2023

AP Calculus AB
®

Scoring Guidelines

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AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Part A (AB or BC): Graphing calculator required

Question 1 9 points

General Scoring Notes

The model solution is presented using standard mathematical notation.

Answers (numeric or algebraic) need not be simplified. Answers given as a decimal approximation should be
correct to three places after the decimal point. Within each individual free-response question, at most one
point is not earned for inappropriate rounding.

t
0 60 90 120 135 150
(seconds)
f (t )
0 0.1 0.15 0.1 0.05 0
(gallons per second)

A customer at a gas station is pumping gasoline into a gas tank. The rate of flow of gasoline is modeled by a
differentiable function f , where f ( t ) is measured in gallons per second and t is measured in seconds since
pumping began. Selected values of f ( t ) are given in the table.

Model Solution Scoring

(a) 135
Using correct units, interpret the meaning of ∫60 f ( t ) dt in the context of the problem. Use a right

Riemann sum with the three subintervals [ 60, 90] , [90, 120] , and [120, 135] to approximate the
135
value of ∫60 f ( t ) dt.

135 Interpretation with 1 point

∫60 f ( t ) dt represents the total number of gallons of gasoline
units
pumped into the gas tank from time t = 60 seconds to time
t = 135 seconds.
135 Form of Riemann 1 point
∫60 f ( t ) dt
sum
≈ f ( 90 )( 90 − 60 ) + f (120 )(120 − 90 ) + f (135 )(135 − 120 )
Answer 1 point
= ( 0.15 )( 30 ) + ( 0.1)( 30 ) + ( 0.05 )(15 ) = 8.25
Scoring notes:
• To earn the first point the response must reference gallons of gasoline added/pumped and the time
interval t = 60 to t = 135.
• To earn the second point at least five of the six factors in the Riemann sum must be correct.
• If there is any error in the Riemann sum, the response does not earn the third point.
• A response of ( 0.15 )( 30 ) + ( 0.1)( 30 ) + ( 0.05 )(15 ) earns both the second and third points, unless
there is a subsequent error in simplification, in which case the response would earn only the
second point.

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

• A response that presents a correct value with accompanying work that shows the three products in
the Riemann sum but does not show all six of the factors and/or the sum process, does not earn the
second point but does earn the third point. For example, responses of either 4.5 + 3.0 + 0.75 or
( 0.15 )( 30 ) , 0.1( 30 ) , 0.05 (15 ) → 8.25 earn the third point but not the second.
• A response of f ( 90 )( 90 − 60 ) + f (120 )(120 − 90 ) + f (135 )(135 − 120 ) =
8.25 earns both the
second and the third points.
• A response that presents an answer of only 8.25 does not earn either the second or third point.
• A response that provides a completely correct left Riemann sum with accompanying work,
f ( 60 )( 30 ) + f ( 90 )( 30 ) + f (120 )(15 ) =
9, or ( 0.1)( 30 ) + ( 0.15 )( 30 ) + ( 0.1)(15 ) earns 1 of the
last 2 points. A response with any errors or missing factors in a left Riemann sum earns neither of
the last 2 points.
Total for part (a) 3 points
(b) Must there exist a value of c, for 60 < c < 120, such that f ′( c ) = 0 ? Justify your answer.

f is differentiable. ⇒ f is continuous on [ 60, 120]. f (120 ) − f ( 60 ) =

0 1 point

Answer with 1 point

f (120 ) − f ( 60 ) 0.1 − 0.1 justification
= = 0
120 − 60 60

By the Mean Value Theorem, there must exist a c, for

60 < c < 120, such that f ′( c ) = 0.

Scoring notes:
• To earn the first point a response must present either f (120 ) − f ( 60 ) =
0, 0.1 − 0.1 =
0 (perhaps
as the numerator of a quotient), or f ( 60 ) = f (120 ) .
• To earn the second point a response must:
o have earned the first point,
o state that f is continuous because f is differentiable (or equivalent), and
o answer “yes” in some way.
• A response may reference either the Mean Value Theorem or Rolle’s Theorem.
• A response that references the Intermediate Value Theorem cannot earn the second point.
Total for part (b) 2 points
(c) The rate of flow of gasoline, in gallons per second, can also be modeled by

g (t ) =
t
( ) ( )
500
 t 2
cos 
 120 
 for 0 ≤ t ≤ 150. Using this model, find the average rate of flow of

gasoline over the time interval 0 ≤ t ≤ 150. Show the setup for your calculations.

