Final answer:
The model for the accumulated amount A after t years with an initial deposit of $500 at 4.25% interest rate compounded continuously is A = $500e^{0.0425t}.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves finding a function that models the accumulated amount A, after t years when $500 is deposited at a 4.25% interest rate compounded continuously. To model this, we use the formula for continuous compounding:
A = Pe^(rt)
Where:
- P is the principal amount (the initial amount of money)
- r is the annual interest rate (in decimal form)
- e is the base of the natural logarithm (approximately 2.71828)
- t is the time in years
For Elaine's situation:
- P = $500
- r = 4.25% or 0.0425 in decimal form
- t = number of years
So the function modeling her account balance after t years is:
A = $500e0.0425t
This equation will calculate the future value received after t years when the initial deposit is compounded continuously at an interest rate of 4.25%.