Final answer:
To find the expected total value of a $3,000 investment at an average annual return of 7% after ten years, use the compound interest formula $3,000(1.07)^10.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you invest $3,000 and expect to earn an average of 7% on your initial investment each year, the value of the investment after ten years can be calculated using the compound interest formula:
The formula for compound interest is P(1 + r)^n, where P is the principal amount ($3,000), r is the annual interest rate (7% or 0.07), and n is the number of years (10).
Plugging in the numbers:
$3,000(1 + 0.07)^10
You would calculate it as:
$3,000(1.07)^10
This would give you the total value of the investment after 10 years.