1 150 Average value 1 point

150 − 0 ∫0
g ( t ) dt
formula
= 0.0959967 Answer 1 point

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines
The average rate of flow of gasoline, in gallons per second, is
0.096 (or 0.095 ).
Scoring notes:

• The exact value of

1 150
∫
150 0
g ( t ) dt is
12
125
sin ( )
25
16
.

• A response may present the average value formula in single or multiple steps. For example, the
150
following response earns both points: ∫0 g ( t ) dt = 14.399504 so the average rate is 0.0959967.

• A response that presents the average value formula in multiple steps but provides incorrect or
150 14.399504
incomplete communication (e.g., =
0 ∫ g ( t ) dt = 0.0959967 ) earns 1 out of
150
2 points.
150
• A response of ∫0 g (t ) dt = 0.0959967 does not earn either point.

• Degree mode: A response that presents answers obtained by using a calculator in degree mode
does not earn the first point it would have otherwise earned. The response is generally eligible for
all subsequent points (unless no answer is possible in degree mode or the question is made simpler
1 150
by using degree mode). In degree mode,
150 0 ∫
g ( t ) dt = 0.149981 or 0.002618.

Total for part (c) 2 points

(d) Using the model g defined in part (c), find the value of g ′(140 ) . Interpret the meaning of your
answer in the context of the problem.
g ′(140 ) ≈ −0.004908 g ′(140 ) 1 point
g ′(140 ) = −0.005 (or −0.004 )

The rate at which gasoline is flowing into the tank is decreasing at Interpretation 1 point
a rate of 0.005 (or 0.004 ) gallon per second per second at time
t = 140 seconds.
Scoring notes:

• The exact value of g ′(140 ) is

1
500
cos ( )
49
36
−
49
9000
sin
49
36
. ( )
• The value of g ′(140 ) may appear only in the interpretation.
• To be eligible for the second point a response must present some numerical value for g ′(140 ) .
• To earn the second point the interpretation must include “the rate of flow of gasoline is changing
at a rate of [the declared value of g ′(140 ) ]” and “at t = 140 ” (or equivalent).
• An interpretation of “decreasing at a rate of –0.005 ” or “increasing at a rate of 0.005 ” does not
earn the second point.
• Degree mode: In degree mode, g ′(140 ) = 0.001997 or 0.00187.

Total for part (d) 2 points

Total for question 1 9 points

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AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Part A (AB): Graphing calculator required

Question 2 9 points

General Scoring Notes

The model solution is presented using standard mathematical notation.

Answers (numeric or algebraic) need not be simplified. Answers given as a decimal approximation should be
correct to three places after the decimal point. Within each individual free-response question, at most one
point is not earned for inappropriate rounding.

Stephen swims back and forth along a straight path in a 50 -meter-long pool for 90 seconds. Stephen’s
velocity is modeled by v( t ) = 2.38e − 0.02t sin ( 56π t ) , where t is measured in seconds and v(t ) is measured in
meters per second.

Model Solution Scoring

(a) Find all times t in the interval 0 < t < 90 at which Stephen changes direction. Give a reason for your
answer.
For 0 < t < 90, v( t ) = 0 ⇒ t = 56. Considers sign of 1 point
v( t )

Stephen changes direction when his velocity changes sign. This Answer with reason 1 point
occurs at t = 56 seconds.
Scoring notes:
• A response that considers v( t ) = 0 earns the first point.
• A response of “Stephen changes direction when his velocity changes sign” earns the first point for
considering the sign of v( t ) but must include the answer of t = 56 in order to earn the second
point.
• A response of t = 56 with no supporting work does not earn either point.
• Any presented values of t outside the interval 0 < t < 90 will not affect scoring.
Total for part (a) 2 points
(b) Find Stephen’s acceleration at time t = 60 seconds. Show the setup for your calculations, and indicate
units of measure. Is Stephen speeding up or slowing down at time t = 60 seconds? Give a reason for
your answer.
v′( 60 ) = a( 60 ) = −0.0360162 a( 60 ) with setup 1 point

Acceleration units 1 point

Stephen’s acceleration at time t = 60 seconds is −0.036 meter
per second per second.

