Small Angle Approximation - Year 2 Core PhysicsAndMathsTutor.

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1. Given that θ is small and measured in radians, use the small angle approximations to show that

θ
4 sin + 3 cos2 θ » a + b θ + c θ 2
2

where a, b and c are integers to be found.

(3)
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Small Angle Approximation - Year 2 Core PhysicsAndMathsTutor.com
PhysicsAndMathsTutor.com

2. In this question you must show all stages of your working.

Solutions relying entirely on calculator technology are not acceptable.

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The curve C has equation y = f(x) where x ∈ 
Given that
1
• f ′(x) = 2x + cos x
2
• the curve has a stationary point with x coordinate α
• α is small
(a) use the small angle approximation for cos x to estimate the value of α to
3 decimal places.
(3)
The point P(0, 3) lies on C
(b) Find the equation of the tangent to the curve at P, giving your answer in the
form  y = mx + c, where m and c are constants to be found.

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(2)
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