MF1 Course Notes 2024.april

Official (Closed) - Non Sensitive
Mathematics Fundamentals 1
(PFP)
April 2024 Semester
Course Notes
Name: _______________________
Tutorial Group: ________________
Course: ______________________
Table of Contents
Teaching and Assessment Plan
Chapter 1 Arithmetic and Algebra

Tutorial 1
Tutorial 1 Answers
Chapter 2 Quadratic Equations

Tutorial 2
Tutorial 2 Answers
Chapter 3 Exponents and Radicals

Tutorial 3
Tutorial 3 Answers
Chapter 4 Simultaneous Equations

Tutorial 4
Tutorial 4 Answers
Chapter 5 Matrices
Tutorial 5
Tutorial 5 Answers
Chapter 6 Linear Inequalities

Tutorial 6
Tutorial 6 Answers
Chapter 7 Mathematics for Daily Life

Tutorial 7
Tutorial 7 Answers
Chapter 8 Sets and Venn Diagrams

Tutorial 8
Tutorial 8 Answers
Past Year Common Test Papers with Answers
Formulae List
NGEE ANN POLYTECHNIC

SCHOOL OF INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT PLAN (APRIL 2024 SEMESTER)
Module Title : Mathematics Fundamentals I Level : PFP

Module Leader : Mr. Hui Kah Seng Cayden Tel : 6460 7782 Email : [email protected]
Wk Week
Session 1 Hrs Session 2 Hrs Remarks & Assessments
No. Starts on
1 15/04/24 Induction / Briefing 1 Chapter 1 3 Lesson starts on Week 1
Chapter 1 2 - Arithmetic and
- Arithmetic and Algebra
Algebra
2 22/04/24 Tutorial 1 2 Chapter 2 2
Chapter 2 1 - Quadratic Equations
- Quadratic Tutorial 2 1
Equations
3 29/04/24* Chapter 3 3 Chapter 3 1 *Labour Day (Wed)
- Exponents and - Exponents and
Radicals Radicals
Tutorial 3 1
Revision for Quiz 1 1
4 06/05/24 Revision for Quiz 1 1 Chapter 4 3 Quiz 1 (15%)
Quiz 1 1 - Simultaneous 60 Minutes
Equations Chapter 1 & 2
Assignment 1 Briefing 1 Assignment 1 (10%)
5 13/05/24 Tutorial 4 2 Review Quiz 1 1
Assignment 1 Discussion 1 Chapter 5 2
- Matrices
6 20/05/24* Chapter 5 3 Tutorial 5 2 *Vesak Day (Wed)
- Matrices Assignment 1 Discussion 1 Assignment 1 (10%)
Due in Session 2
7 27/05/24 Revision for 3 Revision for 3
Common Test Common Test
8 03/06/24 Common Test

(20%, Chapter 1 to 5)
9 10/06/24 Break
10 17/06/24* Break
11 24/06/24 Review Common Test 1 Chapter 6 1 Assignment 2 (10%)

Chapter 6 2 - Linear Inequalities
- Linear Inequalities Tutorial 6 1
Assignment 2 Briefing 1
12 01/07/24 Chapter 7 2 Chapter 7 2
- Mathematics for - Mathematics for
Daily Life Daily Life
Assignment 2 Discussion 1 Assignment 2 Discussion 1
13 08/07/24 Chapter 7 2 Tutorial 7 2 Assignment 2 (10%)
- Mathematics for Assignment 2 Discussion 1 Due in Session 2
Daily Life
Assignment 2 Discussion 1
14 15/07/24 Chapter 8 (OAL) 3 Chapter 8 (OAL) 1 Revision for Quiz 2
- Sets and Venn - Sets and Venn
Diagrams Diagrams
Tutorial 8 2
15 22/07/24 Revision for Quiz 2 1 Revision for e-Quiz 3 2 Quiz 2 (15%)
Quiz 2 1 Assignment 3 1 60 Minutes
Assignment 3 Briefing 1 Chapter 6 & 7
Assignment 3 (5%)
16 29/07/24 Assignment 3 2 Assignment 3 2 e-Quiz 3 (10%)
e-Quiz 3 1 Review Quiz 2 1 45 Minutes
Chapter 8
Assignment 3 (5%)
Due in Session 2
17 05/08/24* Make-up Week
18 12/08/24 Study & Examination Week
19 19/08/24 Examination Week
*Public Holidays/Day Offs:

1 May (Wed) Labour Day
22 May (Wed) Vesak Day
17 Jun (Mon) Hari Raya Haji
9 Aug (Fri) National Day
Assessment Weightings:
Tutorial – 15% Assignments – 25% Quizzes – 40% Common Test – 20%

Chapter 1 Arithmetic and Algebra
1.1. Numbers and Operations
1.1.1. Types of Numbers in our current counting system
The invention of numbers allows for more accurate counting.
Counting is an important basic task. Without numbers and counting, many important
activities like trading would be severely affected.
With counting and numbers, people can learn to use units of exchange credits
(known as money) to carry out trading more effectively.
Let us recollect some facts about numbers.
From a typical number line such as the one below, we can see that there are various
kinds of numbers as follows:
1. Integers: Any number where the value does not involve a fractional or decimal
component including ‘0’ (Examples: −𝟓𝟓, −𝟐𝟐, 𝟎𝟎, 𝟏𝟏, 𝟐𝟐, 𝟑𝟑).
Those with a positive value are known as positive integers.
Examples: 𝟑𝟑, 𝟕𝟕, 𝟗𝟗, 𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟏, …
Those with a negative value are known as negative integers.
Examples: −𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟏, −𝟕𝟕, −𝟐𝟐, …
2. Whole numbers: The set of integers excluding the negative integers.

Examples: 𝟎𝟎, 𝟏𝟏, 𝟐𝟐, 𝟑𝟑, …
𝑎𝑎
3. Rational numbers: Numbers that can be expressed in the form where
𝑏𝑏
𝑎𝑎 and 𝑏𝑏 are integers and 𝑏𝑏 ≠ 0.
𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟏 𝟗𝟗 𝟓𝟓
Examples: − , , ,…
𝟑𝟑 𝟖𝟖 𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟏
Numbers that cannot be expressed in this form are irrational numbers.
√𝟑𝟑 𝝅𝝅
Examples: √𝟐𝟐 , , ,…
𝟐𝟐 𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟏
April 2024 Semester Chapter 1 | Page 1

Example 1
Identify the irrational number(s) from the list of following numbers.
3 49 22
5 , , 15 , 16 , , ,π
5 4 7
Solution
15 and π are irrational numbers.
Explanation:
𝑎𝑎
√15 is an irrational number as it cannot be expressed in the form where
𝑏𝑏
𝑎𝑎 and 𝑏𝑏 are integers.
4 𝑎𝑎
√16 = 4 = is a rational number as it can be expressed in the form where
1 𝑏𝑏
𝑎𝑎 = 4 and 𝑏𝑏 = 1.
√49 7 𝑎𝑎
= is a rational number as it can be expressed in the form where
√4 2 𝑏𝑏
𝑎𝑎 = 7 and 𝑏𝑏 = 2.
𝑎𝑎
𝜋𝜋 = 3.14159 … is an irrational number as it cannot be expressed in the form
𝑏𝑏
where 𝑎𝑎 and 𝑏𝑏 are integers.
Example 2
Identify the rational number(s) from the list of following numbers.
11 49 147 3π
, 2, , ,
9 3 3 7
Solution:
11 147
Answer: , 2 and are rational numbers.
9 3

1.1.2. Approximation
When using numbers to help us with managing tasks related to quantity, such as
taking stock, counting profit and loss, designing a product or planning some events,
operations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication and division are essential.
Another operation that is commonly used is approximation “≈”.
In approximation, values are expressed less precisely.
For example, $504,789 ≈ $500,000 (to the nearest $100,000).

(read as $504,789 is approximately $500,000)
It is often used when a situation requires an idea of how large or small the value is
rather than the actual value. Some examples include: size of investment, size of debt
or the distance between planets.
Significant Figures of a number refer to those digits that carry meaning that defines
the degree of precision required.
Using the same example of $504,789, the value is approximately $𝟓𝟓00,000 if only
one significant figure is required. It is $𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓, 000 if three significant figures are
required.
When a given value needs to be rounded to a specific number of significant figures,

the following set of rules applies:
Rule 1. All non-zero digits are significant.
Rule 2. All zeroes between non-zero digits are significant.
Rule 3. Zeroes in front of the first non-zero digit are not significant.
This is mostly applicable for values with decimal places.
Rule 4. The final significant figure is rounded up only if the digit to its right is ≥ 5 .

Example 3
Approximate the following values to 1, 2 or 4 significant figures.
a. 9051 b. 0.056789
c. 9050 d. 40506790
Solution:
1 sig. fig. 2 sig. fig. 4 sig. fig.

a. 9051 ≈ 9000 (1 s.f.) ≈ 9100 (2 s.f.) ≈ 9051 (4 s.f.)
b. 0.056789 ≈ 0.06 (1 s.f.) ≈ 0.057 (2 s.f.) ≈ 0.05679 (4 s.f.)
c. 9050 ≈ 9000 (1 s.f.) ≈ 9100 (2 s.f.) ≈ 9050 (4 s.f.)
d. 40506790 ≈ 40000000 (1 s.f.) ≈ 41000000 (2 s.f.) ≈ 40510000 (4 s.f.)
Example 4
Approximate the following values to 1, 3 or 4 significant figures.
a. 5019 b. 0.006772
c. 5010 d. 41572005
Solution:
1 sig. fig. 3 sig. fig. 4 sig. fig.

a. 5019
b. 0.006772
c. 5010
d. 41572005
Answers:
5000, 5020, 5019
0.007, 0.00677, 0.006772
5000, 5010, 5010
40000000, 41600000, 41570000

1.1.3 Standard Form and Prefixes

As seen in examples 3(𝑏𝑏), 3(𝑑𝑑), 4(𝑏𝑏) 𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎 4(𝑑𝑑), very small (e.g. 0.006772) or very
large (e.g. 41572005) quantities can be lengthy when expressed.
The use of scientific notation allows for these lengthy quantities to be expressed
more concisely.
In general, any quantity can be expressed in the form 𝐴𝐴 × 10𝑛𝑛 where 1 ≤ 𝐴𝐴 < 10
and 𝑛𝑛 is an integer. This is known as the standard form of a value.
Examples: 𝟐𝟐. 𝟗𝟗𝟗𝟗 × 𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟑𝟑 , 𝟏𝟏. 𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐 × 𝟏𝟏𝟏𝟏−𝟔𝟔
Table 1 below show a list of commonly used prefixes, the numerical values that they
represent and their symbols.
Prefix Value Symbol Name

pico 10−12 p Trillionth
nano 10−9 n Billionth
micro 10−6 𝜇𝜇 Millionth
milli 10−3 m Thousandth
kilo 103 k Thousand
Mega 106 M Million
Giga 109 G Billion
Tera 1012 T Trillion
Table 1
The table of prefixes is compiled based on the size of values commonly encountered
in measurement and application situations over the decades.
Example 5
a. Express 3173000 m in:
i. standard form
ii. km.
b. Express 0.003137 g in:

i. standard form
ii. mg.
Round to 3 sig. fig.
Solution:
a. i. 3173000 m = 3.173000 × 1000000 m = 3.17 × 106 m

ii. 3173000 m = 3173 × 1000 m = 3173 km
b. i. 0.003137 g = 3.137 × 0.001 g = 3.14 × 10−3 g

ii. 0.003137 g = 3.137 × 0.001 g = 3.14 × 10−3 g = 3.14 mg
Round to 3 sig. fig.

Example 6
The storage space remaining on a hard disk is stated as 12856789 bytes or

12856789 B. State the value in MB.
Solution:
Answer: 12.9 MB
Example 7
A strand of fibre optic wire is found to be 0.00000789 m. Express this value in

standard form and in 𝜇𝜇m.
Solution:
Answer: 7.89 𝜇𝜇m
When numerical values are expressed using the same prefix, operations on them
becomes much easier as the values can be added, subtracted or even divided
directly.
Example 8
The population of City A and City B in year 2020 are 22,500,000 and 35,000,000
respectively.
a. Express the population of both cities in terms of million.

b. Hence, or otherwise, find the difference in population between the two cities.
Solution:
a. City A has a population of 22,500,000 = 22.5 × 1,000,000 = 22.5 million

City B has a population of 35,000,000 = 35.0 × 1,000,000 = 35.0 million
b. Difference in population between the two cities

= 35.0 − 22.5
= 12.5 million

Example 9
Nation A has a debt of $2,800,000,000 while Nation B has a debt of $750,000,000.
a. Express both debts in terms of billion dollars.

b. Hence, or otherwise, express the debt of Nation B as a percentage of Nation A’s.
Solution:
Answers:
a. 2.80 billion, 0.750 billion
b. 26.8%

1.2 Factors and Factorization
In Mathematics, factorization is the process of rewriting an expression as a product

of two or more items.
Consider the number 12. It can be expressed as a product of 3 and 4. This means
that the numbers 3 and 4 are factors of 12. Alternatively, we can say that 12 is a
multiple of 3 or 4.
Similarly, the expression 𝑥𝑥 2 + 2𝑥𝑥 − 8 can be factorized into (𝑥𝑥 − 2)(𝑥𝑥 + 4),
where (𝑥𝑥 + 4) and (𝑥𝑥 − 2) are factors. In this case, we say that 𝑥𝑥 2 + 2𝑥𝑥 − 8 is a
multiple of (𝑥𝑥 − 2) or (𝑥𝑥 + 4).
multiple of
𝑥𝑥 2 + 2𝑥𝑥 − 8 = (𝑥𝑥 − 2)(𝑥𝑥 + 4)

factor of
Prime Factorization
Now let us consider the number of ways to factorize the number 12.
They are: 1 × 12, 2 × 6, 3 × 4, and 2 × 2 × 3.
In the expression 2 × 2 × 3, all the factors are prime numbers. This is known as
prime factorization. In prime factorization, we seek to express the number as a
product of its prime factors. We start by breaking it down into any factors, and
work our way towards prime factors.
Example 10
Express the following numbers as products of their prime factors:
a) 20
b) 42
c) 63
d) 72
Solution:
a) 20 = 4 × 5 = 2 × 2 × 5 = 22 × 5
b) 42 = 2 × 3 × 7
c) 63 = 9 × 7 = 3 × 3 × 7 = 32 × 7
d) 72 = 8 × 9 = 2 × 2 × 2 × 3 × 3 = 23 × 32

1.2.1 Highest Common Factor (HCF)
Consider the two expressions, 𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦𝑦𝑦 and 𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2 .
By breaking them down into individual components, we can identify the exact terms
that are common in these expressions.
𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦𝑦𝑦 = (𝑥𝑥)(𝑥𝑥)(𝑦𝑦)(𝑧𝑧) 𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2 = (𝑤𝑤)(𝑥𝑥)(𝑥𝑥)(𝑥𝑥)(𝑦𝑦)(𝑦𝑦)
= (𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦)(𝑧𝑧) = (𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦)(𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤)
As shown, 𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦 is the largest possible factor that is common to both

expressions.
We can verify that by observing the residual components (𝑧𝑧 versus 𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤). The
terms between them should all be unique. For instance, 𝑧𝑧 is not present in 𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤.
𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦 is known as the Highest Common Factor or HCF.
Example 11
Find the HCF of :
a. 12 and 42 ;
b. 𝑎𝑎3 𝑏𝑏 2 𝑐𝑐 and 𝑎𝑎4 𝑏𝑏𝑏𝑏 ;
c. 3(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥𝑥 − 2) and 6(𝑥𝑥 + 2)(𝑥𝑥 + 3) .
Solution:
a. 12 = 2 × 𝟐𝟐 × 𝟑𝟑
42 = 𝟐𝟐 × 𝟑𝟑 × 7
The HCF is 𝟐𝟐 × 𝟑𝟑 = 𝟔𝟔.
b. 𝑎𝑎3 𝑏𝑏 2 𝑐𝑐 = 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒃𝒃 × 𝑏𝑏 × 𝑐𝑐
𝑎𝑎4 𝑏𝑏𝑏𝑏 = 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒂𝒂 × 𝑎𝑎 × 𝒃𝒃 × 𝑑𝑑
The HCF is 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒂𝒂 × 𝒃𝒃 = 𝒂𝒂𝟑𝟑 𝒃𝒃.
c. 3(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥𝑥 − 2) = 𝟑𝟑 × (𝒙𝒙 + 𝟐𝟐) × (𝑥𝑥 + 2) × (𝑥𝑥 − 2)
6(𝑥𝑥 + 2)(𝑥𝑥 + 3) = 2 × 𝟑𝟑 × (𝒙𝒙 + 𝟐𝟐) × (𝑥𝑥 + 3)
The HCF is 𝟑𝟑 × (𝒙𝒙 + 𝟐𝟐) = 𝟑𝟑(𝒙𝒙 + 𝟐𝟐).

Example 12
Find the HCF of :
a. 15 and 35 ;
b. 𝑑𝑑2 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 and 𝑑𝑑 2 𝑒𝑒 3 𝑔𝑔 ;
c. 8𝑥𝑥 2 − 40𝑥𝑥 − 112 and 4(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥𝑥 + 3) .
Solution:
Answers:
a. 5
b. 𝑑𝑑2 𝑒𝑒
c. 4(𝑥𝑥 + 2)

1.2.2 Lowest Common Multiple (LCM)
Consider the two expressions, 𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦𝑦𝑦 and 𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2 again.
By multiplying these two expressions with suitable terms, we can achieve the same
final expression:
Multiply each
term by an 𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦𝑦𝑦 𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2
(𝑥𝑥 2𝑦𝑦𝑦𝑦)(𝒘𝒘𝒘𝒘𝒘𝒘) (𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2 )(𝒛𝒛) To arrive at
appropriate
𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2 𝑧𝑧 𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2 𝑧𝑧 the same final
expression
expression
In the last row, 𝑤𝑤𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2 𝑧𝑧 is the smallest possible multiple that is common to both
expressions. This is known as the Lowest Common Multiple (LCM).
Steps for finding the LCM
1. Factorize all the expressions using prime factorization.

2. For each prime factor, note the highest power to which it is raised in all the
expressions.
3. The LCM is found by multiplying all the prime factors raised to the highest power.
Example 13
Find the LCM of :
a. 12 and 42 ;
b. 𝑎𝑎3 𝑏𝑏 2 𝑐𝑐 and 𝑎𝑎4 𝑏𝑏𝑏𝑏 ;
c. 3(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥𝑥 − 2) and 6(𝑥𝑥 + 2)(𝑥𝑥 + 3) .
Solution:
a. 12 = 2 × 2 × 3 = 22 × 3 = 22 × 31 × 70
42 = 2 × 3 × 7 = 21 × 31 × 71
The LCM is 𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐 ∙ 𝟑𝟑𝟏𝟏 ∙ 𝟕𝟕𝟏𝟏 = 𝟖𝟖𝟖𝟖
b. 𝑎𝑎3 𝑏𝑏 2 𝑐𝑐 = 𝑎𝑎3 × 𝑏𝑏 2 × 𝑐𝑐 = 𝑎𝑎3 × 𝑏𝑏 2 × 𝑐𝑐 1 × 𝑑𝑑0
𝑎𝑎4 𝑏𝑏𝑏𝑏 = 𝑎𝑎4 × 𝑏𝑏 × 𝑑𝑑 = 𝑎𝑎4 × 𝑏𝑏1 × 𝑐𝑐 0 × 𝑑𝑑1
The LCM is 𝒂𝒂𝟒𝟒 ∙ 𝒃𝒃𝟐𝟐 ∙ 𝒄𝒄𝟏𝟏 ∙ 𝒅𝒅𝟏𝟏 = 𝒂𝒂𝟒𝟒 𝒃𝒃𝟐𝟐 𝒄𝒄𝒄𝒄
c. 3(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥𝑥 − 2) = 20 × 31 × (𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 × (𝑥𝑥 − 2)1 × (𝑥𝑥 + 3)0
6(𝑥𝑥 + 2)(𝑥𝑥 + 3) = 21 × 31 × (𝑥𝑥 + 2)1 × (𝑥𝑥 − 2)0 × (𝑥𝑥 + 3)1
The LCM is 𝟐𝟐𝟏𝟏 ∙ 𝟑𝟑𝟏𝟏 ∙ (𝒙𝒙 + 𝟐𝟐)𝟐𝟐 ∙ (𝒙𝒙 − 𝟐𝟐)𝟏𝟏 ∙ (𝒙𝒙 + 𝟑𝟑)𝟏𝟏 = 𝟔𝟔(𝒙𝒙 + 𝟐𝟐)𝟐𝟐 (𝒙𝒙 − 𝟐𝟐)(𝒙𝒙 + 𝟑𝟑)

Example 14
Find the LCM of :
a. 15 and 35 ;
b. 𝑑𝑑2 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 and 𝑑𝑑 2 𝑒𝑒 3 𝑔𝑔 ;
c. 8𝑥𝑥 2 − 40𝑥𝑥 − 112 and 4(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥𝑥 + 3) .
Solution:
Answers:
a. 105
b. 𝑑𝑑2 𝑒𝑒 3 𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓
c. 8(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑥𝑥 − 7)(𝑥𝑥 + 3)

1.2.3 Perfect Squares and Perfect Cube
An expression is a perfect square if it can be expressed as two identical factors.
For instance, 16 is a perfect square because it can be expressed as 4 × 4. Likewise,

𝑥𝑥 2 𝑦𝑦 6 can be expressed as (𝑥𝑥𝑦𝑦 3 )(𝑥𝑥𝑦𝑦 3 ), so it is also a perfect square.
Similarly, if an expression can be expressed as three identical factors, the

expression is a perfect cube.
Example 15
Find the smallest integer 𝑤𝑤 such that 198𝑤𝑤 is a
a. perfect square;
b. perfect cube.
Solution:
a. 198 = 2 × 3 × 3 × 11 = 21 × 32 × 111
In order for the expression to be a perfect square, we need two identical factors
(22 × 32 × 112 ) = (21 × 31 × 111 )(21 × 31 × 111 )
Therefore,
22 × 32 × 112 = (21 × 32 × 111 )(21 × 30 × 111 ) = (198)(22) = 198𝑤𝑤
The smallest integer 𝑤𝑤 is 22.
b. 198 = 2 × 3 × 3 × 11 = 21 × 32 × 111
In order for the expression to be a perfect cube, we need three identical factors
(23 × 33 × 113 ) = (21 × 31 × 111 )(21 × 31 × 111 )(21 × 31 × 111 )
Therefore,
23 × 33 × 113 = (21 × 32 × 111 )(22 × 31 × 112 ) = (198)(1452) = 198𝑤𝑤
The smallest integer 𝑤𝑤 is 1452.

