De Moivre's Theorem

Edexcel

AQA

OCR A

OCR MEI

A2 June 2025 Paper 1 Q10

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksDe Moivre's TheoremIntegration

10.

(a) Given that, for \(n \in \mathbb{N}\)\[\begin{aligned} z^n + \frac{1}{z^n} &= 2\cos n\theta\\ z^n - \frac{1}{z^n} &= 2\mathrm{i}\sin n\theta\end{aligned}\]show that\[8\sin^4\theta \equiv \cos 4\theta - 4\cos 2\theta + 3\] (5)
Figure 1: central vertical cross-section of the ornament, a closed shape that bulges out in the middle and tapers to a point at the bottom, with a flat top
Figure 1
Figure 2: the curve from O bulging to the right of the y-axis, with the shaded region R between the curve, the y-axis and a horizontal line at the top
Figure 2

Figure 1 shows the central vertical cross-section of a solid wooden ornament.

Figure 2 shows the curve with equation

\[x = \sin^2\left(\frac{1}{2}y\right) \qquad\qquad 0 \leqslant y \leqslant \frac{8\pi}{5}\]

The region \(R\), shown shaded in Figure 2, is bounded by the curve, the line with equation \(y = \dfrac{8\pi}{5}\) and the \(y\)-axis.

The ornament is modelled by the solid of revolution formed when \(R\) is rotated \(360^\circ\) about the \(y\)-axis. The units are centimetres.

(b) Using algebraic integration and the result in part (a), determine, in cm\(^3\), the volume of wood needed to make the ornament, according to the model. Give your answer to 2 significant figures.
[Solutions based entirely on calculator technology are not acceptable.] (5)

Given that

  • the density of the wood is 0.85 g/cm\(^3\)
  • the mass of the ornament is 6 grams
(c) comment on the suitability of the model. (2)

A2 June 2024 Paper 2 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

7.

(a) Determine the roots of the equation\[z^6 = 1\]giving your answers in the form \(\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) where \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\) (2)
(b) Show the roots of the equation in part (a) on a single Argand diagram. (2)
(c) Show that\[\left(\sqrt{3} + \mathrm{i}\right)^6 = -64\] (2)
(d) Hence, or otherwise, solve the equation\[z^6 + 64 = 0\]giving your answers in the form \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) where \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\) (3)

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

4. The complex number \(z = \mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\), where \(\theta\) is real.

(a) Show that\[z^n + \frac{1}{z^n} \equiv 2\cos n\theta\]where \(n\) is a positive integer. (2)
(b) Show that\[\cos^5\theta = \frac{1}{16}(\cos 5\theta + 5\cos 3\theta + 10\cos\theta)\] (5)
(c) Hence, making your reasoning clear, determine all the solutions of\[\cos 5\theta + 5\cos 3\theta + 12\cos\theta = 0\]in the interval \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\) (3)

A2 June 2023 Paper 2 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

5. The points representing the complex numbers \(z_1 = 35 - 25\mathrm{i}\) and \(z_2 = -29 + 39\mathrm{i}\) are opposite vertices of a regular hexagon, \(H\), in the complex plane.

The centre of \(H\) represents the complex number \(\alpha\)

(a) Show that \(\alpha = 3 + 7\mathrm{i}\) (2)

Given that \(\beta = \dfrac{1 + \mathrm{i}}{64}\)

(b) show that\[\beta(z_1 - \alpha) = 1\] (2)

The vertices of \(H\) are given by the roots of the equation

\[\left(\beta(z - \alpha)\right)^6 = 1\]
(c)
(i) Write down the roots of the equation \(w^6 = 1\) in the form \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) (1)
(ii) Hence, or otherwise, determine the position of the other four vertices of \(H\), giving your answers as complex numbers in Cartesian form. (4)

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

3.

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

Solutions relying on calculator technology are not acceptable.

\[z_1 = -4 + 4\mathrm{i}\]
(a) Express \(z_1\) in the form \(r(\cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta)\), where \(r \in \mathbb{R}\), \(r \gt 0\) and \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\) (2)
\[z_2 = 3\left(\cos\frac{17\pi}{12} + \mathrm{i}\sin\frac{17\pi}{12}\right)\]
(b) Determine in the form \(a + \mathrm{i}b\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are exact real numbers,
(i) \(\dfrac{z_1}{z_2}\) (2)
(ii) \((z_2)^4\) (2)
(c) Show on a single Argand diagram
(i) the complex numbers \(z_1\), \(z_2\) and \(\dfrac{z_1}{z_2}\)
(ii) the region defined by \(\left\{z \in \mathbb{C} : |z - z_1| \lt |z - z_2|\right\}\) (4)

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q8

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksDe Moivre's TheoremIntegration

8.

