To calculate the future value of Mr. Bert's investment, we can use the formula for compound interest:
\[ FV = P(1 + r)^t \]
Where:
- \( FV \) = future value of the investment
- \( P \) = principal amount (initial investment)
- \( r \) = annual interest rate (in decimal)
- \( t \) = number of years the money is invested
For Mr. Bert's investment:
- \( P = 5000 \)
- \( r = 3.75% = 0.0375 \)
- \( t = 15 \)
Now, we can plug in the values:
\[ FV = 5000(1 + 0.0375)^{15} \]
Calculating it step-by-step:
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Calculate \( (1 + 0.0375)^{15} \): \[ (1 + 0.0375)^{15} \approx 1.7137 \]
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Multiply by the principal: \[ FV \approx 5000 \times 1.7137 \approx 8568.50 \]
So, after 15 years, Mr. Bert's investment will be worth approximately $8,568.50.