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CAIE A-Level Further Mathematics 1.5 Polar Coordinates

Practise converting equations, sketching significant polar-curve features and calculating exact distances or areas with limits taken from the stated angular interval.

Syllabus
2028–2030
Course
Further Mathematics 9231
Level
AS

Exam points

  • convert between polar and Cartesian forms using x, y and r identities, then remove fractions cleanly
  • mark the pole, symmetry, interval endpoints and extreme radius when sketching a polar curve
  • use one-half the integral of r squared with limits justified by intersections or the given interval

1.5 Polar coordinates question 1

[Maximum number: 11]

Question (a)

(a)

Show that the curve with Cartesian equation

(x2+y2)52=4xy(x2y2)\left(x^{2}+y^{2}\right)^{\frac{5}{2}}=4 x y\left(x^{2}-y^{2}\right)

has polar equation r=sin4θr=\sin 4 \theta.

The curve C has polar equation r=sin4θr=\sin 4 \theta, for 0θ14π0 \leqslant \theta \leqslant \frac{1}{4} \pi.

[ 4 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Sketch C and state the equation of the line of symmetry.

[ 3 ]

Question (c)

(c)

Find the exact value of the area of the region enclosed by C.

[ 4 ]
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