Questions on Word Problems: Money, Business and Interest answered by real tutors!

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Question 154536: How long would it take for $100 to become $1000 if it is invested at an 8% annual interest rate that is compounded quarterly?: How long would it take for $100 to become $1000 if it is invested at an 8% annual interest rate that is compounded quarterly?
Answer by AnlytcPhil(958) About Me  (Show Source):
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How long would it take for $100 to become $1000 if it is invested at an 8% annual interest rate that is compounded quarterly?


A = P(1+r/n)^(nt)

where P = beginning amount = 100
      A = final amount = 1000 
      r = rate expressed as a decimal = .08
      n = 4 (quarterly means compounded 4 times a year)
      t = ? (number of years, the unknown)

1000 = 100(1+.08/4)^(4t)

1000 = 100(1+.02)^(4t)

1000 = 100(1.02)^(4t)

Divide both sides by 100

10 = (1.02)^(4t)

Take logs of both sides:

log(10) = log(1.02^(4t))  

Use the rule of logs:  log(A^C)=C*log(A)

log(10) = 4t*log(1.02)

Divide both sides by (4*log(1.02))

log(10)/(4log(1.02)) = t

29.06918686 years.

Edwin