To calculate the future value of a series of annual investments (an annuity), we can use the formula for the future value of an annuity:
\[ FV = P \times \frac{(1 + r)^n - 1}{r} \]
Where:
- \( FV \) = future value of the annuity
- \( P \) = payment amount per period
- \( r \) = annual interest rate (as a decimal)
- \( n \) = number of periods (years)
In this case:
- \( P = 5000 \)
- \( r = 0.07 \) (7% as a decimal)
- \( n = 10 \)
Plugging in these values:
\[ FV = 5000 \times \frac{(1 + 0.07)^{10} - 1}{0.07} \]
Calculating \( (1 + 0.07)^{10} \):
\[ (1 + 0.07)^{10} = 1.967151 \]
Now subtract 1:
\[ 1.967151 - 1 = 0.967151 \]
Now, divide by the interest rate:
\[ \frac{0.967151}{0.07} = 13.3878728571 \]
Now multiply by \( P \):
\[ FV = 5000 \times 13.3878728571 \approx 66939.36428571 \]
Finally, rounding to the nearest cent:
\[ FV \approx 66939.36 \]
Thus, at the end of 10 years, the woman will have approximately $66,939.36.