First Order Differentials

Edexcel

AQA

OCR A

OCR MEI

A2 June 2025 Paper 1 Q8

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksFirst Order Differentials

8. A rambler starts a walk at the bottom of a hill at 10 am.

The rambler walks all the way to the top of the hill and then turns around and walks back down to the bottom of the hill.

The differential equation

\[\sin t\,\frac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} - x\cos t = A\sin 2t\sin t \qquad t \geqslant 0\]

where \(A\) is a constant, is used to model the vertical displacement, \(x\) metres, of the rambler from the bottom of the hill, \(t\) hours after the start of the walk.

Given that after 1 hour

  • the rambler has a vertical displacement of 213 m
  • \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} = 273.2\)
(a) determine the value of \(A\) to 3 significant figures. (1)
(b) Hence, determine the particular solution of the differential equation, giving your answer in the form \(x = \mathrm{f}(t)\) (5)
(c) Use the model to determine the time at which the rambler will return to the bottom of the hill. (3)

Given that the vertical displacement of the top of the hill is 300.68 m

(d) use the model to find the value of \(t\) when the rambler reaches the top of the hill. (2)
(e) Using your answers to parts (c) and (d), give a limitation of the model. (1)

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksFirst Order Differentials

5. A raindrop falls from rest from a cloud. The velocity, \(v\) m s\(^{-1}\) vertically downwards, of the raindrop, \(t\) seconds after the raindrop starts to fall, is modelled by the differential equation

\[(t + 2)\frac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} + 3v = k(t + 2) - 3 \qquad t \geqslant 0\]

where \(k\) is a positive constant.

(a) Solve the differential equation to show that\[v = \frac{k}{4}(t + 2) - 1 + \frac{4(2 - k)}{(t + 2)^3}\] (5)

Given that \(v = 4\) when \(t = 2\)

(b) determine, according to the model, the velocity of the raindrop 5 seconds after it starts to fall. (3)
(c) Comment on the validity of the model for very large values of \(t\) (1)

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q6

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksFirst Order DifferentialsIntegration

6. Water is flowing into and out of a large tank.

Initially the tank contains 10 litres of water.

The rate of flow of the water is modelled so that

  • there are \(V\) litres of water in the tank at time \(t\) minutes after the water begins to flow
  • water enters the tank at a rate of \(\left(3 - \dfrac{4}{1 + \mathrm{e}^{0.8t}}\right)\) litres per minute
  • water leaves the tank at a rate proportional to the volume of water remaining in the tank

Given that when \(t = 0\) the volume of water in the tank is decreasing at a rate of 3 litres per minute, use the model to

(a) show that the volume of water in the tank at time \(t\) satisfies\[\frac{\mathrm{d}V}{\mathrm{d}t} = 3 - \frac{4}{1 + \mathrm{e}^{0.8t}} - 0.4V\] (3)
(b) Determine \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}}{\mathrm{d}t}\left(\arctan\mathrm{e}^{0.4t}\right)\) (2)

Hence, by solving the differential equation from part (a),

(c) determine an equation for the volume of water in the tank at time \(t\).
Give your answer in simplest form as \(V = \mathrm{f}(t)\) (6)

After 10 minutes, the volume of water in the tank was 8 litres.

(d) Evaluate the model in light of this information. (1)

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec6 marksFirst Order Differentials

3.

(a) Determine the general solution of the differential equation\[\cos x\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} + y\sin x = \mathrm{e}^{2x}\cos^2 x\]giving your answer in the form \(y = \mathrm{f}(x)\) (3)

Given that \(y = 3\) when \(x = 0\)

(b) determine the smallest positive value of \(x\) for which \(y = 0\) (3)

A2 October 2021 Paper 1 Q8

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksFirst Order Differentials

8. Two different colours of paint are being mixed together in a container.

The paint is stirred continuously so that each colour is instantly dispersed evenly throughout the container.

Initially the container holds a mixture of 10 litres of red paint and 20 litres of blue paint.

The colour of the paint mixture is now altered by

  • adding red paint to the container at a rate of 2 litres per second
  • adding blue paint to the container at a rate of 1 litre per second
  • pumping fully mixed paint from the container at a rate of 3 litres per second.