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

v( 60 ) =
−0.1595124 < 0 Speeding up with 1 point
reason

Stephen is speeding up at time t = 60 seconds because Stephen’s

velocity and acceleration are both negative at that time.
Scoring notes:
• The minimum work needed to earn the first point is v′( 60 ) = −0.036.
o a( 60 ) = −0.0360162 is not sufficient to earn the first point. The connection v′( t ) = a( t ) or
v′( 60 ) = a( 60 ) must be explicitly shown.
• A response must declare a value for a( 60 ) to be eligible for the second point.
• In order to earn the third point the presented conclusion must be consistent with a negative velocity
at time t = 60 and the presented value of a( 60 ) .
• A response does not need to find the value of v( 60 ) ; an implied sign is sufficient.
o The statement “Stephen is speeding up because a( 60 ) and v( 60 ) have the same sign” (or
equivalent) earns the third point, provided a negative value is presented for a( 60 ) .
• A response that reports an incorrect sign or value of v( 60 ) does not earn the third point. Any
presented value of v( 60 ) must be correct for the number of digits presented, from one up to three
decimal places in order to earn the third point.
• Degree mode: A response that presents answers obtained by using a calculator in degree mode does
not earn the first point it would have otherwise earned. The response is eligible for all subsequent
points (unless no answer is possible in degree mode or the question is made simpler by using degree
mode).
o In degree mode, there are two possible values for v′( 60 ) . A response that declares
v′( 60 ) = −0.000141 does not earn the first point but would earn the third point in the presence
of v( 60 ) = 0.042089 or v( 60 ) > 0 and the conclusion that Stephen is slowing down.
o Similarly, a response that declares v′( 60 ) = 0.039304 does not earn the first point but would
earn the third point in the presence of v( 60 ) = 0.042089 or v( 60 ) > 0 and the conclusion that
Stephen is speeding up.
Total for part (b) 3 points
(c) Find the distance between Stephen’s position at time t = 20 seconds and his position at time t = 80
seconds. Show the setup for your calculations.
80 Integral 1 point
∫20 v( t ) dt
= 23.383997 Answer 1 point

The distance between Stephen’s positions at t = 20 seconds and

t = 80 seconds is 23.384 (or 23.383 ) meters.

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Scoring notes:
80
• The first point is earned only for ∫20 v( t ) dt (or the equivalent) with or without the differential.
• The second point is earned only for an answer of 23.384 (or 23.383 ) regardless of whether the first
point was earned.
80
• Degree mode: In degree mode, ∫20 v( t ) dt = 2.407982.
Total for part (c) 2 points
(d) Find the total distance Stephen swims over the time interval 0 ≤ t ≤ 90 seconds. Show the setup for
your calculations.
90 Integral 1 point
∫0 v( t ) dt

= 62.164216 Answer 1 point

The total distance Stephen swims over the time interval

0 ≤ t ≤ 90 seconds is 62.164 meters.
Scoring notes:
90 56 90
• The first point is earned only for ∫0 v( t ) dt or ∫0 v( t ) dt − ∫56 v( t ) dt (or the equivalent), with or

without the differential(s).

• The second point is earned only for an answer of 62.164 regardless of whether the first point was
earned.
90
• Degree mode: In degree mode, ∫0 v( t ) dt = 3.127892.

Total for part (d) 2 points

Total for question 2 9 points

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Part B (AB or BC): Graphing calculator not allowed

Question 3 9 points

General Scoring Notes

The model solution is presented using standard mathematical notation.

Answers (numeric or algebraic) need not be simplified. Answers given as a decimal approximation should be
correct to three places after the decimal point. Within each individual free-response question, at most one
point is not earned for inappropriate rounding.

A bottle of milk is taken out of a refrigerator and placed in a pan of hot water to be warmed. The increasing
function M models the temperature of the milk at time t , where M ( t ) is measured in degrees Celsius ( °C )
and t is the number of minutes since the bottle was placed in the pan. M satisfies the differential equation
dM 1
= ( 40 − M ) . At time t = 0 , the temperature of the milk is 5°C . It can be shown that M ( t ) < 40 for
dt 4
all values of t.

