Final Answer:
a. The interest rate earned is approximately 10%.
b. The interest rate earned is approximately 10%.
c. The interest rate earned is approximately 5%.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of financial transactions, the interest rate serves as a critical metric to assess the cost or return on borrowed or invested funds. For short-term loans, such as those in scenarios (a) and (b), the interest rate is derived by calculating the percentage increase from the initial borrowed amount to the total repayment at the end of the term. This straightforward approach involves dividing the difference between the future value and the present value by the present value and then multiplying by 100. In both cases, this yields an approximate interest rate of 10%.
For longer-term loans, like scenario (c) spanning 12 years, the interest rate is determined using a compound interest formula [(Future Value / Present Value)^(1/n) - 1], where 'n' represents the number of years. This formula reflects the compounding effect over an extended period. In this instance, the interest rate is approximately 5%, indicating a lower annualized return compared to the short-term loans.
Understanding these calculations is paramount for making informed financial decisions. It enables individuals to gauge the true cost of borrowing or assess the return on investment, crucial considerations in managing personal or business finances effectively.