Final answer:
The original cost of the equipment is approximately $314,741.97.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the original cost of the equipment, we can use the formula for the present value of an ordinary annuity. The formula is:
Present Value = Payment Amount x (1 - (1 + Interest Rate)^-Number of Payments) / Interest Rate
Plugging in the values from the question, we have:
Present Value = $36,074 x (1 - (1 + 0.06)^-12) / 0.06
Simplifying the equation gives us the original cost of the equipment:
Present Value = $314,741.97
Therefore, the original cost of the equipment is approximately $314,741.97.