Welcome to today’s IGCSE Mathematics tutorial. In this lesson, we’ll tackle two high-yield IGCSE math problems — one involving polynomial factorization and the other applying the cosine rule in triangle geometry. These are both frequently tested in IGCSE and essential for exam success.
You can watch the full class in the video below:
Question 1: Solve the Equation
x3+x2−4x−4=0x^3 + x^2 – 4x – 4 = 0x3+x2−4x−4=0
Step-by-Step Solution:
Group the terms for easier factoring: (x3+x2)+(−4x−4)(x^3 + x^2) + (-4x – 4)(x3+x2)+(−4x−4)
Now factor common elements from each group: x2(x+1)−4(x+1)x^2(x + 1) – 4(x + 1)x2(x+1)−4(x+1)
Factor out the common binomial: (x+1)(x2−4)=0(x + 1)(x^2 – 4) = 0(x+1)(x2−4)=0
Now factor the difference of squares: (x+1)(x+2)(x−2)=0(x + 1)(x + 2)(x – 2) = 0(x+1)(x+2)(x−2)=0
Final Answer:
The solutions are: x=−1,x=−2,x=2x = -1,\quad x = -2,\quad x = 2x=−1,x=−2,x=2
Roots of the equation: −2, −1, 2\boxed{-2,\ -1,\ 2}−2, −1, 2
Question 2: Using the Cosine Rule in Triangle ABC
Given:
- Side AB=8 cmAB = 8\, \text{cm}AB=8cm
- Side AC=6 cmAC = 6\, \text{cm}AC=6cm
- Angle ∠A=60∘\angle A = 60^\circ∠A=60∘
- Find side BCBCBC
Applying the Cosine Rule:
The cosine rule is given by: a2=b2+c2−2bccosAa^2 = b^2 + c^2 – 2bc\cos Aa2=b2+c2−2bccosA
Where:
- a=BCa = BCa=BC (unknown)
- b=AC=6 cmb = AC = 6\, \text{cm}b=AC=6cm
- c=AB=8 cmc = AB = 8\, \text{cm}c=AB=8cm
- ∠A=60∘\angle A = 60^\circ∠A=60∘
Plug in the values:
a2=62+82−2⋅6⋅8⋅cos(60∘)a^2 = 6^2 + 8^2 – 2 \cdot 6 \cdot 8 \cdot \cos(60^\circ)a2=62+82−2⋅6⋅8⋅cos(60∘) a2=36+64−96⋅0.5a^2 = 36 + 64 – 96 \cdot 0.5a2=36+64−96⋅0.5 a2=100−48=52a^2 = 100 – 48 = 52a2=100−48=52
Now take the square root: a=52=4⋅13=213a = \sqrt{52} = \sqrt{4 \cdot 13} = 2\sqrt{13}a=52=4⋅13=213
Final Answer: BC=213 cm≈7.21 cmBC = \boxed{2\sqrt{13}\ \text{cm}} \approx 7.21\, \text{cm}BC=213 cm≈7.21cm
Watch more educational videos and past questions: https://youtube.com/@allcbts
Why These Topics Are Crucial for IGCSE 2025
- Polynomial factorization helps in solving cubic equations, essential in algebra.
- Cosine Rule is a vital part of non-right triangle problems, often tested in Paper 2 and 4.
By mastering these skills, you increase your chance of scoring full marks in structured and objective questions.
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Description:
Solve IGCSE Mathematics 2025 questions on polynomials and triangle geometry using this step-by-step guide. Learn factorization and cosine rule applications for exam success.
Keywords:
IGCSE Maths 2025, solve x^3 + x^2 – 4x – 4, cosine rule IGCSE, triangle side calculation, IGCSE polynomial factorization, Cambridge exam math