(a) Given\[z^n + \frac{1}{z^n} = 2\cos n\theta \qquad n \in \mathbb{N}\]show that\[32\cos^6\theta \equiv \cos 6\theta + 6\cos 4\theta + 15\cos 2\theta + 10\] (5)
Figure 1: a solid paperweight with a flat base, shaped like half of a rounded spindle
Figure 1
Figure 2: the curve above the x-axis between the dashed lines x = -4 and x = 4, highest on the y-axis, with the region R between the curve and the x-axis shaded
Figure 2

Figure 1 shows a solid paperweight with a flat base.

Figure 2 shows the curve with equation

\[y = H\cos^3\left(\frac{x}{4}\right) \qquad\qquad {-4} \leqslant x \leqslant 4\]

where \(H\) is a positive constant and \(x\) is in radians.

The region \(R\), shown shaded in Figure 2, is bounded by the curve, the line with equation \(x = -4\), the line with equation \(x = 4\) and the \(x\)-axis.

The paperweight is modelled by the solid of revolution formed when \(R\) is rotated 180° about the \(x\)-axis.

Given that the maximum height of the paperweight is 2 cm,

(b) write down the value of \(H\). (1)
(c) Using algebraic integration and the result in part (a), determine, in \(\text{cm}^3\), the volume of the paperweight, according to the model. Give your answer to 2 decimal places.

[Solutions based entirely on calculator technology are not acceptable.]

(5)
(d) State a limitation of the model. (1)

A2 October 2021 Paper 2 Q9

EdexcelCurrent spec8 marksDe Moivre's TheoremSeries

9.

(a) Given that \(|z| \lt 1\), write down the sum of the infinite series\[1 + z + z^2 + z^3 + \ldots\] (1)

(b) Given that \(z = \dfrac{1}{2}(\cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta)\),

(i) use the answer to part (a), and de Moivre’s theorem or otherwise, to prove that\[\frac{1}{2}\sin\theta + \frac{1}{4}\sin 2\theta + \frac{1}{8}\sin 3\theta + \ldots = \frac{2\sin\theta}{5 - 4\cos\theta}\] (5)
(ii) show that the sum of the infinite series \(1 + z + z^2 + z^3 + \ldots\) cannot be purely imaginary, giving a reason for your answer. (2)

A2 October 2021 Paper 2 Q1

EdexcelCurrent spec5 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

1. Given that

\[\begin{aligned} z_1 &= 3\left(\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{3}\right) + \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\frac{\pi}{3}\right)\right) \\ z_2 &= \sqrt{2}\left(\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{12}\right) - \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\frac{\pi}{12}\right)\right) \end{aligned}\]
(a) write down the exact value of
(i) \(|z_1 z_2|\)
(ii) \(\arg(z_1 z_2)\) (2)

Given that \(w = z_1 z_2\) and that \(\arg(w^n) = 0\), where \(n \in \mathbb{Z}^+\)

(b) determine
(i) the smallest positive value of \(n\)
(ii) the corresponding value of \(|w^n|\) (3)

A2 October 2020 Paper 2 Q4

4.

(a) Use de Moivre’s theorem to prove that\[\sin 7\theta = 7\sin\theta - 56\sin^3\theta + 112\sin^5\theta - 64\sin^7\theta\] (5)
(b) Hence find the distinct roots of the equation\[1 + 7x - 56x^3 + 112x^5 - 64x^7 = 0\]giving your answer to 3 decimal places where appropriate. (5)

A2 June 2019 Paper 2 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec8 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

4. The infinite series C and S are defined by

\[\mathrm{C} = \cos\theta + \frac{1}{2}\cos 5\theta + \frac{1}{4}\cos 9\theta + \frac{1}{8}\cos 13\theta + \ldots\]\[\mathrm{S} = \sin\theta + \frac{1}{2}\sin 5\theta + \frac{1}{4}\sin 9\theta + \frac{1}{8}\sin 13\theta + \ldots\]

Given that the series C and S are both convergent,

(a) show that\[\mathrm{C} + \mathrm{iS} = \frac{2\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}}{2 - \mathrm{e}^{4\mathrm{i}\theta}}\] (4)
(b) Hence show that\[\mathrm{S} = \frac{4\sin\theta + 2\sin 3\theta}{5 - 4\cos 4\theta}\] (4)

A2 June 2025 Paper 2 Q13

AQACurrent spec10 marksDe Moivre's TheoremMatrices

13 The matrix \(\mathbf{M}\) is defined by \(\mathbf{M} = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & -\sqrt{3} \\ \sqrt{3} & 1 \end{bmatrix}\)

(a) The matrix \(\mathbf{M}\) represents an anticlockwise rotation about the origin through an angle \(\theta\), where \(0 \leqslant \theta \leqslant 2\pi\), followed by an enlargement, scale factor \(r\), with centre at the origin where \(r\) is a positive integer.