Model Solution Scoring

(a) dM 1
A slope field for the differential equation = ( 40 − M ) is shown. Sketch the solution curve
dt 4
through the point ( 0, 5 ) .

Solution curve 1 point

Scoring notes:
• The solution curve must pass through the point ( 0, 5 ) , extend reasonably close to the left and right
edges of the rectangle, and have no obvious conflicts with the given slope lines.
• Only portions of the solution curve within the given slope field are considered.
• The solution curve must lie entirely below the horizontal line segments at M = 40.
Total for part (a) 1 point
© 2023 College Board
AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

(b) Use the line tangent to the graph of M at t = 0 to approximate M ( 2 ) , the temperature of the milk at
time t = 2 minutes.

dM 1 35 dM 1 point
= ( 40 − 5=
)
dt t =0 4 4 dt t =0

35 Approximation 1 point
The tangent line equation is y =
5+ (t − 0).
4
35
M ( 2) ≈ 5 + ⋅ 2 = 22.5
4
The temperature of the milk at time t = 2 minutes is
approximately 22.5 Celsius.
Scoring notes:
• The value of the slope may appear in a tangent line equation or approximation.
35
• A response of 5 + ⋅ 2 is the minimal response to earn both points.
4
1
• A response of ( 40 − 5 ) earns the first point. If there are any subsequent errors in simplification,
4
the response does not earn the second point.
• In order to earn the second point the response must present an approximation found by using a
tangent line that:
o passes through the point (0, 5) and
35 dM
o has slope or a nonzero slope that is declared to be the value of .
4 dt
• An unsupported approximation does not earn the second point.
• The approximation need not be simplified, but the response does not earn the second point if the
approximation is simplified incorrectly.
Total for part (b) 2 points
(c) d 2M d 2M
Write an expression for in terms of M . Use to determine whether the approximation from
dt 2 dt 2
part (b) is an underestimate or an overestimate for the actual value of M ( 2 ) . Give a reason for your
answer.

d 2M
dt 2
=
−
1 dM
4 dt
=
−
1 1
4 4 (
( 40 − M ) =
1
− ( 40 − M )
16 ) d 2M
dt 2
1 point

d 2M Overestimate with 1 point

Because M ( t ) < 40, < 0, so the graph of M is concave
dt 2 reason
down. Therefore, the tangent line approximation of M ( 2 ) is an
overestimate.

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Scoring notes:

•
d 2M
The first point is earned for either
dt 2
= −
1 1
4 4 (
( 40 − M ) or )
d 2M
dt 2
=
1
− ( 40 − M ) (or
16
equivalent). A response that presents any subsequent simplification error does not earn the
second point.
d 2M dM
• A response that presents an expression for in terms of but fails to continue to an
dt 2 dt
d 2M 1 dM
expression in terms of M (i.e., = − ) does not earn the first point but is eligible for the
dt 2 4 dt
second point.
d 2M
• If the response presents an expression for that is incorrect, the response is eligible for the
dt 2
second point only if the expression is a nonconstant linear function that is negative for 5 < M < 40.
d 2M 1
o Special case: A response that presents = (40 − M ) does not earn the first point but is
dt 2 16
eligible to earn the second point for a consistent answer and reason.
d 2M dM
• To earn the second point a response must include < 0, or is decreasing, or the graph of
dt 2 dt
M is concave down, as well as the conclusion that the approximation is an overestimate.
d 2M
• A response that presents an argument based on or concavity at a single point does not earn
dt 2
the second point.
Total for part (c) 2 points
(d) Use separation of variables to find an expression for M ( t ) , the particular solution to the differential
dM 1
equation = ( 40 − M ) with initial condition M ( 0 ) = 5.
dt 4

dM 1 Separates variables 1 point

= dt
40 − M 4

⌠ dM = ⌠ 1 dt
⌡ 40 − M ⌡ 4
1 Finds antiderivatives 1 point
− ln 40 − M = t + C
4

− ln 40 − 5 =0+C ⇒ C =− ln 35 Constant of 1 point

integration and uses
M ( t ) < 40 ⇒ 40 − M > 0 ⇒ 40 − M = 40 − M initial condition
1
− ln ( 40 − M ) = t − ln 35
4
1
ln ( 40 − M ) =− t + ln 35
4

