A curve has equation y = ax^2 + 3x, when x= -1, the gradient of the curve is -5. Work out the value of a.

The gradient of a curve at a point is given by dy/dxDifferentiate the equationplug in the valuesdy/dx = 2ax + 3x = -1, dy/dx = -5-5 = 2a*-1 + 38 = 2aa = 4

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x^3 + 2x^2 - 9x - 18 = (x^2 - a^2)(x + b) where a,b are integers. Work out the three linear factors of x^3 + 2x^2 - 9x - 18. (Note: x^3 indicates x cubed and x^2 indicates x squared).