Example 16
Find the smallest integer 𝑧𝑧 such that 18𝑧𝑧 is a
a. perfect square;
b. perfect cube.
Answers:
a. 2
b. 12
1.3 Algebraic manipulation
Apart from using numbers, letters are also often used to represent quantities.
For example, if there was a certain length of a product, say x cm and the length of
another product is 3 metres longer, we can express the length as x + 300 cm or
 x 
 + 3  m.
 100 
The use of letters in representing quantity and describing a situation is known as

algebraic manipulation.
In this section, the following algebraic manipulations will be covered:
• Simplification of algebraic expressions,

• Subject of a Formula and
• Solving an algebraic equation

1.3.1 Simplification of algebraic expressions.
For any algebraic expression, a rule of thumb is to expand any brackets and group
similar terms together. We can also factorise to simplify complicated expressions.
Example 17
a. Simplify 5 x − 5( x − 3)
b. Simplify ( 3 x − 2 )( 2 x + 7 ) − 17 x
c. Factorise ( 3 x − 2 )( 2 x + 7 ) − 34 x
d. Factorise ax + ab + bd + 2dx − dx
Solution:
a.
5 x − 5( x − 3)
= 5 x − 5 x + 15
= 15
b.
( 3x − 2 )( 2 x + 7 ) − 17 x
= 6 x 2 + 21x − 4 x − 14 − 17 x
= 6 x 2 − 14
c.
( 3x − 2 )( 2 x + 7 ) − 34 x
= 6 x 2 + 21x − 4 x − 14 − 34 x
= 6 x 2 − 17 x − 14
=( 2 x − 7 )( 3x + 2 )
d.
ax + ab + bd + 2dx − dx
= ax + ab + bd + dx
= a( x + b ) + d (b + x )
= a(x + b ) + d (x + b )
= (a + d )(x + b )

Example 18
a. Simplify 21x + 12 − 3 ( 5 x + 4 )
b. Factorise ( x + 2 )( 2 x − 5 ) + 2 x
c. Simplify ( x + 2 )( 2 x − 5 ) + x
d. Factorise 3ce − 9cx − e + 3 x
Solution:
Answers:
a. 6 x
b. (2 x + 5)( x − 2 )
c. 2 x 2 − 10
d. (3c − 1)(e − 3 x )

For algebraic expressions involving fractions, simplify and/or factorise the

numerator and denominator wherever possible, and repeat the process until you
arrive at a simplest expression.
Example 19
Simplify the following expressions.
5 x − 5 ( x − 3)
a.
6 x − 21
b.
(3x − 2)(2 x + 7 ) − 34 x
2 x 2 − 5x − 7
( x + 2 )( 2 x − 5) + 2 x
c.
3x − 6
Solution:
a. b.
5 x − 5(x − 3) (3x − 2)(2 x + 7 ) − 34 x
6 x − 21 2 x 2 − 5x − 7
5 x − 5 x + 15 6 x 2 + 21x − 4 x − 14 − 34 x
= =
6 x − 21 (2 x − 7 )(x + 1)
15 6 x 2 − 17 x − 14
= =
3(2 x − 7 ) (2 x − 7 )(x + 1)
=
5
=
(2 x − 7 )(3x + 2) = 3x + 2
2x − 7 (2 x − 7 )(x + 1) x + 1
c.
(x + 2)(2 x − 5) + 2 x
3x − 6
2
2 x − 5 x + 4 x − 10 + 2 x
=
3( x − 2 )
2 x 2 + x − 10
=
3( x − 2 )
=
(2 x + 5)(x − 2)
3(x − 2 )
2x + 5
=
3

Example 20
9n − 27
a. 2
3n − 3n − 18
xz + 2 yz
b.
2x + 4 y
20c 2 + 3cd − 2d 2
c.
5d 2 − 19cd − 4c 2
Solution:
Answers:
3
a.
n+2
z
b.
2
5c + 2d
c. −
c + 5d

Example 21
3tu + 21tu − 14u − 2u

Simplify .
3t 2 + 19t − 14
Solution:
8u
Answer:
t+7
In the factorization process, sometimes one may encounter expressions such as

follows:
A2 − B 2 A3 − B 3 A2 ± 2 AB + B 2
These expressions can be written as:
A2 − B 2 = ( A + B )( A − B ) [Difference of squares]
A3 + B 3 = ( A + B ) ( A2 − AB + B 2 ) [Sum of cubes]
A3 − B 3 = ( A − B ) ( A2 + AB + B 2 ) [Difference of cubes]
A2 + 2 AB + B 2 = ( A + B )
2
[Perfect square]
A2 − 2 AB + B 2 = ( A − B )
2
[Perfect square]
These are known as special factors.

Example 22
Recall:
Simplify the following expressions. a c a cd a + cd
i) + = + =
bd b bd bd bd
1 1
a. − 2 a c ac
x−2 x −4 ii) × =
b d bd
2x + 5 2x + 5
b. × 2
x − 7 4 x + 20 x + 25
( x + 1)
2
x +1
c. ÷
4y 2
2 xy
3( x − 2) 1
d. 2
−
x −9 x+3
Solution:
a. c.
1 1
− 2 ( x + 1)
2
x−2 x −4 x +1
2
÷
1 1 4y 2 xy
= −
x − 2 (x + 2 )(x − 2 ) ( x + 1)
2
2 xy
= ×
1(x + 2 ) − 1 4y 2
x +1
=
(x + 2)(x − 2) x ( x + 1)
=
x +1 2y
=
(x + 2)(x − 2)
b. d.
3( x − 2) 1
2
−
x −9 x+3
3( x − 2) 1
2x + 5 2x + 5 = −
× 2 ( x + 3)( x − 3) x + 3
x − 7 4 x + 20 x + 25
2x + 5 2x + 5 3 ( x − 2 ) − 1( x − 3)
= × =
x − 7 (2 x + 5) 2 ( x + 3)( x − 3)
1 3x − 6 − x + 3
= =
x−7 ( x + 3)( x − 3)
2x − 3
=
( x + 3)( x − 3)

Example 23
Recall:
Simplify the following expressions. a c a cd a + cd
i) + = + =
bd b bd bd bd
14 x 14
a. − a c ac
x − 25 x + 5
2
ii) × =
b d bd
3m 2 ( m + 2 )
2
b. ×
m+2 15m3
t −7 t 2 − 49
c. ÷
3m + 2 9m 2 + 12m + 4
Answers:
70
a.
( x + 5)( x − 5)
m+2
b.
5m
3m + 2
c.
t+7

Example 24
Recall:
i) A3 + B 3 = ( A + B ) ( A2 − AB + B 2 )
a.
x3 − 27 x − 3
÷ ii) A3 − B 3 = ( A − B ) ( A2 + AB + B 2 )
7 5
4d 2 4c 2 − 9 Note:
b. ×
16d ( 2x)
3
8c3 − 27 A3 8=
e.g. if = x3 then A = 2 x
2
4c − 4c + 1 2c − 1
( A) = ( 2 x ) =
2 2
c. ÷ ∴ A2= 4x2
c3 + 8 5c + 10
Answers:
5 ( x 2 + 3x + 9 )
a.
7
d (2c + 3)
b.
(
4 4c 2 + 6c + 9 )
5(2c − 1)
c.
c 2 − 2c + 4

1.4 Subject of a Formula
Another common form of algebraic manipulation is to express an unknown (or

variable) as a subject of the formula.
The subject of a given formula is the only variable on either side of an algebraic
expression.
y 5 x + 6 z , y is the subject of the formula.

For example, in the expression =
Example 25
9
Given that =
F C + 32 , express C in terms of F .
5
Solution:
9
F= C + 32
5
9
C = F − 32
5
5
C = (F − 32 )
9
Example 26
1
The volume of a cone, V (in cm3) is given as V = π r 2 h where r and h represent
3
the radius and height (both in cm) respectively.
a. Express h in terms of V and r .
b. Hence, or otherwise, find the value of h when V = 308 cm3 and r = 14 cm.
Solution:
Answers:
3V
a. h =
π r2
b. 1.50 cm

Example 27
1 1 1
Given that + = , express f in terms of u and v .
u v f
Solution:
uv
Answer: f =
u+v
Example 28
Change the subject in each of the following expressions [to the variable as
indicated].
a.=S 2π r 2 + 2π rh [h]
n
b. T = 2π [m ]
m
c.
= d A ( 3
L−H ) [H ]
Solution:
Answers:
S − 2π r 2
a. h =
2π r
4π 2 n
b. m =
T2
d3
c. H = L −
A3

1.5 Solving an algebraic equation with one variable
4
Consider 5 x + 3 =7 , the only value of x that satisfies the expression is .
5
Finding particular value(s) that satisfy an equation is known as solving the equation.
Example 29
2x + 4 x −1
Find the value(s) of x for − 5.
=
2 3
Solution: Recall:
a c ad + bc
2x + 4 x −1 i) + =
− =5 b d bd
2 3
a c ac
3 ( 2 x + 4 ) − 2 ( x − 1) ii) × =
=5 b d bd
6
6 x + 12 − 2 x + 2 = ( 5)( 6 )
4 x + 14 =
30 a c
iii) if = then ad = bc
x=4 b d
2(4) + 4 4 − 1
Checking: LHS = − 5=
= RHS
2 3
Example 30
1 4 1
Find the value(s) of x for + =
2 ( x − 2 ) 3 ( x − 2 ) x − 3x + 2
2
17
Answer:
11

Example 31
Recall:
2x + 3 x − 4 5 a c ad + bc
Solve for x where − = i) + =
3 4 2 b d bd
a c ac
ii) × =
b d bd
a c
iii) if = then ad = bc
b d
6
Answer:
5

Tutorial 1 Arithmetic and Algebra
5 22 81
1. Given the numbers − , − 9, 0, π , , 5, , 5 , identify the following:
2 7 49
a) Whole numbers;
b) Prime numbers;
c) Irrational numbers.
4 π 3
8 7
2. Given the numbers −5, − , − , 0, , , identify the following:
3 2 4 2
a) Integers;
b) Rational numbers.
3. Approximate the following set of values.

a) 557,290 m [km]
b) 1,095,213,467 Bytes [GB]
c) 0.0034561 g [mg]
i. to 2 significant figures
ii. to 4 significant figures
iii. to standard form
iv. to prefixes indicated in the brackets
4. Approximate the following set of values.

a) $3,677,013,567 [billions]
b) 0.000056717 m [𝜇𝜇m]
c) 0.000000045178 g [ng]
i. to 2 significant figures
ii. to 3 significant figures
iii. to standard form
iv. to prefixes indicated in the brackets
5. Find the prime factorization of 108.

Hence, find the smallest integer 𝑧𝑧 such that 108𝑧𝑧 is a
a) perfect square
b) perfect cube
6. Express 360 as a product of prime factors.

Hence, find the smallest integer 𝑧𝑧 such that 360𝑧𝑧 is a
a) perfect square
b) perfect cube

7. Find the HCF and LCM of the following set of expressions.

a) 15 , 24 , 36
b) cd 2 , d 3ef , de 2 g
( x + 2 ) ( x + 1)
2
c) , x 2 + 3x + 2
8. Given the following expressions:

a) Simplify 3u − 10 (1 − 2u )
b) Factorise ( 3 x − 1)( 4 x − 3) + 33 x
c) Simplify ( 5 x − 3)( x − 4 ) − 55 x
d) Factorize 13cx + 52cy − 5dx − 20dy
45t − 63
e) Simplify
3v
t 2 + 4t − 21
f) Simplify
2t 2 + 18t + 28
35a − 5b
g) Simplify
3ab + b 2 − 21a 2 − 7ab
h) Factorise ( 9a − 4 )( a + 4 ) − 32a
9. Express the following in its simplest form.

25t 2 − 49
a)
15t 2 + 26t + 7
c 2 + 4c + 4 2c + 1
b) ×
2c 2 + 9c + 7 5c + 10
64 − x 3 1
c) × 2
7−x x − 16
9e − 4 27e 3 − 8
2
d) ÷
5 15
10. Make the variable in the brackets the subject of each of the expressions.
a) x 3 + y 3 =
27 [y]
100
b)
= C +7 [m ]
m
2+n
c) T = [n]
2−n
Mb
d) d = [ m ], [ M ]
m+M
 f  D
e) M =  − 1 × [f]
u  v

11. Solve the following equations.

1
a) 5 + =6
x −1
1 5
b) =
x +1 x + 2
12. John drives to office every morning with a usual speed of 60 km/h. On a
particular day, he traveled slower by 10 km/h and found that he had reached the
office 15 minutes later.
a) Assuming that the distance between the office and his home is x km,
x x 1
show that − = .
50 60 4
b) Hence, or otherwise, find x (in km).
13. A developer bought 2 plots of land, plot A and B . The areas of plot A is 15
units2 smaller than the plot B , the combined land area of plot A and two-third of
plot B is 65 units2. What is the size of plot B ?
14. A swimmer started a lap with a speed of x m/s. 10 seconds later, he reduced his
speed by 0.5 m/s and finished the rest of the lap in another 12.5 seconds. If one
lap was 50 m, what was his speed in the later part of the swim?
15. The velocity of flow, v (in m/s) during a wind tunnel experiment on a sphere of
radius r cm is found to be related to the initial wind speed u (in m/s) and cross
 r3 
sectional length of pipe, x cm such that= v u 1 − 3  .
 x 
a) Express r in terms of v , u and x .
b) Hence, or otherwise, find the value of r for x = 7 , v = 6 and u = 27 .
16. Two national soccer teams, Lions and Tigers, uses the same field in the
Singapore Sports Hub for their soccer practices. One day, they met each other
while training.
a) The Lions meet every x ( 2 x + 1) days while the tigers meet every
( 2 x + 1)( x + 3) days. How often do they meet each other?
(Express your answers in terms of x ).
b) It is known that the Tigers have a more relaxed training schedule and the
resting period in between the training is 15 days longer than the Lions, how
often do the Lions meet?

Tutorial 1 Answers
1)
a) 0, 5
b) 5
c) 𝜋𝜋, √5
2)
3
8
a) − 5, 0,
4
3
8 7
b) − 5, 0, ,
4 2
3)
(a) (b) (c)
𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓, 𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐 𝐦𝐦 𝟏𝟏, 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎, 𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐𝟐, 𝟒𝟒𝟒𝟒𝟒𝟒 𝐁𝐁𝐁𝐁𝐁𝐁𝐁𝐁𝐁𝐁 𝟎𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐠𝐠
2 Sig. Fig. 560,000 m 1,100,000,000 B 0.0035 g
4 Sig. Fig. 557,300 m 1,095,000,000 B 0.003456 g
Standard Form 5.57 × 105 m 1.10 × 109 B 3.46 × 10−3 g
Prefix 557 km 1.10 GB 3.46 mg
4)
(a) (b) (c)
$𝟑𝟑, 𝟔𝟔𝟔𝟔𝟔𝟔, 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎, 𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓𝟓 𝟎𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐦𝐦 𝟎𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐠𝐠
2 Sig. Fig. $3,700,000,000 0.000057 m 0.000000045 g
3 Sig. Fig. $3,680,000,000 0.0000567 m 0.0000000452 g
Standard Form $3.68 × 109 5.67 × 10−5 m 4.52 × 10−8 g
Prefix $3.68B 56.7 μm 45.2 ng
5) 2 × 2 × 3 × 3 × 3
a) 3
b) 2
6) 2 × 2 × 2 × 3 × 3 × 5
a) 10
b) 75
7)
a) HCF = 3 LCM = 360
b) HCF = 𝑑𝑑 LCM = 𝑐𝑐𝑑𝑑3 𝑒𝑒 2 𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓
c) HCF = (𝑥𝑥 + 1)(𝑥𝑥 + 2) LCM = (𝑥𝑥 + 1)(𝑥𝑥 + 2)2

8)
15t − 21
a) 23u − 10 e)
v
t −3
b) (2 x + 3)(6 x + 1) f)
2t + 4
5
c) 5 x 2 − 78 x + 12 g) −
3a + b
d) (x + 4 y )(13c − 5d ) h) (3a + 4 )(3a − 4 )
9)
5t − 7 x 2 + 4 x + 16
a) c)
3t + 1 (x + 4)(x − 7 )
(c + 2)(2c + 1) 3(3e + 2 )
b) d)
5(2c + 7 )(c + 1) 9e 2 + 6e + 4
10)
3 M (b − d ) Mb
a)=y 27 − x3 =d) m or −M
d d
100 dm
b) m = M=
c2 − 7 b−d
2T 2 − 2  Mv 
c) n = 2 e) f = u 1 + 
T +1  D 
11)
a) 2
3
b) −
4
12) 75 km
13) 48 units2
14) 2 m/s
15)
 v 
=
a) r x  3 1 −  b) 6.44 cm
 u 
16)
a) Every x ( 2 x + 1)( x + 3) days b) Every 10 days

Chapter 2 Quadratic Equations
The pictures show a ball being thrown into the air on the left, and a skateboarding
ramp on the right. Do you notice similarities in the paths? The two paths are examples
of quadratic functions.
Quadratic functions may be used to describe the trajectories of water from a fountain,
or incorporated into structures like the parabolic reflectors that form the base of
satellite dishes. They may also be used in forecasting of business profit and loss,
determining the maximum and minimum performances, etc. A sports car designer can
also apply quadratic functions in his design!
2.1 Quadratic Equation
A quadratic equation is expressed in the form

ax 2 + bx + c = 0 where a, b and c are real numbers and a ≠ 0 .
A quadratic expression is expressed in the form

y = ax 2 + bx + c where a, b and c are real numbers and a ≠ 0 .
The highest power for the variable x in a quadratic expression is 2.

While b and c may be zero, a cannot be zero.
For instance, the expression y = 3 x 2 − 2 x + 1 contains the coefficients

a = 3 , b = −2 and c = 1 . Since a ≠ 0 , it is a quadratic expression.
We will learn how to solve quadratic equations by

i. Completing the Square
ii. Quadratic Formula
iii. Graphical Method

2.2 Completing the Square

Completing the square involves writing the quadratic equation or expression in the
form of a squared bracket and adding a constant if necessary.
One application of this technique is finding the maximum or minimum value of a
function, and when it occurs.
Example 1
Complete the square for the expression y = 2 x 2 − 20 x + 6 . Hence, solve the equation
2 x 2 − 20 x + 6 =0 , giving your answers correct to three significant figures.
Solution: Make sure it is 1 and nothing else!

