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4MA1/1HR Jun 2025, Question 15: Solving Linear Equations

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics A 4MA1 · Paper 1HR (Higher) · Calculator · 6 marks

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The question, in short

Solve an equation with two algebraic fractions equal to 23, showing working, then rewrite a negative-power expression involving √y in the form cyⁿ and find c and n.

Summarised in our own words. Use the official paper for the exact wording and any diagrams.

Part (a) · 4 marks

Solve (5a + 8)/3 − (2a + 5)/4 = 23 for a, showing clear algebraic working.

  1. 1Multiply every term by 12
  2. 24(5a + 8) − 3(2a + 5) = 276
  3. 320a + 32 − 6a − 15 = 276
  4. 414a + 17 = 276
  5. 514a = 259
  6. 6a = 18.5

Answer18.5

Part (b) · 2 marks

Express (√y ÷ 3)⁻¹ in the form cyⁿ and state the values of c and n.

  1. 1A power of −1 flips the fraction: (√y / 3)⁻¹ = 3/√y
  2. 2√y = y^(1/2), so 3/√y = 3y^(−1/2)
  3. 33y^(−1/2), so c = 3 and n = −1/2

Answer3y^(−1/2) or c = 3, n = −1/2

Stuck on a step? Read the free lesson: Solving Linear Equations

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