Jeff invested $3000 in an account that earns 6.5% interest, compounded

annually. The formula for compound interest is A(t) = P(1 + I)^ t
How much did Jeff have in the account after 3 years?
• A. $9585.00
• B. $13,476.38
• C. $3623.85
D. $3390.00

1 answer

To find out how much Jeff has in the account after 3 years with an initial investment of $3000, an interest rate of 6.5% (0.065), and compounded annually, we can use the formula for compound interest:

\[ A(t) = P(1 + I)^t \]

Where:

  • \( A(t) \) is the amount after time \( t \),
  • \( P \) is the principal amount (initial investment),
  • \( I \) is the interest rate (in decimal form),
  • \( t \) is the time in years.

Substituting in the values:

  • \( P = 3000 \)
  • \( I = 0.065 \)
  • \( t = 3 \)

Now we can calculate:

\[ A(3) = 3000(1 + 0.065)^3 \]

\[ A(3) = 3000(1.065)^3 \]

Calculating \( (1.065)^3 \):

\[ (1.065)^3 \approx 1.207135 \]

Now substitute this back into the equation:

\[ A(3) = 3000 \times 1.207135 \approx 3621.41 \]

So, rounding to two decimal places, Jeff has approximately $3621.41 in the account after 3 years.

Among the options given, the closest answer is:

C. $3623.85