Step 1) Ensure that the coefficient of x is 1. 2 -1 or other numbers will NOT work!
y = 2 x 2 − 20 x + 6 Optional Step:
y= 2  x 2 − 10 x + ( −5 ) − ( −5 ) + 3
2 2
y = 2  x 2 − 10 x + 3  
Step 2a) Take note of the coefficient of x ( −10 in this example).
Step 2b) Divide the coefficient by 2 (we arrive at −5 ).
Step 2c) Rewrite the x 2 and x terms into a perfect square using (2b).
Step 2d) Square the same term in (2b), and subtract it from the perfect square.
y 2 ( x − 5 ) − ( −5 ) + 3
2 2
=
 
Step 3) Simplify within the brackets, before simplifying outside of it.
y= 2 ( x − 5 ) − 25 + 3
2
 
y = 2 ( x − 5 ) − 22 
2
 
y = 2 ( x − 5 ) − 44
2
To solve, equate the expression to 0 and simplify.
y = 2 ( x − 5 ) − 44 = 0
2
2 ( x − 5) =
2
44
( x − 5)
2
22
=
Take square roots on both sides of the equation and make x the subject.
x − 5 =± 22
x= 5 ± 22
Therefore,
x= 5 + 22 x= 5 − 22
or
x = 9.69 (3 s.f.) x = 0.310 (3 s.f.)

Example 2
Solve 2 x 2 + 18 x + 10 =
0 by completing the square. Give your answers correct to three
significant figures.
Solution:
Answers: −8.41, −0.595
2.3 Quadratic Formula

The quadratic formula can be used to solve the general quadratic equation
ax 2 + bx + c = 0 where a ≠ 0 . Using the steps learnt in the earlier section, we can
derive the quadratic formula by means of completing the square.
ax 2 + bx + c =0
b c
x2 + x + = 0
a a
2 2
 b   b  c
x+  −  + = 0
 2a   2a  a
2
 b  b2 c
x+  = 2−
 2a  4a a
2
 b  b 2 − 4ac
 x +  =
 2a  4a 2
b b 2 − 4ac
x+ =
±
2a 4a 2
b b 2 − 4ac
x=
− ±
2a 2a
−b ± b 2 − 4ac
x=
2a
Note:
Unless otherwise specified, all non-exact answers should be rounded to 3 sig. fig.

Example 3
Solve 3 x 2 + 7 x − 8 = 0 using the quadratic formula.
Solution:
Comparing with ax 2 + bx + c = 0 , we have a = 3 , b = 7 and c = −8 .
− b ± b 2 − 4ac
x=
2a
− 7 ± 7 2 − 4(3)(− 8)
=
2(3)
− 7 ± 49 + 96
=
6
− 7 ± 145
=
6
Therefore,
−7 + 145 −7 − 145
=x = 0.840 (3 s.f.) or x= = −3.17 (3 s.f.)
6 6
Note:
The solutions 0.840 and −3.17 are also called the roots of the equation.
Example 4
Solve the following equations using the quadratic formula.
a. x 2 − 6 x + 9 =0 b. x 2 + 4 x + 5 = 0
Solution:
Answers:
a) 3
b) No solution

From Examples 3 and 4, we can consolidate our findings:
Solutions & Discriminant

Equation Graph
Characteristics b 2 − 4ac
x = 0.840 , x = −3.17 7 2 − 4 3 −8
( )( )
3x 2 + 7 x − 8 = 0 Two real &
distinct roots = 145 > 0
x = 3, x = 3
( −6 ) − 4 (1)( 9 )
2
2
x − 6x + 9 =0 Two real &
equal roots =0
2 No Solution 42 − 4 (1)( 5 )
x + 4x + 5 = 0
No real roots =−4 < 0
If b 2 − 4ac > 0 , the graph passes through the x - axis at two distinct intersections.
If b 2 − 4ac = 0 , the graph passes through the x - axis at one distinct intersection.
If b 2 − 4ac < 0 , the graph does not pass through the x - axis.
The discriminant b 2 − 4ac can be used to determine the nature of the roots.
2.4 Graphical Method

The roots of the quadratic equation ax 2 + bx + c = 0 may also be obtained from the
graphs of y = ax 2 + bx + c and y = 0 (i.e. the x-axis).
The coordinates of the intersection points of the two graphs satisfy both equations.
The x-coordinates of the intersection points are the solutions (or roots) of the
quadratic equation ax 2 + bx + c = 0 .
We have learnt that a quadratic equation can have

a. two real and distinct roots, or
b. two real and equal roots, or
c. no real roots.
The number of intersection points correspond to the number of roots of the quadratic
equation. The nature of the roots are as follows:
• When there are two intersection points, the two roots are real and distinct;
• When there is one intersection point, the two roots are real and equal;
• When there are no intersection points, there are no real roots.

Example 5
The quadratic equation y = x 2 + 2 x + 4 has a list of values tabulated below:

x −4 −3 −2 −1 0 1 2
y 12 7 4 3 4 7 12
2
a. Draw the graph of y = x + 2 x + 4 for − 4 ≤ x ≤ 2 .
b. Use your graph to solve:
i. x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 7 ii. x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 3 iii. x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 0
Solution:
a. Graph of y = x 2 + 2 x + 4 for − 4 ≤ x ≤ 2
b.i. To solve x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 7 , draw the line y = 7 on the same axes of the graph of
y = x 2 + 2x + 4 .
The solutions can be obtained from the x-coordinates of the intersection
points.
Since there are two intersection points, the equation has two real and distinct
roots. The roots of x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 7 are x = −3 and x = 1 .

ii. To solve x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 3 , draw the line y = 3 on the same axes of the graph of
y = x 2 + 2x + 4 .
Since there is only one intersection point, the equation has two real and equal
roots. The roots of x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 3 are x = −1 (repeated).
iii. To solve x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 0 , look for the points where the graph y = x 2 + 2 x + 4

cuts the line y = 0 (i.e. x-axis). Do you see any?
Since there are no intersection points, the equation x 2 + 2 x + 4 = 0 has no real
roots.
Example 6
a. Plot the graph of y = x 2 + x − 5 for −5 ≤ 𝑥𝑥 ≤ 4 on a piece of graph paper.
b. Using the same graph, estimate to one decimal place, the solutions of the
following equations:
i. x2 + x − 2 = 0
ii. x2 − x − 6 = 0
1 2
iii.
3
( )
x + x − 5 = 2.5

Answers: b.i. -2, 1 ii. -2, 3 iii. -4.1, 3.1

Example 7
A man stands on the edge of a hill and hurls a stone. The path of the stone is described
by the equation y = 70 + 3 x − x 2 where x (metres) is the horizontal distance from the
edge of the hill and y (metres) is the height of the stone above the ground.
a. Plot the graph of y = 70 + 3 x − x 2 for 0 ≤ x ≤ 10 on a piece of graph paper.
b. Use the graph to find the positive root of the equation 70 + 3 x − x 2 = 0 .

Explain briefly what the solution means.
c. Use the graph to find the horizontal distance when the stone is 60 m above
ground for the first time.
Answers: b. 10 c. 5

2.5 Graph of Quadratic Functions

Given a, b and c are real numbers and a ≠ 0 ,
ax 2 + bx + c = 0 is known as a quadratic equation,
y = ax 2 + bx + c is called a quadratic function.
Observations from Examples 5, 6 and 7

Line of symmetry
Quadratic b
Coefficient of x 2
Sketch of graph x= −
Function
2a
y = x 2 + 2x + 4
y = x2 + x − 5
y = 70 + 3x − x 2
For a quadratic function

y = ax 2 + bx + c
if a > 0, if a < 0,
• the graph of the quadratic function • the graph is as shown below

is as shown below (smiling face). (sad face).
• minimum point and line of • maximum point and line of

symmetry occur when symmetry occur when
b b
x= − x= −
2a 2a
Using the facts above, can you sketch the graph of y = 3 x 2 + 6 x − 5 and label its
minimum or maximum point.

2.6 Fractional Equations

A fractional equation is one that contains an unknown in the denominator of one or
4 3
more terms, for example, + = 8.
x x +1
A fractional equation can be solved as follows:

• Multiply both sides of the fractional equation by the lowest common multiple
(LCM) of the denominators
• Solve the resulting equation
• Check the feasibility of the answers
Example 8
−2
Solve the equation = x+6
x+3
Solution:
Multiply both sides by x + 3
 −2 
 ( x + 3) = ( x + 6 )( x + 3)
 x + 3
− 2 = x 2 + 9 x + 18
x 2 + 9 x + 20 = 0
( x + 4)( x + 5) = 0 [By factorization]
Therefore,
( x + 4) = 0 ( x + 5) = 0
or
x = −4 x = −5
Example 9
− 18
Solve the equation: x + 7 =
x−4
Solution:
Answers: −5, 2

Example 10
3 1
Solve the equation: + =7
x − 2 x +1
Solution:
Answer: –0.876, 2.45
Example 11
2 1
Solve the equation: + =2
x−3 x−5
Solution:
Answer: 3.72, 5.78

Example 12
A man swims up and down a stream. He covers 40 m for each lap. When he swims
with the current, he would complete his lap 15 seconds earlier than if he were to swim
against the current. The man swims at a speed of 2 m/s and the speed of the current
is v m/s. Show that 15v 2 +80v − 60 = 0 , and hence find v.
Solution:
Answer: 0.667 m/s

Example 13
A vendor sets the selling price of a certain product as p = 80 − 2 x , where p is the selling
price and x is the quantity demanded.
(a) Express the revenue y (total amount of money earned) in terms of x.

(b) Sketch the quadratic function in (a). Identify the maximum revenue, the
corresponding quantity sold and the selling price.
Solution:
Answers: b. 800, 20, 40

Tutorial 2 Quadratic Equations
1. Solve the following quadratic equations by completing the square:

a. x 2 + 3x − 5 = 0
b. 2 x 2 − 5 x + 2 = 0
c. − 3x 2 + x + 7 = 0
2. Solve the following quadratic equations by the quadratic formula:

a. 8 x + x 2 − 2 = 0 b. − 2 x − 5 x 2 + 11 = 0
1 2
3. Plot the graph of y =
2
( )
x − 6 x for − 3 ≤ x ≤ 9 on a graph paper.
Using the same graph, estimate to one decimal place, the solutions of the
following equations:
1 2
a.
2
( )
x − 6x = 6 b. x 2 − 6x − 4 = 4
2 2 1 2 2x
c.
3
( x − 6x − 6) =
−4 d.
2
( x − 6 x ) =−
4
3
4. Solve the following fractional equations:

4 3 2 5q
a. + =2 b. =
p p +1 q −1 3 + q
5. The graph of y = x 2 − 6 x + 6 cuts the x-axis at two points, A and B. Determine the
x-coordinates of A and B by the ‘completing the square’ method.
6. The curve y = 8 + 3 x − 2 x 2 intersects the line y = −4 at points P and Q.

a. Write an equation that has the x-coordinates of P and Q as its solutions.
b. Using the ‘completing the square’ method, solve the equation in (a).
7. Solve the equation 2 p 2 + 5 p − 2 = 0 . Hence determine the values of m that

satisfy the equation 2(m + 1) + 5(m + 1) − 2 = 0 .
2
3 2m
8. Express − 2 as a single fraction in its simplest form.
m+2 m −4
3 2m 1
Hence, solve − 2 =−
m+2 m −4 6

9. Daniel recently bought a car and wanted to determine its fuel consumption rate,
x (km/L). He obtained the following information from the test drive:
• When he attaches a fuel-efficient device to the car, the fuel efficiency

increases by 3 km for every litre of petrol.
• For a 90-km journey, attaching the device would save him one litre of petrol.
Determine the actual fuel consumption of the car.
10. A lorry takes 2 h 40 min more than a car to cover 800 km. If the car is 30 km/h
faster than the lorry, find the speed of the car, correct to the nearest km/h.
11. A ball was catapulted from the ground. Its path is described by the equation
h = 30t − 5t 2 , where h is the height of the ball (in metres) above the ground after
t seconds.
a. Find the timing(s) for which the ball is at a height of 20 m.

b. Find the value of h at which there is only one solution to the equation
above.
12. The organizers of a party cordoned off a rectangular area ABCD. They used a
160-m rope to form the sides AB, BC and CD.
a. Given that AB = x m, write an expression for the length of BC in terms of x.

b. Given that the area of ABCD is 3000 m2, form an equation and show that
it reduces to x 2 − 80 x + 1500 = 0 .
c. Solve the equation and state the possible lengths of BC.

Tutorial 2 Answers
1) Complete the square

 −3 ± 29   1 ± 85 
a) −4.19, 1.19 or   c) −1.37, 1.70 or  
 2   6 
b) 0.5, 2
2) Quadratic formula
 −1 ± 2 14 
a) −8.24, 0.243 or ( −4 ± 3 2 ) b) −1.70, 1.30 or 
5

 
3) Graphical method
a) −1.6, 7.6 c) 0, 6
b) −1.1, 7.1 d) −1.3, 6
4)
 5 ± 57 
a) −0.637, 3.14 or   b) −0.6, 2
 4 
5) Complete the square 1.27, 4.73 or (3 ± 3 )

6) Complete the square
 3 ± 105 
a) 2𝑥𝑥 2 − 3𝑥𝑥 − 12 = 0 b) −1.81, 3.31 or  
 4 
7) −2.85, 0.351; −0.649, −3.85
m−6
8) ; −10, 4
( m − 2 )( m + 2 )
9) 15 km/L
10) 111 km/h
11)
a) 0.764 s, 5.24 s
b) 45 m
12)
a) (160 − 2𝑥𝑥) m
b) 60 m, 100 m

Chapter 3 Exponents and Radicals
3.1 Exponents and Radicals
Exponents (or indices)
It is often necessary to multiply a number, b , by itself several times. The notation b n is

known as b to the n th power.
b n = b⋅
b
⋅
⋅b
n factors
The number b is called the base and n is called the exponent.
1
If b ≠ 0 , then b 0 = 1 and b −n =
bn
For examples:
a. (− 3)4 = (− 3) ⋅ (− 3) ⋅ (− 3) ⋅ (− 3) = 81
b. − 34 = −(3 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 3) = −81
0
3
c.   =1
7
1 1
d. (− 2)−3 = =−
(− 2)3
8
Radicals (or Roots)
If n is a positive integer, then the n th root of a is defined as follows:

n
a = a1 / n = b means bn = a
For example,
a. 3
64 means cube root of 64,=
3
64 ( 64
= )
1/3
(=
4 )
3 1/3
4
b. 23 means square root of 23
Fractional Exponents
For any fractional exponent m / n in lowest terms, where m and n are integers and n is
positive, then
bm/ n = ( b)
n
m
or bm/ n = n bm
If n is even, then it is necessary that b ≥ 0 .

3.2 Laws of Exponents (or Indices)
Laws Examples
1. Multiplication m
b ⋅b = b n m+ n
x ⋅ x = x 3+ 4 = x 7
3 4
2. Division bm c10
n
= b m−n 6
= c10−6 = c 4
b c
3. Power of a power (b ) m n
= b mn (y ) 2 3
= y 2×3 = y 6
4. Power of a product (a ⋅ b )m = a m ⋅ b m (2 ⋅ a )2 / 3 = 2 2 / 3 ⋅ a 2 / 3
5. Power of a quotient a am
m
 p
3
p3
  =   = 3
b bm q q
6. Zero exponent b0 = 1 0
3 =1
7. Negative exponent 1 1
b −m = 5 −3 =
bm 53
8. Fractional exponent bm/ n = n bm 4 3 / 2 = 4 3 = 64 = 8
Example 1
For each of the following expressions, simplify and express your answers in positive
exponents:
2a 3 m 7 n
a. 6x 0 b.
4a 4 n 4 m 5
(3a b ) (− 2 p q )
−2
4 8 3 3 −4 3  x2 
c. d. e.  
 4y 
Solution:
a. 6 x 0 = 6 ⋅1 = 6
2a 3 m 7 n 2 3−4 7 −5 1−4 1 −1 2 −3 m2
b. = ⋅a ⋅m ⋅n = a ⋅m ⋅n =
4a 4 n 4 m 5 4 2 2an 3
c. (3a b )
4 8 3
= 33 ⋅ a 4×3 ⋅ b 8×3 = 27 a12 b 24
8 p9
d. (− 2 p q ) = (− 2) ⋅ ( p ) ⋅ (q )
3 −4 3 3 3 3 −4 3
= −8 p 9 q −12 = −
q12
−2
e.
 x2 
 
 4y 
= 2  =
(4 y ) 16 y 2
2
= 4
2
 4y  x  x2
2
( )
x

Example 2
Simplify each expression and express your answers in positive exponents:
15 p 5 q 7
a. − (2x )
0
b. 2 2 7
3p r q
c. − 3 x 2 yp
2
( )
−3 −3 −3 2
 − 4n 2   − 2 p −2 q   x3   y 
   3 −4    ⋅  −3 
 m   q p   y  x 
d. e. f.
Solution:
Answers:
5 p3 m3 q6 y5
a. −1 b. c. 9 x 4 y 2 p 2 d. − e. − f.
r2 64n 6 8 p6 x3

Example 3
Simplify each expression and express your answers in positive exponents.
−3 / 2
m5 / 6 y −1 / 3  p1 / 4 q 5 / 3 
a. 3
1/ 2
⋅3 3/ 4
b. c. 1 / 2 −3 / 4 (
d. 27x )
3/ 2 2/ 3
e.  1/ 2

m y ⋅y  qp 
Solution:
a. 31 / 2 ⋅ 33 / 4 = 3(1 / 2 ) + (3 / 4 ) = 35 / 4
m5 / 6 1
b. = m 5 / 6 − 1 = m −1 / 6 = 1 / 6
m m
y −1/ 3
c. 1/ 2 −3 / 4
= y ( −1/ 3) −(1/ 2 ) − ( −3 / 4 )
y ⋅y
1
= y −1 / 12 = 1 / 12
y
d. (27 x ) 3/ 2 2/3
= (27 )
2/3
⋅ x ( 3 / 2 ) ⋅ ( 2 / 3) = 9 x 1 = 9 x
−3 / 2
 p1 / 4 q 5 / 3 
e.  1/ 2 
 (
= p (1/ 4 ) − (1/ 2 ) ⋅ q (5 / 3) − 1 )
−3 / 2
 qp 
(
= p −1 / 4 q 2 / 3 )−3 / 2
= p 3 / 8 q −1
p3/8
=
q

Example 4
Simplify each expression and express your answer in positive exponents.
y m1 / 3 ⋅ m1 / 2
a. x1 / 3 ⋅ x −3 / 4 b. c.
y1/ 7 m −2 / 3
−1 / 3
 x1 / 4 y 2 / 3 
d. (64 p ) −5 / 2 2 / 3
e.  −1 / 3 

 xy 
Solution:
Answers:
1 16 x1 / 4
a. b. y 6 / 7 c. m 3 / 2 d. e.
x 5 / 12 p5/3 y1/ 3

3.3 Simplest Radical Forms

The roots of numbers can be expressed with fractional exponents or radical forms.
Exponential Form Radical Form
(b )n 1/ n
=b n
bn = b n th root of n th power
(ab )1/ n = a1/ n ⋅ b1/ n n
ab = n a n b Root of a product
(b )1/ m 1/ n
= b1 / mn n m
b = mn b Root of a root
a
1/ n
a1 / n a na Root of a quotient
  = n =
b b1 / n b nb
Four basic requirements must be satisfied for a radical expression to be in simplest

radical form:
a. There must be no perfect n th root factor under a radical with index n .
b. Multiple radicals or radicals within radicals, must be combined.
c. The denominator of a fraction must not contain a radical (rationalization).
d. The order of the radical must be reduced, if possible.
For example,
a. 27 = 9 ⋅ 3 = 3 3
b. 3
5 =6 5
5 5 5 2 10
c. = = ⋅ = (rationalization)
2 2 2 2 2
d. 4
25 x 6 = 4 5 x 3 ( ) 2
= 5x 3 = x 5x
Example 5
Simplify a. x5 y 7 b. 3
54m 7 n 5
Solution:
a. x 5 y 7 = x 4 ⋅ x ⋅ y 6 ⋅ y = x 2 y 3 xy
3
b. 54m7 n=
5 3
27 ⋅ 2 ⋅ m6 ⋅ m ⋅ n3 ⋅ n=
2
3m 2 n 3 2mn 2

Example 6
125 x2 x2
Simplify a. b. c.
3 3y 3
3y 2
Solution:
a.
125 25 ⋅ 5 5 5
= =
3 3 3
5 5 3 5 15
= ⋅ =
3 3 3
b.
x2 x2 3y
= ⋅
3y 3y 3y
x2 3 y
=
3y
c.
x2 x2 3 9y
= ⋅
3
3y2 3
3y 2 3 9y
x2 3 9 y
=
3
27 y 3
x2 3 9 y
=
3y

Example 7
343 27 x 3 24 x 6 y 8
Simplify a. 27 p 3 q 7 b. 3
686m 5 n 7 c. d. e. 3
5 2y 5z
Solution:
Answers:
2 x2 y 2 ( 3
75 y 2 z 2 )
a. 3 pq 3
3 pq b. 7 mn 2
( 3 2
2m n ) c.
7 35
5
d.
3 x 6 xy
2y
e.
5z