Let \(r\) litres be the amount of red paint in the container at time \(t\) seconds after the colour of the paint mixture starts to be altered.

(a) Show that the amount of red paint in the container can be modelled by the differential equation\[\frac{\mathrm{d}r}{\mathrm{d}t} = 2 - \frac{r}{\alpha}\]where \(\alpha\) is a positive constant to be determined. (2)
(b) By solving the differential equation, determine how long it will take for the mixture of paint in the container to consist of equal amounts of red paint and blue paint, according to the model. Give your answer to the nearest second. (6)

It actually takes 9 seconds for the mixture of paint in the container to consist of equal amounts of red paint and blue paint.

(c) Use this information to evaluate the model, giving a reason for your answer. (1)

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksFirst Order Differentials

7. A sample of bacteria in a sealed container is being studied.

The number of bacteria, \(P\), in thousands, is modelled by the differential equation

\[(1 + t)\frac{\mathrm{d}P}{\mathrm{d}t} + P = t^{\frac{1}{2}}(1 + t)\]

where \(t\) is the time in hours after the start of the study.

Initially, there are exactly 5000 bacteria in the container.

(a) Determine, according to the model, the number of bacteria in the container 8 hours after the start of the study. (6)
(b) Find, according to the model, the rate of change of the number of bacteria in the container 4 hours after the start of the study. (4)
(c) State a limitation of the model. (1)

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q5

5. Two compounds, \(X\) and \(Y\), are involved in a chemical reaction. The amounts in grams of these compounds, \(t\) minutes after the reaction starts, are \(x\) and \(y\) respectively and are modelled by the differential equations

\[\begin{aligned}\frac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} &= -5x + 10y - 30\\[4pt] \frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}t} &= -2x + 3y - 4\end{aligned}\]
(a) Show that\[\frac{\mathrm{d}^2x}{\mathrm{d}t^2} + 2\frac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} + 5x = 50\] (3)
(b) Find, according to the model, a general solution for the amount in grams of compound \(X\) present at time \(t\) minutes. (6)
(c) Find, according to the model, a general solution for the amount in grams of compound \(Y\) present at time \(t\) minutes. (3)

Given that \(x = 2\) and \(y = 5\) when \(t = 0\)

(d) find
(i) the particular solution for \(x\),
(ii) the particular solution for \(y\).
(4)

A scientist thinks that the chemical reaction will have stopped after 8 minutes.

(e) Explain whether this is supported by the model. (1)

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec13 marksFirst Order Differentials

5. A tank at a chemical plant has a capacity of 250 litres. The tank initially contains 100 litres of pure water.

Salt water enters the tank at a rate of 3 litres every minute. Each litre of salt water entering the tank contains 1 gram of salt.

It is assumed that the salt water mixes instantly with the contents of the tank upon entry.

At the instant when the salt water begins to enter the tank, a valve is opened at the bottom of the tank and the solution in the tank flows out at a rate of 2 litres per minute.

Given that there are \(S\) grams of salt in the tank after \(t\) minutes,

(a) show that the situation can be modelled by the differential equation\[\frac{\mathrm{d}S}{\mathrm{d}t} = 3 - \frac{2S}{100 + t}\] (4)
(b) Hence find the number of grams of salt in the tank after 10 minutes. (5)

When the concentration of salt in the tank reaches 0.9 grams per litre, the valve at the bottom of the tank must be closed.

(c) Find, to the nearest minute, when the valve would need to be closed. (3)
(d) Evaluate the model. (1)

A2 June 2025 Paper 2 Q17

AQACurrent spec15 marksFirst Order Differentials

17 A sample of biological material is placed in a freezer, and the freezer is then turned on.

The initial temperature of the sample is 38 °C

The temperature \(u\) °C of the freezer, at time \(t\) minutes after it is turned on, is modelled by

\[u = 18 - 2t\]

The temperature \(y\) °C of the sample is modelled as decreasing at a rate which is proportional to the difference between the temperature of the sample and the temperature of the freezer.

Initially, the temperature of the sample is decreasing at a rate of 0.8 °C per minute.

(a) Show that \(y\) satisfies the differential equation\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}t} + 0.04y = 0.72 - 0.08t\] [3 marks]
(b) Find an expression for \(y\) in terms of \(t\) [7 marks]
(c) Find the time at which the freezer is 28 °C colder than the sample.

