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