Find the value of \(r\) and the value of \(\theta\) [3 marks]

(b) It is given that \(\begin{bmatrix} u \\ v \end{bmatrix} = \mathbf{M}\begin{bmatrix} x \\ y \end{bmatrix}\)

Using the value of \(r\) and the value of \(\theta\) which you obtained in part (a), verify that

\[r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}(x + \mathrm{i}y) = u + \mathrm{i}v\] [3 marks]
(c) Hence, find the value of \(x\) and the value of \(y\) such that\[\mathbf{M}^8\begin{bmatrix} x \\ y \end{bmatrix} = \begin{bmatrix} 0 \\ 2 \end{bmatrix}\]

Give your answers in an exact form. [4 marks]

A2 June 2025 Paper 2 Q9

9

(a) It is given that, for the complex number \(z\),\[\left|\frac{z}{z + 1}\right| = 1\]

Find \(\mathrm{Re}(z)\) [3 marks]

(b) Show that the only solutions of the equation\[\left(\frac{w}{w + 1}\right)^3 = 1\]

are \(w = \dfrac{\mathrm{e}^{\frac{2\pi\mathrm{i}}{3}}}{1 - \mathrm{e}^{\frac{2\pi\mathrm{i}}{3}}}\) and \(w = \dfrac{\mathrm{e}^{-\frac{2\pi\mathrm{i}}{3}}}{1 - \mathrm{e}^{-\frac{2\pi\mathrm{i}}{3}}}\) [4 marks]

(c) Use the results of part (a) and part (b) to find \(\mathrm{Re}\left(\dfrac{\mathrm{e}^{\frac{2\pi\mathrm{i}}{3}}}{1 - \mathrm{e}^{\frac{2\pi\mathrm{i}}{3}}}\right)\)

Fully justify your answer. [2 marks]

AS June 2025 Paper 1 Q6

6 The complex numbers \(w\) and \(z\) are defined as follows:

\[w = 2(\cos 0.4 + \mathrm{i}\sin 0.4) \qquad \text{and} \qquad z = 6(\cos 1.2 + \mathrm{i}\sin 1.2)\]
(a) Express \(z^2\) in the form \(r(\cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta)\) [2 marks]
(b) Express \(\dfrac{z}{w}\) in the form \(r(\cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta)\) [2 marks]

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q13

AQACurrent spec9 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

13

(a) Use de Moivre’s theorem to show that\[\cos 3\theta = 4\cos^3\theta - 3\cos\theta\] [3 marks]
(b) Use de Moivre’s theorem to express \(\sin 3\theta\) in terms of \(\sin\theta\) [2 marks]
(c) Hence show that\[\cot 3\theta = \frac{\cot^3\theta - 3\cot\theta}{3\cot^2\theta - 1}\] [4 marks]

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q10

10 The complex numbers \(z\) and \(w\) are defined by

\[z = \cos\frac{\pi}{4} + \mathrm{i}\sin\frac{\pi}{4}\]

and

\[w = \cos\frac{\pi}{6} + \mathrm{i}\sin\frac{\pi}{6}\]

By evaluating the product \(zw\), show that

\[\tan\frac{5\pi}{12} = 2 + \sqrt{3}\]

[6 marks]

A2 June 2023 Paper 2 Q15

AQACurrent spec10 marksDe Moivre's TheoremSeries

15

(a) Given that \(z = \cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta\), use de Moivre’s theorem to show that\[z^n - z^{-n} = 2\mathrm{i}\sin n\theta\] [2 marks]
(b) The series \(S\) is defined as\[S = \sin\theta + \sin 3\theta + \ldots + \sin(2n - 1)\theta\]

Use part (a) to express \(S\) in the form

\[S = \frac{1}{2\mathrm{i}}(G_1) - \frac{1}{2\mathrm{i}}(G_2)\]

where each of \(G_1\) and \(G_2\) is a geometric series. [3 marks]

(c) Hence, show that\[S = \frac{\sin^2(n\theta)}{\sin\theta}\] [5 marks]

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q12

12 The Argand diagram shows the solutions to the equation \(z^5 = 1\)

Argand diagram with Re and Im axes showing five points: z1 on the positive real axis, z2 above and slightly right of the imaginary axis, z3 to the upper left, z4 to the lower left and z5 below and slightly right of the imaginary axis
(a) Solve the equation\[z^5 = 1\]

giving your answers in the form \(z = \cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta\), where \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\) [2 marks]

