Andrew invested $5000 in an account that earns 3.8% interest, compounded annually. The formula for compound interest is

`A(t)=P(1+i)^{t}`

How much did Matthew have in the account after 3 years?

1 answer

To calculate how much Matthew has in his account after 3 years with the given compound interest formula, we need to identify the variables in the formula:

  • \( P \) = principal amount (initial investment) = $5000
  • \( i \) = interest rate (as a decimal) = 3.8% = 0.038
  • \( t \) = number of years = 3

The formula for compound interest is:

\[ A(t) = P(1 + i)^{t} \]

Now we can substitute the values into the formula:

\[ A(3) = 5000(1 + 0.038)^{3} \]

First, calculate \( 1 + 0.038 \):

\[ 1 + 0.038 = 1.038 \]

Now raise that to the power of 3:

\[ (1.038)^{3} \approx 1.117 \]

Next, multiply that by the principal amount:

\[ A(3) = 5000 \times 1.117 \approx 5585 \]

Therefore, after 3 years, Matthew will have approximately:

\[ \boxed{5585} \]