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

35e −t
40 − M = 4 Solves for M 1 point
4
= 40 − 35e −t
M
Scoring notes:
• A response with no separation of variables earns 0 out of 4 points.
• A response that presents an antiderivative of − ln ( 40 − M ) without absolute value symbols is
eligible for all 4 points.
• A response with no constant of integration can earn at most the first 2 points.
• A response is eligible for the third point only if it has earned the first 2 points.
t
o Special Case: A response that presents + ln ( 40 − M ) = + C (or equivalent) does not earn
4
the second point, is eligible for the third point, but not eligible for the fourth.
• An eligible response earns the third point by correctly including the constant of integration in an
equation and substituting 0 for t and 5 for M .
• A response is eligible for the fourth point only if it has earned the first 3 points.
4
• = 40 − 35e−t
A response earns the fourth point only for an answer of M or equivalent.
Total for part (d) 4 points

Total for question 3 9 points

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Part B (AB or BC): Graphing calculator not allowed

Question 4 9 points

General Scoring Notes

The model solution is presented using standard mathematical notation.

Answers (numeric or algebraic) need not be simplified. Answers given as a decimal approximation should be
correct to three places after the decimal point. Within each individual free-response question, at most one
point is not earned for inappropriate rounding.

The function f is defined on the closed interval [ −2, 8] and satisfies f ( 2 ) = 1. The graph of f ′, the
derivative of f , consists of two line segments and a semicircle, as shown in the figure.

Model Solution Scoring

(a) Does f have a relative minimum, a relative maximum, or neither at x = 6 ? Give a reason for your
answer.
f ′( x ) > 0 on ( 2, 6 ) and f ′( x ) > 0 on ( 6, 8 ) . Answer with reason 1 point

f ′( x ) does not change sign at x = 6, so there is neither a relative

maximum nor a relative minimum at this location.
Scoring notes:
• A response that declares f ′( x ) does not change sign at x = 6, so neither, is sufficient to earn
the point.
• A response does not have to present intervals on which f ′( x ) is positive or negative, but if any are
given, they must be correct. Any presented intervals may include none, one, or both endpoints.
• A response that declares f ′( x ) > 0 before and after x = 6 does not earn the point.

Total for part (a) 1 point

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

(b) On what open intervals, if any, is the graph of f concave down? Give a reason for your answer.

The graph of f is concave down on (−2, 0) and (4, 6) because Intervals 1 point
f ′ is decreasing on these intervals. Reason 1 point
Scoring notes:
• The first point is earned only by an answer of ( −2, 0 ) and ( 4, 6 ) , or these intervals including one or
both endpoints.
• A response must earn the first point to be eligible for second point.
• To earn the second point a response must correctly discuss the behavior of f ′ or the slopes of f ′.
• Special case: A response that presents exactly one of the two correct intervals with a correct reason
earns 1 out of 2 points.
Total for part (b) 2 points
(c) 6 f ( x ) − 3x
Find the value of lim , or show that it does not exist. Justify your answer.
x→2 x2 − 5x + 6
Because f is differentiable at x = 2, f is continuous at x = 2, Limits of numerator 1 point
( x)
so lim f= ( 2 ) 1.
f= and denominator
x→2

lim ( 6 f ( x ) − 3 x ) = 6 ⋅ 1 − 3 ⋅ 2 = 0
x→2

(
lim x 2 − 5 x + 6 =
x→2
0 )
6 f ( x ) − 3x 0 Uses L’Hospital’s 1 point
Because lim is of indeterminate form ,
2
x − 5x + 6
x→2 0 Rule
L’Hospital’s Rule can be applied. Answer 1 point

Using L’Hospital’s Rule,

6 f ( x ) − 3x 6 f ′( x ) − 3 6⋅0 − 3
lim = lim = = 3.
x→2 2
x − 5x + 6 x→2 2x − 5 2⋅2 − 5

Scoring notes:
• The first point is earned by the presentation of two separate limits for the numerator and
denominator.
0
• A response that presents a limit explicitly equal to does not earn the first point.
0
• The second point is earned by applying L’Hospital’s Rule, that is, by presenting at least one correct
derivative in the limit of a ratio of derivatives.
• The third point is earned for the correct answer with supporting work.
Total for part (c) 3 points

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

(d) Find the absolute minimum value of f on the closed interval [ −2, 8]. Justify your answer.

f ′( x ) =0 ⇒ x=−1, x = 2, x = 6 Considers f ′( x ) = 0 1 point

The function f is continuous on [ −2, 8] , so the candidates for the Justification 1 point
location of an absolute minimum for f are x = − 2, x = −1, Answer 1 point
x = 2, x = 6, and x = 8.

x f ( x)
−2 3
−1 4
2 1
6 7−π
8 11 − 2π

The absolute minimum value of f is f ( 2 ) = 1.