(b) Explain why the points on an Argand diagram which represent the solutions found in part (a) are the vertices of a regular pentagon. [2 marks]
(c) Show that if \(c = \cos\theta\), where \(z = \cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta\) is a solution to the equation \(z^5 = 1\), then \(c\) satisfies the equation\[16c^5 - 20c^3 + 5c - 1 = 0\] [5 marks]
(d) The Argand diagram above is repeated below.
Argand diagram with Re and Im axes showing the five points z1, z2, z3, z4 and z5

Explain, with reference to the Argand diagram, why the expression

\[16c^5 - 20c^3 + 5c - 1\]

has a repeated quadratic factor. [3 marks]

(e) \(O\) is the centre of a regular pentagon \(ABCDE\) such that \(OA = OB = OC = OD = OE = 1\) unit.
The distance from \(O\) to \(AB\) is \(h\)

By solving the equation \(16c^5 - 20c^3 + 5c - 1 = 0\), show that

\[h = \frac{\sqrt{5} + 1}{4}\] [5 marks]

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q2

2 Simplify

\[\frac{\cos\left(\dfrac{6\pi}{13}\right) + \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\dfrac{6\pi}{13}\right)}{\cos\left(\dfrac{2\pi}{13}\right) - \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\dfrac{2\pi}{13}\right)}\]

Tick (✓) one box. [1 mark]

  • \(\cos\left(\dfrac{8\pi}{13}\right) + \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\dfrac{8\pi}{13}\right)\)
  • \(\cos\left(\dfrac{8\pi}{13}\right) - \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\dfrac{8\pi}{13}\right)\)
  • \(\cos\left(\dfrac{4\pi}{13}\right) + \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\dfrac{4\pi}{13}\right)\)
  • \(\cos\left(\dfrac{4\pi}{13}\right) - \mathrm{i}\sin\left(\dfrac{4\pi}{13}\right)\)

A2 June 2021 Paper 2 Q13

AQACurrent spec16 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

13

(a) Two of the solutions to the equation \(\cos 6\theta = 0\) are \(\theta = \dfrac{\pi}{4}\) and \(\theta = \dfrac{3\pi}{4}\)

Find the other solutions to the equation \(\cos 6\theta = 0\) for \(0 \leqslant \theta \leqslant \pi\) [2 marks]

(b) Use de Moivre’s theorem to show that\[\cos 6\theta = 32\cos^6\theta - 48\cos^4\theta + 18\cos^2\theta - 1\] [5 marks]
(c) Use the fact that \(\theta = \dfrac{\pi}{4}\) and \(\theta = \dfrac{3\pi}{4}\) are solutions to the equation \(\cos 6\theta = 0\) to find a factor of \(32\cos^6\theta - 48\cos^4\theta + 18\cos^2\theta - 1\) in the form \((a\cos^2\theta + b)\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are integers. [4 marks]
(d) Hence show that\[\cos\left(\frac{11\pi}{12}\right) = -\sqrt{\frac{2 + \sqrt{3}}{4}}\] [5 marks]

A2 June 2020 Paper 1 Q6

6 Let \(w\) be the root of the equation \(z^7 = 1\) that has the smallest argument \(\alpha\) in the interval \(0 \lt \alpha \lt \pi\)

(a) Prove that \(w^n\) is also a root of the equation \(z^7 = 1\) for any integer \(n\). [1 mark]
(b) Prove that \(1 + w + w^2 + w^3 + w^4 + w^5 + w^6 = 0\) [2 marks]
(c) Show the positions of \(w\), \(w^2\), \(w^3\), \(w^4\), \(w^5\), and \(w^6\) on the Argand diagram below. [2 marks]
Blank Argand diagram with axes Re(z) and Im(z)
(d) Prove that\[\cos\frac{2\pi}{7} + \cos\frac{4\pi}{7} + \cos\frac{6\pi}{7} = -\frac{1}{2}\] [4 marks]

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q9

AQACurrent spec9 marksDe Moivre's TheoremMatrices

9

(a) Solve the equation \(z^3 = \sqrt{2} - \sqrt{6}\mathrm{i}\), giving your answers in the form \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) where \(r \gt 0\) and \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\) [5 marks]
(b) The transformation represented by the matrix \(\mathbf{M} = \begin{bmatrix} 5 & 1 \\ 1 & 3 \end{bmatrix}\) acts on the points on an Argand Diagram which represent the roots of the equation in part (a).