3.4 Addition and Subtraction with Negative Exponents
Example 8
Simplify the following expressions and leave your answers in positive exponents:
x −1
a.
2 x −1 + 3 y −2
−1
 3 
b.  
 ( 2a )−1 − a 
 
Solution:
a.
1
x −1
= x
2 x −1 + 3 y −2 2 + 3
x y2
1
= x
2 y 2 + 3x
xy 2
1 2 y 2 + 3x
= ÷
x xy 2
1 xy 2
= × 2
x 2 y + 3x
y2
=
2 y 2 + 3x
b.
−1
−1  
 3   3 
  = 
 ( 2a ) − a   1 −a
−1
 
 2a 
−1
 
 3 
= 2 
 1 − 2a 
 
 2a 
−1
 2a 
=  3× 2 
 1 − 2a 
1 − 2a 2
=
6a

Example 9
Simplify the following expressions and leave your answers in positive exponents:
y
a.
3 x + y −1
−2
−1
 2t 
b.  −1 −3 
 t − 2t 
Answers:
x2 y 2 t2 − 2
a. b.
x2 + 3 y 2t 4

Tutorial 3 Exponents and Radicals
1. Simplify and express your answers in positive exponents:
a. 4 x 0 y 4 x 3 y −2
18m 3 n 7 q 4
b.
27 n 2 q 2 m
c. (3x 2
)(
y 5 r 4 ⋅ 4r 2 x 3 y 3 )
5s −3 p 2 q 3
d.
125 p −7 q 2 m
e. (2 xy r ) ⋅ (8r
2 3 −3 4
x 9 y −2 )
−2
 3x 2 y 3 
f. ( 4
3 x y r ⋅ 3 2
)

 4r 
2. Simplify and express your answers in positive exponents:

3/ 4
p 3 / 2 n −2 / 3  16 s −3 
a. 5 1/ 2
⋅5 3/ 2
b. c.  2 / 3 
np1 / 2 m 0  s 
3. Express each of the following in simplest radical form:
a. 72a 7 b 5
28 x 4 y 3
b.
3x 3 y 8
5
c.
3x
m5
d. 3
2n 2
4. Simplify each of the following expressions in positive exponents:

−1
y −2  2y 
a. b.  
x −2 + 2 y −1  1 − ( 3 y )−1 
 

Tutorial 3 Answers
1)
a) 4𝑥𝑥 3 𝑦𝑦 2
2m 2 n 5 q 2
b)
3
6 5 8
c) 12𝑟𝑟 𝑥𝑥 𝑦𝑦
p9 q
d)
25ms 3
x6
e) 5 8
r y
16r 4
f)
3y3
2)
a) 52
p
b) 5
n3
8
c) 11
s4
3)
a) 6𝑎𝑎3 𝑏𝑏 2 √2𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎
2 21xy
b)
3y3
15 x
c)
3x
d)
(
m 3 4m 2 n )
2n
4)
x2
a)
(
y 2x2 + y )
3y −1
b)
6 y2

Chapter 4 Simultaneous Equations
Equations may involve more than one unknown quantity (example: 7 x + y = 9 ).
When an equation involves more than one unknown, one equation is insufficient
to find out the specific set of required values.
In the instance above, there are many possibilities for x and y to satisfy (“agree”)
with the equation (for instance, x and y can be 1 and 2 respectively or x and y
can be 2 and -5 respectively.
However, if two (or more) equations are given simultaneously, for example,
7x + y = 9
− 3x + 2 y = 1 .
then the only set of values that can satisfy both equations are x = 1 , y = 2 .
You can verify that the solution of these equations is x = 1, y = 2 by substituting these
values into both equations to see if both sides of each equation (LHS and RHS) agree.
When two or more equations can only be satisfied by a common set of values, these
equations are called simultaneous equation.
Simultaneous equations can be used to solve some problems encountered in our daily
lives.
In order to solve a set of simultaneous equations we must find the values of x and y
that can satisfy each of these equations in the set.
There are three ways of solving two simultaneous equations:
• Elimination method
• Substitution method
• Graphical method
April 2024 Semester Chapter 4| Page 60

4.1 Elimination Method
This method involves removing one of the unknowns.
This is achieved by multiplying or dividing any of the given equations by a fixed number
so that coefficients of one of the unknowns are the same in both equations.
The unknown is then eliminated by adding or subtracting the equations.
For example, given the following equations,
60 …(1)
3x + 2 y =
x− y =90 …(2)
Assuming now we choose to eliminate x .

To make the coefficients of x the same, we multiply (2) by 3.
60 …(1)
3x + 2 y =
( 2) × 3 : 270 …(2a)
3x − 3 y =
Now, the unknown x can be eliminated by subtracting (2a) from (1).
(1) − (2a ) : 3 x + 2 y − (3 x − 3 y ) = 60 − 270

5 y = −210
The purpose of elimination is to reduce the set of simultaneous equations to one

equation with only one unknown. The value of the unknown can then be evaluated
conclusively.
(÷5) : y = −42
Substitute y = −42 into (2) to find the value of x
x − (−42) = 90
x = 48
Therefore the solution is x = 48, y = –42
Checking:
substitute x = 48, y = –42 into LHS of (1),
3(48) + 2(−42) = 60 = RHS
Note: The equations can also be solved by eliminating the y term by multiplying
equation (2) by 2.

Example 1
Solve the following pairs of simultaneous equations using the elimination method:
x y
3 x + y = 11 + =3
a. b. 3 4
5 x + 7 y = 45 y
x+ =4
2
Solution:
Answers: a. 2, 5 b. -6, 20

4.2 Substitution Method
Two equations with two unknowns may also be reduced to one equation with one
unknown by ‘replacing one of the variables’ from one equation into the other.
This is known as the substitution method. For example,
3x + 2 y = 60 …(1)
x− y = 90 …(2)
From (2),
x = 90 + y …(2a)
Substitute (2a) into (1) and the value of x can be found
3(90 + y ) + 2 y = 60
270 + 5 y = 60
5 y = −210
y = −42
Substitute y = −42 into (2) and the value of x can be found
x = 90 + (−42)
= 48
Therefore the solution is x = 48, y = –42
Example 2
Solve the following pairs of simultaneous equations using the substitution method:
2
x+ y =4
2x + y = 4 3
(a) (b)
5x + 3 y = 7 2
8x + y = 5
3
Solution:

21 129
Answers: a. 5, -6 b. ,
68 34
4.3 Graphical Method
Given two equations with two unknowns, say, x and y, it is also possible to find the
solutions from the graphs of the two equations.
The coordinates (x, y) of the intersection point of the two graphs represent the
solution of the equations as they satisfy both equations simultaneously.
If the two graphs do not intersect (parallel), then the equations have no solutions.
If the two graphs are identical, there are an infinite number of solutions.
For example, given these two equations,
y = 2 x + 60 ...(1)
y = x + 90 ...(2)
From the two graphs on the next page, the intersection point is (30, 120).

y
120
100
80
60
40
20
x
-5 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Therefore, the solution of the equations is x = 30, y = 120 .
Example 3
Solve the following pairs of simultaneous equations using the graphical method*.
3
4x + y = 0 5x − y =−
a. b. 2
− x + y =−1
10=
x 2y − 2
Solution:
*Note: Optional to use graphical method.
Answer: a. 0.2, -0.8

4.4 Application Problems involving Simultaneous Equations
Example 4
There are two types of weights: 4 grams and 8 grams. Altogether there are 27 such
weights and the total weight is 156 grams.
a. Given that m and n represent the number of 4-gram and 8-gram
weights respectively, form a pair of simultaneous equations.
b. Determine the number of 4-gram and 8-gram weights.
Solution:
Answers: b. 15, 12
Example 5
David has two printers in his company: printer A and printer B. He could print 1500
pages either by running both printers at the same time for 12 minutes or by running
printer A for 15 minutes followed by printer B for 10 minutes. Determine the printing
speed (in pages per minute) of each printer.
Solution:
Answers: 50, 75

Tutorial 4 Simultaneous Equations
1. Solve the following simultaneous equations using the elimination method.
3a + b = 5 6 p − q = 23 5m − 2n = 14
a. b. c.
2a − b = 5 6 p + 3q = 11 3m + 4n = 11
− 4b + 7 a = 10 9q − 2 p = 11 9n + 8m − 13 = 0
d. e. f.
2a − 5b = 8 3 p − 2q + 2 = 20 6m − 7 n = 45 − 2n
2. Solve the following simultaneous equations using the substitution method.
2 p − 3 + 3q = 8 5
4a + 2b = 5 + 3a m−n =8
a. b. c. 2
3a − b = 1 q −7 = −p
6n + m = 0
3 5− 6p + q = 2 m n
2a + b = −5 +6− = 7
d. 2 e. 1 f. 2 3
p − 3q = 2
6a − 12b = 18 2 10 + 3m = 18 + n
3. Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations using *graphical method.
3x − y = 0 5 y + 3 x = −14
a. b.
x + y = −6 2 y − x = −10
*Optional to use graphical method.
4. A rectangle has a length to breadth ratio of 5:3. The perimeter of the rectangle
is 480 cm.
a. Represent the given information with two equations.

b. Solve the two equations simultaneously and determine the area of the
rectangle.
5. A motorist drives his car at a constant speed of x km/h for 40 km.

a. If the motorist increases the speed of the car by y km/h, he would be able to
cover the 40 km in 20 minutes. Write an equation relating y to x.
b. If the motorist decreases the speed of the car by y km/h, he would be able
to cover the 40 km in 30 minutes. Write another equation relating y to x.
c. Determine x and y.

6. The number of diagonals of an n-sided polygon is D = an 2 + bn .
a. For each of the polygons shown above, form an equation relating a to b.

b. Solve the two equations simultaneously to find the values of a and b.
7. Ben has some 20-cent coins and 50-cent coins. The total value is $9.50.
a. If x is the number of 20-cent coins and y is the number of 50-cent coins,

write an equation relating x to y.
b. Ben uses one 20-cent coin and four 50-cent coins to pay for a drink. He then
had 20 coins left. Write another equation relating x to y.
c. Hence, determine the number of 20-cent coins and number of 50-cent coins
that Ben has initially.
8. Nathan waits for an elevator at the top floor of a building (80m above ground)
while John waits at the 4th floor (18m above ground). Nathan took the elevator
down while John took another elevator up at the same time. The speed of the
two elevators is 2.5 m/s.
a. Write equations to represent the height above the ground at any time for
Nathan and John.
b. Determine the time and height at which Nathan and John pass each other.
9. For the given pair of simultaneous equations, determine if each of the following
statements is True or False.
3 x − y = 15
,
2 y = 6 x − 12
a. The two equations are equivalent and have an infinite number of solutions.
(True / False)
b. The intersection point for the two equations is (−6, −15). (True / False)
c. The two equations have no solutions. (True / False)

Tutorial 4 Answers
1)
2 4
a) 2, − 1 d) 3
, −3
10
b) 3
, −3 e) 8, 3
1
c) 3, 2
f) 5, −3
2)
a) 1, 2 d) −1, −2
2 3
b) 10, −3 e) 5
, −5
1 10
c) 3, − 2 f) 3
, 2
3)
3 9
a) − 2 , − 2
b) 2, −4
4)
a) 3𝑙𝑙 = 5𝑏𝑏; 𝑙𝑙 + 𝑏𝑏 = 240
b) 90 cm, 150 cm; 13500 cm2
5)
a) 𝑥𝑥 + 𝑦𝑦 = 120 c) 20 km/h, 100 km/h
b) 𝑥𝑥 − 𝑦𝑦 = 80
6)
a) 8𝑎𝑎 + 2𝑏𝑏 = 1 ; 12𝑎𝑎 + 2𝑏𝑏 = 3
1 3
b) 𝑎𝑎 = 2 ; 𝑏𝑏 = − 2
7)
a) 2𝑥𝑥 + 5𝑦𝑦 = 95 c) 10, 15
b) 𝑥𝑥 + 𝑦𝑦 = 25
8)
a) 𝐻𝐻Nathan = 80 − 2.5𝑡𝑡 b) 12.4 s, 49 m
𝐻𝐻John = 18 + 2.5𝑡𝑡
9)
a) False
b) False
c) True

Chapter 5 Matrices
Alex is the owner of a chain of ice cream stores in Town A.
Each day, he needs to monitor the sales at various outlets at regular time intervals.
He then uses the information to instruct the central kitchen to top up the ice cream
wherever necessary.
Suppose Alex received the following information at noon, how would you advise Alex
to instruct his central kitchen based on the information received?
Number of ice cream sold in Town A till noon
outlet
parlour mobile kiosk café
Flavour
Vanilla 11 80 57
Chocolate Mint 53 64 12
Rum and Raisin 87 110 94
Cookies and Cream 27 15 44
You can easily make informed decisions when provided with well-organised data.
Data when organized in an orderly format as shown above is referred to as a

matrix.
Today, matrices are used in a variety of work where organizing data is essential
such as traffic control, stock-keeping, investment monitoring etc.
In this chapter, in learning about matrices, we will cover:
• facts about using matrices

• addition, subtraction and multiplication of matrices
• special matrices (zero matrix and identity matrix)
• application of matrices to real world problems.

5.1. Introduction to Matrix

A matrix is an ordered rectangular array of numbers.
The individual members are called elements of the matrix.
Double-subscript notations are used to refer to specific elements of the matrix:
 a11 a12 a13 

 
a a22 a23 
A =  21
 a31 a32 a33 
 
 a41 a42 a43 
The element a42 is located at Row 4 and Column 2.
A matrix of order m × n (read m by n ) has m rows and n columns.
For example, matrix A is a 4 × 3 matrix.
Matrices are usually represented by capital letters ( A , B , C , etc.).
Two matrices are said to be equal if:
1) they have the same order AND

2) the elements are respectively equal.
For example:
 a11 a12 a13   0 −4 3 

If  = 
 a21 a22 a23   2 35 12 
∴ a11 = 0 a12 = −4 a13 = 3
a21 = 2 a22 = 35 a23 = 12

Example 1
Matrices A and B represent the stock levels of two types of items in the outlets of
owners A and B respectively.
 4 7 2 5  14 0 2 
A=  B= 
 5 11 0 8   25 3 17 
a. State the order and the number of elements of matrix A.

b. State the number of outlets that owner A has.
c. State the order and the number of elements of matrix B.
d. State the number of outlets that owner B has.
Solution:
a. Order of matrix A = 2 × 4 , Number of elements of matrix A = 8
b. Owner A has 4 outlets. (Explanation: Since the two rows represent the two types
of items, the four columns must represent the number of outlets.)
c.
d.
Answer: c. ( 2 × 3) , 6 d. 3
Example 2
7 + x 5   6 5
   
Given  9 2 − y  =  9 1  , find x , y and z .
z−4 3   −9 3 

Solution:
7+x =6 ⇒ x = −1
2− y =
1 ⇒ y =1
z − 4 =−9 ⇒ z = −5
[Explanation: Given that the two matrices are equal, they must have the same order
and corresponding elements.]

Example 3
Given that X = Y , find the values of p and q if
 p2 − 4 p 5   −4 5 
X =  Y =  .
 2 p + q  2 9
Solution:
Answers: p = 2 , q = 7

5.2. Operations with Matrices (Addition and Subtraction)

Suppose Alex now has a chain of ice cream outlets in another town, Town B, as
shown below.
Number of ice cream sold in Town A till noon
outlet
Flavour
Vanilla 11 80 57
Number of ice cream sold in Town B till noon
Outlet
Flavour
Vanilla 6 28 37
The total daily sales for each flavour can be obtained by adding the sales
records for both towns.
Total number of ice cream sold in both towns till noon
outlet
Flavour
Vanilla 17 108 94
The addition process for matrices is performed by adding corresponding elements

for matrices of the same order.

Example 4
Simplify each of the following, if possible.
 −5   0   −5 
 3 2
a.  6  +  5  b.  6  +  
     
 1   −2   1   −1 0 
     
 3  1  3  1
 7 3   3 7 3
c. 2 + 2 d.  
2 +  2
       
 −11 4 5   −1 0   −11 4   −1 0 
Solution:
 −5   0   −5 + 0   −5 
   
a.  6  +  5=

 6 + 5  =  11 
   
 1   −2  1 + ( −2 )   −1 
       
b. Not possible.
[Explanation: addition process can only be performed by adding corresponding
elements for matrices of the same order.]
c.
d.
 10 2 
Answers: c. Not possible, d.  
 −12 4 
Likewise, subtraction of matrices is performed by subtracting corresponding

elements for matrices of the same order.

Example 5
 3   0  −5 
     3 2
1  5  b.  6  − 

a. − −   −1 0 
 2  2   1  
 
 7   −2 
   
 3  1  3  1 1
 3 3   3 2
c. 2 − 2 d.  2− 2 2
       
 −12 5 15   −1 0   −1 4   −2 0
Solution:
 3   0   3−0 
     1 5  3
1 5  
a.  −  −   =  − −  =
 2  2   2 2   −3 
9
 7   −2   7 − ( −2 )   
     
b. Not possible.
[Explanation: subtraction process can only be performed by subtracting
corresponding elements for matrices of the same order.]
c.
d.
3 
1
Answers: c. Not possible, d.  2
 
1 4 

Example 6
 12  7
   2 4  −3 3   
Given that A =  −2  , B =  , C =   and D =  −6  .
3  −1 5   6 7 8
   
a. A + B b. B − C
c. C − A d. D − A
Solution:
a. b.
c. d.
Answers:
a. Not possible.
 5 1
b.  
 −7 −2 
c. Not possible.
 −5 
d.  −4 
 
 5 
 

5.3. Operations with Matrices (Multiplication)
Scalar Multiplication
a b
The multiplication of a matrix, M =   , with a number, k , results in a matrix
c d 
where each element is multiplied by k as shown below.
 a b   ka kb 
k M =k  = 
 c d   kc kd 
The above is known as the scalar multiplication of matrix M by factor, k .
Example 7
 −6 12 
If A  4 −16  , evaluate the following.
=  
 8 20 

1
a. 2A b. A
4
Solution:
 −6 12   −12 24 
2A 2  4 =
a.=  
−16   8 −32 


8 20   16 40 

 3 
− 2 3
 
Answer: b.  1 −4 
 2 5
 
 

Multiplication of matrices
a b e f
Multiplying two matrices A =   and B =   gives AB .
c d  g h
 a b  e f   ae + bg af + bh 
AB =   = 
 c d  g h   ce + dg cf + dh 
Multiplication of two matrices is possible only if the number of columns in the first
matrix is the same as the number of rows in the second matrix.
A B = C
( m × n) ⋅ ( n × p ) (m × p)
Note:
- Not any two matrices can be multiplied.
- Matrix multiplication is not commutative, i.e. AB ≠ BA
Example 8
 −10 20 
5 1 7  
It is known that E =   and F =  −23 24  .
 −9 2 −6   16 −11
 
a. Evaluate EF.
b. Evaluate FE.
Solution:
 −10 20 
 5 1 7  
a. EF 
=   −23 24 
 −9 2 −6   
 16 −11
 5× ( −10 ) + 1× ( −23) + 7 ×16 5× 20 + 1× 24 + 7 × ( −11)   39 47 
= =
 ( −9 ) × ( −10 ) + 2 × ( −23) + ( −6 ) ×16 ( −9 ) × 20 + 2 × 24 + ( −6 ) × ( −11)   −52 −66 
b.
 −230 30 −190 
 
Answers: b.  −331 25 −305 
 179 −6 178 
 

Example 9
 −9 6 
 3 −2   
Given the matrices, C = ( −2 13 7 ) , D =   and
= E  3 −4  , evaluate the
5 6   2 1
 
following, if possible.
a. CE
b. EC
c. ED
d. DE
Solution:
 −9 6 
( −2 13 7 )  3 =
a. CE =

−4  ( 71 −57 )
 2 1
 
b. Not possible.
c.
d.
 3 54 
 
Answer: c.  −11 −30  d. not possible
 11 2 


Example 10
Given that TU = 5V , find u and v if

 7 
 5 −3 
 4 1  1 10u 
T=  U=  V = .
 4u + v −9  3 5   − 19 −17 

 5 
Solution:
1
Answers: u = − , v = 10
2

5.4. Special Matrices (Zero Matrix, Square Matrix and Identity Matrix)
A zero matrix, Z , is one in which all the entries or elements are “0”.
 0 0
For example,   is a 2x2 zero matrix and ( 0 0 0 ) is a 1x3 zero matrix.
 0 0
Thus adding or subtracting a zero matrix from any matrix, say A , does not affect the
matrix A . Hence, A ± Z = A
When a matrix A , is multiplied with a zero matrix, the result is a zero matrix. Hence,
AZ
= ZA= Z . The zero matrix functions in the same way when applied in addition
and multiplication of matrices.
Example 11
 −4 9 2 
Two matrices, C and E are such that C + E = Z . If C =   , find E .
 3 −6 1 
Solution:
 −4 9 2  0 0 0
C+E = Z ⇒  +E =  
 3 −6 1  0 0 0
[Explanation: A zero matrix, Z , is one in which all the entries or elements are 0.]
 0 0 0   −4 9 2   4 −9 −2 
E= − = 
 0 0 0   3 −6 1   −3 6 −1 

Example 12
 −3 5   a 
If A =   and G =   and AG = Z , find a.
 6 −10   a − 4
Solution:
Answers: 10
A square matrix, is one in which there is equal number of row(s) and column(s).
Hence if a square matrix, S , has m rows, it will have m columns.
The order of a square matrix, S will be m × m .
Example 13
Which of the following matrices is a square matrix?

