How Is the Value of k Determined in These Function Compositions?

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The value of k in the function compositions f(x) = x^2 - 2x + 3 and g(x) = k(x^2) + 1 is determined by evaluating gf(2) = 16. The correct calculation shows that f(2) results in 3, leading to g(3) = 9k + 1. The discrepancy arises from the markscheme, which incorrectly states 16 = 3k + 1, yielding k = 5, while the accurate calculation gives k = 15/9. This indicates a potential error in the markscheme's interpretation of the function composition.

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The functions f and g are defined by:

f(x) = x^2 - 2x +3

g(x) = k(x^2) + 1

Given that gf(2) = 16, find the value of k

My solution:

f(2) = 3

g(3) = 9k +1

9k + 1 = 16

k = 15/9

However, the markscheme quotes "16=3k+1" therefore k =5.

I am unable to understand how the markscheme came to this conclusion, please can someonebody help with this. The markscheme may have a mistake, which is what I am thinking!

Thanks
 
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Your solution looks fine to me. Looks like the key may have made a mistake of not squaring the 3 or something.
 
Yeah, it looks like the answer key didn't take into account the square.
 

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