Find the exact area of the shape formed by joining the transformed points. [4 marks]

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q8

AQACurrent spec10 marksDe Moivre's TheoremIntegration

8

(a) If \(z = \cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta\), use de Moivre’s theorem to prove that\[z^n - \frac{1}{z^n} = 2\mathrm{i}\sin n\theta\] [3 marks]
(b) Express \(\sin^5\theta\) in terms of \(\sin 5\theta\), \(\sin 3\theta\) and \(\sin\theta\) [4 marks]
(c) Hence show that\[\int_0^{\frac{\pi}{3}} \sin^5\theta \,\mathrm{d}\theta = \frac{53}{480}\] [3 marks]

A2 June 2025 Paper 1 Q10

10 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

(a) Use de Moivre’s Theorem to show that, if \(\cos 5\theta \neq 0\),
\(\tan 5\theta \equiv \dfrac{\tan^5\theta - 10\tan^3\theta + 5\tan\theta}{5\tan^4\theta - 10\tan^2\theta + 1}\). [4]
(b)
(i) By considering the equation \(\tan 5\theta = 1\), use the result in part (a) to find the exact roots of the equation
\(t^4 - 4t^3 - 14t^2 - 4t + 1 = 0\).
Give the roots in the form \(t = \tan\phi\) where \(0 \lt \phi \lt \pi\). [4]
(ii) By first expressing \(t^4 - 4t^3 - 14t^2 - 4t + 1 = 0\) in the form \((t - 1)^4 = kt^2\), where \(k\) is a constant to be determined, show that
\(\tan\left(\dfrac{9}{20}\pi\right) = 1 + \sqrt{5} + \sqrt{5 + 2\sqrt{5}}\). [3]

A2 June 2024 Paper 2 Q9

OCR ACurrent spec12 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

9 In this question, the argument of a complex number is defined as being in the range \([0, 2\pi)\).

You are given that \(\omega_k\), where \(k = 0, 1, 2, \ldots, n - 1\), are the \(n\) \(n^{\text{th}}\) roots of unity for some integer \(n\), \(n \geqslant 3\), and that these are given in order of increasing argument (so that \(\omega_0 = 1\)).

(a) With the help of a diagram explain why \(\omega_k = (\omega_1)^k\) for \(k = 2, \ldots, n - 1\). [3]
(b) Using the identity given in part (a), show that \(\displaystyle\sum_{k=0}^{n-1}\omega_k = 0\). [2]
(c) Show that if \(z\) is a complex number then \(z + z^* = 2\operatorname{Re}(z)\). [1]
(d) Using the results from parts (b) and (c) show that \(\displaystyle\sum_{k=0}^{n-1}\operatorname{Re}(\omega_k) = 0\). [1]
(e) With the help of a diagram explain why \(\operatorname{Re}(\omega_k) = \operatorname{Re}(\omega_{n-k})\) for \(k = 1, 2, \ldots, n - 1\). [1]

You should now consider the case where \(n = 5\).

(f)
(i) Use parts (d) and (e) to deduce that \(\cos\dfrac{4\pi}{5} = a + b\cos\dfrac{2\pi}{5}\), for some rational constants \(a\) and \(b\). [2]
(ii) Hence determine the exact value of \(\cos\dfrac{2\pi}{5}\). [2]

A2 June 2024 Paper 2 Q2

OCR ACurrent spec6 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

2 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

(a) Solve the equation \(x^2 - 6x + 58 = 0\). Give your solutions in the form \(a + b\mathrm{i}\) where \(a\) and \(b\) are real numbers. [3]
(b) Determine, in exact form, \(\arg\left(-10 + \left(5\sqrt{12}\right)\mathrm{i}\right)^5\). [3]

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q9

OCR ACurrent spec14 marksDe Moivre's TheoremIntegration

9 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

(a) Use de Moivre’s theorem to determine constants \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) such that \(\sin^4\theta \equiv A\cos 4\theta + B\cos 2\theta + C\). [5]

The function f is defined by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \sin\left(4\sin^{-1}\left(x^{\frac{1}{5}}\right)\right) - 8\sin\left(2\sin^{-1}\left(x^{\frac{1}{5}}\right)\right) + 12\sin^{-1}\left(x^{\frac{1}{5}}\right), \qquad x \in \mathbb{R},\ 0 \leqslant x \lt 1.\]

(b) Show that \(\mathrm{f}^{\prime}(x) = \dfrac{32}{5\sqrt{1 - x^{\frac{2}{5}}}}\). [6]
Graph: curve starting on the positive y-axis and rising increasingly steeply towards the dashed vertical asymptote x = 1; the region R between the curve, the x-axis, x = 0 and x = 1 is shaded

The diagram shows the curve with equation \(y = \dfrac{1}{\sqrt{1 - x^{\frac{2}{5}}}}\) for \(0 \leqslant x \lt 1\) and the asymptote \(x = 1\). The region \(R\) is the unbounded region between the curve, the \(x\)-axis, the line \(x = 0\) and the line \(x = 1\).

You are given that the area of \(R\) is finite.