Give your answer in minutes and seconds. [4 marks]

(d) State one limitation of the model used. [1 mark]

A2 June 2025 Paper 2 Q6

AQACurrent spec3 marksFirst Order Differentials

6 A curve passes through the point \((2, k)\), where \(k \gt 1\)

The curve satisfies the differential equation

\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = \frac{x^2 - 3y}{xy}\]

Using Euler’s step by step method once, with starting point \((2, k)\) and a step length of 0.1, gives an estimate of \(y = 6.069\) when \(x = 2.1\)

Find the value of \(k\)

Give your answer to three decimal places. [3 marks]

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q14

14 Solve the differential equation

\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} + y\tanh x = \sinh^3 x\]

given that \(y = 3\) when \(x = \ln 2\)

Give your answer in an exact form. [7 marks]

A2 June 2024 Paper 2 Q9

AQACurrent spec4 marksFirst Order Differentials

9 A curve passes through the point \((-2, 4.73)\) and satisfies the differential equation

\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = \frac{y^2 - x^2}{2x + 3y}\]

Use Euler’s step by step method once, and then the midpoint formula

\[y_{r+1} = y_{r-1} + 2h\mathrm{f}(x_r, y_r), \quad x_{r+1} = x_r + h\]

once, each with a step length of 0.02, to estimate the value of \(y\) when \(x = -1.96\)

Give your answer to five significant figures. [4 marks]

A2 June 2022 Paper 2 Q9

AQACurrent spec14 marksFirst Order Differentials

9

(a) A curve passes through the point \((5, 12.3)\) and satisfies the differential equation\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = (x^2 - 9)^{\frac{1}{2}} + \frac{2xy}{x^2 - 9} \qquad x \gt 3\]

Use Euler’s step by step method once, and then the midpoint formula

\[y_{r+1} = y_{r-1} + 2h\mathrm{f}(x_r, y_r), \quad x_{r+1} = x_r + h\]

once, each with a step length of 0.1, to estimate the value of \(y\) when \(x = 5.2\)

Give your answer to six significant figures. [4 marks]

(b)
(i) Find the general solution of the differential equation\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = (x^2 - 9)^{\frac{1}{2}} + \frac{2xy}{x^2 - 9} \qquad (x \gt 3)\] [6 marks]
(ii) Given that \(y\) satisfies the differential equation in part (b)(i) and that \(y = 12.3\) when \(x = 5\), find the value of \(y\) when \(x = 5.2\)

Give your answer to six significant figures. [3 marks]

(c) Comment on the accuracy of your answer to part (a). [1 mark]

A2 June 2021 Paper 2 Q10

AQACurrent spec13 marksFirst Order Differentials

10 In a colony of seabirds, there are \(y\) birds at time \(t\) years.

(a) The rate of reduction in the number of birds due to birds dying or leaving the colony is proportional to the number of birds.

In one year the reduction in the number of birds due to birds dying or leaving the colony is equal to 16% of the number of birds at the start of the year.

If no birds are born or join the colony, find the constant \(k\) such that

\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}t} = -ky\]

Give your answer to three significant figures. [4 marks]

(b) A wildlife protection group takes measures to support the colony.

The rate of reduction in the number of birds due to birds dying or leaving the colony is the same as in part (a), but in addition:

  • The rate of increase in the number of birds due to births is \(20t\) per year.
  • The wildlife protection group brings 45 birds into the colony each year.

Write down a first-order differential equation for \(y\) and \(t\) [2 marks]

(c) The initial number of birds is 340

Solve your differential equation from part (b) to find \(y\) in terms of \(t\) [5 marks]

(d) Describe two limitations of the model you have used. [2 marks]

A2 June 2021 Paper 1 Q8

AQACurrent spec6 marksFirst Order Differentials

8 A particle of mass 4 kg moves horizontally in a straight line.

At time \(t\) seconds the velocity of the particle is \(v\) m s−1

The following horizontal forces act on the particle:

  • a constant driving force of magnitude 1.8 newtons
  • another driving force of magnitude \(30\sqrt{t}\) newtons
  • a resistive force of magnitude \(0.08v^2\) newtons

When \(t = 70\), \(v = 54\)

Use Euler’s method with a step length of 0.5 to estimate the velocity of the particle after 71 seconds.

