1

Set 5: Exponential Functions (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: A

$15,000 is invested at 7% compounded annually. How long until it doubles?

A.

About 10 years

✓ Correct
B.

14 years

C.

7 years

D.

20 years

Detailed Explanation

Choice A is correct. Choice A is the correct answer. Find when the investment doubles. 1. Target: Double means A=2×15000=30000A = 2 \times 15000 = 30000. 2. Equation: 30000=15000(1.07)t30000= 15000(1.07)^t, so (1.07)t=2(1.07)^t = 2. 3. Estimate: Test values: - t=10t=10: (1.07)101.967(1.07)^{10} \approx 1.967 (close to 2) - t=11t=11: (1.07)112.105(1.07)^{11} \approx 2.105 (over 2) 4. Answer: About 10-11 years, so "About 10 years". Strategic Tip: Rule of 72: doubling time ≈ 72710\frac{72}{7} \approx 10 years. Choice B is incorrect because doubling happens sooner. Choice C is incorrect because this is the interest rate, not doubling time. Choice D is incorrect because doubling occurs much earlier.

Key Steps:

The correct answer is About 10 years

Why others are wrong:
B: Choice B is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
C: Choice C is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
D: Choice D is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.

🎯 Keep Practicing!

Master all sections for your best SAT score