Scoring notes:
• To earn the first point a response must state f ′ = 0 or equivalent. Listing the zeros of f ′ is not
sufficient.
• A response that presents any error in evaluating f at any critical point or endpoint will not earn the
justification point.
• A response need not present the value of f ( −1) provided x = −1 is eliminated because it is the
location of a local maximum. A response need not present the value of f ( 6 ) provided x = 6 is
eliminated by reference to part (a) or eliminated through analysis.
• A response need not present the value of f ( 8 ) provided there is a presentation that argues
f ′( x ) ≥ 0 for x > 2 and, therefore, f ( 8 ) > f ( 2 ) .
• A response that does not consider both endpoints does not earn the justification point.
• The answer point is earned only for indicating that the minimum value is 1. It is not earned for
noting that the minimum occurs at x = 2.
Total for part (d) 3 points

Total for question 4 9 points

© 2023 College Board

AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Part B (AB): Graphing calculator not allowed

Question 5 9 points

General Scoring Notes

The model solution is presented using standard mathematical notation.

Answers (numeric or algebraic) need not be simplified. Answers given as a decimal approximation should be
correct to three places after the decimal point. Within each individual free-response question, at most one
point is not earned for inappropriate rounding.

x 0 2 4 7
f ( x) 10 7 4 5
3
f ′( x ) −8 3 6
2
g( x) 1 2 −3 0
g ′( x ) 5 4 2 8

The functions f and g are twice differentiable. The table shown gives values of the functions and their first
derivatives at selected values of x.

Model Solution Scoring

(a) Let h be the function defined by h( x ) = f ( g ( x ) ) . Find h′( 7 ) . Show the work that leads to your answer.

h′( x ) = f ′( g ( x ) ) ⋅ g ′( x ) Chain rule 1 point

h′( 7 ) = f ′( g ( 7 ) ) ⋅ g ′( 7 )

3 Answer 1 point
= f ′( 0 ) ⋅ =
8 8 12
⋅=
2
Scoring notes:
• The first point is earned for either h′( x ) = f ′( g ( x ) ) ⋅ g ′( x ) or h′( 7 ) = f ′( g ( 7 ) ) ⋅ g ′( 7 ) .
• If the first point is earned, the second point is earned only for an answer of 12 (or equivalent).
• If the first point is not earned, the second point can be earned only for a response of either
3
f ′( 0 ) ⋅ 8 =12 or ⋅ 8.
2
• A response of 12 with no supporting work does not earn either point.
Total for part (a) 2 points
(b) k ′( x ) ( f ( x ) )2 ⋅ g ( x ) . Is the graph of k concave up or
Let k be a differentiable function such that=
concave down at the point where x = 4 ? Give a reason for your answer.

k ′′( x ) = 2 f ( x ) ⋅ f ′( x ) ⋅ g ( x ) + ( f ( x ) )2 ⋅ g ′( x ) Product or chain rule 1 point

© 2023 College Board

 AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

=k ′′( 4 ) 2 f ( 4 ) ⋅ f ′ ( 4 ) ⋅ g ( 4 ) + ( f ( 4 ) )2 ⋅ g ′( 4 )

=2 ⋅ 4 ⋅ 3 ⋅ ( −3) + 42 ⋅ 2 =−72 + 32 =− 40 k ′′( 4 ) 1 point

The graph of k is concave down at the point where x = 4 Answer with reason 1 point
because k ′′( 4 ) < 0 and k ′′ is continuous.
Scoring notes:
• The first point is earned for either k ′′( x ) = 2 f ( x ) ⋅ f ′( x ) ⋅ g ( x ) + ( f ( x ) )2 ⋅ g ′( x ) or
k ′′( 4 ) = 2 f ( 4 ) ⋅ f ′( 4 ) ⋅ g ( 4 ) + ( f ( 4 ) )2 ⋅ g ′( 4 ) .
• The first point is also earned by any of the following incorrect expressions, each of which has a
single error in the application of the product rule or the chain rule:
o 2 f ( x ) ⋅ g ( x ) + ( f ( x ) )2 ⋅ g ′( x ) or 2 f ( 4 ) ⋅ g ( 4 ) + ( f ( 4 ) )2 ⋅ g ′( 4 )