Give your answer to four significant figures. [6 marks]

A2 June 2020 Paper 2 Q12

12

(a) Given that \(I = \displaystyle\int_a^b \mathrm{e}^{2t}\sin t\,\mathrm{d}t\), show that\[I = \Big[q\mathrm{e}^{2t}\sin t + r\mathrm{e}^{2t}\cos t\Big]_a^b\]

where \(q\) and \(r\) are rational numbers to be found. [6 marks]

(b) A small object is initially at rest. The subsequent motion of the object is modelled by the differential equation\[\frac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} + v = 5\mathrm{e}^t\sin t\]

where \(v\) is the velocity at time \(t\).

Find the speed of the object when \(t = 2\pi\), giving your answer in exact form. [6 marks]

A2 June 2020 Paper 1 Q10

10

(a) Find the general solution of the differential equation\[\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} + \frac{2y}{x} = \frac{x + 3}{x(x - 1)(x^2 + 3)} \qquad (x \gt 1)\] [8 marks]
(b) Find the particular solution for which \(y = 0\) when \(x = 3\)

Give your answer in the form \(y = \mathrm{f}(x)\) [2 marks]

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q11

11 Find the general solution of the differential equation

\[x\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} - 2y = \frac{x^3}{\sqrt{4 - 2x - x^2}}\]

where \(0 \lt x \lt \sqrt{5} - 1\) [7 marks]

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q10

OCR ACurrent spec10 marksFirst Order Differentials

10 A particle \(B\), of mass 3 kg, moves in a straight line and has velocity \(v\,\mathrm{m\,s^{-1}}\).

At time \(t\) seconds, where \(0 \leqslant t \lt \frac{1}{4}\pi\), a variable force of \(-(15\sin 4t + 6v\tan 2t)\) Newtons is applied to \(B\). There are no other forces acting on \(B\). Initially, when \(t = 0\), \(B\) has velocity \(4.5\,\mathrm{m\,s^{-1}}\).

The motion of \(B\) can be modelled by the differential equation \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} + P(t)v = Q(t)\) where \(P(t)\) and \(Q(t)\) are functions of \(t\).

(a) Find the functions \(P(t)\) and \(Q(t)\). [2]
(b) Using an integrating factor, determine the first time at which \(B\) is stationary according to the model. [8]

A2 June 2023 Paper 2 Q8

OCR ACurrent spec11 marksFirst Order Differentials

8 A surge in the current, \(I\) units, through an electrical component at a time, \(t\) seconds, is to be modelled. The surge starts when \(t = 0\) and there is initially no current through the component. When the current has surged for 1 second it is measured as being 5 units. While the surge is occurring, \(I\) is modelled by the following differential equation.

\[\left(2t - t^2\right)\dfrac{\mathrm{d}I}{\mathrm{d}t} = \left(2t - t^2\right)^{\frac{3}{2}} - 2(t - 1)I\]

(a) By using an integrating factor show that, according to the model, while the surge is occurring, \(I\) is given by \(I = \left(2t - t^2\right)\left(\sin^{-1}(t - 1) + 5\right)\). [6]

The surge lasts until there is again no current through the component.

(b) Determine the length of time that the surge lasts according to the model. [2]
(c) Determine, according to the model, the rate of increase of the current at the start of the surge. Give your answer in an exact form. [3]

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q8

8 A biologist is studying the effect of pesticides on crops. On a certain farm pesticide is regularly applied to a particular crop which grows in soil. Over time, pesticide is transferred between the crop and the soil at a rate which depends on the amount of pesticide in both the crop and the soil. The amount of pesticide in the crop after \(t\) days is \(x\) grams. The amount of pesticide in the soil after \(t\) days is \(y\) grams. Initially, when \(t = 0\), there is no pesticide in either the crop or the soil.

At first it is assumed that no pesticide is lost from the system. The biologist further assumes that pesticide is added to the crop at a constant rate of \(k\) grams per day, where \(k \gt 6\).

After collecting some initial data, the biologist suggests that for \(t \geqslant 0\), this situation can be modelled by the following pair of first order linear differential equations.

