Compound Interest Formula and Natural Logarithms

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the compound interest formula, A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt), for the variable t using natural logarithms. The correct manipulation involves taking the natural logarithm of both sides, leading to the equation ln(A/P) = nt * ln(1 + r/n). The final solution for t is t = ln(A/P) / (n * ln(1 + r/n)), correcting an earlier algebraic mistake where the division was incorrectly applied. This highlights the importance of careful algebraic manipulation in solving logarithmic equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the compound interest formula A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt)
  • Knowledge of natural logarithms and their properties
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
  • Familiarity with isolating variables in equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of natural logarithms in depth
  • Practice solving exponential equations using logarithms
  • Explore the applications of the compound interest formula in finance
  • Learn about different methods for solving algebraic equations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying finance or mathematics, educators teaching algebra and logarithmic functions, and anyone interested in understanding compound interest calculations.

adillhoff
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Homework Statement


Solve the compound interest formula for t by using natural logarithms.


Homework Equations


A=P(1+\frac{r}{n})^{nt}


The Attempt at a Solution


I start by dividing both sides by P.
I then take the natural log of both sides and end up with

ln(\frac{A}{P})=nt * ln(1+\frac{r}{n})

I isolate t to one side by first dividing by ln(\frac{A}{P}) then by t.

I end up with t=\frac{n*ln(1+\frac{r}{n})}{ln(\frac{A}{P})}

I don't believe this is the correct answer. I can't seem to see which step I overlooked at the moment. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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You made a simple algebraic mistake in the step where you solve for t. You need to divide by n*ln(1+r/n).
 
Of course. I knew I missed something simple. Thanks for the reply.
 

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