 −4 3 
4 1   
A=  , B =  9 −6 
 8 −9   2 1
 
Solution:
A is a square matrix.
[Explanation: The order of A is 2 × 2 . A has equal number of rows and columns, (i.e.
two rows and two columns). So A is a square matrix.]
B is not a square matrix.
[Explanation: The order of B is 3 × 2 . B has unequal number of rows and columns.

So B is not a square matrix.]

Example 14
Which of the following matrices is a square matrix?

 4 −0.25 2 
 −4 9 2     1
C= ,D =  7 3 0.5  , E =  − 
 3 −6 1  11 1 −2 
 9

Solution:
Answers: D and E
An identity matrix, I , is a square matrix such that elements along the main
diagonal (principal diagonal) sloping downwards are “1” and all other elements are
“0”.
1 0
An identity matrix I of order 2 × 2 is   and identity matrix I of order 3 × 3 is
0 1
1 0 0
 
 0 1 0  and so on.
0 0 1
 
When a matrix, say A is multiplied an identity matrix, I , the matrix remains

unchanged (i.e. AI
= IA = A ).

Example 15
 −3 4 
C and D are two matrices such that CI = D , C =   and
 7 −10 
 a − 2b 2a + b 
D= .
 7 −10 
a. Find a and b.
b. State I .
c. Hence, find C − I .
Solution:
a. Given CI = D ,
since CI = C ⇒ C = D
 −3 4   a − 2b 2a + b 
∴ =  
 7 −10   7 −10 
−3 = a − 2b
4 2a + b
=
∴ a= 1, b= 2
1 0
b. I =  
0 1
[Explanation: CI = D which is a 2 × 2 matrix. Hence, if C is a 2 × 2 matrix then I
must be a 2 × 2 matrix)]
 −3 4   1 0   −4 4 
c. C − I =  −  = 
 7 −10   0 1   7 −11

Example 16
Two matrices, C and E are such that C + E = Z .
 1
 4 9 − 
a. If C = 2 , find E .
 −3 6 1 
 
b. State I for which CI = C .
Solution:
a.
b.
 1 1 0 0
−4 −9  
Answers: a. E =  2  b. I =  0 1 0 
  0 0 1
 3 −6 −1  

Example 17
2 21 16   −5 25 
Given A =  1  and B =  2 −2b  .
 a −1
2  
2   −2 10 
 
a. If AB = Z , find the value(s) of a and b . Hence, write down the matrix, B .

b. If A + C = Z , find C .
c. Hence, find BC .
d. State I for which IB = B .
Solution:
Answers:
 5 395 
− 2 105 
 −5 25  4 1 0 0
 −2 −21 −16   
1    c.  1 79   
a. a = ± , b = 5 ,  2 −10  b.  1 1 − −42 d.  0 1 0 
2 − − 1   2 
 −2 10   2 4    0 0 1
  79  
 −1 42 
 2 

5.5. Word Problems Involving Matrices

Example 18
A company stores two different kinds of items, Item A and Item B in two stores, Store
1 and Store 2. The goods are sold daily. D 1 and D 2 records the stock level of the
goods at the end of Day 1 and Day 2 respectively.
item A item B item A item B

Store 1  76 62  Store 1  69 51 
   
Store 2 100 75  Store 2  90 60 
D1 D2
a. Find a matrix, T
= D1 − D2 . Interpret what T means.
The selling prices of Item A and Item B are $5 and $7.50 respectively. This
 5 
information is represented by matrix C =   .
 7.5 
b. Find TC and interpret what it means.

c. Matrix, E = (1 1) . Find ETC and interpret what it means.
Solution:
Answer:
117.5 
b.   . The earnings or revenue for each store.
162.5 
c. ( 280 ) . The combined earnings or revenue.

Example 19
A new type of beverage is available for sale in three different flavours, A, B and C.
The beverage is packed in two different sizes, Regular and Large.
 40 35 59 
The sales on a particular day is represented as X =  .
 15 90 79 
a. It is known that the price of a Regular and Large pack are $2.50 and $3.50
respectively. Represent the sales price by a 1× 2 matrix, T .
b. Hence, find TX and interpret what it represents.
9
c. In a recent promotion, all drinks are on sale at a 10% discount. Find TX . Write
10
9
an interpretation of TX .
10
1
 
d. Given that E = 1 , find TXE and interpret what it means.
1
 
Solution:

Answer:
a. ( 2.5 3.5)
b. (152.5 402.5 424 ) . The earnings or revenue for each flavour of
the beverage.
c. (137.25 362.25 381.6 ) . The earnings or revenue for each
flavour of the beverage after the 10% discount.
d. ( 979 ) . The combined earnings or revenue for the new beverage.

Example 20
A set meal consists of one serving of three dishes, A, B and C. The weight of
carbohydrates, protein and fat of each serving of three dishes is represented in the
table below.
Dish Carbohydrate Protein Fat

(grams) (grams) (grams)
A 200 8 2
B 100 20 1
C 500 7 10
a. Represent the above information by a matrix, N .

b. A matrix, E is given as (1 1 1) . Find EN and interpret what it means.
1
 
c. Another matrix, T is given as 1 . Find ENT and interpret what it means.
1
 
Solution:
Answers:
 200 8 2 
a.  100 20 1 
 
 500 7 10 
 
b. ( 800 35 13) . The weight of carbohydrate,
protein and fat for one set meal.
c. ( 848 ) . The weight of one set meal.

Tutorial 5 Matrices
 
 −17 13 
 1 −9 4   −17 15 −8   
A= , B= , C = −1 −14 
 −16 5 12   14 19 −15   5
 −9 − 
 4
 10 18 8 
   −15 −5   −24t u + 2 
D=
 −8 18 −2  , E= , F= 
 14 −4 −13   29 2   30 − v 2 + s 
 
For Questions 1 to 5, use the above information and find the following, if possible.
1a. A + 2B b. A – C
2a. AC b. AE
1 1
3a. AD b. DA
3 3
4a. D−I b. E + I
5. Find the values s, t, u and v if
a. E= F b. E − I =F
 3
 7
6. Given that 7+P =
Z , state Z where Z is a zero matrix. Find P .
 
14 1 
 
 −2 5 
   15 7.5 5 
7. If  8 −20   2 =Z where Z is a zero matrix, write down the matrix Z.
  a − a 3 2 
5
1 − 
 2
Hence, or otherwise, find the value(s) of a.

   
 4 −35   a+b −35 
   
8. If  −10 −5 =I  −10 3a − b + 11 where I is an identity matrix, state I .
 5   2 5 
 −15   4c + 20c + 10 
 2   2 
Hence, or otherwise, find the value(s) of a, b and c.
 
 4 −35 
 
9. If  −10 −5  + 5D =
Z where Z is a zero matrix, find D .
 5 
 −15 
 2 
10. Three matrices, A , B and C are such that A + Z = B and C= A + B where Z is a

zero matrix. Find the value of k for which B = kC .
11. Alvin owns two shops selling electronic gadgets. The matrices below, D1 and D2 ,
record the sales of two particular gadgets, A and B, for two days, Day 1 and Day
2 respectively.
gadget A gadget B gadget A gadget B

shop 1 12 6 shop 1  8 7
   
shop 2  2 5 shop 2 10 50 
D1 D2
= D1 + D2 . Intepret what T means.

a. Find a matrix, T
b. The selling price of gadget A and gadget B is $150 and $ 225 respectively.
Represent this information by a 2 × 1 matrix C .
c. If Alvin decides to give a 25% discount, the revenue earned for each shop can
be represented by the matrix, kTC . State the value of k . Hence find kTC .
d. Using the matrix R = (1 1) , find the combined sales revenue for all the shops
by evaluating RTC .

12. A famous food stall sells its signature dishes, Penang laksa and Singapore laksa
at two outlets. The sales records for the outlets on a particular day are in the
table below.
Penang laksa Singapore laksa

outlet 1 95 142
outlet 2 104 75
Number of bowls of laksa sold
a. Represent the sales records by a matrix, N .

b. The production cost for a bowl of Penang laksa and Singapore laksa is $1.25
and $1.35 respectively. Represent this information price by a 2 × 1 matrix, T .
c. Find NT and interpret what it means.
d. As a result of labour shortage, there is a 10% increase in production cost.
With a suitable value of k or otherwise, find the product cost of each outlet
using kNT .
e. Using a suitable 1× 2 matrix, R , find the total product cost by evaluating RNT .
13. Three variants, Model A, Model B and Model C of a particular brand of tablet are
stored in two locations as recorded in the table below.
Location 1 Location 2
Model A 231 196
Model B 84 126
Model C 133 245
Stock level of tablet
a. Represent the information in the above table by a matrix, S .

b. Using a suitable 2 × 1 matrix, R , find the total stock level of each model using
SR .
6
c. The company decides to hold less stock for all items. Evaluate SR and
7
interpret what it means.
d. Each unit of Model A, Model B and Model C costs $250, $275 and $325
respectively. Represent this information using a suitable 1× 3 matrix, H .
e. Evaluate HSR and interpret what it means.

Tutorial 5 Answers
1)
 −33 21 −12 
a)   b) Not possible
 12 43 −18 
2)
 −44 134 
 159 −293 
3)
 160 26 
 46 −
3
−
3 
 − 32 −82 −98 

 3 
4)
 9 18 8 
 −14 −5 
a)  −8 17 −2 
 b)  
 14 −4 −14   29 3 
 
5)
5
a) t = , u=
−7, v =
1, s =
0
8
2
b) t = , u=
−7, v =
1, s =
−1
3
 3
0 0  −7 − 
6) Z =   P= 7
0 0  
 −14 −1 
0 0 0
 
7) Z =  0 0 0  𝑎𝑎 = −2 or 3
0 0 0
 
1 0 5
8) I =   𝑎𝑎 = −3, 𝑏𝑏 = 7, 𝑐𝑐 = − 2
0 1
 4 
− 5 7 
 
9) D =  2 1 
 1
 3 − 
 2
1
10) k=
2

11)
 20 13 
a) T =  
 12 55 
T represents the total sales of each gadgets by both shops for the two days.
 150 
b) C =  
 225 
75 3  4443.75 
k =
c) =  
100 4 10631.25 
d) $20,100
12)
 95 142 
a) N =  
104 75 
1.25 
b) T =  
1.35 
 310.45 
c) NT =   The production cost of each outlet.
 231.25 
110 11  341.50 
k
d) = =  
100 10  254.38 
e) R = (1 1) RNT = ( 541.7 )
13)
 231 196 
 
a) S =  84 126 
 133 245 
 
 427 
 1  
b) R =   SR =  210 
 1  378 
 
 366 
6   6
c) SR =  180  The matrix shows of the original stock level.
7  324  7
 
d) H = ( 250 275 325 )
e) HSR = ( 287350 ) The total cost of the stock.

Chapter 6 Linear Inequalities
6.1 Definitions
An inequality is a mathematical statement that defines how one quantity differs from
another quantity.
For examples:
a. 3 < 9 , means three is less than nine.
b. x > 11 , means x is greater than eleven.
c. y < x + 1 , means y is less than x plus one.
d. x ≤ 3 , means x is less than or equal to 3.
e. y ≥ 7 , means y is greater than or equal to 7.
The inequality symbols “ > ” and “ < ” define the sense of the inequality.
A number line provides an effective means for visualizing such an inequality. On a

number line, the smaller number in an inequality is always to the left of the larger
number, as shown below:
The solution of an inequality in one variable consists of all real values of the variable
that make the inequality a true statement.
For example,
a. Solve the inequality: x + 3 ≥ 4
The solution is x ≥ 1 ,
i.e. the solution is any real number greater than or equal to 1.
[Note: the solid dot “ • ” indicates that the end point x = 1 is included in the
solution set.]
b. Solve the inequality: x − 2 < 1
The solution is x < 3 ,

i.e. the solution is any real number less than 3.
[Note: the “open circle” or “ ” indicates that the end point x = 3 is excluded in the
solution set.]

6.2 Solving Linear Inequalities
A linear inequality is an inequality which involves a linear function. For example,

3 x + 1 > −5 . The process of solving a linear inequality in one variable is very much
like the process of solving a linear equation in one variable.
Properties of Inequalities:
1. Addition and Subtraction If a > b then
a+c >b+c
and a−c >b−c
2. Multiplication and Division If a > b and k > 0 , then
by positive number ka > kb
a b
and >
k k
3. Multiplication and Division If a > b and m < 0 , then
By negative number ma < mb
a b
and <
m m
Note: change in the sense of inequality
Example 1
Solve the inequality: 5 x − 4 < 2 x + 8 . Show the solution set on a number line.
Solution:
5x − 4 < 2x + 8
5x − 2x < 8 + 4 Group all the x terms on one side

and all the constants on the other
side
3 x < 12
3 x 12 Divide both sides by 3

<
3 3
x<4
The solution is any real number less than 4.

Example 2
Solve the inequality: 2 x − 4 ≤ 7 x + 6 . Show the solution set on a number line.
Solution:
Answer: Any real number greater than or equal to –2.
Example 3
Solve each inequality and show the solution set on a number line.
1
a. ( 4 x + 1) ≥ x + 6
2
7x + 6
b. 3 x − 2 ≤
3
2x −1 x + 4
c. >
7 2
d. 4( x − 1) − 3(2 x + 5) < 0
Solution:

Answers:
11
a. x ≥
2
b. x ≤ 6
c. x < −10
19
d. x > −
2

6.3 Solving Compound Inequalities
When a statement consists of two or more inequalities connected by either the word
“or” or the word “and”, it is known as a compound inequality.
Example 4
For the compound inequality:
x >1 or x < −2
The solution consists of all real numbers less than −2 or greater than 1 .
Example 5
For the compound inequality:
x ≤1 and x ≥ −2
The solution consists of all real numbers between −2 and 1 , both inclusive.

Example 6
Solve the inequality: −1 ≤ 3 x − 1 < 5 . Show the solution set on a number line.
Solution:
To solve: −1 ≤ 3 x − 1 < 5
− 1 ≤ 3x − 1 and 3x − 1 < 5
0 ≤ 3x and 3x < 6
0≤ x and x<2
The overlapping interval is between 0 and 2 , so the solution is 0 ≤ x < 2 .
The solution consists of all real numbers between 0 and 2 , both inclusive.

Example 7
Solve the inequality: x + 5 ≤ 7 ≤ 2 x − 1
Solution:
To solve: x + 5 ≤ 7 ≤ 2x −1
x+5≤ 7 and 7 ≤ 2x −1
x≤2 and 8 ≤ 2x
x≤2 and 4≤ x
Let’s find the solution on the number line:
There is no overlapping interval, so there is no solution.
Example 8
Solve each inequality and show the solution set on a number line:
a. − 3 < 2 x − 1 < x + 3
b. 1 − 2 x ≤ 4 − x ≤ 2 x + 3
Solution:
Answers:
a. − 1 < x < 4
1
b. x ≥
3

Example 9
Daisy wants to put up her used car for sale in a newspaper advertisement. The
Paper charges $4.20 plus $0.05 per word. The News charges $3.50 plus $0.07 per
word. Find the length of the advertisement Daisy has to come up with, such that it
costs less to advertise it in The News.
Solution:
Answer: Less than 35 words

Tutorial 6 Linear Inequalities
1. Solve each inequality and show the solution set on a number line.
a. 3 x − 4 < 0
b. 2 x + 5 ≥ −3
c. 4 − 4 x < −3
d. 3 x − 2 ≤ 2( x + 3)
e. x − 4 > 3( x + 4)
1
f. x + 2 ≥ 3x
2
g. 3 x − 1 ≤ 2 − ( x + 1)
h. 3 − ( x − 1) < 2 x + 5
2. Solve the following inequalities and show their solution sets on number lines.
a. 7 ≤ 3 x + 1 < 10
b. 7 < 1 − 2 x < 13
c. 2 x < x + 3 < 5 x − 1
d. 2 x + 1 < 5 − x ≤ 3 x
e. 3 x + 1 < 13 ≤ 2 x − 1
f. 2 x − 1 ≤ 9 ≤ 5 x − 1
3x + 2
3. Given that < 5( x + 3) , find the smallest possible value of x satisfying the
2
inequality if x is an integer.
4. Steven is considering two similar jobs, each of which is estimated to take n hours
to complete. Job A pays $360 plus $12 per hour, and job B pays $30 per hour.
For what values of n will Steven make more money at job B?

Tutorial 6 Answers
1)
4
a) 𝑥𝑥 < 3
b) 𝑥𝑥 ≥ −4
7
c) 𝑥𝑥 > 4
d) 𝑥𝑥 ≤ 8
e) 𝑥𝑥 < −8
4
f) 𝑥𝑥 ≤ 5
1
g) 𝑥𝑥 ≤ 2
1
h) 𝑥𝑥 > − 3
2)
a) 2 ≤ 𝑥𝑥 < 3
b) −6 < 𝑥𝑥 < −3
c) 1 < 𝑥𝑥 < 3
5 4
d) 4
≤ 𝑥𝑥 < 3
e) No Solution
f) 2 ≤ 𝑥𝑥 ≤ 5
3) −3
4) 𝑛𝑛 > 20 hours

Chapter 7 Mathematics for Daily Life
Take a look at the items in the diagram below.
Discuss with your classmates how mathematics is being used in each of the items
shown.
The above activity has shown us how mathematics is widely used in our day to day
living.
In this chapter, we will look at some practical uses of mathematics in our daily life
such as:
• Ratio and proportion;
• Percentages;
• Computation of interest.

7.1. The use of ratio and proportion
7.1.1. Ratio
A ratio is a relationship between quantities.

a
It is often expressed in the form, a : b or .
b
Some real life instances where ratio is used are allocation of resources, combining
ingredients in cooking and in architecture designs.
Example 1
A syrup drink is made by mixing water and syrup in the ratio of 9 :1 .

Find
a. the amount of water (in l) needed if 200 ml of syrup is used.
b. the total amount of the syrup drink.
Solution:
a. Ratio of water to syrup is 9 :1 ⇒ water has 9 parts, syrup has 1 part.