\(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} = -2x + 78y + k\)

\(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}t} = 2x - 78y\)

(a)
(i) Show that \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}^2x}{\mathrm{d}t^2} + 80\dfrac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} = 78k\). [2]
(ii) Determine the particular solution for \(x\) in terms of \(k\) and \(t\). [7]

If more than 250 grams of pesticide is found in the crop, then it will fail food safety standards.

(iii) The crop is tested 50 days after the pesticide is first added to it.
Explain why, according to this model, the crop will fail food safety standards as a result of this test. [1]

Further data collection suggests that some pesticide decays in the soil and so is lost from the system. The model is refined in light of this data. The particular solution for \(x\) for this refined model is

\(x = k\left(20 - \mathrm{e}^{-41t}\left(20\cosh\left(\sqrt{1677}\,t\right) + \dfrac{819}{\sqrt{1677}}\sinh\left(\sqrt{1677}\,t\right)\right)\right)\).

(b) Given now that \(k \lt 12\), determine whether the crop will fail food safety standards in the long run according to this refined model. [2]

In the refined model, it is still assumed that pesticide is added to the crop at a constant rate.

(c) Suggest a reason why it might be more realistic to model the addition of pesticide as not being at a constant rate. [1]

A2 October 2021 Paper 2 Q8

OCR ACurrent spec16 marksFirst Order Differentials

8 A particle \(P\) of mass 2 kg can only move along the straight line segment \(OA\), where \(OA\) is on a rough horizontal surface. The particle is initially at rest at \(O\) and the distance \(OA\) is 0.9 m.

When the time is \(t\) seconds the displacement of \(P\) from \(O\) is \(x\) m and the velocity of \(P\) is \(v\) m s−1.

\(P\) is subject to a force of magnitude \(4\mathrm{e}^{-2t}\) N in the direction of \(A\) for any \(t \geqslant 0\). The resistance to the motion of \(P\) is modelled as being proportional to \(v\).

At the instant when \(t = \ln 2\), \(v = 0.5\) and the resultant force on \(P\) is 0 N.

(a) Show that, according to the model, \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} + v = 2\mathrm{e}^{-2t}\). [3]
(b) Find an expression for \(v\) in terms of \(t\) for \(t \geqslant 0\). [5]
(c) By considering the behaviour of \(v\) as \(t\) becomes large explain why, according to the model, \(P\)’s speed must reach a maximum value for some \(t \gt 0\). [2]
(d) Determine the maximum speed considered in part (c). [2]
(e) Determine the greatest value of \(t\) for which the model is valid. [4]

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q10

OCR ACurrent spec13 marksFirst Order Differentials

10 A particle of mass 0.5 kg is initially at point \(O\). It moves from rest along the \(x\)-axis under the influence of two forces \(F_1\) N and \(F_2\) N which act parallel to the \(x\)-axis. At time \(t\) seconds the velocity of the particle is \(v\,\mathrm{m\,s^{-1}}\).
\(F_1\) is acting in the direction of motion of the particle and \(F_2\) is resisting motion.

In an initial model

  • \(F_1\) is proportional to \(t\) with constant of proportionality \(\lambda \gt 0\),
  • \(F_2\) is proportional to \(v\) with constant of proportionality \(\mu \gt 0\).
(a) Show that the motion of the particle can be modelled by the following differential equation.\[\frac{1}{2}\frac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} = \lambda t - \mu v\] [2]
(b) Solve the differential equation in part (a), giving the particular solution for \(v\) in terms of \(t\), \(\lambda\) and \(\mu\). [7]

You are now given that \(\lambda = 2\) and \(\mu = 1\).

(c) Find a formula for an approximation for \(v\) in terms of \(t\) when \(t\) is large. [2]

In a refined model

  • \(F_1\) is constant, acting in the direction of motion with magnitude 2 N,
  • \(F_2\) is as before with \(\mu = 1\).
(d) Write down a differential equation for the refined model. [1]
(e) Without solving the differential equation in part (d), write down what will happen to the velocity in the long term according to this refined model. [1]

A2 June 2019 Paper 2 Q5

OCR ACurrent spec11 marksFirst Order Differentials

5 A particle of mass 2 kg moves along the \(x\)-axis. At time \(t\) seconds the velocity of the particle is \(v\,\mathrm{m\,s^{-1}}\).

