OCR FP1 AS 2021 June — Question 3 10 marks

Exam BoardOCR
ModuleFP1 AS (Further Pure 1 AS)
Year2021
SessionJune
Marks10
TopicComplex Numbers Arithmetic
TypeMultiplication and powers of complex numbers
DifficultyModerate -0.3 This is a standard Further Maths FP1 complex numbers question with routine procedures: expanding a complex cube (straightforward algebra), substituting to verify a root (direct calculation), and factorizing using the conjugate root theorem. While it requires careful algebraic manipulation and understanding of complex conjugates, it follows a predictable template with no novel problem-solving required, making it slightly easier than an average A-level question overall.
Spec4.02e Arithmetic of complex numbers: add, subtract, multiply, divide4.02g Conjugate pairs: real coefficient polynomials4.02j Cubic/quartic equations: conjugate pairs and factor theorem

In this question you must show detailed reasoning.
  1. Express \((2 + 3i)^3\) in the form \(a + ib\). [3]
  2. Hence verify that \(2 + 3i\) is a root of the equation \(3z^3 - 8z^2 + 23z + 52 = 0\). [3]
  3. Express \(3z^3 - 8z^2 + 23z + 52\) as the product of a linear factor and a quadratic factor with real coefficients. [4]

In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

\begin{enumerate}[label=(\alph*)]
\item Express $(2 + 3i)^3$ in the form $a + ib$. [3]

\item Hence verify that $2 + 3i$ is a root of the equation $3z^3 - 8z^2 + 23z + 52 = 0$. [3]

\item Express $3z^3 - 8z^2 + 23z + 52$ as the product of a linear factor and a quadratic factor with real coefficients. [4]
\end{enumerate}

\hfill \mbox{\textit{OCR FP1 AS 2021 Q3 [10]}}