1 part = 200 ml ⇒ water (which has 9 parts) = 9 × 200 =1800 ml
amount of water = 1.8 l.
b. Total amount of syrup drink = 1800 + 200 = 2000 ml or 2 l.
Example 2
The ratio of labour cost to material cost in a business is 2.5: 0.7.

a. Express the ratio of material cost to labour cost in the simplest possible form.
b. Find the material cost if the combined sum of both costs is $9600
Solution:
Answer: a. 7 : 25 b. $2100

Example 3
John put a sum of money into two investment plans, Plan A and B in the ratio of
0.3 :1.5 .
a. Express the ratio of investment plan A to plan B in the simplest possible form.
b. If the money invested into plan B is $1250, what is the amount of money John
invested in plan A?
Solution:
Answers:
a. 1: 5
b. $250
7.1.2. Proportion
When two different quantities, x and y , changes in a way such that the ratio of their
quantities remains the same, the two quantities are said to be proportional to each
other.
For instance, if c represents charge for a badminton court, and h represents the
usage time (in hours). In the table below, c and h are proportional to each other.
h (in hours) 0 1 3 4.5

c (in $) 0 7 21 31.5
Direct Proportion
When two quantities, x and y , changes in a way such that as x increases, y also
increases (). The two quantities are said to be directly proportional to each other.
The expression for the relationship between the two quantities that are directly
proportional is written as:
y∝x or y = kx
where k is the constant of proportionality

Example 4
The distance travelled by a car, d (in km) is directly proportional to the petrol used,
v (in litres). If 2 litres of petrol is used up for a distance of 28 km, find
a. the distance travelled for 6 l of petrol used.
b. the petrol used for 31.5 km of distance travelled.
Solution:
d ∝v
a. 2 l → 28 km or
⇒ d= kv
28= k ⋅ 2
1 l → 14 km
k = 14
∴ d= 14 v
∴ 6 l → 14 × 6 =84 km
when v = 6 l , d = 14 × 6 = 84 km
the distance travelled is 84 km
d = 14 v
b. 28 km → 2 l or
when d= 31.5 km, 31.5= 14 × v
2
1 km → l v = 2.25 l
28
2
31.5 km → × 31.5 =
2.25 l ∴ the volume of petrol used is 2.25 l
28
Example 5
It takes 4 baking chefs to bake 240 loaves of bread for a hotel every morning.
a. Express the number of loaves of bread baked, L , in terms of the number of
chefs, c .
b. Hence, or otherwise, calculate the number of chefs needed to bake 420 loaves
of bread.
Solution:
a. L = kc .
(Explanation: The number of loaves of bread made is directly proportional to the
number of chefs, c . Hence L ∝ c or L = kc .)
since L = 240 when c = 4 , 240 = k ( 4 )
k = 60
∴L = 60c
b. L = 420 , ∴ 420 =
60c
c=7
∴ Number of chefs need = 7

Example 6
It takes 8 gardeners to trim 50 m2 of garden.

a. Express the garden area to be trimmed, A in terms of the number of gardeners,
G needed.
b. Find the number of gardeners needed to trim a garden of 105 m2.
Solution:
Answers:
a. A = 6.25G
b. G = 17
Inverse Proportion
When two quantities, x and y , changes in a way such that as x increase, y

decreases, the two quantities are said to be inversely proportional to each other.
The expression for the relationship between the two quantities that are inversely
1 k
proportional is written as y ∝ or y = .
x x
Example 7
It takes 4 hours for 6 chefs to prepare a buffet dinner for a group of hotel diners.
a. Find the time needed (in hours and minutes) if there are 18 chefs.
b. Find the number of chefs required if the dinner has to be ready in 2 hours.
Solution:
k
a. 6 chefs → 4 hours alternatively, use C =
T
1 chef → 24 hours
24 4 1
18 chef → = = 1 hours.
18 3 3
Time needed is 1 hour and 20 minutes.
b. 4 hours → 6 chefs.
1 hour → 24 chefs.
2 hours → 12 chefs.
Number of chefs required = 12

Example 8
7 men can complete painting a house in 8 hours.
a. Express, m number of men, in terms of h hours taken to paint a house.
b. Find the number of men needed if the painting should be completed in 2 hours.
Solution:
k
a. m = .
h
(Explanation: m , the number of men is inversely proportional to h , the hours
1 k
taken. Hence m ∝ or m = .)
h h
Given m = 7 when h = 8 ,
k
7=
8
k = 56
56
∴m =
h
56
b. When h = 2 , ∴ m = = 28
2
∴ 28 men are needed.
Example 9
A farmer found that his stack of hay can feed 9 of his cows for 8 days.
a. Express the number of cows, c , in terms of the number of days d .
b. If he has 36 cows, how long can his stack of hay last?
Solution:
Answer:
72
a. c = , b. 2 days
d

Proportion relating more than two quantities
It is common that a quantity, z , is related to more than one quantity.
Example 10
A farmer found that a 30 kg stack of hay can feed 9 cows for 8 days.
a. Express the number of cows, c in terms of the weight of the stack of hay, w (in
kg) and the number of days, d .
b. Find out how much hay he needs to feed 36 cows for a week.
Solution:
w
a. c = k
d
1 w w
(Explanation: c ∝ and c ∝ w . Combining both, c ∝ ⇒ c=
k .)
d d d
Given c = 9 , w = 30 , d = 8 ,
30 72 12
9=k =k =
8 ⇒ 30 5
12 w
∴c =
5d
12 w
b. c = 36 , d = 7 , ∴ 36 =
5(7)
w = 105 kg
∴105 kg of hay is needed to feed 36 cows for a week.
Example 11
A group of 4 pastry chefs need 2 hours to bake 160 premium croissants.
a. Express the number of croissants baked, c , in terms of the number of pastry
chefs, p ,and time (in hours), h .
b. Hence, or otherwise, find the time taken (in hours) for 5 chefs to bake 380
croissants.
Solution:
a.
b.
Answer: a. c = 20 ph b. 3.8 hours

Example 12
To produce a row of 6 shophouses in a construction project, 20 men working for 8

hours every day for 30 days is needed.
After 20 days later, the company was issued a new deadline by the authority to
complete the project in 25 days. How many more men must the company hire to
meet this new deadline?
Solution:
Answer: 20 more men

7.1.3. Ratio of similar figures
Similar figures are figures that have exactly the same shape but different sizes. One
of the figures or diagrams is an enlarged or a scaled down version of the other.
In the diagram below, Figure A and Figure B have exactly the same shape but
Figure B is an enlarged version of Figure A. We may also say Figure A is a scaled
down version of Figure B.
If two figures are similar, the ratio of corresponding sides of similar figures is the
l A d A hA
same such that = = = k where k is a constant.
lB d B hB
2
A l 
And the ratio of the area of the similar figures is such that A =  A  .
AB  lB 
3
V l 
The ratio of the volume of the similar figures is such that A =  A  .
VB  lB 
Example 13
An elastic triangular sheet is stretched such that the shape is preserved as shown
below.
Find the value of h and the area of the stretched triangle.

Solution:
2.5 2 4.5
= ⇒ h =2× = 3.6 cm
4.5 h 2.5
(Explanation: For similar figures, ratio of corresponding sides is the same such that
l A d A hA
= = = k)
lB d B hB
1
Area of smaller un-stretched triangle is ( 2.5 )( 2 ) = 2.5 cm2.
2
2 2
 2.5  2.5  4.5 
  = ⇒ A = 2.5 ×   = 8.1 cm
2
 4.5  A  2.5 
2
l  A
(Explanation: For similar figures, ratio of areas is the same such that  A  = A .)
 lB  AB
Example 14
The figure below shows a sitting area in the shape of a frustum.
a. Find the base radius of the frustum, r .
b. Hence, or otherwise, find the volume of the
frustum.
(You may leave your answers in terms of π .)
Solution:
2
1296π  36  1296  36 
a. =  ⇒ = 
9216π  r  9216  r 
9  36 
= 
64  r 
r = 96 cm
(Explanation: We can visualize the situation as

having two similar cones as shown below.)
b. Let the height of small cone be h .

h 3
= ⇒h= 27
h + 45 8
1 1
π ( 36 ) ( h ) π=( 36 ) ( 27 ) 11664π cm3
2 2
=
Volume of the small cone =
3 3
1 1
π ( 96 ) ( h=
+ 45 ) π ( 96 ) ( 27=
+ 45 ) 221184π cm3
2 2
Volume of the larger =
cone
3 3
Volume of the frustum
= 221184π − 11664π = 209520π cm3

Example 15
A container, L has a hidden compartment, S , similar in shape as shown in the figure

below. Find the base area, AS (in cm2 ) of the hidden compartment.
Solution:
Answer: AS = 900 cm2

Maps and Map Scales
One of the applications of similar figures is in maps where geographical features are
represented as similar (but scaled down) items on a chart for navigation purpose
(see an instance of map in the diagram below).
The scale, as shown on the top left hand corner of the above diagram, is the ratio
that compares the distance on the map, l A to the actual distance on the ground, lB .
For instance, a scale of 1:100000 or 1 cm represents 1000 m tells us that 1 cm on

the map corresponds to 1000 m (or 1 km) on the ground.
lA
Hence, the concepts of comparing distances/ lengths, =k
lB
2
A l 
and areas of similar figures, A =  A  remain applicable.
AB  lB 
Example 16
A map is drawn to a scale of 1: 30000 . Find
a. the distance on the ground (in km) that is represented by a length of 12.8 cm,
b. the area on the map (in cm2) that represents an area of 5000 m2.
Solution:
a. 1: 30000 ⇒ 1 cm → 30000 cm (300 m)

∴12.8 cm → 12.8 × 300 m = 3840 m = 3.84 km
b. 1:30000 ⇒ 1 cm : 30 000 cm (300 m)

(1 cm)2 : (300 m)2
or 1 cm2 : 90 000 m2
90 000 m2 is represented by 1 cm2.

1
5000 m2 is represented by × 5000 cm2 =0.056 cm2 .
90000

Example 17
On a particular map, 1 cm represents 500 m. Find

a. the length on the map that represents a distance of 4.2 km,
b. the actual area (in km2) that is represented by an area of 6.25 cm2.
Solution:
a.
b.
Answer: a. 8.4 cm b. 1.56 km2
Example 18
On a map, the scale used is 1 : 25000. Find
a. the distance on the ground (in m) that is represented by a length of 7.5 cm,
b. the area on the map (in cm2) that is represents an area of 5.75 km2.
Solution:
Answers:
a. 1875 m b. 92 cm2
b.

7.2. Percentages
The use of percentage is widespread in our lives such as computing:

• Profit, Loss and Discounts;
• Interest Rates and
• Purchase by Instalments.
7.2.1. Profits, Loss and Discount
In a transaction, the selling price set by the seller may be higher or lower than the
cost he/ she had used in acquiring or producing the item or service (cost price).
If the selling price is higher than the cost price, a profit is made.
If the selling price is lower than the cost price, a loss is made.
It is common that percentage profit and percentage loss are calculated based on the
cost price.
profit
% profit = ×100%
cost price
Example 19
A man imports a vase for $25.
a. He sells it for $27. Express his profit in percentage.
b. If the profit is 3.5% instead, find the selling price.
Solution:
a. Profit (in quantum) = $27 − $25 = $2
2
Profit (in percentage) = ×100% = 8%
25
b. Profit is 3.5% of $25

3.5
= × $25
100
= $0.875
Selling Price =
$25 + $0.875 =
$25.875

Example 20
A man made a 15% profit by selling a digital watch for $19.55.
a. Find the cost price of the digital watch.
b. Hence, or otherwise, find his percentage profit if the selling price of the digital
watch is now $20.74.
Solution:
a.
b.
Answers:
a. $17
b. 22%
Example 21
A watch shop holds a sale. All items are sold at a 20% discount during the sale.
a. Find the original selling price if the selling price of an item is $180 after discount.
b. On the last three days of the sale, a further 10% discount is offered. Find the cost
price of the item if the shop can still make an 8% profit.
Solution:
Answers:
a. $225
b. $150

7.2.2. Interest and Interest Rates
Another application of percentage is the calculation of Interest.
Interest is charged by a lender (or creditor) for the amount loaned out.
Consider a sum of money, say $300 . If this sum of money is deposited into the
bank, the bank will use the money for its financial purpose(s), it will then pay the
depositor an interest.
If the interest rate is 2% per annum (per year), it means that at the end of the year,
2
the bank will pay ( $300 ) = $6 in addition to the $300 that belongs to the depositor.
100
The depositor is then paid $306 ($300 is the original sum also known as the
principal sum while $6 is the interest earned by the depositor for allowing the bank
to use his/ her money.)
There are two types of interest: Simple Interest and Compound Interest.
Simple Interest
Consider a principal sum of $P and the interest rate is R % per annum for a bank.
If the depositor was to leave a sum of money in the bank for T years. Then the bank
could pay the same amount of interest at every year regularly for T years based
on the principal sum as shown below. This is known as simple interest.
The regular interval of paying out interest is known as period. In this instance,
every period is a single year.
R RP
The interest earned for one year (period) is ( P) =
100 100
RPT
The total interest earned for T years is
100
PRT
Hence, I ( interest ) = .
100

Example 22
Amy deposited $10000 into a bank. If the bank pays simple interest, find
a. the interest earned for 3 years for an interest rate 3.5% per annum;
b. the amount that Amy has at the end of 18 months if the interest rate is 2.5% per
annum;
c. the interest rate if the amount that Amy has at the end of 27 months is $10900.
Solution:
a. Given that P = 10000 , T = 3 and R = 3.5 .
10000 × 3 × 3.5
= I = 1050 .
100
Interest earned after 3 years = $1050 .
b. Given that P = 10000 , T = 1.5 (Note: 18 months is 1.5 years) and R = 2.5 .
10000 ×1.5 × 2.5
= I = 375 .
100
Amount that Amy has at the end of 18 months= $10000 + $375= $10375 .
c.
Answer:
c. 4%

Compound Interest
Another way in which the interest could be paid is that the interest for every
subsequent period is calculated based on the amount accumulated.
 R 
Hence, the total amount after the first period is 1 + P .
 100 
2
 R   R    R 
The total amount after the second period is 1 +   1 + P =
   1 +  P as
 100   100    100 
shown below.
R   R  
2

Following through, the total amount after the third period is 1 +   1 +  P
 100   100  
3
 R 
= 1 +  P
 100 
R  
T −1
 R    R 
T
And the total amount after T period is 1 +   1 +  P =

  1 +  P
 100   100    100 
This is known as compound interest.

Example 23
Alex deposited $5000 into a bank. If the bank pays compound interest at an interest
rate of 2.4% per annum, find
a. the amount that Alex have at the end of 3 years if the interest is compounded
annually;
b. the interest earned at the end of 3 years if the interest is compounded every half-
yearly;
Solution:
a. Given P = 5000
If the interest is compounded annually, for 3 years, T = 3 and R = 2.4 .
3
 2.4 
Total amount= 1 +  ( 5000 ) = $5368.71
 100 
b. Given P = 5000
If the interest is compounded every half-yearly, for 3 years, T = 6 and
2.4
=R = 1.2 .
2
6
 1.2 
Total amount= 1 +  ( 5000 ) = $5370.97
 100 
Interest earned = $5370.97 - $5000 = $370.97

Example 24
Denise borrowed a sum of $12000 from a bank. If the interest rate for the loan is
3.6% per annum, find
a. the interest she has to pay if simple interest is charged on the loan and the final
sum is repayable after 18 months;
b. the amount she has to repay if simple interest is charged on the loan and the final
sum is repayable after 3 years;
c. the amount she has to repay if interest is compounded every 6 months and the
final sum is repayable after 2 years and
d. the interest she has to pay if interest is compounded every 8 months and the final
sum is repayable after 24 months.
Solution:
Answers:
a. $648
b. $13296
c. $12887.61
d. $884.90

Purchase by Instalment
Instalments refer to a way of purchasing without paying in full upfront.
The buyer can pay a down payment or deposit first while the remaining amount
can be repaid later over a period of time in instalments.
As this form of delayed payment is considered a debt, the company can charge the
buyer an interest on the remaining unpaid amount. (see diagram below).
Total instalments, M = Loan amount + interest ( I ) charged on the loan amount
Hence total cost, T = Deposit (or down payment) D + Total instalments M
Interest, I is calculated based on the loan amount using simple interest for the
duration of the repayment period.
Example 25
The selling price of an audio system is $500. It can be bought with a 10% down
payment and 36 monthly instalments of $17.
Find:
a. the total interest charged;
b. the simple interest rate per annum.
Solution:
90
a. With 10% down payment, total loan amount = ( 500 ) = $450
100
Total amount of instalments paid =17 × 36 = $612
Amount of interest charged, I = 612 − 450 = $162
PRT
b. I = where Principal = Loan amount
100
162 =
( 450 )( R )( 3)
100
R = 12%
Take note that when purchasing by instalments, the buyer will only have ownership
of his or her purchase after all the instalments are fully paid up.

Purchasing by instalments is also known as Hire Purchase.
Example 26
John bought a piano using hire purchase.
He has to pay a deposit of 15% and 24 monthly instalments of $446.25.
If the total interest paid by John is $3060, find
a. the loan amount,
b. the per annum simple interest rate,
c. the deposit made by John.
Solution:
Answers:
a. $7650
b. 20%
c. $1350

Example 27
Jenny bought a fridge using hire purchase.
The cash price of a fridge is $4800 but she paid a total of $6330 including a down
payment of $720 and 30 monthly instalments where the per annum simple interest
rate is 15%.
a. Express the down payment as a percentage of the cash price.
b. Find the amount of each monthly instalment.
Solution:
Answers:
a. 15%
b. $187

Tutorial 7 Mathematics for Daily Life
1. A box contains red, black and blue pens in the ratio of 72: 36: 24 respectively.
a. Express the above ratio in the simplest possible form.
b. If there are 54 red pens, how many blue pens are there?
c. State the ratio of the number of black pens to the number of red pens in both
boxes in the simplest possible form.
2. A pasta sauce is made by mixing three types of ingredients, A, B and C together

such that the proportion of A to B is 5:7 while the proportion of C to B is 1: 3.
a. Find the ratio of A to B to C in the simplest possible form.
b. Hence find the amount of sauce (in ml) if 168 ml of ingredient B is used for the
sauce.
3.
5 25
a. Given that y is directly proportional to x and y = when x = , express y
2 34
in terms of x .
5
b. Given that y is inversely proportional to x and y = 4 when x = , express
12
y in terms of x .
c. An excavation team can produce a tunnel 750 m in length in 3 days. Express
the length of tunnel that can be produced, l in terms of the number of days, d .
d. 8 engineers can set up a well in 90 minutes. Express the time taken to set up
the well (in hours), t in terms of the number of engineers, E .
4. Express y in terms of x and w if

a. y is directly proportional to x but inversely proportional to w and y = 5 when
x = 60 , w = 45 ;
b. y is directly proportional to square of x but inversely proportional to w and
y = 630 when x = 21 , w = 2 .
c. y is directly proportional to x but inversely proportional to the square root of
w and y = 15 when x = 75 , w = 169 .
5. 5 survivors were trapped on an island with a container of food. The food could
last the survivors 60 days. When the food is 40 % depleted, another 15 survivors
came and joined them. How many more days could the food lasts?

6. Two similar bottles are shown below, find hS .
7. For the two similar containers shown below, find

a. the height, hL , of the larger container;
b. the volume, VS , of the smaller container.
8. A star-shaped rug as shown below has two similarly shaped stars cut out. Find
the area of rug if its area before the two cut outs was 3200 cm2.

9. The top part of a pyramid sand sculpture is removed as seen in the figure below.
Find the original volume of the sand sculpture if l1 : l2 = 5 : 7 and the remaining
volume of sand is 937.5 cm3.
10. A star-shaped rug as shown below has a similarly shaped star cut out. Find the
ratio of the area of rug to the area of the cutout.
11. Find
a. the distance on the ground (in m) that is represented by a length of 5.7 cm on
the map if the map scale is 1: 2500 .
b. the actual area (in km2) that is represented by an area of 4 cm2 if 1 cm on the
map represents 750 m.
c. the length on the map that represents a distance of 3.25 km on the ground if 4
cm on the map represent 500 m.
d. the area on the map (in cm2) that represents an area of 4.7 km2 if the scale
used for the map is 1: 40000 .
12. On a map, an area of 16 cm2 represents 6.76 km2 on the ground. The scale on
the map is written as 1: n . Find the value of n .
13. The price tag on a shirt in a departmental store is $195. During a sale, the shirt
was on sale for $156.
a. Find the percentage discount.
b. It is known that the store can earn a 30% profit based on the original selling
price. Calculate the cost price of the shirt.

14. A merchant imported some antique for sale.

a. He decided to give a 15% discount for an event. An antique was sold at
$15937.50. Given that the profit was 6.25%, find the selling price (price tag)
as a percentage of the cost price.
b. In another event, he decided to give a 10% discount instead. An antique was
sold at $15937.50. Given that the profit was 20%, find the selling price (price
tag) as a percentage of the cost price.
15. Siti has a sum of $25000 to invest and she has 2 investment plans to choose
from. The details of both plans are listed below.
Plan A Plan B
Interest rate per annum (%) 10 8
Lock in period 6 years 72 months
Remarks simple interest interest
paid out compounded
every month
Which of the plans offers Siti a higher return at the end of each investment?
16. A man took a loan of $9000 from a finance company. The company charges the
man a simple interest of x % per annum.
a. Find the value of x and the interest rate if the amount that the man has to
repay at the end of the 5-year period is $11137.50.
b. If he decided to take up a 3-year loan instead of a 5-year loan, find the
amount he has to repay.
17. A bank offers a new promotion savings plan that pays an interest rate of i % per
annum for each new account. Find the value of i if
a. a principal sum of $27000 yields an interest of $1874.533 compounded every
half yearly after 36 months;
b. the amount after 2 years is 108.16% of the principal sum if the interest is
compounded annually.
18. Jenny wishes to buy her dream wedding gown using hire purchase. Under the
plan, she has to pay a 10% deposit which is $1750.
If the plan charges an interest rate of 20% per annum for 3 years, find the
amount of each monthly instalment.
19. Alex bought a motorcycle by hire purchase. Under the plan, Alex has to make a
15% down payment and 24 monthly instalments with an interest rate of 30% per
annum.
Find the cash price of the vehicle if the monthly instalment is $1190.

