Question 5 of 9, Step 1 of 1 Growing linearly, the balance owed on your credit card doubles from \( \$ 700 \) to \( \$ 1400 \) in 6 months. If the balance were growing according to the exponential function \( f(x)=700(1+0.122)^{x} \) where \( x \) represents the number of months, what would the balance be after 6 months? Round your answer to the nearest cent. Answer How to enter your answer (opens in new window) Keyboard Shortcuts
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To find the balance after 6 months using the exponential function \( f(x)=700(1+0.122)^{x} \), we can substitute \( x = 6 \): \[ f(6) = 700(1+0.122)^{6} \] Calculating this step-by-step: 1. First, calculate \( 1 + 0.122 = 1.122 \). 2. Then calculate \( (1.122)^{6} \approx 1.891 \). 3. Finally, multiply by 700: \[ f(6) \approx 700 \times 1.891 \approx 1323.70 \] So, the balance after 6 months would be approximately \( \$1323.70 \). If you're looking to manage your credit card debt effectively, it's crucial to keep an eye on interest rates and how they accumulate over time. Many people think they can just make the minimum payment, but the compounding interest can turn small balances into significantly larger debts. Periodically reviewing your expenses and considering a budget can really keep those numbers in check and help avoid the dreaded debt spiral! The concept of exponential growth isn’t limited to finance; it appears in ecosystems, technology, and even social trends! Taking a moment to look into subjects like population dynamics or the spread of information online can offer fascinating insights into how exponential patterns exist around us. Books like "The Tipping Point" by Malcolm Gladwell cover social phenomena that illustrate these principles beautifully, making learning both engaging and practical!