The particle is subject to two forces.

  • One acts in the positive \(x\)-direction with magnitude \(\frac{1}{2}t\,\mathrm{N}\).
  • One acts in the negative \(x\)-direction with magnitude \(v\,\mathrm{N}\).
(a) Show that the motion of the particle can be modelled by the differential equation \[\frac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} + \frac{1}{2}v = \frac{1}{4}t.\] [1]

The particle is at rest when \(t = 0\).

(b) Find \(v\) in terms of \(t\). [5]
(c) Find the velocity of the particle when \(t = 2\). [1]

When \(t = 2\) the force acting in the positive \(x\)-direction is replaced by a constant force of magnitude \(\frac{1}{2}\,\mathrm{N}\) in the same direction.

(d) Refine the differential equation given in part (a) to model the motion for \(t \geqslant 2\). [1]
(e) Use the refined model from part (d) to find an exact expression for \(v\) in terms of \(t\) for \(t \geqslant 2\). [3]

A2 June 2025 Paper 1 Q17

17 A researcher is modelling the height of a particular type of tree over its lifetime.

Data suggests that the maximum possible height of this type of tree over its lifetime is double the height of the tree 5 years after planting.

It is given that, \(t\) years after planting a seed for this type of tree, the corresponding height of the tree is \(h\) m, and that \(h = 0\) when \(t = 0\).

(a) The researcher first models the height of the tree by assuming that the rate of increase of \(h\) is proportional to \((20 - h)\), with constant of proportionality 0.2.
(i) Write down the first order differential equation for this model. [1]
(ii) Show that this model predicts that the maximum possible height of the tree is 20 m. [1]
(iii) Show by integration that \(h = 20\left(1 - \mathrm{e}^{-0.2t}\right)\). [4]
(iv) Determine whether this model’s prediction for the height of the tree 5 years after planting is consistent with the maximum possible height of the tree being 20 m. [2]
(b) The researcher refines the model for the height of the tree using the following second order differential equation.
\(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}^2h}{\mathrm{d}t^2} + 0.3\dfrac{\mathrm{d}h}{\mathrm{d}t} + 0.02h = 0.4\)
(i) Determine the general solution of this second order differential equation. [4]
(ii) Show that the refined model also predicts that the maximum possible height of the tree is 20 m. [1]

Further research determines that the initial rate of growth of this type of tree is 2.9 metres per year.

(iii) By applying the initial conditions to find the particular solution of this differential equation, determine whether the refined model’s prediction for the height of the tree 5 years after planting is consistent with the maximum possible height of the tree being 20 m. [5]

A2 June 2025 Paper 1 Q13

OCR MEICurrent spec11 marksFirst Order Differentials

13 The gradient of a curve \(y = \mathrm{f}(x)\) satisfies the differential equation \(x\dfrac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} - 2y = 2 + x^2\).

(a) Show that the integrating factor for this differential equation is \(x^{-2}\). [3]
(b) You are given that the curve passes through the point \((1, 0)\).
By solving this differential equation, determine the exact \(x\)-coordinate of the stationary point on the curve \(y = \mathrm{f}(x)\). [8]

A2 June 2024 Paper 1 Q17

OCR MEICurrent spec20 marksFirst Order Differentials

17 In an industrial process, a container initially contains 1000 litres of liquid. Liquid is drawn from the bottom of the container at a rate of 5 litres per minute. At the same time, salt is added to the top of the container at a constant rate of 10 grams per minute. After \(t\) minutes the mass of salt in the container is \(x\) grams, and you are given that \(x = 0\) when \(t = 0\).

In modelling the situation, it is assumed that the salt dissolves instantly and uniformly in the liquid, and that adding the salt does not change the volume of the liquid.