Tutorial 7 Answers
1)
a) 6: 3: 2
b) 18
c) 1: 2
2)
a) 15: 21: 7
b) 344 ml
3)
17 x
a) y = c) 𝑙𝑙 = 250𝑑𝑑
5
5 12
b) y = d) t =
3x E
4)
15 x
a) y =
4w
20 x 2
b) y =
7w
13 x
c) y =
5 w
5) 9 more days
6) ℎ𝑠𝑠 = 24 cm
7)
a) ℎ𝐿𝐿 = 36 cm b) 𝑉𝑉𝑆𝑆 = 67.5 cm3
8) 2560 cm2
9) 1475.1 cm3
10) 91: 9
11)
a) 142.5 cm c) 26 cm
b) 2.25 km2 d) 29.4 cm2
12) 𝑛𝑛 = 65,000

13)
a) 20%
b) $150
14)
a) 125%
b) 133.33%
15) Plan A - $40,000

Plan B - $40,337.55 ∴ Plan B
16)
a) 4.75%
b) $10,282.50
17)
a) 𝑖𝑖 = 2.25%
b) 𝑖𝑖 = 4%
18) $700
19) $21,000

Chapter 8 Sets and Venn Diagrams
The diagram shows two groups of animals, Group A and Group B.
Find a partner to discuss the following:
How are the animals grouped?
What are the differences and similarities between the two groups?
Are you able to name two animals that are neither in Group A or Group B?
The above activity you have experienced is called classification.
In classification, items with a common characteristic or property are grouped

together.
A group of items with a common characteristic or property is called a set. An item in

the set is often known as an element (or member) of the set.
In this chapter, we will be learning more about the
• Definition of a set
• Ways of describing a set
• Venn Diagram
• Set Notation

8.1 Introduction
A set is a group of items that have a common characteristic or property.
Items in a set are often known as elements (or members) of the set.
Capital letters such as A, B, C, … may be used to label sets.
Example 1
If A = {prime numbers less than 10} , list:
a. the element(s) of set A
b. one item that is not an element of set A
Solution:
a. A = {2,3,5, 7}
b. “9” is not an element of set A
Example 2
If B = {positive even integers less than or equal to 10} , list:
a. the element(s) of Set B
b. one item that is not an element of Set B
Solution:
From Examples 1 and 2, it can be seen that a set can be described in two ways:
• By defining the general property;
• By listing the elements.
When defining the general property of its elements, mathematical expression helps
to shorten the description.

Example 3
Set C is the set of positive integers less than 10.
Set D is the set of positive integers less than or equal to 20 that are multiples of 3.
Describe each set by defining the general property of the elements.
Solution:
C { x : x is a positive integer, x < 10} .

[Note: in this statement, the colon “:” is read as “such that” and the comma “,” is read
as “and”]
Mathematical symbols can also indicate whether an item is a member or element of

a set.
The mathematical symbol,∈ (belong to), indicates an item is a member or element

of the set.
∉ indicates an item does not belong to a set. Hence the item is not a member or
an element of the set.
In Example 1:
2 ∈ A means 2 is an element of A or 2 belongs to A
9 ∉ A means 9 is not an element of A

Example 4
If A = {2, 3, 5, 7} and B = {2, 4, 6, 8 10} , state whether each of the following statements
is true or false. Give a reason for each answer.
a. 3 ∈ A b. 1 ∈ A c. 2 ∉ A
d. 12 ∈ B e. 10 ∈ B f. 5 ∉ B
Solution:
a. True “3” is a member or element of A . This is consistent with the statement

3 ∈ A . Hence the statement is true.
b. False “1” is not a member or element of A . This is inconsistent with the

statement, 1 ∈ A . Hence, the statement is false.

The use of mathematical expressions also become more useful when there is an
infinite number of elements.
Example 5
Describe each of the following sets using a mathematical expression.
a. Set C consists of positive integers that are multiples of 2.
b. Set D consists of positive integers that are multiples of 3.
c. The elements of set E are positive integers that are multiples of 4.
d. The elements of set F are positive integers that are multiples of 5.
e. Set G consists of positive even integers.
Solution:
a. C = {multiples of 2}
C = {2, 4, 6,...}
[Note: In this statement, “…” represents infinite number of members or
elements in a set.]

In Example 5, the sets have an infinite number of elements.

One way to limit the number of elements in a particular situation is to have a
universal set.
A universal set (represented by ε ) is a set that contains all the relevant elements
in a particular situation.
Example 6
With reference to Example 5, given that ε ={ x : x is a positive integer and x ≤ 10} ,
list the members of sets C , D , E , F and G .
Solution:
C = {2, 4, 6,8, 10}
When a set is finite, there is a definite number of members or elements.

The number of elements in a set, say P , is represented by the symbol, n ( P ) .
Example 7
State the number of elements in each set.
P = {positive integers that are less than 15}
Q { x : x is a multiple of 4 and 14 ≤ x < 36}
R { x : x is an odd number and 10 ≤ x < 30}
T { x : x is a positive integer that contains the digit '3' and 30<x < 40}
Solution:
n ( P ) = 14

8.2 Venn Diagrams

When two or more sets are involved, there may be common elements between the
sets.
Example of Venn Diagram:
The use of diagrams will make visualization much easier.

A Venn diagram is a visual representation of the sets.
In a Venn diagram, the universal set, ε , is usually represented as a rectangle. All
other sets are usually represented as ovals or circles.
Example 8
Represent the sets, ε , C, D, E, F and G in Example 6 with a Venn Diagram.
Solution:
Example 9
a. Represent the following sets on a Venn diagram.

ε ={ x : x is an integer and 0 < x ≤ 15}
P
= { x : 2 x + 3 ≤ 15}
Q = { x : x is a perfect square}
R = { x : x is a multiple of 6}
b. find n ( R )
Solution:

8.3 Operations on sets

From Example 8, it can be observed that when two or more sets are involved,
relationships may occur. Set Notations are used to represent such relationships.
A list of set notations is shown in the table below.
In the examples below, C = {2,3,5, 6} and D = {1, 2,3,5, 7}
Symbol Meaning Example Venn Diagram
{ } Set: a collection of elements {2,3,5, 6}
A B Union: in A or B (or both) C  D = {1, 2,3,5, 6, 7}
A B Intersection: in both A and B C  D = {2,3,5}
A⊆ B Subset: A has some (or all) {2,3,5, 6} ⊆ C

elements of B
A⊂ B Proper Subset: A has some {2,3} ⊂ C

elements of B
A⊄ B Not a Subset: A is not a subset of B {1, 7} ⊄ C
∅ Empty set (or null set) ={ } {2,3}  {1, 4} = ∅
A' Complement: elements not in A C ' = {1, 4, 7,8}
When
ε = {1, 2,3, 4,5, 6, 7,8}

Example 10
Given ε ={ x : x is a whole number and 0 < x ≤ 14} ,
P = { x : x is an even number less than 7} and Q = { x : x is a prime number} ,
a. represent the above information on a Venn diagram;

b. find n ( P  Q ) .
c. shade the region P  Q on the Venn diagram.
Solution:
Example 11
Shade the region representing each of the following sets on the Venn Diagrams.
a. X  Y b. X  Y ' c. X '  Y
d. X '  Y ' e. ( X Y )'

Example 12
Express the shaded regions in each of the Venn diagrams using set notations.
a. b. c.
Solution:
Example 13
Two sets A and B are such that n ( A ) = 7 , n ( B ) = 5 and n ( ε ) = 15 .

a. Use a Venn diagram to represent the sets if
i. B ⊂ A ; ii. A  B = ∅ .
b. For (i) and (ii) above, find n ( A  B ) , n ( A  B ) and n ( ( A  B ) ') .
Solution:
Given n ( A ) = 7 , n ( B ) = 5 and n ( ε ) = 15 .
a. i. B ⊂ A a. ii. A  B = ∅
b.ii.
b.i.
n ( A  B) = 5 n ( A  B) = 7
n ( ( A  B ) ') = 8
It can be seen that:
• smallest possible value for n ( ( A ∪B )' ) occurs when two sets are disjoint;
• largest possible value for n ( ( A ∪B )' ) occurs when one set is a proper subset of
the other set.

Example 14
In a survey of a class of 30 students, 20 students indicated they have been to Japan,
15 students indicated they have been to Korea while 7 students have never been to
either country.
a. Represent the above information on a Venn diagram.
b. Hence, or otherwise, find

i. the number of students who have been to Japan and Korea;
ii. the number of students who have been to Korea only.
Solution:
a. Let x be the number of students who indicated they have been to both Japan
and Korea.
Therefore,
20 − x + x + 15 − x + 7 =30
x = 12
b. From the Venn diagram,

i. number of students who have been to Japan and Korea = 12
ii. number of students who have been to Korea only = 3

Example 15
A survey was conducted for 50 persons to find out the popularity of three kinds of
fast food; burgers, fried chicken and fries.
• 20 people liked fries;
• 16 people liked burgers;
• 29 people liked fried chicken;
• 9 people liked both fries and fried chicken;
• 11 people liked both burgers and fried chicken;
• 5 people liked both fries and burgers and
• 7 people do not like any kind of the fast food specified.

b. Hence, or otherwise, find
i. the number of people who liked all three kinds of fast food;
ii. the number of people who only liked fried chicken.
Solution:

Answers for Chapter 8 Examples
2a. B = {2, 4, 6,8,10} 3. D = {x : x is a positive integer and

b. any number that is not in Set B x is a multiple of 3}
4(c) – (f): F, F, T, T 5b. D = {3, 6,9...}
6. D = {3,6,9} ; E = {4,8} ; 7. n ( P ) = 14 ; n ( Q ) = 5 ; n ( R ) = 10 ; n (T ) = 9
F = {5,10} ; G = {2, 4, 6,8, 10}
8. 9.
n ( R) = 2
10b. n( P ∩ Q) =
1 12. a. Q b. P ' c. P’ ∪ Q
13. aii bii. n ( A ∩ B ) =

0,
n( A ∪ B) =
12 ,
n ( ( A ∪ B ) ') =
3
11.
15. a.
b.i. 3 ii. 12

Tutorial 8 Sets and Venn Diagrams
=1. If ε { x : x is an integer, − 28 ≤ x < 16} , A ={−27, −8, −1} and

B = { x : x is a non zero integer and x is a multiple of 8} ,
a. list the elements of B ;
b. describe A by defining the general properties of its elements;
c. find n ( A ∩ B ) .
2. If ε = {a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i} and there are two sets P = {a, c, d, f, i} and

Q = {b, c, d, g, h, i} ,
a. find n ( P ∪ Q ) .
b. state whether each of the following statements is true or false.
i. i ∈ P ii. v ∉ Q iii. v ∈ P iv. b ∈ Q
3. Given
= that a universal set ε { x : x is a positive integer and x ≤ 15} ,
A = { x : x is a multiple of 3 and x < 15} , B = { x : x is a multiple of 6}
and C = {3, 6,9,12,15} ,
a. list the element(s) of A '
b. state whether each of the following statements is true or false, giving a
reason for each answer.
i. B ⊂ A ii. A ⊄ B iii. C ⊆ A iv. A ⊂ C
4. Shade the region representing each of the following sets in the Venn diagrams.
a. P ∪ Q b. P '∪ Q
c. P ∩ Q ' d. ( P ∩ Q)'

5. Express the shaded region in each Venn diagram using set notation.
a. b. c.
6. Two sets A and B are such that n ( A ) = 7 , n ( B ) = 19 and n ( ε ) = 30 .

a. Given that 𝐴𝐴 ⊂ 𝐵𝐵,
i. Represent the set on a Venn Diagram;
ii. Find 𝑛𝑛(𝐴𝐴 ∩ 𝐵𝐵)
iii. Find 𝑛𝑛�(𝐴𝐴 ∩ 𝐵𝐵)′�
iv. Find 𝑛𝑛�(𝐴𝐴 ∪ 𝐵𝐵)′�
b. Repeat 𝑎𝑎(𝑖𝑖) to 𝑎𝑎(𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖) if 𝐴𝐴 ∩ 𝐵𝐵 = ∅.
7. The following information was found from a survey on 40 students:

20 students carried Samsung phone;
10 students carried iPhone;
7 students carried other brands of mobile phones excluding Samsung and
iPhone; and
4 students do not carry any smartphone at all.

b. Hence, or otherwise, find the number of students who carry either a Samsung
phone or an iPhone.
8. During an Open House event held in a polytechnic, an interview was conducted

to find the interest for three diploma courses offered, Diploma A, Diploma B and
Diploma C. Responses were gathered from 50 people.
a. Find the value of x .
b. Hence, or otherwise, find the number

of people
i. who indicated interest in Diploma A,
ii. who indicated interest in Diploma A
or Diploma B,
iii. who did not indicate interest in any
of the above Diplomas offered.

Tutorial 8 Answers
1)
{ 24, −16, −8, 8}
a) B =−
b) A = { x : x is a perfect cube, x is negative}
c) n ( A  B ) = 1
2)
a) n ( P  Q ) = 8
b)
i) True
ii) True
iii) False
iv) True
3)
a) A ' = { 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15}
b)
i) True. All of 𝐵𝐵’s elements are contained in 𝐴𝐴, and 𝐵𝐵 has fewer
elements, so 𝐵𝐵 is a proper subset of 𝐴𝐴.
ii) True. 𝐴𝐴 has more elements than 𝐵𝐵, so 𝐴𝐴 is not a proper subset of 𝐵𝐵.
iii) False. 𝐶𝐶 has more elements than 𝐴𝐴, so 𝐶𝐶 is not a subset of 𝐴𝐴.
iv) True. All of 𝐴𝐴’s elements are contained in 𝐶𝐶, and 𝐴𝐴 has fewer
elements, so 𝐴𝐴 is a proper subset of 𝐶𝐶.
4)
a) 𝑃𝑃 ∪ 𝑄𝑄 c) 𝑃𝑃 ∩ 𝑄𝑄 ′
b) 𝑃𝑃′ ∪ 𝑄𝑄 d) (𝑃𝑃 ∩ 𝑄𝑄)′
5)
a) 𝑋𝑋
b) 𝑌𝑌′
c) 𝑋𝑋 ∩ 𝑌𝑌′

6)
a)
i)
ii) n ( A  B ) = 7
iii) n ( ( A  B ) ') = 23
iv) n ( ( A  B ) ') = 11
b)
i)
ii) n ( A  B ) = 0
iii) n ( ( A  B ) ') = 30
iv) n ( ( A  B ) ') = 4
7)
a)
b) 29
8)
a) 𝑥𝑥 = 4
b)
i) 20
ii) 30
iii) 10

POLYTECHNIC FOUNDATION PROGRAMME (PFP)
MATHEMATICS FUNDAMENTALS 1
Jun 2019 COMMON TEST Time Allowed: 1.5 Hours

==================================================================
INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES:
1) Answer all the questions.
2) Write your student number and class/group on your answer booklet.
3) All working must be clearly shown. Omission of essential working will result in loss of
marks.
4) Calculators with communication, text-editing, programming or graphing capabilities are
NOT ALLOWED during the test.
5) If you have used any loose sheet, write your student number and question number on the
top of every sheet submitted.
6) For numerical answers that are non-exact, leave your final answers in 3 significant
figures unless otherwise specified.
7) This paper consists of 3 printed pages.
==================================================================
QUESTION 1 (16 marks)

a. Identify the irrational numbers from the numbers listed below:
3
2 27 4 64 5
, , , (2 marks)
3 3
64,  25 7
b. Approximate 45049601 to:
i. 3 significant figures; (1 mark)
ii. 5 significant figures. (1 mark)
c. i. Express 84 as a product of its prime factors. (4 marks)
ii. Hence find the smallest positive integer value of y such that 84 y is a perfect cube.
(4 marks)
d. Find the HCF and LCM of 4 x3 y 2 (1  x) 2 and 32 x 2 y(1  x)(2 x  1) . (4 marks)

a. i. Factorize 4 d e  3 c  12 ce  d completely. (3 marks)
49c 2  d 2
ii. Simplify . (5 marks)
14c 2  23cd  3d 2
4n
b. Given that y  , make M the subject of the formula. (5 marks)
1  3M
4 p 2 q3 s 4
c. Simplify and express your answer in positive exponents. (3 marks)
8 p3 s 2 q 7
MF1 Common Test Jun 2019 Page 1 of 5

a. Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations: (6 marks)
2x  3 y  5  0
3 x  2 y  12
b. Solve each of the following equations using the method specified.
Give your answers in exact form.
i. 12 x 2  11x  5  0 [factorization]; (4 marks)
ii. 20  3 x 2  6 x  4 [quadratic formula]; (4 marks)
iii. 2 x 2  8 x  11  0 [completing the square]. (4 marks)

a. Use matrices A, B, C and D to find the indicated matrices if possible.
State “not possible” if it cannot be evaluated. (8 marks)
 1 2 
 9 0 7   4 3     3 0
A  B  C   7 0 D 
 2 1 4   0 5  2 3   2 4
 
i. 3D  B
ii. AC
iii. A  C
iv. B  2 A
b. A fashion store sells T-shirts in three sizes: small (S), medium (M) and large (L). Each
size is available in 3 different colours: red, black and white. The number of T-shirts sold
in a certain day is given in the table below.
S M L
Red 8 25 10
Black 15 32 13
White 5 17 8
i. Write down a 3x3 matrix S to represent the sales records. (2 marks)

ii. If the selling prices of small –sized, medium-sized and large-sized T-shirts are $10,
$12 and $13 each respectively, represent these prices using a 3x1 matrix, P. (2 marks)
iii. Hence, form a matrix product and calculate the total amount received from the sales
of T-shirts of each colour for that particular day. (4 marks)

Simplify the following expressions:
3 2
a.  2 (4 marks)
2x 1 4x 1
6 x2  x  2 2 x2  5x  3
b.  (6 marks)
x 3  27 x2  9
3
9 x 2 y 3m 4
c. (Leave your answer in the simplest radical form) (6 marks)
3
2 x7 y 4

a. Given a quadratic function y   x 2  2 x  3 , find the
i. line of symmetry; (1 mark)

ii. coordinates of the maximum or minimum point; (2 marks)
iii. x-intercept(s) and y-intercept. (3 marks)
Hence, sketch the graph of y   x 2  2 x  3 . (4 marks)
[Note: no graph paper is required; do the sketch on the answer booklet]
b. An airplane pilot could decrease the time needed to travel the 5400 km from Ottawa to
London by 60 minutes if the average speed of the airplane v is increased by 40 km/h.
Solve for v in km/h.
(8 marks)
-END OF PAPER-

Answers
2 4 5
a. , ,
3  7
b. i. 45000000 ii. 45050000
c. i. 84  2  3  7
2
ii. 882
d. HCF = 4 x 2 y (1  x ) , LCM = 32 x3 y 2 (1  x) 2 (2 x  1)
7c  d
a. i. (3 c  d )(4 e  1) ii.
2c  3d
1 16 n 2
b. M  (1  2 )
3 y
2
s
c.
2 p q4

a. x  2, y  3
5 1
b. i. x  or x
4 3
3  57 3  57
ii. x  or x
3 3
19
iii. x  2 
2
 13 3   5 3 
a. i.   ii.   iii. Not possible iv. Not possible
6 7 1 8 
 8 25 10   10   510 
     
b. i. S  15 32 13  ii. P  12
  iii.  703 
 5 17 8   13   358 
     
6x  5
a.
(2 x  1)(2 x  1)
3x  2
b. 2
x  3x  9
m 3 36 m x y 2
c.
2x2 y

a. i. x  1 ii. max (1, 4)

iii. y-intercept is (0, 3), x-intercepts are (-1, 0) and (3, 0)
Graph of y   x 2  2 x  3
b. v  445 km/h


Aug 2020 FINAL TEST A Time Allowed: 1.5 Hours

==================================================================
3) All working must be clearly shown. Omission of essential working will result in loss of
marks.
4) Calculators with communication, text-editing, programming or graphing capabilities are
NOT ALLOWED during the test.
5) If you have used any loose sheet, write your student number and question number on the
top of every sheet submitted.
6) For numerical answers that are non-exact, leave your final answers in 3 significant
figures unless otherwise specified.
7) This paper consists of 2 printed pages.
==================================================================

a. Find the HCF and LCM of 3𝑥 2 𝑦 5 (2𝑥 − 1)3 and 27𝑥𝑦 3 (2𝑥 − 1)(1 − 3𝑥)2. (4 marks)
b. i. Factorize 5𝑐𝑑 − 8𝑒 − 10𝑑 + 4𝑐𝑒 completely. (4 marks)

2
4𝑑 −𝑐2
ii. Simplify 2 . (6 marks)
2𝑑 −5𝑐𝑑−3𝑐2

a. Given that 3𝑝 = √1 − 4𝑥, make 𝑥 the subject of the formula. (5 marks)
25𝑤 3 𝑡√𝑢
b. Simplify and express your answer in positive exponents. (5 marks)
5𝑡 3 𝑢𝑤
c. Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations: (4 marks)
𝑥
−𝑦+6=0
2
2𝑦 + 3𝑥 = 11

