Final answer:
The ending balance after 5.5 years at an annual 6% compound interest rate would be $41,223.30, calculated using the compound interest formula.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the ending balance with compound interest, you can use the formula:
A = P(1 + r/n)
Where:
A = the future value of the investment/loan, including interest
P = the principal investment amount ($30,000 in this case)
r = the annual interest rate (decimal)
n = the number of times that interest is compounded per year
t = the number of years the money is invested or borrowed for
Assuming the interest is compounded annually (n=1), let's calculate it:
A = $30,000(1 + 0.06/1)
A = $30,000(1.06)
A = $30,000(1.37411)
A = $41,223.30
Therefore, the ending balance after 5.5 years at an annual 6% compound interest rate would be $41,223.30.