o 2 f ′( x ) ⋅ g ( x ) + ( f ( x ) )2 ⋅ g ′( x ) or 2 f ′( 4 ) ⋅ g ( 4 ) + ( f ( 4 ) )2 ⋅ g ′( 4 )

o f ′( x ) ⋅ g ( x ) + ( f ( x ) )2 ⋅ g ′( x ) or f ′( 4 ) ⋅ g ( 4 ) + ( f ( 4 ) )2 ⋅ g ′( 4 )
o 2 f ( x ) ⋅ f ′( x ) ⋅ g ′( x ) or 2 f ( 4 ) ⋅ f ′( 4 ) ⋅ g ′( 4 )
o Note: A response that presents one of these expressions cannot earn the second point.
• To earn the second point a response must correctly find k ′′( 4 ) = − 40 (or equivalent) with supporting
work.
• The third point is earned for an answer and reason that are consistent with any declared nonzero
value of k ′′( 4 ) .

Total for part (b) 3 points

(c) x
x ) 5 x3 +
Let m be the function defined by m(= ∫0 f ′( t ) dt. Find m( 2 ) . Show the work that leads to

your answer.
2 Answer with 1 point
5 ⋅ 8 + ∫ f ′( t ) dt =
m( 2 ) = 40 + ( f ( 2 ) − f ( 0 ) )
0 supporting work
= 40 + ( 7 − 10 ) = 37

Scoring notes:
• The point is earned only for an answer of 37 (or equivalent) with supporting work equivalent to
5 ⋅ 8 + ( f ( 2 ) − f ( 0 ) ) , 40 + ( f ( 2 ) − f ( 0 ) ) , 5 ⋅ 8 + ( 7 − 10 ) , or 40 + ( 7 − 10 ) .
• An answer of 37 with no supporting work does not earn the point.
Total for part (c) 1 point
(d) Is the function m defined in part (c) increasing, decreasing, or neither at x = 2 ? Justify your answer.

′( x ) 15 x 2 + f ′( x )
m= Considers m′( x ) 1 point

m′( 2 ) =15 ⋅ 4 + f ′( 2 ) = 60 + ( −8 ) =52 m′( 2 ) with 1 point

supporting work

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AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

The graph of m is increasing at x = 2 because m′( 2 ) > 0. Answer with 1 point

justification
Scoring notes:
• The first point is earned for considering m′( x ) , m′( 2 ) , or m′. This consideration may appear in a
justification statement.
• The second point is earned for m′( 2 ) = 15 ⋅ 22 + f ′( 2 ) , m′( 2=
) 60 + f ′( 2 ) , or m′( 2 ) = 60 − 8 but
is not earned for an unsupported response of m′( 2 ) =
52.
• The third point is earned for an answer and justification consistent with any declared value of m′( 2 ) .

Total for part (d) 3 points

Total for question 5 9 points

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AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Part B (AB): Graphing calculator not allowed

Question 6 9 points

General Scoring Notes

The model solution is presented using standard mathematical notation.

Answers (numeric or algebraic) need not be simplified. Answers given as a decimal approximation should be
correct to three places after the decimal point. Within each individual free-response question, at most one
point is not earned for inappropriate rounding.

Consider the curve given by the equation 6 xy= 2 + y 3 .

Model Solution Scoring

(a) dy 2y
Show that = 2 .
dx y − 2x

d d dy dy Implicit 1 point
dx
(=
6 xy )
dx
( )
2 + y3 ⇒ 6 y + 6 x
dx
3y2
=
dx differentiation

dy 2 dy 2y Verification 1 point
⇒ 2=
y (
dx
)
y − 2x ⇒ =
dx 2
y − 2x

Scoring notes:
• The first point is earned only for the correct implicit differentiation of 6 xy= 2 + y 3 . Responses
dy
may use alternative notations for , such as y ′.
dx
• The second point cannot be earned without the first point.
dy 2
• It is sufficient to present
= 2y
dx
( )
y − 2 x to earn the second point, provided there are no

subsequent errors.
Total for part (a) 2 points
(b) Find the coordinates of a point on the curve at which the line tangent to the curve is horizontal, or
explain why no such point exists.
For the line tangent to the curve to be horizontal, it is necessary Sets 2 y = 0 1 point
2
that 2 y = 0 (so y = 0 ) and that y − 2 x ≠ 0.

