| Exam Board | Edexcel |
|---|---|
| Module | C2 (Core Mathematics 2) |
| Marks | 7 |
| Paper | Download PDF ↗ |
| Mark scheme | Download PDF ↗ |
| Topic | Binomial Theorem (positive integer n) |
| Type | Find constants from coefficient conditions on terms |
| Difficulty | Standard +0.8 This question requires students to apply binomial expansion coefficients, set up and solve a system of two equations involving both n and p, and handle the algebraic manipulation of p² in the third term. While the binomial theorem is standard C2 content, the simultaneous solving with the parameter p appearing squared adds non-routine algebraic complexity beyond typical textbook exercises. |
| Spec | 1.04a Binomial expansion: (a+b)^n for positive integer n |
The first three terms in the expansion, in ascending powers of $x$, of $(1 + px)^n$, are $1 - 18x + 36p^2x^2$. Given that $n$ is a positive integer, find the value of $n$ and the value of $p$. [7]
\hfill \mbox{\textit{Edexcel C2 Q3 [7]}}