(c) Determine the exact area of \(R\). [3]

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q3

OCR ACurrent spec5 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

3

(a) Show that \(\dfrac{-3 + \sqrt{3}\,\mathrm{i}}{2} = \sqrt{3}\,\mathrm{e}^{\frac{5}{6}\pi\mathrm{i}}\). [2]
(b) Hence determine the exact roots of the equation \(z^5 = \dfrac{9\left(-3 + \sqrt{3}\,\mathrm{i}\right)}{2}\), giving the roots in the form \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) where \(r \gt 0\) and \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\). [3]

A2 June 2022 Paper 2 Q9

OCR ACurrent spec9 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

9 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

(a) Show that \(\mathrm{Re}\left(\mathrm{e}^{4\mathrm{i}\theta}\left(\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta} + \mathrm{e}^{-\mathrm{i}\theta}\right)^4\right) = a\cos 4\theta\cos^4\theta\), where \(a\) is an integer to be determined. [3]
(b) Hence show that \(\cos\dfrac{1}{12}\pi = \dfrac{1}{2}\sqrt[4]{b + c\sqrt{3}}\), where \(b\) and \(c\) are integers to be determined. [6]

A2 October 2021 Paper 1 Q5

OCR ACurrent spec4 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

5 Use de Moivre’s theorem to find the constants \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) in the identity
\(\sin^5\theta \equiv A\sin\theta + B\sin 3\theta + C\sin 5\theta\). [4]

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q9

9 You are given that the cubic equation \(2x^3 + px^2 + qx - 3 = 0\), where \(p\) and \(q\) are real numbers, has a complex root \(\alpha = 1 + \mathrm{i}\sqrt{2}\).

(a) Write down a second complex root, \(\beta\). [1]
(b) Determine the third root, \(\gamma\). [2]
(c) Find the value of \(p\) and the value of \(q\). [2]
(d) Show that if \(n\) is an integer then \(\alpha^n + \beta^n + \gamma^n = 2 \times 3^{\frac{1}{2}n} \times \cos n\theta + \dfrac{1}{2^n}\) where \(\tan\theta = \sqrt{2}\). [4]

A2 October 2020 Paper 2 Q8

OCR ACurrent spec9 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

8 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

The complex number \(-4 + \mathrm{i}\sqrt{48}\) is denoted by \(z\).

(a) Determine the cube roots of \(z\), giving the roots in exponential form. [6]

The points which represent the cube roots of \(z\) are denoted by \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) and these form a triangle in an Argand diagram.

(b) Write down the angles that any lines of symmetry of triangle \(ABC\) make with the positive real axis, justifying your answer. [3]

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q5

OCR ACurrent spec5 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

5 By expanding \(\left(z^2 + \dfrac{1}{z^2}\right)^3\), where \(z = \mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\), show that \(4\cos^3 2\theta = \cos 6\theta + 3\cos 2\theta\). [5]

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q4

OCR ACurrent spec4 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

4 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

(a) Determine the square roots of \(25\mathrm{i}\) in the form \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\), where \(0 \leqslant \theta \lt 2\pi\). [3]
(b) Illustrate the number \(25\mathrm{i}\) and its square roots on an Argand diagram. [1]

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q9

OCR ACurrent spec12 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

9 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

You are given the complex number \(\omega = \cos\frac{2}{5}\pi + \mathrm{i}\sin\frac{2}{5}\pi\) and the equation \(z^5 = 1\).

(a) Show that \(\omega\) is a root of the equation. [2]
(b) Write down the other four roots of the equation. [1]
(c) Show that \(\omega + \omega^2 + \omega^3 + \omega^4 = -1\). [2]
(d) Hence show that \(\left(\omega + \dfrac{1}{\omega}\right)^2 + \left(\omega + \dfrac{1}{\omega}\right) - 1 = 0\). [3]
(e) Hence determine the value of \(\cos\frac{2}{5}\pi\) in the form \(a + b\sqrt{c}\) where \(a\), \(b\) and \(c\) are rational numbers to be found. [4]

A2 June 2019 Paper 2 Q8

OCR ACurrent spec8 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

8 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

(a) By writing \(\sin\theta\) in terms of \(\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) and \(\mathrm{e}^{-\mathrm{i}\theta}\) show that \[\sin^6\theta = \tfrac{1}{32}(10 - 15\cos 2\theta + 6\cos 4\theta - \cos 6\theta).\] [5]
(b) Hence show that \(\sin\frac{1}{8}\pi = \dfrac{1}{2}\sqrt[6]{20 - 14\sqrt{2}}\). [3]

A2 June 2025 Paper 1 Q15

OCR MEICurrent spec9 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

15

(a) Show that \(\left(3 - \mathrm{e}^{4\mathrm{i}\theta}\right)\left(3 - \mathrm{e}^{-4\mathrm{i}\theta}\right) = a + b\cos 4\theta\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are integers to be determined. [2]

The infinite series \(C\) and \(S\) are defined as follows.

