SOLUTION: In 1944 a stamp for first-class postage cost 3 cents. By the end of 2001, the cost of first-class postage will increase 35 cents. Assuming that the average annual rate of inflation

Question 81618: In 1944 a stamp for first-class postage cost 3 cents. By the end of 2001, the cost of first-class postage will increase 35 cents. Assuming that the average annual rate of inflation was 5% for the period, is 35 cents a reasonable price in 2001? If not, what should the price be?
Could anyone please explain this to me? Thanks.
Answer by stanbon(75887) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
In 1944 a stamp for first-class postage cost 3 cents. By the end of 2001, the cost of first-class postage will increase 35 cents. Assuming that the average annual rate of inflation was 5% for the period, is 35 cents a reasonable price in 2001? If not, what should the price be?
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A(t) = A(o)(1.05)^t
'44 to '01 is 57 years
A(t) = 0.03(1.05)^57
A(t) = 0.03*16.14 = 0.48 or 48 cents
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At an annual inflation rate of 5% per year for 57 years
a 3 cent stamp in 1944 would cost 48 cents in 2001.
So, it look like 35 cents is a bargain.
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Cheers,
Stan H.
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