]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 54
QUESTION 13 (JUNE 2016)
A water tank is in the shape of a cylindrical prism has a volume of 330 ml, height of ℎ

cm and radius 𝑟 cm.

330
13.1 Show that height of the cylinder is given by ℎ = . (2)
𝜋𝑟 2

13.2 Show that the Surface Area of the cylinder(A) is given by

660
𝐴 = 2𝜋𝑟 2 + (2)
𝑟

13.3 Calculate the value of the height of the prism if its volume at maximum. (5)
[9]

QUESTION 14 (JUNE 2016)

The height(ℎ) (in metres) of a golf ball 𝑡 seconds after it is been hit into the air is

given by ℎ(𝑡) = 20𝑡 − 5𝑡 2 . Determine the following:

14.1 The average vertical velocity of the ball during the first two seconds. (2)
14.2 The vertical velocity of the ball after 1,5 seconds. (3)
14.3 The time taken for the vertical velocity to be zero. (2)
14.4 The vertical velocity with which the ball hits the ground. (5)
[12]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 55
QUESTION 15 (SEPTEMBER 2016)

A car speeds along a 1 kilometre track in 25 seconds. Its distance (in metres) from the start

after t seconds is given by 𝑆(𝑡) = 𝑡 2 + 15𝑡.

15.1 Write down an expression for the speed (the rate of change of distance with

respect to time)of the car after 𝑡 seconds. (1)

15.2 Determine the speed of the car when it crosses the finish line. (1)

15.3 Write down an expression for the acceleration (the rate of change of speed with

respect to time)of the car after t seconds. (2)

15.4 Hence, or otherwise, calculate the acceleration of the car after 5 seconds. (1)

15.5 Calculate the speed of the car when it is 250 metres down the track. (4)

[9]

QUESTION 16 (NOVEMBER 2016)

A number of molecules of a certain drug in the bloodstream 𝑡 hours after it has been

taken is represented by the equation 𝑀(𝑡) = −𝑡 3 + 3𝑡 2 + 72𝑡, 0 < 𝑡 < 10

16.1 Determine the number of molecules of the drug in the bloodstream 3 hours

after the drugs was taken. (2)

16.2 Determine the rate at which the number of molecules of the drug in the

bloodstream is changing at axactly 2 hours after the drug was taken. (3)

16.3 How many hours after taking the drug will the rate at which the number of

molecules of the drug in the bloodstream is changing, be a maximum? (3)

[8]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 56

QUESTION 17 (FEB/MARCH 2017)
A piece of wire 6 metres long is cut into two pieces. One piece, 𝑥 metres long, is bent to form
a square ABCD. The other piece is bent into a U-shape so that it forms a rectangle BEFC when
placed next to the square, as shown in the diagram below.

Calculate value of 𝑥 for which the sum of the areas enclosed by the wire will be a
Maximum. [7]

QUESTION 18 (MARCH 2017)

A rectangular box has a length of 5𝑥 units, breadth of (9 − 2𝑥) units and its height of 𝑥 units

18.1 Show that the volume(V) of the box is given by 𝑉 = 45𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 3 . (2)

18.2 Determine the value of 𝑥 for which the box will have a maximum volume. (5)

[7]

BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 57

QUESTION 19 (JUNE 2017)
A car has 4 litres of petrol in the tank. After driving 80 kilometres, the car has 2 litres of
petrol left. The graph below shows the car’s petrol consumption and distance travelled.

19.1 Determine the gradient of the line 𝑙. (2)

19.2 Explain the significance of the value of the gradient obtained. (4)
[6]

QUESTION 20 (NOVEMBER 2017)

An aerial view of a stretch of road is shown in the diagram below. The road can be

described by the function 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 2, 𝑥 ≥ 0 if the coordinate axes (dotted lines)

are chosen as shown in the diagram.

Benny sits at vantage point B(0 ; 30 and observes a car, P, travelling along the road.

Calculate the distance between Benny and the car, when the car is closest to Benny. [7]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 58
QUESTION 21 (SEPTEMBER 2018)
The depth of water (in metres) left in the dam, 𝑡 hours, after the sluice gate was opened

to allow the flow of water to drain from the dam is given by the equation

1 1
𝐷(𝑡) = 28 − 𝑡 2 − 𝑡3.
9 27

21.1 Calculate the average rate of change in the depth of the water after the first

2 hours. (4)

21.2 Determine the rate at which the level of the water is decreasing after 16 hours. (4)

[8]

QUESTION 22 (JUNE 2019)

A piece of wire 10 metres long is cut into two pieces. One piece is bent into a square
and the other is bent into the shape of a rectangle. The rectangle has the width the
same length as the square.

22.1 The length of the wire used to make the square is 𝑥 metres. Write down in

terms of 𝑥 the length of the side of the square. (1)

22.2 Show that the sum of the areas(S) of the square and the rectangle is given by
1 5
𝑆 = − 𝑥2 + 𝑥 (4)
8 4

22.3 Determine the value of 𝑥 for which the sum of the areas is a maximum. (3)
[8]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 59
QUESTION 23 (SEPTEMBER 2019)
In the diagram below, ∆ABC is an equilateral triangle with sides 𝑑 units long. P and S are
points on sides AB and AC respectively. Q and R are points on BC such that PQRS is a

rectangle. BQ = RC = 2𝑦 units.

23.1 Show that the area of the rectangle PQRS is given by 𝐴 = 2√3𝑦(𝑑 − 4𝑦). (4)

23.2 Determine the maximum area of the rectangle in terms of 𝑑. (6)

[10]

QUESTION 24 (NOVEMBER 2019)

After flying a short distance, an insect came to rest on a wall. Thereafter the insect started
crawling on the wall. The path that the insect crawled can be described by

ℎ(𝑡) = (𝑡 − 6)(−2𝑡 2 + 3𝑡 − 6), where ℎ is the height (in cm) above the floor and 𝑡
is the time(in minutes) since the insect started crawling.
24.1 At what height above the floor did the insect start to crawl? (1)
24.2 How many times did the insect reach the floor? (3)
24.3 Determine the maximum height that the insect reached above the floor. (4)
[8]
BY MR M. SHABALALA @NOMBUSO Page 60