(a)
(i) Show that the concentration of salt in the liquid after \(t\) minutes is \(\dfrac{x}{1000 - 5t}\) grams per litre. [1]
(ii) Hence show that the mass of salt in the container is given by the differential equation
\(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} + \dfrac{x}{200 - t} = 10\). [3]
(b) Show by integration that \(x = 10(200 - t)\ln\left(\dfrac{200}{200 - t}\right)\). [8]
(c)
(i) Hence determine the mass of salt in the container when half the liquid is drawn off. [2]
(ii) Determine also the time at which the mass of salt in the container is greatest. [5]
(d) When the process is run, it is found that the concentration of salt over time is higher than predicted by the model.
Suggest a reason for this. [1]

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q17

17 Two similar species, X and Y, of a small mammal compete for food and habitat. A model of this competition assumes, in a particular area, the following.

  • In the absence of the other species, each species would increase at a rate proportional to the number present with the same constant of proportionality in each case.
  • The competition reduces the rate of increase of each species by an amount proportional to the number of the other species present.

So if the numbers of species X and Y present at time \(t\) years are \(x\) and \(y\) respectively, the model gives the differential equations

\[\dfrac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} = kx - ay \quad \text{and} \quad \dfrac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}t} = ky - bx,\]

where \(k\), \(a\) and \(b\) are positive constants.

(a)
(i) Show that the general solution for \(x\) is \(x = A\mathrm{e}^{(k+n)t} + B\mathrm{e}^{(k-n)t}\), where \(n = \sqrt{ab}\) and \(A\) and \(B\) are arbitrary constants. [6]
(ii) Hence find the general solution for \(y\) in terms of \(A\), \(B\), \(k\), \(n\), \(a\) and \(t\). [2]

Observations suggest that suitable values for the model are \(k = 0.015\), \(a = 0.04\) and \(b = 0.01\). You should use these values in the rest of this question.

(b) When \(t = 0\), the numbers present of species X and Y in this area are \(x_0\) and \(y_0\) respectively.
(i) Show that \(x = \tfrac{1}{2}(x_0 - 2y_0)\mathrm{e}^{0.035t} + \tfrac{1}{2}(x_0 + 2y_0)\mathrm{e}^{-0.005t}\). [3]
(ii) Hence show that \(y = \tfrac{1}{4}(x_0 + 2y_0)\mathrm{e}^{-0.005t} - \tfrac{1}{4}(x_0 - 2y_0)\mathrm{e}^{0.035t}\). [1]
(c) Use initial values \(x_0 = 500\) and \(y_0 = 300\) with the results in part (b) to determine what the model predicts for each of the following questions.
(i) What numbers of each species will be present after 25 years? [2]
(ii) In this question you must show detailed reasoning.
When will the numbers of the two species be equal? [4]
(iii) Does either species ever disappear from the area? Justify your answer. [3]
(d) Different initial values will apply in other areas where the two species compete, but previous studies indicate that one species or the other will eventually dominate in any given area.
(i) Identify a relationship between \(x_0\) and \(y_0\) where the model does not predict this outcome. [1]
(ii) Explain what the model predicts in the long term for this exceptional case. [2]

A2 June 2023 Paper 1 Q11

11 Solve the differential equation \(\cosh x\dfrac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} - 2y\sinh x = \cosh x\), given that \(y = 1\) when \(x = 0\). [7]

A2 June 2022 Paper 1 Q12

OCR MEICurrent spec9 marksFirst Order Differentials

12 Solve the differential equation \(\left(4 - x^2\right)\dfrac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} - xy = 1\), given that \(y = 1\) when \(x = 0\), giving your answer in the form \(y = \mathrm{f}(x)\). [9]

A2 October 2021 Paper 1 Q17

OCR MEICurrent spec20 marksFirst Order Differentials

17 In a chemical process, a vessel contains 1 litre of pure water. A liquid chemical is then passed into the top of the vessel at a constant rate of \(a\) litres per minute and thoroughly mixed with the water. At the same time, the resulting mixture is drawn from the bottom of the vessel at a constant rate of \(b\) litres per minute. You may assume that the chemical mixes instantly and uniformly with the water. After \(t\) minutes, the mixture in the vessel contains \(x\) litres of the chemical.