\(C = \cos\theta + \dfrac{1}{3}\cos 5\theta + \dfrac{1}{9}\cos 9\theta + \dfrac{1}{27}\cos 13\theta + \ldots\)

\(S = \sin\theta + \dfrac{1}{3}\sin 5\theta + \dfrac{1}{9}\sin 9\theta + \dfrac{1}{27}\sin 13\theta + \ldots\)

(b) Show that \(C + \mathrm{i}S = \dfrac{3\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}}{3 - \mathrm{e}^{4\mathrm{i}\theta}}\). [4]
(c) Hence show that \(C = \dfrac{9\cos\theta - 3\cos 3\theta}{10 - 6\cos 4\theta}\). [3]

A2 June 2025 Paper 1 Q9

OCR MEICurrent spec10 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

9 The figure below shows an Argand diagram with a regular pentagon ABCDE. The point A represents the real number 1. The point B represents the complex number \(w\).

Argand diagram: regular pentagon ABCDE centred at O, with A at 1 on the positive real axis, B in the first quadrant, C in the second, D in the third and E in the fourth quadrant
(a)
(i) Write down, in terms of \(w\), the complex numbers represented by the points C, D and E. [1]
(ii) Write down an equation whose roots are the complex numbers represented by the points A, B, C, D and E. [1]
(iii) Show that the sum of these roots is zero. [2]
(b)
(i) Find \(w\). Give your answer in the form \(r(\cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta)\), where \(r \gt 0\) and \(\theta = k\pi\), where \(k\) is a positive constant to be found. [1]
(ii) By considering the line segment AB, show that the length of each side of the pentagon is \(2\sin\dfrac{\pi}{5}\). [5]

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q13

OCR MEICurrent spec10 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

13 The complex number \(z\) is defined as \(z = \frac{1}{3}\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) where \(0 \lt \theta \lt \frac{1}{2}\pi\).

On an Argand diagram, the point O represents the complex number 0, and the points \(\mathrm{P}_1, \mathrm{P}_2, \mathrm{P}_3, \ldots\) represent the complex numbers \(z, z^2, z^3, \ldots\) respectively.

(a) Write down each of the following.
(i) The ratio of the lengths \(\mathrm{OP}_{n+1} : \mathrm{OP}_n\) [1]
(ii) The angle \(\mathrm{P}_{n+1}\mathrm{OP}_n\) [1]
(b)
(i) Show that \((3 - \mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta})(3 - \mathrm{e}^{-\mathrm{i}\theta}) = a + b\cos\theta\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are integers to be determined. [2]
(ii) By considering the sum to infinity of the series \(z + z^2 + z^3 + \ldots\), show that
\(\frac{1}{3}\sin\theta + \frac{1}{9}\sin 2\theta + \frac{1}{27}\sin 3\theta + \ldots = \dfrac{3\sin\theta}{10 - 6\cos\theta}\). [6]

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q12

OCR MEICurrent spec7 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

12 Show that \(\sin^5\theta = a\sin 5\theta + b\sin 3\theta + c\sin\theta\), where \(a\), \(b\) and \(c\) are constants to be determined. [7]

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q5

OCR MEICurrent spec7 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

5

(a) In this question you must show detailed reasoning.
Determine the sixth roots of \(-64\), expressed in \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\) form. [4]
(b) Represent the roots on the Argand diagram below.
Argand diagram from the Printed Answer Booklet: blank axes Re and Im crossing at the origin O
[3]

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q14

OCR MEICurrent spec8 marksDe Moivre's TheoremSeries

14

(a) Find \(\left(3 - \mathrm{e}^{2\mathrm{i}\theta}\right)\left(3 - \mathrm{e}^{-2\mathrm{i}\theta}\right)\) in terms of \(\cos 2\theta\). [2]
(b) Hence show that the sum of the infinite series \[\sin\theta + \frac{1}{3}\sin 3\theta + \frac{1}{9}\sin 5\theta + \frac{1}{27}\sin 7\theta + \ldots\] can be expressed as \(\dfrac{6\sin\theta}{5 - 3\cos 2\theta}\). [6]

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q11

OCR MEICurrent spec8 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

11 An Argand diagram with the point A representing a complex number \(z_1\) is shown below.

Argand diagram with axes Re and Im crossing at O; the point A representing z1 is in the first quadrant

The complex numbers \(z_2\) and \(z_3\) are \(z_1\mathrm{e}^{\frac{2}{3}\mathrm{i}\pi}\) and \(z_1\mathrm{e}^{\frac{4}{3}\mathrm{i}\pi}\) respectively.