Substituting y = 0 into 6 xy= 2 + y 3 yields the equation Answer with reason 1 point
6x ⋅ 0 =2, which has no solution.

Therefore, there is no point on the curve at which the line tangent

to the curve is horizontal.

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AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

Scoring notes:
dy 2y
• The first point is earned with any of 2 y = 0, y = 0, = 0, dy = 0, y′ =0, or 2 = 0.
dx y − 2x

• A response need not state that at a horizontal tangent, y 2 − 2 x ≠ 0.

Total for part (b) 2 points

(c) Find the coordinates of a point on the curve at which the line tangent to the curve is vertical, or
explain why no such point exists.
For a line tangent to this curve to be vertical, it is necessary that Sets y 2 − 2 x =
0 1 point
y2
2 y ≠ 0 and that y 2 − 2 x =
0 (so x = ).
2

y2 y2 1 point
Substituting x = into 6 xy= 2 + y 3 yields the equation Substitutes x =
2 2
3 y 2 ⋅ y = 2 + y 3 ⇒ 2 y 3 = 2 ⇒ y =1. into 6 xy= 2 + y 3

1 Answer 1 point
Substituting y = 1 in 6 xy= 2 + y 3 yields 6 x= 2 + 1, or x = .
2

The tangent line to the curve is vertical at the point ( 12 , 1).

Scoring notes:
• The first point can be earned by presenting y 2 = 2 x or y = 2 x .

• The second point can be earned for the substitution of y = 2 x into 6 xy= 2 + y 3 , or for
2 + y3
substituting x = into y 2 − 2 x = 0.
6y

• A response earns all three points by setting y 2 − 2 x =

0, declaring the point ( 12 , 1) , and
verifying that this point is on the curve 6 xy= 2 + y 3 .

• A response that identifies the point ( 12 , 1) but does not verify that the point is on the curve, does
not earn the second or the third point.

• To earn the third point the response must present both coordinates of the point ( 12 , 1). The
coordinates need not appear as an ordered pair as long as they are labeled.
Total for part (c) 3 points
(d)
A particle is moving along the curve. At the instant when the particle is at the point ( 12 , −2) , its
dx 2 dy
horizontal position is increasing at a rate of = unit per second. What is the value of , the
dt 3 dt
rate of change of the particle’s vertical position, at that instant?

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AP® Calculus AB/BC 2023 Scoring Guidelines

dx dy dy Uses implicit 1 point

6y + 6x 0 + 3y2
=
dt dt dt differentiation with
respect to t

At the point ( x, =
y) ( 12 , − 2) , Answer 1 point

6 ( −2 ) ( 23 ) + 6 ( 12 ) dydt =−
3( 2) 2 dy
dt
dy dy
⇒ −8 + 3 =12
dt dt
dy 8
⇒ − unit per second
=
dt 9
Scoring notes:
dx dy dy
• The first point is earned by presenting one or more of the terms 6 y , 6 x , or 3 y 2 .
dt dt dt
• Units will not affect scoring in this part.
8
• An unsupported response of − earns no points.
9
• Alternate solution:
dy dy dx
= ⋅
dt dx dt
dy 2 ( −2 ) 4
= = −
dx ( x=
, y ) (1 2, − 2 )
2
( −2 ) − 2 (1 2 ) 3

dy dy dx 4 2 8
= ⋅ = − ⋅ = − unit per second
dt ( x, y ) =
(1 2, − 2 ) dx d t ( x, y ) =
(1 2, − 2 ) 3 3 9

dy dy dx
o The first point is earned for the statement = ⋅ or equivalent.
dt dx dt
4 2 2 ( −2 ) 2
o A numerical expression, such as − ⋅ or ⋅ , earns both points.
3 3 2
( −2 ) − 2
1
2 () 3

Total for part (d) 2 points

Total for question 6 9 points

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