(a)
(i) Show that the proportion of chemical present in the vessel after \(t\) minutes is \(\dfrac{x}{1 + (a - b)t}\). [2]
(ii) Hence show that \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}x}{\mathrm{d}t} + \dfrac{bx}{1 + (a - b)t} = a\). [2]
(b) First, consider the case where \(b = a\).
(i) Solve the differential equation to find \(x\) in terms of \(a\) and \(t\). [4]
(ii) Given that after 1 minute the vessel contains equal amounts of water and chemical, find the rate of inflow of chemical. [2]
(c) Now consider the case where \(b = 2a\).
(i) Explain why the differential equation in part (a)(ii) is now invalid for \(t \geqslant \dfrac{1}{a}\). [1]
(ii) Find the maximum amount of chemical in the vessel. [9]

A2 October 2020 Paper 1 Q16

OCR MEICurrent spec25 marksFirst Order Differentials

16 The population density \(P\), in suitable units, of a certain bacterium at time \(t\) hours is to be modelled by a differential equation. Initially, the population density is zero, and its long-term value is \(A\).

(a) One simple model is to assume that the rate of change of population density is directly proportional to \(A - P\).
(i) Formulate a differential equation for this model. [1]
(ii) Verify that \(P = A(1 - \mathrm{e}^{-kt})\), where \(k\) is a positive constant, satisfies
  • this differential equation,
  • the initial condition,
  • the long-term condition.
[3]

An alternative model uses the differential equation

\[\frac{\mathrm{d}P}{\mathrm{d}t} - \frac{P}{t(1 + t^2)} = \mathrm{Q}(t),\]

where \(\mathrm{Q}(t)\) is a function of \(t\).

(b) Find the integrating factor for this differential equation, showing that it can be written in the form \(\dfrac{\sqrt{1 + t^2}}{t}\). [8]
(c) Suppose that \(\mathrm{Q}(t) = 0\).
(i) Show that \(P = \dfrac{At}{\sqrt{1 + t^2}}\). [4]
(ii) Find the time predicted by this model for the population density to reach half its long-term value. Give your answer correct to the nearest minute. [2]
(d) Now suppose that \(\mathrm{Q}(t) = \dfrac{t\mathrm{e}^{-t}}{\sqrt{1 + t^2}}\).
Show that \(P = \dfrac{At - t\mathrm{e}^{-t}}{\sqrt{1 + t^2}}\). [You may assume that \(\displaystyle\lim_{t \to \infty} t\mathrm{e}^{-t} = 0\).] [5]

It is found that the long-term value of \(P\) is 10, and \(P\) reaches half this value after 37 minutes.

(e) Determine which of the models proposed in parts (c) and (d) is more consistent with these data. [2]

A2 June 2019 Paper 1 Q17

OCR MEICurrent spec22 marksFirst Order Differentials

17 A cyclist accelerates from rest for 5 seconds then brakes for 5 seconds, coming to rest at the end of the 10 seconds. The total mass of the cycle and rider is \(m\) kg, and at time \(t\) seconds, for \(0 \leqslant t \leqslant 10\), the cyclist’s velocity is \(v\,\mathrm{m\,s^{-1}}\).

A resistance to motion, modelled by a force of magnitude \(0.1mv\) N, acts on the cyclist during the whole 10 seconds.

(a) Explain why modelling the resistance to motion in this way is likely to be more realistic than assuming this force is constant. [1]

During the braking phase of the motion, for \(5 \leqslant t \leqslant 10\), the brakes apply an additional constant resistance force of magnitude \(2m\) N and the cyclist does not provide any driving force.

(b) Show that, for \(5 \leqslant t \leqslant 10\), \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} + 0.1v = -2\). [1]
(c)
(i) Solve the differential equation in part (b). [5]
(ii) Hence find the velocity of the cyclist when \(t = 5\). [1]

During the acceleration phase \((0 \leqslant t \leqslant 5)\), the cyclist applies a driving force of magnitude directly proportional to \(t\).

(d) Show that, for \(0 \leqslant t \leqslant 5\), \(\dfrac{\mathrm{d}v}{\mathrm{d}t} + 0.1v = \lambda t\), where \(\lambda\) is a positive constant. [1]
(e)
(i) Show by integration that, for \(0 \leqslant t \leqslant 5\), \(v = 10\lambda(t - 10 + 10\mathrm{e}^{-0.1t})\). [5]
(ii) Hence find \(\lambda\). [2]
(f) Find the total distance, to the nearest metre, travelled by the cyclist during the motion. [6]