Differentiation equation curve

[Trail_Builder]

Homework Statement

A curve has equation y = Ax^3 + Bx^2 + Cx + D, where A, B, C and D are constants.
Given that the curve has gradient -4 at the point (1,2) and gradient 8 at the point (-1,6), find A, B, C and D.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

y = Ax^3 + Bx^2 + Cx + D
dy/dx = 3Ax^2 + 2Bx + C
-4 = 3A + 2B + C (1)
8 = 3A - 2B + C (2)
-12 = 4B(3) = (1)-(2)
B = -3

Right here is where I get stuck. If i eliminate A or C, they both go at the same time :S. I think I'm missing a trick here or something.

hope you can help

thanks

 

[Hurkyl]

Is there any information in the problem you haven't used?

 

[Trail_Builder]

o wait, do i like substitute the y values in from the co-ordinates given?

 

[Trail_Builder]

right, did that, now i have D and B, but still can't get to the A and C because they always seem to cancel each other out when i stick them in simeltaneous equations :S


ahhh

 

[Hurkyl]

Maybe you're accidentally using the same equations twice? Now that you know B and D, try starting over and use all four equations again. (But plug in the known values for B and D)