| Exam Board | Edexcel |
|---|---|
| Module | FP2 (Further Pure Mathematics 2) |
| Marks | 7 |
| Paper | Download PDF ↗ |
| Topic | First order differential equations (integrating factor) |
| Type | Standard linear first order - variable coefficients |
| Difficulty | Standard +0.3 This is a standard integrating factor question requiring division by (x+1) to get standard form, finding μ = (x+1)², integrating 1/(x(x+1)²) using partial fractions, and simplifying. While it involves multiple techniques (integrating factor method, partial fractions), these are routine procedures for FP2 students with no novel insight required. The 7 marks reflect mechanical length rather than conceptual difficulty, making it slightly easier than average. |
| Spec | 4.10c Integrating factor: first order equations |
Find the general solution of the differential equation
$$(x + 1)\frac{dy}{dx} + 2y = \frac{1}{x}, \quad x > 0.$$
giving your answer in the form $y = f(x)$.
[7]
\hfill \mbox{\textit{Edexcel FP2 Q42 [7]}}