(a)
(i) On the copy of the Argand diagram below, mark the points B and C representing the complex numbers \(z_2\) and \(z_3\). [2]
Copy of the Argand diagram from the Printed Answer Booklet: axes Re and Im crossing at O, with the point A representing z1 in the first quadrant
(ii) Show that \(z_1 + z_2 + z_3 = 0\). [2]
(b) Given now that \(z_1\), \(z_2\) and \(z_3\) are roots of the equation \(z^3 = 8\mathrm{i}\), find these three roots, giving your answers in the form \(a + \mathrm{i}b\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are real and exact. [4]

A2 October 2021 Paper 1 Q10

OCR MEICurrent spec13 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

10

(a) Show on an Argand diagram the points representing the three cube roots of unity. [2]
(b)
(i) Find the exact roots of the equation \(z^3 - 1 = \sqrt{3}\,\mathrm{i}\), expressing them in the form \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\), where \(r \gt 0\) and \(-\pi \lt \theta \lt \pi\). [5]
(ii) The points representing the cube roots of unity form a triangle \(\Delta_1\). The points representing the roots of the equation \(z^3 - 1 = \sqrt{3}\,\mathrm{i}\) form a triangle \(\Delta_2\).
State a sequence of two transformations that maps \(\Delta_1\) onto \(\Delta_2\). [2]
(iii) The three roots in part (b)(i) are \(z_1\), \(z_2\) and \(z_3\).
By simplifying \(z_1 + z_2 + z_3\), verify that the sum of these roots is zero. [2]
(iv) Hence show that \(\sin 20^\circ + \sin 140^\circ = \sin 100^\circ\). [2]

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q12

OCR MEICurrent spec8 marksDe Moivre's Theorem

12

(a) Given that \(z = \cos\theta + \mathrm{i}\sin\theta\), express \(z^n + \dfrac{1}{z^n}\) and \(z^n - \dfrac{1}{z^n}\) in simplified trigonometric form. [2]
(b) By considering \(\left(z + \dfrac{1}{z}\right)^3\left(z - \dfrac{1}{z}\right)^3\), find constants \(A\) and \(B\) such that\[\sin^3\theta\cos^3\theta = A\sin 6\theta + B\sin 2\theta.\] [6]

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q11

OCR MEICurrent spec8 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

11 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

In Fig. 11, the points A, B, C, D, E and F represent the complex sixth roots of 64 on an Argand diagram. The midpoints of AB, BC, CD, DE, EF and FA are G, H, I, J, K and L respectively.

Fig. 11: Argand diagram with axes Re and Im showing a regular hexagon ABCDEF centred at the origin, with A on the positive real axis, D on the negative real axis, B and C above the real axis and E and F below it
Fig. 11
(a) Write down, in exponential \((r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta})\) form, the complex numbers represented by the points A, B, C, D, E and F. [2]
(b) When these complex numbers are multiplied by the complex number \(w\), the resulting complex numbers are represented by the points G, H, I, J, K and L.
Find \(w\) in exponential form. [4]
(c) You are given that G, H, I, J, K and L represent roots of the equation \(z^6 = p\).
Find \(p\). [2]

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q16

OCR MEICurrent spec12 marksDe Moivre's TheoremSeries

16

(a) Show that \((2 - \mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta})(2 - \mathrm{e}^{-\mathrm{i}\theta}) = 5 - 4\cos\theta\). [3]

Series \(C\) and \(S\) are defined by

\[\begin{aligned} C &= \frac{1}{2}\cos\theta + \frac{1}{4}\cos 2\theta + \frac{1}{8}\cos 3\theta + \ldots + \frac{1}{2^n}\cos n\theta, \\ S &= \frac{1}{2}\sin\theta + \frac{1}{4}\sin 2\theta + \frac{1}{8}\sin 3\theta + \ldots + \frac{1}{2^n}\sin n\theta. \end{aligned}\]
(b) Show that \(C = \dfrac{2^n(2\cos\theta - 1) - 2\cos(n + 1)\theta + \cos n\theta}{2^n(5 - 4\cos\theta)}\). [9]

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q10

OCR MEICurrent spec8 marksComplex NumbersDe Moivre's Theorem

10 In this question you must show detailed reasoning.

(a) You are given that \(-1 + \mathrm{i}\) is a root of the equation \(z^3 = a + b\mathrm{i}\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are real numbers. Find \(a\) and \(b\). [3]
(b) Find all the roots of the equation in part (a), giving your answers in the form \(r\mathrm{e}^{\mathrm{i}\theta}\), where \(r\) and \(\theta\) are exact. [4]
(c) Chris says “the complex roots of a polynomial equation come in complex conjugate pairs”. Explain why this does not apply to the polynomial equation in part (a). [1]