Given a quadratic function 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 5, find the
a. line of symmetry; (2 marks)
b. coordinates of the maximum or minimum point; (3 marks)
c. x-intercept(s) and y-intercept. (3 marks)
d. Hence, sketch the graph of 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 5. (4 marks)
[Note: no graph paper is required; do the sketch on the answer booklet]
MF1 Final Test A (Aug 20) Page 1 of 2


a. Use matrices A, B, C and D to find the indicated matrices if possible.
State “not possible” if it cannot be evaluated. (9 marks)
10 9
4 0 8 0 −9 3
𝐴=( ) 𝐵 = ( 2 7) 𝐶=( ) 𝐷=( )
−3 5 3 −1 2 0
−4 5
i. 𝐴𝐶
ii. 𝐵𝐷
iii. 𝐷𝐵 + 10𝐴
b. Solve the inequality: 2 − 3𝑥 ≤ 5 − 𝑥 < 12 − 5𝑥

Show the solution set on a number line. (5 marks)

6 2
a. − (4 marks)
1−2𝑥 3𝑥+2
𝑥 3 −8 9𝑥 2 −1
b. × (7 marks)
6𝑥 2 +7𝑥−3 3𝑥 2 −5𝑥−2
3
√6𝑦𝑡 5 𝑛2
c. 3 (Leave your answer in the simplest radical form) (7 marks)
√8 𝑡 7 𝑦 2
On a map, the scale used is 1:20 000. Find
a. the distance on the ground (in m) that is represented by a length of 9.4 cm on the map; (4 marks)
b. the area on the map (in cm2) that is represented by an area of 6.53 km2 on the ground. (4 marks)

a. Jane deposited $30000 into a bank. If the bank pays simple interest, find
i. the interest earned for 3 years for an interest rate of 2.5% per annum; (4 marks)
ii. the interest rate if the amount that Jane has at the end of 42 months is $32000. (6 marks)
b. Samuel wishes to buy a laptop using hire purchase. Under the plan, he has to pay a 10% deposit
which is $270. If the plan charges an interest rate of 15% per annum for 2 years, find the amount
of each monthly instalment. (10 marks)
-END OF PAPER-

Answers
b. HCF is 3𝑥𝑦 3 (2𝑥 − 1)

LCM is 27𝑥 2 𝑦 5 (2𝑥 − 1)3 (1 − 3𝑥)2
b. i. (𝑐 − 2)(5𝑑 + 4𝑒)
2𝑑−𝑐
ii. 𝑑−3𝑐

1−9𝑝2
a. 𝑥=
4
5𝑤 2
b. 1
𝑡 2 𝑢2
1 47
c. 𝑥 = − 4, 𝑦= 8

3
a. The line of symmetry is 𝑥 = = 0.75
4
b. Coordinates of minimum point is (0.75, -6.13)
c. The x-intercepts are (-1, 0) and (2.5, 0)
Graph of 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 5


32
a. i. 𝐴𝐶 = ( )
−9
−9 −72 30
ii. 𝐵𝐷 = (−7 −4 6 )
−5 46 −12
iii. 𝐷𝐵 + 10𝐴 = ( 10 −48

)
−36 55
3 7
b. Final answer: − ≤ 𝑥 <
2 4
3 7
Number line: −
2 4

2(11𝑥+5)
a.
(1−2𝑥)(3𝑥+2)
𝑥 2 +2𝑥+4
b.
2𝑥+3
3
√6𝑛2 𝑡𝑦 2
c.
2𝑡𝑦
a. 1880 m
b. 163 cm2

a. i. The amount of interest earned is $2250
ii.The interest rate is 1.90%.
b. The monthly instalment is $131.63.


June 2022 Common Test Time Allowed: 1.5 Hours
=================================================================================
3) All working must be clearly shown. Omission of essential working will result in loss of marks.
4) Calculators with communication, text-editing, programming or graphing capabilities are NOT
ALLOWED during the test.
5) Start each question on a new page. If you have used any loose sheet, write your student number and
question number on the top of every sheet submitted.
6) For numerical answers that are non-exact, leave your final answers in 3 significant figures unless
otherwise specified.
7) This paper consists of 4 printed pages, including a formulae list.
=================================================================================

a. Identify the rational numbers from the numbers listed below:
3
3 3 40 49 3
, , 3
, , (2 marks)
121 2 135 2 5
b. Given the distance of 401752498 m, express it
i. in Giga-metres (Gm); (2 marks)
ii. in standard form in metres. (2 marks)
c. i. Express 2200 as a product of its prime factors. (2 marks)
ii. Hence find the smallest positive integer value of m such that 2200m is a perfect cube. (2 marks)
d. Find the HCF and LCM of 3 a 2 y 2 ( 2 x − 1) and 36 a3r ( 2 x − 1) .

3 2
(4 marks)

a. i. Factorize 4a + 15 cy − 5 y − 12ac completely. (3 marks)
9c − 4d
2 2
ii. Simplify . (5 marks)
6c + 17cd − 14d 2
2
5ax
b. Given that y = , make a the subject of the formula. (4 marks)
d + 3a
−2
 4 p 2 r 2r 3 
c. Simplify    and express your answer in positive exponents. (4 marks)
 3 p 
MF1 Common Test 1 2022 April Semester


a. Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations: (5 marks)
p q
−1 + = 2
2 3
10 − q = 3 p − 5
b. Solve the following equations:
1
i. −4 + = −3 (4 marks)
( 2 x − 1)
2
x−4 3 4
ii. − = (5 marks)
2 x − 7 x − 15 2 x + 3 x − 5
2
c. Express 2 x 2 − 7 x − 12 in the form a ( x + h ) + k by completing the square.

2
(5 marks)

a. For each of the following expressions, evaluate whenever possible.
Otherwise, state “not possible” AND justify your answer. (9 marks)
 3 4   −1 7 8   6 0   −7 8 
i. 3  − 2  ii.   − 4 
 0 −2   0 −3 −5   4 −2   0 2 
 1 
 − −4 
3 0  2
 1 0  −3 6 0    0 
iii.    iv. 3
4 −   1
 4 −2  0 −1 −4 
 4  7 8
 
 
b. Alan and Chloe are studying the same course in a school. They keep a record of the awards
they have earned. The table below shows the number of awards they have earned.
Gold Silver Bronze

Alan 30 17 1
Chloe 29 15 4
i. Represent the number of awards recorded using a 2  3 matrix, R . (1 mark)

ii. If the points gained for Gold, Silver and Bronze are 5, 3 and 2 respectively, represent
this information using a 3  1 matrix, P . (1 mark)
iii. Hence, form a matrix product and evaluate this matrix multiplication. (3 marks)
iv. Explain in your own words, what the matrix multiplication in (iii) represents. (2 marks)


2 x 2 + 8 xy 3
a. − (4 marks)
x − 16 y
2 2
x − 4y
2 x3 + 13x 2 + 15 x 27 x3 + 64
b.  2 (7 marks)
2 x 2 + 7 x − 15 6 x − x − 12
3
625a 6b5 w3
c. (Give your answer in simplest radical form) (6 marks)
3
81a 2 w4

a. A water tank has a capacity of 3000 litres. Pump A can fill the tank at a rate of
x litres per minute while Pump B fills at a rate of ( x − 10 ) litres per minute.
Pump B takes 21 minutes longer than Pump A to fill the tank.
i. Show that 7 x 2 − 70 x − 10000 = 0 . (5 marks)
ii. Solve the equation, giving your answer(s) to 2 decimal places. (2 marks)
iii. How long would it take for both pumps to fill one tank at the same time?
Give your answer correct to the nearest minute. (2 marks)
b. Given the quadratic function y = − x2 + 5x + 24 :
i. Find the line of symmetry. (1 mark)
ii. Find the coordinates of the maximum or minimum point. (2 marks)
iii. Find the y - intercept and the x - intercept(s). (3 marks)
iv. Hence, sketch the graph of the quadratic function y = − x2 + 5x + 24 . (3 marks)

(No graph paper required)

Answers
QUESTION 1
3
3 40
a. , 3
121 135
b. i. 0.402 Gm
ii. 4.02 108 m
c. i. 2200 = 23  52 111
ii. m = 51 112 = 605
d. HCF = 3a 2 (2 x − 1)2
LCM = 36 a3 r y 2 (2 x −1)3
QUESTION 2
a. i. (4a − 5 y)(1 − 3c)
3c + 2d
ii.
2c + 7d
yd
b. a =
5x − 3 y
9r 4
c.
4 p6
QUESTION 3
a. p = 4, q = 3
b. i. x = 0 or x = 1
1
ii. x = −
10
7 145
c. 2( x − )2 −
4 8

QUESTION 4
a. i. Not possible. Subtraction can only be performed for matrices of the same order.
 34 −32 
ii.  
 4 −10 
 −3 6 0 
iii.  
 −12 26 8 
iv. Not possible. The number of columns in the first matrix must be the same as the
number of rows in the second matrix.
 30 17 1 
b. i. R= 
 29 15 4 
5
 
ii. P =  3 
 2
 
 203 
iii. RP =  
 198 
iv. They represent the total number of points gained by Alan and Chloe respectively.
QUESTION 5
2x − 3
a.
x − 4y
x ( 2 x + 3)
b.
9 x 2 − 12 x + 16
5ab 3
45a b 2 w2
c.
9w

QUESTION 6
3000 3000
a. i. − = 21
x − 10 x
ii. x = 43.13, x = −33.13 (N.A.)
iii. 76.26 litres per minute
39.3  39 minutes
5
b. i. x=
2
 5 121 
ii. Max point  , 
2 4 
iii. y - intercept ( 0, 24 )
x - intercepts ( −3, 0 ) and ( 8, 0 )
iv.


June 2023 Common Test Time Allowed: 1.5 Hours
=================================================================================
1) Answer all the questions. For numerical answers that are non-exact, leave your final answers in 3
significant figures unless otherwise specified.
3) All working must be clearly shown. Omission of essential working will result in loss of marks.
4) Calculators with communication, text-editing, programming or graphing capabilities are NOT
ALLOWED during the test.
5) You may write on both sides of the booklet. If you have used any loose sheet, write your student
number and question number on the top of every sheet submitted.
6) This paper consists of 4 printed pages, including a formulae list.
=================================================================================
a. Copy the table below onto your answer booklet and put a tick ✓ on the relevant rows: (2 marks)
Select all categories that the number −3 belong to.
Category Tick (✓)

Natural Numbers
Integers
Rational Numbers
Irrational Numbers
[ You may tick on more than one row ]
b. Express 0.00000328695 in standard form. (2 marks)
c. Find the smallest positive integer value of w such that 25725w is a perfect cube. (2 marks)
d. Find the LCM of 9a 2 c , 12ab3 and 6bc 2 . (3 marks)
6 x 2 − 7 xy − 3 y 2
a. Factorise and simplify . (6 marks)
3ay − 2ax + 12by − 8bx
x 2 + 6 x + 9 x 2 + 3x
b. Simplify ÷ 2 . (7 marks)
8 x3 − 1 4x −1
y 6 − 2x
c. Given that = , make x the subject of the formula. (4 marks)
3 x+3


2 3
a. Solve − 5.
= (6 marks)
x +3 x −3
b. Express y = 4 x 2 − 12 x + 1 in the form y = a ( x + h ) + k by completing the square.

2
(5 marks)
c. Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations: (5 marks)

2 3
− = 0
y x
10 x − 6 = 9 y − 4
d. 100 tickets were sold for a show. Adult tickets cost $5 each while concessionary tickets
cost $2 each. If $260 were collected in ticket sales, how many adult tickets were sold? (6 marks)
1 x  0 5  2 2
a. Given that P =  , Q =   and R =   , find the values of x , y and the
5 0  y 1 6 4
constant k such that P + 2Q =
kR . (7 marks)
b. A drink stall sells iced lemon tea and barley water, each available in small, regular and large cups.
The number of cups of drinks sold over a 10-minute period is given in the table below. The price of
a small, regular and large cup of drink is $1.30, $1.50 and $1.80 respectively.
Small Regular Large

Iced Lemon Tea 4 8 2
Barley Water 1 5 0
i. Represent the number of cups of drinks recorded using a 2 × 3 matrix, M . (1 mark)
ii. Represent the price of a small, regular and large cup of drink using a 3 × 1 matrix, N . (1 mark)
iii. Hence, form a matrix product and evaluate this matrix multiplication. (3 marks)
iv. Explain what the matrix multiplication in (iii) represents. (2 marks)
v. Given that P = (1 1) , find PM . (2 marks)
vi. Explain what the matrix multiplication in (v) represents. (2 marks)


Simplify and express your answer in positive exponents:
( x y ) ( 2 xy )
3 3 −2
a. (5 marks)
( 4x)
−2
y −5
−1
 x −2 + y 
b.  −1 
(5 marks)
 2y 
3
81 x 2 y 5 z 6
c. (Give your answer in simplest radical form) (5 marks)
3
64 x 4

a. A bookseller bought x storybooks for $20 . He sold 6 storybooks at a profit of $2 each, and the
remainder of the storybooks at $3 each. He received $33 for selling all the books.
i. Write down an expression in terms of x for the price he paid for each book. (1 mark)
ii. Write down an expression in terms of x for the price of each book that he sold. (1 mark)
iii. Show that x 2 − 13 x + 40 =
0. (4 marks)
iv. Solve the equation. (2 marks)
v. How many storybooks did he buy? Justify your answer. (2 marks)
b. Given the quadratic function y = 2 x 2 + 5 x − 18 :
i. Find the line of symmetry. (1 mark)
ii. Find the coordinates of the maximum or minimum point. (2 marks)
iii. Find the y - intercept and the x - intercept(s). (3 marks)
iv. Hence, sketch the graph of the quadratic function y = 2 x 2 + 5 x − 18 .

Indicate and label in your sketch all the intercepts and their respective coordinates. (3 marks)
(No graph paper required)

Answers
QUESTION 1
a.
Category Check (✓)
Natural Numbers
Integers ✓
Rational Numbers ✓
Irrational Numbers
= 3.29 ×10−6
b. 0.00000328695
c. 25725 =3 × 52 × 73
w = 32 × 5 = 45
d. LCM = 36 a 2 b3 c 2
QUESTION 2
3x + y
a. −
a + 4b
b.
( x + 3)( 2 x + 1)
x ( 4 x 2 + 2 x + 1)
18 − 3 y
c. x=
y+6
QUESTION 3
a. x = 2.35 OR x = −2.55 (3 sig. fig.)
2
 3
b. y = 4  x −  − 8
 2
1 1
c.=x =, y
2 3
d. Let x and y be the number of Adult and Concessionary tickets respectively.
=x 20,
= y 80 (20 Adult tickets were sold)

QUESTION 4
1
a. k = , x = −9 , y = −1
2
 4 8 2
b. i. M = 
1 5 0
 1.3 
ii. N = 1.5 
1.8 
 
 1.3 
 4 8 2     20.8 
iii. MN =   1.5  =  
 1 5 0  1.8   8.8 
 
iv. It represents the total sales made for iced lemon tea and barley water are $20.80 and
$8.80 respectively.
 4 8 2
v. PM
= (1=
1)   (5 13 2 )
1 5 0
vi. It represents 5 small, 13 regular and 2 large cups of drinks sold over the period.
QUESTION 5
a. 4x 9 y 6
2x 2
b.
y (1 + x 2 y )
c.
3 yz 2 ( 3
3 xy 2 )
4x

QUESTION 6
20
a. i.
x
20
ii. +2
x
 20 
iii. 6  + 2  + ( x − 6 )( 3) =
33
 x 
x 2 − 13 x + 40 =
0 (Shown)
iv. x = 8 OR x = 5
v. He bought 8 storybooks since the number must be greater than 6.
5
b. i. x= −
4
169
ii. y = −
8
 5 169 
Since a = 2 , the minimum point is  − , − .
 4 8 
iii. y - intercept is ( 0, − 18 )
x - intercepts are ( −4.5, 0 ) and ( 2, 0 ) .
iv. y = 2 x 2 + 5 x − 18

MF1 Formulae List
Special Factors Exponents and Radicals

A2 − B 2 = ( A + B )( A − B ) (a ⋅ b)
m
bm ⋅ bn =
bm+n =a m ⋅ b m
m
bm a am
A3 + B 3 = ( A + B ) ( A2 − AB + B 2 ) = bm−n   =
b n
b bm
A3 − B 3 = ( A − B ) ( A2 + AB + B 2 ) (b )
m n
m
= b mn b n = n bm
1
A2 + 2 AB + B 2 = ( A + B )
2
b−m = b0 = 1
bm
A2 − 2 AB + B 2 = ( A − B )
2
Quadratic Function
−b ± b 2 − 4ac
For ax 2 + bx + c =0, x=
2a
b
For y = ax 2 + bx + c , Line of symmetry: x= −
2a
Matrices Ratio of Similar Figures

A B = C Given figures X and Y , the ratios of the
(m × n) ⋅ (n × p) = (m × p) length l to area A and volume V are:

2 3
AX  l X  VX  l X 
Given an identity matrix I , AI
= IA
= A =  = 
AY  lY  VY  lY 
Simple Interest Compound Interest

T
PRT  R 
I= Total amount= 1 +  P
100  100 
Total Instalments M = Loan Amount + Interest I charged on Loan Amount
Total cost T = Down Payment D + Total Instalments M

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April 2024 Semester

Tutorial Group: ________________

Chapter 1 Arithmetic and Algebra

Chapter 2 Quadratic Equations

Chapter 3 Exponents and Radicals

Chapter 4 Simultaneous Equations

Chapter 6 Linear Inequalities

Chapter 7 Mathematics for Daily Life

Chapter 8 Sets and Venn Diagrams

Past Year Common Test Papers with Answers

NGEE ANN POLYTECHNIC

TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT PLAN (APRIL 2024 SEMESTER)

Module Title : Mathematics Fundamentals I Level : PFP

8 03/06/24 Common Test

11 24/06/24 Review Common Test 1 Chapter 6 1 Assignment 2 (10%)

*Public Holidays/Day Offs:

Tutorial – 15% Assignments – 25% Quizzes – 40% Common Test – 20%

Chapter 1 Arithmetic and Algebra

1.1. Numbers and Operations

1.1.1. Types of Numbers in our current counting system

The invention of numbers allows for more accurate counting.

Let us recollect some facts about numbers.

2. Whole numbers: The set of integers excluding the negative integers.

April 2024 Semester Chapter 1 | Page 1

Identify the irrational number(s) from the list of following numbers.

15 and π are irrational numbers.

Identify the rational number(s) from the list of following numbers.

April 2024 Semester Chapter 1 | Page 2

Another operation that is commonly used is approximation “≈”.

In approximation, values are expressed less precisely.

For example, $504,789 ≈ $500,000 (to the nearest $100,000).

When a given value needs to be rounded to a specific number of significant figures,

Rule 1. All non-zero digits are significant.

Rule 2. All zeroes between non-zero digits are significant.

April 2024 Semester Chapter 1 | Page 3

Approximate the following values to 1, 2 or 4 significant figures.

1 sig. fig. 2 sig. fig. 4 sig. fig.

b. 0.056789 ≈ 0.06 (1 s.f.) ≈ 0.057 (2 s.f.) ≈ 0.05679 (4 s.f.)

c. 9050 ≈ 9000 (1 s.f.) ≈ 9100 (2 s.f.) ≈ 9050 (4 s.f.)

d. 40506790 ≈ 40000000 (1 s.f.) ≈ 41000000 (2 s.f.) ≈ 40510000 (4 s.f.)

Approximate the following values to 1, 3 or 4 significant figures.

1 sig. fig. 3 sig. fig. 4 sig. fig.

April 2024 Semester Chapter 1 | Page 4

1.1.3 Standard Form and Prefixes

Prefix Value Symbol Name

b. Express 0.003137 g in:

a. i. 3173000 m = 3.173000 × 1000000 m = 3.17 × 106 m

b. i. 0.003137 g = 3.137 × 0.001 g = 3.14 × 10−3 g

Round to 3 sig. fig.

April 2024 Semester Chapter 1 | Page 5

The storage space remaining on a hard disk is stated as 12856789 bytes or

A strand of fibre optic wire is found to be 0.00000789 m. Express this value in

Answer: 7.89 𝜇𝜇m

a. Express the population of both cities in terms of million.

a. City A has a population of 22,500,000 = 22.5 × 1,000,000 = 22.5 million

b. Difference in population between the two cities

April 2024 Semester Chapter 1 | Page 6

Nation A has a debt of $2,800,000,000 while Nation B has a debt of $750,000,000.