SPS SPS FM 2020 October — Question 1 7 marks

Exam BoardSPS
ModuleSPS FM (SPS FM)
Year2020
SessionOctober
Marks7
TopicBinomial Theorem (positive integer n)
TypeSubstitution into binomial expansion
DifficultyModerate -0.8 Part (i) is a straightforward binomial expansion requiring only formula application and arithmetic. Part (ii) requires the insight to substitute x = 3y + y² and then identify the y³ term, which adds modest problem-solving beyond routine expansion, but this is still a standard Further Maths technique with clear methodology and limited steps.
Spec1.04a Binomial expansion: (a+b)^n for positive integer n

  1. Find the binomial expansion of \((2 + x)^5\), simplifying the terms. [4]
  2. Hence find the coefficient of \(y^3\) in the expansion of \((2 + 3y + y^2)^5\). [3]

\begin{enumerate}[label=(\roman*)]
\item Find the binomial expansion of $(2 + x)^5$, simplifying the terms. [4]

\item Hence find the coefficient of $y^3$ in the expansion of $(2 + 3y + y^2)^5$. [3]
\end{enumerate}

\hfill \mbox{\textit{SPS SPS FM 2020 Q1 [7]}}