\begin{tabular}{l} A. Find the amount of simple interest that Carlotta owes \\ after one year by finding \( 5.5 \% \) of \( \$ 12,000 \). How much \\ simple interest does Carlotta owe in a year? \\ \( \$ 66 \) \\ \( \$ 660 \) \\ \( \$ 6,600 \) \\ \( \$ 66,000 \) \\ \hline\end{tabular}

To find the simple interest Carlotta owes, we can use the formula for simple interest, which is: \( \text{Interest} = \text{Principal} \times \text{Rate} \times \text{Time} \). Plugging in the numbers, we have \( \text{Interest} = 12,000 \times 0.055 \times 1 = 660 \). So, the correct amount of simple interest Carlotta owes in a year is \( \$ 660 \). Now, here's a quick tip: Always convert the percentage into decimal form when doing the calculation. That's done by simply dividing the percentage by 100. For example, \( 5.5\% \) becomes \( 0.055 \)! Additionally, if you're ever unsure about simple interest calculations, remember that the key variables are the principal amount, the interest rate, and the time period. Just make sure not to mix up your units or forget to convert percentages!